Canton, Massachusetts · Saved source text
Canton Town Meeting — 2017 ATM
Saved text from 106 source pages. Transcription and OCR may contain errors; verify figures and wording against the original. Retrieved 2026-10-16.
Source page 41
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
Replace Skid Steer Loader Truck #62 ($95,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
The current 12-year old skid steer tractor, used forhandling material inthe yard and for post storm snow
removal, is5years past itsend-of-life expectancy and itisnolonger cost effective tocontinue torepair.
Thecurrent machine hasalow-flow hydraulic system, which limits itsability toaccept tool attachments
such asastreet broom, mower and snow blower. The recommended replacement isahigh flow machine
along with acold planer that mills asphalt forroad patching and driveway apron repairs.
Traffic Control Signs ($12,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
Studies bythe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has found that Rectangular Rapid Flash
Beacons (RRFB) can enhance safety byreducing crashes between vehicles and pedestrians atun-
signalized intersections and mid-block pedestrian crossings byincreasing driver awareness ofpotential
pedestrian conflicts. RRFBs are alower cost alternative totraffic signals and are shown toincrease driver
yielding behavior atcrosswalks significantly when supplementing standard pedestrian crossing warning
signs and markings. Solar School Zone Blinker perform the same function ofincreasing safety for students
walking toschools.
This request proposes to install anRRFB onWashington Street atHagen Court and aSolar School Zone
Blinker for theGalvin/Hansen complex on Pequnit Street.
Replace Equipment Trailer ($10,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
The 17-year old trailer, which is6years past itsend-of-life expectancy, isused tohaul slow moving
equipment and materials, such ascurb and catch basin blocks, tothe job site. The wood decking isworn
and needs replacing while thesteel frame isshowing corrosion. Itisnot cost-effective torepair the trailer
and therequest isto replace itwith anew orcurrent year model.
Cemetery Security System ($12,000
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
Currently, there isnosecurity ormonitoring system installed attheCemetery office ormaintenance
garage, which isneeded tohelp deter vandalism atthesite. The 5-camera system requested for the
Cemetery issimilar tothe one approved atATM 15 forthe Pasquarosa Public Works Campus onBolivar
Street.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 4
MOVED: That One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000) be appropriated to be spent by
the School Committee for the purpose of HVAC services district wide and to meet said
appropriation One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000) be transferred from Free Cash
Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury ofthe Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
MOTION 4
DISCUSSION: This capital request will permit the ongoing routine heating, ventilation, and air
conditioning ( HVAC) system toundergo routine maintenance ateach ofthe sixbuildings operated bythe
Canton Public Schools. This proactive and preventative maintenance willprotect airquality inthe
buildings, improve energy efficiency, and will extend the life expectancy ofthe HVAC systems. The
Capital Planning Committee recommended thisrequest by avote of5-0-1.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
41 –Source page 42
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
MOTION 5
MOVED: That One Million One Hundred Fifty Three Thousand Dollars ($1,153,000) be
appropriated to be spent by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer)
with the approval of the Department of Public Works Superintendent or Fire Chief as may be
applicable, and the Board of Selectmen to pay costs of various capital projects and equipment
as set forth below and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the
Board of Selectmen, be authorized to borrow, pursuant to any applicable statute or any other
enabling authority as may be, the sum of One Hundred Fifty Three Thousand Dollars
1,153,000) and furthermore, any premium received by the Town upon the sale of any bonds
ornotes approved by this vote, less any such premium applied tothe payment ofthe costs of
issuance of such bonds or notes, may be applied tothe payment of costs approved by this vote
in accordance with Chapter 44, Section 20 of the General Laws, thereby reducing the amount
authorized to be borrowed to pay such costs by alike amount.
FINCOM
RECOMMENDATIONS AMOUNT
Fire Engine E-1 Replacement $ 745,000
Replace Self Contained Breathing Apparatus 181,000
DPW – Purchase Street Sweeper 227,000
TOTAL $1,
153,000
The sums listed above are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount to be
appropriated is one line item in the total amount of One Million One Hundred Fifty Three
Thousand Dollars ($1,153,000). The Finance Director and the Town Administrator, acting
jointly, are hereby authorized to distribute such funds in such manner as may be needed to
accomplish the foregoing list of projects; provided, however, that each project contained in the
list set forth above isundertaken and that any excess funds are available because one or more
of the listed projects cost less than was estimated and not because a project intended to be
undertaken isnot soundertaken.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
MOTION 5
DISCUSSION:
Fire Department
Fire Engine E-1Replacement ($ 745,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
Fire Engine 1,which dates from 1993, isbeyond itsservice life with itsDetroit Diesel engine no longer
made and the vehicle must besent toMaine forengine servicing. Ifthis fire engine ispurchased, the town
will have two new front line fire engines and two good reserve fire engines allowing the fire department a
margin ofdepth that has been filled inthe past with theborrowing ofequipment from neighboring towns.
Incontinuing with procedures adopted bythedepartment, the new engine will besent toavendor in
North Attleboro forlarger repairs with routine maintenance done inthe department by trained mechanics.
Replace Self Contained Breathing Apparatus ($ 181,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
The Departments Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) airpacks are atthe end oftheir service life
and they will belegally required tobereplaced, including the bottles. One-half ofthese apparatuses will
bereplaced inFY 2018 and one-halfwill bereplaced inFY 2019. This project ishigh priority toensure the
safety offirefighters and itiscurrently ahigh priority forreceiving astate grant, which ispending.
Department of Public Works
Purchase Street Sweeper ($ 227,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
Studies bythe Environmental Protection Agency has determined that runoff from street surfaces isa
major contributor of pollution tolocal waterways, wells and aquifers resulting in contamination, such as
fine metal particles and/ortrash. New Clean Water Regulations required bythe EPA require that local
42 –Source page 43
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
municipalities reduce runoff pollutants. Research has determined that one effective way to remove fine
metal particles and trash isbystreet sweeping.
Currently Canton streets are swept 2-3times per year. Asecond sweeper would allow the Public Works
department toimprove this service inresponse tothe increased demands to control runoff pollution into
catch basins and storm drains.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 6
MOVED: That Forty Thousand Nine Hundred Fifty Five Dollars and Eighty Cents
40,955.80) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief
Procurement Officer) with the approval ofthe Town Clerk and the Board of Selectmen for the
purpose of purchasing electronic vote tabulators and to meet said appropriation that Thirteen
Thousand Six Hundred Forty Eight Dollars and Eighty Four Cents ($13,648.84) be transferred
from the appropriation voted pursuant to Article 15 Motion 2of the 2000 Annual Town Meeting
for the purpose of filing and shelving systems for the vaults and that Twenty Four Thousand
Three Hundred Six Dollars and Ninety Six Cents ($24,306.96) be transferred from the
appropriations voted pursuant toArticle 26 ofthe 2000 Annual Town Meeting for the purpose
of engaging a records retention specialist and Three Thousand Dollars ($3,000) be raised and
appropriated from the FY 2018 tax levy and other general revenues of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
MOTION 6
DISCUSSION:
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
The current electronic vote tabulators that the town uses forelections are outdated andmust bereplaced.
They are nolonger serviced and this may cause delays during future elections. The new tabulators would
bemore user friendly and thus would require less delay ifvoters orpollworkers encounter problems with
the ballots and/ortabulators. The Town Clerk iscurrently looking attwodifferent models and will chose
the final model through the evaluation and procurement process.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 7
MOVED: That Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000) be appropriated to be spent by the
Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Parks &
Recreation Department and the Board of Selectmen for the purpose of installing playground
security systems and to meet said appropriation that Seven Thousand Dollars ($7,000) be
transferred from the appropriation voted pursuant to Article 13 Motion 2 of the 2011 Annual
Town Meeting for the purpose of Kennedy School basketball court repair and Three Thousand
Dollars ($3,000) be raised and appropriated from the FY 2018 tax levy and other general
revenues of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-1
MOTION 7
DISCUSSION: The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
Inthe interest ofsafety and protecting our significant investments into the new playground equipment at
Tilden Field and Devoll Playgrounds, itisprudent that we install cameras todeter vandalism and/orto
assist inthe identification ofperpetrators. Unfortunately, the incidence ofvehicles onfields and damage to
playground equipment has become amore common occurrence. Asecurity system will provide theTown
with agreater chance torecoup the cost ofrepairs from the responsible parties.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
43 –Source page 44
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
MOTION 8
MOVED: That Six Hundred Fifty Five Thousand Dollars ($655,000) be appropriated to be
spent bythe Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval
of the Department of Public Works Superintendent and the Board of Selectmen for the
purposes of various water capital projects as set forth below and to meet said appropriation
Six Hundred Fifty Five Thousand Dollars ($655,000) be transferred from the water enterprise
surplus (retained earnings).
FINCOM
RECOMMENDATIONS AMOUNT
Satellite Well at Well 9 $ 360,000
Integrated Water Resources Management Plan 188,000
Security System for Water Treatment Facility 39,000
Replace Dump Body on Truck #20 58,000
Install Tool Box on Truck # 9 10,000
TOTAL $ 655,000
The sums shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount to be
appropriated isone line item in the total amount of Six Hundred Fifty Five Thousand Dollars
655,000). The Finance Director and the Town Administrator, acting jointly, are hereby
authorized to distribute such funds in such manner as may be needed to accomplish the
foregoing list of projects; provided, however, that each project contained in the list set forth
above isundertaken and that any excess funds are available because one or more of the listed
projects cost less than was estimated and not because aproject intended to be undertaken is
not so undertaken.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
MOTION 8
DISCUSSION:
Satellite Well at Well 9 ($ 360,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
This request istodesign, permit and install anew satellite water well adjacent toWell 9.
Asawater well ages, the rate atwhich water isreplaced inthe well after pumping tends to decrease due
toincrustation from mineral deposits and physical plugging oftheaquifer bysediment. Well 9has begun
toreach itssafe yield capacity, which isthe amount ofwater itcan produce without fouling thewell with
sand and gravel thus decreasing itscapacity. The Mass. DEP allows renewal orreplacement of drinking
water wells asexisting wells lose capacity. The installation ofasatellite well near Well 9will restore the
permitted water supply capacity atWell 9.
Integrated Water Resources Management Plan ($188,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
The Mass. DEP requires that municipalities develop awater resource management plan. This request isfor
the water portion ofyear 3ofa5-year plan tomanage the Town’s water, wastewater, storm water
infrastructure. The result ofthis plan will allow the Town tomake smarter investments, achieve greater
efficiency and be less vulnerable toregulatory risk or “management bycrisis”. The data driven
methodology ofthe program balances the activity, age, and stress on any given section ofwater
infrastructure to achieve abalance of cost, risk and performance. Completion ofthe resource
management plan will provide the Town with adefined map forfuture investments and keeps the Town in
compliance with EPA protocol.
Security System for Water Treatment Facility ($39,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
The request istoinstall new cameras atthe Moran Water Facility onPecunit Street and atthe Sullivan
Water Facility onNeponset Street. Currently there isnooutside monitoring ateither site, which makes the
building andequipment vulnerable tovandalism. The proposed systems are similar towhat isinstalled at
theBolivar Street Public Works location.
44 –Source page 45
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
Replace Dump Body on Truck #20 ($58,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
Changing the dump piston forthe swap-loader system will expand the usability ofTruck 20and facilitates
the change from material hauling towinter sanding. The swap-loader system has also been installed on
Highway Trucks 17and 23, sowith the new configuration, Truck 20can share trash rolloffand flat deck
bodies with the Highway trucks.
Install Tool Box on Truck #9 ($ 10,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
The request istoinstall truck tool boxes inthe pickup body of Truck 9.Currently tools in Truck 9are
simply stored loose inthe bed ofthe truck, exposing them todamage and/orloss. The tool box will
protect tools andkeep them organized, making access tothem more efficient.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 9
MOVED: That Four Hundred Four Thousand Dollars ($404,000) be appropriated tobe
spent bythe Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval
of the Department of Public Works Superintendent and the Board of Selectmen for the
purposes of various water capital projects as set forth below and to meet said appropriation
Four Hundred Four Thousand Dollars ($404,000) be transferred from the sewer enterprise
surplus (retained earnings).
FINCOM
RECOMMENDATIONS AMOUNT
Replace TV Inspection Equipment on Truck #73 $84,000
Backup Power Generators 132,000
Integrated Water Resources Management Program 188,000
TOTAL $ 404,000
The sums shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount to be
appropriated is one line item in the total amount of Four Hundred Four Thousand Dollars
404,000). The Finance Director and the Town Administrator, acting jointly, are hereby
authorized to distribute such funds in such manner as may be needed to accomplish the
foregoing list of projects; provided, however, that each project contained in the list set forth
above isundertaken and that any excess funds are available because one or more of the listed
projects cost less than was estimated and not because aproject intended to be undertaken is
not so undertaken.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
MOTION 9
DISCUSSION:
Replace TV Inspection Equipment on Truck #73 ($84,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
The request isto retrofit Truck 73with anew Cues TVinspection system, including CPU, keyboard,
monitors, cable and reel, remote controller, camera and camera transporter. Truck 73isa2001 Ford Box
Truck containing aCues sewer main TVinspection system. The truck isused toinspect sewer mains for
leaks and breaks and isingood shape. However the 15-year old TVinspection equipment isshowing wear
and the camera isnolonger made sofinding parts forrepairs isbecoming increasingly difficult.
Backup Power Generators ($ 132,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
Currently there isnobackup power atthe Water Sewer Garage, the Quail Run Lift Station orthe Bailey
Court Lift Station, which means that ifpower islost these sites will not beable toprocess sewerage. This
request isto design and install backup generators atthe 3sites tomaintain operation inthe event of
power loss.
45 –Source page 46
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
Integrated Water Resources Management Program ($ 188,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 5-0-1.
The Mass. DEP requires that municipalities develop awater resource management plan. This request isfor
the sewer portion ofyear 3ofa5-year plan tomanage theTown’swater, wastewater, storm water
infrastructure. The result ofthis plan will allow the Town tomake smarter investments, achieve greater
efficiency and be less vulnerable toregulatory risk or “management bycrisis”. The data driven
methodology ofthe program balances the activity, age, and stress on any given section ofwater
infrastructure to achieve abalance of cost, risk and performance. Completion ofthe resource
management plan will provide the Town with adefined map forfuture investments andkeeps the Town in
compliance with EPA protocol.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 10
MOVED: That Nine Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($950,000) be appropriated to be
spent bythe Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval
of the Board of Selectmen for the purpose of the repair of the embankment and the
replacement of spillways at the Reservoir Pond Dam and tomeet said appropriation the Town
Treasurer, with the approval ofthe Board ofSelectmen, be authorized to borrow, pursuant to
any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be applicable the sum of Nine
Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($950,000) with the intent that said funds shall be available in
FY17) and furthermore, any premium received by the Town upon the sale of any bonds or notes
approved by this vote, less any such premium applied to the payment of the costs of issuance
of such bonds or notes, may be applied to the payment of costs approved by this vote in
accordance with Chapter 44, Section 20 of the General Laws, thereby reducing the amount
authorized to be borrowed to pay such costs by alike amount.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
MOTION 10
DISCUSSION: The Department ofConservation and Recreation ( DCR) Office of Dam Safety (ODS) has
determined that Reservoir Pond Dam does not meet accepted dam safety standards and isapotential
threat topublic safety. On March 8,2017 DCR issued aCertificate ofNon-Compliance and Dam Safety
Order. ODS has classified the dam asalarge size, Significant Hazard Potential Structure. Significant
Hazard Potential Dams are dams that may cause the loss oflife and property damage intheevent ofdam
failure.
InNovember 2016 there was noticeable seepage observed from the walls ofthe dam. InJanuary 2017
Stephens Associates Consulting Engineers conducted aninspection ofthe dam. The inspection report
found many deficiencies including but not limited touncontrolled seepage around and beneath the primary
spillway and uncontrolled seepage atthe auxiliary spillway. Stephens Associates determined the dam to
bestructurally deficient and inpoor condition. The 300 year olddam was been found tobeinneed of
repair, breaching orremoval tobring the dam into compliance with dam safety regulations. Stephens
Associates provided three alternatives toaddress deficiencies with the dam ranging from $500,000 for
limited repairs tothe dam to $ 3,000,000 for acomplete replacement ofthe dam. Repair tothe
embankment and replacement ofspillways atacost of $ 950,000 will address currently identified
deficiencies, enhance serviceable life and upgrade the operation ofthe dam.
The Certificate ofNon-Compliance issued byDCR isbased onStephens Associates inspection conducted in
January 2017. DCR’s Dam Safety Order hasordered the Town tocomply with specific deadlines. The
Town must lower thelevel ofReservoir Pond, develop and implement aStorm Water Runoff Monitoring
Plan, conduct follow-up inspections, conduct field studies and engineering investigations and bring the
dam into compliance by July 31, 2018. Ifthe Town does not comply with these deadlines they willbe in
violation and subject tofines. The Finance Committee voted unanimously tosupport $950,000 of
borrowing for repair tothis dam.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
46 –Source page 47
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE13
ACCEPT GENERAL OR SESSION LAWS ENACTED BY THE GENERAL COURT
Article 13 Tosee ifthe town will vote toaccept any general orsession laws enacted bythe General
Court for the benefit ofcities ortowns orofbenefit tothe Town ofCanton, ortotake any other action
related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOTION 1
MOVED: That Massachusetts General Laws chapter 59, Section 5,clause twenty-second
Gbe accepted to extend veteran tax exemptions to spouses of veterans when title to a
veteran’sdomicile is held by the spouse as atrustee or conservator and to allow surviving
spouses of veterans who acquired title as trustee or conservator to retain the exemption on the
particular property after the veteran dies.
M.G.L.chapter 59, Section 5,clause twenty-second Gstates:
Twenty-second G. Real estate, in any city or town that accepts this clause, that is the
residence or domicile ofa soldier, sailor or veteran as defined inclause Forty-third ofsection 7
of chapter 4or that was the residence or domicile of such soldier, sailor or veteran at the time
of such soldier, sailor or veteran'sdeath and that has been transferred or conveyed to atrust
or conservatorship or through any other legal instrument passing ownership from the soldier,
sailor or veteran to such soldier, sailor or veteran'sspouse or surviving spouse; provided,
however, that this abatement or exemption shall be equivalent in amount to and bound by all
the applicable provisions of any single abatement or exemption under clauses Twenty-second
to Twenty-second F, inclusive, that would be available to the residence or domicile were itnot
so transferred or conveyed; provided further, that the residence ordomicile shall be entitled to
lawfully retain that tax abatement or exemption until the later of the death of the solider, sailor
or veteran, or the death of such soldier, sailor or veteran'ssurviving spouse; and provided
further, that the soldier, sailor or veteran or the surviving spouse shall remain residing in the
residence or domicile until their respective deaths.
No real estate shall be exempt ifthe assessors adjudge that ithas been conveyed toasoldier
or sailor to evade taxation.
After the assessors have allowed an exemption pursuant to this clause, no further evidence of
the existence of the facts required by this clause shall be required in any subsequent year in
the city or town in which the exemption has been allowed; provided, however, that the
assessors may refuse to allow an exemption in any subsequent year ifthey become aware that
the soldier or sailor did not satisfy all of the requisites of this clause at the time the exemption
was first granted.
Two thousand dollars of this exemption or up to $ 175, whichever basis is applicable, shall be
borne by the city or town and the balance shall be borne by the commonwealth; provided;
however, that the state treasurer shall annually reimburse the city or town for the amount of
the tax which otherwise would have been collected on account of this balance.”
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: Under the Municipal Modernization Act the Town can extend veteran tax exemptions
benefits tospouses ofveterans when title toaveteran'sproperty isheld bythespouse asatrustee or
conservator, thus being eligible foravailable veteran exemptions ontheproperty after theveteran dies. If
adopted itwould allow either a $ 750 or $ 1,000 exemption depending upon income. The Finance
Committee recommends passage ofthe motion.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
47 –Source page 48
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
MOTION 2
MOVED: That Massachusetts General Laws chapter 90, Section 17C and Massachusetts
General Laws chapter 90, Section 18B beaccepted to authorize the Town to establish aspeed
limit of 25 miles per hour on any roadway inside athickly settled or business district in the
Town on any way that is not a state highway and to allow the creation ofdesignated safety
zones on, ator near any way in the Town that isnot astate highway and with the approval of
MassDOT ifthe way isastate highway. Such safety zones would have aposted speed limit of
20 miles an hour.
M.G.L.c.90, Section 17C states:
a) Notwithstanding section 17 or any other general or special law to the contrary, the city
council, the transportation commissioner of the city of Boston, the board of selectmen, park
commissioners, atraffic commission or traffic director of acity or town that accepts this
section in the manner provided in section 4of chapter 4may, in the interests of public safety
and without further authority, establish aspeed limit of 25 miles per hour on any roadway
inside a thickly settled or business district in the city or town on any way that isnot a state
highway.
b) Upon establishing aspeed limit under this section, the city or town shall notify the
department. The operation of amotor vehicle at aspeed in excess of aspeed limit established
under this section shall be a violation of section 17.”
M.G.L.c.90, Section 18B states:
a) Notwithstanding section 18 or any other general or special law to the contrary, the city
council, the transportation commissioner of the city of Boston, the board of selectmen, park
commissioners, atraffic commission or traffic director of acity or town that accepts this
section in the manner provided in section 4of chapter 4may, in the interests of public safety
and without further authority, establish designated safety zones on, ator near any way in the
city or town which isnot a state highway, and with the approval of the department ifthe same
isastate highway. Such safety zones shall be posted as having aspeed limit of 20 miles per
hour.
b) The operation of amotor vehicle in such zone at aspeed exceeding the speed limit
established under this section shall be aviolation of section 17.”
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: Under Massachusetts General Laws Section 90the Town can establish aspeed limit of
25miles per hour onany roadway inside athickly settled orbusiness district that isnot astate highway
and allow the creation ofdesignated safety zones. Ifthe roadway isastate highway then MassDOT
approval isnecessary and such zones would have posted speed limit of20miles anhour. The Finance
Committee recommends passage ofthe motion.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE14
APPROVAL OF FUNDING FOR THE ANNUAL TH 4 OF JULY COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Article 14 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toraise and appropriate, borrow pursuant toany applicable
statute, transfer from available funds ortransfer from Free Cash, asum ofmoney tobeexpended bythe
Director ofParks and Recreation, with the approval ofthe Board ofSelectmen, forthe purpose offunding
th
the annual July 4community celebration in2017, ortotake any other action related thereto with the
intent these funds beavailable inFY17 inanticipation ofJuly 4,2017.
Board ofSelectmen for the Canton Recreation Commission
48 –Source page 49
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
MOVED: That the sum of Thirty Five Thousand Dollars ($35,000) be transferred from
Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) to be expended by the Finance Director asChief
Procurement Officer, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, for the July th 4 community
celebration in 2017 with the intent that said funds shall be available in FY17 in anticipation of
July 4,2017.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
th
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports use ofTown monies topayforthe expense ofthe4
ofJuly celebration.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE15
INSURANCE PROCEEDS
Article 15 Toseewhether the Town will vote toappropriate all sums over $150,000 recovered
under the terms ofany insurance policy and any other insurance proceeds paid tothe Town inconnection
with any losses suffered bythe Town, ortotake anyother action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the sum of Three Hundred Sixty Five Thousand Nine Hundred Fifty Eight
Dollars and Twenty Eight Cents ($365,958.28) be appropriated to be spent by the Chief
Procurement Officer with the approval of the Board of Selectmen in connection with losses
suffered by the Town and that the sum of Three Hundred Sixty Five Thousand Nine Hundred
Fifty Eight Dollars and Twenty Eight Cents ($365,958.28) be transferred from Insurance
Reimbursement Fund #173 to the Rink Enterprise Capital Account Fund #701 and furthermore
authorize the Board of Selectmen, ifpracticable, to pay such proceeds to the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: According toMassachusetts law, Town Meeting must vote toappropriate allsums over
150,000 recovered under the terms ofany insurance policy. This money represents apartial insurance
settlement received bythe Town inconnection with therink collapse during the winter of2015. This vote
allows the Town totake the insurance proceeds received and transfer the funds tothe Rink Enterprise
Capital Account. The Chief Procurement Officer and theBoard ofSelectmen will have authority tospend
the funds inthe future, once aplan forthe future ofthe rink isfinalized.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
49 –Source page 50
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE16
VOTE TO RESCIND UNUSED BORROWING AUTHORIZATIONS
Article 16 Tosee ifthe town will vote torescind unused borrowing authorizations previously voted
bythe Town, or totake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the following unused borrowing authorizations previously voted by the
Town be hereby rescinded:
Authorized Authorized BondsDebtTo Be
Date Art. Mot. Purpose Debt Issued Unissued Rescinded
Rink Compressor &
5/13/13 11 12 $ 245,000 0 $ 245,000 $245,000
Glycol Tank
Hansen School
5/13/13 32 - $ 681,295 $200,000 $481,295 $481,295
Windows
Galvin Middle School
5/13/13 33 - $ 919,322 $170,000 $749,322 $749,322
Windows
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
DISCUSSION: This isahousekeeping article toreduce the Town’s unissued debt. The final cost of the
three projects above came inless than the amount authorized byTown Meeting. By rescinding this
residual borrowing authority, the Town reduces itsunissued debt, thereby contributing toahigh bond
rating.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE17
INCREASE STABILIZATION FUND
Article 17 Tosee what sums ofmoney the Town will vote toraise and appropriate ortransfer from
any available funds orborrow pursuant toany applicable statute, in order toincrease any Stabilization
Fund of theTown established pursuant toMGL Chapter 40, section 5B, ortotake any other action related
thereto.
Board ofSelectmen for the Finance Director
MOVED: That the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000) be transferred for
the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2017 from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) ofthe Town
tothe Town Stabilization Fund.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 9-0-0
DISCUSSION: This motion transfers the sum of $ 500,000 from the Town’s Free Cash account tothe
Town’s Stabilization Fund. Ineither account, the money isavailable forfuture appropriation bythe voters
atTown Meeting. However, once transferred tothe Stabilization Fund, itwill require atwo-thirds vote of
Town Meeting toappropriate the funds rather than asimple majority. The Finance Committee supports
this motion todiscourage spending requests out ofFree Cash for short-term uses and toemphasize that
themoney istobe held inreserve for emergency use only.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
50 –Source page 51
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE18
VOTE TO AMEND ARTICLE VII, PART B –FINANCE COMMITTEE
Article 18 Toseeifthe Town will vote toamend Article VII, Part B –Finance Committee ofthe
General Bylaws toread asset forth below:
PART B -FINANCE COMMITTEE
Section 1.Composition of Committee; Limitations
There shall beaFinance Committee which shall consider any and allmunicipal operations involving an
appropriation bythe Town, forthe purpose of making reports and recommendations thereon to the Town.
Such Committee shall consist ofnine voters, who shall serve without pay, none ofwhom, during their
service onsuch Committee, shall hold any regular elective Town office orbeapaid employee ofthetown,
and no member ofsuch Committee after serving three consecutive terms shall beeligible for
reappointment.
Section 2.Quorum
Five members oftheFinance Committee shall constitute aquorum thereof.
Section 3.Method of Appointment; Terms of Office; Organization; Filling of Vacancies
The Moderator shall after the dissolution ofeach Annual Town Meeting, for the transaction ofbusiness,
and prior toJune thirtieth, appoint three members ofthe Finance Committee to serve for three years.
Ifthere isavacancy in theFinance Committee whether caused bydeath, resignation orotherwise, the
Finance Committee shall immediately notify the Town Moderator inwriting and theModerator shall
thereupon fillsuch vacancy for the unexpired term. Ifany member isabsent from eight consecutive
meetings ofthe Finance Committee, except incase ofillness, his orher position shall bedeemed tobe
vacant and the remainder ofthe unexpired term shall befilled byappointment ofthe Moderator as
provided in herein. Said committee shall choose itsown officers atitsfirst meeting following the
dissolution ofthe annual town meeting.
Section 4.Duty of Committee, In General
Itshall be theduty ofthe Finance Committee to study the financial affairs ofthe town and toadvise town
meeting asto expenditures and recommendations forappropriations tobe made byit.Tothis Committee
shall bereferred allarticles oftheWarrants calling forappropriations.
Section 5.Right of Access
The Committee shall have access toallfacts, figures, records and other information relating toallfiscal
affairs ofTown Departments, Boards, Committees or Officers and thesame shall befurnished forthwith by
any Department, Board, Committee, Officer, oremployee whenever sorequested bythe Committee.
Section 6.Poll of Members
The recommendations ofthe Finance Committee with reference tothe various Articles ofthe Town
Warrants shall include apoll ofthe votes taken atthe meetings ofthe Finance Committee, said poll to
show only the number ofCommittee members voting infavor oforagainst the actions recommended by
the full Committee.
Section 7.Procedures
The Finance Committee shall consider the various articles intheWarrants forallthe Town Meetings held
during the period for which they are appointed including the Warrant for the Annual Town Meeting next
after their appointment and they shall report inprint atall Town Meetings their estimates and
recommendations for action ofthe Town.
Section 8.Reports by Town agencies toProvide Certain Information 7-B-11
AllDepartments, Boards, Committees, orOfficers authorized bylaw toexpend money shall furnish tothe
Finance Committee, onorbefore the second Monday inSeptember ofeach year, detailed reports ofthe
expenditures for theprevious fiscal year; and, forthe ensuing fiscal year, detailed estimates ofthe
amounts necessary forthe proper maintenance and administration ofthe departments shall besubmitted
onorbefore the third Friday inJanuary.
Section 9.Transition
The members ofthe Finance Committee inoffice at the time ofthe adoption ofthe amendment tothis By-
law reducing the number ofmembers ofthe Finance Committee from twelve tonine shall remain inoffice
until the term oftheir appointment expires orthey otherwise vacate their office, notwithstanding the
reduction inthe number of members, such that the reduction inthenumber ofmembers from twelve to
nine shall beaccomplished over the course ofathree year period bythe appointment each year ofthree
members bythe Moderator, ortotake any other action related thereto.
51 –Source page 52
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
Finance Committee
MOVED: That the General By-Laws be amended by replacing Article VII, Part Bas
follows:
PART B -FINANCE COMMITTEE
Section 1.Composition of Committee; Limitations
There shall be aFinance Committee which shall consider any and all municipal operations
involving an appropriation by the Town, for the purpose of making reports and
recommendations thereon to the Town. Such Committee shall consist of nine voters, who shall
serve without pay, none of whom, during their service on such Committee, shall hold any
regular elective Town office or be apaid employee of the town, and no member of such
Committee after serving three consecutive terms shall beeligible for reappointment.
Section 2.Quorum
Five members of the Finance Committee shall constitute aquorum thereof.
Section 3.Method of Appointment; Terms of Office; Organization; Filling of Vacancies
The Moderator shall after the dissolution of each Annual Town Meeting, for the transaction of
business, and prior to June thirtieth, appoint three members of the Finance Committee to serve
for three years.
If there is avacancy in the Finance Committee whether caused by death, resignation or
otherwise, the Finance Committee shall immediately notify the Town Moderator in writing and
the Moderator shall thereupon fill such vacancy for the unexpired term. If any member is
absent from eight consecutive meetings of the Finance Committee, except in case of illness, his
or her position shall be deemed to be vacant and the remainder of the unexpired term shall be
filled by appointment of the Moderator as provided inherein. Said committee shall choose its
own officers at its first meeting following the dissolution of the annual town meeting.
Section 4.Duty of Committee, In General
It shall be the duty of the Finance Committee to study the financial affairs of the town and to
advise town meeting as toexpenditures and recommendations for appropriations to be made
byit.Tothis Committee shall bereferred all articles of the Warrants calling for appropriations.
Section 5.Right of Access
The Committee shall have access to all facts, figures, records and other information relating to
all fiscal affairs of Town Departments, Boards, Committees or Officers and the same shall be
furnished forthwith by any Department, Board, Committee, Officer, or employee whenever so
requested by the Committee.
Section 6.Poll of Members
The recommendations ofthe Finance Committee with reference to the various Articles of the
Town Warrants shall include a poll of the votes taken at the meetings of the Finance
Committee, said poll to show only the number of Committee members voting in favor of or
against the actions recommended by the full Committee.
Section 7.Procedures
The Finance Committee shall consider the various articles in the Warrants for all the Town
Meetings held during the period for which they are appointed including the Warrant for the
Annual Town Meeting next after their appointment and they shall report in print at all Town
Meetings their estimates and recommendations for action of the Town.
Section 8.Reports by Town agencies toProvide Certain Information 7-B-11
All Departments, Boards, Committees, or Officers authorized by law to expend money shall
furnish to the Finance Committee, on or before the second Monday in September of each year,
detailed reports of the expenditures for the previous fiscal year; and, for the ensuing fiscal
year, detailed estimates of the amounts necessary for the proper maintenance and
administration of the departments shall be submitted onor before the third Friday in January.
Section 9.Transition
The members ofthe Finance Committee inoffice atthe time of the adoption of the amendment
to this By-law reducing the number of members of the Finance Committee from twelve to nine
shall remain inoffice until the term of their appointment expires or they otherwise vacate their
office, notwithstanding the reduction in the number of members, such that the reduction in the
52 –Source page 53
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
number of members from twelve to nine shall be accomplished over the course of a three year
period by the appointment each year of three members by the Moderator.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
DISCUSSION: This article would make anumber ofchanges inthe Finance Committee by-law. First, it
would change the number ofmembers appointed each year from four tothree. The reason forthis isto
change the total number ofmembers from aneven number, 12, to anodd number, 9,inorder toavoid
the scenario that occurred last year where the Finance Committee had tievotes onsome articles, and
therefore norecommendation for Town Meeting. The Finance Committee believes that nine members will
still ensure afair representation ofdifferent points ofview that areimportant toits role inproviding
recommendations toTown Meeting. This article also proposes toupdate anumber ofoutdated by-law
provisions, and explicitly provides that Committee members may nothold any elective Town office orbe
paid employees of the Town.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE19
VOTE TO APPROVE SENIOR CITIZEN PROPERTY WORK-OFF ABATEMENT PROGRAM
Article 19 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toaccept the provisions ofG.L.Chapter 59section 5K
regarding aSenior Citizen Real Property Tax Work-Off program and further that the amount ofsuch
reduction of real property taxes shall not exceed $1500.00per year; and further that anapproved
representative may beallowed towork for aperson physically unable toprovide such services tothe
Town.
G.L.Chapter 59section 5Kstates:
i\]
nany city ortown which accepts the provisions ofthis section, the board ofselectmen ofatown orina
municipality having atown council form ofgovernment, the town council orthe mayor with theapproval
ofthe city council in acity may establish aprogram toallow persons over the age of60tovolunteer to
provide services tosuch city ortown. Inexchange for such volunteer services, the city or town shall
reduce the real property tax obligations ofsuch person over the age of60 onhis tax bills and any
reduction soprovided shall beinaddition to any exemption orabatement towhich any such person is
otherwise entitled and no such person shall receive arate of, orbecredited with, more than the current
minimum wage ofthe commonwealth per hour for services provided pursuant tosuch reduction nor shall
the reduction ofthe real property tax bill exceed $1,500 inagiven tax year. Itshall bethe responsibility
ofthecity ortown tomaintain arecord for each taxpayer including, butnot limited to,thenumber of
hours ofservice and thetotal amount bywhich the real property tax has been reduced and toprovide a
copy ofsuch record tothe assessor inorder that the actual tax bill reflect the reduced rate. Acopy of such
record shall also beprovided tothe taxpayer prior tothe issuance ofthe actual tax bill. Such cities and
towns shall have the power tocreate local rules and procedures forimplementing this section inany way
consistent with the intent ofthis section.
Innoinstance shall the amount bywhich aperson’sproperty tax liability isreduced inexchange for the
provision ofservices beconsidered income, wages, oremployment forpurposes oftaxation asprovided in
chapter 62, forthe purposes ofwithholding taxes asprovided inchapter 62B, forthe purposes ofworkers’
compensation asprovided inchapter 152 orany other applicable provisions ofthe General Laws, but such
person while providing such services shall beconsidered apublic employee for thepurposes ofchapter
258, but such services shall bedeemed employment for the purposes ofunemployment insurance as
provided inchapter 151A.
Acity or town, byvote ofitslegislative body, subject to itscharter, may adjust the exemption inthis
clause by: (1)allowing anapproved representative, for persons physically unable, toprovide such services
tothe city ortown; or (2)allowing the maximum reduction ofthe real property tax bill tobebased on125
volunteer service hours inagiven tax year, rather than $1,500,”
ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
53 –Source page 54
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
MOVED: That the provisions of G.L.Chapter 59 section 5K regarding aSenior Citizen
Real Property Tax Work-Off program be accepted and that the amount of such reduction of real
property taxes shall not exceed $1,500.00 per year; and further that an approved
representative be allowed towork for aperson physically unable to provide such services to
the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this article which will bring the Senior Citizen Real
Property Tax Work Off program incompliance with the Municipal Modernization Act and aligns the
program with current minimum wage. Through this program residents who are over 60may volunteer to
provide services tothe town and receive areduction inproperty taxes not toexceed $1,500 per year.
Additionally, anapproved representative may work foraperson physically unable toprovide such services
tothe town.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE20
APPROVE PAYMENT IN LIEU OF TAXES AGREEMENT WITH DYNAMIC ENERGY SOLUTIONS, LLC
Article 20 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen toenter into aPayment
InLieu ofTaxes (PILOT) Agreement with aterm ofuptotwenty years with Dynamic Energy Solutions,
LLC, 225 Cedar Hill Street, Suite 200, Marlborough, MA 01752 relative tothe installation ofsolar energy
equipment atasite located onaparcel ofland shown onAssessors Map 78, Parcel 37, onterms and
conditions determined bythe Board ofSelectmen tobeinthe best interest ofthe Town, as outlined inthe
PILOT Agreement dated September 21, 2016, onfilein the Office ofthe Town Clerk and further to
authorize the Board ofSelectmen toconsent tothe assignment byDynamic Energy Solutions, LLC ofallof
its right, title and interest inthePILOT Agreement toKIIT Renewable Energy, LLC, aNevada limited
liability company registered todobusiness inMassachusetts;
ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to enter into aPayment In Lieu of
Taxes (PILOT) Agreement with aterm of up to twenty years with Dynamic Energy Solutions,
LLC, 225 Cedar Hill Street, Suite 200, Marlborough, MA 01752 relative to the installation of
solar energy equipment at asite located onaparcel of land shown on Assessors Map 78, Parcel
37, on terms and conditions determined by the Board of Selectmen to bein the best interest of
the Town, as outlined in the PILOT Agreement dated September 21, 2016, and that the Board
of Selectmen be authorized to consent to the assignment by Dynamic Energy Solutions, LLC of
all of its right, title and interest in the PILOT Agreement to KIIT Renewable Energy, LLC, a
Nevada limited liability company registered to do business in Massachusetts.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports theBoard of Selectmen’srequest toenter into a
Payment InLieu ofTaxes (PILOT) Agreement with aterm ofuptotwenty years with Dynamic Energy
Solutions, LLC for personal property taxes. The Town will receive $21,444 per year over the life ofthe
PILOT. The PILOT Agreement ensures the Town will have apredictable flow of income fortwenty years.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
54 –Source page 55
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE21
VOTE TO APPROVE ASPECIAL TAX AGREEMENT WITH FRESENIUS KABI COMPOUNDING, LLC
Article 21 Toseeifthe Town will vote toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen ( a)to offer Fresenius
Kabi Compounding, LLC (“Fresenius Kabi”) aSpecial Tax Assessment and toenter into aSpecial Tax
Assessment Agreement (“ STA Agreement”) with Fresenius Kabi and Hazelmere 20Dan Road Ltd., LLC for
the property located at20Dan Road inCanton consistent with the STA Agreement onfile inthe Office of
theBoard ofSelectmen, ( b)toexecute theSTA Agreement and any amendments and documents relating
thereto onterms and conditions determined bythe Board ofSelectmen tobeinthe best interest ofthe
Town, and (c)toundertake any actions deemed bythe Board ofSelectmen tobenecessary toeffectuate
the STA Agreement, including but notlimited tosubmitting toMassachusetts’ Economic Assistance
Coordinating Council (EACC), the STA Agreement and allsuch documents and information necessary to
have the EACC approve the STA Agreement and certify aproject consistent with the STA Agreement; to
determine that the project authorized bythe STA Agreement isconsistent with the Town’seconomic
development objectives and islikely toincrease orretain employment opportunities for Town residents;
ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Board of Selectmen be authorized ( a) to offer Fresenius Kabi
Compounding, LLC (“ Fresenius Kabi”) aSpecial Tax Assessment and toenter into aSpecial Tax
Assessment Agreement (“ STA Agreement”) with Fresenius Kabi and Hazelmere 20 Dan Road
Ltd., LLC for the property located at 20 Dan Road in Canton, (b) to execute the STA Agreement
and any amendments and documents relating thereto on terms and conditions determined by
the Board of Selectmen to be inthe best interest of the Town, and (c) to undertake any actions
deemed by the Board of Selectmen tobe necessary to effectuate the STA Agreement, including
but not limited tosubmitting to Massachusetts’ Economic Assistance Coordinating Council
EACC), the STA Agreement and all such documents and information necessary to have the
EACC approve the STA Agreement and certify aproject consistent with the STA Agreement; and
that it hereby bedetermined that the project authorized by the STA Agreement is consistent
with the Town’s economic development objectives and is likely to increase or retain
employment opportunities for Town residents.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted unanimously tosupport article 21the Special Tax
Assessment ( STA) Agreement with Fresenius Kabi Compounding, LLC. The STA isavailable asthe business
will bemaking improvements tothe property asitconstructs acompounding business. Inexchange for
the taxincentive, the business willinvest approximately $ 4.1 million inthe construction, renovation and
other hard development costs with another $4.4 tobespent inmachinery, equipment and other costs to
equip theproperty foracommercial laboratory space. Because ofthe STA, preference for this work will
begiven tolocal businesses. The STA also enables Canton todocument and hold accountable Fresenius
Kabi Compounding, LLC for the creation of65permanent full-time employees within 5years. These are
high quality local jobs; part-time ortemporary/ contract workers donot count towards that number. There
will beongoing monitoring, and arecapture provision isincluded ifthe business does not fulfill said
obligations. Therecapture or c‘ lawback’ creates the ability forthe town toseek payment foraportion of
the tax which had previously been forgiven. Itshould benoted this company has along history of
compounding and the expectation isthat the business will besetup forlong term use inthis space.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
55 –Source page 56
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE22
VOTE TO ACQUIRE PROPERTY RIGHTS FOR THE OLD SHEPARD POND DAM PROJECT.
Article 22 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen toacquire by gift,
purchase oreminent domain land and easements inallorany portions of those properties known as:
Property Address Town Assessor ID
95 Messinger St. Map 25, Parcel 259
20 Old Shepard St. Map 25, Parcel 262
21 Messinger St. Map 25, Parcel 327
281 Washington St. Map 24, Parcel 68
10 Old Shepard St. Map 24, Parcel 69
including but not limited to the paper street known asDrake Lane, for the repair, maintenance and
operation ofOld Shepherd Pond Dam, including but not limited toperpetual and temporary easements for
access, construction activities, grading, sloping, drainage and installation ofrip-rap; toseeifthe Town will
vote toraise and appropriate, borrow pursuant toany applicable statute ortransfer from Free Cash and
such other available funds, asum ofmoney for such purposes; toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen to
take any and allrelated actions necessary orappropriate tocarry out the purposes ofthis article; orto
take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to acquire by gift, purchase and
eminent domain land and easements in all or any portions of those properties known as:
Property Address Town Assessor ID
95 Messinger St. Map 25, Parcel 259
20 Old Shepard St. Map 25, Parcel 262
14 Old Shepard St. Map 25, Parcel 327
281 Washington St. Map 24, Parcel 68
10 Old Shepard St. Map 24, Parcel 69
including but not limited tothe paper street known asDrake Lane, for the repair, maintenance,
reconstruction and operation of Old Shepherd Pond Dam, including but not limited to perpetual
and temporary easements for access, construction activities, grading, sloping, drainage and
installation of rip-rap; and that Forty Four Thousand Dollars ($44,000) be appropriated for
such purposes tobe spent by the Board of Selectmen and to meet said appropriation that Forty
Four Thousand Dollars ($44,000) be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance)
inthe Treasury ofthe Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted tosupport this Article, which allows the Town toacquire
land and easements onfive different parcels ofland, inorder tocomplete anecessary update toOld
Shepard Pond Dam. Therepairs to theOld Shepard Pond Dam are considered necessary inorder tobring
theDam into compliance with Massachusetts laws andproper safety protocols.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE23
VOTE TO ACCEPT UTILITY EASEMENT( S) FOR TREETOP ADVENTURES
ARTICLE 23 TreeTop Adventures General Utility Easement: Tosee ifthe Town will vote toauthorize
the Board ofSelectmen toaccept the grant ofageneral utility easement from Fitness Adventures, LLC
d/b/aTreeTop Adventures atthe Irish Cultural Centre forthe purpose ofinstalling and maintaining sewer,
water and electric utilities, which islocated on the property ofthe Town ofCanton.
Said Easement isshown asa “35’-50’” general utility easement, 15,319 s.f.onthe plan entitled “TreeTop
Adventures General Utility Easement Exhibit Plan C3, Canton, MA.” Scale: 1”=
40’ dated January 5,2017,
56 –Source page 57
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
prepared byNortheast Engineers & Consultants, Inc., 55John Clarke Road, Middletown, RI02842 and
Spatial Data & Design 99South Main Street Millbury, MA01527, acopy ofwhich plan isonfile inthe
office ofthe Canton Town Clerk.
Specifically within Said Easement shown as “35’-50’” general utility easement, 15,319 s.f.onthe plan
entitled “TreeTop Adventures General Utility Easement asks that the Town vote toauthorize theBoard of
Selectmen toaccept the grant ofthe electrical portion ofthe aforementioned general utility easement
from Eversource for the purpose ofinstalling and maintaining 3electrical poles and 200 Amp service to
Fitness Adventures, LLC d/b/aTreeTop Adventures, Canton, MA.
Said Electrical Easement from Eversource isshown as “Work Order #2155926, Proposed Pole Location”
dated 8/8/2016 and 10/11/2016, scale 1”=40’ and prepared and submitted byEversource tothe Board of
Selectmen, acopy ofwhich plan isonfile inthe office ofthe Canton Town Clerk.
Daniel Pendergast and 19 others
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 23 as printed in the warrant be indefinitely
postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends indefinite postponement asthis article isnot
ready.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE24
VOTE TO AUTHORIZE THE LEASING OF ALL OR ANY PORTIONS OF PROPERTIES LOCATED AT
THE PAUL REVERE HERITAGE SITE
Article 24 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen to lease allorany
portions ofthe properties known asPaul Revere Heritage Site and the buildings onand improvements to
such properties including but not limited to: (a)the Barn and Rolling Mill asdescribed bythat certain First
Amended and Restated Development Agreement dated April 1,2015 (“Development Agreement”); ( b)the
Community Land containing approximately 2.2 acres and asdescribed by the Development Agreement,
including but not limited to the MillPond, and (c)the property located at96Revere Street and identified
asTown Assessor Map 26, Parcel 95, for aterm not toexceed thirty (30) years and otherwise todispose
ofinterests insuch properties and to enter into agreements for the operation, use and management of
such properties for any public, commercial ormunicipal purposes, including butnot limited torecreation,
community buildings, historical purposes, museum, eating and drinking establishments, retail and public
assembly purposes, and for such consideration and onsuch terms and conditions asthe Board of
Selectmen deems advisable; ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to lease all or any portions of the
properties known as Paul Revere Heritage Site and the buildings on and improvements to such
properties including but not limited to: (a) the Barn and Rolling Mill as described by that
certain First Amended and Restated Development Agreement dated April 1,2015
Development Agreement”); ( b) the Community Land containing approximately 2.2acres and
as described by the Development Agreement, including but not limited to the Mill Pond, and (c)
the property located at 96 Revere Street and identified as Town Assessor Map 26, Parcel 95, for
aterm not to exceed thirty (30) years and otherwise to dispose of interests in such properties
and to enter into agreements for the operation, use and management of such properties for any
public, commercial or municipal purposes, including but not limited to recreation, community
buildings, historical purposes, museum, eating and drinking establishments, retail and public
assembly purposes, and for such consideration and on such terms and conditions as the Board
of Selectmen deems advisable.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
57 –Source page 58
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
DISCUSSION: The purpose ofthis article istoprovide theBoard ofSelectmen with the authority to
enter into along term lease with an organization which would beresponsible fortheoperation ofthe Paul
Revere Heritage Site if,and when, the Board ofSelectmen concludes that the Town isready tomove
forward with afinal plan forthe Site, and that plan willbebest implemented byalease with one ormore
experienced operators.
The Paul Revere Heritage Site Commission, appointed bythe Board of Selectman has worked toidentify
how the Town will utilize and manage the rolling mill, barn and theadjacent outside courtyard areas ofthe
site. The Commission has been assisted byaconsultant, Consult Econ, Inc. The Commission envisions the
area asa “heritage attraction”. The rolling mill will be amuseum and cultural center, the barn will be a
visitor welcome center and restaurant, the outside courtyard areas would support theactivities planned
forthe buildings.
While theplan forthe Site isstill inthe development phase, with many financial and operational issues to
bedecided, theBoard ofSelectmen hasconcluded that the Town should not attempt tomanage theSite.
Successful operation ofamuseum, cultural center and restaurant will require staff experienced insuch
operations.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE25
VOTE TO ACQUIRE SEWER EASEMENT AT 140 WILL DRIVE
Article 25 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen toacquire by gift,
purchase and eminent domain pursuant to G.L.c.40, G.L.c.79and G.L.c.83and any other applicable
statute, easements over and under that portion oftheproperty known asTown Assessor Map 57, Parcel
72and located at140 Will Drive described below for sewer purposes, including without limitation for the
installation, maintenance, repair and operation ofasewer main, grading, sloping, utilities, construction
activities and other related purposes; tosee ifthe Town will vote toraise and appropriate, borrow
pursuant toany applicable statute ortransfer from available funds, asum of money forsuch purposes; or
totake any other action related thereto.
Metes and Bounds Description ofEasement Area
Beginning atapoint onthe Southerly line ofLot 4asshown onLand Court Plan No. 6847-C,
S83°39'13"W, 55.00 feet from abend, thence turning and running
N54°44'08"E 263.85feet along the existing 20foot wide sewer easement, asshown inplan
book 240 page 1473 toapoint; thence turning and running
N82°45'52"W 7.40feet along theexisting 20foot wide sewer easement, asshown on the plan
recorded inPlan Book 240, Page 1473 toapoint; thence turning and
running
S54°44'08"W 263.68 feet; and thence turning and running
N83°39'13"W 7.53feet tothe point ofbeginning.
Said easement area contains approximately 1,319 S.F.
ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to acquire by gift, purchase and
eminent domain pursuant toG.L.c.40, G.L.c.79 and G.L.c.83 and any other applicable
58 –Source page 59
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
statute, easements over and under that portion of the property known as Town Assessor Map
57, Parcel 72 and located at 140 Will Drive described below for sewer purposes, including
without limitation for the installation, maintenance, repair and operation of asewer main,
grading, sloping, utilities, construction activities and other related purposes.
Metes and Bounds Description of Easement Area
Beginning at apoint on the Southerly line of Lot 4 asshown on Land Court Plan
No. 6847-C, S83°39'13"W, 55.00 feet from abend, thence turning and running
N54°44'08"E 263.85 feet along the existing 20foot wide sewer easement, as
shown in plan book 240 page 1473 to apoint; thence turning and
running
N82°45'52"W 7.40 feet along the existing 20 foot wide sewer easement, as shown on
the plan recorded in Plan Book 240, Page 1473 to apoint; thence
turning and running
S54°44'08"W 263.68 feet; and thence turning and running
N83°39'13"W 7.53 feet to the point of beginning.
Said easement area contains approximately 1,319 S.F.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: This article issupported bythe Finance Committee. Abuilding addition inadvertently
encroached onanexisting Town easement. This article allows the Town to acquire anadditional five-foot
easement onthe other side ofthe current easement torestore the easement to20feet.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE26
ADDITIONAL LOCAL APPROPRIATION TO SUPPLEMENT THE COMMONWEALTH’ SCHAPTER 90
ROADS PROGRAM
Article 26 Toseeifthe town willvote toraise and appropriate, transfer from Free Cash, transfer
from available funds, transfer from water enterprise surplus (retained earnings), orborrow pursuant to
any applicable statute, asum ofmoney to bespent bythe Board ofSelectmen acting asthe Board
ofPublic Works tosupplement the amount received from the Chapter 90 Roads Program with
improvements done inaccordance with improvement specifications asdetermined byand subject to,the
approval ofthe Department ofPublic Works and consistent with locations identified inthe Town’s
Pavement Management System, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOTION 1
MOVED: That Four Hundred Seventy Five Thousand Dollars ($475,000) be appropriated
to be spent by the Board of Selectmen acting as the Board of Public Works to supplement the
amount received from the Chapter 90 Roads Program with improvements done in accordance
with improvement specifications as determined by and subject to, the approval of the
Department of Public Works and consistent with locations identified in the Town’sPavement
Management System and to meet said appropriation Four Hundred Seventy Five Thousand
Dollars ($475,000) be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury
ofthe Town with the intent that said funds shall be available in FY17.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
59 –Source page 60
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
DISCUSSION: This motion transfers thesum of $475,000 from the Town’s Free Cash Account to the
Town’sChapter 90Roads Program tocover costs forrepaving streets and repairing sidewalks impacted by
the water main project, aswell asproviding supplemental funds forother road improvements.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 2
MOVED: That Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000) be appropriated to be spent
by the Board ofSelectmen acting as the Board ofPublic Works to supplement the amount
received from the Chapter 90 Roads Program with improvements done in accordance with
improvement specifications as determined by and subject to, the approval of the Department of
Public Works and consistent with locations identified in the Town’s Pavement Management
System and to meet said appropriation Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000) be
transferred from the water enterprise surplus (retained earnings) with the intent that said
funds shall be available inFY17.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: This motion transfers the sum of $
400,000 from the Town’sWater Surplus Account to
the Town’sChapter 90 Roads Program tocover costs forrepaving streets and repairing sidewalks
impacted bythe water main project.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE27
RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
Article27To see ifthe Town will vote to adopt and approve the recommendations of the
Community Preservation Committee for Fiscal Year 2018 and tosee ifthe Town will vote toimplement
such recommendations byappropriating asum orsums ofmoney from the Community Preservation Fund
established pursuant toChapter 44B ofthe General Laws, orotherwise to raise and appropriate, transfer
from available funds orborrow pursuant toany applicable statute asum ofmoney for such purposes; to
authorize the Board ofSelectmen, with the approval ofthe Community Preservation Committee, to
acquire bypurchase, gift oreminent domain such real property and property interests inthe name of, or
enforceable bythe Town, including perpetual affordable housing restrictions, conservation restrictions and
historical preservation restrictions, and todispose ofTown property orportions thereof orinterests
therein, allas may berequired bythe Community Preservation Act and Chapter 184 ofthe General Laws
and asmay benecessary orappropriate tocarry out the recommendations ofthe Community Preservation
Committee; or totake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen for the Community Preservation Committee
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 1
MOVED: That the sum of Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000) be appropriated from the
FISCAL YEAR 2018 Community Preservation Fund revenues for the administrative expenses of
the Community Preservation Committee inFISCAL YEAR 2018.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
60 –Source page 61
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
MOTION 1
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: This motion isanannual motion appropriating funds from the
Community Preservation Act (CPA) monies tofund the administrative and operating expenses ofthe
Community Preservation Committee. Under the Community Preservation Act, the Town may appropriate
uptofive percent ofthe total funds collected through the local CPA surcharge aswell asstate matching
funds, to beused for theCommittee’sadministrative and operating expenses. The sum of $30,000 is
based onthe total estimated receipts for fiscal year 2018. Any amounts not used during the year for
legally permitted administrative expenses oroperating expenses will roll over tothe general CPA fund at
the end offiscal year 2018.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
COMMUNITY PRESERVATON COMMITTEE MOTION 2
MOVED: That the following fund transfers be hereby made in FISCAL YEAR 2018 as
recommended by the Community Preservation Committee:
A.Sixty Thousand Dollars ($60,000) be transferred from FISCAL YEAR 2018
receipts of the Community Preservation Fund into the Fund Balance Reserved
for Open Space;
B.Sixty Thousand Dollars ($60,000) be transferred from FISCAL YEAR 2018
receipts of the Community Preservation Fund into the Fund Balance Reserved
for Historic Resources;
C.Sixty Thousand Dollars ($60,000) be transferred from FISCAL YEAR 2018
receipts of the Community Preservation Fund into the Fund Balance Reserved
for Community Housing; and
D.Three Hundred Ninety Thousand Dollars ($390,000) be transferred from FISCAL
YEAR 2018 receipts of the Community Preservation Fund into the Undesignated
Fund Balance Reserved for Community Preservation Act.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
MOTION 2
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this motion totransfer CPA
fiscal year 2018 receipts into designated reserve funds asallowed under the CPA, thereby allowing the
Town tohave these funds available forfuture appropriation.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 3
MOVED: That the sum of One Hundred Forty Eight Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy Five
Dollars ($148,975) be appropriated to be spent by the Board of Selectmen for the purpose of
the installation of acopper roof onthe historic Revere Rolling Mill at the Paul Revere Heritage
site and to fund this appropriation One Hundred Forty Eight Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy
Five Dollars ($148,975) be transferred from the Undesignated Fund Balance Reserved for
Community Preservation Act.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
MOTION 3
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this motion totransfer
148,975 from CPA funds toinstall acopper roof on the historic Revere Rolling Mill atthe Paul Revere
Heritage Site. The Town has aunique opportunity to partner with theRevere Company, which has
generously agreed toprovide the copper forthe roof atcost, toinstall the copper roof. The copper roof is
more expensive toinstall than atypical asphalt roof, but has alonger anticipated useful life, and will add
tothe historic appearance ofthe Mill. This amount covers the incremental cost ofthe copper roof.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
61 –Source page 62
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 4
MOVED: That the sum of Thirty Five Thousand Dollars ($35,000) be transferred from the
Fund Balance Reserved for Historic Resources for Community Preservation Act to be spent by
the Library Director with the approval of the Board of Selectmen for the restoration and
preservation of the Washington Street Library entrance.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
MOTION 4
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports funds inthe amount of
35,000forrestoring theoak door, transom, lampposts, and granite steps that form thefront entrance to
the historic portion ofthe library.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 5
MOVED: That the sum of Twenty Eight Thousand Dollars ($28,000) be appropriated to
be spent by the Conservation Agent with the approval of the Board of Selectmen for
professional services for an architectural study and code assessment of the historic Pequitside
Barn, and to fund this appropriation Twenty Five Thousand Dollars ($25,000) be transferred
from the fund Balance Reserved for Historic Resources and Three Thousand Dollars ($3,000) be
transferred from the Undesignated Fund Balance Reserved for Community Preservation Act.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
MOTION 5
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this motion totransfer
28,000 from CPA funds tostudy the work needed tomaintain and bring uptocode the historic Pequitside
Barn.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 6
MOVED: That the sum ofEighty Thousand Dollars ($80,000) be appropriated to be spent
by the Canton Housing Authority for the purpose of installing exhaust fans at the Rubin Court
Senior Housing Complex and to fund this appropriation Eighty Thousand Dollars ($80,000) be
transferred from the Fund Balance Reserved for Community Housing.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
MOTION 6
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this motion totransfer
80,000 from CPA funds toinstall exhaust fans inunits atRubin Court toaddress ventilation. The state is
also providing funding inthe amount of $40,000.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
62 –Source page 63
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 7
MOVED: That the sum of Four Hundred One Thousand Three Hundred Dollars
401,300) be appropriated to be spent by the Parks and Recreation Director with the approval
of the Board of Selectmen for the purpose of the restoration ofthe Devoll and Tilden
Playgrounds and to fund this appropriation Four Hundred One Thousand Three Hundred Dollars
401,300) be transferred from the Undesignated Fund Balance Reserved for Community
Preservation Act.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
MOTION 7
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this motion totransfer
401,300 from CPA funds torestore and rehabilitate the Tilden and Devoll playgrounds. Both playgrounds
need substantial upgrades tomeet current codes, including compliance with the ADA. The Finance
Committee encourages Parks and Recreation Department todesign the playgrounds tobeinclusive for all
children, including those with special needs.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 8
MOVED: That the sum of One Hundred Seventy Three Thousand Five Hundred Dollars
173,500) be appropriated to be spent by the School Committee with the approval of the
Canton Little League and the Building Renovations Committee and to fund this appropriation
One Hundred Seventy Three Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($173,500) be transferred from
the Undesignated Fund Balance Reserved for Community Preservation Act for the purpose of
the construction of bathroom and storage facilities at the Kennedy Elementary School fields.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 9-0-0
MOTION 8
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends this motion, which will
provide funding for the construction of bathrooms and storage facility atthe athletic fields behind the
Kennedy School. These facilities are much needed, and Canton Little League has generously agreed to
fund raise additional monies that will beneeded forthis project. The facilities will beavailable toall
groups using thefields and will improve the public’senjoyment of this facility. The School Committee has
voted infavor ofthis project and will have ultimate authority over the project and the facilities.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 9
MOVED: That the sum of One Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($150,000) be
appropriated to be spent by the Conservation Agent and the Town Planner with the approval of
the Board ofSelectmen for professional services for three separate planning projects: an open
space and recreation plan, acomprehensive trails plan and aNewhouse Waterfront landscape
plan; and to fund this appropriation One Hundred Ten Thousand Dollars ($110,000) be
transferred from the fund Balance Reserved for Open Space and Recreation and Forty Thousand
Dollars ($40,000) betransferred from the Undesignated Fund Balance Reserved for Community
Preservation Act
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
63 –Source page 64
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
MOTION 9
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this motion totransfer
150,000 from CPA funds tofund three studies: Open Space and Recreation Plan Update; Comprehensive
Trails Plan; and Newhouse Waterfront Landscaping Plan. Having acompleted Open Space and Recreation
Plan onfile with the state will allow the Town topursue state grants; conducting allthree studies atthe
same time will allow foreconomies ofscale.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 10
MOVED: That the sum of Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000) be appropriated to be
spent by the Town Planner with the approval of the Board of Selectmen for apermanent
conservation restriction for the Paul Revere Heritage Site and to fund this appropriation
Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000) be transferred from the fund Balance Reserved for Open
Space and Recreation.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
MOTION 10
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this motion totransfer
20,000 from CPA funds to obtain anindependent third party tohold the conservation restriction onthe
open spaces atthe Revere Heritage site. The open spaces obtained using CPA funds must be protected by
apermanent conservation restriction. This appropriation will cover the transaction costs.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE28
VOTE TO ESTABLISH A SOLAR FACILITY STABILIZATION FUND
Article28To see ifthe town will vote to establish asolar facility stabilization fund and to
appropriate and raise bytaxation, bytransfer from available funds orby transfer from Free Cash, asum
ofmoney forthe Solar Facility Stabilization Fund, ortotake any action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Town establish aSolar Facility Stabilization Fund in the Treasury of
the Town pursuant to Chapter 40 section 5B of the general laws in order to set aside funds for
shortfalls incurred when payments by the Town to the solar provider at the landfill exceed the
net metering credits received by the Town for the solar electricity generated at this solar
facility.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
64 –Source page 65
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted unanimously toauthorize formation ofthis stabilization
fund. Under the current contract, Eversource credits the Town for the electricity produced, based upon
current market value ofthe electricity. Since electricity rates have been relatively flat, there isa
possibility that the payments made bythe Town forthe solar electricity will exceed the credits paid tothe
Town forelectrical production. The purpose ofestablishing the Solar Facility Stabilization Fund istobuffer
the impact onTown budgets when the Town becomes anet payer. Atthis time, nofunds are being
recommended toberaised ortransferred tothe Solar Facility Stabilization fund, so this article issimply
creating amechanism todosointhe future.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE29
TERMINATE AND RE-ALLOCATE SPECIAL EDUCATION STABILIZATION FUND
Article 29 Tosee ifthe town will (i)terminate the previously established Special Education
Stabilization Fund pursuant toMGL Chapter 40, Section 5Band replace itwith anew Special Education
Reserve Account under the Municipal Modernization Act pursuant toSession Laws: Chapter 218 ofthe
Acts of2016, Section 13D and (ii)re-allocate the existing balance inthe Special Education Stabilization
Fund tothe new Special Education Reserve Account, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectman for School Committee
MOVED: That anew Special Education Reserve Account be hereby established in the
treasury of the Town pursuant to the Municipal Modernization Act Chapter 218 of the Acts of
2016, Section 24, establishing G.L.c.40 section 13E; and
that the amount of One Hundred Eleven Thousand One Hundred Forty Six Dollars ($111,146) be
transferred from the existing Special Education Stabilization Fund (Org. #68011) previously
established pursuant to MGL Chapter 40, Section 5B; to the Special Education Reserve Account
established pursuant to this motion; and
that the existing Special Education Stabilization Fund (Org. #68011) previously established
pursuant to MGL Chapter 40, Section 5B be terminated and repealed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends approval ofthis article. Afewyears ago, theTown
established aSpecial Education Stabilization Account, which isused tofund unforeseen special education
costs. This fund requires a2/3vote ofTown Meeting toexpend, which does not provide much flexibility
during the fiscal year ifspecial education costs unexpectedly climb. This article proposes that the Town
accept General Laws chapter 40, section 13E, recently enacted bythe state under the Municipal
Modernization Act. Section 13E, once accepted byTown Meeting and the School Committee, establishes a
reserve fund for unanticipated orunbudgeted costs ofspecial education. Monies inthis reserve fund can
bespent with the approval ofthe School Committee and the Board ofSelectmen, without the need for
further Town Meeting appropriation, much like the Finance Committee Reserve Fund. The balance inthe
Special Education Reserve Fund cannot exceed 2%ofthe annual net school spending for the town’s
schools. The Finance Committee recommends establishing the Special Education Reserve Fund, and
transferring themonies currently inthe Special Education Stabilization Account tothis new account. The
Special Education Stabilization Account would also beabolished asnolonger needed.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
65 –Source page 66
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE30
VOTE TO APPROVE FUNDS TO REPLACE ROOF AT LT. PETER M. HANSEN SCHOOL
Article30To see ifthe Town will vote to appropriate and raise bytaxation, transfer from available
funds, or transfer from Free Cash, ortoauthorize the Town Treasurer with the approval ofthe Board of
Selectmen, toborrow (and toissue bonds ornotes therefore) asum ofmoney tobeexpended under the
direction ofthe Building Renovation Committee forthe replacement of42,890 square feet ofthe roof on
theLt. Peter M. Hansen Elementary School, 25Pecunit Street, Canton, Massachusetts, which proposed
repair project would materially extend the useful life ofthe school and preserve anasset that otherwise is
capable ofsupporting the required educational program and for which the Town may beeligible for a
school construction grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (“ MSBA”). The Town
acknowledges that the MSBA’sgrant program isanon-entitlement, discretionary program based onneed,
asdetermined bythe MSBA, and any project costs theTown incurs inexcess of any grant approved by
and received from the MSBA shall bethe sole responsibility ofthe Town. Any grant that the Town may
receive from the MSBA for the Project shall not exceed the lesser of (1)forty-four and 48/100 percent
44.48%)ofeligible, approved project costs, asdetermined by the MSBA, or (2)the total maximum grant
amount determined bythe MSBA, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen for the School Committee
MOVED: That One Million Seven Hundred Forty Thousand Dollars ($1,740,000) be
appropriated, to beexpended bythe School Committee under the direction of the Building
Renovation Committee for the replacement of 42,890 square feet of roof on the Lt. Peter M.
Hansen Elementary School, 25 Pecunit Street, Canton, Massachusetts which proposed repair
project would materially extend the useful life of the school and preserve an asset that
otherwise iscapable of supporting the required educational program for which the Town may
be eligible for agrant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (“ MSBA”); and to meet
said appropriation the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, be
authorized toborrow, pursuant toany applicable statute or any other enabling authority as
may be, One Million Seven Hundred Forty Thousand Dollars ($1,740,000) and to accept any
MSBA grant therefor and furthermore, any premium received by the Town upon the sale ofany
bonds or notes approved by this vote, less any such premium applied tothe payment ofthe
costs of issuance of such bonds or notes, may be applied to the payment of the costs approved
by this vote in accordance with Chapter 44, Section 20 of the General Laws, thereby reducing
the amount authorized to be borrowed by alike amount; and provided however, the Town
acknowledges that MSBA grant program isa non-entitlement, discretionary program based on
need, as determined by the MSBA, and any project costs the Town incurs in excess of any grant
approved by and received from the MSBA shall be the sole responsibility of the Town; and
provided, further, that any grant that the Town may receive from the MSBA for the Project shall
not exceed the lesser of (1) forty-four and 48/100 percent (44.48%) of eligible, approved
projects costs, as determined by the MSBA, or (2) the total maximum grant amount determined
by the MSBA. No amounts shall be borrowed or expended hereunder until the Town shall have
entered into aProject Funding Agreement for this project with the MSBA that provides for a
grant to the Town. The amount authorized to be borrowed pursuant to this vote shall be
reduced to the extent of the amount of any MSBA grant set forth in the Project Funding
Agreement between the Town and the MSBA relating to this project.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this article which authorizes
theSchool Committee toreplace theportion ofthe roof onthe Lt.Peter MHansen Elementary School that
isnot part ofthe new addition. The roof iscurrently allowing water infiltration and itisbelow applicable
building and energy codes. The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) has approved this
project and itisexpected that the Town will receive partial funding from the MSBA. Inorder toreceive the
MSBA reimbursement theAnnual Town Meeting must approve thetotal cost ofthe project: $1,740, 947.
Reimbursement from the MSBA isexpected tobe for44.48%ofthe qualifying costs. The remaining
amount, approximately $ 1,000,000 will befunded through debt capital. The Capital Planning Committee
recommended this request by avote of5-0-1.
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION: This project would permit the aging roof on the Hansen
School tobereplaced, not including the recent addition. The roof iscurrently allowing water infiltration
and itisbelow applicable building and energy codes. Ifthe roof continues todeteriorate, itcould
66 –Source page 67
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
jeopardize the town’s investment inthat building ifitisnot repaired in atimely manner. The
Massachusetts School Board Authority (MSBA) hasreviewed this project and determined that itdoes
qualify forMSBA reimbursement tothe town. Subsequently, this reimbursement was granted to the town
and itisawaiting action attown meeting toapprove the project. This means that anestimated 44.48%of
the qualifying costs for the roof will bereimbursed tothe town bythe MSBA. The total project budget
would be $1,740,000 and when factoring initems that are not eligible forstate reimbursement itis
anticipated that the town will receive approximately $ 730,947 inMSBA reimbursement, and not more than
764,641. Inorder toproceed with this project andtoreceive the MSBA grant, the Annual Town Meeting
must approve thetotal cost ofthis project. The amount remaining, approximately $ 1,000,000 (beyond
MSBA funding), will befunded through debt capital. The Capital Planning Committee recommended this
request byavote of5-0-1.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE31
VOTE TO APPROVE FUNDS TO UPDATE THE TOWN’SHAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
Article31To see ifthe town will vote toraise and appropriate, transfer from available funds,
transfer from Free Cash, orborrow pursuant toany applicable statute, asum ofmoney tobespent bythe
Board of Selectmen toengage consulting engineering services for the purpose ofupdating thetown's
Hazard Mitigation Plan and expenses related thereto, ortomake improvements recommended insaid
Plan, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 31 as printed in the warrant be indefinitely
postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted toIndefinitely Postpone.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE32
VOTE TO APPROVE FUNDS FOR FLOWERS/ MEMORIALS FOR COMMUNITY RECOGNITION
Article32To see ifthe Town will vote to raise and appropriate by transfer from available funds or
bytransfer from Free Cash, asum ofmoney for flowers ormemorials for community recognition relating
topresent orformer employees and town officials and toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen todetermine
when such recognition isdone forapublic purpose; ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the sum of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) be transferred from Free Cash
Undesignated Fund Balance) for the Board of Selectmen to expend, for flowers, memorials or
other means of recognition for community recognition relating to present or former employees,
town officials, veterans and other community members and that the Board of Selectmen are
authorized to determine when such recognition isdone for apublic purpose.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
67 –Source page 68
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted to support the creation ofthis account. The Finance
Committee understands that there isaneed for this type ofcommunity recognition and supports this
Article. Itisanticipated that this sum will carry over tofuture fiscal years until itneeds tobereplenished.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE33
AMEND SECTION 13OF ARTICLE VIII OF THE TOWN’SGENERAL BY-LAWS
Article 33 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toamend itsGeneral By-laws bydeleting Section 13of
Article VIII and inserting inplace thereof the following:
8-138-13b
Section 13. Denial, Revocation or Suspension of Local Licenses and Permits /
a) Any Town agency may deny any application for, orrevoke orsuspend abuilding permit, orany
local license orpermit including renewals and transfers issued byany board, officer, department
forany person, corporation orbusiness enterprise, who hasneglected or refused topay anylocal
taxes, fees assessments, betterments or any other municipal charges, including amounts
assessed under MGL Chapter 40Section 21D orwith respect toany activity, event orother
matter which isthe subject ofsuch license orpermit and which activity, event, ormatter is
carried out orexercised onorabout real estate whose owner has neglected orrefused topay any
8-13a
local taxes, fees assessments, betterments orany other municipal charges.
The Collector-Treasurer or other municipal official responsible for therecords ofall municipal
taxes, assessments, betterments and other municipal charges, hereinafter referred toasthe
Collector-Treasurer shall annually and may periodically furnish toeach department, Board,
Commission ordivision, hereinafter referred toasthe licensing authority, that issues licenses or
permits including renewals and transfers, alist ofany person, corporation, orbusiness
enterprise, hereinafter referred toastheparty, that hasneglected orrefused topay any local
taxes, fees, assessments, betterments orother municipal charges and that such party has not
filed ingood faith apending application foranabatement ofsuch tax orapending petition before
theAppellate Tax Board.
b) The licensing authority may deny, revoke orsuspend any license or permit, including renewals and
transfers ofany party whose name appears onsaid list furnished tothelicensing authority from
the Collector-Treasurer with respect toany activity, event ormatter which isthe subject ofsuch
license or permit and which activity iscarried out orexercised oristobe carried out orexercised
onorabout the real estate owned byany party whose name appears onsaid listfurnished tothe
licensing authority from the Collector-Treasurer; provided, however, that written notice isgiven
tothe party and the Collector-Treasurer, asrequired byapplicable provisions of the law, and the
party isgiven ahearing, tobeheld not earlier than fourteen days after said notice. Said list shall
beprima facie evidence for denial, revocation orsuspension ofsaid license orpermit toany
party. The Collector-Treasurer shall have the right tointervene inany hearing conducted with
respect tosuch license denial, revocation orsuspension. Any findings made bythe licensing
authority with respect tosuch license denial, revocation orsuspension shall bemade only forthe
purposes ofsuch proceeding and shall not berelevant toorintroduced inany other proceeding at
law, except for anyappeal from anysuch denial, revocation orsuspension. Any license orpermit
denied, suspended orrevoked under this section shall not bereissued orrenewed until the
license authority receives acertificate issued bythe Collector-Treasurer that the party isingood
standing with respect toany alllocal taxes, fees, assessments, betterments orother municipal
charges, payable tothe municipality asofthe date ofissuance ofsaid certificate.
8-13
Inserted underarticle14,ATM1992.
8-13b
Asamendedunderarticle21,ATMMay16,1994.
8-13a
Inserted underarticle29,ATMMay14,1997.
68 –Source page 69
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
c) Any party shall begiven anopportunity toenter into apayment agreement, thereby allowing the
licensing authority toissue acertificate indicating said limitations tothelicense orpermit and the
validity of said license shall be conditioned upon the satisfactory compliance with said
agreement. Failure tocomply with said agreement shall begrounds for the suspension or
revocation ofsaid license orpermit; provided, however, that the holder begiven notice and a
hearing asrequired byapplicable provisions oflaw.
d) The Board ofSelectmen may waive such denial, suspension orrevocation ifitfinds that there isno
direct orindirect business interest by theproperty owner, itsofficers orstockholders, ifany, or
members ofhis orher immediate family, asdefined insection one ofchapter two hundred sixty-
eight inthe business or activity conducted inoronsaid property.
This section shall notapply tothefollowing licenses and permits: open burning; section thirteen
of chapter forty-eight; bicycle permits; section eleven Aofchapter eighty-five; sales ofarticles for
charitable purposes, section thirty-three ofchapter one hundred and one; children work permits, section
sixty-nine ofchapter one hundred and forty- nine; clubs, associations dispensing food orbeverage
licenses, section twenty-one Eofchapter one hundred forty-nine; dog licenses, section one hundred and
thirty-seven ofchapter one hundred and forty; fishing, hunting, trapping license, section twelve ofchapter
one hundred and thirty-one; marriage licenses, section twenty-eight ofchapter two hundred and seven;
and theatrical events, public exhibition permits, section one hundred and eighty-one ofchapter one
hundred and forty, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the General By-laws be amended by deleting Section 13 of Article VIII and
inserting in place thereof anew Section 13 as set forth in the Warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted tosupport this article, which will amend Article VIII,
Section 13of theTown By-laws consistent with changes to state law. This By-law establishes aprocedure
fordenial or revocation oflicenses orpermits ifTown taxes orother fees are not paid inatimely manner.
This Town By-lawisauthorized byGeneral Laws chapter 40, section 53, which sets forth theprovisions
that must beincluded inthe By-law. The Municipal Modernization Act changed certain provisions ofthe
state law, and the by-lawmust beupdated tobeconsistent with these changes.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
69 –Source page 70
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE34
VOTE TO AMEND WETLANDS PROTECTION BY-LAW
Article34To see ifthe Town will vote to amend General By-laws Article XV, Wetlands Protection
By-law, asfollows:
1.
By inserting the following language into Section 3.Exceptions between the first and second
paragraphs asanew second paragraph:
The permit and application required bythis Wetlands Protection By-law shall not berequired for
vista pruning, provided the activity occurs more than 50feet from the mean annual high water
line within aRiverfront Area orfrom Bordering Vegetated Wetland, whichever isfarther, orfor
vegetation cutting for public safety limited tothe removal ofdiseased ordamaged trees or
branches that pose animmediate and substantial threat”. (Pruning oflandscape areas isnot
subject tojurisdiction under this Article XV).
2.Byinserting the following language (shown inbold) into Section 5.Notice and Hearings:
Any person filing anapplication orrequest fordetermination with the Commission atthe same
time shall give written notice thereof, bycertified mail, certificates of mailing, orhand
delivery…”
Ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen for the Conservation Commission
MOVED: That the General By-laws, Article XV, Wetlands Protection By-law, be amended
as follows:
1. By inserting the following language into Section 3.Exceptions between the first and
second paragraphs as anew second paragraph:
The permit and application required bythis Wetlands Protection By-law shall not be
required for vista pruning, provided the activity occurs more than 50 feet from the
mean annual high water line within aRiverfront Area or from Bordering Vegetated
Wetland, whichever is farther, or for vegetation cutting for public safety limited to the
removal ofdiseased or damaged trees or branches that pose an immediate and
substantial threat”. (Pruning of landscape areas isnot subject to jurisdiction under this
Article XV).
2. By inserting the following language ( shown in bold) into Section 5.Notice and
Hearings:
Any person filing an application or request for determination with the Commission at
the same time shall give written notice thereof, by certified mail, certificates of
mailing, or hand delivery…”
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 9-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted to support this Article, which provides some language
updates tothe Town’sWetlands Protection By-law. The Conservation Commission currently has
jurisdiction over the first one hundred feet that border awetland. Before aland owner can remove any
vegetation from this area, the land owner currently must submit aRequest for Determination of
Applicability to the Conservation Commission. This Article will allow land owners toremove diseased or
damaged trees that are more than 50feet, but less than 100 feet, away from aWetland without having to
fileaRequest forDetermination ofApplicability. The Article also allows anyone mailing notices for the
Commission to dosousing certificates ofmailing ifthey choose, asopposed to using certified mail, which
isaless costly way tosend the notices.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
70 –Source page 71
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE35
VOTE TO AUTHORIZE THE LEASING OF THE TILDEN HOUSE
Article 35 Tosee ifthe Town willvote totransfer tothe Board ofSelectmen thecare and custody
ofthe building known asthe Tilden House pursuant toG.L.c.40, section 15A, asapproved bythe
Conservation Commission and the Historical Commission, forthe purposes ofleasing the Tilden House; to
authorize the Board ofSelectmen, asapproved bythe Conservation Commission and the Historical
Commission, tolease theTilden House and land related thereto for aterm not toexceed thirty (30) years
forany municipal purpose, including but not limited tofor the preservation, rehabilitation, reconstruction
and restoration ofthe Tilden House and other historical orrecreational purposes, allonterms and
conditions determined bythe Board ofSelectmen tobe inthe best interest oftheTown, provided that
upon theexpiration ortermination bytheBoard ofSelectmen ofsuch lease, the care and custody ofthe
Tilden House and land related thereto shall automatically revert tothe full care, custody, management
and control oftheConservation Commission without need forany further Town Meeting vote; toauthorize
the Board ofSelectmen toundertake any actions deemed bythe Board ofSelectmen tobenecessary to
effectuate the purposes ofthis article, including but not limited totorequest Town representatives inthe
General Court tofilewith the General Court ahome rule petition for the enactment oflegislation asmay
benecessary to confirm Town authority tolease the Tilden House and any land related thereto under
Article 97of theAmendments tothe Constitution of the Commonwealth ofMassachusetts; toauthorize
the General Court, with approval bythe Board ofSelectmen, tomake constructive changes inlanguage as
may benecessary oradvisable towards perfecting the intent ofthe legislation tosecure passage; orto
take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen for the Historical Commission and the Conservation Commission
MOVED: That the care and custody of the building known as the Tilden House be
transferred to the Board of Selectmen pursuant toG.L.c.40, section 15A, as approved by the
Conservation Commission and the Historical Commission, for the purposes ofleasing the Tilden
House;
that the Board ofSelectmen, as approved by the Conservation Commission and the Historical
Commission, be authorized tolease the Tilden House and land related thereto for aterm not to
exceed thirty (30) years for any municipal purpose, including but not limited tofor the
preservation, rehabilitation, reconstruction and restoration ofthe Tilden House and other
historical or recreational purposes, all on terms and conditions determined by the Board of
Selectmen to be in the best interest of the Town, provided that upon the expiration or
termination by the Board of Selectmen of such lease, the care and custody of the Tilden House
and land related thereto shall automatically revert tothe full care, custody, management and
control of the Conservation Commission without need for any further Town Meeting vote;
that the Board of Selectmen be authorized to undertake any actions deemed by the Board of
Selectmen to be necessary to effectuate the purposes of this article, including but not limited
to to request Town representatives in the General Court to file with the General Court ahome
rule petition for the enactment of legislation as may be necessary toconfirm Town authority to
lease the Tilden House and any land related thereto under Article 97of the Amendments to the
Constitution ofthe Commonwealth of Massachusetts;
and that the General Court beauthorized, with approval by the Board of Selectmen, to make
constructive changes in language as may be necessary or advisable towards perfecting the
intent of the legislation to secure passage.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports Article 35. This article will transfer custody ofthe
Tilden House tothe Board of Selectmen sothat the Board may lease the property toahighly qualified
organization tocomplete the complex renovations tothis historic building. The 2015 Annual Town
Meeting appropriated Community Preservation Act funds toward the completion ofPhase Iof the
renovations. Phase Iisexpected toinclude certain structural repairs tothe building. Astudy of the
building has been completed aspart of the Phase Iwork. The Conservation Commission, which currently
has custody and control ofthe building, supports this article, asdoes the Historical Commission.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
71 –Source page 72
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE36
RETIRED POLICE OFFICERS
Article 36 ToseeiftheTown will vote toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen topetition the General
Court forthe special legislation set forth below; provided, however, that the General Court may with the
approval ofthe Board of Selectmen, make constructive changes inlanguage asmay benecessary or
advisable towards perfecting the intent ofthis legislation inorder tosecure passage;
AnAct Relative tothe Appointment ofRetired Police Officers inthe Town ofCanton.
Section 1. ThePolice Chief ofCanton may appoint, ashedeems necessary, retired Canton police
officers asspecial police officers for the purpose ofperforming police details orany police duties arising
therefrom or during the course of police detail work, regardless ofwhether ornot related tothe detail
work. The retired police officers must have been regular Canton police officers and retired based upon
superannuation. The special police officers shall be subject tothe same maximum age restriction as
applied toregular police officers under chapter 32ofthe General Laws. Aspecial police officer must pass a
medical examination, byaphysician orother certified professional chosen bythe Town, todetermine that
theretired police officer iscapable ofperforming the essential duties ofaspecial police officer, the cost of
which medical examination shall beborne bythe special police officer, prior toperforming police details.
Section 2. Special police officers appointed under thisAct shall not besubject tochapter 31of
the General Laws ortosection 99A ofchapter 41 oftheGeneral Laws.
Section 3. Special police officers shall, when performing the duties under section 1,have the
same power tomake arrests and perform other police functions asdoregular police officers ofthe Town
ofCanton.
Section 4. Special police officers shall beappointed for anindefinite term, subject to removal by
the Police Chief with approval ofthe Board ofSelectmen atany time with 14days written notice. Upon
request, the Police Chief shall provide the reasons forremoval inwriting.
Section 5. Special police officers shall also besubject tothe rules and regulations, policies and
procedures and requirements ofthe Chief ofPolice ofthe Town of Canton, including restrictions onthe
type ofdetail assignments, requirements regarding medical examinations todetermine continuing
capability toperform the duties ofaspecial police officer, requirements fortraining, requirements for
firearms licensing and qualifications and requirements regarding uniforms and equipment. Special police
officers shall not besubject tosection 96B ofchapter 41ofthe General Laws.
Section 6. Special police officers shall besworn before the Town Clerk ofthe Town ofCanton who
shall keep arecord ofallsuch appointments.
Section 7. Special police officers appointed under this Act shall be subject tosection 100 and
section 111F ofchapter 41oftheGeneral Laws. The amount payable under said section 111F ofsaid
chapter 41shall be calculated byaveraging the amount earned over the prior 52weeks asaspecial police
officer working police details, oraveraged over such lesser period oftime for any officer designated asa
special police officer less than 52weeks prior tothe incapacity. Inno event shall payment under said
section 111F ofsaid chapter 41exceed, inany calendar year, thelimitation onearning contained in
paragraph (b)ofsection 91ofchapter 32ofthe General Laws. Payment under said section 111F ofsaid
chapter 41shall terminate when aspecial police officer reaches theage of70. Inthe event theage
limitation applicable toregular police officers serving the Town isincreased from the current 65 years of
age, the termination ofbenefits under said section 111F ofsaid chapter 41, asprovided herein tospecial
police officers, shall terminate atsuch ahigher age limit, but innoevent shall thebenefits extend beyond
theage of 70for any special police officer. Special police officers appointed under this act shall not be
subject tosection 85H ofsaid chapter 32, nor eligible for anybenefits pursuant thereto.
Section 8. Appointment asaspecial police officer shall entitle any individual appointed assuch to
assignment toany detail.
Section 9. Retired Canton police officers, serving asspecial police officers under this Actshall be
subject tothe limitations onhours worked and onpayments toretired town employees under paragraph
b)ofsection 91ofchapter 32ofthe General Laws.
Section 10. This Actshall take effect upon itspassage;
ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
72 –Source page 73
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
MOVED: That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to petition the General Court for
special legislation concerning An Act Relative to the Appointment of Retired Police Officers in
the Town of Canton, asset forth in the Warrant, provided that the General Court, with the
approval of the Board of Selectmen, may make constructive changes in language as may be
necessary or advisable toward perfecting such special legislation in order to secure passage.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted unanimous support toseek special legislation toallow the
Town to hire retired Canton police officers upto the age of70for private details. The Town currently
hires retired officers uptothe age of65toforspecial details such astraffic duty. Other area towns have
increased the age forretired police officers towork special details toage 70. Itshould benoted that there
are still restrictions inplace related to the number ofhours aretired police officer can work yearly.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE37
VOTE TO AMEND ARTICLE 2,SECTION 1OF THE GENERAL BY-LAWS (ANNUAL TOWN ELECTION,
TIME OF)
Article 37 Replace Article 2,Section 1ofthe Canton General By-Laws (2015 edition) with:
The Annual Town Meeting forthe election ofofficers and such other matters asmay bevoted onthe
official ballot, shall beheld over atwo-week period, onthe third and fourth weeks ofMarch, atTown Hall
orsome other location designated bythe Selectmen, during the normal business hours of the Town Clerk.
Bruce Rohr and 16 others
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 37 as printed in the warrant be indefinitely
postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 4-1-0
MAJORITY DISCUSSION: This article would change the By-law tomove Town elections from
April toMarch and toextend the period of voting from asingle day to2weeks, inthe interest of
increasing voter participation inTown elections. While that goal islaudable, amajority ofthe Finance
Committee felt there are alarge number ofunanswered questions about the mechanics ofholding the
election over atwo-week period and also inestimating the possible financial impact.
MINORITY DICUSSION: One member ofthe Finance Committee voted tosupport this Article.
This member participated inthe early voting program during the Presidential election and thought the
process was great. This member believes that ifthe Town supports this Article, then itwould allow the
Town to receive some more guidance from theState astohow itmight bepossible toallow early voting
forlocal elections. This member thinks that ifvoting were allowed over atwo week period, then the Town
would have agreater turnout for local elections, and believes that anytime more voters participate inan
election, itisbetter for the Town.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
73 –Source page 74
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE38
AMEND ZONING BY-LAWS SECTION 8.1.5 “PROCEDURES” ACCESSORY APARTMENT
Article38To see ifthe Town will vote to amend Section 8.1.5, “Procedures” of the Zoning By-Laws
bydeleting initsentirety the second sentence ofSection 8.1.5.3 and substituting initsplace the
following:
Said permit shall beautomatically renewed forasubsequent three year term unless the Zoning Board of
Appeals determines before the end ofany said term that the permit should bereviewed bythe Board and
bythe Building Commissioner. Ifafter said review the Board determines that there may beviolations of
the terms of the permit, the Board shall hold ahearing pursuant toM.G.L.c.40A, s.11. Ifafter said
hearing the Board determines that there have been violations the Board may amend the permit toaddress
the violations, rescind the permit orrecommend that the Building Commissioner take other enforcement
action. The permit holder shall have aright ofappeal pursuant toM.G.L.c.40A, s.17”; ortotake any
other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That Section 8.1.5, “ Procedures” of the Zoning By-Laws be amended by
deleting in its entirety the second sentence of Section 8.1.5.3and substituting in its place the
following:
Said permit shall be automatically renewed for asubsequent three year term unless the
Zoning Board of Appeals determines before the end of any said term that the permit should be
reviewed by the Board and by the Building Commissioner. If after said review the Board
determines that there may be violations of the terms of the permit, the Board shall hold a
hearing pursuant to M.G.L.c.40A, s.11. If after said hearing the Board determines that there
have been violations the Board may amend the permit to address the violations, rescind the
permit or recommend that the Building Commissioner take other enforcement action. The
permit holder shall have aright of appeal pursuant toM.G.L.c.40A, s.17”.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 4-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: The Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the Planning
Board toTown Meeting for Article 38 as written inthe warrant be adopted.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-1-0
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: Accessory Apartments will beautomatically renewed for a
three year period oftime unless ZBA requires areview ofthe permit.
MAJORITY FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: With a6-1-0vote, the majority ofthe
Finance Committee supports the Planning Board motion. The impact isdeeming permits for Accessory
Apartments to beautomatically renewed unless the Zoning Board ofAppeals (ZBA) has reason tobelieve
that aparticular permit requires further review and administrative action. An Accessory Apartment
situation generally involves members ofthe same family within aparticular dwelling. This motion is
intended toremove administrative burden from both the permit-holders/residents and the ZBA.
MINORITY FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The minority felt that the language is
confusing and will lead tomore administrative burden onthe Town and uncertainty astothe status of
permits.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
74 –Source page 75
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE39
AMEND ZONING BY-LAWS SECTION 10.5.14 “LAPSE”
Article39To see ifthe Town will vote to amend Zoning By-Laws Section 10.5.14 “Lapse” by
deleting the words “one (1)year” and substituting intheir place the words “two (2)years;”
ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That Section 10.5.14 “Lapse” of the Zoning By-Laws be amended by deleting
the words “one (1) year” and substituting in their place the words “two (2) years.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 3-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: The Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the Planning
Board toTown Meeting for Article 39 as written inthe warrant be adopted.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: Expiration date ofaSite Plan shall increase totwo years after
approval and beinline with Special Permits. Currently Site Plan Approval expires after one year from a
decision date.
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: With a7-0-0vote, the Finance Committee supports the
Planning Board motion, which isconsidered a “housekeeping” item. The new wording oftheZoning By-
Law (10.5.14), regarding Site Plans review byZBA of certain buildings, structures, and impervious
surfaces, will beasfollows:
10.5.14 Lapse. Site plan approval shall lapse after two (2)years from the grant thereof ifa
substantial usethereof hasnot sooner commenced except forgood cause. Such approval may,
forgood cause, beextended inwriting bythe Board upon the written request ofthe applicant.
This Article should bebeneficial toboth the Town andthose required tohave asite plan, asitisitextends
thetime (from 1to2years) forallowed work under officially endorsed siteplans tobethesame period of
time allowed for work under special permits and willallow for greater flexibility for those completing work
covered bythe plans.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE40
VOTE TO ACCEPT CEDARCREST ROAD AS ATOWN WAY
Article 40 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toaccept Cedarcrest Road asaTown way, asrecommended
bythe Planning Board and laid out bythe Board ofSelectmen pursuant toG.L.c.41 and c.82; to
authorize the Board ofSelectmen toacquire bypurchase, gift oreminent domain such land and
easements for the creation, maintenance and operation ofapublic way, including but not limited to
easements for access, grading, drainage, sloping, construction and utilities, inallorany portions ofsuch
way and the parcels listed below; toseeifthe Town willvote toappropriate, borrow pursuant toany
applicable statute ortransfer from available funds, asum ofmoney for such purposes; and further to
authorize the Board ofSelectmen and Town officers totake any and allrelated actions necessary or
appropriate tocarry out the purposes ofthis article; ortotake any other action related thereto.
75 –Source page 76
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
Property Address Town Assessor ID
75 Cedarcrest Road Map 19, Parcel 23
80 Cedarcrest Road Map 19, Parcel 15
90 Cedarcrest Road Map 19, Parcel 16
100 Cedarcrest Road Map 19, Parcel 18
Drainage/unbuildable Lots
no house addresses) Map 19, Parcel 4
Map 19, Parcel 20
Map 31, Parcel 26
Planning Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 40 as printed in the warrant be indefinitely
postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: Articles for Street Acceptance include Cedarcrest Road,
Beatrice Way, and New Boston Drive. Cedarcrest Road and Beatrice Way are not ready foracceptance at
this time. New Boston Drive will need toresolve easement questions and bring punch list items up to
Town Standards prior toacceptance and show the easement onthe acceptance plans prior tothe Board of
Selectmen’sPublic Hearing for Acceptance.
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Town’s Engineering Department hasreported thestreet
isnot insatisfactory condition tobeaccepted bythe Town. There are anumber of “punch list” items that
need toberesolved prior toacceptance.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE41
VOTE TO ACCEPT BEATRICE WAY AS ATOWN WAY
Article 41 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toaccept Beatrice Way asaTown way, asrecommended by
the Planning Board and laid out bythe Board ofSelectmen pursuant to G. L.c.41 and c.82; toauthorize
the Board ofSelectmen toacquire bypurchase, gift oreminent domain such land and easements for the
creation, maintenance and operation ofapublic way, including but not limited toeasements for access,
grading, drainage, sloping, construction and utilities, in allorany portions ofsuch way and the parcels
listed below; tosee ifthe Town will vote toappropriate, borrow pursuant toany applicable statute or
transfer from available funds, asum ofmoney for such purposes; and further toauthorize the Board of
Selectmen and Town officers to take any and allrelated actions necessary orappropriate tocarry out the
purposes ofthis article; ortotake any other action related thereto.
Property Address Town Assessor ID
10 Beatrice Way Map 19, Parcel 19
15 Beatrice Way Map 19, Parcel 22
20 Beatrice Way Map 19, Parcel 21
30 Beatrice Way Map 31, Parcel 20
40 Beatrice Way Map 31, Parcel 27
50 Beatrice Way Map 31, Parcel 28
Ortake any other action related thereto.
Planning Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 41 as printed in the warrant be indefinitely
postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
76 –Source page 77
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: Articles for Street Acceptance include Cedarcrest Road,
Beatrice Way, and New Boston Drive. Cedarcrest Road and Beatrice Way are not ready foracceptance at
this time. New Boston Drive will need toresolve easement questions and bring punch list items upto
Town Standards prior toacceptance and show the easement onthe acceptance plans prior tothe Board of
Selectmen’sPublic Hearing for Acceptance.
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Town’s Engineering Department hasreported thestreet
isnot insatisfactory condition tobeaccepted bythe Town. There are anumber of “punch list” items that
need toberesolved prior toacceptance.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE42
VOTE TO ACCEPT NEW BOSTON DRIVE AS ATOWN WAY
Article 42 To see ifthe Town will vote toaccept New Boston Drive asaTown way, as
recommended bythe Planning Board and laidout bythe Board ofSelectmen pursuant toG. L.c.41and
c.82; toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen toacquire bypurchase, gift oreminent domain such land and
easements for the creation, maintenance and operation ofapublic way, including but not limited to
easements for access, grading, drainage, sloping, construction and utilities, inallorany portions ofsuch
way and the parcels listed below; toseeifthe Town willvote toappropriate, borrow pursuant toany
applicable statute ortransfer from available funds, asum ofmoney for such purposes; and further to
authorize the Board ofSelectmen and Town officers totake any and allrelated actions necessary or
appropriate tocarry out the purposes ofthis article; ortotake any other action related thereto.
Property Address Town Assessor ID
1New Boston Drive Map 89, Parcel 29
100 New Boston Drive Map 74, Parcel 17
200 New Boston Drive Map 74, Parcel 16
Planning Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 42 as printed in the warrant be indefinitely
postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: Articles for Street Acceptance include Cedarcrest Road,
Beatrice Way, and New Boston Drive. Cedarcrest Road and Beatrice Way are not ready foracceptance at
this time. New Boston Drive will need toresolve easement questions and bring punch list items upto
Town Standards prior toacceptance and show the easement onthe acceptance plans prior tothe Board of
Selectmen’sPublic Hearing for Acceptance.
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Town’s Engineering Department hasreported thestreet
isnot insatisfactory condition tobeaccepted bythe Town. There are anumber of “punch list” items that
need toberesolved prior toacceptance. Ifthese items areresolved prior toTown Meeting anamended
motion may beoffered atTown Meeting.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
77 –Source page 78
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE43
AMEND ZONING BYLAWS SECTION 10.7.14 CCDRB COMPOSITION
Article 43 Tosee Ifthe Town will vote toamend the Zoning By-laws bydeleting Section 10.7.14.3
and replacing itwith the following:
3.One (1)person recommended bythe Canton Association ofBusiness and Industry.
ortotake any other action related thereto.
Planning Board
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 43 as printed in the warrant be indefinitely
postponed.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 3-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: The Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the Planning
Board toTown Meeting for Article 43 toindefinitely postpone be adopted.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: Withdrawn asCanton Downtown Business Association will be
re-forming and appointing arepresentative tothe CCDRB.
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: With a7-0-0vote, the Finance Committee supports the
Planning Board decision toIndefinitely Postpone this Article.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE44
AMEND GENERAL BY-LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE XXIII (ADOPTION OF STRETCH ENERGY CODE)
Article 44 Tosee ifthe Town will vote to amend the Town ofCanton General By-laws to add anew
Article XXIII, Stretch Energy Code, asset forth below, toadopt the “Stretch Energy Code” for thepurpose
ofregulating the design and construction ofbuildings forthe effective use ofenergy, pursuant toAppendix
115.AA ofthe Massachusetts Building Code, 780 CMR, including future editions, amendments and
modifications, or totake any other action related thereto.
ARTICLE XXIII
ADOPTION OF STRETCH ENERGY CODE
Section 1Definitions
The terms below shall have the following meanings forthe purposes ofthis Article XXIII.
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) - The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) isa
building energy code created bythe International Code Council. Itisamodel code adopted by many state
and municipal governments inthe United States forthe establishment ofminimum design and
construction requirements for energy efficiency, and isupdated onathree-year cycle. The baseline energy
conservation requirements ofthe MA State Building Code are the IECC with Massachusetts amendments,
asapproved by the Board ofBuilding Regulations andStandards.
Stretch Energy Code - Codified bythe Board of Building Regulations and Standards as780 CMR Appendix
115.AA ofthe 8th edition Massachusetts Building Code, the Stretch Energy Code isanappendix tothe
78 –Source page 79
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
Massachusetts Building Code, based onfurther amendments tothe International Energy Conservation
Code (IECC) toimprove the energy efficiency ofbuildings built tothis Code.
Section 2Purpose
The purpose of780 CMR 115.AAistoprovide amore energy efficient alternative tothe Base Energy Code
applicable tothe relevant sections ofthe Building Code forboth new construction and existing buildings.
Section 3Applicability
The Stretch Code applies toresidential and commercial buildings. Buildings not included inthis scope
shall comply with 780 CMR 13, 34, 51, asapplicable.
Section 4Stretch Code
The Stretch Code, ascodified bythe Board ofBuilding Regulations and Standards as780 CMR Appendix
115.AA, including any future editions, amendments ormodifications, isherein incorporated byreference
into these General Bylaws, Article XXIII.
Section 5Enforcement
The Stretch Code isenforceable bythe Building Commissioner.
Planning Board
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Town of Canton General By-Laws be amended by adding anew Article
XXIII, Stretch Energy Code, as set forth in the warrant, to adopt the “Stretch Energy Code” for
the purpose of regulating the design and construction of buildings for the effective use of
energy, pursuant to Appendix 115.AA of the Massachusetts Building Code, 780 CMR, including
future editions, amendments and modifications.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 5-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: The Finance Committee recommends that that motion presented by the
Planning Board to Town Meeting for Article 44 as written in the warrant beadopted.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: Adopting the Stretch Energy Code and adding amending the
Manufacturing and Scientific orResearch Laboratory definitions toinclude “renewable and alternative
energy companies” both articles are critical for the town inorder toobtain the Green Communities
designation which qualifies theMunicipal and School Departments for grants. These articles aresupported
bynumerous town departments and committees including the DPW, Building department, Police and Fire
departments, the Town Administrator, Board ofSelectmen, Planning Board, and School Committee.
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted tosupport this Article after
hearing apresentation from our Town Planner. TheTown Planner explained that byadopting theStretch
Energy Code, going forward the Town will berequiring more energy-efficient designs for new construction
developed inTown, asthe Stretch Energy Code provides energy-efficient guidelines for more “green”
development. The Town Planner also explained that current regulations for new construction have evolved
tobecome very similar tothe Stretch Energy Code; however, there are certain designations and programs
that will beavailable tothe Town inthe future only ifithas adopted the Stretch Energy Code. After
hearing this presentation, the Finance Committee voted tosupport this Article.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
79 –Source page 80
ANNUALTOWNMEETINGMAY8,2017
ARTICLE45
VOTE TO AMEND ZONING BY-LAWS BY DELETING SECTION 4.2.1 (BUILD FACTOR)
Article 45 Tosee ifthe Town will vote to amend the Zoning By-laws:
1. Bydeleting Section 4.2.1 Build Factor:
4.2.1 Build Factor. InallResidential Districts, nobuilding except aone-story building ofaccessory use,
shall beconstructed onalotwhich has aBuild Factor ofmore than 23.00. The purpose oftheBuild Factor
istolimits the degree towhich alotmay have anirregular orodd shape. The Build Factor isaratio of lot
perimeter tolotarea and iscalculated according tothe following formula:
LotPerimeter (Squared) = Build Factor
Actual Lot Area
And
2.Byrenumbering Sections 4.2.2,4.2.3,4.2.4,4.2.5,4.2.6 and 4.2.7 appropriately.
Ortotake any other action related thereto.
Planning Board
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning By-Laws be amended by deleting Section 4.2.1,Build Factor
and by renumbering Sections 4.2.2,4.2.3,4.2.4,4.2.5,4.2.6and 4.2.7appropriately.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 3-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: The Finance Committee recommends that that motion presented by the
Planning Board to Town Meeting for Article 45 as written in the warrant beadopted.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: Deletes the Section 4.2.1 Build Factor asArticle 35from 2016
ATM will address the issues initsplace.
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: With a7-0-0vote, the Finance Committee supports the
Planning Board motion, which eliminates language about Build Factors inResidential Districts. The
Planning Board explained that the language tobedeleted isnolonger needed due toadoption ofthe 2016
Pork Chop Lot” By-Law.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
80 –