Chelmsford public meetings in 2022

Library Trustees

The Board of Trustees appointed Lesley Kimball and Vickie Turcotte as Library Co-Directors through June 30, 2023, or until a permanent director is hired. A working committee was established to prepare the job description and search process for a new director. The board also voted to close the library on the day of former Director Becky Herrmann's services.

• Approved Lesley Kimball and Vickie Turcotte as Library Co-Directors until June 30, 2023, or permanent appointment (Unanimous)
• Established working committee to prepare job description, timeline, and search process for new director
• Approved closing the library on the day of Becky Herrmann's services (Unanimous)

Age-Friendly Chelmsford Implementation Committee

The committee received progress reports from transportation, communication, and social participation domains. Members discussed upcoming public presentations, a new webpage, and a transportation focus group scheduled for January 30. The committee approved the minutes from the November 30, 2022 meeting.

• Approved 11/30/2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Agricultural Commission

The Commission voted to endorse the return of the summer farmers' market for 2023. It also approved sponsoring CPC grant proposals to bring electricity to Sunny Meadow and Wotton Street for agricultural use. Additionally, the board decided to pursue the installation of right-to-farm signs.

• Endorsed the 2023 summer farmers' market (5-0)
• Supported and sponsored CPC grant proposal for electricity at Sunny Meadow (4-0-1)
• Supported and sponsored CPC grant proposal for electricity at Wotton Street (4-0-1)
• Approved minutes for November 4, 2021 and January 20, 2022 (5-0)
• Voted to pursue right-to-farm signs for Chelmsford (5-0)

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Northern Middlesex Council of Governments will review a resolution to commit matching funds for a Lowell Regional Transit Authority transit planning contract with the US Department of Transportation. The body will also discuss the employee handbook and review financial reports.

• Resolution to commit matching funds for the Lowell Regional Transit Authority (LRTA) Transit Planning Contract
• Review of income and expense statements from 11/17/2022 to 12/19/2022
• Discussion of Employee Handbook

Clean Energy and Sustainability Committee

The committee approved the November 15th meeting minutes and scheduled future meetings for the second Monday of each month. Members agreed to allow a single home performance contractor for the MassSave grant program if a second provider cannot be found.

• Approved November 15th meeting minutes (with edits)
• Scheduled monthly meetings for the 2nd Monday of each month (Jan 9 and Feb 13)
• Agreed to proceed with one home performance contractor for MassSave grant if a second cannot be found

Select Board

The Select Board approved a five-year solid waste and recycling contract with E. L. Harvey & Sons, which increases recycling frequency to weekly. The Board also issued several business licenses and made appointments to town committees. A discussion was held regarding a capacity incident at Center Brickhouse Pizza, resulting in a license renewal but a requirement for a written corrective action plan.

• Approved five-year solid waste and recycling contract to E. L. Harvey & Sons ($2.3M first year) (5-0)
• Approved common victualler license for Euphoria Coffee, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved one-day all alcoholic beverages license for St. John’s Evangelist Church for 12/25/22 (5-0)
• Approved renewal of all alcoholic beverages license for Center Brickhouse Pizza (5-0)
• Appointed William Campbell and Elizabeth Piocos to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee (5-0)
• Re-appointed five members to the Holiday Decorating Committee (5-0)
• Appointed Maura Snow and Carissa Campbell to the CCA/Town Hall Advisory Committee (5-0)
• Approved Select Board regular meeting minutes from December 5, 2022, and joint meeting minutes from December 7, 2022 (5-0)

Fire Station Study Committee

The committee discussed response time maps from Criterion Associates and evaluated various station configuration and apparatus staffing proposals. Members reviewed the impact of staffing levels on Engine 2’s district and emergency call scenarios. No policy or funding decisions were made.

• Approved December 1, 2022 meeting minutes (6-1 abstaining)
• Scheduled next meetings for January 12, 18, and 25, 2023

Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee

The committee approved modified trail rules developed by the Multi-Community Uniformity Committee for submission to the Select Board. Members also authorized the purchase of a BFRT logo sign for the Center/Brickhouse Pocket Park.

• Approved modified BFRT trail rules as developed by the Multi-Community Uniformity Committee
• Approved $1,700.00 expenditure for BFRT Logo sign from Express Signs in Chelmsford
• Approved meeting minutes from November 17, 2022

Cultural Council

The Chelmsford Cultural Council is meeting to finalize grant appropriations for FY22. The body will also discuss marketing strategies and revised priorities for FY24, including a plan for public input.

• Final review of FY22 grant appropriations
• Review of requested reconsiderations for FY22
• Discussion of FY24 priorities and public input plan
• Discussion of FY24 marketing strategy

Library Trustees

The Board approved a request from the Recycling Committee to host a broken Christmas light collection bin through January 15. Trustees also approved the consent agenda and discussed capital project funding and staff recruitment strategies.

• Approved request to host broken Christmas light collection bin through Jan 15 (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved $100,000 estimate for retaining wall replacement project
• Denied parking lot improvement request

Planning Board

The Board voted to continue public hearings for two industrial projects to January 11, 2023. Members decided to postpone a proposed rezoning of Monmouth and McFarlin roads until the Riverneck Road proposal is finalized. The Board also scheduled a January 25 public hearing regarding ZBA-recommended zoning amendments for residential structures.

• Continued 270 Billerica Road public hearing to Jan. 11, 2023 (6-0)
• Continued 250 Apollo Drive public hearing to Jan. 11, 2023 (6-0)
• Tabled rezoning of Monmouth and McFarlin from IA to Residential until Riverneck Road hearings conclude
• Scheduled public hearing for ZBA zoning amendment proposals for Jan. 25

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Northern Middlesex Council of Governments Officers are meeting to discuss administrative updates. The session includes a review of the employee handbook and an audit review with Anstiss & Co., P.C.

• Update on Employee Handbook
• Audit review and management plan with Mary M. Linskey, CPA
• Review of draft agenda for December 21, 2022 Council Meeting

Historical Commission

The commission approved a demolition application for 264 Groton Road after reviewing the property inventory. A demolition request for 116 Riverneck Road was deferred pending a professional inventory. The board also identified five names for the 250th Anniversary project.

• Approved demolition application for 264 Groton Road
• Required professional inventory for 116 Riverneck Road demolition request
• Selected Ezekial Byam, Col. Spaulding, Willard Parker, John Dalton, and Mathius Spaulding for 250 Anniversary list
• Approved November 15, 2022 minutes as amended

Conservation Commission

The Commission issued Orders of Conditions for projects at 5 Pond Street, 28 Parlee Road, and 48 Abbott Lane. It also voted to support a public library grant project to promote indigenous history at six conservation sites. Several other hearings were continued to future dates.

• Approved Public Library proposal for indigenous awareness at six reservation sites (6-0)
• Issued Standard Order of Conditions for 5 Pond St. with water level and replication conditions (6-0)
• Issued Standard Order of Conditions for 28 Parlee Rd. (6-0)
• Issued Standard Order of Conditions for 48 Abbott Lane subject to DEP file number (5-0)
• Issued Certificates of Compliance for 11 School St. (6-0)
• Continued hearing for 120 Gorham St. to January 10, 2023 (6-0)
• Continued hearing for 191, 195, 199, 201 Riverneck Road to January 10, 2023 (6-0)
• Continued hearings for 270 Billerica Rd. and 1-104 Turnpike Rd. (6-0)

Select Board

The Select Board, Finance Committee, School Committee, and Nashoba Valley Tech District met to review current budget statuses and FY24 projections. The joint bodies unanimously agreed to a level-service operating budget approach for the upcoming fiscal year.

• Approved level-service operating budget approach for FY24 (15-0)

TREE Committee

The committee discussed the Chelmsford Center Common Tree Plan, including species selection criteria and outreach to town departments. Progress was reported on the Tree Manual diagrams and specifications. The election of officers was deferred.

• Approved November 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred election of officers

Capital Planning Committee

The committee unanimously approved the FY2024 Capital Improvement Plan totaling $4,162,359 for municipal bonds. The plan recommends funding 17 projects, including school boiler replacements, DPW road improvements, and town office elevator replacement.

• Approved FY2024 Capital Improvement Plan for $4,162,359 (6-0)
• Approved $160,000 for Town Clerk fire suppression upgrades
• Approved $480,000 for Town Offices elevator replacement
• Approved $641,355 for CHS kitchen upgrade
• Approved $400,000 for DPW road improvements
• Approved $350,000 for DPW sidewalk construction
• Approved November 30, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved December 1, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)

Select Board

The Select Board and other town boards discussed a proposed policy to allow non-residential property owners to transfer sewer flow credits for economic development. Town Manager Cohen noted majority support for the transfer policy and unanimous support for an infiltration/inflow (I/I) pilot program and low-flow fixture incentives.

• Directed Town Manager to finalize the sewer capacity credit transfer policy with DPW
• Supported the implementation of an infiltration/inflow (I/I) pilot program to remove illegal sump pumps
• Supported providing incentives for low-flow fixtures to free up sewer capacity
• Adjourned meeting at 8:23PM (5-0)

Planning Board

The Select Board, Planning Board, and Board of Health discussed a proposed policy to allow non-residential property owners to transfer sewer flow credits for economic development. Town Manager Cohen noted majority support for the transfer policy and unanimous support for an infiltration/inflow (I/I) pilot program and low-flow fixture incentives. The Town Manager will work with the DPW and town engineer to finalize the plan.

• Directed Town Manager to finalize the sewer capacity credit transfer policy
• Supported the implementation of an infiltration/inflow (I/I) pilot program to remove illegal sump pumps
• Supported providing incentives for low-flow fixtures to increase sewer capacity
• Adjourned meeting at 8:23PM (5-0)

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the October 11 meeting and discussed planning for Black History Month and Juneteenth. Members expressed a collective opposition to a resident's request to change the name of Nabnasset Street.

• Approved October 11, 2022 meeting minutes
• Opposed changing the name of Nabnasset Street (7-0)

Clean Energy and Sustainability Committee

The committee approved the November 1st meeting minutes. Members discussed potential energy aggregation partnerships with Westford and net-zero planning assistance from NMCOG. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved November 1st meeting minutes (with edits)

Board of Health

The Board of Health granted a variance for an exterior grease trap at RK Mart. The board also accepted incoming and outgoing correspondence and discussed a draft sewer capacity credit transfer policy.

• Approved variance for exterior grease trap at RK Mart/7 Acton Rd Convenience Store (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 7, 2022 (unanimous)
• Accepted incoming correspondence (unanimous)
• Accepted outgoing correspondence (unanimous)
• Accepted old business regarding Draft Sewer Capacity Credit Transfer Policy (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board extended the moratorium on issuing a new off-premises alcoholic beverage package store license until March 31, 2023. The Board also approved most 2023 license renewals but excluded Center Brickhouse Pizza pending a meeting with management. Additionally, the Board agreed to enter mediation with the Police Superior Officers Union.

• Extended moratorium on additional package store license to March 31, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved 2023 license renewals except for Center Brickhouse Pizza, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved November 21, 2022 regular meeting minutes (5-0)
• Agreed to accept Department of Labor Relations offer for mediation with Police Superior Officers Union
• Approved November 7, 2022 Executive Session Minutes Segments 1, 2.1, 2.2, and 2.3
• Approved November 21, 2022 Executive Session Minutes Segments 1, 2, 3, and 4

North Chelmsford Water District Minutes are found at www.northchelmsfordwater.com

The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to discuss water quality and infrastructure funding. Key agenda items include contamination at a DPW property and a grant for Groton Road.

• PFAS contamination at 54 Richardson Road on the DPW Property
• Groton Road Massworks Grant

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission approved roof modifications and a letter of support for a project at 18-20 Chelmsford St. Other agenda items regarding 21 Chelmsford Street and 5 Billerica Road were not addressed due to applicant absence. The commission also approved the meeting minutes from November 7, 2022.

• Approved roof modifications and letter of support for 18-20 Chelmsford St. (4-0)
• Approved November 7, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Tabled discussion on 17 North Rd. rooftop equipment screening

Military Community Covenant

The Military Community Covenant is meeting to approve prior minutes, review 2022 activities, and set goals for the next meeting. The agenda includes a recap of a Veterans Rake-out event and member updates.

• Approve October 28 meeting minutes
• Veterans Rake-out recap
• 2022 Review
• Review next meeting goals

The task force approved the minutes from the October 28 meeting. Members reviewed past activities, including the Veterans Rake-out and 9/11 Remembrance ceremony, and discussed resuming the Volunteer Fair and Armed Forces Day cookout next year.

• Approved October 28 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:50PM (6-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board approved three special permits for a residential addition, a massage therapy business, and a cell tower modification. Several other requests for residential apartments and business use were continued to future meetings.

• Approved special permit for addition at 12 Sylvan Avenue (5-0)
• Approved special permit for massage therapy business at 23 Chelmsford Street (5-0)
• Approved special permit modification for antennas at 53 Parkhurst Road (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 11 Rainbow Avenue to January 5, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 16 Freeman Road to January 5, 2023 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 150-152 Dalton Road to January 5, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved November 3, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Fire Station Study Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the November 22, 2022 meeting. Members discussed a four-apparatus staffing recommendation, concurrent call response data, and a presentation for the Selectboard. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved November 22, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)

Capital Planning Committee

The committee reviewed various capital requests for DPW, town facilities, and school infrastructure. No final funding decisions were made; members will submit prioritization worksheets by December 6, 2022, for discussion at the next meeting.

• Tabled funding decisions pending member prioritization worksheets
• Identified $224,848.00 in recaptured funds to offset borrowing

LRTA

The meeting agenda consists of procedural boilerplate and routine reports. The board will review the warrant and receive monthly reports from the Administrator, Finance Director, and Facility Director.

• Acceptance of October 27, 2022 meeting minutes
• Review of the warrant and invoices
• Administrator's Report
• Finance Director's Monthly Report
• Facility Director's Monthly Report

Recycling Committee

The committee approved the November 2022 meeting minutes and reviewed October tonnage totals. A new three-year contract with UTEC was established, maintaining current resident costs while the town pays $10 per mattress. Members also coordinated upcoming holiday light collection efforts.

• Approved November 3, 2022 meeting minutes
• Established new three-year mattress recycling contract with UTEC ($10 per mattress town cost)

Capital Planning Committee

The committee heard presentations on sustainability goals and reviewed capital requests from municipal technology, the town clerk, the council on aging, the library, and the fire department. No votes were taken on the funding requests; the committee approved minutes from two 2021 meetings.

• Approved meeting minutes of December 2, 2021 (4-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved meeting minutes of December 9, 2021 (4-0, 2 abstentions)

Age-Friendly Chelmsford Implementation Committee

The committee received progress reports from various domains regarding job fairs, transportation recruitment, and hoarding disorder training. Members discussed the status of Master Plan recommendations and upcoming community outreach efforts. The committee unanimously approved the October 26, 2022, meeting minutes with edits.

• Approved 10/26/2022 meeting minutes with edits (unanimous)

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Northern Middlesex Metropolitan Planning Organization is meeting to discuss transportation projects and performance reporting. The body will consider an action item to endorse a specific project amendment for the 2023-2027 Transportation Improvement Program.

• Endorsement of Gallagher Terminal Access Project in Lowell (FFY 2023-2027 TIP Amendment 1)
• LRTA Transit Asset Management Plan updated performance targets
• Envision 2050 updates
• NMMPO Title VI Plan reporting updates
• CMAQ Performance Plan reporting

Fire Station Study Committee

The committee approved the November 15, 2022, meeting minutes. Members discussed apparatus staffing levels, emergency call data, and draft slides for an upcoming Selectboard update.

• Approved November 15, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0-1)
• Scheduled next meetings for December 1 and December 15, 2022

Conservation Commission

The Commission issued a Certificate of Compliance for a condominium project at 248 Princeton Street. Several other project hearings were continued to December 13, 2022, pending revised plans or DEP file numbers.

• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 248 Princeton Street (6-0)
• Continued hearing for 5 Pond Street to December 13, 2022 (6-0)
• Continued hearing for 48 Abbott Lane to December 13, 2022 (6-0)
• Continued hearing for 120 Gorham Street to December 13, 2022 (6-0)
• Continued hearing for 270 Billerica Road to December 13, 2022 (6-0)

Select Board

The Select Board set the residential tax rate and approved a 10% small commercial tax exemption. The board also granted a used vehicle dealer license and filled several committee vacancies.

• Adopted residential tax rate of .96275 (3-2)
• Adopted 10% small commercial tax exemption (5-0)
• Denied residential tax exemption (5-0)
• Denied open space discount (5-0)
• Approved Class II auto dealer license for Drum Hill Autos at 123 Princeton St (5-0)
• Appointed Clare Jeannotte to Nashoba Valley Technical District School Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Pat Wojtas as alternate to Nashoba Valley Technical District School Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Jack Bergstrom and James Walton to Clean Energy and Sustainability Committee (5-0)

Cultural Council

The Chelmsford Cultural Council is meeting to establish priorities and evaluate grant proposals for fiscal year 2023. The body will vote on these proposals and determine the timeline for notifying applicants.

• Statement of Council Priorities for FY23
• Evaluation and voting on FY23 grant proposals

The Council reviewed 32 grant applications for $19,942 in state funding. Members voted to decline funding for eight applicants because their organizations or events are not based in Chelmsford.

• Denied funding for Dracut Performing Arts Series (Unanimous)
• Denied funding for Kammerwerke, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Denied funding for Diane McGary (Unanimous)
• Denied funding for Nashoba Valley Chorale (Unanimous)
• Denied funding for Yin Peet, Sevenars Concerts, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Denied funding for Special Needs Advocacy Network, Inc. (Unanimous)
• Denied funding for The Musary (Unanimous)
• Denied funding for Virginia Thurston Healing Garden, Inc. (Unanimous)

Town Clerk / Board of Registrars

The Board of Registrars witnessed the counting of three Federal Write-in Absentee Ballots and 56 postmarked ballots. Election results were certified pending the completion of the mail-in ballot count. The board discussed general election logistics and recommended adding large precinct maps to polling location entrances.

• Certified election results pending completion of mail-in ballot counting
• Processed 3 Federal Write-in Absentee Ballots and 56 postmarked ballots

Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee

The committee approved the amended minutes from the October 27, 2022 meeting. Members discussed the BFRT logo sign, railroad memorabilia, and e-bike legislation, but no votes were taken on these items.

• Approved October 27, 2022 meeting minutes as amended

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee approved funding recommendations for a school playground and affordable housing. It also approved reimbursement for legal fees related to a land conservation restriction.

• Recommended $82,000 for Center Elementary School ground restoration (8-0)
• Approved $3,112.00 reimbursement to Chelmsford Land Conservation Trust for Warren-Pohl Reservation legal fees (8-0)
• Recommended modified appropriation of $600,000 for UMass West Housing Development Project affordable housing (9-0)
• Approved January 19, 2022 meeting minutes as amended (8-1-0)

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Northern Middlesex Council of Governments is meeting to review financial reports and a mid-year budget update. The body will also discuss an amendment to the Draft FFY 2023-2027 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and updates to the employee handbook.

• Mid-Year Budget Update and Amendment
• Draft FFY 2023-2027 TIP Amendment 1
• Employee Handbook update
• Financial Report and Warrant for 10/19/2022-11/15/2022

Historical Commission

The commission approved the minutes from October 11, 2022. A demolition request for 264 Groton Road was deferred to the December meeting pending a professional inventory. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved October 11, 2022 minutes
• Deferred demolition request for 264 Groton Road to December meeting

Clean Energy and Sustainability Committee

The committee approved the October 18th meeting minutes. Members discussed strategies to ensure the Specialized Stretch Code and Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program are included on the Spring Town Meeting agenda. No other substantive votes were recorded.

• Approved October 18th meeting minutes (with edits)

Library Trustees

The Board of Trustees approved the consent agenda and appointed Josh Wimble, Michelle Fearon, and Wendy Segal to the Associate Board. Trustees discussed a $450,000 capital budget request for a retaining wall and parking lot paving for FY2024.

• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Selected Josh Wimble, Michelle Fearon, and Wendy Segal for the Associate Board

Fire Station Study Committee

The committee discussed updated analysis from Criterion and determined to wait for an IAFF report before pursuing land acquisition for Scenario 3. Members also reviewed outlines for future recommendations and updates to the Select Board.

• Approved meeting minutes from November 9, 2022 (6-0)

TREE Committee

The Committee approved the September 2021 meeting minutes. Members discussed finalizing a draft tree plan for the Chelmsford Center Common and progress on a Tree Manual.

• Approved September 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred election of officers pending full quorum

Vinal Square Strategic Action Plan Committee

The committee received updates on North Common improvements, Vamey Park, and local business vacancies. No new policy decisions were made, though a Resident Advisory Committee was proposed to address traffic issues.

• Approved September 21, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Center Village Master Plan Committee

The committee discussed the installation of a kiosk near the Brickhouse parking lot and the development of a brookwalk and pocket park. Updates were provided on the Grist Mill connection and the status of the sewer bank policy. No new policy decisions were made during the meeting.

• Approved August 11, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved April 14, 2022 minutes (3-0)

Council on Aging Board

The Board approved the 2023 goals as presented. The meeting also included reports on the installation of media equipment and updates on state and federal funding for home energy and economic spending.

• Approved September COA Board meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October Joint Meeting with the Friends Board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 goals as presented (unanimous)

Fire Station Study Committee

The committee approved the minutes from October 25, 2022. Members decided to postpone the discussion of updated analysis from Criterion Associates until the next meeting due to member absences.

• Approved October 25, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Deferred discussion of updated Criterion Associates analysis

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a minor site plan modification to install electric vehicle charging stations. Two other public hearings regarding industrial developments were continued to December 14, 2022.

• Approved minor site plan modification for three four-vehicle EV charging stations at 288 Chelmsford Street (7-0)
• Continued public hearing for 270 Billerica Road industrial warehouse project to Dec. 14, 2022 (7-0)
• Continued public hearing for 250 Apollo Drive building addition to Dec. 14, 2022 (7-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health unanimously approved the October 4, 2022, meeting minutes and accepted all incoming and outgoing correspondence. The board discussed several property-specific health and sanitation matters, including a septic system requirement for 250 Apollo Drive.

• Approved October 4, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved incoming correspondence (unanimous)
• Approved outgoing correspondence (unanimous)
• Accepted old business regarding Sewer Bank Proposal (unanimous)
• Accepted new business regarding septic system requirement at 250 Apollo Drive (unanimous)
• Accepted monthly reports on Hoarding Task force and driver training (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board approved an all-alcoholic beverages license for Pressed Café and a $98,000 contract for Varney Park playground equipment. The Board also established Charles Way as a public way and dissolved the Economic Development Commission in favor of ad hoc advisory committees.

• Approved all alcoholic beverages restaurant license for Pressed Café LLC (5-0)
• Approved roadside vendor license for Chelmsford Youth Baseball (5-0)
• Approved roadside vendor license for Almo’s Flower and Garden Center Inc. (5-0)
• Adopted order of taking for Charles Way as a public way (5-0)
• Approved $98,000 bid award to NELM Corporation for Varney Park playground equipment (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Roberta Witts to Cultural Council (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Harrison Mayotte to Public Records Advisory Committee (5-0)
• Continued tax classification public hearing to November 21st (5-0)

Cultural Council

The Chelmsford Cultural Council is holding an open meeting for FY23 grant applicants to give brief presentations and answer questions. No voting on applications will occur during this meeting.

• Grant presentations for FY23 funding

The Cultural Council outlined the evaluation criteria for distributing $19,400 in FY23 grant funding. Representatives from several grant applicants provided public input regarding their projects. No formal funding decisions were recorded.

North Chelmsford Water District Minutes are found at www.northchelmsfordwater.com

The Board of Water Commissioners will review the 2021-2022 financial audit and discuss PFAS contamination at 54 Richardson Road. The board will also address a Massworks grant for Groton Road and a PFAS reimbursement check.

• Review of 2021-2022 Financial Audit with Powers & Sullivan, LLC
• Discussion of PFAS contamination at 54 Richardson Road
• Discussion of Groton Road Massworks Grant
• Discussion of PFAS Reimbursement Check
• Executive session to discuss interviews for the Water Superintendent position

Historic District Commission

The Commission approved the meeting minutes from September 12 and October 4, 2022. Members discussed ongoing property renovations and signage issues, but no new permits or design changes were decided.

• Approved September 12, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved October 4, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Decided the application process for lessees of non-owned properties will not change

Select Board

The Select Board decided to suspend discussions regarding a potential disciplinary hearing for Town Manager Paul Cohen. The Board will resume the matter once the decision from a second hearing regarding a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is released.

• Approved motion to suspend discussion on disciplinary hearing until the MOU hearing decision is released (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board approved a special permit for a garage expansion at 23 Drexel Drive. Two other variance requests were continued to December 1, 2022, and the Board discussed future conditions for accessory structure variances.

• Approved special permit for garage addition at 23 Drexel Drive (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 12 Sylvan Avenue variance to December 1, 2022 (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 16 Freeman Road variance to December 1, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved October 6, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Recycling Committee

The committee approved the October 2022 meeting minutes and finalized logistics for Zero Waste Day on November 5. Members reviewed September 2022 tonnage totals and discussed the progress of the composting program at Chelmsford High School.

• Approved October 2022 meeting minutes
• Confirmed Zero Waste Day for November 5 at McCarthy Middle School

Clean Energy and Sustainability Committee

The committee discussed a nearly complete report from Weston & Sampson and planned a presentation for the Planning Board on November 30. Members discussed strategies for adopting the Specialized Stretch Code at the Spring Town Meeting and coordinating outreach for the MassSave grant.

• Scheduled Planning Board meeting for 11/30
• Scheduled future meetings for November 15, December 6, and December 20
• Action Item: Peter and Bern to coordinate marketing work with MassSave grant
• Action Item: Members to add ideas to the funding ideas spreadsheet for National Grid funds
• Action Item: Capture Conservation Commission feedback on report in the shared folder
• Action Item: Bern to add report update process to a future agenda

CHOICE, Inc. - minutes are found at www.chelmsfordha.com

The board is meeting to review and approve resolutions concerning the conversion of the Village at Crystal Lake, also known as North Village. The meeting also includes a review of the June 21, 2022, meeting minutes.

• Resolutions regarding conversion of Village at Crystal Lake (North Village)

Military Community Covenant

The Military Community Covenant is meeting to plan veterans' services and review its mission. The group will discuss outreach opportunities and the distribution of gift cards.

• Veterans Rake-out plans
• Veterans visitation planning
• Gift cards for VSO distribution
• Review of policies and mission

The Military Community Covenant Task Force approved the purchase of 30 gift cards for local veterans in need. The group also scheduled a veteran's yard clean-up and declined to take a position on a fire department union item.

• Approved 30 Market Basket gift cards at $50 each for the Veterans Agent (5-0)
• Approved minutes from September 16, 2022 meeting (5-0)
• Set veteran yard clean-up for November 27 at 1PM (backup date December 4)
• Decided to delay nursing home visitations until after the holidays
• Determined taking a position on a fire department union item is beyond the Task Force charter

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Northern Middlesex Council of Governments Officers will meet to receive updates on legal counsel, human resources, and the organization's budget and audit. The body will also review the draft agenda for the November 16, 2022 Council Meeting.

• Update on engaging legal counsel
• Update on human resources
• Update on NMCOG contracts, budget, finances, and audit
• Review of draft agenda for November 16, 2022 Council Meeting

LRTA

The Lowell Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will meet to review the warrant and monthly reports from the Administrator, Finance Director, and Facility Director. The board will also discuss the Transit Asset Management Plan.

• Review of the warrant and invoices
• Discussion of the Transit Asset Management Plan

Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee

The committee updated proposed trail rules to include courtesy language and a ban on strobe lights. A cleanup of the Village Square section of the BFRT was deferred to spring. The committee also reviewed new state e-bike legislation effective November 8, 2022.

• Approved September 15, 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved September 29, 2022 meeting minutes
• Deferred Village Square BFRT cleanup to spring
• Added 'Be Courteous to Others' and a strobe light ban to proposed BFRT trail rules

Age-Friendly Chelmsford Implementation Committee

The committee received a Community Health Needs Assessment from the Greater Lowell Health Alliance and discussed the impact of the data on future goals. Members coordinated community outreach via the CTM Town Manager’s Table show and reviewed progress reports from various domains.

• Approved minutes of August 31, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Board approved a minor modification for a mixed-use building at 47 Chelmsford Street to allow two residential units instead of one. Two land subdivision plans (ANRs) were endorsed. The Board also held a work session regarding land use and zoning conflicts.

• Approved minor modification for 47 Chelmsford Street to allow two residential units and reduce parking from three to two spaces (6-0)
• Endorsed ANR #681 for 192 Main Street (6-0)
• Endorsed ANR #682 for 249 Groton Road (6-0)
• Approved September 14, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved September 28, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0-1)
• Continued 270 Billerica Road public hearing to November 9, 2022 (6-0)

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Northern Middlesex Metropolitan Planning Organization is meeting to review transportation project statuses and plan updates. The body will consider an amendment to the 2023-2027 Transportation Improvement Program.

• FFY 2023-2027 TIP Amendment 1 regarding the Gallagher Terminal Access Project in Lowell
• Status report on Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) projects under design and construction
• Envision 2050 updates
• NMMPO Title VI Plan reporting updates

Fire Station Study Committee

The committee reviewed second due response time data from Criterion Associates and discussed a draft recommendation outline. Members identified future focus areas including staffing levels, hiring, implementation timelines, and financial investment.

• Approved meeting minutes from October 18, 2022

Conservation Commission

The Commission approved a Certificate of Compliance for a garage and patio project at 24 Fenwick Road. Several regulatory hearings for projects at 5 Pond Street, 120 Gorham Street, and 270 Billerica Road were continued to November 22, 2022.

• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 24 Fenwick Road garage and patio (7-0)
• Continued hearing for 5 Pond Street boat ramp extension to Nov 22 (7-0)
• Continued hearing for 120 Gorham Street after-the-fact filing to Nov 22 (7-0)
• Continued hearing for 270 Billerica Road to Nov 22 (7-0)
• Approved September 27, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved October 11, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Select Board

The Select Board held a public hearing on a proposed sewer bank policy but took no vote, instead scheduling a further working discussion with multiple town boards and an engineering firm. The board approved two special licenses for wine sales at Maxwell's Winter Farmers Market and continued a public hearing on an all-alcoholic beverages license for Pressed Café to November 7. Reports were received on the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail signage, a draft climate action plan, traffic safety, business development, and ARPA projects.

• Continued public hearing for Pressed Café LLC all-alcoholic beverages license to November 7, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved special license for Aaronap Cellars LLC to sell wine at Maxwell's Winter Farmers Market (5-0)
• Approved special license for House Bear Brewing LLC to sell wine at Maxwell's Winter Farmers Market (5-0)
• Approved Select Board meeting minutes of September 29, 2022, as amended (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:34 PM (5-0)

Cemetery Commission

The Chelmsford Cemetery Commission met on October 24, 2022, and approved the minutes from the May 11, 2022 meeting. They reviewed the third-quarter report for the Cemetery Perpetual Care Fund and discussed a potential pet cemetery, but noted that state law (MGL Chapter 114) only allows interment of human remains, and no suitable town land exists. The commission also received updates on tree planting, drainage work, and a planned restoration project at Forefathers Burial Ground.

• Approved minutes of May 11, 2022 meeting (moved by Hardy, seconded by Sousa)
• Discussed but no action taken on pet cemetery; state law prohibits pet burials in existing cemeteries and no town land is viable
• Noted completion of tree planting, hydroseeding, and drainage work at Pine Ridge and Fairview cemeteries
• Superintendent to meet with Epoch Preservation for Forefathers Burial Ground restoration estimate; will coordinate with Historical Commission and Community Preservation Committee
• West Chelmsford Cemetery fence replacement project to be brought before Historical Commission and CPC in January 2023

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council will discuss updates for the FY22 and FY23 grant cycles. Members will also review grant criteria based on town policy and discuss a 2023 photography contest.

• Review of FY22 grant cycle
• Review of FY23 grant cycle
• Revision of grant criteria based on town policy
• Discussion of 2023 photography contest
• Membership drive update

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Northern Middlesex Council of Governments will meet to review financial reports and staffing updates. The body is scheduled to vote on the endorsement of the Phase II Report for the Greater Lowell Economic Resiliency and Recovery Plan.

• Vote of endorsement for Greater Lowell Economic Resiliency and Recovery Plan (Phase II Report)
• Review of income and expense statements from 09/20/2022 to 10/19/2022
• Staffing update

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing and voting on recommendations for a Special Town Meeting Warrant. The body is also discussing the reconsideration of two Fall Town Meeting Warrant articles regarding free cash transfers.

• Article 1: Charles Way Acceptance, Easements, Repair, Agreements
• Article 2: 255 Princeton Street Sewer Easement Extinguishment
• Article 14: Transfer Free Cash to Reduce the FY23 Property Tax Levy
• Article 15: Transfer Free Cash to General Stabilization Fund

North Chelmsford Water District Minutes are found at www.northchelmsfordwater.com

The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to review invoices and a customer abatement request. The board will discuss PFAS contamination at 54 Richardson Road and the Groton Road Massworks Grant.

• PFAS contamination at 54 Richardson Road on the DPW Property
• Groton Road Massworks Grant
• Abatement request for customer at 3 Poultens Green Way
• Approval of legal and engineering invoices

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Northern Middlesex Metropolitan Planning Organization is meeting to review the status of Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) projects. The body will discuss the Envision 2050 Regional Transportation Plan and safety reports for the region.

• Status report on Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) projects under design and construction
• Envision 2050 – The Northern Middlesex Regional Transportation Plan
• Northern Middlesex Annual Safety Report
• TIP Review Study on safety impacts of funded projects in Lowell and Tewksbury

Dog Park Advisory Committee

The committee is meeting to nominate leadership for FY 2023 and review the status of park projects. Members will discuss park conditions and whether to remove or replace plastic lawn chairs.

• Nomination of Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk for FY 2023
• Review of park conditions and project planning
• Discussion on replacement or removal of plastic lawn chairs
• CDA maintenance update and concerns

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and discuss several warrant articles, including school personnel and zoning definitions. The body will also consider easement and street acceptance requests. The meeting concludes with vote recommendations on these articles.

• Article 10: School Department Professional Support Personnel
• Article 20: Exempting Deputy Fire Chief From Civil Service
• Articles 21, 22, and 23: Zoning Bylaw Amendments regarding Warehouse and Distribution Center definitions
• Articles 24 and 25: Brook Walk and Charles Way Easements
• Article 26: Street Acceptance for Nabnasset Drive

LRTA

The Lowell Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will meet to review administrative and financial reports. The board is scheduled to discuss Title VI Certification under new business.

• Title VI Certification
• Review of warrants and invoices
• Administrator's Report
• Finance Director's Monthly Report
• Facility Director's Monthly Report

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review and discuss warrants for both a Special Town Meeting and the 2022 Fall Annual Town Meeting. The body is scheduled to vote on a recommendation for the Special Town Meeting Warrant.

• Vote on Special Town Meeting Warrant Recommendation
• Review of 2022 Fall Annual Town Meeting Warrant
• Appointment of Liaison to Capital Planning Committee

Cultural Council

The Chelmsford Cultural Council will meet to review the treasurer's report and approve previous meeting minutes. The body will discuss grants and the 2023 photography contest.

• Discussion of grants
• Discussion of 2023 photography contest

North Chelmsford Water District Minutes are found at www.northchelmsfordwater.com

The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to review legal and engineering invoices. The board will discuss PFAS contamination at 54 Richardson Road and the Groton Road Massworks Grant.

• PFAS contamination at 54 Richardson Road on the DPW Property
• Groton Road Massworks Grant
• Review and approval of Legal and Engineering Invoices

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The council will meet to approve minutes from June 15, 2022, and review income and expense statements for the period of July 20 to August 17, 2022. The meeting includes reports from the Executive Director and a community exchange.

• Approval of June 15, 2022 meeting minutes
• Review of income and expense statements (07/20/2022-08/17/2022)

Cultural Council

The Chelmsford Cultural Council is meeting to review the treasurer's report and approve previous minutes. The body will also hold a discussion regarding the 2023 photography context.

• Discussion of 2023 photography context

North Chelmsford Water District Minutes are found at www.northchelmsfordwater.com

The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to review legal and engineering invoices and discuss a Massworks Grant for Groton Road. The board will also address PFAS contamination on DPW property and a specific customer water bill.

• PFAS contamination at 54 Richardson Road on DPW property
• Groton Road Massworks Grant
• Review and approval of Legal and Engineering invoices
• Water bill discussion with customer from 916 Wellman Ave

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Northern Middlesex Metropolitan Planning Organization is meeting to review the status of transportation projects under design and construction. The body will discuss updates to the FFY 2022-2026 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and a safety plan update for the LRTA.

• Draft TIP Amendment 3
• Draft TIP Adjustment 2
• LRTA Public Transit Agency Safety Plan Update
• Status report on Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) projects

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Middlesex Canal Commission will meet to discuss liability issues involving the Commission and the Middlesex Canal Association. The body will also discuss the composition of a formal letter to Bob Martin, the owner of the Talbot Mills Dam.

• Liability discussion regarding Middlesex Canal Commission and Middlesex Canal Association
• Drafting a formal letter to Talbot Mills Dam owner Bob Martin

North Chelmsford Water District Minutes are found at www.northchelmsfordwater.com

The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to review legal and engineering invoices. The board will discuss PFAS contamination at 54 Richardson Road and a Massworks grant for Groton Road.

• PFAS contamination at 54 Richardson Road on the DPW Property
• Groton Road Massworks Grant
• 170 Princeton Street
• Review and approval of Legal and Engineering Invoices

LRTA

The Lowell Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board will meet to review monthly reports and financial warrants. The board is scheduled to vote on a Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan and the election of officers.

• Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan
• Election of Officers
• Review of warrants and invoices
• Finance Director's Monthly Report
• Facility Director's Monthly Report

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Middlesex Canal Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss the future of the Talbot Mills Dam, the Summit Pond, and the Middlesex Canal Heritage Park.

• Discussion regarding the future of Talbot Mills Dam
• Discussion regarding the future of Summit Pond
• Discussion regarding the future of the Middlesex Canal Heritage Park

CHOICE, Inc. - minutes are found at www.chelmsfordha.com

The board is meeting to conduct a reorganization of the board and review minutes from the October 13, 2021 meeting. The agenda consists of procedural items.

• Reorganization of Board
• Review of October 13, 2021 meeting minutes

Dog Park Advisory Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss the renewal of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Chelmsford Dog Association. Members will also review park conditions and project planning, including funding for the Front Garden.

• Review/Renew MOU with Chelmsford Dog Association
• CPC funding for Front Garden
• Park conditions review and project planning
• CDA Maintenance Update/Concerns

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Northern Middlesex Council of Governments will discuss a revised FY 2023 budget and staff salary reviews. The body will also receive updates on the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and the FFY 2023 Unified Planning Work Program.

• Revised FY 2023 Budget
• Personnel Committee report on staff salary reviews
• TIP and FFY 2023 Unified Planning Work Program updates
• District Local Technical Assistance (DLTA) XV update

CHOICE, Inc. - minutes are found at www.chelmsfordha.com

The board is meeting to conduct a reorganization of its membership and review minutes from the October 13, 2021 meeting.

• Reorganization of Board

LRTA

The Lowell Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board is meeting to review monthly reports and the warrant. The board will discuss the FY2023 budget and the annual review of the LRTA Administrator.

• FY2023 Budget Presentation
• Personnel Subcommittee report and vote on the Annual Review of the LRTA Administrator
• Review and vote on the Warrant

Northern Middlesex Council of Governments

The Northern Middlesex Metropolitan Planning Organization is meeting to review transportation project statuses and planning documents. The body will discuss amendments to the 2022-2026 Transportation Improvement Program and the development of the 2023-2027 program.

• Draft FFY 2022-2026 TIP Amendment 2
• FFY 2023-2027 TIP Development and presentation of comments
• Draft FFY 2023 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP)
• Status report on Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) projects under design and construction