itr december 19 2010

Twas a week before Christmasand all through the town

Town employees ring in the holiday seasonKevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter • Fri, Dec 17, 2010

www.chelmsfordmassnews.com www.chelmsfordmassnews.com

Twas a week before Christmas and all through the town not an employee or official could even befound.Instead Friday night with a cup of good cheer, they gathered at the Elks Lodge to say Merry Christ-mas and Happy New Year. With dinner by Carven Catering, including a pot roast, guests mingled on thedance floor and shared a holiday toast.

Santa, however, could not make it to the party. Budget cuts, said Town Manager Paul Cohen made thisyear's extras less hardy. Cohen donned a red cap and proceeded to entertain saying he filed a publicrecord's request to get Santa's list of names.

For the town's Chief Assessor Frank Reen, Cohen said Santa earmarked the mobile homeFor the town's Chief Assessor Frank Reen, Cohen said Santa earmarked the mobile home

of his dreams.of his dreams.

Selectman Pat Wojtas was in for a bummer, claimed Cohen. Santa would bring her nothSelectman Pat Wojtas was in for a bummer, claimed Cohen. Santa would bring her noth--

ing because Sean Scanlon gave her a gift this past summer.ing because Sean Scanlon gave her a gift this past summer.

Heading toward George Zaharoolis, said Cohen, and also Sue Carter, is a subscription toHeading toward George Zaharoolis, said Cohen, and also Sue Carter, is a subscription to

"Better Not Bigger" from one trouble starter."Better Not Bigger" from one trouble starter.

Town Engineer Jim Pearson was absent from the party in the hall. Cohen said he wasTown Engineer Jim Pearson was absent from the party in the hall. Cohen said he was

picking up inspection stickers for trucks one and all.picking up inspection stickers for trucks one and all.

For the Sewer's Barry Balan a new calculator, said Cohen. Plus a lifetime supply of gumFor the Sewer's Barry Balan a new calculator, said Cohen. Plus a lifetime supply of gum

to be chewed much later.to be chewed much later.

To former rep Carol Cleven, who for nothing does lack, Cohen offered these words,To former rep Carol Cleven, who for nothing does lack, Cohen offered these words,

"We're getting your district back.""We're getting your district back."

Phil Stanway, said Cohen, the man of open spaces, would land on the Bicycle PedestrianPhil Stanway, said Cohen, the man of open spaces, would land on the Bicycle Pedestrian

board to put him through his paces.board to put him through his paces.

On Christmas morning, said Cohen, Fran McDougall will find under the tree her own radioOn Christmas morning, said Cohen, Fran McDougall will find under the tree her own radio

show so she can stop calling in to WCAP.show so she can stop calling in to WCAP.

Cohen then added to the Board of Health's Richard Day, Santa plans a meeting betweenCohen then added to the Board of Health's Richard Day, Santa plans a meeting between

him and Mike Kowalyk to see who has more to say.him and Mike Kowalyk to see who has more to say.

To Charlie Wojtas, Cohen said with a smile and a look, you're leaving the Library BoardTo Charlie Wojtas, Cohen said with a smile and a look, you're leaving the Library Board

now that you finished reading that book.now that you finished reading that book.

And for Dennis Ready, Cohen offered with some glee, a new name for his cable show,And for Dennis Ready, Cohen offered with some glee, a new name for his cable show,

"It's Not Always About Me.""It's Not Always About Me."

For Town Clerk Betty Delaney, a little fuel to the fire, Cohen promised one last specialFor Town Clerk Betty Delaney, a little fuel to the fire, Cohen promised one last special

election before she retires.election before she retires.

As Cohen wrapped up his show with a flourish of witty might, the laughter quieted down and dance musicfilled the night.

DDoo nnoott CCLLIICCKK HHEERREE

The Lowell Sun’s Politcal Column ChristmasThe Lowell Sun’s Politcal Column Christmas

gifts for the town of Chelmsfordgifts for the town of Chelmsfordby Rita Savard by Rita Savard

12-19-1012-19-10

FOR THE Chelmsford DPW: A calendar andvoice reminder call service so they don’tforget vehicle inspection day.

FOR CHELMSFORD Selectman and formerSenate candidate Eric Dahlberg: A box oftea bags so he can finally have a tea partyof his own.

http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/AFPgwZX2VOYOXZj7WgqJ

Town Manager receives 2 percent pay raiseKevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter • Tue, Dec 07, 2010


The Board of Selectmen voted to award Town Manager Paul Cohen a 2 percent salary increase for fiscalyear 2011 Monday night.

Selectmen used Cohen's fiscal year 2010 base pay of $135,900 coupledwith $6,795 paid into a deferred compensation account as the starting nego-tiation point of $142,695.

Cohen's new salary will be $145,549, which equals $2,854 in raises withnothing placed into the deferred compensation account. The salary isretroactive to July 1.

"The guy wears so many hats and hasn't gotten a raise in years," saidBoard of Selectmen Chairman George Dixon. "I don't think there's aI don't think there's a

harder worker in town than Paul.harder worker in town than Paul."

The 2 percent increase is equal to the step increases all department headsreceived this year, said Cohen.

Cohen recently celebrated his fourth anniversary as Town Manager—hestarted the week after Thanksgiving in 2006. For the past two years,Cohen's did not receive a pay increase.

Selectmen Put Turn Restriction on Delwood DriveSelectmen Put Turn Restriction on Delwood DriveSelectmen decide on turn restriction to deter residents from going around morning traffic.Selectmen decide on turn restriction to deter residents from going around morning traffic.

By Krista Perry 12/7/10

www.chelmsford.patch.comwww.chelmsford.patch.com

Selectmen Monday night voted to place a left turn restriction on Steadman Street so residents will not bypass morningtraffic by turning onto Delwood Drive.

Town Manager Paul Cohen said the concern came from Police Chief James Murphy and Department of Public Works of-ficials agreed to do a traffic study of the area. The study revealed a high volume of drivers turning onto Delwood to by-pass morning traffic, driving through a residential area.

"What's happening is people are using Delwood as a shortcut to avoid traffic on Steadman Street,What's happening is people are using Delwood as a shortcut to avoid traffic on Steadman Street," saidCohen. "The department did a travel study and saw a number of vehicles turning onto Delwood to avoidhe department did a travel study and saw a number of vehicles turning onto Delwood to avoid

the four way stop on Steadman and Dalton Road.the four way stop on Steadman and Dalton Road."

The no left turn restriction will be enforced on weekday morningsbetween 7 a.m. and 9 a.m.

"It would increase safety in roadways,It would increase safety in roadways," said Cohen.

In other business, selectmen also decided to keep the tax classifi-cation uniform in town, rather than taxing businesses and residentsat a different rate.

Selectmen also announced numerous boards and committees arestill looking for members. One seat is available on the Bicycle andPedestrian Advisory Committee, two seats on the Cultural Council,two seats on the Holiday Decorating Committee, two seats on theHousing Advisory Board, one seat on the Recycling Committee, andone seat on the Sign Advisory Committee.

PaulCohen

Board of Selectmen. photo by Krista Perry

Resident requests investigation of 9 North Road litigationResident requests investigation of 9 North Road litigation

By By Monica Jimenez/staff writerGateHouse News Service

Dec 17, 2010

www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsfordwww.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford

Chelmsford resident Roland Van Liew has asked the state Office of Bar Coun-sel to investigate the activities of local attorney Phil Eliopoulos and town coun-sel Kopelman & Paige, suggesting they shouldn’t be involved in litigationsurrounding an Epsilon LLC development underway on 9 North Road.

The lawsuit Van Liew refers to was brought by Chelmsford resident and attor-ney Richard McClure against Epsilon LLC and several town boards. McClureclaims town officials didn’t give residents a proper chance to contest the project.Now, Van Liew is claiming Phil Eliopoulos and the town counsel have conflictsof interest when it comes to 9 North Road.

In a three-page letter dated Dec. 15, Van Liew informs the Office of Bar Counsel that Eliopoulos repre-sented Epsilon LLC during the 9 North Road application process in October 2009 although he had just leftthe Board of Selectman in April of that year. Van Liew argues this violated state ethics laws forbiddingtown officials to appear before town boards on behalf of clients within a year of their leaving office.

“Through Mr. Eliopoulos’s prior associations and personal efforts,Through Mr. Eliopoulos’s prior associations and personal efforts,

Epsilon Group, LLC was able to obtain approvals and eight specialEpsilon Group, LLC was able to obtain approvals and eight special

permits from the Planning Board, Conservation Commission andpermits from the Planning Board, Conservation Commission and

Historic Commission despite the fact that the property was encumHistoric Commission despite the fact that the property was encum--

bered by a 1978 Preservation Restriction,bered by a 1978 Preservation Restriction,” writes Van Liew.

As for Kopelman & Page, Van Liew echoes McClure’s argument as he pointsout the firm advised both the Chelmsford Planning Board and the Board of Se-lectmen as the 9 North Road project came under fire. These boards had con-flicting positions, Van Liew said, which affected the firm’s ability to objectivelyadvise them both. He refers to an email in which Selectman Jon Kurland criti-cized town counsel’s advice regarding 9 North Road.

“I am at a complete loss as to understanding how either Mr.I am at a complete loss as to understanding how either Mr.

Eliopoulos or attorneys for Kopelman & Page can continue to appear in litigation involvEliopoulos or attorneys for Kopelman & Page can continue to appear in litigation involv--

ing the town and these issues,ing the town and these issues,” Van Liew writes. “More disturbingly, from my perspective itMore disturbingly, from my perspective it

appears that they have already engaged in multiple ethical violations concerning conappears that they have already engaged in multiple ethical violations concerning con--

flicts of interest and client loyalties.flicts of interest and client loyalties.”

Van Liew concludes bysuggesting disciplinaryaction might be appropri-ate.

Eliopoulos could not bereached for comment.

Copyright 2010 Chelmsford Independent.

Some rights reserved

Roland Van LiewRoland Van Liew

PhilipPhilip

EliopoulusEliopoulus

Chelmsford resident appeals for solidarity Chelmsford resident appeals for solidarity in asphalt plant fightin asphalt plant fight

By Monica Jimenez/staff writer12/7/10

GateHouse News Service


Chelmsford —Chelmsford resident Pam Armstrong and her neighbors at Scotty Hollow Condominiums are still fightingto keep an asphalt plant from being built in Westford near the Chelmsford line.

At the Board of Selectmen’s meeting Dec. 5, Armstrong urged support for Westford’s selectmen, who arefacing litigation after rejecting Newport Materials LLC’s proposed plant. Armstrong announced she’s gath-ered 220 signatures from Chelmsford residents who oppose the project, many of whom have put theirown money into the effort.

“This project is not dead yet and clearly impacts Chelmsford residents,This project is not dead yet and clearly impacts Chelmsford residents,” Armstrong said.

If built, the asphalt plant would cover four acres and produce 1,000 tons of asphalt per day. Armstrongsaid the project would adversely affect nearby roads, particularly Route 40. She and her neighbors havealso argued the plant would damage the environment.

With legal fees piling up, Westford’s selectmen recently appealed to Chelmsford to help fund the defenseof their decision, but Chelmsford’s selectmen decided the town can’t do so at the moment. At the Dec. 5meeting, Armstrong asked the Chelmsford board to show solidarity with Westford’s board in other ways.

“We’re not looking for $75,000We’re not looking for $75,000,” Armstrong said. “We’re looking for anything you can do toWe’re looking for anything you can do to

help.help.”

Town Manager Paul Cohen told Armstrong at least one Chelmsford official is on the case: Board of HealthDirector Richard Day just attended a hearing in Wilmington held by MassDEP to address the matter.

Selectman Chairman George Dixon promised to go to as many meetings on the project as he could, suchas Westford Board of Selectmen or Planning Board meetings.

“Stay in contact with us, O.K.?Stay in contact with us, O.K.?” he asked Pam Armstrong, who readily agreed.

Copyright 2010 Chelmsford Independent. Some rights reserved

Courtesy photoAn aerial view shows the site where Newport Materials wants to build an asphalt plant on the Chelmsford/Westford line.

Chelmsford St. housing plan pulledKevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter • Tue, Dec 07, 2010


Property owner Charlie Parlee withdrew his plans to add four studio apartments on the second floor of 47Chelmsford St. in the Center.

Originally scheduled to appear before the Planning Board Wednesday, Parlee's hearing has been canceled.

Parlee's attorney Doug Hausler said his client decided not to pursue the housing proposal at this time.

"He is keeping his options open,He is keeping his options open," said Hausler.

The building, which houses a florist and day spa on the first floor, has 16 parking spaces with no additionalspaces planned.

It's already not in compliance with the zoning bylaws that require 24 spaces for a structure its size.

According to an earlier letter from Hausler to the Planning Board, the mixed-use structure would require specialpermits before the plan could proceed.

One special permit would allow the number of parking spaces to remain below the requirement. Another specialpermit would allow Parlee to cut back on the amount of landscaping that would normally be required.

Belated complaint addresses Belated complaint addresses canceled boarding house projectcanceled boarding house project

12/7/10GateHouse News Service


A proposal for a boarding house on Chelmsford Street is still generating buzz after being withdrawn.

An anonymous letter has appeared in some Chelmsford residents’ mailboxes, urging them to oppose a boarding house inthe four units above Feeney the Florist Shop at the corner of Chelmsford and Wilson streets. Shop owner Charles Parleedid apply to begin this project, but withdrew the application almost immediately.

The letters, which are not stamped, addressed or signed, don’t appear to have been mailed. The unknown sender arguesa boarding house will negatively affect Chelmsford’s character and asks recipients to attend a Dec. 8 Planning Boardmeeting to oppose the project.

The boarding house proposal is not on the agenda for that meeting. Planning Board member Colleen Stansfield theorizedthe mailer took his or her information from legal ads giving notice to abutters of the project. Because the proposal waswithdrawn so quickly, the Community Development office was unable to stop the notices from running.

Parlee could not be reached for comment and has not explained why he withdrew the proposal.


Property owner CharlieParlee pulled his proposalto add housing at 47Chelmsford St. (chelmschelms--

fordmassnews fordmassnews File photo)

Chelmsford cracks down on pet lawsBy Rita Savard, [email protected]

12/07/2010

www.lowellsun.com

CHELMSFORD -- Forget about cats and dogs. Chelmsford is going to the birds.

Chickens and other barnyard animals are gaining popularity in town, prompting health officials to clamp down onlicensing regulations. The Board of Health, working with Animal Control Officer Erik Merrill, has modified for thefirst time in more than 50 years the rules on keeping domestic animals.

Guidelines now spell out in writing that chickens, sheep, llamas and a variety of other ani-mals require a license,just like the family dog.

"It happens quite often,It happens quite often," Merrill said. "We've gone out on a call and found people have horses,We've gone out on a call and found people have horses,

ponies or goats when they don't have permits. They never thought about checking with theponies or goats when they don't have permits. They never thought about checking with the

town. They just kind of go out on their own.town. They just kind of go out on their own."

Backyard chickens are becoming increasingly popular as pets -- and in the Board of Health's grievance files.

"The number-one complaint is someone's next-door neighbor decided to get chickens,The number-one complaint is someone's next-door neighbor decided to get chickens," HealthDirector Richard Day said. "When done the right way, neighbors might not even notice the animalsWhen done the right way, neighbors might not even notice the animals

are there. That's why regulations are so important.are there. That's why regulations are so important."

Odor and noise complaints are usually what leads to discovering farm animals in people's yards, Merrill said.

Places that sell garden and farm supplies, especially across the border in New Hampshire, will often sell babychicks at Easter.

"The fact is, you can't bring animals in from another state without having a health certificate,The fact is, you can't bring animals in from another state without having a health certificate,

but the places that sell them usually don't tell people that,but the places that sell them usually don't tell people that," Merrill said.

And more people opting to go green are bringing home a couple of chickens for farm-fresh eggs right in their ownbackyard.

Owning a horse requires having at least an acre. But what do you need for two chickens?

Day and Merrill said there were gaps in Chelmsford's health code about what to do.

The revised code now states that residents seeking to own chickens, outdoor rabbits, game birds, etc., must filea permit application that includes a plan showing suitable enclosures and areas of activity. Zoning requirementsmust be met before any permits can be processed.

The town only has 10 licenses for outdoor animals now on file.

"There are a lot more people with animals out there, so the regulations are clearly being igThere are a lot more people with animals out there, so the regulations are clearly being ig--

nored,nored," Day said.

Licenses for outdoor animals need to be renewed annually and cost about $15. Fines for violating the healthcode range from $20 to $100, depending on the offense.

Because chickens and livestock are susceptible to diseases that can wipe out the species or that can be trans-mittable to humans, health officials say following regulations is even more crucial.

"We'd like to know where all of these animals are in town in case somethingWe'd like to know where all of these animals are in town in case something

goes wrong,goes wrong," Day said. "It's about accountability and keeping the situationIt's about accountability and keeping the situation

controlled. So if you have animals and you're not properly licensed, insteadcontrolled. So if you have animals and you're not properly licensed, instead

of us coming to find you, start applying and get things done right.of us coming to find you, start applying and get things done right."

Chelmsford's tax rate climbsChelmsford's tax rate climbs

$163$163

By Rita Savard [email protected] and Keith O'Neil, Sun Correspondent

www.lowellsun.comwww.lowellsun.com12/08/2010

CHELMSFORD -- Tax bills for the average single-familyhomeowner will climb another $163 under the town'snew tax rate.

Facing more cuts to state aid, selectmen Monday votedto raise property taxes by 2.5 percent, the maximum al-lowed under state law.

The new rate is set at $16.72 per $1,000, up from$15.15 -- totaling the average family's tax bill to about$5,431.

The average home in town is worth about $324,600, according to the town Board of Asses-sors.

Despite the increase in property taxes, Assessor Sam Chase said Chelmsford is "doing well,considering it's bringing in a lot less local aid than some of our neighboring towns."

Westford, Chase added, has a higher median income but receives more Chapter 70 state-ed-ucation funding.

"We still need to fund our localservices," Chase said. "We'reholding our own as best as wecan in this economy."

Selectmen also approved keep-ing the same tax rate for resi-dents and businesses onceagain.

Selectmen Appoint Danielle Evans to Master Plan Implementation CommitteeTown Manager Paul Cohen recommended Evans.Town Manager Paul Cohen recommended Evans.

By Krista Perry December 8, 2010


Town Manager Paul Cohen Monday night recommended Town Meeting Rep. Danielle Evans for a seat on the MasterPlan Implementation Committee. The recommendation comes after applicant Phil Eliopoulos withdrew his name fromconsideration.

Eliopoulos, the builder behind the controversial 9 North Road_ project, had been the sole ap-plicant for the seat on the committee reserved for a Town Meeting Representative. However,selectmen decided to table the appointment because the deadline for applying for the seathad not been properly advertised.

After the board agreed to accept more applicants Eliopoulos withdrew his name and six TownMeeting Reps applied.

"He withdrew his application I guess with regret. He wanted to serve the townHe withdrew his application I guess with regret. He wanted to serve the town

and had done a good job working on the Master Plan Committeeand had done a good job working on the Master Plan Committee," said Cohen ofEliopoulos. "But concerns were raised and he thought it would be in the best inBut concerns were raised and he thought it would be in the best in--

terest of the town to step aside.terest of the town to step aside."

Cohen said when looking at the applications, he wanted to get some new people more involved in the town.

"The sense was the three members carrying over (from the Master Plan Committee) would be sufficientThe sense was the three members carrying over (from the Master Plan Committee) would be sufficient

for continuity. I then went to criteria based upon new people involved who may not have served (thefor continuity. I then went to criteria based upon new people involved who may not have served (the

town). Of the two people who had not served on any board, one was in first term and the other in atown). Of the two people who had not served on any board, one was in first term and the other in a

second term as Town Meeting Rep.,second term as Town Meeting Rep.," said Cohen.

Cohen nominated Danielle Evans of Janet Road, who is a second-term Town Meeting Rep. Cohen said Evans is an attor-ney and has also been involved in the South Row PTO.

Town Hall projects remain on trackTown Hall projects remain on trackKevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter • Fri, Dec 10, 2010Kevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter • Fri, Dec 10, 2010


Earlier this week, the town hall projects earned two of the three board approvals needed beEarlier this week, the town hall projects earned two of the three board approvals needed be--

fore both can proceed.fore both can proceed.

On Wednesday, the Planning Board unanimously voted to approve the site plan review and awardedOn Wednesday, the Planning Board unanimously voted to approve the site plan review and awarded

the project special permits related to inadequate setbacks and work on a non-conforming structure.the project special permits related to inadequate setbacks and work on a non-conforming structure.

The Center Town Hall is currently located too close to the bike trail. It will be even closer with its proThe Center Town Hall is currently located too close to the bike trail. It will be even closer with its pro--

posed addition on the rear of the structure.posed addition on the rear of the structure.

The Historic District Commission OK'd the project on Monday.The Historic District Commission OK'd the project on Monday.

Next Tuesday, the Historical Commission meets to review a demolition delay request because some ofNext Tuesday, the Historical Commission meets to review a demolition delay request because some of

the work involves removing parts of both structures.the work involves removing parts of both structures.

To date, both projects appear to be running right on or slightly above the budgets, said PermanentTo date, both projects appear to be running right on or slightly above the budgets, said Permanent

Building Committee Co-chairman Pat Maloney.Building Committee Co-chairman Pat Maloney.

Town Meeting approved spending $2.56 million of Community Preservation Fund money to renovateTown Meeting approved spending $2.56 million of Community Preservation Fund money to renovate

the Center Town Hall and another $2.85 million for work at the North Town Hall back in April.the Center Town Hall and another $2.85 million for work at the North Town Hall back in April.

"We went through the estimates and the estimates are somewhat flawed," said Maloney. "There are"We went through the estimates and the estimates are somewhat flawed," said Maloney. "There are

some things missing and other things added in. We need to adjust for some of the pluses and misome things missing and other things added in. We need to adjust for some of the pluses and mi--

nuses."nuses."

Both projects still maintain design and construction contingencies but Maloney thinks it is possible toBoth projects still maintain design and construction contingencies but Maloney thinks it is possible to

reduce the design contingency from the current 10 percent to 1 or 2 percent.reduce the design contingency from the current 10 percent to 1 or 2 percent.

"The intent here is to really refine the scope thoroughly so we have the level of confidence needed to"The intent here is to really refine the scope thoroughly so we have the level of confidence needed to

move forward," said Maloney.move forward," said Maloney.

There have been some discussions on whether these projThere have been some discussions on whether these proj--

ects are renovations or restorations. A restoration would reects are renovations or restorations. A restoration would re--

quire costly replications of windows, doors and otherquire costly replications of windows, doors and other

fixtures.fixtures.

Town Manager Paul Cohen said as voted on at Town MeetTown Manager Paul Cohen said as voted on at Town Meet--

ing both projects were deemed renovations. That is theing both projects were deemed renovations. That is the

projects involve creating two buildings that could be usedprojects involve creating two buildings that could be used

as community centers and not museums.as community centers and not museums.

Maloney agreed.Maloney agreed.

"We're not trying to put a relic back in place to be visited as a relic," said Maloney."We're not trying to put a relic back in place to be visited as a relic," said Maloney.

Maloney expects to put both projects out to bid by Dec. 17.Maloney expects to put both projects out to bid by Dec. 17.

DanielleDanielle

EvansEvans

Historical Commission OKs Demolition Request for Historical Commission OKs Demolition Request for

North and Center Town HallsNorth and Center Town HallsThe decision ensures renovation plans can continue

By Brandon Schillemat - 12/15/10


The Historical Commission Tuesday night approved a demolition reuqest for North and Old Town Halls so renovations cancontinue. Patrick Maloney, the Chairman of the Permanent Building Committee, presented renovation plans to the com-mission for both buildings. Both buildings are under a preservation restriction--meaning that the Historical Commissionmust approve any anticipated demolition.

Jack Glassman introduced the demolition plans to the board. Glassman specializes in historic preservation at BargmannHendrie and Archetype, Inc. and is the lead architect on the project.

"Both projects are partial demolitions, they're selected demolitions, and this is all part of the processBoth projects are partial demolitions, they're selected demolitions, and this is all part of the process

of renovating,of renovating," Glassman said to the commission.

The goal of the renovation and demolition project is to complete some much needed aesthetic and structural upgrades.Both buildings must also meet Americans with Disabilities Act and building code requirements. Glassman said the goalwas to make this upgrades while keeping both buildings as original as possible.

"Both of them are significant buildings with historical and architectural character contributing to theBoth of them are significant buildings with historical and architectural character contributing to the

cultural history…of the town,cultural history…of the town," Glassman said.

The planned demolition will include the 1939 addition to the Center Town Hall, also known as Chelmsford Center for theArts, as well as a gabled access to North Town Hall's basement, and stairs leading to a back entrance. The demolition istargeting code violations and addressing accessibility concerns, Glassman said.

The commission made requests for the renovations to use period-piece materials as much as possible, including brick re-covered in the demolition, and natural stone for the stairs at North Town Hall. Maloney invited the commission to attendthe Permanent Building Committee's next meeting, where the paint colors for the North Town Hall would be proposed.

Along with concerns about details of the renovations, there were some issues with the compatibility of the plans that thecommission had received and the plans being presented before the board.

"It makes it a little difficult,It makes it a little difficult," said George Merrill, the commission chairman. "I'm trying to study this and thenI'm trying to study this and then

you come in with something new.you come in with something new."

Maloney assured the board that there had been no changes to the areas requesting to be demolished.

"We've been making changes to the plans going forward, but the demolition is what we're here for thisWe've been making changes to the plans going forward, but the demolition is what we're here for this

evening,evening," said Maloney. Maloney also told the commission he wasn't aware that they wanted to approve anything otherthan the demolition requests.

"We're happy to come back and update this board once we get a little further down the road, we're justWe're happy to come back and update this board once we get a little further down the road, we're just

trying to make sure that the demolition is acceptable to this board,trying to make sure that the demolition is acceptable to this board," he said.

The project is on the fast track because of the timetable of the renovations, he said.

"We've been trying to progress along so that we can get the bid out in a timely manner and take advanWe've been trying to progress along so that we can get the bid out in a timely manner and take advan--

tage of certain economies,tage of certain economies," said Maloney.

Before the commission voted, Richard McNamee, a member of the commission, informed Maloney that he had the wrongforms for the demolition request.

"For your information, it's an invalid request,For your information, it's an invalid request," McNamee said to Maloney. "You were told wrong, but youYou were told wrong, but you

did the right thing by following what you were told.did the right thing by following what you were told."

The problem was the form was nothing more than an application, and not a valid approvalfor demolition. The commission decided to go through with the vote despite this fact, andvoted unanimously to support the demolition.

Members of the commission decided to speak with the building inspector so that the proce-dural wrinkles could be ironed out. The commission will eventually sign off on the demoli-tion permit, as supplied by the building inspector, and the portions of the town halls will beofficially approved to be demolished.

Heated debate on Center Fire Station planHeated debate on Center Fire Station planKevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter • Tue, Dec 07, 2010


Members of the board originally charged with developing a new Center Fire Center urged the Permanent Building Com-mittee to slow down on plans to bring an alternative proposal to Town Meeting in April.

Discussions about the Center Station dominated the early part of Tuesday night's Permanent Building Committee meet-ing.Bill Dalton, who served on the DPW/Fire Study Committee, questioned why that group's choice of Wilson and Chelms-ford streets was no longer an option.

"I can't understand why after spending $85,000 to do a study you would reinvent the wheel,I can't understand why after spending $85,000 to do a study you would reinvent the wheel," said Dalton."We own the property. It's flat. You dig a hole and put in a foundation.We own the property. It's flat. You dig a hole and put in a foundation."

Moving the project to North Road would require shrinking the station's footprint, said Dalton. The fire department needsmore space, not less, at the Center, and the North Road idea would prevent that from happening, said Dalton.

"The building will be obsolete when it opens,The building will be obsolete when it opens," said Dalton. "I just don't want to be in a situation like theI just don't want to be in a situation like the

high school. There were plans to put in an auditorium when it was built but that was scrapped to savehigh school. There were plans to put in an auditorium when it was built but that was scrapped to save

money.money."

Permanent Building Committee Co-Chairman Pat Maloney said the town needs to move forward with a new Center FireStation but officials have to realize another proposal needs to be cheaper than the one residents voted down.

"We're just trying to get some ideas. We need to put some options out there and open it up to publicWe're just trying to get some ideas. We need to put some options out there and open it up to public

discussiondiscussion," said Maloney. "I don't believe this town will support a $12 million or $13 million plan. WeI don't believe this town will support a $12 million or $13 million plan. We

need to be more creative.need to be more creative."

With money left over from the original study, Maloney commissioned Weston & Sampson to develop preliminary sketchesfor a smaller station.

"Nothing is etched in stone,Nothing is etched in stone," said Maloney. "We'd like to see these guys in the proper facility.We'd like to see these guys in the proper facility."

Town Manager Paul Cohen said because the Center Fire Station must remain in the Center, possible building locationswould be limited.

"One site is Wilson Street,One site is Wilson Street," said Cohen. "One is the current site. Another one is the lot across from St.One is the current site. Another one is the lot across from St.

Mary's and that will be looked at.Mary's and that will be looked at."

Paul Eriksen, who served on the first study committee, also pushed for the building committee to focus on constructing anew station at Wilson and Chelmsford streets.

"We spent two years to develop that spot. As far as the committee's study went, that was the perfectWe spent two years to develop that spot. As far as the committee's study went, that was the perfect

site,site," said Eriksen.

"Go back to the original site; sell that site to the town with a scaled-down building. We looked at everyGo back to the original site; sell that site to the town with a scaled-down building. We looked at every

possible site in town and that’s what came out on top.possible site in town and that’s what came out on top."

Maloney stressed although a new Center Fire Station is needed, his committee must ensure residents and town officialswould support a proposal. To do that, he said, officials must look at ways to reduce the costs.

"All we're doing is throwing out another idea to see what's feasible,All we're doing is throwing out another idea to see what's feasible," said Maloney.

"I'm throwing out another idea,I'm throwing out another idea," said Dalton."Go back to the original plan.Go back to the original plan."

After 30 years, moderator gives up the gavelAfter 30 years, moderator gives up the gavelBy Monica Jimenez/staff writer

www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsfordDec 10, 2010

After 30 years of serving as Town Moderator, Dennis McHugh is stepping down.

McHugh’s public service began with a library trustee position. A regular attendee of town meetings, he found he enjoyed the processand decided to get more involved by replacing Dan Coughlin as moderator.

The moderator’s responsibilities include running the annual and special Town Meetings, sitting on the Representative Appeal Commit-tee and appointing the seven members of the Finance Committee. Informally, the Moderator is available to the community to help withquestions about town meeting or warrant articles.

Q Why did you decide not to seek the moderator position again?

A I believe in term limits and I think 30 years is enough! I have really enjoyed serving as Moderator but I think it is time to pass thegavel.

Q What did you expect coming into the job, and did you turn out to be right?

A I expected the job to be very challenging for two reasons. First, we had an open Town Meeting form of government at the time and itwas a little less disciplined than our current meetings. We usually had about 300 active attendees. So, it was a dynamic situation andnot like anything I'd done before. Second, I was only 32 at the time so, although I'd been practicing law for about four years, I was anew face and I expected challenges. I did find it to be challenging but not unmanageable. I prepared carefully and sought the advice ofa close friend and town counsel, attorney Clem McCarthy, and he provided good guidance to help through the first few meetings. Meet-ings lasted for weeks at that time.

We adopted the Representative Town Meeting form of government in 1989 and I served on an advisory committee of Town MeetingRepresentatives that created most of the structure that exists today. With elected Town Meeting Representatives, we have a consistent,informed group of legislators. Our meetings are more efficient and take less time to make good decisions.

Q Has the town changed over the years?

A The town has certainly changed physically. Thirty years of development and traffic controls has an impact on the community. How-ever, there is a lot that has not changed. I think people still feel they can contribute and have an effect on their government and that'sthe advantage of town government.

Q Has the job given you insight into how Chelmsford works?

A I have a much better understanding on how the town works internally and how it interacts with the state. The coordination of financialresources and controls is very complex and the relationships of various groups providing services is very interesting.

Town Meeting has always been an interesting event and I have learned a lot from a number of people. I think there's something to belearned from each person who makes a presentation on an article.

Q What did you find most challenging about the job? How about the most rewarding?

A I think it is very challenging to balance each person's viewpoint or goal with the goals of the town meeting. Most times, there are goodpoints on all sides of any issue and it's very important for the Moderator to respect all the participants.

Almost in the same vein, I think people have felt that they have had a satisfactory op-portunity to participate in the town meeting process and have appreciated my effort tobe impartial and fair.

Q How has the job changed you?

A I understand the legislative process much better, and that translates to the state andthe national scene. I can understand, appreciate, and value the way we, as a democ-racy move forward. We often do not do things in the most efficient way but we usuallydo them well.

Q What was your favorite part of the job?

AI enjoyed the feeling that I was managing a dynamic situation in an orderly way and,hopefully, those meetings have brought the town to make better decisions over thepast 30 years. We have also had an outstanding Finance Committee for 30 years thathas been a really valuable resource to the town.

Q What will you do now?

A Of course, I'll continue to practice law in Chelmsford Center and would look forwardto more time for personal projects or interests, but, after thirty years, I certainly wouldnot be surprised to continue to be involved in public service.

Dennis McHugh Dennis McHugh

was Chelmford's was Chelmford's

Town ModeratorTown Moderator

for 30 years.for 30 years.

Family finds support after accidentBy Monica Jimenez/staff writer


www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsfordwww.wickedlocal.com/chelmsfordDec 10, 2010

Chelmsford —You can’t go in the front door of the Larsons’ Bridge Street house. Lacking a stoop, it opens onto emptyspace and a sharp drop. Visitors instead tramp up a long staircase from the driveway to the side porch.

For Erick Larson, this stairway is now longer than the Appalachian Trail he once hiked. After falling from a30-foot ladder last month, Larson is paralyzed from the waist down.

Larson, who fell while trimming tree branches in his front yard, was rushed to Lahey Clinic, where twofamily friends waited in the emergency room as surgeons operated to stabilize his spinal fractures. Doc-tors later broke the news to his wife Liz and their two kids: He would survive, but his vertebra had burst,destroying the nerves within and paralyzing him.

At Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Larson is learning to get around in a wheelchair and preparing to re-turn to work as an accountant at Philip’s.

He and Liz have also begun to tackle the most difficult question: After losing the use of your legs, how doyou return home?

New set of concerns

Liz Larson knows something about fixing up a house. The owner of Festive Elements in Chelmsford, she can dress up any four walls like no-body’s business. But now she’s facing a different kind of redecorating, marked by concerns like: Are these hallways wide enough for awheelchair? Could a paralyzed person get in and out of this bathtub? And how do you fund this kind of renovation with one salary and short-term disability compensation?

For the first weeks after Erick’s accident, Liz was in shock and couldn’t consider these questions. She didn’t want to talk to anyone or evenleave the house — she avoided driving, fearing she might forget she was behind the wheel. Then, while she was talking to her mother oneday, it hit her.

“We don’t live in a handicapped home,We don’t live in a handicapped home,” she blurted out.

Liz’s mother told her what doctors told Erick when, given a practice wheelchair, he pushed to lose the training wheels and graduate to thereal thing.

“One day at a timeOne day at a time,” Liz’s mother said.

And day by day, what started with two friends in the emergency room continued with meals dropped off at the house every day, offers of helpwith the kids and letters and cards in the mail. The phone kept ringing and neighbors came in person to prod Liz out of the house and takeher grocery shopping. One day, Liz mentioned Taster’s Choice coffee; the next, a container of it appeared on her kitchen counter. She be-came wary of asking the time for fear someone would instantly buy her a clock.

Individual efforts coalesced into a support group called the Long Trail Home, which opened an account at Enterprise bank in the name of theFriends of Erick Larson and planned a Jan. 7 fundraiser to defray Erick’s rehab and renovation costs. The Lowell Lodge of Elks offered theirhall free of charge, while the music group AttiK declined payment for performing that night.

On the edge of tears, Liz admitted she’d grown up in the city and balked at moving to Chelmsford, but as soon as she arrived on BridgeStreet she knew she’d made the right choice. Growing up, her children Rene and Marco went to countless Halloween parties, Secret Santasand end-of-the-year ice cream socials. They’ve been baby-sat by parents up and down the street and showered with the affection of an en-tire neighborhood.

“It’s always been this way since the kids were little,It’s always been this way since the kids were little,” Liz said. “I’m not surprised my neighbors are doing what they’reI’m not surprised my neighbors are doing what they’re

doing – but this goes above and beyond.doing – but this goes above and beyond.”

Before his accident, Erick coached soccer in town, while Liz has often volunteered with the PTOs at her children’s schools. She said it’s allcoming back to them now.

“It feels like having a warm blanket wrapped around me,It feels like having a warm blanket wrapped around me,” she said. “All the time.All the time.”

Focused on bringing Erick home

Liz and Erick joke the Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital is the place to be – she can just wheel him next door to the TD Banknorth Garden towatch the games.

Attributing Erick’s attitude to his youth and strength, doctors warn him not to get too comfortable. He could be on his way back to BridgeStreet before his surgery scars heal.

Inevitably, the question returns: How do you get a wheelchair up a 20-foot flight of stairs?

The answer: You don’t. Your neighbors Larry Gagnon and Michael McTeague plan a ramp for your front door. When you ask what it’ll cost,they tell you – nicely – to get out of the way.

“You know what they say,You know what they say,” said Liz, who had originally planned with Erick to put in new front steps themselves. “Out of tragedy, goodOut of tragedy, good

things come.things come.”

She added with the community taking care of everything she can think of, her family is free to think about what matters.

“We’re just focused on bringing Erick home,” she said.


ErickErick

LarsonLarson

ASK THE MANAGERASK THE MANAGERIn-Town Report:In-Town Report:What have been the biggest successes in your first 4 years?What have been the biggest successes in your first 4 years?

Paul Cohen:Paul Cohen:The biggest success during the past four years has been how everyone has pulledtogether to help advance the community during an historic economic downturn. TheTown has been well served by the many volunteers who serve or have served ontown boards such as the Board of Selectmen, School Committee, and Finance Com-mittee. While there has been an unavoidable reduction in the level of town services,we have been able to maintain a solid core. Likewise, the Town's employees, such asits professional firefighters, police officers, and school teachers, have achieved more with less resources. Citi-zen volunteers, such as the Chelmsford Open Space Stewards, have done remarkable work in improving thequality of the Town's open spaces.

During this time, the Town has obtained its reimbursement for the Chelmsford High School and middle schoolprojects, acquired open space at the Lewis property and Heart Pond, begun the renovation of the two town halls,developed a community garden, started a farmers' market, expended its recycling program, updated its MasterPlan, confronted an ice storm, acquired a new DPW facility location, and become one of the first Green Commu-nities in the Commonwealth.

ITR:ITR:What have been your biggest challenges in your first 4 years?What have been your biggest challenges in your first 4 years?

P C :P C :The biggest challenges have been economic. The reduction in local aid and decline in local revenues have lim-ited our ability to offer expended educational and public safety services. The closure of a fire station and of theWestlands Elementaqry School are the most visible examples of these service reductions. Also, the expendednews coverage has been challenging. Town operations and activities are now covered by reporters from twoweb-based news services, one weekly newspaper with on-line updates, and a daily newspaper with on-line cov-erage. The competitive nature of these media sources produces a pressure by the reporters to be the first to re-port "breaking news" and in some instance news "infotainment". Often instead of in-depth analysis or editorialopinion, there are polls and anonymous commentary.This results in the distribution of information to board members outside of meetings in order that they may beable to respond to formal and informal inquiries from the media and the public.

The failed recall effort and misleading mailings of "information" to town residents has discouraged participationin civic activities and often overshadowed the accomplishments within the community.

ITR:ITR:What do you look forward to the most for for the town in 2011?What do you look forward to the most for for the town in 2011?

P C :P C :I look forward to working for another year with the dedicated employees and volunteers who serve the Town. Weare so fortunate to have a responsible representative town meeting body and general citizenry. I look forward toimproving our performance, providing improved transparency in Town operations, and continued long-termplanning.

ITR:ITR: What do you feel needs a "caution sign" for the town in 2011What do you feel needs a "caution sign" for the town in 2011

P C :P C :We need to be cautious not to be discouraged or misled by those who wish to tear down rather than elevate theTown. We should not be afraid to fail. We should be willing to accept that mistakes will be made, but realize thatoverall the results of our efforts will be positive.

ITR:ITR: What is your New Year's wish for the town of Chelmsford?What is your New Year's wish for the town of Chelmsford?

P C :P C : My wish is to continue our efforts to enhance the quality of life in the community. This will be accom-

plished by addressing the need for a new center fire station, placing additional Town-owned land in permanentconservation status, developing an outdoor green space area at the Adams Library, expanding the access toBartlett Park, installing solar panels and energy efficient operations at municipal buildings, creating a new com-munity garden in North Chelmsford off of Wotton Lane, providing new softball fields at the McCarthy SchoolFields, and preserving the historic character of the town. Working together we can further elevate a great com-munity.

Town truck flips on Robin Hill RoadSun, Dec 12, 2010


Wintry conditions caused a Chelmsford Department of Public Works sander truck to flip Sunday morning on Robin Hill Road.

The driver was not injured but was taken to the hospital as aprecaution.

Christopher's and Coady's towing companies responded tothe scene and discovered the vehicle on its side.

The truck's fuel tank was resting on a rock so the tow companies needed to use a rotator to remove the vehicle.

Crashed Chelmsford DPW truck's Crashed Chelmsford DPW truck's

inspection due in '08inspection due in '08By Rita Savard, [email protected]


CHELMSFORD -- A sweep of inspection stickers on town-owned vehicles is under way after a sandertruck recovered from an accident scene Sunday revealed an expired decal from April 2008.

Town Manager Paul Cohen said yesterday that town vehicles are checked annually, but somehow the De-partment of Public Works sander truck was "just missedjust missed." The truck was last inspected in April 2007.

The vehicle flipped on Robin Hill Road on Sunday morning after it slid on black ice. It was one of severaldozen crashes in Lowell and surrounding towns that day, when icy road conditions took motorists andDPW crews by surprise.

Cohen said the accident was primarily due to the slipperyroad and not because of any mechanical malfunctions.Still, it was unclear yesterday as to why the truck's inspec-tion had fallen behind nearly three years.

"I don't have an answer for that,I don't have an answer for that," Cohen said. "I'mI'm

not aware that a vehicle has been out of complinot aware that a vehicle has been out of compli--

ance before. It's not like there's a pattern here.ance before. It's not like there's a pattern here.

We don't want vehicles on the road that aren'tWe don't want vehicles on the road that aren't

safe to be on the road. We were out double-safe to be on the road. We were out double-

checking all of them today.checking all of them today."

Cohen said he expected a report on the rest of the townfleet by the end of the work day today.

Earlier this year, Town Meeting approved spending $130,000 for a new sander to replace a 19-year-oldvehicle. Another sander will be requested in the spring. The average life of larger work vehicles is about20 years, Cohen said.

Despite the troubled economy and the town's tight finances, Cohen stressed yesterday that the town hasnot fallen short on its capital investment plan. The town has more than 200 vehicles, including more than60 between the Sewer and Highway departments.

"We would not put somebody in a vehicle that wasn't safe,We would not put somebody in a vehicle that wasn't safe," he said. "This was an unfortuThis was an unfortu--

nate oversight, and we will make sure it doesn't happen again.nate oversight, and we will make sure it doesn't happen again."

The driver of the vehicle was not seriously injured but did take yesterday off work because he was sore,Cohen said.

Photo courtesy of Christopher's Towing.Photo courtesy of Christopher's Towing.

The inspection sticker on a Chelmsford DPW sandertruck that flipped onto its side Sunday morning in icy conditions expired in April 2008, prompting the town to check all stickers

of town-owned vehicles.

Courtesy photo

Crackdown reveals 6 more expired inspections in DPW Town manager says road conditions caused Sunday's crash

By Rita Savard, [email protected]


CHELMSFORD -- Inspection-sticker checks on town-owned vehicles yesterday revealed six more bad decals.

Following the discovery of an expired inspection sticker on a Chelmsford sander truck Sunday, more than 60 Depart-ment of Public Works vehicles were examined.

"It is inexcusable,It is inexcusable," Town Manager Paul Cohen said. "And it won't happen again. All the vehicles nowAnd it won't happen again. All the vehicles now

have updated stickers.have updated stickers."

Yesterday's inspection of the DPW fleet was prompted by a sander truck involved in an accident on Robin Hill Roadearly Sunday morning. Sliding on black ice, the vehicle flipped on its side. When the truck was hauled away, it wasdiscovered that the inspection sticker had expired in April 2008.

Cohen stressed that the accident was caused by road conditions and not by any mechanical failures. Black ice thatmorning was tied to several dozen crashes in Lowell and surrounding towns.

Still, the same sander truck also managed to slide by without a safety inspection for three years. Cohen said he was-n't sure how the inspections were overlooked but is taking measures to prevent similar incidents down the road.

Cohen will seek to change DPW vehicle inspections so all trucks are checked during the same month, just like thetown's police fleet. He hopes to begin same-month inspections at the start of the next fiscal year, beginning July 1.

"Having all the vehicles inspected at once makes it easier to keep track of every single vehicle onHaving all the vehicles inspected at once makes it easier to keep track of every single vehicle on

the road,the road," he said. "It's hard to miss anything that way.It's hard to miss anything that way."

Information on the company that conducted yesterday's vehicle inspections was unavailable before press time.Cohen said the town will have a written public record of the procedure by the end of this week.

Although seven trucks, including the one involved in Sunday's accident, had expired stickers, six received new stick-ers without problems yesterday, Cohen said. The sander that flipped on Robin Hill Road is still in need of repairs anda new inspection before it's put back on the road.

Expired stickers in Chelmsford spurred some inventorying in other communities.

After reading yesterday's Sun article on the Chelmsford sander truck, Tyngsboro's interim public-works director, JimHustins, said he phoned Town Administrator Michael Gilleberto to reassure him that the inspection stickers on thetown's trucks are all current.

All 12 of the Tyngsboro department's trucks, including eight sanders, have up-to-date inspection stickers. Hustinssaid inspections of all active trucks in the fleet take place each October and November. The town pays for the inspec-tions, which cost $129 for each large truck.

A spot check at Dracut Public Works by a Sun reporter revealed up-to-date stickers on all trucks housed at the town'sHildreth Street garage. Stickers on those vehicles don't expire until November 2011.

At the Lowell Public Works Department headquarters on Middlesex Street, each truck featured current stickers.

Lowell DPW spokesman Ed Flynn said only three diesel department trucks failed inspection this year.

"And they were pulled off the road,And they were pulled off the road," he said. "They did not fail safety inspections, only emissions.hey did not fail safety inspections, only emissions."

On an informal check of the Tewksbury Department of Public Works parking lot yesterday,only one vehicle was found in the lot. That vehicle's sticker was current.

Tewksbury DPW Director Brian Gilbert said the town does not have any public-works vehicleswith expired inspection stickers.

Staff reporters Joyce Tsai, Erin Smith, Evan Lips and John Collins contributed to this report.

From the FARSIDE of Chelmsford

It’s A Wonderful

TownCLICK HERE

Town Talk Town Talk Dennis Ready & Mary Gregoire- 12/9/10 with Captain Philip Cohen

Dennis talks with Air Force Captain Philip Cohen about the"The Community Ice Project" to be built at McFarlin Parkat the corner of Wilson Street and Chelmsford Street.

CLICK HERECLICK HERE

Volunteers plan ice rink constructionVolunteers plan ice rink constructionBy By Monica Jimenez/staff writer


www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsfordwww.wickedlocal.com/chelmsfordDec 16, 2010

Construction on an ice rink planned for McFarlin Field in Chelmsford may begin Saturday, Dec. 18.

It’s unclear whether the project, which depends on donations from local businesses, has gatheredenough funds and supplies to move forward. Volunteers plan to build a rink 125 by 75 feet, slightlysmaller than a standard hockey rink, which would require lumber, plastic sheeting, 28,000 gallonsof water and equipment like goal nets.

“We’re doing our best to move forward with this project on Saturday, but the 18thWe’re doing our best to move forward with this project on Saturday, but the 18th

is tentative at presentis tentative at present,” said Chelmsford resident and Air Force Captain Phil Cohen, who’sleading the volunteers working on the project.

Since he announced plans for the rink, Cohen has been shooting to start construction Dec. 18 andopen the rink Jan. 1. He said he’ll know more as he continues to monitor sponsorship levels andpursue strategies such as business signs and talks with Chelmsford’s Town Manager.

“We’re still reaching out to local businesses to garner support for this effort, and IWe’re still reaching out to local businesses to garner support for this effort, and I

am confident that this project will be a success,am confident that this project will be a success,” Cohen said.


http://www.viddler.com/explore/re007hq/videos/170/

http://www.viddler.com/explore/re007hq/videos/170/

http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/8KWcQp5ZhjqEyUU77DbV





Friends,I just wanted to take a minute to let everyone know that we're moving our targetconstruction date to this Sunday, 19 December, at 9:00am (McFarlin Parksoftball field). We're still working on securing the materials needed for thisconstruction effort, but I'm optimistic that we'll be able to move forward withthe construction of the rink's perimeter this weekend. If issues arise with thedelivery of our materials, I will send out an e-mail no later than Saturdayevening to let everyone know that we will have to re-schedule our Sundaygathering (our make-up date is likely to fall during the week of 27-31December).

We're still looking for donations. All-in-all, our goal is to raise $5,000. This money will be used to cover the cost of the rink (we have had to dig deepinto our pockets to fund the initial $2,200 material expense) and to buy somemuch-needed equipment to maintain the ice rink throughout the season.

At present, we have received $230 in donations. I am very thankful for thosewho have already contributed (THANK YOU!), but we will need to raise more moneyto ensure project success. Feel free to spread this message around town byusing the attached flyer.

I hope to see everyone at 9:00am this Sunday. Should you have any questions,please let me know.

Have a great evening.

Very Respectfully,Phil Cohen

//SIGNED//PHILIP J. COHENDirector, The Community Ice ProjectCell: 719-439-8489

The Jig Is UpThe Jig Is UpTown Meeting Representatives who are up for re-election

in

2011

PCT 1PCT 1

Patricia E DzurisPatricia E Dzuris

Cynthia J KaplanCynthia J Kaplan

Karen I KowalskiKaren I Kowalski

Ann B McGuiganAnn B McGuigan

Timothy S. McIlvennaTimothy S. McIlvenna

Steven D MitchellSteven D Mitchell

PCT 2PCT 2

Thomas M Crowe, Jr.Thomas M Crowe, Jr.

Laura A. LeeLaura A. Lee

George L MerrillGeorge L Merrill

David W. MoreyDavid W. Morey

John W ThompsonJohn W Thompson

Mary Jo WelchMary Jo Welch

PCT 3PCT 3

Pamela L ArmstrongPamela L Armstrong

Michael F CurranMichael F Curran

Patricia F MagnellPatricia F Magnell

Michael F McCallMichael F McCall

Thomas E MoranThomas E Moran

Leonard A Olenchak, JrLeonard A Olenchak, Jr

PCT 4PCT 4

Andrew J GreenAndrew J Green

Brian P LatinaBrian P Latina

Stephen J MaffetoneStephen J Maffetone

Kirk MarshallKirk Marshall

Brenda E PlunkettBrenda E Plunkett

Elizabeth M RipsomElizabeth M Ripsom

PCT 5PCT 5

Angelique M EliopoulosAngelique M Eliopoulos

Edwin Paul EriksenEdwin Paul Eriksen

Matthew J HansonMatthew J Hanson

Jon H KurlandJon H Kurland

Cheryl M PerkinsCheryl M Perkins

Evelyn S ThorenEvelyn S Thoren

PCT 6PCT 6

Michael A CombsMichael A Combs

Deborah L DeryDeborah L Dery

Roy W EarleyRoy W Earley

Mary E FrantzMary E Frantz

Howard J HallHoward J Hall

John P KivlanJohn P Kivlan

PCT 7PCT 7

Alexander E BuckAlexander E Buck

Stratos G DukakisStratos G Dukakis

Paul F GleasonPaul F Gleason

Clare L JeannotteClare L Jeannotte

Paul J RigazioPaul J Rigazio

Andrew V. SilinshAndrew V. Silinsh

PCT 8PCT 8

Walter A ClevenWalter A Cleven

Bruce I MandelBruce I Mandel

Dennis J ReadyDennis J Ready

Angelo J TarantoAngelo J Taranto

Deborah VillanoDeborah Villano

Gail T ZaharoolisGail T Zaharoolis

PCT 9PCT 9

Anna P GravesAnna P Graves

Susan B GravesSusan B Graves

William P GriffinWilliam P Griffin

James L HickeyJames L Hickey

Leighann P SciaccaLeighann P Sciacca

Leonard E WestgateLeonard E Westgate

POLITICALLY INCORRECT’S CITIZENS OF THE YEAROn December 14th 2010 Seven Chelmsfordians were honored for their dedicated service to our town.Presenters were Town Manager Paul Cohen, TM Rep Sheila PichetteSelectman George Dixon, & Conservation Commission Chair Dave McLachlan.Also there was talk about other town issues on the show.

SPILLING THE SPILLING THE (coffee)(coffee)BEANSBEANSAnother "Support our Town Coffee" on December 15th at the Java RoomAnother "Support our Town Coffee" on December 15th at the Java Room

JON KURLANDJON KURLAND

ALEX BUCKALEX BUCK BOB BOB

JOYCEJOYCE

RICKRICK

MAHONEYMAHONEY

ALISONALISON

LUDWIGLUDWIG CHARLIECHARLIE

WOJTASWOJTAS

GEORGE GEORGE

DIXONDIXON FRANFRAN

McDOUGALMcDOUGAL JIMJIM

LANELANEANGIEANGIE

TARANTOTARANTO JANETJANET

ASKENBURGASKENBURG

PATPAT

MALONEYMALONEYBETTYBETTY

TWOMBLYTWOMBLY

SANTIAGOSANTIAGO

RIOSRIOS

PAULPAUL

COHENCOHEN KATHYKATHY

DUFFETTDUFFETT

CAROL & WALTERCAROL & WALTER

CLEVENCLEVEN

NICOLE GEADANICOLE GEADA

DANIELLE EVANSDANIELLE EVANS

PATTY MURPHYPATTY MURPHY

NICK DESILVIONICK DESILVIO

TOM TOM

CHRISTIANOCHRISTIANO MONICA MONICA

JIMENEZ ROY JIMENEZ ROY

EARLEYEARLEY

SCOTT O’NEILSCOTT O’NEIL

DAVEDAVE

McLACHLANMcLACHLAN

PAT WOJTASPAT WOJTAS

KRISTA PERRY KRISTA PERRY

DEAN DEAN

CONTOVERCONTOVER

Kathy Kathy Kathy Kathy

Fitzpatrick BroughFitzpatrick Brough

MICHAELMICHAEL

KOWALYKKOWALYK

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http://www.viddler.com/explore/intownreport/videos/9/

Chelmsford Teachers Take Action To Support Negotiating TeamChelmsford Teachers Take Action To Support Negotiating Team

A statement from the teachers union in ChelmsfordA statement from the teachers union in Chelmsford12/7/10


On Friday, December 10, Chelmsford teachers will not be attending professional de-velopment workshops sponsored by the school administration. Instead, in a show ofsupport for the Chelmsford Federation of Teachers' negotiating team, teachers will beworking individually and in groups to fulfill their own professional development goalsand plans.

Chelmsford teachers have been bargaining with the school committee for the past 21 months and still donot have a new contract. While teachers have been working under the provisions of the previous contract,they are frustrated with the lack of movement on the school committee's part.

Morale is low, and teacher confidence in the school committee's ability to lead is also low. "TeachersTeachers

are fed up and ready to take a stronger standare fed up and ready to take a stronger stand," says Virginia Cramer, an Action Team representa-tive, "We work very hard on behalf of our students and the community, and we'd like a fairWe work very hard on behalf of our students and the community, and we'd like a fair

and respectable agreement.and respectable agreement."

Beginning last June, teachers have held informational demonstrations of support before school committeemeetings. Earlier in this school year teachers stopped using the school district's web space and calendar,online communication tools not required by contract, that afford students and parents easier access tohomework and other information.

"Though I am not privy to the details of the current negotiations, I helped negotiate theThough I am not privy to the details of the current negotiations, I helped negotiate the

most recent three-year contract –2006-2009—and found administration's side to be recalmost recent three-year contract –2006-2009—and found administration's side to be recal--

citrant throughout the one year process, not obliging us even in our most minute procitrant throughout the one year process, not obliging us even in our most minute pro--

posals,posals," said Stephen McClure, Action Team chairperson. "Negotiations are an eye openingNegotiations are an eye opening

experience; you get to see how the school committee truly views its staff. The lack of reexperience; you get to see how the school committee truly views its staff. The lack of re--

spect is astounding.spect is astounding."

At their early November meeting, School Committee Chair Kathy Duffett was asked what issues wereholding up an agreement. Although all parties had signed an agreement that any information in negotia-tions was to be kept in Executive Session – essentially a non-disclosure agreement – Ms. Duffett chosenot to answer the question broadly (mentioning wages and health insurance) but chose instead to go intoinappropriate detail, listing percentages and time-frames that were not correct. She also stated thatteachers were unwilling to budge in their demands.

"This statement is absolutely false,This statement is absolutely false," said Union President Kathryn Chamberlain. "The UnionThe Union

has made a number of proposals, in writing, to try to get things moving toward an agreehas made a number of proposals, in writing, to try to get things moving toward an agree--

ment. Our proposals have been met with miniscule counter-offers, made verbally only,ment. Our proposals have been met with miniscule counter-offers, made verbally only,

and with a time-frame, such as 'for the duration of this bargaining session only.' We doand with a time-frame, such as 'for the duration of this bargaining session only.' We do

not see these actions or attitudes as the reflections of good-faith bargaining that thenot see these actions or attitudes as the reflections of good-faith bargaining that the

School Committee claims they are making.School Committee claims they are making."

McClure also stated that, "When Mrs. Duffett leaked out and presumably conveyed false inWhen Mrs. Duffett leaked out and presumably conveyed false in--

formation about the terms of the CFT's most recent proposals, she did so without proformation about the terms of the CFT's most recent proposals, she did so without pro--

viding the details of the school committee's own most recent salary proposal, only toviding the details of the school committee's own most recent salary proposal, only to

say that it was a 'modest increase'. Well, the modest increase they proposed all the waysay that it was a 'modest increase'. Well, the modest increase they proposed all the way

up to the final night of mediation in 2006-2007 was for 1.5%, 1.5%, and 1%. 'We have noup to the final night of mediation in 2006-2007 was for 1.5%, 1.5%, and 1%. 'We have no

more to offer,' they said. A few hours later in the evening, we sealed what constituted amore to offer,' they said. A few hours later in the evening, we sealed what constituted a

1.5%, 2.75%, 2.75% three-year deal. Somehow 4% turned into 7%--the money material1.5%, 2.75%, 2.75% three-year deal. Somehow 4% turned into 7%--the money material--

ized.ized."

"My guess is that the school committee's latest 'modest' proposal is even lower than theMy guess is that the school committee's latest 'modest' proposal is even lower than the

4% over 3 years they offered in the late stages of 2006-2007. I imagine their 'modesty'4% over 3 years they offered in the late stages of 2006-2007. I imagine their 'modesty'

ranges from 1.5% to 3% over three years--not per year mind you, and if that is the case,ranges from 1.5% to 3% over three years--not per year mind you, and if that is the case,

they should be ashamed of themselves.they should be ashamed of themselves."

Attendance at the professional development half day activities that teachers will be boycotting is also not

mandated contractually. Historically teachers have voluntarily participated in these professional develop-ment activities in return for PDPs, Professional Development Points, required by the state for teacher li-cense recertification. In Chelmsford there are currently 5 early release half days for students.

In a prior contract agreement, these days were added to the school calendar so that the district, as re-quired by the state, could provide their teachers with yearly professional development opportunities. Theteacher's union agreed to add 5 minutes onto EVERY other teaching day over the course of the schoolyear to make up for the students' lost 'time on learning minutes,' and no time was taken from studentlearning.

The district has benefited from the union's cooperative efforts to continually help improve the schools, as aresult of these professional development days. Teachers are proud of these joint efforts, but would alsolike some input into the types of activities scheduled on these days. Over the years the union has soughtto gain some input into planning the professional development activities that are scheduled on these days.They have been repeatedly denied.

On Friday December 10, teachers will not be volunteering their time toward the administration's plannedactivities, but will instead work individually or in groups towards their own professional teaching goals.

Also, on Tuesday, December 14, they will hold another demonstrational picket before the start of the nextschool committee meeting

School Committee Response to Teachers Union StatementSchool Committee Response to Teachers Union StatementA response from the committee on the union's recent press release.A response from the committee on the union's recent press release.

December 8, 2010


The Chelmsford School committee is responding to the statement from the Chelmsford Federationof Teachers dated December 7, 2010 which indicated that the teachers will not be participating inthe professional development day scheduled for Friday, December 10th 2010. We sincerely hopethat staff will take advantage of the opportunities for certified professional development hours pro-vided by the Chelmsford Public Schools .The annual calendar for the Professional Developmentprogram is prepared months in advance and done in a collaborative manner. The Program for the2010 – 2011 academic - year was presented to the School Committee on June 16th 2010 and pro-vides goals for the Elementary, Middle and High School. On Friday the High School will be workingon the NEASC accreditation, the middle schools will be working within their subject area, and Ele-mentary schools have parent conferences scheduled.

(Chelmsford Public Schools Program for Professional development can be found on the CPS web-site under school committee documents)

The School Committee would like to reiterate that there is nothing in the current ground rules of me-diation that prohibit the chairman from answering when asked. Further, Mrs. Duffett, the Chairman ofthe School Committee, spoke for the committee with the consensus of the committee, and after con-ferring with counsel. Secondly, the statement regarding their proposal; requesting a 15% salary in-crease over three years in addition to step increases was accurate, based on the ChelmsfordFederation of Teachers written Proposal dated 9/30/2010, titled: Chelmsford Federation of TeachersProposal to Chelmsford School Committee for an agreement 2010 through 2013. It is written as athree year agreement.

We are greatly appreciative of our teaching staff and thankful for all that they do for our students andour community. We will continue to work towards reaching an agreement with the Chelmsford Fed-eration of Teachers.

Union Members Urge School Committee to Settle Contract FairlyUnion Members Urge School Committee to Settle Contract FairlyThe Chelmsford Federation of Teachers has been working without a contract for almost two years.

By Krista Perry - 12/15/10


Teachers union members last night crowded the School Committeemeeting, the second one in a row, to urge them to settle their contractfairly.

Byam Teacher Marie O'Donnell told the School Committee she hastaught for 16 year and seen many changes, both positive and negative.

"I've watched the achievement bar rise, and students and teachers working to chase it,I've watched the achievement bar rise, and students and teachers working to chase it,"she said. O'Donnell said that even though the schools have a 100 percent graduation rate and great testscores, class sizes have skyrocketed and teachers are doing more with less.

"I think the children of Chelmsford are worth more than that,I think the children of Chelmsford are worth more than that," said O'Donnell. "The teachersThe teachers

in Chelmsford have worked their magic. It's only through the work of talented, dedicatedin Chelmsford have worked their magic. It's only through the work of talented, dedicated

teachers that can kids achieve time and time again with fewer resources.teachers that can kids achieve time and time again with fewer resources."

O'Donnell told the School Committee to compromise, have empathy, and fix the problem.

"In kindergarten we call it sharing. We give a little ,you give a little. It doesn't mean weIn kindergarten we call it sharing. We give a little ,you give a little. It doesn't mean we

give a lot and you give us nothing,give a lot and you give us nothing," she said. "And it's not, you have all the power so youAnd it's not, you have all the power so you

say how it's going to be. That's not negotioating, in kindergarten, we call that bullying.say how it's going to be. That's not negotioating, in kindergarten, we call that bullying."

O'Donnell, who asserted School Committee Chairwoman Kathy Duffett "lie(d) to the press" about a con-tract proposal, said the School Committee can "step up and fix the problem."

"You can make a real offer for a fair contract. You can meet the union with a true comproYou can make a real offer for a fair contract. You can meet the union with a true compro--

mise,mise," she said.

Parent Jane McCarthy said she has three kids in the school system and is concerned about the wayteachers are being treated.

"We chose to buy our home in Chelmsford because of the reputation of the superiorWe chose to buy our home in Chelmsford because of the reputation of the superior

school system ... Chelmsford has not let us down,school system ... Chelmsford has not let us down," she said. "Our kids have had great ...Our kids have had great ...

dedicated teachers. We're very satisfied with the education, that is a credit to you, thededicated teachers. We're very satisfied with the education, that is a credit to you, the

School Committee. But we all know ... the majority of the credit must be given to the wonSchool Committee. But we all know ... the majority of the credit must be given to the won--

derful teachers.derful teachers."

McCarthy said a bad economic condition "cannot be used as an excuse.cannot be used as an excuse."

"Every bridge has its breaking point. I do not think we can ask teachers for financial sacEvery bridge has its breaking point. I do not think we can ask teachers for financial sac--

rifices any longer,rifices any longer," she said. "Lets show everyone ChelmsfordLets show everyone Chelmsford

is still committed to proving a superior school system to theiris still committed to proving a superior school system to their

children.children."

"There has been no misrepresentation to the media,There has been no misrepresentation to the media," said Duffett.

Teachers union members crowded theSchool Committee conference room.Photo Credit Krista Perry

ASK THE SUPERASK THE SUPER

In-Town Report: In-Town Report: Was the position of superintendentWas the position of superintendent

something that you strived for (especially in yoursomething that you strived for (especially in your

home town)?home town)?

Frank Tiano: Not initially. When I first got into teaching 21years ago (in Nashua, NH), I was not thinking administration. Iwas focused on being the best 5th grade teacher that I could be.As the years progressed, I frequently found myself in leadershiproles and decided a move into administration not only fit my skill set, but also allowed me tohelp a greater number of students and families at one time. As I moved up the ranks, so tospeak (Assistant Principal, Elementary Principal, Middle School Principal, and Assistant Su-perintendent), it became clear to me that I would be a Superintendent. Though assuming thisrole has happened much quicker than I anticipated, I am thrilled to have it happen here inChelmsford. I have lived here with my wife since 1995. My two children were born here andwill graduate some day from Chelmsford High and I have worked here since 2000. This hasbecome our home and the opportunity to help shape its educational future is quite an honor.

ITR: ITR: What prepared you to become superintendent?What prepared you to become superintendent?

F T: There are many experiences I can point to that have prepared me for the role of the Su-perintendent. Being a classroom teacher is an invaluable experience as I know what it’s liketo have 29 students in a classroom with a variety of different needs and learning styles. It’s anincredibly difficult job and one in which I can identify. I’ve done recess duty and bus duty. I’vecorrected papers until the middle of the night and I’ve had parent conferences go awry. Being a building administrator at two levels has also helped to prepare me for this role. As aprincipal, you are the CEO of your school and you assume responsibility for sometimes over athousand people. Every action and interaction of the staff, students and parents you own.You become intimately involved in helping students and families as well as providing for thepersonal needs of your staff. You are given a chance to grow as a manager (plant operations,personnel, scheduling, etc) as well as a leader, instructional and otherwise. As the Assistant Superintendent, I was fortunate to have as part of my responsibilities being incharge of Human Resources. We are a service industry and the majority of district is em-ployee based. With over 700 employees, I quickly became familiar with many areas person-nel including the interpretation of several contracts. Being in Human resources I had theopportunity to help many people. Oftentimes in that office, we work with folks when they aremost vulnerable. Whether, they are just entering our district or retiring, or they or a familymember has a significance illness or situation, being able to understand the applicable con-tract language and laws to help them to the best of our ability was a satisfying and quite alearning experience. Being Assistant Superintendent also afforded me the opportunity to seefirsthand what the role of Superintendent entails. I worked very closely with the previous su-perintendent in all facets of the job. That alone has made the transition this past fall quitesmooth (at least from my perspective!)

Lastly, earning my doctorate in School Leadership greatly prepared me for this role. The ex-perience and training I gained in educational research, writing, and problem solving hasproved to be tools that I rely on daily. The sacrifice and perseverance needed for such an in-

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dividual endeavor has sharpened my ability to focus on long term problems and solutions. Theopportunity to work at the doctoral level with same minded peers and university faculty aroundeducational leadership was incredible.

ITR: ITR: What do you think is your best asset that you bring to your new posiWhat do you think is your best asset that you bring to your new posi--

tion?tion?

F T: If I had to pick one, I would say it is my commitment. I have the experience, the educa-tion, town background and work ethic to be successful in this position. However, I believe it ismy commitment to the students, families and staff of this town that drives me to harness all ofthose attributes in way that I maximize all of them.

ITR: ITR: What do you look forward to the most for the school system in 2011?What do you look forward to the most for the school system in 2011?

F T: I am really excited by our district’s commitment to Response to Intervention models. Ourteachers and curriculum and building leaders have been diligently revamping our approach tostudents who are not making effective progress. We are collecting data on student learning ina more comprehensive and systematic way to earlier identify student difficulties and thereforeprovide more varied interventions earlier than we have before. The continuous improvementswe make in this area based on current research greatly excites me.

ITR: What do you fear the most for the school system in 2011?What do you fear the most for the school system in 2011?

F T: I have the same concerns as every other Superintendent across the Commonwealth has,and that is Fiscal year 2012. In 2012 our Federal Stimulus money disappears. Without it, wewould have faced devastating cuts last year on top of the cuts we have been making for thelast several years. The state has a reportedly $2 billion deficit and reports are that we couldbe facing a 5-10 % cut in local aid. Therefore, I am concerned about our ability to provide thesame level of educational options that the families in our town have come to expect and de-serve.

ITR:ITR: What is your New Year's wish for the town of Chelmsford?What is your New Year's wish for the town of Chelmsford?

F T: I wish that Chelmsford weathers this prolonged financial storm and continues to thrive asa destination community for families looking for a warm, supportive and caring town in whichto live and raise their children.

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School Committee OKs new contractBy Rita Savard, [email protected]

12/16/2010

www.lowellsun.comwww.lowellsun.com

CHELMSFORD -- The School Committee swiftly inked two three-year contract agreements with district administratorsand a new superintendent, but negotiations with the teachers' union remain at a standstill.

The new contracts were ratified during Tuesday night's meeting at the School Administration Offices, where frustratedteachers held signs outside calling for a fair contract.

For 13 administrators who agreed to forego raises in a one-year agreement for 2009-2010, the new contract establishesa 1 percent increase over each of the three years and adds a new top step for three administrators.

Administrators, including high-school deans, assistant principals and department directors, are paid according to asalary grid with six steps. A new administrator, for example, will start at Step 1 and go up an additional step each year.The new contract includes a Step 7, 1.23 percent more than Step 6.

The new grid means:

* The top-paid administrator, director of special education, is now paid from $96,937 to $102,322. That range will in-crease to $99,874 to $106,719 in the final year of the contract, the 2012-2013 school year.

* Pay for the lowest-paid administrators -- assistant principals, special-education coordinator, athletic director and guid-ance director -- is now $85,089 to $90,474. That will increase to $87,667 to $94,362 by the end of the deal.

The added step, said School Committee Chairwoman Kathy Duffett, is a cost-of-living raise, stressing that administratorsagreed to take no raises last year. Negotiations with the administrators' bargaining unit took one week with two sessions.

"We thanked the teams on both sides for working professionally, decisively and collaboratively,We thanked the teams on both sides for working professionally, decisively and collaboratively,

reaching an agreement that benefits our community, and our school district,reaching an agreement that benefits our community, and our school district," Duffett said.

Former Assistant Superintendent Frank Tiano also accepted a three-year contract as superintendent Tuesday night witha starting salary of $150,000.

In determining Tiano's salary, Duffett said the School Committee looked at districts the state Department of Educationtypically compares to Chelmsford based on community and enrollment.

Comparable districts and their first-year superintendent salaries included Dracut at $152,000, Groton at $157,000,Tewksbury at $164,500 (with three years previous experience), Franklin at $155,000 and Shrewsbury at $158,500.

In his first year, Tiano is also eligible for a $2,500 merit raise. His salary remains at $150,000 in the second year, but hismerit-pay opportunity climbs to $5,000. In the contract's third year, Tiano's salary increases to $155,000, along with an-other performance bonus of $5,000.

A subcommittee of school officials will meet regularly with Tiano to measure performance goals and determine his eligi-bility for merit raises, Duffett said.

Tiano has worked in the Chelmsford public schools for 10 years, first as a principal at the Westlands Elementary Schoolfrom 2000 to 2006, and then as principal of the McCarthy Middle School from 2006 to 2009 before becoming an assis-tant superintendent.

Tiano succeeds Don Yeoman, who abruptly resigned in October. Yeomanwas paid $17,000 more than Tiano.

The School Committee, which has been negotiating with the teachers'union for more than 21 months, has still been unable to reach a compro-mise. School officials have said teachers are asking for far more than theycan afford -- a 15 percent pay increase over three years.

Representatives of the teachers' union have denied the claim, sayingthey're only asking for a fair and reasonable cost-of-living increase.

Both sides were scheduled to meet again today with a mediator.

Teachers' contract talks continueTeachers' contract talks continueBy By Monica Jimenez/staff writer

GateHouse News ServiceDec 17, 2010


A mediation session between the Chelmsford School District and the Chelmsford Federation of Teachersdidn't produce a contract Thursday, Dec. 16.

School Committee Chairman Kathy Duffet said they are no closer to an agreement.

"No progress was made,No progress was made," Duffet said. "The School Committee will continue to work diliThe School Committee will continue to work dili --

gently to achieve a contract that will be good for the School District and teachers.gently to achieve a contract that will be good for the School District and teachers."

The two parties will resume negotiations Jan. 25, 2011.


☆☆ - Edited for Broadcast?- Edited for Broadcast?Facebook ITR●12/17/10

Word on the street ;)

The last 3 School Committee meetings that dealt with teachers contracts and had the union membersin attendance are not on-line at the Chelmsford Telemedia site?

And the last meeting 12/14 was re-broadcast last night and people who were watchingthe meeting for a 2nd time noticed that the tape recording re-broadcast had been edited and theunion talk portion of the night along with the open session with the teachers had been edited out?

Conspiracy? Union Power? Or just Technical difficulties???

Isn't there something in the Open Meeting Lawabout editing a meeting?

Inquiring minds want to know

The Truth Is Out ThereThe Truth Is Out There ;)

Budgeting begins for Chelmsford boardsBy Monica Jimenez/staff writer

GateHouse News ServiceDec 16, 2010

www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/newswww.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/news

Chelmsford may have to do some tough budgeting for the next fiscal year.

Three town boards met Monday, Dec. 13 to discuss the town’s budget for Fiscal Year 2012. Mem-bers of the Board of Selectmen, School Committee and Finance Committee listened to predictedrevenues and expenses and weighed in on how to make ends meet.

Town Manager Paul Cohen said state legislators have warned him to expect up to a 10 percent de-crease in local aid and FY 2012 could be the hardest fiscal year yet. This will make it more difficultfor the town to offer its employees contracts both parties will be comfortable with, Cohen said.

It will also leave some departments in sticky situations: The Chelmsford Fire Department was givenmoney to hire three new firefighters, but after three more firefighters left, the station is once moreunderstaffed.

“It’s not that we don’t want to pay our personnel or offer services,It’s not that we don’t want to pay our personnel or offer services,” Cohen said. “The question is, how do we afford it in this climate?The question is, how do we afford it in this climate?”

Still, Cohen said, though he’s planning for the worst, he’s hoping for the best. He pointed out the10 percent cut in local aid isn’t set in stone – they will find out in January what the state proposes.He said the stimulus money Chelmsford has received, though it won’t be forthcoming in the yearahead, has left the town in a better position to tighten its belt.

Cohen also suggested the situation had a bright side.

“It’s fortunate we don’t get as much state aid,It’s fortunate we don’t get as much state aid,” he said. “Because when it gets cut back…Because when it gets cut back…”

Laughter from all three town boards concluded his sentiment. School Committee Chairman KathyDuffet responded with a lighthearted compliment – but a double-edged one for anyone in the budg-eting business.

“You are an optimist,You are an optimist,” she said.

The boards will meet again Jan. 24 with a clearer picture of what they face in the upcoming fiscalyear.


10 Worst and Strangest Crimes of 201010 Worst and Strangest Crimes of 2010A look back at the worst crimes in town since August.

By Krista Perry 12/14/10


Chelmsford PatchChelmsford Patch has been covering your town like a blanket since Aug. 25, and since thenhas been covering your town like a blanket since Aug. 25, and since then

we've covered all kinds of crime, from the horrific to the downright strange. Here are some of thewe've covered all kinds of crime, from the horrific to the downright strange. Here are some of the

worst and strangest crime incidents of 2010. Did we leave something off the list? Tell us in the comworst and strangest crime incidents of 2010. Did we leave something off the list? Tell us in the com--

ments.ments.

The bad...The bad...

Elderly driver hits two pedestrians: On Sept. 9, a pedestrian was brought to Lowell General HospiElderly driver hits two pedestrians: On Sept. 9, a pedestrian was brought to Lowell General Hospi--

tal Thursday after an 87-year-old driver allegedly hit two people as they were crossing the street.tal Thursday after an 87-year-old driver allegedly hit two people as they were crossing the street.

Elderly driver loses control, crashes into Walgreens: On Sept. 15, an elderly driver lost control ofElderly driver loses control, crashes into Walgreens: On Sept. 15, an elderly driver lost control of

his silver Audi at 4 p.m. and crashed into the side of Walgreens on Chelmsford Street. his silver Audi at 4 p.m. and crashed into the side of Walgreens on Chelmsford Street.

The driver was taken to Lowell General Hospital after the crash, officials said.The driver was taken to Lowell General Hospital after the crash, officials said.

Two men rob Triangle Variety: Police responded to the call at 148 Groton Road and found that a loneTwo men rob Triangle Variety: Police responded to the call at 148 Groton Road and found that a lone

clerk inside the store had been robbed by two men. Police said one of the men showed a handgun andclerk inside the store had been robbed by two men. Police said one of the men showed a handgun and

demanded cash from the register. Police said the clerk turned over some cash, though they did notdemanded cash from the register. Police said the clerk turned over some cash, though they did not

specify how much, to the suspects. The men ran of the store and left the area.specify how much, to the suspects. The men ran of the store and left the area.

The strange...The strange...

Man was bubblewrapping car: We still can't think of any possible explanation for this.Man was bubblewrapping car: We still can't think of any possible explanation for this.

Skunk stuck in pickle jar: We're not sure if the skunk survived this senseless attack Skunk stuck in pickle jar: We're not sure if the skunk survived this senseless attack

by the pickle jar.by the pickle jar.

Fire started by 13-year-old boy: The boy reportedly started a fire in a trash can at his school. Fire started by 13-year-old boy: The boy reportedly started a fire in a trash can at his school.

That's a normal thing for a middle-schooler to do when's angry, right?That's a normal thing for a middle-schooler to do when's angry, right?

The shocking...The shocking...

Drug dealer arrested in Kohl's: Police arrested a Pepperell man after he allegedly attempted a drugDrug dealer arrested in Kohl's: Police arrested a Pepperell man after he allegedly attempted a drug

deal inside the Kohl's department store at about 1 p.m., police said. Wayne C. DeStefano, 25, of 21deal inside the Kohl's department store at about 1 p.m., police said. Wayne C. DeStefano, 25, of 21

Pine St., Pepperell, was charged with possesion of a Class C drug (klonopin), possession of a Class BPine St., Pepperell, was charged with possesion of a Class C drug (klonopin), possession of a Class B

drug (suboxine), and conspiracy to violate drug laws, police said.drug (suboxine), and conspiracy to violate drug laws, police said.

Police looking for alleged lewd man: On Sept. 30, police were looking for a man who was allegedlyPolice looking for alleged lewd man: On Sept. 30, police were looking for a man who was allegedly

caught acting lewdly outside a dressing room in Kohl's in the Chelmsford Mall on Chelmsford Street. caught acting lewdly outside a dressing room in Kohl's in the Chelmsford Mall on Chelmsford Street.

A woman shopping in nearby the changing area heard her daughter scream, police said, and immediA woman shopping in nearby the changing area heard her daughter scream, police said, and immedi--

ately entered the changing area. Police said the woman observed the man exit the stall next to herately entered the changing area. Police said the woman observed the man exit the stall next to her

daughter's, exit the store, and drive off toward Lowell in a gray sedan. The woman's daughter redaughter's, exit the store, and drive off toward Lowell in a gray sedan. The woman's daughter re--

ported the man was acting in a strange manner inside the fitting room area, police said.ported the man was acting in a strange manner inside the fitting room area, police said.

Lowell man charged with raping Chelmsford girl: On Dec. 6, a 21-year-old Lowell man was arraignedLowell man charged with raping Chelmsford girl: On Dec. 6, a 21-year-old Lowell man was arraigned

for raping and assaulting a Chelmsford girl. Roger A. Mbony, of 66 Whipple St., Lowell, denied thosefor raping and assaulting a Chelmsford girl. Roger A. Mbony, of 66 Whipple St., Lowell, denied those

allegations in court. Officials said the alleged victim had called Mbony to hang out, and she askedallegations in court. Officials said the alleged victim had called Mbony to hang out, and she asked

him to buy her alcohol. The next thing the alleged victim remembers, officials said, was him on top ofhim to buy her alcohol. The next thing the alleged victim remembers, officials said, was him on top of

her. The alleged victim's mother came to her daughter's room and witnessed Mbony lying on top ofher. The alleged victim's mother came to her daughter's room and witnessed Mbony lying on top of

her daughter, exposed from the waist down, and rubbing her, according to the arraignment. After theher daughter, exposed from the waist down, and rubbing her, according to the arraignment. After the

alleged victim's mother found him, Mbony fled the scene, police said.alleged victim's mother found him, Mbony fled the scene, police said.

Chelmsford High School fight:A fist fight broke out at Chelmsford High School on Sept. 9 betweenChelmsford High School fight:A fist fight broke out at Chelmsford High School on Sept. 9 between

two boys, ages 15 and 17, shortly after dismissal at 2 p.m., police said. An ambulance was called totwo boys, ages 15 and 17, shortly after dismissal at 2 p.m., police said. An ambulance was called to

the scene, but neither boy was transported to the hospital, police said.the scene, but neither boy was transported to the hospital, police said.

DID YOU KNOW THERE WAS A DID YOU KNOW THERE WAS A

PARK THERE?PARK THERE?

At Corner of Westford St. and Graniteville Rd.next to Roberts Field.The Chelmsford Open Space Stewards are restoring life to a neighborhood park

Photos by Phil Stanway & Scoop

EXTRA EXTRA ExtrasExtras

Zoning Bylaw Zoning Bylaw Review CommitteeReview Committee

The Chelmsford Planning Board is seeking two citizens to serve on the Zoning Bylaw Review Com-mittee along with three Planning Board members, a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals and theCommunity Development Director. This Committee will be responsible for prioritizing, researching,drafting and presenting potential zoning bylaw amendments in accordance with the recently com-pleted 2010 Master Plan.

If interested, please complete the online Committee Application at http://www.mygovhelp.org/CHELMSFORDMA/_cs/RequestOpen.aspx?sSessionID=&rqst=13http://www.mygovhelp.org/CHELMSFORDMA/_cs/RequestOpen.aspx?sSessionID=&rqst=13

or pick up a copy of the application at the Community Development Office.

The submission deadline is January 5, 2011. On January 12, 2011, the Planning Board will inter-view applicants and make the appointments. All applicants should plan on attending the January12, 2011 Planning Board meeting.

If you have any questions or need additional information please contact Evan Belansky at 978-244-3341.

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http://www.mygovhelp.org/CHELMSFORDMA/_cs/RequestOpen.aspx?sSessionID=&rqst=13

Dear Family & Friends,

Join us for the 8th Annual NIGHT OF 1000KICKS!! Wednesday December 29th from3:00 to 5:30pm

This years receipient of donations collectedwill be Families of SpinalMuscular Atrophy (FSMA) a 501c3 non-profit organization. FSMA is veryspecial to us. We chose FSMA in lovingmemory of our daughter Rachel andon behalf of the thousands of people wholive with SMA everyday. FSMA ison the cutting edge of research to find acure.

About Spinal Muscular Atrophy:SMA is the number 1 genetic killer of children under the age of 21 in 40 peoplecarry the SMA geneSMA has no age or ethnic preferenceFor more information about SMA visit:

http://www.curesma.org/

About Rachel:About Rachel:

Rachel lived for 10 months 2 weeks and 1day. She would've reached her11th Birthday this past September.She LOVED chocolate!Her favorite movie was Telletubbies BigHug & ElmopaloozaShe loved to chew on a rubber lizardnamed Lilly.She brought thousands of people togetherin her short life.

We were very sad that she died, but we are more happy that she LIVED.She wants us to spread the word about SMA, then kick its butt!

Participants of the Night of 1000 Kicks should wear comfortable clothes...it's a good work out!

Thanks for helping us see an end to SMA!

I've attached registration form/pledge sheet for your convenience or go toour website www.alphatkd.com and click on EVENTS or you can pick one up at Alpha.

I've also attached flyers. I could certainly use the help getting theword out. Please print/post where ever you can. That would be muchappreciated.

Rachel's Team T-shirts are available for $15. Please make t-shirts checksout to Michelle Rollinson. Order deadline is December 9th.

All donation checks, please make out to FSMA.

Thanks for all your help and support!

Sincerely,Michelle and Andrew RollinsonMichelle and Andrew Rollinson

Alpha TKDA978-251-1331

http://www.curesma.org/

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

From the FARSIDE of Chelmsford ...

Merry Christmas ... from the Boys of Chelmsford

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itr december 19 2010

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