http://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/news/lifestyle/columnists/x2025178527/Steps-spokes-Rail-trail-opens

Steps & spokes: Rail trail opensSteps & spokes: Rail trail opens

By Karen TaylorThu Sep 03, 2009

CHELMSFORD - The Chelmsford Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee(BPAC) is excited about the Aug. 29, ribbon cutting and grand opening of Phase1 of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, part of the larger Bay Circuit Trail and Green-way. It has culminated after more than 20 years of planning and hard work bymany organizations and individuals involved throughout the entire developmentof this wonderful recreational trail. The BPAC would like to thank all of those keyorganizations that made the trail possible for the residents of Chelmsford.

This 6.8-mile section of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail from Cross Point Towers in Lowell, to Route 225 inWestford, is a wonderful multi-use trail beckoning all to enjoy this local treasure. If you, your family, orfriends have the pleasure of an outing on the trail, the BPAC wants to remind users of some safety meas-ures to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time on the trail. If planning to driving to the trail to ac-cess it, be certain to park in a designated area, as many intersecting streets do not allow for on streetparking. Designated parking areas in Chelmsford are located at the Old Town Hall, the Municipal Lot,Pond Street and Byam School, after school hours.

Trail reminders for pedestrians· Keep to the right when possible.· Pets must be under the owner’s control at all times. Keep pets on a leash as a bike can come up frombehind fast, and a loose dog poses a hazard. The leash should be no longer than 6 feet. Clean up afteryour dog.· If walking side by side, be aware of oncoming bikes or skaters approaching from both directions. Moveto the right and fall in single file to allow safe passage.· If you hear an individual call out that they are passing from behind, stay to the right.

Reminders for bikers and skaters· Bikers and skaters should yield the right-of-way to walkers.· Ride single file.· Call out and announce your intent when passing from behind. A polite “on your left” is sufficient. Keep inmind that pets and young children tend to quickly change direction without looking for oncoming individu-als behind them, and very well may not realize you are approaching from behind.· Wear protective headgear. Approved helmets are the law for anyone 16 years of age or younger.· Keep a reasonable and safe speed when using the trail. Bikers and skaters are responsible for staying incontrol at all times.· Dismount and walk bicycles across crosswalks.

Reminders for all· Stop at all intersecting streets, look both ways and proceed only when safe to do so.· Obey all traffic control signs and signals, especially at larger intersections.· Be considerate to all trail “neighbors.” Stay on the designated trail, as much of the land on either side ofthe trail is privately owned.· Respect the wildlife around the trail. Do not damage, destroy or removeany portion of the habitat of any species of wildlife.· Carry out any trash you may accumulate along the trail.· If stopping along the trail, be certain to step to the side of the trail to allowother users to safely pass by.· Utilize designated signals at crossings in Chelmsford Center.We hope you enjoy the trail; a safe alternative to walking and biking on theroads.

Residents protest 40B planResidents protest 40B planfor wetland areafor wetland areahttp://www.lowellsun.com/local/ci_13340163By Rita Savard, rsavard@lowellsun.com

09/15/2009

CHELMSFORD -- Charlie Whiting doesn't believe good things always come in small packages.Whiting, of 8 Arlington Road, and nearly two dozen others, packed into the selectmen's meeting last nightto protest a 40B project they say is using the affordable-housing law to circumvent town bylaws to build onprotected wetlands.

Developer Glenn Kohl of Chelmsford has requested to construct a two-family Gambrel-style house locatedon Arlington Street. The 72,300-square-foot parcel is mostly wetlands. Kohl's attorney, Joseph Shanahan,said Kohl is seeking to build the two, three-bedroom units on 12,000 feet of upland.

The 40B law gives developers the freedom to skirt local zoning regulations in communities where less than10 percent of the housing stock is classified as affordable. Developers must agree to sell 25 percent of thehousing units at affordable prices.

Although building on wetlands is prohibited, the 40B law allows developers adding to a community's afford-able-housing stock some wiggle room.

"Without 40B, you could never build anything on this lotWithout 40B, you could never build anything on this lot," Shanahan told selectmen.

State Sen. Robert Hedlund, a Weymouth Republican, recently filed a bill to require 40B projects to meetlocal wetlands bylaws, following a proposal to build a project along Salt Marsh in Scituate.

Shanahan told selectmen that towns that shoot down 40B projects based on local wetlands bylaws are typ-ically overruled at the state level in conjunction with the state law on affordable housing.

A petition signed by 65 registered voters opposing Kohl's project was presented to selectmen last night.

Whiting and others said even the "uplands" section of the parcel is visibly wet.

"We were just up there today and were able to fill a bottle of water in that area that's supposedWe were just up there today and were able to fill a bottle of water in that area that's supposedto be uplandto be upland," Whiting said. "When you can do that, it's not rightWhen you can do that, it's not right."

Shanahan said one unit would be rented at market rate for about $1,205, and the other at an affordablerate for about $883. Both units would count toward the town's affordable-housing stock.

Kohl filed his application as a Local Initiative Program (LIP). Under an LIP, a developer works with town offi-cials and abutters in a cooperative manner to gain approval. In the end, a LIP is endorsed by the local mu-nicipality.

Selectmen said they will revisit the proposal at theirSelectmen said they will revisit the proposal at their Oct. 5Oct. 5 meeting.meeting.

CLICK HERECLICK HEREto hear from residents & abutters of the proposalto hear from residents & abutters of the proposal

PROPOSED 40B SITE TOURPROPOSED 40B SITE TOURby Tom ChristianoSeptember 20, 2009

In an effort to better understand the proposed two unit 40B Glenn Kohldevelopment off of Fair Street and Arlington Street, I was given a tour ofthe site by Precinct six Town Meeting Representative Colleen Stansfield.

Colleen had toured this site previously with our Town Manager andJoe Shanahan (a representative of the developer).

A few photos of the site are shown to give you an ideawhat this area looks like now.

At the end of Fair Street there is a small fenced in town utility service area,as shown in one of the photos.

The closest abutter's house, on 9 ArlingtonStreet, is also shown, along with the grassyarea next to this home which is owned bythe town.

The proposed new road anddriveway would by located inthat area.

Colleen gave me a GIS map of this area (available on our town website CLICK HERECLICK HERE) which shows thatthe largest portion of this proposed 40B site is designated wetlands, and the reminder of this particular par-cel is within the 50 foot wetlands buffer zone, which means that under our town zoning bylaws, no housingcan be built on this land.

That's why the owner of this property is pro-posing a 40B two unit development, as the40B Law allows developers to build in areasnot normally allowed under existing zoning by-laws, as long as at least 25% of the develop-ment is designated as affordable housing.This particular proposal is for rental housing,with one unit designated as affordable and theother unit as market rate.

Photos By Tom Christiano

Submitted by John BelskisJohn Belskis

Another 40B optionAnother 40B optionFor those of you whose Town has yet to establish Inclusionary Zoning with perpetuity,For those of you whose Town has yet to establish Inclusionary Zoning with perpetuity,I'd like to pass along two issues I raised at the 40B hearing.I'd like to pass along two issues I raised at the 40B hearing.

If your ZBA is engaged in a comprehensive permit situation, it could influence theIf your ZBA is engaged in a comprehensive permit situation, it could influence theprocess if you formally present that a State Law defines "affordable housing" with aprocess if you formally present that a State Law defines "affordable housing" with astipulation that it must have a Registry of Deeds filing committing the affordable units tostipulation that it must have a Registry of Deeds filing committing the affordable units to45 years.45 years.This definition is found in MGL Ch 60 Section 1.This definition is found in MGL Ch 60 Section 1.http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/60-1.htmhttp://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/60-1.htm

As another item to be entered into the hearing, you may want to inform the ZBA thatAs another item to be entered into the hearing, you may want to inform the ZBA thatdespite 40B regulations (they can't overrule State law) the Town's assessor must be madedespite 40B regulations (they can't overrule State law) the Town's assessor must be madeaware that per MGL Ch 59 Sec 52.aware that per MGL Ch 59 Sec 52. http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/59-52.htmhttp://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/59-52.htm anyanyfiling of tax base assessment must be based on its full and fair cash value, or his signingfiling of tax base assessment must be based on its full and fair cash value, or his signingmay make him subject to a perjury finding. As common practice, 40B affordable units aremay make him subject to a perjury finding. As common practice, 40B affordable units arebeing assessed at the affordable price which is lower than the market rate valuationsbeing assessed at the affordable price which is lower than the market rate valuationsthereby detracting from the town's tax revenue.thereby detracting from the town's tax revenue.

************************************************************************************************************************************************************************As reported by Banker & Tradesman Attorney General CoakleyAs reported by Banker & Tradesman Attorney General Coakleytoday filed suit against the Acton Developer for falsifying costtoday filed suit against the Acton Developer for falsifying coststatements and profits.statements and profits.

We have given Inspector General Sullivan similar examplesWe have given Inspector General Sullivan similar examplesand perhaps this could be the first of a number of suits.and perhaps this could be the first of a number of suits.

If this doesn't wave a red flag at predatory developers,If this doesn't wave a red flag at predatory developers,I don't know what will.I don't know what will.

For those of you whose Town has had projects certified but notFor those of you whose Town has had projects certified but notaudited this shows tha documentation by the developer must beaudited this shows tha documentation by the developer must beclosely supervised as apparently certification is not sufficient toclosely supervised as apparently certification is not sufficient toexpose incorrect charges.expose incorrect charges.

****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

AG sues builder of low-cost unitsAG sues builder of low-cost unitsAccused of padding profitsAccused of padding profits

By Christine McConville | Friday, September 18, 2009By Christine McConville | Friday, September 18, 2009

Attorney General Martha Coakley is going after affordable housing developers for allegedly paddingAttorney General Martha Coakley is going after affordable housing developers for allegedly paddingtheir profits on a controversial complex in Acton - the first legal action by a Massachusetts top coptheir profits on a controversial complex in Acton - the first legal action by a Massachusetts top copsince the state’s inspector general launched a probe of such projects five years ago.since the state’s inspector general launched a probe of such projects five years ago.

Coakley announced yesterday that her office filed a civil lawsuit against Crossroads DevelopmentCoakley announced yesterday that her office filed a civil lawsuit against Crossroads DevelopmentLLC, a company controlled by James Fenton and Michael Jeanson that built a 12-unit complex at 244LLC, a company controlled by James Fenton and Michael Jeanson that built a 12-unit complex at 244Main St. in Acton. The suit, filed in Middlesex Superior Court, says the developers violated the state’sMain St. in Acton. The suit, filed in Middlesex Superior Court, says the developers violated the state’sFalse Claims Act by falsifying cost statements and profits for the project.False Claims Act by falsifying cost statements and profits for the project.

Inspector General Gregory Sullivan started probing potential abuses of the state’sInspector General Gregory Sullivan started probing potential abuses of the state’sChapter 40B affordable housing law in 2004. He first raised questions aboutChapter 40B affordable housing law in 2004. He first raised questions aboutCrossroads in 2006, claiming Fenton and Jeanson inflated expenses and skirtedCrossroads in 2006, claiming Fenton and Jeanson inflated expenses and skirtedthe law’s profit limits.the law’s profit limits.

The probe prompted the town of Acton to sue the developers in October 2007 andThe probe prompted the town of Acton to sue the developers in October 2007 anddemand a payment of $763,000. Sullivan issued a follow-up report on Crossroads ademand a payment of $763,000. Sullivan issued a follow-up report on Crossroads ayear ago and referred the case to Coakley’s office.year ago and referred the case to Coakley’s office.

Diane McGlynn, the developers’ lawyer, did not respond to a request for comment.Diane McGlynn, the developers’ lawyer, did not respond to a request for comment.

John Belskiswill be a guest onPolitically IncorrectPolitically IncorrectOctober 6th

The 40-year-old Chapter 40B law encourages affordable housing development by relaxing zoning rulesThe 40-year-old Chapter 40B law encourages affordable housing development by relaxing zoning rulesfor developers who set aside a portion of the unit for lower-income residents. But the law alsofor developers who set aside a portion of the unit for lower-income residents. But the law alsorequires 40B developers to limit profits, generally to 20 percent of total project costs.requires 40B developers to limit profits, generally to 20 percent of total project costs.

Excess profits are typically required to be given to the community, for the creation of more lower-costExcess profits are typically required to be given to the community, for the creation of more lower-costhousing.housing.

“It’s extremely disturbing that money that could have gone to build more affordable housing lined“It’s extremely disturbing that money that could have gone to build more affordable housing lineddevelopers’ pockets,” said Sen. Jamie Eldridge, an Acton Democrat.developers’ pockets,” said Sen. Jamie Eldridge, an Acton Democrat.

John Belskis, a critic of the Chapter 40B law who has questioned why state authorities haven’tJohn Belskis, a critic of the Chapter 40B law who has questioned why state authorities haven’tcracked down on developers, said he was pleased by Coakley’s move.cracked down on developers, said he was pleased by Coakley’s move.

But he wondered why it took so long for Coakley, who recently launched a campaign for U.S. Senate,But he wondered why it took so long for Coakley, who recently launched a campaign for U.S. Senate,to take action on the inspector general’s probe.to take action on the inspector general’s probe.

“I bet when they started getting into the paperwork, they didn’t have much of a choice,” he said.“I bet when they started getting into the paperwork, they didn’t have much of a choice,” he said.

A Coakley spokeswoman said the AG’s office started its own investigation as soon as it received theA Coakley spokeswoman said the AG’s office started its own investigation as soon as it received thereferral from Sullivan’s office.referral from Sullivan’s office.

Sullivan has said that unscrupulous 40B developers may owe Bay State communities as much as $100Sullivan has said that unscrupulous 40B developers may owe Bay State communities as much as $100million in ill-gained profits.million in ill-gained profits.

In the Acton case, Sullivan began investigating the pair’s profit reports, which were submitted to theIn the Acton case, Sullivan began investigating the pair’s profit reports, which were submitted to thetown in 2005. Sullivan’s team found that they bolstered costs by billing the project for carpeting thattown in 2005. Sullivan’s team found that they bolstered costs by billing the project for carpeting thatone of the partners installed in his private New Hampshire vacation home and by paying their ownone of the partners installed in his private New Hampshire vacation home and by paying their owncompanies well above competitive rates for project work.companies well above competitive rates for project work.

Fenton and Jeanson’s legal troubles aren’t limited to Acton. In 2002, the neighboring town of BoxboroFenton and Jeanson’s legal troubles aren’t limited to Acton. In 2002, the neighboring town of Boxborosued them for $2.4 million, saying they padded the books when reporting profits on Boxboroughsued them for $2.4 million, saying they padded the books when reporting profits on BoxboroughMeadows, another 40B development. The developers settled the case for $1.2 million.Meadows, another 40B development. The developers settled the case for $1.2 million.

The developers are known for their charitable works. Last year, they were featured on ABC’s “ExtremeThe developers are known for their charitable works. Last year, they were featured on ABC’s “ExtremeMakeover: Home Edition” reality TV show renovating a home for a disabled man and his family inMakeover: Home Edition” reality TV show renovating a home for a disabled man and his family inMaynard.Maynard.

Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/business/general/view.bg?articleid=1198297Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/business/general/view.bg?articleid=1198297

New Season, New Shows

Poli t ical ly InCorrectPoli t ical ly InCorrectwith

Tom “The Godfather” ChristianoGuests on theSeptember 8th show include

Jon KurlandJon Kurland -Candidate for Selectman

Matt HansonMatt Hanson -Candidate for Selectman

Mary FrantzMary Frantz -Chairman - Finance Committee

Steve RobertsSteve Roberts -Chairman - Old Town Halls Study Committee

Matt SheehanMatt Sheehan -

Town Meeting Rep. Precinct 3

Topics :The two October 6th townwide ballot questions?(1) DPW facility purchase and construction,at a cost of up to $13 million.(2) Fire Station headquarters facility designand construction, at a cost of up to $12 million.

The local Option taxes, which are scheduled to gointo effect in Chelmsford on October 1st.

Trouble at Varney Park?

CLICK HERECLICK HEREfor Video of the entire showfor Video of the entire show

NEXT TIME ONNEXT TIME ON

Poli t ical ly InCorrectPoli t ical ly InCorrectTuesday 9/22 thru Sunday 10/4Tuesday 9/22 thru Sunday 10/4

The PROS and CONS of theproposed new DPW facilityand new Center Fire Station

Guests to include :Guests to include :

Jim Parrow - Fire ChiefJim Parrow - Fire Chief

Jim Pearson - DPW DirectorJim Pearson - DPW Director

Mary Tiano - TM Rep Pct. 8Mary Tiano - TM Rep Pct. 8

Debbie Derry - TM Rep Pct.6Debbie Derry - TM Rep Pct.6

Poli t ical ly InCorrectPoli t ical ly InCorrectTues & Weds 8:30 PM;

Thurs 7:00 AM;Sundays 11:00 AM

Chelmsford Cable TVChannel 8

Dennis Ready’s Town TalkTown Talk

Paul Cohen talks with Dennisabout the special election Octo-ber 6th involving the proposedDPW facility and new center firestation

CLICK HERECLICK HERE for video clip

Former Selectmen Philip Eliopoulostalks with Dennis about the politicalelection season coming up.And also about the property his fam-ily has purchased next to the centerfire station.

CLICK HERECLICK HERE for video clip

***********************************************************************Submitted by Kathy Duffett - Scholl Committee member

Support Chelmsford: Spend LocallySpend LocallyPlease join me on Thursday October 1st in showing support for our local business owners and our town.Local option taxes, an incremental increase on meals and hotel rooms will become effective in Chelmsfordon that day. All revenue from these changes will go directly to Chelmsford and will be used tomaintain local services; Chelmsford’s Fire, Police, Public works, and School System. Although theincrease in the meals tax is very low, .75% or 75 cents for a $100 meal, many are worried about thepotential impact to our local business owners.

Chelmsford is a great town, and now is a perfect time to demonstrate that we are truly “One Town, Oneteam”. Our Town Government needs the additional revenue to maintain services already severelyeffected by budget reductions, and business owners need to know that their restaurant can be successfulin Chelmsford, now and in the future. Lets help each other. Simply stated, support Chelmsford and ourbusiness owners – spend locally!

I am encouraging everyone to make a special effort on October first to support our own restaurants,coffee shops, deli’s and diners. (Keep in mind that the increase in a Duncan Donuts coffee is a penny!)Perhaps that is the day to pick up coffee on the way to work, meet friends for lunch, or have a relaxingdinner with family and friends. Personally, I plan on starting my day with a coffee at the Java Room.While enjoying any one of our great spots, wear something maroon, and let the proprietor knowhe can count on you.

Kathy Duffett, 47 Thomas Drive, Chelmsford.

FRIENDSHIP PARKFRIENDSHIP PARKCLEAN UPCLEAN UP9/13/099/13/09

Photos by Phil StanwayPhotos by Phil Stanway

STATE REPS DO THE COOKINGby Tom ChristianoSeptember 20, 2009

Last Monday there was a BBQ for Senior Citizens sponsored by twoof our State Representatives, Tom Golden & Jim Arciero. It washeld at the Chelmsford Senior Center on September 14th, 2009.Over 160 Senior Citizens stopped by to enjoy the BBQ with ourState Reps and other town officials.

In addition to State Reps Golden and Arciero, many other town andstate leaders came by for a bite to eat, including: State Rep CoryAtkins...Town Manager Paul Cohen...Selectmen Clare Jeannotte,Pat Wojtas, Eric Dahlberg & George Dixon...School SuperintendentDon Yeoman...State Senator Susan Fargo's Assistant Don Siriani(Senator Fargo just had hip replacement surgery and she is still recovering)....School Committee member Angie Taranto....and Selectman candidateMatt Hanson (he helped with the cooking for everyone).

Photos By Tom ChristianoPhotos By Tom Christiano

Submitted by Evan BelanskyEvan BelanskyFrom: "Belansky, Evan" <EBelansky@TownofChelmsford.US>From: "Belansky, Evan" <EBelansky@TownofChelmsford.US>Date: September 18, 2009 10:35:44 AM EDTDate: September 18, 2009 10:35:44 AM EDTTo: "Roy (home) Earley" <re007hq@comcast.net>To: "Roy (home) Earley" <re007hq@comcast.net>Subject: Chelmsford - 25 katrina Road - letter of supportSubject: Chelmsford - 25 katrina Road - letter of support

Roy:Roy:

Hope you can help me out……Hope you can help me out……The Town will be submitting a grant for the brownfield clean up forThe Town will be submitting a grant for the brownfield clean up for25 katrina Road.25 katrina Road.I would like a letter of support from the Westlands Watchdogs,I would like a letter of support from the Westlands Watchdogs,as a community organization, if possible.as a community organization, if possible.We are also holding a public meeting –see attachmentWe are also holding a public meeting –see attachmentThanksThanks

EvanEvan

TOWN OF CHELMSFORDTOWN OF CHELMSFORDPUBLIC MEETING NOTICEPUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The Community Development Department will conduct a Public Meeting onThe Community Development Department will conduct a Public Meeting onMonday, September 28, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. at the Town Hall, 50 Billerica Road inMonday, September 28, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. at the Town Hall, 50 Billerica Road inRoom 204.Room 204. The purpose of the meeting will be to provide notice of the Town’s intent toThe purpose of the meeting will be to provide notice of the Town’s intent toapply for an EPA brownfields cleanup grant for the property located at 25 Katrina Road.apply for an EPA brownfields cleanup grant for the property located at 25 Katrina Road.The meeting will present the draft grant application, seek public comments and answerThe meeting will present the draft grant application, seek public comments and answerquestions. Public comments on the draft application will be accepted at the meeting.questions. Public comments on the draft application will be accepted at the meeting.

Copies of the draft grant application will be available for public review at the hearing andCopies of the draft grant application will be available for public review at the hearing andare also available for review at the Community Development Office and on the town’sare also available for review at the Community Development Office and on the town’swebpage. The meeting room is fully accessible and accommodations will be made for inwebpage. The meeting room is fully accessible and accommodations will be made for in--dividuals with special needs.dividuals with special needs.

KOHLSKOHLS

FLASHBACK :FLASHBACK :

Katrina Road site eligible for state redevelopment loanKatrina Road site eligible for state redevelopment loanhttp://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/town_info/government/x792894310/Katrina-Road-site-eligible-for-state-redevelopment-loan

GateHouse News ServiceMar 16, 2009Chelmsford

MassDevelopment today announced that four municipally owned properties have been selected for low-cost loans of up to $2 million under the agency’s Brownfields Priority Project Program. The sites are lo-cated in Boston, Chelmsford, New Bedford and Springfield.

Created in August 2006, the Priority Project Program designates high impact parcels to attract developerinterest in reuse that would be viable but for environmental contamination. The selected communities areeligible for up to $2 million in low-cost, flexible brownfields remediation funding, $1.5 million more than the$500,000 available under standard program rules. The agency will release the remediation funds after adeveloper has been identified by the municipality.

“The priority project designation is intended to support communities as they remediate and reposition prop-erties to attract investment from private developers,” said Robert L. Culver, MassDevelopmentpresident/CEO. “The redevelopment of these high impact sites can lead to the revitalization of entire dis-tricts, and new economic opportunities across the region. I hope that those not chosen for priority statuscome back to us to learn about other financing options available through the Brownfields RedevelopmentFund.”

The Town of Chelmsford site — Silicon Transistor Corporation Site, 25-29 Katrina Road: The town-owned,3-acre site once housed the Silicon Transistor Corporation, a manufacturer of hermetically packaged semi-conductors for technology applications. The town recently secured a 43D expedited permitting designationfor the site, and work is under way to assess environmental contamination present in the soil and an exist-ing 35,000-square-foot building. The town plans to complete a financial analysis and conceptual redevelop-ment plan for the property in fall 2009 with a $100,000 grant it received previously from MassDevelopment,the state’s finance and development authority.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++http://yosemite1.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/6427a6b7538955c585257359003f0230/e6b2542525e65726852574bf004f9f08!OpenDocument&Start=1&Count=5&Expand=1

EPA PROPOSES $114,262 FINE AGAINST CHELMSFORD CO.FORVIOLATING HAZARDOUSWASTE LAWS

Release date: 10/25/1999

BOSTON - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed a $114,262 fine against a Chelms-ford, Mass., company charged with six counts of violating federal hazardous waste laws.

In a complaint filed recently, EPA's New England Office charged JapEnameLac Corp. with violations that in-cluded failure to conduct hazardous waste determinations; failure to train employees who manage haz-ardous waste and failure to label containers of hazardous waste.

The complaint also charged the company, which does protective and decorative finishings, with failure tomaintain adequate hazardous waste training records and failure to maintain a complete contingency planto be used in case of an emergency spill or release.

"In the future, we expect the company to do better. To begin with, we expect the company to determine thenature of its waste so that all hazardous waste produced there is handled according to the requirements ofthe federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act,@ said John P. DeVillars, EPA's New England Ad-ministrator. "Furthermore, JapEnameLac's repeated failures to train personnel and develop a continencyplan have created a significant potential for mismanagement of hazardous waste. This too needs to be ad-dressed."

The action stems from EPA inspections of the plant at 25 Katrina Road in June 1998 and July 1999. JapE-nameLac operations include coating, silk-screening and painting processes on metal and plastic products.

www.chelmsfordmassnews.comwww.chelmsfordmassnews.com

Chelmsford BOS talks trashChelmsford BOS talks trashKevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter 09.SEP.09

With about nine months left in the current contract, officials recently started to talk about one of the fewservices every Chelmsford resident uses -- trash collection.

"Do we need an ad-hoc committee on solid waste or is this something the town managerDo we need an ad-hoc committee on solid waste or is this something the town managercan do?can do?" asked Board of Selectmen Chairman Clare Jeannotte.

Town Manager Paul Cohen suggested because of the "unique history of solid waste collectionunique history of solid waste collection" intown, the board should form another committee to study the issue.

""We need to educate the community about what the current practices are then develop aWe need to educate the community about what the current practices are then develop aplan and implement it,plan and implement it," said Cohen.

In 2007, the Solid Waste and Recycling Task Force issued a report that urged the town to adopt a limit onthe number of barrels a trash hauler would pick up. If residents went over the two-barrel limit, they couldpurchase specially tagged bags.

Nothing happened with that report, said Cohen, because of the strong lobbying by residents who insisteda 1992 override vote was the final word on trash collection.

According to Cohen, the town can proceed with trash collection in one of three ways: It could keep thecurrent system; it could try to form a collective agreement with neighboring communities; or it could switchto a "real" pay-as-you-throw program.

Jeannotte said no matter what a new committee decides, she wants it to honor the work that's alreadybeen done by the Solid Waste and Recycling Task Force.

Selectmen also discussed the possibility of reinstating leaf pickup during the fall.

"There are leaf pick-up groupies in this townThere are leaf pick-up groupies in this town," said Selectman Eric Dahlberg.

Once the town collects leaves, however, it has nowhere to take them,said Cohen.

Jeannotte suggested dumping them at the town-owned Lewis propertyon Robin Hill Road, but that comes with its own problems.

"You have to have something to deal with itYou have to have something to deal with it ,," said Cohen."And there's a cost with thatAnd there's a cost with that."

Other issues a new study would need to consider includes switching toa weekly recycling schedule and whether to expand services tobusinesses in town.

Residents would also be surveyed about their preferences during a pub-lic input session set for sometime in November, said Cohen.

"We want this bid in a February timeframeWe want this bid in a February timeframe," said Cohen.

CrowdedCrowdedChelmsfordChelmsford

busbusa concerna concern

http://www.lowellsun.com/local/ci_13314816

By Rita Savard, rsavard@lowellsun.com09/11/2009

CHELMSFORD -- A Chelmsford dad is trying to obtain copies of school-bus tapes after hearing his son's bus wasso overcrowded that children were forced to sit on the floor.

School officials confirmed that there were 16 extra students on bus No. 15, en route to the McCarthy MiddleSchool on Tuesday, Sept. 1, but said the problem on that bus has since been corrected. Superintendent ofSchools Donald Yeoman said an additional 72 students registering for the bus during the first week of schoolthrew some routes into "a state of confusiona state of confusion."

"It created a domino effect, where we had to make changesIt created a domino effect, where we had to make changes," Yeoman said. "During the first coupleDuring the first coupleof weeks of school, when you're dealing with many new changes, there's bound to be a littleof weeks of school, when you're dealing with many new changes, there's bound to be a littleconfusionconfusion."

School officials said they were very concerned about parents' complaints, but could not confirm that students hadto sit on the aisle of the bus. Although cameras are present on some busses, not every bus is equipped with arecording device, they said.

Parent Matthew Cilento said he personally observed students standing in the aisles while the bus was drivingaway, and would like to view any recorded video tapes to see just how many students were forced to sit or standin the aisle that day.

"When I learned the bus routes were being changed this year, I was hoping it might actually helpWhen I learned the bus routes were being changed this year, I was hoping it might actually helpsolve what's been an ongoing problem for years,solve what's been an ongoing problem for years," Cilento said. ""Then on the first day of schoolThen on the first day of schoolthere's another fiasco. I have zero confidence that they're going to cure the problem.there's another fiasco. I have zero confidence that they're going to cure the problem."

Cilento said he's even more angry about the situation because, "it's much more than a scheduling conflict.it's much more than a scheduling conflict.It's compromising our kids' safety.It's compromising our kids' safety."

A law enacted in 1998 prohibits students from standing on school busses, according to the School TransportationAssociation of Massachusetts. Before that, state law allowed kids to stand on the bus as long as the number ofstanding students didn't exceed 25 percent of the bus's seating capacity, and there were straps or other hand-holds provided.

School Committee member Nick DeSilvio said in past years there havebeen problems with students arriving to school late because buses werelate.

DeSilvio said that not only were buses on time, they appeared to be level-loaded. The influx of last-minute students registering to ride the bus didn'thelp with making scheduling smooth, he added, and the committee is look-ing to enforce a stricter registration deadline by the end of June to setroutes in July.

Bus drivers should be checking passes, and above all, not driving the bus ifthere is no room for students to sit.

"A bus driver cannot leave a child standing on a cornerA bus driver cannot leave a child standing on a corner ,,"DeSilvio said. "But if there is no room for a student to sit, the busBut if there is no room for a student to sit, the busdriver has to call dispatch because the bus is not supposed todriver has to call dispatch because the bus is not supposed tomove under any circumstancesmove under any circumstances .."

Master plan committee collects input on transportationMaster plan committee collects input on transportation

By Chloe Gotsis/ staff writer Chelmsford Independenthttp://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/news/x1358731127/Master-plan-committee-collects-input-on-transportation

GateHouse News ServicePosted Sep 18, 2009

Chelmsford —

Bike lanes, parking for Bruce Freeman Rail trail and improvements in busy town intersections are some ofthe changes Chelmsford residents say they would like to see in the town’s master plan.

Thursday night’s session focused on transportation. It drew about 25 people, down from the session inearly June focused on land use, zoning, housing and economic development. That June 3 session drew acrowd of 65.

During the meeting, residents express a desire to see better parking for the rail trail and better traffic flowaround the schools, among other issues.

“At the high school there is unbelievable congestion,”“At the high school there is unbelievable congestion,” said Karen DiDonarto. “Old Westford“Old WestfordRoad and David Road, that’s a really bad intersection. We can’t get in and out to get theRoad and David Road, that’s a really bad intersection. We can’t get in and out to get thekids to school on time because it’s so crowdedkids to school on time because it’s so crowded.”

Tom Christiano said he would like to see bike-safety lanes on the town’s main roads. Doing that woulddovetail with the rail trail and the overall push toward environmental friendliness.

“Three or four feet, even one or two feet for [bike safety]Three or four feet, even one or two feet for [bike safety],” he said. “Whatever we can do toWhatever we can do tofacilitate more of a shoulder on the main roads on Route 27, Boston Road, Route 129 andfacilitate more of a shoulder on the main roads on Route 27, Boston Road, Route 129 andRoute 110.Route 110.”

Master Plan Committee Chairman Jim Lane and other members of the committee expressed some disap-pointment with the turnout at the meeting.

“These sessions are more for the residentsThese sessions are more for the residents,” said Lane.“It’s tough topics in terms of services, facilities and transportation.It’s tough topics in terms of services, facilities and transportation.”

Committee member Linda Prescott said she was disappointed in the evening’s low turnout.

“We don’t know if it’s that people just don’t feel they have a lot to say on transportation,We don’t know if it’s that people just don’t feel they have a lot to say on transportation,”said Prescott, who also serves on the Community Preservation Committee.“We certainly expected to have more feedback. Especially on [topics like] transportationWe certainly expected to have more feedback. Especially on [topics like] transportationand traffic.and traffic.”

www.chelmsfordmassnews.comwww.chelmsfordmassnews.com

Monday'sMonday's insuranceinsurance meetingmeetingpostponed for nowpostponed for nowKevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter 18.SEP.09

The joint meeting between the Board of Selectmen and School and Financecommittees to discussemployee insurance options scheduled for Sept. 21 has been postponed.

BOS Chairman Clare Jeannotte originally planned the session so members ofthe boards could beprovided with the history of insurance costs in town, what the current benefitsare and what otheroptions exist.

“Health insurance is the No. 1 issue for this year,Health insurance is the No. 1 issue for this year,” said Jeannotte.“This was so all board members understood the choices. It madeThis was so all board members understood the choices. It madesense to bring in the School Committee and Finance Committee.sense to bring in the School Committee and Finance Committee.”

Union representatives did not see the meeting as an educational opportunity, but rather believed thiswas a way to turn public support against its members.

“We view such a meeting as negotiating in public and a violation of good faith bargain“We view such a meeting as negotiating in public and a violation of good faith bargain--ing under M.G.L. Chapter 150Eing under M.G.L. Chapter 150E,” reps wrote in a letter received at Town Hall Wednesday. “As weAs wedid at the August IAC (Insurance Advisory Committee) meeting, we want to make it clear,did at the August IAC (Insurance Advisory Committee) meeting, we want to make it clear,in no uncertain terms, that we oppose the holding of this event and feel that such anin no uncertain terms, that we oppose the holding of this event and feel that such anevent will be counter-productive to any and all negotiations concerning health insurevent will be counter-productive to any and all negotiations concerning health insur--ance.”ance.”

Some Finance Committee members also questioned the timing of such a meeting.

“Are you drawing a line in the sand?Are you drawing a line in the sand?” Finance Committee member Jon Kurland asked Town Man-ager Paul Cohen. “All the unions are saying are give us more time. Will this have a negativeAll the unions are saying are give us more time. Will this have a negativeimpact on your ability to negotiate?impact on your ability to negotiate?”

Chelmsford currently pays $10.4 million in employee and retiree health benefits. The state run GroupInsurance Commission would cost the town $9.3 million. A comparable Blue Cross alternative wouldcharge the town about $8.8 million. Both the alternative and GIC programs come with higher co-paysfor most office visit, hospital stays and some procedures now completely covered.

Kurland suggested it might make sense to delay the tri-board meeting untilmid-October when thetallies its September revenue collection and, as some have suggested, an-nounce 9C cuts to local aid.

“It seems to me there is one person in this room that has to negoIt seems to me there is one person in this room that has to nego--tiate with all these people,tiate with all these people,” said Kurland. “Does it benefit him to tickDoes it benefit him to tickoff these people? The forum may be educational, but it doesn’toff these people? The forum may be educational, but it doesn’thave to be next weekhave to be next week ..”

On Thursday night, Jeannotte said she wanted to speak with the other fourmembers of her board before changing Monday's meeting.

Members of all three boards received an e-mail Friday morning saying themeeting was postponed and no future date had been selected.

Clare JeannotteClare Jeannotte

Jon Kurland

On the BorderOn the Borderhttp://www.wickedlocal.com/westford/news/business/x581520345/Asphalt-plantair-quality-stirs-debate-in-Westford

Asphalt plant air quality stirs debate in WestfordAsphalt plant air quality stirs debate in WestfordBy Conrad Hinckley/Correspondent WESTFORD EAGLE

Thu Sep 10, 2009, 08:49 AM EDT

WESTFORD -

An asphalt manufacturing plant at 540 Groton Road,proposed by Newport Materials, LLC and 540Groton Road LLC, drew much discussion at thePlanning Board meeting Tuesday concerning airquality and increased traffic.

Representatives for the proposed plant said,“emissions are an important issue for consideration.We believe we have completed all of the datarequested by the Board of Health andthe Department of Public Health.”

Ross Altobelli, Town Planner, said an ultimate decision on the proposed plant would require mobilesources of emissions (vehicles) modeling, a fugitive emissions study and a health risk assessment,which would require the hiring of a “well-known toxicologist.”

Kelly Begia, Westford’s air quality consultant, said two air quality studies have been completed and areundergoing review. She expects an expanded model later this week.

A major concern was raised by the board, as well as by townspeople regarding the nearby Miller Schooland the effect of pollutants on children. Speakers noted that asthma rates at the school appeared highand sought a comparison with other schools in the state. Green noted that Westford Schools has fouryears of health data. "We need that data." Another board member asked what constituted an acceptablerisk of the additional pollution load.

The issue of safety and increased traffic on theGroton Road was discussed. Representativesfor the plant said that the bulk of traffic would“be seen between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m.” Earlierstated concerns about increased traffic volume,crash rates and growth rates were raised. Greensaid, “More study is needed. [There are] somemitigation measures that could be advanced.”Westford’s traffic consultant stated that he did notforesee “excessive cueing or delays onGroton Road.”

Representatives for the proposed asphalt plant’s neighboring community urged the Planning Board to“reconsider that this [proposal] falls under the zoning bylaws governing light manufacturing. It will be aperversion of the bylaws if it goes through.”

“That question is under consideration.We need to wait for the Town Counsel to respond."The discussion was continued until the October Planning Board meeting.

A sign of revenue to comeA sign of revenue to comeBy John Collins, jcollins@lowellsun.com

http://www.lowellsun.com/todaysheadlines/ci_1337618609/19/2009

TYNGSBORO -- A newly erected 65-foot high bill-board on the northbound side of Route 3 will gen-erate more than $200,000 for Tyngsboro's generalfund over the next 10 years, and will include a dig-ital message-board attachment for police to issue"Amber alerts," according to the billboard andproperty owner Walter Erickson.

"We're excited about it. It's a win-win situation forus and the town," said Erickson, a Tyngsboro resi-dent and owner of Applewood Construction. "I cansee towns up and down the highway looking at(copying the idea)."

Erickson first approached the town's ZoningBoard ofAppeals two years ago seeking a variance to place abillboard on the seven-acre parcel he owns behindMakepeaceRoad, with 400 feet of frontageRoute 3northbound, just south of Exit 34.

In exchange for a zoning variance, the deal Erickson struck with town officials calls for him to pay the town $20,000 annually for 10years, and 2 percent of the advertising revenue generated by the billboard annually thereafter. Plus, the town will receive yearlyproperty tax revenue from the land, which otherwise he would've left vacant, Erickson noted.

"This was a unique piece of property on industrially zoned land that had some real difficult topography and wetlands issues.Youcouldn't put a building on it," said Erickson. The billboard is doubly good for the town, he added, "because it didn't have to spendany upfront money, or worry about maintenance. And it gets theproperty on the tax rolls."

Selectman Robert Jackson, a former ZBA member, supported Erickson's billboard proposal from the start.

"It's not uncommon to see when you drive around the country that people use billboards to raise revenue. Chelmsford is doing it.Lowell does it.We should do it, too," said Jackson.

Jackson said the lengthiest discussions during the approval process focused on monitoring content. The variance granted by theZBA includes a covenant stating that adult-oriented businesses or products may not be advertised on the billboard.

"We wouldn't put anything up there that was offensive anyway," said Erickson, who has contracted with NewYork City-based SplashMedia Group to solicit advertisers, and paste the content on both 720-square-foot panels of the V-shaped billboard.

It should make Tyngsboro residents feel good to know they are sharing in the proceeds from the town's one and only highway bill-board "in perpetuity," said Selectman Rich Lemoine. "As a selectman and member of the Economic Development Committee, I viewit as a tremendous opportunity to have that money coming back to us every year -- especially in these trying economic times."

Erickson has obtained a permit from the Massachusetts Highway Department's Outdoor Advertising Board. As of Thursday, how-ever, he told The Sun the billboard construction project was incomplete. Electrical wiring and the digital message-board attachmentstill need to be installed and inspected, he said.

Tyngsboro's new billboard is lagging slightly behind the construction schedule of another new billboard on the northbound side ofRoute 3 in Lowell, which was erected this summer by Alpine Butcher Shop owner Peter Doyle in back of his store at 963 Chelms-ford St. Although the city won't share in the ad revenues from the billboard, Doyle will have to pay higher property taxes, accordingto Assistant City Manager Adam Baacke.

In Chelmsford, selectmen are backing the construction of two new billboards on Route 3In Chelmsford, selectmen are backing the construction of two new billboards on Route 3that residents will be asked to approve at Town Meeting on Oct. 19. Because both of thethat residents will be asked to approve at Town Meeting on Oct. 19. Because both of theproposed billboards would be located on town-owned land -- at Chelmsford High School,proposed billboards would be located on town-owned land -- at Chelmsford High School,and at Oak Hill near the Scotty Hollow townhouses -- the town stands to collect 100 perand at Oak Hill near the Scotty Hollow townhouses -- the town stands to collect 100 per--cent of the estimated revenue of $90,000 per year.cent of the estimated revenue of $90,000 per year.

"We could see the billboards in place as early as next spring," said Town Manager Paul"We could see the billboards in place as early as next spring," said Town Manager PaulCohen.Cohen.

In light of Chelmsford's looming billboard windfall, Jackson, Tyngsboro's freshman seIn light of Chelmsford's looming billboard windfall, Jackson, Tyngsboro's freshman se--lectman, said he's open to discussions about possibly erecting a second revenue-generlectman, said he's open to discussions about possibly erecting a second revenue-gener--ating billboard on one of four existing town-owned parcels on the Route 3 corridor.ating billboard on one of four existing town-owned parcels on the Route 3 corridor.But Lemoine said he'd be opposed to a second billboard.

"Mr. Erickson's continued cooperation in giving back to the community was instrumental in getting this billboard idea realized, andthanks goes to everyone who was involved in the process. But right now I believe one sign on Route 3 in the town of Tyngsboro isas much as I want to see." said Lemoine.

Anger as man who raped boyman who raped boyin 1990 freedfreed with no GPSno GPS

By Lisa Redmond, lredmond@lowellsun.com09/14/2009

CHELMSFORD -- Nearly two decades of pain and anger flow down the Lowell mother's face as she tear-fully recalls the night in 1990 when her 7-year-old son was kidnapped, held captive overnight and repeat-edly raped by Ralph W. Goodwin.

"It was horrible,'' said the woman, who asked that her name not be used to protect the identity of her now-27-year-old son. "My son's innocence was ripped away.''

The pain of that night and its aftermath have come back to haunt the mother, as Goodwin, now 47 and aLevel 3 sex offender, was recentlyreleased from prison, after 19 years in custody, when a jury found he is no longer a sexually dangerousperson.

One mental-health expert testified that Goodwin, who is schizophrenic, is not dangerous as long as hestays on his medication.

"I thought he'd be in prison forever,'' the mother said as she sat in a Chelmsford coffee shop.

Goodwin, a Lowell resident, could not be reached directly for comment. The Sun tried to contact himthrough a family member but received no reply.

The family's painful story began on the night of Feb. 3, 1990.

CLICK HERECLICK HERE for the whole storyfor the whole story

******************************************************************

Q&A with a victim advocateQ&A with a victim advocateLAURIE MYERSLAURIE MYERS is the Co-founder of Community VOICES.is the Co-founder of Community VOICES.

VOICES offers advocacy, resources and educationalVOICES offers advocacy, resources and educationalinformation to community groups, individuals andinformation to community groups, individuals andcommunity leaders, with the goal of raisingcommunity leaders, with the goal of raisingawareness regarding sexual assault, child sexualawareness regarding sexual assault, child sexualassault, internet predators and missing andassault, internet predators and missing andendangered children.endangered children.

In-Town Report:In-Town Report:

How do decisions like the latest involving the GPS tracking systemsHow do decisions like the latest involving the GPS tracking systemsno longer being used on sex offenders affect the work that youno longer being used on sex offenders affect the work that youare trying to do?are trying to do?

Laurie Myers:Laurie Myers:

The SJC decision affects my work with victims because victims and membersThe SJC decision affects my work with victims because victims and membersof the community find comfort in knowing probation and parole had anof the community find comfort in knowing probation and parole had anextra tool to help them monitor offenders.extra tool to help them monitor offenders.

Massachusetts probation has no specific guidelines in the way they monitorMassachusetts probation has no specific guidelines in the way they monitorsex offenders and consider a visit every two weeks to be “intensive”sex offenders and consider a visit every two weeks to be “intensive”supervision.supervision.

Sex offender management/supervision is the only way to prevent recidivismSex offender management/supervision is the only way to prevent recidivismand GPS tracking is an extra set of eyes. It’s worth noting that the SJCand GPS tracking is an extra set of eyes. It’s worth noting that the SJCdecision still allows judges discretion for offenders sentenced before 2006.decision still allows judges discretion for offenders sentenced before 2006.

In-Town Report:In-Town Report:

In your opinion where or what is the State lackingIn your opinion where or what is the State lackingin dealing with sex offenders?in dealing with sex offenders?

Laurie Myers:Laurie Myers:

Massachusetts is in desperate need of sentencing guideline reform.Massachusetts is in desperate need of sentencing guideline reform.Current sentencing guidelines set forth by the Massachusetts SentencingCurrent sentencing guidelines set forth by the Massachusetts SentencingCommission are inadequate and allow what amounts to a slap on the wrist.Commission are inadequate and allow what amounts to a slap on the wrist.

Many lenient judges use the guidelines as a justification for a light sentenceMany lenient judges use the guidelines as a justification for a light sentenceand on the flip side, the guidelines sometimes prevents other judges fromand on the flip side, the guidelines sometimes prevents other judges fromadding prison time above the recommended guidelines because they don’tadding prison time above the recommended guidelines because they don’twant to make a statement that could be overturned.want to make a statement that could be overturned.

******************************************************************http://www.lowellsun.com/ci_13157252http://www.lowellsun.com/ci_13157252Town bylaw setting limits on where some convicted sex offenders may live.Town bylaw setting limits on where some convicted sex offenders may live.08/19/200908/19/2009TOWNSEND -- Selectmen voted to hold a Special Town Meeting Sept. 1 to decide sevenTOWNSEND -- Selectmen voted to hold a Special Town Meeting Sept. 1 to decide sevenarticles, includingarticles, including

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Article 7 is a proposed bylaw setting limits on where some convicted sex offenders may live.Article 7 is a proposed bylaw setting limits on where some convicted sex offenders may live.

"There was a citizen who was concerned about this issue and selectmen asked town council to"There was a citizen who was concerned about this issue and selectmen asked town council toprovide us with a bylaw and the police chief was very interested in having a bylaw," Barnesprovide us with a bylaw and the police chief was very interested in having a bylaw," Barnessaid.said.

Under the proposed bylaw, Level 3 offenders -- considered most likely to reoffend -- would beUnder the proposed bylaw, Level 3 offenders -- considered most likely to reoffend -- would beforbidden from living within 1,000 feet of the town library, any schools, day-care centers,forbidden from living within 1,000 feet of the town library, any schools, day-care centers,parks, elderly-housing facilities or places of worship in the town.parks, elderly-housing facilities or places of worship in the town.

The bylaw would not limit their movements around town, just where they may live, Barnes said.The bylaw would not limit their movements around town, just where they may live, Barnes said.

Selectman Robert Plamondon is supporting the bylaw change.Selectman Robert Plamondon is supporting the bylaw change.

"Anything we can do to make people more accountable and help the police do what they need"Anything we can do to make people more accountable and help the police do what they needto do I'm in favor of doing," Plamondon said. "To me it's a public safety issue, I think it's a reato do I'm in favor of doing," Plamondon said. "To me it's a public safety issue, I think it's a rea--sonable bylaw."sonable bylaw."

******************************************************************In-Town Report:In-Town Report:

Would a by-law like the one Townsend recently passed work for Chelmsford?Would a by-law like the one Townsend recently passed work for Chelmsford?Why or Why not?Why or Why not?

Laurie Myers:Laurie Myers:

We are not currently supporting by-laws or legislation that would createWe are not currently supporting by-laws or legislation that would createresidency restrictions in Chelmsford.residency restrictions in Chelmsford.

It’s difficult to say exactly what would prevent these crimes, but we feelIt’s difficult to say exactly what would prevent these crimes, but we feelthat adequate prison sentences, intensive probation/parole upon releasethat adequate prison sentences, intensive probation/parole upon releaseand educating children and communities is the best way. We have neverand educating children and communities is the best way. We have neveradvocated against residency restrictions, but see it as a last resort.advocated against residency restrictions, but see it as a last resort.

One of the biggest obstacles for communities that currently have residencyOne of the biggest obstacles for communities that currently have residencyrestrictions is enforcement. Police departments are underfunded and manyrestrictions is enforcement. Police departments are underfunded and manyof these by-laws lack the language that would make them enforceable.of these by-laws lack the language that would make them enforceable.

We will continue to advocate for stronger laws to protect our communitiesWe will continue to advocate for stronger laws to protect our communitiesand children with the hope that addressing the real problems will ease theand children with the hope that addressing the real problems will ease thefrustration our town officials feel when they see that yet another sex offrustration our town officials feel when they see that yet another sex of--fender has served little time in prison and is released into our communityfender has served little time in prison and is released into our communitywithout adequate supervision.without adequate supervision.

This is the first case being challenged in Massachusetts.It will be interesting to watch.

Barnstable PatriotACLU fighting town sex offender lawACLU fighting town sex offender lawCLICK HERECLICK HERE for Story

EXTRAEEXXTTRRAASSEEXXTTRRAASS

************************************************Dear Family and Friends:

Community VOICES would like to invite you to our annual fundraiser on Thursday, October 8, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. (Doorsopen at 6:00 p.m. awards are at 6:45) at the Roma Restaurant, 29 Middlesex Street, Bradford, Massachusetts.

We thought that we would try something new and exciting this year by having a comedy night. There will be threeBoston Comedians there: Mike Donovan, Jim Colliton and Steve Guilmette.

The donation is $25.00 per person. If you are coming to this event, we ask that you purchase your tickets in advance tohelp us know how many people will be attending. If the show is not sold out, tickets may be purchased at the door.

Please come and enjoy the evening with us. You are invited to bring as many people with you as you would like, butplease remember this show is for mature audiences only.

If you are unable to attend, but would like to make a donation, that would be appreciated as well.

Checks for the tickets and/or donations should be made out to Voices of Involved Citizens Encouraging Safety and mailedto:

Sandra DiBacco51 Cleveland StreetNorfolk, MA 02056

You can also make donations through PayPal. Go to our website: www.communityvoices.net and follow the links to thedonation section.

If you have any questions or would like to order tickets, please call me at 508-541-6360 or e-mail me atsandydibacco@yahoo.com .

As you know, without your continued support and contributions, we would not be able to achieve our goal.

VOICES offers advocacy, resources and educational information to community groups, individuals and community leaders,with the goal of raising awareness regarding sexual assault, child sexual assault, internet predators and missing and endan-gered children.

Thank you for all your help.Very truly yours,

Sandy DiBacco, Treasurer/Fundraiser ChairpersonLaurie Myers, PresidentDebbie Savoia, Vice PresidentKris Silva, Secretary

Chelmsford Residents OnlyChelmsford Residents Only2009 Seasonal Flu

and Pneumonia Vaccine Clinic:Administered by the Chelmsford Board of HealthThis vaccine is for the regular yearly seasonal flu.

The three viruses that it provides protection against are:A/Brisbane/59/2007, IVR-148

A/Uruguay/716/2007, NYMC X-175CB/Brisbane/60/2008 like virus

THIS VACCINE DOES NOT PROVIDE PROTECTION AGAINST THE NOVEL H1N1 FLUTHIS VACCINE DOES NOT PROVIDE PROTECTION AGAINST THE NOVEL H1N1 FLU

Location: Chelmsford Senior CenterRoute 40, North ChelmsfordDate and Time: Thursday, October 8, 20092:00 p.m. until 4:30 p.m.(This first clinic is limited to residents ages 65 or older andresidents under age 65 with a chronic illness.)

Date and Time: Thursday, October 15, 20092:00 p.m. until 4:30 p.m.(for all other Chelmsford residents ages 6 months +)For those ages 65 + Bring ALL of your HEALTH INSURANCE CARDS with you.If you have any questions you may call Sue Rosa, RN at the Chelmsford Board of Health (978) 250-5243

*****************************Chelmsford Women of todayChelmsford Women of today

Food DriveFood DriveCome on down to Market Basket and donate food to help the Chelmsford Community Exchange Food Pantry. Shoppers will be given a suggested shopping list fromwhich to purchase as many items as they are able and then, simply drop themoff with the volunteers as they exit the store. Any monetary donations collectedwill be used to purchase items from the suggested list.

We hope to see you at Market Basket , 288 Chelmsford St. on Oct 17 9am-3pm

****************************Submitted by Submitted by Pat MaloneyPat Maloney

PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUMPUBLIC INFORMATION FORUMThe public is invited to come to an informational sessioninformational session

on the Fire Center Fire Station & DPWFacilityFire Center Fire Station & DPWFacility

Tuesday, September 29 at 7:00 pmPolice Station - 2 Olde North Road

Training Room--------------------------------------------------

Center Fire Station & DPW FacilityOpen HousesOpen Houses

Thursday, September 24 - 5 PM - 7 PMSunday, October 4 - 12 PM - 3 PM

*****************************

Submitted by Submitted by Pat MaloneyPat Maloney

Submitted by Submitted by Pat MaloneyPat Maloney

Submitted by Submitted by Pat MaloneyPat Maloney

Submitted by Submitted by Pat MaloneyPat Maloney

The Fire Station Proposal: I was wrongI was wrongBy Sean Scanlon / Board of Selectmen

09/16/09

Simply stated, I’m writing to say I was wrong. Since my vote on thefire station project nearly two months ago, I’ve had a good deal oftime to consider the proposal. The presentation has also improvedsince I first viewed it. I have always felt like a runner entering amarathon at lap 23 with this project, and while I appreciate the courtesy my fellow Selectmen offered me in pushing forward theboard’s vote so that I could participate before being activated with thenational guard, a few more weeks of thought on the matter has enabled me to understand a few things I could not previously justify.Given that there is still time before the public vote on October 6th, I hope you will afford me a moment of your time to share mythoughts.

My initial apprehension about the fire department proposal was that I did not see the justification ina slumped economy for a station three times the size of our current one, given that manning levelshave remained relatively unchanged for the past twenty five years. The problem with that argumentis that manning levels have little to do with the building’s size requirement.

I recently toured the station, and studied the plans for the proposal in greater detail. As is widelyknown, the basement ceiling is being held by wooden bracers. I did not realize netting also keepspieces of concrete from falling on the heads of inhabitants. With an unusable basement, the equipment once stored in that space has been diverted to other areas of the building or to satellite stations where they are not centrally available if needed. Filling in the basement does not solve thisproblem.

The floor plans for the new station are conservative. I paid particular attention to the size of certainadministrative spaces because taxpayers should not pay for the luxury of even senior public offi-cials. The plan initially had a private bathroom for the Fire Chief, but that idea was scrapped. Now,despite my initial assumption, the Chief’s proposed office is roughly the size of his current one. This conservative use of space is carried throughout the plan.

The demand for equipment storage is really where the proposed building gains its size. The currentbuilding is inadequate because, in essence, the equipment made for today’s job is larger and thereis more required for a department fighting fewer fires and taking on more emergency management,fire prevention, and rescue functions. In the past, the town has had to custom order (at greater expense) at least one truck because the current garage doors are not tall enough for a standardtruck’s cab.

Admitting to being wrong is never easy, and there will inevitably be those who call me a “flip-flopper”on this issue. A good friend of mine once told me that a flip-flopper changes position to better theirpersonal circumstance, regardless of actual belief. In telling you that I now support the fire stationproject, I do so because I believe it is a good solution to a problem that is not going away, and sitting in silence has weighed on my conscience. I view replacing the fire station the way a womanonce explained replacing the roof of her home. She didn’t want to spend the money, but eventuallyknew that all the tar in a bucket would not save her roof.

I encourage anyone who has not done so already to take advantage of the fire station tour offeredon either September 24th or October 4th. After doing so, I am confident you will see the need for anew station is real.

Thank you for reading.

Chelmsford Historical Society

5th Annual Farm Fair5th Annual Farm FairSaturday, Sept 26 Noon - 4:00 PM Barrett-Byam Homestead

Rain Date: Sunday, Sept 27

Chelmsford Historical Society Farm Fair: The Chelmsford Historical Society is holding its sixth annual Farm Fair. Come and see what life was like in the rural farming village of Chelmsford in earlier times. TheBarrett Byam Homestead Museum will be open for self-guided tours of the house, its militaryroom and a recreated old -time general store. Chelmsford Historical Society members will beavailable to answer any questions you may have about the antique treasures you will discoverwithin the homestead. Outside, there will be hay rides, pony rides and demonstrations of honeyand cider making, as well as spinning, weaving, and farming techniques new and old. Localfarm produce, penny candy for the children, Chelmsford Historical Society books and col-lectibles, and refreshments for all will be available for sale. Musical folk group “Two Cat Folk”will entertain throughout the day. This and much more are available to you for the day, admis-sion free- donations are gratefully accepted.

*****************************2009 Book Sale2009 Book Sale

The Chelmsford Friends of the Library Book Sale will take place in the gym behind the Town Office building,

50 Billerica Road, Chelmsford Friday, Sept. 25th 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26th 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.Sunday, Sept. 27th 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

*****************************Fall brush drop -off: Sat. Oct. 3, 2009 Sat. Oct. 3, 2009

fromfrom 9:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. toto 2:00 p.m.2:00 p.m.Location: Community Tree 163 Billerica Road

Bring brush and branches up to 6 feet long and up to 8 inches in diameter.

Chelmsord residents onlyChelmsord residents only - bring proof of residency.

Call 978-250-5203 for information.

LEST WE FORGETLEST WE FORGET

RememberingSeptember 11th 2001

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"It's God's responsibility to forgive Bin Laden ..."It's God's responsibility to forgive Bin Laden ...It's our responsibility to arrange the meeting!"It's our responsibility to arrange the meeting!"

-- United States MarinesUnited States Marines

In-Town Report NEWS LINKSIn-Town Report NEWS LINKS

Lowell SunLowell SunChelmsford IndependentChelmsford Independent

Kevin Zimmerman’s Chelmsford Mass NewsKevin Zimmerman’s Chelmsford Mass NewsBoston HeraldBoston HeraldWestford EagleWestford Eagle

Town of Chelmsford WebsiteTown of Chelmsford Website

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Roy EarleyRoy EarleyPrecinct 6 Town Meeting RepresentativePrecinct 6 Town Meeting Representative

Tom ChristianoTom ChristianoPrecinct 9 Town Meeting RepresentativePrecinct 9 Town Meeting Representative