10/9 School Committee summary and 10/14 Board of Selectmen summary

by: Randy Perillo

Wed Oct 15, 2008 at 02:21:22 AM EDT

Stoneham Board of Health Agent Robert F. Bracey,
Stoneham Recreation Director Christine DelRossi,
Democratic nominee for State Representative Jim Dwyer (30th Middlesex District),
Bob Grover, Director of Public Works,
Stephanie Guinto, Legislative Aide to State Representative Patrick Natale (representing Stoneham's 3rd precinct),
Stoneham Council on Aging Director (retired) Jane Lavender,
Democratic nominee for State Representative Jason Lewis (31st Middlesex District),
Boston Globe Northwest reporter Eric Moskowitz,
Republican nominee for State Representative Brian O'Connor (31st Middlesex District),
Stoneham Superintendent of Schools Dr. Les Olson,
Stoneham Assistant Superintendent of Schools Anne Patriquin,
Stoneham Town Administrator David Ragucci,
Un-enrolled candidate for State Representative Chad Riley (31st Middlesex District),
Stoneham Sun editor Amy Saltzman,
and Boston Globe Northwest reporter Bella Travaglini.
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 School Committee meeting on October 9, 2008. Here are the highlights:
· The Committee heard program reviews from Chairperson of English Rosemarie Vecchio and Chairperson of Social Studies/Unified Arts Paula Sampson.
· Superintendent Dr. Les Olson discussed enrollment numbers at Stoneham Public Schools.
· Olson also discussed School Department warrant articles for Oct. 20 Town Meeting and a "Statement of Interest" that begins a 31-step process that could, eventually, lead to a town partnership with the Mass. School Building Authority to investigate possible solutions to problems with Stoneham's out-dated middle school. MORE INFORMATION REGARDING THESE TWO ITEMS FOLLOWS IN THE OCTOBER 14 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING SUMMARY SECTION.
Chairperson Marie Christie and board members Shelly MacNeill, Joe Viselli, Marc Grimaldi, and David Maurer attended the meeting. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Les Olson, Assistant Superintendent of Schools Anne Patriquin, Business Manager Anthony DiCologero, Secretary to the Superintendent Ruth Cronin, and Student Representatives Nick Ciarlante, Nicole Willard, and Bikang Zhang also attended this meeting.

English Department Program Review:
Chairperson Marie Vecchio presented an overview of the English Program in grades 6-12. She said that teachers are always collaborating on reading and literature frameworks and consistency in vocabulary and terminology for grades 6-12.
At SMS the literature curriculum is generic, featuring a wide variety of literature. At SHS, however, grades 9-10 study world literature, grade 11 studies American literature, and grade 12 studies British literature.
There are 6 English teachers at SMS (2 per each grade: 6,7, and 8). There are 2 study skills enrichment programs for grades 6,7, and 8. These, Vecchio says, are the "remnants" of the once strong elementary program. Stoneham no longer has elementary reading coaches as so many other towns do.
There are 10 English teachers at SHS (for grades 9-12). The curriculum stresses independent reading at all grade levels. The program seeks to promote a lifelong love of reading and learning.
Stoneham schools train all teachers in John Collins writing program. That helps all students through consistency. Students build a history of writing. Each student has a writing folder from grades 6-12. Students' work stays in the folder to help teachers track student progress.
Vecchio says that students need a vocabulary text in grades 6-12. She says students learn words, but would benefit from a "sequential piece."
Committee member Joe Viselli asked Vecchio how Stoneham's grade 6-12 program compares to that of other towns. Vecchio says that Stoneham has no curriculum supervisors at the elementary level. She called the decline at SMS "devastating," noting that she could not compare SMS to other towns as the school is a "middle school in name only" as it lacks the normal team teaching program required to be a true middle school. SHS freshmen and sophomores never experienced team teaching at SMS and Vecchio says she is now seeing an "erosion" of education at those levels.
Social Studies/Unified Arts Program Review:
Chairperson Paula Sampson says it's a very exciting time to be a Social Studies teacher. In grades 6-9, Stoneham students study World History, geography, ancient civilizations, and early and modern world history.
Sampson said other Social Studies courses at SHS include economics, psychology, community service, and more.
Sampson showed the committee some examples of award-winning National History Day projects created by SHS students. Sampson said National History Day is organized nationwide and students work on their projects from September to June. Two SHS students won third place awards at the state level last year. On January 15, 2009, the SHS library will open for students to display their projects to the public.
Sampson also noted that the Social Studies and Science programs at SMS are each short one teacher. This results in larger class sizes in these subjects. Sampson, like Vecchio, says that SMS misses team teaching, a format that disappeared earlier in the decade because of budget cuts. Sampson said that team teaching allows teachers to talk about students and provide adequate attention to students showing difficulties across multiple subjects.
Enrollment numbers in Stoneham Public Schools:
Dr. Olson reports that, as of October 1, Stoneham Public Schools enrollment is 2,706. He noted that there is a national decline in Kindergarten enrollment and Stoneham has seen this decline also. The population decrease should, obviously, lead to smaller class sizes. Olson said that, because of financial reasons, some fourth and fifth grade classes hold 26 or more students.
Olson also said that there is an influx of new students in grade 9. He believes that economic difficulties led many families to return to public school after having attended private school in grades K-8.
Also at this meeting:
Committee member David Maurer suggested created a video tour of Stoneham's schools so all taxpayers could see the insides of these bustling buildings. Maurer noted that many taxpayers who fund the school system never enter the buildings.
I also attended the Board of Selectmen meeting on October 14, 2008. Here are the highlights:
· The Board voted to make recommendations to Town Meeting voters regarding the 17 Warrant Articles scheduled for discussion and votes on Oct. 20, including somewhat controversial issues involving the town budget and trash collection for Stoneham condominium dwellers.
· The Board, acting as Liquor License Authority, voted 4-1 with Selectman Sweeney in opposition, to increase new liquor license fees by $500.
· The Board met with four members of the School Committee and Superintendent Dr. Les Olson regarding the future of Stoneham's school buildings, especially those the town no longer uses to educate its mainstream students.
· The Board voted, 5-0, in favor of submitting a Statement of Interest to the Mass. School Building Commission regarding the first step toward developing a state/town partnership to investigate building a new middle school in Stoneham.
Chairman John DePinto and board members Richard Gregorio, Paul Rotondi, Frank Vallarelli, and Bob Sweeney attended the meeting. Town Administrator David Ragucci, Town Counsel Bill Solomon and Office Manager Muriel Doherty also attended this meeting.
Board recommendations for Town Meeting Warrant Articles:
The Board unanimously recommended favorable action on Articles 1-9, including a proposal by Atty. Charles Houghton asking Town Meeting voters for very specific new parameters regarding construction of a single billboard along route 93 in Stoneham and regulation for newspaper boxes on town property.
Article 10, however, regarding the town budget, caused quite a stir. Town Administrator Ragucci read a list of more than a dozen account adjustments that totaled more than $600,000 in net department fiscal changes. The article proposed that more than $550,000 comes from the town's Stabilization or "Rainy Day" account.
Selectman Rotondi noted that the town seeks to spend only $581,000 (on non-recurring expenses and school department utilities) despite maintaining a surplus of $1.4 million this year.
Selectman Gregorio stated that Governor Patrick should announce an enormous state deficit amount tomorrow. Gregorio believes this deficit could cause Stoneham to face a shortfall of more than $500,000 in this fiscal year, leading to possible cuts after January 1, 2009, an unexpected possibility. This could force the town to cut 20 employees and possibly more over the course of the next couple of years.
Chairman DePinto noted that the town could call for a Special Town Meeting in February 2009 if the budget needs to be cut so significantly. Town Meeting voters could decide what gets cut.
Selectman Rotondi said that cuts could be continuous and the town needs to take a long-term approach to solving these potential problems.
Rotondi also noted that if the statewide ballot initiative to repeal the state income tax, Question 1 on the November 4 ballot, succeeds Stoneham's losses will far exceed $500,000 this year.
Gregorio asks voters to visit www.masstaxpayers.org for more information regarding Question 1.
Eric Rubin, chairman of the town's Capital Committee, noted that the town seeks $494,000 for capital improvements at Town Meeting on Oct. 20.
Rotondi said that Town Meeting voters could authorize the money for capital improvements, but the town could elect to not spend it immediately as it waits to learn more about the state's budget cuts.
Ragucci then noted that the town would need to spend $80,000 for trash collection at condominium complexes over the second half of the fiscal year (January to June 2009). Condos opted out of the town collection process because the trash fees of the previous three years cost their residents more than a private collection. Finance and Advisory Chairman John Warren later said that those condos did not have to factor in the cost of trash collection for town buildings when paying for collection.
Rotondi said this is an "emotional" issue, citing that condos had the opportunity to join the town collection program last February, but decided against it.
Selectman Sweeney displayed emotion regarding this subject. Sweeney said that the town did not provide a clear process for condo associations to make their decisions. Sweeney said that condos did not know if the town would charge a trash fee or not as late as July 1, the beginning of the new fiscal year. This indecision related to the Board's vote to tie in the possibility of restating a trash fee to town union's decisions regarding health insurance. The board made that decision in April.
Rotondi said that, by definition, the town would not reinstate a trash fee each year. Condos could have made their decisions based on that information.
Citizen and Capital Committee member Andy Gould addressed the Board. Gould said that the town was taking money out of its surplus to pay for capital improvements, not money from the town budget. He said that even if the Town Meeting voters do not accept Article 10, the town would need to spend 25-50 percent of the total capital budget just for repair and maintenance.
Gould also said, regarding the trash fee and collections, that the City of Malden operates an efficient "Pay-As-You-Throw" system where all residents pay $2 for acceptable bags.
Selectman DePinto said that Stoneham officials have talked with members of RecycleBank, a Philadelphia-based company, about a pilot program that would give personal incentive to each resident to improve his or her recycling efforts to earn coupons and rewards from local retailers.
The Board voted, 4-1, to recommend favorable action on Article 10. Selectman Sweeney opposed based on a discrepancy found in the adjustment for concessions at Stoneham Arena and his belief that other such discrepancies could exist in the many adjustments.
The Board unanimously recommended favorable action on Articles 12,13,15, and 16. The Board voted to indefinitely postpone Article 11 regarding School Department utilities, as it now is part of Article 10, and Article 14 regarding removing pedestrian bump-outs on Franklin St.
The Board split on Article 17, a proposal to automatically place the prior year's surplus into the town's Stabilization or "Rainy Day" account. Gregorio and Selectman Frank Vallarelli voted in opposition as the Board voted, 3-2, to recommend favorable action.
All board recommendations serve as advice to Town Meeting voters on Oct. 20. Town Meeting voters make all final decisions regarding these proposals.
Liquor License Fee Increase:
The Board voted, 4-1 with Selectman Sweeney in opposition, to increase all NEW liquor license application fees by $500. The selectmen read letters of protest from Felicia's Restaurant and the American Legion opposing any increase all liquor license renewal fees.
Selectman Vallarelli said he introduced this idea because new applications require more processing than that of renewals. His goal is to raise fees to offset the additional costs to the town.
Sharon Iovanni of the Stoneham Chamber of Commerce spoke at the public hearing noting that increases in new applications could deter new restaurants from coming to Stoneham, thus hurting local businesses in an already difficult economic time.
Rotondi said, after reviewing a list of fees from 20 other nearby towns, that the increase would still keep Stoneham's fees lower than all but three towns and would not price Stoneham out of the market.
School Committee meets with Board of Selectmen:
In a rare event, four members of the School Committee and Superintendent Dr. Les Olson met with the board at Town Hall.
Originally, Committee member Shelly MacNeill called for the meeting. MacNeill said that the town and school committee should have discussions regarding the future of Stoneham's aging school buildings. She also said she would love to hear the Board's ideas for improving the school building situations in the future.
The board and committee discussed the future of the "dire need" to repair of replace Stoneham Middle School.
Dr. Olson said that the state now uses a new process to help town's build new school buildings. The first process includes a "Statement of Interest" submitted by both a town's School Committee and Board of Selectmen. The Board voted, 5-0, to approve submitting such a statement to the Mass. School Building Commission. The submission does not bind the town to any costs at this time. Olson said that only half of last year's submissions began moving forward. The submission presents no risk to the town, but does notify the state that the town sees deficiencies at SMS that need attention. The process could eventually lead to the state acting as a financial partner with the town in building a new middle school.
The board and committee could attend a tour of the new state-of-the-art Melrose Middle School on Saturday morning.
Also at this meeting:
Natalee Webb announced a new course for the 9th annual Veteran's Day 11k road race. The race begins with a cannon shot at 11:11AM on November 11 (Tuesday).
The Board voted, 5-0, to approve Chairman DePinto's signature for preservation restriction to 90 Franklin St., a home that once sat on Main St. when built in 1842.
The Board voted, 5-0, to continue the liquor license request of a possible retail establishment on Cedar St. The board will consider the matter again at it's meeting on Oct. 28.
The Board voted, 5-0, to approve a liquor license for Bacci's Restaurant, planning to open at 316 Main St., the former site of Bruschetta.
Town Administrator Ragucci said that salt prices have increased dramatically since last year. The consortium of towns that purchase salt along with Stoneham have seen an increase from $54/per ton last year to $70/per ton this year. The increase could lead to a $60,000 increase to provide last year's level of safety on Stoneham's roads.
Ragucci also noted that Energy New England has met with the town to review town energy costs. ENE looks to save the town from overcharges from utility companies and seeks ways to help the town lower its expenses. ENE provides this service free of charge.  Selectman Gregorio thanked citizen Dan Trant for bringing ENE to the town's attention.
Thank you for your time,
Randy
Visit http://www.wickedlocal.com/sto... to read my weekly Stoneham Sun column.
This week: "CAST YOUR VOTE AT TOWN MEETING"

Upcoming government meetings:  
PLANNING BOARD MEETING:
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15 at 7:30PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St., Hearing Room PUBLIC HEARING: Proposed billboard warrant article (presented by Atty. Charles Houghton)
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING:
MONDAY, OCTOBER 20 at 6:30PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St., Upper Conference Room
SPECIAL TOWN MEETING:
MONDAY, OCTOBER 20 at 7PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St.
SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING:
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23 at 7PM, Stoneham High School Library, 149 Franklin St.
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING:
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28 at 7PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St., Hearing Room              PUBLIC HEARING: Ravine Road and Phillips Road traffic concerns
ELECTION DAY:
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, polls open from 7AM to 8PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St.
Upcoming community events:
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
U.S. Civil War author Richard N. Griffin speaks at Stoneham Historical Society:
Thursday, October 16, 7:15PM, Stoneham Historical Society, 36 William St. Griffin speaks on the Civil War experience and the character of life of Private George Perkins of Woburn. FREE ADMISSION. Contact Stoneham Historical Society President Donna Weiss at 781-438-1739 for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Saturday Math Exploration with Kathy Holland:
Saturdays for six weeks beginning October 18, 9:30-10:30AM (for grades 2,3, and 4), 10:30-11:30AM (for Kindergarten and grade 1), Rec Park Field House, Dale Court (off Franklin St.) COST: $90. Contact Stoneham Recreation Program Coordinator Christine DelRossi at 781-279-2630 or cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Boo at the Zoo:
Saturday October 18 and Sunday, October 19, 11AM-3PM, Stone Zoo, 149 Pond St. ADMISSION: Adults $9, Seniors $8, Children 2-12 $6, Children under 2 FREE. Contact info@zoonewengland.com for more information.
Posted September 23, 2008:
Stoneham Alliance Against Violence 2nd Annual Walk for Awareness Fundraiser: Saturday, October 18, 1:30-4PM, Town Common, 35 Central St. Funds support community programs dealing with domestic violence. Visit Town Common for music, raffles, resources, and guest speakers. Walk from Town Common to Stoneham High School and back. To register or to learn more call (781) 438-7228 or email stoneham.against.violence@hotmail.com.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Stoneham High School Soccer Net-Works Annual Event:
Saturday October 18, 8PM-Midnight, Marconi Club, Pine St. Expect DJ, dancing, silent auction, and cash bar. ADMISSION: $15 per person. Event supports SHS soccer teams. Contact Marybeth Brennan at 781-438-8904 or mbmbrennan@comcast.net for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
State Representatives Candidate Debate:
Sunday, October 19, 3-4:30PM, Stoneham Town Hall, 35 Central St. The League of Women Voters of Winchester sponsors the debate featuring candidates Jason Lewis, Brian O'Connor, and Chad Riley. PUBLIC INVITED TO ATTEND. Broadcast LIVE on Stoneham TV: Comcast 9, RCN 3, and Verizon 34. Contact League of Women Voters of Winchester through Vicky Coccoluto at cocco.berry@verizon.net for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Puppetry Program with Liz Arno for ages 4-5:
Mondays for four weeks beginning October 20, 9:30-10:15AM, Rec Park Field House, Dale Court (off Franklin St.) COST: $45. Contact Stoneham Recreation Program Coordinator Christine DelRossi at 781-279-2630 or cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Baking Program with Liz Arno for ages 4-5:
Mondays for four weeks beginning October 20, 10:30-11:30AM, Rec Park Field House, Dale Court (off Franklin St.) COST: $45. Contact Stoneham Recreation Program Coordinator Christine DelRossi at 781-279-2630 or cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Adult Yoga with Caroline Mallard:
Tuesday evening, October 21, 5:30-6:30PM, Stoneham Public Library (in the Stoneham Room), 431 Main St. COST: $15. DROP-INS welcome. Contact Stoneham Recreation Program Coordinator Christine DelRossi at 781-279-2630 or cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Halloween-Themed Illustrating Instruction at Stoneham Public Library:
Wednesday, October 22, 4PM, Stoneham Public Library, 431 Main St. Illustrative Artist Amanda Nordan for another instruction session. Contact SPL at 781-438-1325 for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
State Representatives Candidate Debate:
Wednesday, October 22, 7-8:30PM, Winchester Town Hall, 71 Mt. Vernon St. (Winchester). The League of Women Voters of Winchester sponsors the debate featuring candidates Jason Lewis, Brian O'Connor, and Chad Riley. PUBLIC INVITED TO ATTEND. Contact League of Women Voters of Winchester through Vicky Coccoluto at cocco.berry@verizon.net for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Drop-In Halloween Craft Time at Stoneham Public Library:
Thursday, October 23, 2:30-4PM, Stoneham Public Library, 431 Main St. All are welcome. FREE ADMISSION. Contact SPL at 781-438-1325 for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Friends of the Library Annual Book and Bake Sale at Stoneham Public Library:
Friday, October 24, 10AM-4PM, and Saturday, October 25, 10AM-2PM, Marcy Room at Stoneham Public Library, 431 Main St. Preview night sale for members only, Thursday, October 23, 7-8:30PM. Contact May Forkin at 781-438-1324, extension 29, for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
"Clifford The Big Red Dog" Visits Stoneham Public Library:
Friday, October 24, 10:30AM, Stoneham Public Library, 431 Main St. All are welcome. FREE ADMISSION. Contact SPL at 781-438-1325 for more information.
Posted September 18, 2008:
Stoneham Boys & Girls Club "Walk for the Club" Fundraiser:
Saturday, October 25, 9AM, Boys & Girls Club, 15 Dale Court. Children begin the walk at the Boys & Girls Club, continue to the 99 Restaurant on Main St, and return to the Club.
Posted September 23, 2008:
SBCEF Pumpkin Fair:
Saturday, October 25, 2-5PM, Town Common, 35 Central Street. Stoneham Business & Community Educational Foundation (SBCEF) will present awards for best pre-carved and pre-decorated pumpkins. SBCEF encourages children to wear Halloween costumes to the event. Contact SBCEF Vice President Wendy Smith for information: wasmith1980@rcn.com.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Tours of "Old Burying Ground" on Pleasant St. and Open House at Stoneham Historical Society:
Sunday, October 26, 2-4PM, Stoneham Historical Society, 36 William St. See artifacts and displays at Stoneham Historical Society then tour the "Old Burying Ground." FREE ADMISSION. Bring a camera. Contact Stoneham Historical Society President Donna Weiss at 781-438-1739 for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Safe Baby-sitting with Winchester Hospital Community Health Institute:
Monday, October 27 through Thursday, October 30, 3-4:30PM, Stoneham Town Hall Banquet Room, 35 Central St. COST: $75. Contact Stoneham Recreation Program Coordinator Christine DelRossi at 781-279-2630 or cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Adult Yoga with Caroline Mallard:
Tuesday evening, October 28, 5:30-6:30PM, Stoneham Public Library (in the Stoneham Room), 431 Main St. COST: $15. DROP-INS welcome. Contact Stoneham Recreation Program Coordinator Christine DelRossi at 781-279-2630 or cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Drop-In Halloween Craft Time at Stoneham Public Library:
Wednesday, October 29, 2:30-4PM, Stoneham Public Library, 431 Main St. All are welcome. FREE ADMISSION. Contact SPL at 781-438-1325 for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
"How Many Miles to Basra":
Opens Thursday, October 30, 7:30PM, Stoneham Theatre, 395 Main Street
Tickets: $40 for adults, $35 for seniors, and $20 for students.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Election Day Lunch:
Tuesday, November 4, 11AM-2PM, First Congregational Church, 1 Church St. The church sells homemade soup and sandwiches in its hall.
Contact Judy Clark at clark98765@msn.com for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Adult Yoga with Caroline Mallard:
Tuesday evening, November 4, 5:30-6:30PM, Stoneham Public Library (in the Stoneham Room), 431 Main St. COST: $15. DROP-INS welcome. Contact Stoneham Recreation Program Coordinator Christine DelRossi at 781-279-2630 or cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Annual Harvest Supper at Stoneham Historical Society:
Thursday, November 13, 6:30PM, Stoneham Historical Society, 36 William St. The society invites members and their guests to join guest speaker Elsie Wallace as she tells of the wonderful history of Fuller House on Franklin St. SUGGESTED DONATION: $7.50 per each member and guest. Contact Stoneham Historical Society President Donna Weiss at 781-438-1739 for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
First Congregational Church Holiday Fair:
Friday, November 14, 7-9PM and Saturday, November 15, 9AM-2PM, First Congregational Church, 1 Church St. Ham and Bean Supper and Auction follows at 5:30PM on Saturday, November 15.
Contact Judy Clark at clark98765@msn.com for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Ham and Bean Supper and Auction:
Saturday, November 15, 5:30PM, First Congregational Church, 1 Church St.
Contact Judy Clark at clark98765@msn.com for more information.
Posted September 24, 2008:
Stoneham High School Booster Club's $10,000 raffle:
Saturday, November 15, 6:30PM, Woburn Elks, Washington Street, Woburn. Event includes light buffet, auction, 50/50 raffle, DJ Chris Serino, and drawing for $10,000. Purchase tickets ($100 per chance) through Andrea DeAngelo: deangelo13@comcast.net. For more information contact chairperson Carol Bowdidge: carol71160@yahoo.com.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
CoCo Key Water Resort South School Fundraiser:
Sunday, November 16, 1-5PM, CoCo Key Water Resort at Sheraton Ferncroft, 50 Ferncroft Rd, Danvers. COST: $20 (regular cost: $30). Contact Kim Wall at 781-572-3054 or bckwall@rcn.com for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
Adult Yoga with Caroline Mallard:
Tuesday evening, November 18, 5:30-6:30PM, Stoneham Public Library (in the Stoneham Room), 431 Main St. COST: $15. DROP-INS welcome. Contact Stoneham Recreation Program Coordinator Christine DelRossi at 781-279-2630 or cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us for more information.
NEW: Posted October 14, 2008:
DEADLINE: Rotary Club of Stoneham Essay Contest:
Thursday, November 20, 5PM (postmark), Rotary Club of Stoneham, P.O. Box 1, Stoneham, MA. Stoneham residents may submit an essay of 500-words or less about their favorite Stoneham non-profit organization. The winner essay earns $1,000 for the featured Stoneham non-profit organization.
Contact Rotary of Stoneham President Joy DeGuzman at rotaryofstoneham@hotmail.com for more information.
Posted September 25, 2008:
"It's a Wonderful Life" to benefit Stoneham Pop Warner:
Saturday, November 29, 3PM, Stoneham Theatre, 395 Main Street. Patrons must make purchases through the box office [(781) 279-2200] to benefit Stoneham Pop Warner (SPW). Online sales for this performance do not benefit SPW. Tickets: $40 for adults, $35 for seniors, $20 for students. For more information contact Rachel Goulding: my3sons0174@comcast.net.

Posted September 23, 2008:
Traffic Box replica project:
Stoneham High School Class of 1982 Beautification Fund seeks donations (tax deductible) to reconstruct a replica of Stoneham's historic Traffic Box. The replica will stand over the electrical box at the corner of Main St. and Franklin St. Donate online at www.shsclassof82.org. Contact Chris Oneschuk for information (617) 908-4923.
Posted September 23, 2008:
Wish List:
Stoneham Junior Library seeks popular children's titles, ones you may find in your home: Berenstain Bears, Magic School Bus, Junie B. Jones, Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, Scooby-Doo, and others like them. Contact Stoneham Public Library for information (781) 438-1325.

6/19 School Committee meeting summary

by: Randy Perillo

Fri Jun 20, 2008 at 13:03:51 PM EDT

NOTE: The Board of Selectmen cancelled their June 17 meeting. The Board plans to meet again on Tuesday, July 8 at 7pm.

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 School Committee meeting on June 19, 2008. Here are the highlights:

The Committee presented the 2008 Crystal Apple Awards to former School Committee Chairs Kristin Russo and Cheryl Walsh, Stoneham Public Schools Foundation President and Founder Chris Willard, long-time Stoneham elementary school teacher Barbara Lambropoulos, and long-time teacher, Program Supervisor of Science, and athletic coach Stephen Jackson.

The Committee also recognized more than two-dozen staff members for serving more than 30 years with Stoneham Public Schools. (See the list below).

Stoneham resident Bob Daniels of Avid Technology in Tewksbury presented Stoneham Public Schools with a donation of computer equipment and video editing equipment.

All four elementary school principals addressed the Committee regarding their School Improvement Plans. Central School Principal Larry MacElhiney, Colonial Park Principal Maureen Burke, Robin Hood Principal Alice Reilly, and South School Principal Nicholas Leonardos spoke about their schools.

Assistant Superintendent Anne Patriquin addressed the Committee regarding Stoneham Middle School's failure to make "Adequate Yearly Progress" (AYP) based on Federal No Child Left Behind standards. Patriquin explained strategies for corrective action.

Chairperson Marie Christie and board members Shelly MacNeill, Joe Viselli, David Maurer, and Marc Grimaldi attended the meeting. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Les Olson, Assistant Superintendent of Schools Anne Patriquin, Business Manager Anthony DiCologero, Secretary to the Superintendent Ruth Cronin, and student representatives Nicole Willard and Nick Ciarlante also attended this meeting.
2008 Crystal Apple Awards:

Stoneham Schools established Crystal Apple Awards in 1998. For the past decade, award winners have served the school population for a minimum of five years or made a significant contribution in one year. The award symbolizes clarity, vision, and nurturing.

This year's winners:

Stephen Jackson served for 38 years in Stoneham Public Schools. Committee Chair Marie Christie described Jackson as "a steady, thoughtful presence throughout years of change, historical times of turbulence, and the tenures of six superintendents."

Barbara Lambropoulos began teaching in Stoneham in 1973. Christie said Lambropoulos taught at Emerson School, North School, Central School, Robin Hood, and South Elementary Schools in her 34 years of "providing a positive learner experience to her young students."

Kristin Russo, an SHS graduate, became a member of the Finance & Advisory Board and advocated for the Elementary School Building Project that led to the construction of the four new elementary schools (through a partial state reimbursement plan). Russo has been an active member of the Stoneham Business and Community Educational Foundation (SBCEF) and won election to the School Committee in 2004, leading the search that ultimately led to the hiring of Superintendent Les Olson.

Cheryl Walsh served six years as a member of the School Committee, working with United Council, Health & Safety Committee, Cell Tower Study Commission, and Revenue Enrichment Committee.

Chris Willard founded Stoneham Public Schools Foundation (http://www.stonehampublicschoolsfoundation.org/) in 2004. Willard has helped "to raise money to support and/or restore several worthwhile programs, including Pep Band, Elementary Music, SHS Math Team, and SMS intramurals.

30 years of service recognition:

The School Committee instituted a new staff recognition program, honoring staff members serving more than 30 years in Stoneham. The Committee purchased a book with a bookplate honoring the individual staff member. The books will be available to students at that staff members school library.

Central School: Nancy Kafton, Maureen McQuinn, and Linda Peterson.

Colonial Park: Ellen Levine.

Robin Hood: Michele Fitzgerald and Mary Velluto.

South School: Sandra Corson, Karon Gibson-Mueller, Barbara Lambropoulos, Linda O'Brien, Nancy Rolli, and William Taylor.

SMS: Paul Linehan, Susan McClory, Carol Miller, Kathleen Plati, William Porter, Michael Sheedy, Glenn Shepherd, and Isabel Szczawinski.

SHS: John Bennett, Donna Brine, Cynthia Hart, Stephen Jackson, Thomas Mayo, Richard Mongeau, Edward Russo, and Rosemarie Vecchio.

Avid Technologies:

Bob Daniels, a Stoneham resident, SHS graduate, and member of the SHS Athletic Hall of Fame presented the School Committee with a donation of computer and editing equipment.

Daniels noted the Avid internship program for Stoneham students that began 10 years ago. Avid also has built an editing suite at SHS and this donation continues to build on that suite. The four editing systems and related storage has a $50,000 value, according to Daniels.

Daniels said that Avid's many donations are the company's way of "saying thank you" to all the Stoneham students who have helped Avid with its award winning work in film production.

Elementary principals' reports:

The four Stoneham elementary school principals discussed their individual school improvement plans.

The schools had many common items to report. One of the items included successful "lockdown" exercises, helping staff and students to prepare for emergency. All schools thanked their School Councils, comprised of parents, teachers, and community members.

Maureen Burke of Colonial Park noted that the school uses all available space during the day and often acts as a community center in the evenings for athletics and group meetings. Burke noted the schools Walk To School Program, Build A Book Night, and unique fundraising activities driven by students. Burke also said that an online parent survey helped the school staff better understand parental goals for the school, including more challenging enrichment, a review of the report card system, and interest in an email newsletter.

Larry MacElhiney of Central School spoke about "Open Circle", a social skills program, funded by grants. Teachers attend training seminars that help them focus on fostering appropriate behavior in the school environment. MacElhiney also thanked StonehamBank for funding an after school MCAS Academy for students needing support with the test. Stoneham also received a grant for the Safe Routes to School program and MacElhiney announced that the town is seeking a Safe Routes to School coordinator. Contact jobs@stonehamschools.net for information.

Alice Reilly of Robin Hood told the Committee that her long-term goal is to restore elementary fine arts to full-year status. Those programs currently run only half-year. Reilly said that Robin Hood offered a well-attended MCAS forum for parents. The school still seeks a business partner (as Central School and South School) to sponsor its after-school homework club. Robin Hood will begin its Open Circle training over the summer and throughout the coming school year. Robin Hood also sent home a list of suggested summer website for students. The school will also pilot two new math programs next year as the school system looks to improve its math performance throughout all its schools.

Nicholas Leonardos of South School said that his school is seeking a way to resolve a problem with broken glass on the grassy side of the school. This problem has kept students from enjoying that area of the grounds during recess time. Leonardos said that the school has improved the lighting on that side of the building since original construction, but the area unfortunately invites a lot of evening activities that lead to graffiti, broken glass in the area, and on rare occasion, property damage.

Committee member David Maurer added that the schools depend on support from their PTO. Maurer said that people are not aware of the magnitude of programs, items, and trips that PTO provides Stoneham students. Maurer listed more than a dozen PTO sponsored programs.

Committee member Joe Viselli asked the principals about their work to help 5th graders adjust to the jump to SMS. Principals noted that all 5th graders visited the middle school to receive a tour and adjustment counselors spoke to kids with anxiety about changing schools. Students also practiced opening combination locks on the SMS lockers.

SMS and AYP:

Assistant Superintendent Anne Patriquin briefly spoke of the middle schools failure to meet Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) based on Federal No Child Left Behind standards. SMS has failed to meet the requirement in math for three straight years.

SMS assembled a team that met a dozen times during the school year to develop a plan to meet the requirements. Patriquin provided the committee with a summary of the plan that includes changes in Special Education math teaching at SMS, additional professional development and "data driven" methods for teachers.

Patriquin said that middle school math problems persist throughout the Commonwealth. She added that it's an "urgent" matter, but SMS is not "in jeopardy" at this point. The problem really lies within "subgroups" in the school. SMS spends most of 6th grade getting all its students to the same level, as sixth graders enter the school from multiple elementary programs. Patriquin says she is working on improving consistency in math programs in the Stoneham elementary schools.

She noted that the lack of math and literacy "coaches" at the elementary level hurts the school system. She also said that the lack of common planning time (because of cuts to art, music, and other programs) only makes it more difficult to create consistency at all levels.

Patriquin concluded that Stoneham is following the Department of Education's recommendations and SMS should expect better scores next year.

Also at this meeting:

Stoneham Business and Community Education Foundation (SBCEF) also presented 2 grants to Stoneham Schools. SBCEF donated $1,000 to the SHS Pep Band and $1,500 to SMS Jazz Band for next season.

The Committee approved a policy change to increase fees for out-of-town groups using Stoneham Public School facilities. The increase does not apply to Stoneham groups using those facilities.

Six Stoneham teachers earned "Professional Teacher Status." Teachers earn this status by working in a fully certified capacity for a minimum of three years.

Stoneham Public Schools plans to return Health Education to the supervision of the Science Department. According to Superintendent Olson, Health Education, recently under the supervision of Physical Education, moves back to the Science Department because of the expertise of the new Science Program Supervisor at SHS.

The School Department also renewed its contract with Chartwells Educational Dining Services. The renewal is for one year.

Committee member David Maurer said that he would like to spend some time over the summer determining if the School Department is making full use of recycling options. His hope is to minimize trash costs and protect the environment. Maurer would like to have a comprehensive plan in place before school resumes in September.

Thank you for your time,

Randy

Visit  http://www.wickedlocal.com/sto... to read my weekly Stoneham Sun column.
This week: "WE WANT TO SUPPORT EVERYTHING"

Watch the re-broadcast of the monthly Stoneham TV show, "Thinking Stoneham", on Comcast 9, RCN 3, and Verizon 34.
This month: "MIDDLESEX FELLS RESERVE / DCR" (airing Wednesday, June 25, 7:30 p.m.)
This month's guests include Lynn Hildenbrand, Visitor Center Coordinator, Middlesex Fells Reserve and others.

   Upcoming government meetings:    

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS MEETING
(Re: proposed cell tower at St. Patrick Cemetery):
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25 at 7PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St., Hearing Room

(If you would like to sign a petition opposing the proposed cell tower at St. Patrick Cemetery, please contact The Start Coalition at stonehamstart@yahoo.com)

BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING:
TUESDAY, JULY 8 at 7PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St., Hearing Room

SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING:
THURSDAY, JULY 24 at 7PM, Stoneham High School Library, 149 Franklin St.

Upcoming community events:    

Posted June 19, 2008:
North Suburban Family Network Picnic and Concert:
Friday, June 20, 5:30-7PM, Steel Park (behind Stoneham Town Hall, 35 Central St.)
"Toe Jam Puppet Band" performs for children. The network will announce its Red Sox raffle winner at 7PM.
For information call (781) 662-2722.

Posted June 5, 2008:
BJ's Wholesale Club/Stoneham Recreation Fund Raiser:
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Friday, June 20
Join or renew before through this special offer and receive a $10 discount off the regular membership fee (originally $45), 3 free months of membership (15 months in total), and a free household member card.
BJ's will donate $5 to Stoneham Recreation for each membership.
Contact Christine DelRossi (cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us) at Stoneham Recreation for an application.

Posted May 1, 2008:
Final class date for Stoneham public schools (grades 9-11):
Friday, June 20

Posted May 29, 2008:
New England Mountain Bike Association's Kids Ride Series:
Saturday, June 21, 10:30AM to12:30PM, Flynn Rink, Medford
Certified leaders take kids on a 3-mile bike loop. Parents welcome to ride.
All riders must have their own bicycle.
Contact Lynn Hildenbrand at (781) 662-5214 or lynn.hildenbrand@state.ma.us for information.

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

Posted June 3, 2008:
"Late Nite Catechism":
Runs through Sunday, June 22, Stoneham Theatre, 395 Main Street
Tickets: $40 for adults, $35 for seniors, and $20 for students.

Posted May 29, 2008:
Stoneham Recreation Weekly Summer Education Classes (students entering K-2):
Monday, June 23 through Monday, August 18, Town Hall Banquet Room, 35 Central Street
Session I: 8:30-9:45AM, Science-Exploration Literacy
Session II: 9:45-11AM, Mathematically Thinking
Cost: $135 for one session, $265 for both.

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 May 1, 2008:
Boys & Girls Club of Stoneham 6th Annual Joseph P. Padur Memorial Golf Tournament:
Monday, June 23, 1PM shotgun, Bear Hill Golf Club, single golfers to foursomes welcome.
Contact organizers at bcgsgolftournament@verizon.net for information.

Posted June 19, 2008:
Stoneham Public Library "Wild About Reading":
Thursday, June 24, 11AM-noon, Marcy Room, Stoneham Public Library, 431 Main St.
"Bates & Tincknell" performs.

Posted May 29, 2008:
Stoneham Recreation Weekly Summer Education Classes (students entering gr. 3-4):
Wednesday, June 25 through Wednesday, August 20, Town Hall Banquet Room, 35 Central Street
Session I: 8:30-9:45AM, Science-Exploration Literacy
Session II: 9:45-11AM, Mathematically Thinking
Cost: $135 for one session, $265 for both.

Posted June 19, 2008:
"Thinking Stoneham" TV show:
Wednesday, June 25, 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 June 19, 2008:
Stoneham Chamber of Commerce Summer Concert Series:
Thursday, June 26, 7PM, Town Common, 35 Central St.
"The Continentals" perform.

Posted June 19, 2008:
Book Signing:
Saturday, June 28, 1-3PM, Book Oasis, 311 Main St.
Author Carol Katinoglou signs her children's book, "A Gift From Chloe", a true story based on the life of a cat. Chloe plush toys are also available at Book Oasis.
Call (781) 438-0077 for information.

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.

Posted May 29, 2008:
Spartan Sports Club with Steve Rolli (for ages 7-12):
Monday, July 7 to Friday, July 11, 9AM-1PM, Recreation Park (off Dale Court)
Sports: baseball, soccer, wiffle ball, kickball, obstacle course, and flag football.
Cost: $150 per child, $110 per sibling

Posted May 29, 2008:
Spartan Baseball with Steve Rolli (for ages 7-12):
Monday, July 7 to Friday, July 11, 9AM-1PM, Recreation Park (off Dale Court)
Sports: baseball, soccer, wiffle ball, kickball, obstacle course, and flag football.
Cost: $150 per child, $110 per sibling
Contact Christine DelRossi (Stoneham Recreation) at cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us to register.

Posted June 19, 2008:
Stoneham Chamber of Commerce Summer Concert Series:
Thursday, July 10, 7PM, Town Common, 35 Central St.
"Velvet Elvis" performs.

Posted June 19, 2008:
Stoneham Youth Basketball Online Registration (Grades 2-12):
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Friday, July 11
Registration fees begin at $75 (for 2nd grade clinic). Town League ($125) and Travel League ($250) programs are also available. Town League family cap: $250
Visit www.stonehamyouthbasketball.org for information.

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

Posted June 19, 2008:
Stoneham Chamber of Commerce Summer Concert Series:
Thursday, July 17, 7PM, Town Common, 35 Central St.
"Peking & The Mystics" performs.

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

Posted June 19, 2008:
Stoneham Chamber of Commerce Summer Concert Series:
Thursday, July 24, 7PM, Town Common, 35 Central St.
"Seabreeze" performs.

"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 June 19, 2008:
Stoneham Chamber of Commerce Summer Concert Series:
Thursday, July 31, 7PM, Town Common, 35 Central St.
"Wolverine Jazz Band" performs.

Posted June 19, 2008:
Stoneham Town Day reservations:
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Friday, August 1
Contact info@stonehamchamber.org or visit www.stonehamchamber.org for information.

Posted June 19, 2008:
Stoneham Chamber of Commerce Summer Concert Series:
Thursday, August 7, 7PM, Town Common, 35 Central St.
"John Penny Band" performs.

Posted June 19, 2008:
Spartan Soccer School (ages 5-12):
Monday, August 11 to Friday, August 15, from 9AM-noon, Stoneham High School soccer fields. Cost is $100 for one child with "family discount" options available.
SHS varsity coaches Jim Carino and Sharon Chapman direct the school.
Contact Christine DelRossi (Stoneham Recreation) at cdelrossi@ci.stoneham.ma.us to register.

Posted June 19, 2008:
Stoneham Chamber of Commerce Summer Concert Series:
Thursday, August 14, 7PM, Town Common, 35 Central St.
"U.S. Air Force Band of Liberty" performs.

Posted June 19, 2008:
Stoneham Town Day Celebration (25th Anniversary):
Saturday, September 13, Town Common, 35 Central St.

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:
"Stoneham English for All" is still looking for tutors to work with adults in our community who want to learn English or improve their speaking and writing skills. To learn more about volunteer tutoring and training, email Ben Jacques at bjacq@juno.com.

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.

5/8 Town Meeting Summary (Night Two)

by: Randy Perillo

Sun May 11, 2008 at 23:40:04 PM 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 second night of Town Meeting on May 8, 2008. Here are the highlights:

Town Clerk John Hanright apologized to Town Meeting for his actions of Night One, where he showed his backside to citizen John DeGeorge. Hanright said he let his emotions get the better of him.

Town Meeting passed Article 33, concerning the $58,574,358 (not including $205,000 drawn from Stabilization to support Article 6 regarding Stoneham Public Library). The level-funded budget allows the School Department to avoid financially driven teacher layoffs for the first time in years. The Stoneham Public Library will retain its state certification.

Town Meeting passed Article 26, allowing up to $155,000 in repair work for boards and glass at Stoneham Arena. Town Meeting also passed Article 32, proposed by resident John DeGeorge, regarding an automatic shift of "free cash" into Stabilization for fiscal 2008 (ending 6/30).

Town Meeting indefinitely postponed three of the six Special Town Meeting articles, but did pass Special Article 3 regarding littering, Special Article 4 regarding a wireless service provider leasing space in the SFD bell tower, and Special Article 6 regarding an amendment to the feasibility study for expansion at Stoneham Arena.

8:01 Article 19 fails:

Town Meeting opposed authorizing a special "revolving" account for Stoneham Arena concessions, vending, pro shop, and ad fees. In such a revolving account, department heads (in this case the rink manager) do not require Town Meeting approval to spend funds, only Town Administrator approval.

Finance and Advisory Board member John DeAmicis said that the money earned at the golf course does not belong to the golf course, the money earned at the arena does not belong to the arena, building fees do not belong to the building department, traffic fines do not belong to the police department, etc. He also praised Town Clerk John Hanright for not proposing to set up a special account for passport revenue generated at the Town Clerk's office. DeAmicis said that all revenues belong to the town and its voters and should be in the general fund.

Citizen Kevin Dolan said the account would be a good idea in this case as the arena pays for itself annually and deserves to have a portion of its receipts go toward repair and maintenance.

Citizen Edie Previdi asked for non-resident and rink manager Lou Chiulli to answer questions from Town Meeting voters. I asked Chiulli how much the account would have generated last year. Finance and Advisory Board member John Bowen answered the question: $24,600.

Voters agreed with DeAmicis and the Finance and Advisory Board's position and opposed authorization of this account by a 76-68 vote (indicating Town Meeting attendance of at least 144 voters, less than 2 percent of all registered voters.)

8:06 Article 20 fails:

This article proposed to re-authorize a revolving account for recycling.

Finance and Advisory Board member John Bowen said that the account only generated $985 last year and the Board did not think it was necessary to have an account that generated less than $1,000.

Citizen Peter D'Angelo said that he has concerns about revolving accounts and that the existing auditing procedures of the general fund work best.

Town Meeting voters agreed that there's no need for this account.

8:07 Article 21 postponed indefinitely:

The article to re-authorize a revolving account for office space rental at the Stoneham Senior Center no longer required attention as Town Meeting voters passed Article 17 (on Monday night) to lease the Senior Center to a non-profit organization.

8:17 Article 22 passes:

The Board of Selectmen modified their original proposal for this article, limiting the revolving account associated with the Stoneham Fire Department rental revenue to only the revenue associated with Action Ambulance renting a portion of the SFD.

Chief Joe Rolle said that the rent totaled $18,000 last year. He said the rental agreement intended to use the money for repair and maintenance at the SFD. Rolle told Town Meeting that the building is 92 years old, a new station would cost $15 million to construct, and without this agreement the SFD would have only $1,000 in this year's budget for maintenance.

Rolle noted that 90 percent of people in town have never been in the SFD and they do not know the need to improve it. Rolle added that there's no written agreement with Action Ambulance, but he feels bound by the handshake agreement with the ambulance company.

8:20 Article 23 passes:

Town Meeting approved re-authorization of a revolving account for Stoneham Recreation. Selectman Paul Rotondi said that the department's budget has been cut to ZERO, but the programs continue to run through self-funding programs. Rotondi gave credit to Director Christine DelRossi for her work in the successful department.

SPD Chief Richard Bongiorno added that SPD received an anonymous gift recently and would like to donate a portion of that money to Stoneham Recreation.

8:21 Article 24 postponed indefinitely:

This article called to re-authorize a revolving account for Senior Center transportation costs. With the passage of Article 17, leasing the Senior Center to a non-profit organization, the account is no longer needed.

8:26 Article 25 passes:

This article made amendments to some accounts for fiscal 2008 (7/30/07-6/30/08). This is done at Town Meeting each year to balance the current year's budget. The $172,500 snow removal deficit is among the reasons for the necessary amendments.

Some of the savings that allowed for a balanced budget come from an employee in the Assessor's office dropping Town health coverage, the Assistant Treasurer position remaining open for some time in fiscal 2008, and Fire Department, Board of Health, and Council on Aging vacancies.

Changes amounted to just $46,250, a very small amount on a budget of $50-$60 million.

8:29 Article 26 passes:

Town Meeting approved funds ($100,000 according to Selectmen Chairman John DePinto) to pay for the costs of Interim Year Adjustments for real estate. Selectman DePinto said this is the second of a three-year program to re-evaluate property in Stoneham.

8:33 Article 27 passes:

The article called for up to $155,000 for Stoneham Arena's rink to repair boards and glass. Selectman Richard Gregorio said that the rink is in pretty bad shape. Employees and others could be at risk of harm and the Town needs to make these repairs.

Finance and Advisory Board member John Bowen said the $155,000 represents the "upper end" of repair expense projections. Bowen said it's likely that the repairs only require $130,000. Bowen, in response to a question from citizen Marcia Wengen, said that municipal bonds that would raise the funds require just a 3-4 percent interest rate, less than individuals qualify for when borrowing. Gregorio noted that town's do not raise bonds for specific items, but instead ask for one some each year to cover all borrowing. The town, according to Gregorio, gets a good term and a good rate.

8:35 Article 28 postponed indefinitely:

School Committee Chairperson Marie Christie moved that Town Meeting postpone replacing original sections of the Stoneham High School roof. She says the town hopes to re-apply for state funding for this program if and when it becomes available again.

8:36 Article 29 passes:

Town Meeting approved appropriating $30,000 for the purpose of improving Lindenwood Cemetery by hiring part-time help and purchasing equipment.

8:38 Article 30 passes:

Town Meeting passed a $250,000 request for replacing portions of Town water mains. The town replaces such mains on a 75-year schedule, but has fallen short of reaching this goal in some years, including last year. The replacement is part of a proactive program that aims to prevent major damage that could lead to very expense repair costs.

8:40 Article 31 passes:

This article is very similar to Article 30. Town Meeting approved $250,000 to replacing Town sewers also.

8:45 Article 32 passes:

Citizen John DeGeorge received Town Meeting approval again to place "free cash," the combination of revenues and savings that exceed initial budget projections, into the Town's Stabilization account, an account funded to pay for emergency needs. The Stabilization account holds $1.2 million after the $205,000 withdraw from Stabilization to increase the Stoneham Public Library budget to the necessary level that maintains state certification.

Last October, DeGeorge sponsored an article to petition the State Legislature to automatically place Stoneham's "free cash" into Stabilization. Town Meeting approved the action last year, but the Legislature has yet to approve the action.

10:43 Article 33 passes:

The Board of Selectmen approved a $411,000 increase in revenues that allowed the Town to nearly meet all level funding for services (with the exception of approximately $77,000 under funding of Stoneham Public Schools).

The Board said that the State Legislature has yet to finalize its budget and the budget cycle is still an "evolving process." The Board feels the "contingencies" will fund the gap of nearly $500,000.

Just minutes before Town Meeting restarted, the Finance and Advisory Board met and reviewed the new sources that allowed the Board of Selectmen to increase the budget amount by $411,000.

Finance and Advisory Chairman John Warren said that the bulk of the money comes from Medicaid Part D revision ($50,000), a "B&M" settlement ($90,000), a change in interest investment income ($160,000), and an increase in motor vehicle excise tax collections ($94,000), among others.

School Superintendent Les Olson says that this balanced budget will allow Stoneham Public Schools to avoid mass layoffs for financial reasons for the first time in years.

The total budget, including $205,000 withdrawn from Stabilization (for the SPL funding associated with Article 6) totals close to $58.5 million.

Selectman Rotondi said that over the past years he's repeatedly asked to create a "base of services." He says this is not the greatest base, but it's a base. We know what this level of services should cost the town and we can grow from this point and plan for improvements. He said this level-funded budget (that does not include a trash fee) is a "big step forward."

A disappointingly low turnout for the second night of Town Meeting did not prevent many citizens and Town officials from speaking their minds during budget debate. Citizens Paula Wilson, Marisa Raczkowski, Peter D'Angelo, Jim Juliano, Sr., Frank Pignone, Bill Previdi, Jim Sinclair, Tom Ribaudo, Jill Kennedy, Chris Willard, Toni Mansfield, Edie Previdi, Bill Reilly, John DeAmicis, Marcia Wengen, and me (Randy Perillo), former Selectman Tony Kennedy, Board of Health Chairman Dan Doherty, SPL Director Mary Todd, SPL Trustees Michael Rora and Jane Francis, School Committee members David Maurer, Shelly MacNeill, Joe Viselli, Police Chief Richard Bongiorno, Selectmen Bob Sweeney, Richard Gregorio, and John DePinto (Selectman Frank Vallarelli continued to recover from surgery and did not attend the meeting. Again, I wish Mr. Vallarelli a speedy recovery.)

State Representative Paul Casey addressed Town Meeting for the first and likely last time in his 18-year tenure. I asked Mr. Casey to update Town Meeting voters on the status of the House of Representative's position on allowing all Massachusetts towns to enter into the state's insurance program (the GIC) without union approval.

Forgive me for not recapping the statements of all these individuals in this message. I hope to quote many of them in my upcoming Stoneham Sun column. I admire their courage for speaking up for what they want for themselves and our town.

10:45 Special Article 1 postponed indefinitely:

This article proposed to expand the Town Administrator's supervisory role over Town employees who now report to elected part-time boards, such as the Library Board of Trustees, the Planning Board, etc.

10:47 Special Article 2 postponed indefinitely:

This article called for Town oversight of sidewalk newspaper boxes and the like. Selectman Rotondi said that a specific incident generated the idea, but the Town has handled that incident.

Citizen Marcia Wengen said that she would like the Town to pursue this issue again in the future, as she believes it's a good idea. Rotondi said that Town Consul Bill Solomon is working on a more complete resolution.

10:59 Special Article 3 passes:

This article creates an anti-littering by-law in Stoneham. Citizen Edie Previdi noted graffiti on telephone poles and boxes and elsewhere as an eyesore and asked if the telephone companies have responsibility to clean those poles, etc. Selectmen Rotondi asked Previdi to attend a Board of Selectmen's meeting to discuss the issue, as the Board could not answer the question without research.

Town Consul Bill Solomon said the town has graffiti by-laws, but no litter by-laws until passage of this article.

Citizen Jeanne Craigie asked who would enforce the by-law. Solomon said SPD would do that.

SPD Chief Richard Bongiorno said that under Massachusetts General Laws his officers take action against littering.

11:02 Special Article 4 passes:

This article proposed to allow Stoneham Fire Department to lease its bell tower space to a wireless service provider. The Board of Selectmen could negotiate the lease terms. Currently, there are no negotiations. The Town could gain $20,000 annually from such a lease.

The original article mentioned Stoneham Arena as a possible location for a similar lease, but the motion at Town Meeting did not include the arena.

11:02 Special Article 5 postponed indefinitely:

This article called for a lease of Stoneham Arena to a management company.

11:05 Special Article 6 passes:

This article amends Article 4 of the October 2007 Special Town Meeting. The original article called for funding for a feasibility study on expansion at Stoneham Arena. The Town will test the pipes below the arena's ice rink. If the test shows deterioration (the rink is 34 years old), the Town would take a different view of possible expansion at the arena. The study could provide the Town with enough information to be proactive and avoid a breakdown and loss of revenue at the arena.

Thank you for your time,

Randy

Visit   http://www.wickedlocal.com/sto... to read my weekly Stoneham Sun column.
This week: "ROCK OUT FOR A CAUSE THIS FRIDAY"

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, May 14, 7:30 p.m.)
This month's guests include SHS Athletic Director David Pignone and Stoneham Recreation Director Christine DelRossi.

   Upcoming government meetings:    

SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING:
THURSDAY, MAY 15 at 7PM, Stoneham High School Library, 149 Franklin St.

BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING:
TUESDAY, MAY 20 at 7PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St., Hearing Room

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

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS MEETING
(re: proposed cell tower at St. Patrick Cemetery):
THURSDAY, MAY 29 at 7:30PM, Town Hall, 35 Central St., Hearing Room  

Upcoming community events:    

Posted May 1, 2008:
Stoneham Community Blood Drive:
Tuesday, May 13, from 2-7PM, Town Hall, 35 Central Street
GIVE A PINT GET A PIZZA! Uno Chicago Grill will provide a pizza coupon for all donors.
Contact the American Red Cross at (800) 448-3543 or www.givelife.org to schedule an appointment to donate.
Please bring valid ID. Donors must be 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 lbs., and be in good health.

Posted May 10, 2008:
"Thinking Stoneham" TV show:
Wednesday, May 14, 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 May 10, 2008:
"Drop-in Craft Hours"
Thursday, May 15 and Friday, May 16, 2:30-4PM,Stoneham Public Library.
No registration required.
Contact Stoneham Public Library Junior Room for information (781) 438-1325.

Posted May 10, 2008:
Meet authors Hallie Ephron and Donald Davidoff (Dr. Peter Zak medical mystery series)
Thursday, May 15, 7PM, Stoneham Public Library.
Friends of the Stoneham Public Library sponsor this event and others in the SPL author series.
The event is free and open to the public.

Posted May 10, 2008:
"Donuts with Dad":
Saturday, May 17, 10:30AM (children 3-6, siblings welcome), Stoneham Public Library.
Contact Stoneham Public Library Junior Room to register (781) 438-1325.

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 May 10, 2008:
Boys' Track, Stoneham vs. Reading:
Monday, May 19, 3:30pm, Boys Track, Rocher-Fillback track, Stoneham High School, 149 Franklin St.

Posted May 10, 2008:
Girls' Tennis, Stoneham vs. Reading:
Monday, May 19, 3:30pm, tennis courts, Stoneham High School, 149 Franklin St.

Posted May 10, 2008:
Baseball and Softball Stoneham vs. Reading:
Monday, May 19, 3:45pm, athletic fields, Stoneham High School, 149 Franklin St.

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

Posted May 10, 2008:
Stoneham Memorial Day Parade:
Monday, May 26, 10AM, parade leaves from St. Patrick Cemetery, Elm St.
A graveside ceremony precedes the parade.

Posted May 6, 2008:
Stoneham Scouts Collecting and Properly Retiring U.S. Flags:
Ongoing through May 30. Stoneham scouts are collecting worn U.S. flag for proper retirement.
Contact Daniel Kevin Faulkner at (781) 245-9874 or dkf1234@aol.com for information.

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.

Posted May 1, 2008:
SHS Class of 2008 graduation:
Friday, June 6

Posted May 1, 2008:
Final class date for Stoneham public schools (grades K-8):
Wednesday, June 18

Posted May 1, 2008:
Final class date for Stoneham public schools (grades 9-11):
Friday, June 20

"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 May 1, 2008:
Boys & Girls Club of Stoneham 6th Annual Joseph P. Padur Memorial Golf Tournament:
Monday, June 23, 1PM shotgun, Bear Hill Golf Club, single golfers to foursomes welcome.
Contact organizers at bcgsgolftournament@verizon.net for information.

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.

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 p