Town Meeting Offers Chance to Influence Agenda (Stoneham Sun, April 30, 2008)

by: Randy Perillo

Thu May 01, 2008 at 13:43:08 PM EDT

It's Town Meeting time. The annual assembly of Stoneham voters at Town Hall (35 Central Street) begins on Monday, May 5 at 7:30 p.m. With nearly forty ideas for debate and decision on the agenda, the meeting will likely adjourn on Monday night and reconvene on Thursday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m.


The Town of Stoneham invites all its registered voters to attend the meeting and listen or participate in discussions. The Warrant Articles address a varied group of subjects. Article 15 asks for a simple change in Town Meeting's start time to 7:00 p.m. Article 33 addresses the Town's $59 million budget.


Citizen Mary Doyle, 6 Myrtle Street, and The Friends of the Stoneham Public Library, a volunteer, non-profit organization that supports and advocates for the Stoneham Public Library (SPL), sponsor Article 6. The article, as written, asks Town Meeting voters to appropriate "the sum of $350,000 to meet the Municipal Appropriation Requirement for the library's state certification."


Since the original submission, the Legislature announced a resolution to local aid that allows Stoneham to maintain its $344,000 in revenue generated by the Massachusetts State Lottery. The Town then added $100,000 to the SPL budget, likely decreasing the amount the Friends of SPL would request at Town Meeting. However, SPL would still fall short of funding required to maintain state certification. SPL Director Mary Todd expects the Friends of SPL to ask Town Meeting voters to increase the library's budget with funds from the Town's stabilization account, a savings account that allows the Town to address emergency needs. The law requires a two-thirds majority to approve any transfer of funds out of the stabilization account.


"Nobody at the library has ever been comfortable with the idea of taking money away from someone else's budget," says Todd. "I don't think that's the correct way to operate and I wouldn't want that to happen to [the library's budget]... We're hoping that we will have enough support from the community that we'll be able to get that two-thirds vote."


Citizen Charles F. Houghton, 15 Kimball Drive, sponsors Article 8. Houghton, an attorney who often represents Stoneham businesses and residents before Town boards and commissions, proposes that the Town change a zoning by-law to allow residents who own a swimming pool to own one accessory building (shed, cabana, etc.) that does not exceed 250 square feet.


Planning Board Vice Chairman Kevin Dolan says the proposal could end the disagreement about the allowable number of accessory buildings permitted on one property. The current by-law, as Dolan says, allows an accessory building up to 130 square feet, but some interpret the by-law to permit an unlimited amount of sheds or cabanas as long as no one building exceeds the 130 square foot limit.


"At the public hearing, we had substantial input from various residents," says Dolan. "The consensus of the board at the public hearing was that we should support an article that would limit the number of sheds allowed in backyards, limit the size of those sheds, and require those sheds to be farther from the lot lines than is currently allowed."


The Planning Board ultimately determined that the best course of action is to postpone this article and to present a new one that better reflects citizens' input at the public hearing. Some residents vehemently argued that the article would allow swimming pool owners to have an unfair advantage over those without a pool. Despite the comments of the Planning Board and those in opposition, Attorney Houghton could still decide to present Article 8 before Town Meeting voters. If so, those of us in attendance will make the final decision.


The Board of Selectmen proposes Article 27. This article asks Town Meeting voters to appropriate $155,000 to fund repair or replacement of ice rink boards and glass at Stoneham Arena. The article calls for the Town Treasurer to be "authorized to borrow up to $155,000 under Chapter 44 of Mass. General Laws" to fund the project.


Rink Manager Lou Chiulli says, "These boards are basically done. They're 34-years old. Before they cause serious injury and liability [to the Town], they need to be replaced."


The Board of Selectmen also proposes a somewhat surprising article related to Stoneham Arena, "special" Town Meeting Article 5 (Town Meeting Article 5 relates to Whip Hill Park). There is a submission deadline for Town Meeting articles. The Board of Selectmen, however, may call a "special" Town Meeting, which extends the deadline and allows more proposals to come to a vote before the assembly.


"Special" Town Meeting Article 5 asks "to see if the Town will vote to lease the Stoneham Arena... for a period of up to ten years... and to authorize the Town Administrator to take any action necessary to carry out this vote."


At the September 11, 2007 Board of Selectmen's meeting, an overflow crowd of Stoneham hockey supporters visited Town Hall to discuss a long-term lease idea. After spirited debate, the Board voted unanimously to discontinue discussions of any form of change to the current management program.


At that meeting more than seven months ago, Selectman Paul Rotondi said, "I don't want to sell the arena, but the Town should not be in business."


There are many articles of interest on the agenda for the May 5 (and May 8) meeting. Articles 9 and 10 relate to the Commonwealth's Group Insurance Commission (GIC) and how Stoneham could ask the Legislature for a special exemption to join the GIC without negotiating with a Public Employee Commission. Article 17 seeks to lease the Stoneham Senior Center to a non-profit organization for up to ten years. Stoneham Council on Aging Director Jane Lavender had nothing but positive comments about the proposal when she addressed the Board of Selectmen in March. "Special" Article 4 proposes to allow the Town Administrator to lease a portion of Stoneham Fire Department to a wireless communications provider, likely to construct an antenna similar to those at Saint Patrick Parish and other buildings with steeples.


Come vote, Stoneham!

4/22 Board of Selectmen mtg. summary

by: Randy Perillo

Wed Apr 23, 2008 at 03:35:03 AM EDT

If you received this message as a forward and would like to become a member of Stoneham United please contact me to get on the direct distribution list. (perillo@rcn.com)

Hello, everyone.

I attended the Board of Selectmen meeting on April 22, 2008. Here are the highlights:

The Board appointed members to the Board of Appeals, Conservation Commission, Council on Aging, Historical Commission, Open Space and Recreation Committee, and Water and Sewer Review Board. The Board offered recommendations to Town Meeting voters on Warrant Articles to appear at Special Town Meeting on May 5 and/or May 8 beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall. The Board approved a site plan for construction of a new building at 380-382 Main Street and a site plan for revitalization at Redstone Plaza. The Board also voted to sign a Development Agreement and Mitigation Covenant for Langwood Commons (at the site of the former Boston Regional Medical Center on Woodland Avenue).

Chairman John DePinto and board members Richard Gregorio, Paul Rotondi, Frank Vallarelli, and Bob Sweeney attended the meeting. Town Administrator David Ragucci and Town Counsel Bill Solomon also attended the meeting. Board Office Manager Muriel Doherty did not attend the meeting.

Appointments:

The Board appointed or re-appointed the following individuals to boards, commissions, councils, and committees:

Board of Appeals:

Jim Juliano (re-appointed to a three-year term)
Harry Sampson (re-appointed to a three-year term)
Raymond Michael Dufour (appointed to a two-year un-expired term)
Timothy Libby (appointed to a one-year associate term)
William Sullivan (appointed to a one-year associate term)

Conservation Commission: (two three-year terms still open)

Jim Juliano, Jr. (re-appointed to a three-year term)

Council on Aging: (one three-year term still open, one two-year un-expired term still open)

Marcia Wengen (re-appointed to a three-year term)
Sarkis Babikian (appointed to a three-year term)

Historical Commission:

Joanne DiMambro (re-appointed to a three-year term)
Joan Quigley (re-appointed to a three-year term)

Open Space and Recreation Committee:

Chris Abreu (re-appointed to a three-year term)
Denise Healy (re-appointed to a three-year term)
Maureen Houghton (re-appointed to a three-year term)
Stephen McDonough (re-appointed to a three-year term)
James Sarno (re-appointed to a three-year term)

Water and Sewer Review Board:

Richard Mangerian (appointed to a three-year term)

Other government organizations seeking to fill open appointments include:

Cultural Council
Scholarship and Educational Fund Committee

Special Town Meeting Warrant Article Recommendations:

The Board voted unanimously to recommend Indefinite Postponement of Special Town Meeting (STM) Article 1. The article called for expansion of the Town Administrator's role in supervising more Town employees. Town Administrator Ragucci said that he and representatives from Town boards, departments, and commissions met and outlined concerns about the supervision of Town employees. The board plans to open a dialogue with those Town leaders to create a "Co-operation Policy" that asks for employees to present weekly progress reports to Ragucci. The Town Administrator would also help the boards, departments and commissions determine the best way to use their resources and achieve their goals.

The board voted unanimously to recommend favorable action on Article 2. This article calls for vendors to obtain permission from the Town before placing newspaper boxes and other "sidewalk furniture" on Stoneham sidewalks.

The board voted unanimously to recommend favorable action on Article 3. This article calls for fines for littering and a more formal approach to educating school students about the problems caused by littering.

The board voted unanimously to recommend favorable action on Article 4. This article calls for the Town and Stoneham Fire Department (SFD) to share revenues generated by an antennae placed inconspicuously (by a wireless vendor) at the top of the SFD tower. The Town (60 percent) and SFD (40 percent) would share revenue (estimated at $20,000 to $40,000) generated from this decision.

The only split decision among STM articles came from the vote on Article 5 regarding Stoneham Arena leasing. Selectmen Vallarelli and Sweeney opposed recommending favorable action for voters at Special Town Meeting (beginning May 5, 7:30 p.m. and likely continuing to May 8, 7:30 p.m.). Gregorio, Rotondi, and DePinto voted to recommend favorable action on this article. The article calls for allowing the Town Administrator to lease Stoneham Arena for a period of up to 10 years with the input and approval of the Board of Selectmen and Stoneham Youth Hockey among other user groups. Sweeney believes the Board of Selectmen should have authority to make the final decision. Town Counsel Bill Solomon added that the Town Administrator should add, in writing, that the Town would make no decision without proper public process. Rotondi noted that the Town does not have a specific lessee in mind at this time. The Board finally voted, 3-2, to recommend favorable action, but added that the Town would hold a public hearing before awarding a lease to any suitor.

The board voted unanimously to recommend favorable action on Article 6, but not without much debate This article calls for use a portion of $20,000, appropriated by Special Town Meeting last October, to fund a feasibility study for a second sheet of ice at Stoneham Arena to be used for a somewhat different purpose: to assess the life-span of the floor under the existing ice sheet at the arena. Ragucci said that research shows the life of such a floor should be about 35 years. The current floor at the arena is approaching that age. His hope is to determine the number of years remaining on the floor's useful life and begin planning to meet the financial challenge of replacing or repairing it. Selectman Sweeney said that in the past the Town had voted to approve a similar study on the feasibility of building a new firehouse, but Sweeney opposed the idea because he believed the study would be obsolete before the Town would decide to move forward. He said he was right in that assessment. In the end, all Board members, including Sweeney, voted to recommend favorable action to Town Meeting voters.

Site plan approval for 380-382 Main St.:

Attorney Stephen Cicatelli presented a proposal to the Board regarding the building that formerly housed Brown's TV, VCR, and Stereo Repair and Main Street Hair Salon for Men. Cicatelli presented an artist's rendition of a brand new building featuring a first floor retail space (undetermined tenant at this time) and two floors of office space.

The owner plans to raze the existing building and build a new one in its place. The new building will have a brick front look to fit in with downtown businesses.

The Board voted 5-0 in favor of the plan.

Site plan approval for Redstone Plaza:

The Board voted 5-0 in favor of a plan to revitalize Redstone Plaza on Main St.

Attorney Cicatelli again made the presentation for the new L.A. Fitness Center, stand alone CVS, and a new addition behind Marshall's. The plan calls for the razing of the former Cherry, Webb, and Touraine, Ground Round, and Eastern Bank.

The plan could also include one to three new restaurants in the plaza. Cicatelli said that he has made presentations before the Conservation Commission and the Planning Board and an approval from the Board of Selectmen is the final step in the process.

Jim Sullivan of L.A. Fitness, in response to a question from Chairman DePinto, estimated the center could be open for business in about 10 months (February 2009).

Langwood Commons (at the former BRMC site):

Town Counsel Solomon said the Board must sign two documents (previously approved by the Board before Selectman Gregorio's election on April 1) regarding the proposed 405 housing units slated for construction at the former BRMC site on Woodland Road. Gregorio reviewed the documents and said he was "fine" with the argument.

Town Administrator Ragucci also discussed some funding amounts that Simpson Housing, Langley Commons, and The Gutierrez Company agreed to provide the Town as payment for a portion of a ladder truck for SFD. The groups will contribute $40,000 toward a vehicle that Ragucci estimates could cost about $400,000.

The new housing units will bring more than $400,000 to the Town in the form of "per unit mitigation amounts" of more than $1,300 per unit for the 304 market rate units. More than 100 units fall under Massachusetts' Chapter 40B low/moderate income housing.

Also in this meeting:

The Board unanimously granted approval for a block party on Bonad Rd. from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on June 21, 2008.

The Board voted to appoint Kevin McLaughlin (as a representative of the Planning Board) to the newly formed Capital Committee.

The Board, acting as Liquor License Authority, unanimously approved a one-day license to Rev. William T. Schmidt of St. Patrick Parish for an event on May 17, 2008.

Selectman Rotondi asked about the possibility of a company building a cell phone tower on land near the cemetery near Broadway. Rotondi said he believed that a prior agreement only allowed for the owners to use it for burial. Town Counsel Bill Solomon, a resident of the area, asked the Board to grant him an exemption under Section 19 of Massachusetts General Laws (as his actions and financial interests would not effect his integrity as he would argue the case on the Town's behalf).  Solomon needs to look at the plan more closely, but he believes that the Town would not allow a cell tower there.

Selectmen DePinto asked Town Counsel Solomon about the latest events regarding Comcast cable TV. Solomon said that Comcast has advertised a hearing for settling its rates for basic cable service and equipment. Solomon said he would appear at the hearing on the Town's behalf.

Town Administrator Ragucci said that Clear Channel has again approached him regarding more billboard advertising in Stoneham. Ragucci asked the Board to have a selectman present at future discussions. Selectman Sweeny volunteered to attend those meetings.

Ragucci also said the Town Common gazebo currently does not offer handicapped access. Through the work of the Rotary Club, Atty. Charles Houghton, and Alan Melkonian, the gazebo will soon have a ramp... and at no cost to taxpayers.

Ragucci reported that the bids for work at Stoneham Fire Dept. (SFD) came in $40,000 lower than the amount of funding the Town received from the state (thanks to the work of Sen. Tisei, Rep. Casey, and Rep. Natale). Look for new paint on the SFD exterior trim, new overhead doors, and new masonry work among other planned improvements at the firehouse.

Ragucci said that the DPW would increase fees for "street opening" and "water connection".

Ragucci meets with the Business Round Table on Thursday to discuss more activities on Town Common. One idea is to conduct a farmer's market on the common in summer months. Ragucci said he hopes the discussions and efforts help to support small businesses in Stoneham.

The Board entered Executive Session (a privately held meeting allowable under law) to discuss matters of litigation.

Thank you for your time,

Randy

Visit  http://www.wickedlocal.com/sto... to read my weekly Stoneham Sun column.
This week: "YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY ATTENDING TOWN MEETING"

Watch the re-broadcast of the monthly Stoneham TV show, "Thinking Stoneham", on Comcast 9, RCN 3, and Verizon 34.
This month: "STONEHAM SPORTS & RECREATION" (airing Wednesday, April 23, 7:30 p.m.)
This month's guests include SHS Athletic Director David Pignone and Stoneham Recreation Director Christine DelRossi.

   Upcoming government meetings:    

FINANCE AND ADVISORY BOARD MEETING: THURSDAY, APRIL 24 at 7:30PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St., Hearing Room

CONSERVATION COMMISSION MEETING: THURSDAY, MAY 1 at 7PM, Whip Hill Manor (off Perkins St.)

SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING: THURSDAY, MAY 1 at 7PM, Stoneham High School, 149 Franklin Street, SHS Library

BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING: MONDAY, MAY 5 at 6PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St., Hearing Room

MAY TOWN MEETING: MONDAY, MAY 5 at 7:30PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St.

MAY TOWN MEETING (Night II): THURSDAY, MAY 8 at 7:30PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St. (if necessary)

PLANNING BOARD MEETING: WEDNESDAY, MAY 21 at 7:30PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St., Hearing Room  

Upcoming community events:    

Posted April 8, 2008:
Wacky Wednesday (Open Craft for ages 4 & up) at Stoneham Public Library:
Wednesday, April 23, at 2:30PM, Stoneham Public Library, 431 Main St., Contact Stoneham Jr. Library at (781) 438-1325 for information.

Posted April 22, 2008:
"Thinking Stoneham" TV show:
Wednesday, April 23, 7:30PM, Stoneham Community Access TV. Former Stoneham selectman Tony Kennedy hosts a local TV show. (Comcast 9, RCN 3, Verizon 34)
Contact Stoneham Community Access at (781) 438-8340 or info@stonehamtv.org for more information.

Posted April 14, 2008:
FREE Household Electronics Recycling Event:
Saturday, April 26, 9AM to 3PM, Lexington High School, 251 Waltham St., Lexington (about a 20 minute drive from Stoneham High School)
Recycle computers, monitors, televisions, LCD panels, printers, computer equipment, stereos, phones, cell phones, VCRs, and other household electronics.
Visit www.metechgroup.com for information.

Posted April 8, 2008:
Pancake Breakfast at St. Patrick Parish:
Sunday, April 27, after 9AM and 10:30AM masses, Lady of Providence Hall, St. Patrick Parish, 71 Central St.
Tickets $4/child, $6/adult. Call Laurie Hayes at (781) 438-1673 for information or advanced ticket purchase.

Stoneham Recreation & Major League Soccer Clinics (ages 3-4 & 5-6):
Weekly Monday sessions begin April 28, 10:30-11:30AM or 12:30-1:30PM, Recreation Park. 5-week program runs through June 2. Cost: $60.
Contact Christine DelRossi (Stoneham Recreation) at cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us

Posted April 8, 2008:
Dessert with Dad Story Time (ages 3-6, siblings welcome) at Stoneham Public Library:
Monday, April 28, from 6:30-7:15PM, Stoneham Public Library, 431 Main St., Contact Stoneham Jr. Library at (781) 438-1325 for information.

Stoneham Recreation Adult Yoga:
Weekly Tuesday sessions begin April 29, 5:45-6:45PM, Stoneham Public Library. 6-week program runs through June 3. Cost: $75.
Contact Christine DelRossi (Stoneham Recreation) at cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us

Stoneham Recreation & Major League Soccer Clinics (ages 3-4 & 5-6):
Weekly Thursday sessions begin May 1, 10:30-11:30AM or 12:30-1:30PM, Recreation Park. 5-week program runs through May 29. Cost: $60.
Contact Christine DelRossi (Stoneham Recreation) at cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us

Posted April 22, 2008:
Boy Scout Troop 513 ANNUAL FREE CAR WASH:
Saturday, May 3, from 9AM to 3PM, Stoneham Middle School, 101 Central St.
Last year the troop washed more than 200 cars.

Posted April 14, 2008:
"Sisters of Swing: The Andrews Sisters Story ":
EXTENDED through Sunday, May 4, Stoneham Theatre, 395 Main St.
Contact the box office for information: (781) 279-2200.

Kids Just Love Crafts (ages 2-4):
Weekly beginning Wednesday, May 7, 10-10:45AM, Recreation Park Field House. Program runs through June 11. Cost: $62.
Contact Christine DelRossi (Stoneham Recreation) at cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us

Posted April 10, 2008:
"Parents In Charge" seminar to prevent online abuse:
Wednesday, May 7, from 7-9PM, Stoneham Middle School Computer Lab.
Registration and $10 fee required.
Contact Stoneham Alliance Against Violence (SAAV) at (781) 438-7228 for registration and information.

Posted April 14, 2008:
Stoneham Youth Basketball Annual Scholarship:
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Friday, May 9.
SYB offers two $1,000 scholarships to graduating high school students who participated in the SYB program for at least three years.
Applicants must submit an essay entitled: "What I Learned from My SYB Experience."
Contact Patrick Boyle at (781) 662-4224 for information.

Posted April 22, 2008:
Stoneham Soccer Club TRAVEL registration for Fall 2008 season:
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Friday, May 9, 11:59PM.
Children born between 8/1/1994 and 12/31/2000 are eligible to play U-10, U-12, and U-14 levels.
Register online at: http://www.stonehamsoccerclub.... Click "REGISTRATION" in the left column.

Posted April 8, 2008:
"Pampering with a Purpose":
Sunday, May 18, from 11:30AM to 3:30PM, Mt. Hood Golf Course, 100 Slayton Rd., Melrose.
Experience the perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon featuring a women's fashion show, music, and a light meal. Tickets $40/person.
Proceeds benefit North Suburban Family Network (service Stoneham and other towns)
Contact NSFN at (781) 662-2722 for information.

Posted April 22, 2008:
Stoneham Garden Club Annual Plant Sale:
Thursday, May 22 from 10AM to 2PM, All Saints Episcopal Church, 79 Central St.

Stoneham Figure Skating Club registration:
Ongoing through May. SFSC is a non-profit, educational, amateur sports organization providing skating instruction
Visit http://www.neicc.org/stoneham/... for details and applications.

Posted April 22, 2008:
Stoneham Soccer Club TOWN registration for Fall 2008 season:
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Sunday, June 1, 11:59PM.
Children born between 9/1/1994 and 8/31/2003 are eligible to play CLINIC, U-8, U-10, U-12, and U-14 levels.
Register online at: http://www.stonehamsoccerclub.... Click "REGISTRATION" in the left column.

"A Wild Affair":
Saturday, June 21, 5:30-9:30PM. Stone Zoo, 149 Pond St.
Tickets: $40 in advance, $50 at the gate. Contact: drogers@zoonewengland.com

Top Secret Science (Grades 1-5):
Monday, June 23 to Friday, June 27, 9AM-3PM. Recreation Park Field House, Cost $180.
Contact Christine DelRossi (Stoneham Recreation) at cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us

Posted April 14, 2008:
Stoneham Girls Basketball School (for girls entering grades 3-9 in September):
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Tuesday, July 1
Monday, July 7 to Thursday, July 10, 8:30am-noon, Stoneham High School.
SHS Girls' Varsity Basketball Coach Angela Billings directs the school.
Tuition: $120. Applications available at www.stonehamyouthbasketball.com
For more information contact Coach Angela Billings at (781) 608-6948.

Athletic Edge Football Clinic (ages 7-12):
Monday, July 14 to Friday, July 18, 8AM-3PM. Recreation Park Field, 4 Dale Ct. Cost is $150 for one child, $275 for two, $300 family cap.
Stoneham residents David Pignone and Chris Yancey coach and supervise the program.
Contact Christine DelRossi (Stoneham Recreation) at cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us

Athletic Edge Football Clinic (ages 12 and older):
Monday, July 21 to Friday, July 25, 8AM-3PM. Recreation Park Field, 4 Dale Ct. Cost is $150 for one child, $275 for two, $300 family cap.
Stoneham residents David Pignone and Chris Yancey coach and supervise the program.
Contact Christine DelRossi (Stoneham Recreation) at cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us

"Flamingo Flocking Fundraiser" sponsored by The Rotary Club of Stoneham:
Ongoing through July 31. A $30 donation places a flock of 10 pink, plastic flamingoes on the yard of a friend, neighbor or family member.
Call (800) 819-4496 or send email to rotaryofstoneham@hotmail.com for information.

Posted April 14, 2008:
Summer Intern Opportunity for Students:
The Jason Lewis for State Representative Campaign seeks high school and college students for a summer intern program.
Contact candidate Jason Lewis at Jason@electjasonlewis.com for information.

Posted April 1, 2008:
English At Large:
Several community organizations (including Stoneham Public Library) plan to work with English At Large (www.englishatlarge.org) to provide English tutoring to adults.
Contact Ben Jacques (bjacq@juno.com) or (781) 438-5596 for more information.

Renee Cutone Benefit Fund:
Ongoing. Please consider a donation to help Stoneham single mother Renee Cutone in her battle with throat cancer.
Contact Mary Celli at (781) 481-5824, Maria Graffeo-Pustizzi (mjgraffeo@yahoo.com) or Jackie Iocco (jackieiocco@yahoo.com).

Edible Arrangements of Woburn supports SMS Jump Up and Go!:
Ongoing. 5 percent of your order can benefit SMS Jump Up and Go! after school programs.
Provide code: "SMS JUG" at Edible Arrangements. Visit 71 Cummings Park, Woburn or call (781) 938-1991.

Become a Spartan Sponsor:
Ongoing (as available). Place a personal or business message banner at the SHS athletic field of your choice.
For information contact spartansponsor@stonehampsf.org or call 781-850-4771. Proceeds benefit Stoneham Public Schools Foundation.

40 years later, Dr. King's legacy lives on (Stoneham Sun, April 2, 2008)

by: Randy Perillo

Thu Apr 03, 2008 at 23:58:52 PM EDT

Gregorio Outlines Financial Background (Stoneham Sun, March 12, 2008)

by: Randy Perillo

Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 22:01:32 PM EDT

Getting to Know George Seibold (Stoneham Sun, March 5, 2008)

by: Randy Perillo

Fri Mar 07, 2008 at 00:32:27 AM EST

(The following paragraph did not appear in the Stoneham Sun)


Representatives Paul Casey, D-Winchester, and Patrick Natale, D-Woburn, are Stoneham's voices in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Seibold commends newcomer Natale's "aggressive" approach to addressing issues that affect Stoneham. The chairman, however, sees Casey as "comfortable" in his position. Seibold claims that the state has shortchanged Stoneham by "millions" of dollars since 2002. He also believes that Casey, serving since 1989, has not been very successful in helping Stoneham get its fair share of state funding, despite having had ample time and opportunity.


(The remainder appeared in the Stoneham Sun.)


In geographic terms, Stoneham is a small town. The town cannot develop one-third of its land as it lies within the boundaries of the Middlesex Fells Reserve. Seibold says that taxpayers would bear a lesser fiscal burden if they would support projects such as those at Pleasant Crossing, Maple Street, and the former Love's Furniture building - all works by Stoneham's Cunningham Construction.  Seibold adds that, ironically, many of the residents who speak out against such development projects are the same people who speak out against losing public services that commercial tax dollars would support.


Massachusetts Department of Revenue data illustrates the impact of commercial and industrial tax revenues. In highly developed Woburn, commercial and industrial properties account for 44 percent of all tax revenues, leaving residents with average single-family tax bills of just $3,401. In residential Winchester, less than 5 percent of tax revenues come from commercial development, so residents pay an average single-family tax bill of $8,173 (nearly 2 1/ 2 times higher than in Woburn). Stoneham collects 15.5 percent of its tax revenues from commercial and industrial property and residents pay an average single-family tax bill of $4,294.
Without a large commercial tax base, Stoneham relies on residential taxes and state aid to fund its public services. Seibold supported the proposed Proposition 2 1/ 2 tax override in 2007 because the Town's costs continue to increase.


"Everything keeps costing more: fuel, etc. Eventually we'll need to pass an override," says Seibold. "All our neighboring communities have, but no one wants to hear that."


Seibold adds that people will eloquently argue why they believe that Stoneham doesn't need an override, but Town Administrator David Ragucci and the Town's department heads have again provided budget recommendations that cut more than $1 million worth of public services. Seibold trusts that Ragucci and the department heads present the board with as accurate a deficit amount as they can currently determine, recognizing that the state has yet to announce its final local and lottery aid revenue amounts.


Seibold proposes a Warrant Article for the Town to vote on this May regarding the timing of budget announcements. He says the town should wait to see how much the state offers before announcing specific cuts that alarm the public. Seibold would like to see the Town Administrator make his first budget recommendations 35 days sooner, so the board can spend 21 days working with the Finance and Advisory Board to balance the budget and announce specific recommendations (using more accurate state aid amounts) at least 14 days in advance of Town Meeting.


Seibold's term ends on March 31, but he is seeking re-election against Finance and Advisory Board veteran Richard Gregorio. Vote for your candidate at Town Hall on April 1. Polling hours are 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Finance & Advisory Board discussion re: STM

by: Randy Perillo

Sat Aug 04, 2007 at 20:47:10 PM EDT

Article 1: Should the town appropriate $15,000 to the budget of the Open Space and Recreation Department?

Christine DelRossi from Stoneham Recreation asked the Board of Selectmen for the funding in a letter. The board decided to adopt the proposal as a warrant article.

Article 2: Should the town appropriate $92,000 to the Stoneham Public Library? ($38,814 to its personnel budget, $53,186 to its operating budget)

The Library Board of Trustees presented this warrant article. With the newly proposed budget including $40,000 for SPL, this amount could be amended at Special Town Meeting. SPL expects to receive $25,000 in state aid next year if the town appropriates an adequate amount to meet state requirements.

Article 3: Will the town accept the amended budget proposal as accepted by the Board of Selectmen on July 31?

The Board of Selectmen's approval does not finalize the fiscal year 2008 budget without voter approval at Special Town Meeting.

Article 4: Should the town immediately transfer any funds in the "free cash" account to the "stabilization fund" account at the end of any fiscal year?

If the money is in the "stabilization fund" then the town must approve its use by a two-thirds majority. Citizen John DeGeorge proposed Article 4. Ben Caggiano and Andy Gould commented that it seems to be a good idea. John Bowen and Richard Gregorio recalled this article being on the agenda at last October's Town Meeting.

New Rule: One User ID per Person

by: Jim Sinclair

Sat Jun 30, 2007 at 16:54:31 PM EDT

New Health Insurance Law Takes Affect Tomorrow

by: Jim Sinclair

Sat Jun 30, 2007 at 16:32:30 PM EDT

OK, not terribly Stoneham specific, but I was sent a copy of an email from the Governor's office asking everybody to spread the word, so there it is.  I don't pretend to be an expert on this topic, but I did skim through the Globe article and it seemed to answer most of the basic questions.

Notes From Last Night's Stoneham Public School Foundation Meeting

by: Jim Sinclair

Fri Jun 29, 2007 at 07:51:55 AM EDT

The group's purpose is fundraising. A quarter-page ad in the June 27, 2007 Stoneham Independent states that the foundation is "forming a committee to raise the funds needed to restore... programs which directly impact Stoneham's children." The foundation is a qualified 501c3 charitable organization. Donations to the foundation are tax deductible.

The foundation decided to pursue three specific methods of fundraising in the immediate future: (1) banner advertising on the athletic fields, a program highly successful in Winthrop where high school sports are funded completely by private donations, (2) a direct mail campaign sending information to all Stoneham residents as well as SHS alum, local businesses, and even residents of other Middlesex League towns, and (3) a "support the Spartans" program in larger retail locations in our town (such as Stop & Shop, Shaw's, or Marshall's). The program will allow shoppers to donate a dollar or more to purchase a "Spartan" to post in the store windows to raise awareness of the need for increased funding.

The crowd offered a range of ideas for future fundraising events: contacting Nancy Kerrigan and other SHS celebrity alumni to be part of the efforts, "Monte Carlo" nights, dinner parties, golf tournaments at Unicorn and Bear Hill courses in Stoneham, a mini-golf tournament at Hago Harrington's, on-line auctions, and concerts or performances at Stoneham Theater to benefit the foundation.

Resident and SHS parent Donna Secondini told the gathering that she worked as a coordinator on the St. Patrick's Parish Center capital committee. The parish raised over $5 million in private donations without holding a single fundraising event. Instead the parish contacted individuals about making a 3-5 year commitment of donations. Ms. Secondini called the events "friend-raisers."

Another member of the group stated that the climate is right for a corporate sponsor to step up to fund SHS sports. With all the media coverage as of late, any business who could fund the $400,000-$600,000 annual SHS sports expense would gain much goodwill in the community and across New England through Boston media coverage. Someone mentioned that it would be a good time to "hit up Home Depot" in lieu of the Board of Selectman's favorable vote on the proposed "Stoneham Crossing" project at 225 Fallon Rd. in Stoneham.

Mr. Willard said the foundation will accept donations directed at specific areas of need in the school system. The School Committee can only accept donations and spend the money if it is in compliance with the donor's wishes. Some of the ideas on the menu of choices include, but are not limited to, sports, art, music, and academics. The School Committee plans to create a subcommittee to work with SPSF.
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Stoneham Past is correct in saying that those of us who were willing to have our property taxes raised to support the town should put our money where our mouth is.  The SPSF is a great vehicle for doing this.  As a reminder, the link to the Foundation's web site can now be found in the 'Stoneham Links' block on the Talking Stoneham home page.

Town Meeting

by: Bear Hill

Tue Jun 26, 2007 at 22:11:22 PM EDT

They passed the $200 trash fee for those who did not go. I disagree, and I was mistaken in my assumption that Vallarelli would vote No.

There were some real "interesting" passionate people on the other side.

TV news trucks all outside and in house today -- this has gotten out of hand. I applaud the two members for voting No in the face of hostility.

Board of Selectmen Vote to Reinstate Trash Fee

by: Jim Sinclair

Wed Jun 27, 2007 at 08:29:13 AM EDT

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The Board of Selectmen approved a trash fee for fiscal year 2008 (7/1/07-6/30/08) before a large, often emotional crowd at the Town Hall auditorium. The fee will charge Stoneham homeowners $200 per year (up from $160 last year) and raise $1.3 million for the town and schools. After that heated discussion, the board unanimously approved the site plan for the proposed Home Depot on Fallon Rd. Two state agencies still could have much to say about the project before construction begins as the state portion of the road re-configuration aspect of the project requires state approval.

Introducing the Stoneham Public School Foundation

by: Jim Sinclair

Tue Jun 26, 2007 at 22:49:28 PM EDT

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We would like to let people know there are ways they can help the Stoneham Public Schools.  Below is a little information on the foundation.

Three years ago the Stoneham Public Schools Foundation was founded to help build community support for our Public School System. During this time the Foundation has helped provide funding for the Math Team, Pep Band, Girls Track and support for the Tennis Team. The Foundation has
also helped secure donations of furniture and computer equipment to create a new Computer Lab and renovate the TV Studio at Stoneham High School.  Contributions to the Stoneham Public School Foundation replaced old and broken furniture in Stoneham's High School and Middle School.

The Foundation is now gearing up for its largest effort yet.  Stoneham Public School Foundation will be launching a campaign to raise the funds needed to restore programs cut by the School Committee during this budget crisis.

The Foundation is seeking committed and energetic community members to  volunteer their time and talents to help in these efforts. People who are interested in doing so may go to our website, www.stonehampsf.org, and click on the "Contact Us" now link.

People who would like to make adonation may do so on our website by clicking the "Donate Now" button in the upper left hand corner or by mailing them to Stoneham PSF, P.O. Box80301, Stoneham, MA 02180.

The Stoneham Public Schools Foundation is a qualified 501c3 charitable organization.  Your gift is tax deductible to the full extent of the law.

Thank you for your assistance.
Chris Willard
Stoneham PSF

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I'll be adding a link to the organizations web site to the links block on the home page for future reference.  Chris tells me they'll be holding a meeting this Thursday from 7:00 - 9:00 in the high school cafeteria to talk about their plans.

My Response to Michael Graham

by: Jim Sinclair

Tue Jun 26, 2007 at 10:15:03 AM EDT

No one should have been surprised by Wednesday's announcement.  The school committee announced as early as February that the sports program was at risk without an override.  Boston TV stations ran stories and papers published articles that highlighted the proposed cuts.  The school committee talked about it again in April when they held their required public hearing on the school budget.  Maybe a dozen citizens showed up for that meeting and the only people that I remember asking questions or making comments were members of the Finance Committee.  During the campaign those of us who were supporting the override did everything we knew to let the citizens of the town know what was at stake.  Then on the 19th the citizens of the town came out, voted and said no.  That's democracy at work even if I don't like the outcome.

So who's fault is it that people are now surprised about the cancellation of the sports program? Not the school committee.  You can disagree with their priorities if you want, but don't accuse them of dirty tricks.  They said they were going to have to do it for four months.  If the override had failed and they had kept the program anyway many people would be accusing them of a different kind of deceit. 

At a time when the Stoneham schools are facing declining MCAS scores, accreditation warnings at the high school, inadequate Chapter 70 funding and rapidly escalating special education costs, Michael Graham seems to think the only program worth trying to save is sports.  I just think that's sad.

Save The Spartans!

by: Save The Spartans

Sun Jun 24, 2007 at 22:02:37 PM EDT

I'm a former student and athlete at Stoneham High School (class of '89), and like a lot of you, I'm shocked and saddened to hear the news of the budget cuts that will eliminate all high school sports, as well as art & music programs in the lower grades. Like a lot of former Stoneham residents, the first I heard of this, regretfully, was in this morning's Boston Globe.

Some of my favorite memories from Stoneham High include my times on the basketball and soccer teams. I had some great coaches (Jim Carino springs to mind) that were every bit as influential and inspiring as my favorite teachers. If I learned teamwork and the ability to compromise, I learned it on the field and court, where those lessons are essential and not as easily learned in the classroom.

My family also has a long history with SHS athletics: my Uncles Mike & Tommy were accomplished hockey players, and my grandfather, Sarge O'Toole, was captain of the football, basketball and baseball teams. I have countless cousins and friends, like I'm sure a lot of you, who played one sport or another over these past 7 decades at Stoneham High School.

www.SaveTheSpartans.com

Jesse Haley
www.SaveTheSpartans.com
savethespartans@gmail.com

Ok let's start listing Revenue Ideas and Priorities

by: Stoneham Past

Sun Jun 24, 2007 at 07:58:38 AM EDT

Increase revenue:
Aggresively work with the BRMC site and get it built.
Build Home Depot without blocking off the road--just do it!
Aggresively market Redstone----we don't want a PLanet Fitness-kiss of death!
Lobby the State and the Governor for funds in lieu of taxes for the DRC land-----get to work on that!!Hand the Governor our bills and ask him to pay them!!
Start ticketing all illegal parking aggressivly.
Monitor all work time carefully .
Sell the old schools-break the leases-we need the REVENUE
Have Building department due inspectional work--all over this Town we have Furniture/ tables on side walks--sandwich boards all are against the BYLAWS=fine them enfoce the code--don't just look the other way.
Schools of all the 2699 Yes votes go to the accounts office and find out what their cost would be and write a check for a donation. If they were willingly then they should be willing now.Right?
Selectmen should give their salary back to the Town coffers-as a good gesture.15 K really alot more if we get them out of retirement system!!
Consolidate the jobs where we can----admin.is too heavy==Cut the Assistants on both sides of government --we have no need for them.
Institute PAY as YOU THROW Program--fair to all!!
Create a charter committee to change our form of government.
Do not allow anyone to speak to the media-that should be the responsibility of the TA or Superintendent.-Citizens without the facts or who work for departments should not be pleading our case on TV.Scare tactics only insight us.
Buy 100 of the lottery tickets and pray!!
Now what are your ideas??? I have more but certainly you must have a few.