 It does not happen often, but it will happen this year! Many residents have been wondering when they will directly benefit, in the form of a tax break, from the ongoing commercial development that has taken place in Watertown over the last few years. Fortunately. that will happen in FY24. This year the vast majority of residents will see an average drop in their tax bill of $800 to $1,000. Watertown is one of the few communities in the Commonwealth that can shift the tax burden from residential properties to commercial, industrial, and personal properties. Due to stipulations in state law governing the shift, Watertown has been limited in the past couple of years in how much of the tax burden can be shifted. Thanks to the efforts of our state delegation – Representative Steve Owens, Representative John Lawn, and Senator Will Brownsberger – the Legislature approved a home rule petition that allowed Watertown to shift up to 175% of the residential property value in Fiscal Year 2024. In FY22, the shift was only 159% and in FY23 it was 150%. In short, the residential tax rate for FY24 will drop from $13.58 per $1,000 of assessed value in FY23 to $11.70 per $1,000 of assessed value in FY24. Good news for homeowners! —————————————————————————————————————————————- Linkage Fee Produces $8,000,000 for Affordable Housing and Trust is Narrowing in on Possible Sites While the money is not in the bank, it looks like Watertown’s Affordable House Trust (Trust) will get’s its first allocation as a result of our linkage fee. At a recent Planning Board meeting, Alexandria Real Estate Equities (ARE) stated that it will pay $8 million in linkage fees to the Trust from its redevelopment of the Watertown Mall. I can’t tell you how exciting it is to share this news. Its also exciting to know that the Trust is closing in on recommendations to pursue public and private land that would be used or purchased to build affordable housing. Since December of last year the Trust has often adjourned to Executive Session to discuss the process and criteria for identifying potential sites. I look forward to what the Trust proposes and how it will structured the financing for new affordable housing. There is good news on state level with the introduction of the Governor’s $4 Billion Affordable Home Act (Act). It is a mix of proposed spending and policy changes. A few of the key items that are relevant to Watertown include: a) Increase tax credits to community development corporations (CDC). Most likely our Trust would partner with a CDC to build new housing and thus benefit for this funding. b) Allowing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) up to 900 square feet by right throughout the Commonwealth. At a recent meeting of the Trust there was a presentation and discussion of ADU. Allowing ADU was one of the recommendations in the Watertown Housing Plan. This is an important tool in the tool box of affordable housing. While it will require a change in our zoning code, there appears to be growing support for the program. c) A local-option real estate transaction fee of 0.5% to 2% “on the portion of a property sale over $1 million, or the county median home sale price”. If Watertown approved the local option, the funds raised could be allocated to the Trust for affordable housing. There is much more in the Act that you can read here.A question of you? What do you think of the idea that Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds be used for affordable housing on a regular basis. It is anticipated that by the end of FY24 there will be about $20.8 million in CPA funds. Each year there at least 10% of the funds need to be allocated for affordable housing. What if the Community Preservation Committee decided that the 10% set aside each year be allocated to the Trust? This would give the Trust a guaranteed source of funding, though the amount would vary. Please weigh in! |
1) After many meetings of the Committee on Rules and Ordinances and the work of its members as well as that of a determined group of residents, an ordinance establishing a Human Rights Commission will soon come to the City Council for a public meeting and vote. (The creation of a Human Rights Commission was required in our new Home Rule Charter of 2021.) This is no small accomplishment as there are some residents who remember unsuccessful attempts to establish a commission 20 years ago. Congratulations to the Committee and all the residents involved for getting us to this point. I am very confident that the Council will support the Committee’s report and their draft of the ordinance, and that soon after the Administration will move forward with recruiting, interviewing, and recommending to the City Council the residents who will serve on the Commission.
2) The Watertown Housing Authority got a big boost to its efforts to build affordable housing in Watertown for 5 individuals with disabilities on property they own at 103 Nicholas Avenue when it received $175,000 from the Community Preservation Committee. The grant is for design documents and the Authority anticipates applying for construction funds from the CPC in the future.
3) Please complete the Watertown Bridge the Digital Divide survey and help access federal funds that will directly benefit local programs for Watertown residents. Visit https://watertown-ma.gov/DigitalEquity to participate in the survey, locate broadband resources, and read more about Watertown’s digital equity efforts.
New Deputy City Manager! On January 6 the City Manager issued a press release announcing the hiring of Ms. Emily Monea as our new Deputy City Manager. Ms.Emily Monea began working on Tuesday, January17. Most recently she served as Acting Chief of Staff to Mayor Luengo-Koehn in the City of Medford “supporting the Mayor in daily leadership and management of the City, focusing on HR modernization, recruiting, complex employee matters, and labor relations”. She has also served as Chief of Staff to Mayor Curtatone for the City of Somerville. Please see a full description of her experience here. In the words of the City Manager, “Emily brings a breadth of experience on similar issues and opportunities that confront the City of Watertown. She has a proven track record in local government and values active listening and respectful dialogue“. As mentioned above, one of her duties will be to serve as our Community Engagement Officer.
More good news! The RFP for a thorough review of the City’s current classification and compensation of approximately 150 positions in City government has been awarded to GovHR. This is a particularly important study as many starting salaries for City positions have been a barrier to hiring. Also, the RFP to assess the City’s Personnel Department functions and processes to strengthen the way the City provides services has been awarded. The City has hired Raftelis to conduct the study. Finally, the Health and Human Services RFP was formally put out for bid in early January. I am looking forward to learning what organizations submit a proposal.
More Open Space and More Office Space! It has been a long time in coming, but finally the City has purchased new open space. The “i”s have been doted and “t”s have been crossed and Watertown is now the owner of Walker’s Pond, a 6.67 acre parcel in the West end of the City. It took a home rule petition to acquire .47 acres from the City of Waltham and a concerted effort to convince the seller to accept $11,150,000 as the sale price. Funds for the purchase came from the City’s Acquisition of Land Stabilization Fund which was established in FY22. The land can be used for open space and recreation. The City Manager has promised that there will be a community meeting to hear from residents about how it could be used. Equally exciting is the recent purchase of theformer Parker School on Watertown Street. The building, which was previously renovated by the owner and includes a number of tenants, will provide much needed office space as City Hall is busting at the seams. It will also offer a modest income stream from rents as well as 80 – 90 parking spaces. The cost of the property was $14,000,000 which was transferred into our Acquisition of Land Stabilization Fund. Twelve million dollars came from our “free cash” that was certified by that State at about $30,000.000 and that was available in 2023. Given the demand for new office space by various departments, the City Manager has hired a consultant to evaluate the space demands of all departments and recommend how the new space might be used.
Still Looking to Fill Important Positions! The City Council recently heard from the two finalists for the position of City Auditor. Unfortunately the individual we chose decided not to accept the position and it is unclear at this time what the situation is regarding the second candidate. Also, we have not successfully filed the position of City Council Clerk. As a councilor I know what an important role our present Council Clerk, Marilyn Pronovost, plays for the council president and my colleagues. If you know anyone interested in this part-time position, please contact President Sideris at msideris@watertown-ma.gov. Finally, the City is still looking for a Transportation Planner. Contact Steve Magoon at smagoon@watertown-ma.gov if you know a potential candidate.
Very Exciting News in the FY 2023 Proposed Budget
One of the most exciting proposals in the FY 2023 Proposed Budget is the inclusion of $425,000 for a new Organics/Composting Program. The budget proposal reads as follows, “The Organics/Composting Program will be offered in conjunction with Black Earth. This is an “opt-in” program at no cost for participating Watertown residents which will include curbside pick-up, start-up kits, and totes“. This is a huge step forward by the Department of Public Works and the result of years of advocacy on the part of a small, but determined group of residents.
There is a New Pleasant Street Shuttle that Will Serve Businesses and Watertown Residents
After more than four years in the making, there will now be a new Pleasant Street shuttle. Here is the recent announcement from the Town.
The Watertown Connector Shuttle launched this week, offering Pleasant St. residents and employees transportation from Pleasant Street to Watertown Square and Harvard Square. The WATConnector will stop at Watertown Mews, Riverworks, Watermills/Aver, Watertown Square and Harvard Square during the am and pm commute times.
Watertown residents can ride for $1.00. There are 2 ways to pay. Download the Tripshot App (Service Name is “Pleasant”), and pay with a credit card or ApplePay. If you don’t have a smart phone, you can buy a 10-ticket pass for $10.00 at the Town Clerk’s office, on the ground floor of Town Hall, 149 Main Street.
For more information go to Watertown Connector Shuttle – Pleasant Street (watertowntma.org), or contact Laura Wiener, Sr. Transportation Planner, at lwiener@watertown-ma.gov.
Good News on Reducing Our Solid Waste
The Town Council recently passed three important action items related to waste disposal and relevant to meeting the Commonwealth’s goal of reducing solid waste by 30% between 2020 and 2030 (ten years!).
The first action item called on the Administration to investigate implementing a no-cost program that collects textiles, curtains, towels, shoes, etc. The second action item called on the Administration to conduct a recycling survey of capacity per toter to help determine a need for weekly recycling pick up. The third called on the Department of Public Works to produce a draft organic/food waste recycling program with a cost/benefit analysis in order to develop a proposal for the Town Council. All these steps would lead to a reduction of solid waste and lower our tipping fees.
Equally exciting was the decision of the Committee on Public Works to task the Chair of the Committee to work with DPW and the Town’s attorney to draft a resolution to create a new Solid Waste and Recycling Advisory Committee (working title). If citizen engagement, public education and waste disposal research is your passion, get your resume out and get ready to apply to be a member of this committee! To top off the good news the 2020 budget calls for a Recycling/Solid Waste Coordinator position. This is a major step for the Department of Public Works and I am sure this person will work closely with the new Advisory Committee.
Special Announcement – Textiles, Paper Shredding and Styrofoam Recycling
There will be Textiles, Paper Shredding and Styrofoam Recycling for Watertown residents only on Saturday, June 12 from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. Please enter at Stanley Avenue. These items can be dropped off at the Jewish Day School parking lot at the entrance of Stanley Avenue. This is a free event for Town residents only – please bring an ID with you. For all standard recycling, please enter on Green River Way.
New CIO, DPH Superintendent, and Forestry Supervisor/Tree Warden, but Still No Assistant Town Manager for Communication and Engagement
New Chief Information Officer
Watertown has taken a big step, one that was much needed, to improve its IT capacity. Based on the recommendation of a December 2019 IT Assessment conducted by Plante Moran, a consultant firm the Town hired, Watertown has recently hired its first Chief Information Officer. Mr. Christopher McClure joined the Watertown staff on October 19 and immediately began implementing some of the recommendations from the IT Assessment. He plans to hire additional IT and social media staff and has already updated and improved the Charter Review Committee’s website (see above). We can expect improvements to the Town’s website and you can find the Town on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/watertowngov/, on Twitter at https://twitter.com/watertowngov, and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/watertownmagov/. You can reach Mr. McClure at cmcclure@watertown-ma.gov.
New Superintendent at Department of Public Works
After 32 years of dedicated service at the Department of Public Works Superintendent Gerry Mee has retired. He was recently replaced by Mr. Gregory St. Louis. As the new Superintendent of Public Works, Mr. St. Louis will oversee nine divisions and a staff of engineers, inspectors, administrators, and maintenance workers. You can reach Mr. St. Louis at gstlouis@watertown-ma.gov.
New Forestry Supervisor/Tree Warden
After a long search, Watertown has a new Forestry Supervisor/Tree Warden and he already has received rave reviews from residents and the local tree enthusiasts at Trees for Watertown. Mr. Gregory Mosman joined Watertown staff on September 28 and immediately began fulfilling the backlog of requests from residents for tree plantings. You can reach him at gmosman@watertown-ma.gov.
Still No Assistant Town Manager with a Focus on Communication and Engagement
Unfortunately once again there is no commitment by the Administration to hire an Assistant Town Manager whose responsibilities would include “managing communication content and enhancing public engagement“. For two years this recommendation was #1 among the Town Council’s Budget Policy Guidelines but it did not appear in the Town Manager’s FY 2022 Preliminary Budget Overview. While it is wonderful that we will soon have a well-staffed IT Department, it is no substitute for a position dedicated to communication and engagement. May I suggest that if you think such a position is important, and I have heard from many folks who believe it is, you contact our Town Manager, Michael Driscoll, at mdriscoll@watertown-ma.gov and ask that he include the part-time position in his final FY 2022 Budget.
First in New England !
Last year Watertown became the first city in Massachusetts to require a solar array on all new construction of 10 units or more. Now we will be the first city in New England to build two new elementary schools that are net zero! The new Hosmer and Cunniff will be outfitted with solar arrays and produce as much energy as they will use. This is an amazing accomplishment by the School Building Committee (SBC), under the leadership of Town Council President Mark Sideris, and Ai3 Architects. Credit also goes to the volunteer members of Watertown’s Environment and Energy Efficient Committee and the volunteer members of Watertown Faces Climate Change (a working group of Watertown Citizens for Peace, Justice and the Environment). These individuals were present at many if not all SBC meetings advocating for net zero at the Hosmer and Cunniff and as close to net zero as possible at the Lowell that will be renovated and expanded. It is also important to note that the schools have received LEED Gold certification. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a third-party certification that evaluates how buildings are designed and built to be energy efficient. Other metrics include CO2 emission reduction, water efficiency, and indoor environmental quality. The Gold certification is the third highest rating a project can receive. Again, congratulations to the Committee, the architect and our environmental activists.
Latest COVID-19 Update from the Town Manager
Farmer’s Market, Dog Parks,Tennis and Pickleball Courts open June 17th
Restaurants – Outdoor and Flexible Seating Initiative
Applications for Outdoor Seating
In an effort to assist local restaurants, the Town of Watertown has developed a policy allowing outdoor seating for restaurants and licensed establishments.
The Town is now accepting applications for temporary outdoor seating and use to allow for this activity to be undertaken by restaurants in a safe and responsible manner during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The review process is designed to be streamlined with staff level review and final approval by the Town Manager. The approval process will begin on Tuesday, June 16, 2020 based upon submission of complete and acceptable applications.
The attached application may be obtained at: https://www.watertown-ma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/29480/Watertown_Temp_Outdoor_Seating_Application_2020_0611
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-Town recently received a grant of $200,000 through the Commonwealth’s Housing Choice Community Capital Grant Program. The funds will be used to undertake a renovation and park modernization project along a portion of Arsenal Park. The new gateway entrance and renovation will increase access to recreational space for residents of the 880 new housing units in this area as well as visitors.
-There is a new planner at the Department of Community Development and Planning. Laural Schwab has joined the staff as a Senior Environmental Planner. One of her responsibilities is to address hazards caused by climate change. Ms. Schwab organized a recent meeting at the Watertown Free Public Library publicized as “Watertown Hazards: Taking Action to Prepare for a Changing Climate”. To learn more contact her at lschwab@watertown-ma.gov.
– Wayside Youth & Family Support Network’s Multi-Service Center and PBS’s science series, NOVA, are holding a screening of the documentary, Addition on Tuesday, March 5 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM at the Mosesian Center, 321 Arsenal Street. A panel of local experts will answer questions following the film. Contact Stephanie_Sunderland@waysideyouth.org for more details.
– The Watertown Youth Coalition will hold its annual meeting on Wednesday, March 20 from 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM in the Watertown Free Public Library. The “Well-Being of Watertown Youth – 2019 Town Hall Meeting” will feature a skit by the Peer Leaders and the Improbable Players and an interactive discussion of the key issues the WYC Peer Leaders have identified and addressed in past year.
-Watertown Public Schools is again sponsoring a two-day training on the Kingian Nonviolence Conflict Reconciliation program. The training will take place in the Community Room of the Watertown Police Station (552 Main Street) on Saturday, March 9 and Saturday, March 16 from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Register at the WPS website here.
——————————————————————–Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Priorities
I am happy to report that a number of my FY ’19 budget priorities were included in the Town Manager’s final budget that was approved by the Town Council in June. The Council on Aging, which manages the Senior Center, will have a new part-time program services assistant and their present social worker, Marina Kirsanova, will now be full-time. In addition, the Center’s bus will operate an additional day each week.
The Department of Community Development and Planning will be able to hire a new senior environmental planner who will staff the Town’s Conservation Commission and Historical Commission as well as work with the Department’s three senior planners. Each year I advocate for new staff at the DCDP. Given the many development projects in Watertown, I believe we need to continue to augment the capacity of this department.
To the delight of many, the Town has established a position of Forestry Supervisor/Tree Warden. For many years, our Tree Warden was wearing too many hats. Now, working in the Department of Public Works, the Forestry Supervisor/Tree Warden can focus attention on improving the Town’s public shade tree canopy. The budget also included funding for a new police officer.
Finally, the Town Council recently approved the creation of a new department, the Department of Public Buildings, which will eventually be responsible for the maintenance of all public buildings, including school buildings. The Department will have five employees under the direction of Ms. Lori Kabel, who was hired last year.
In the fall, the Town Council will begin the process of creating its budget priorities for FY ’20. Do you have suggestions on spending priorities? Do you think we need additional staff in a particular department? Is there a particular policy that you feel should be explored?
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New Town Employees
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The Recreation Department has a huge range of activities for people of all ages this fall including tennis, kayaking, junior crafts, yoga, trampoline dodgeball and flag football to name a few.
Here are some of the offerings. You can register at the Watertown Recreation Department office, 149 Main Street – Watertown, MA 02472, or online by clicking here: http://www.ci.watertown.ma.us/index.aspx?nid=713 For more information call 617-972-6494 or email recreation@watertown-ma.gov
Adult Fall Tennis Lessons 2017
Who: Adults 18+
When: Wednesday Evenings
September 13th – October 18th
(Meets for 1 hour once a week for 6 weeks)
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 pm (Beginner)
7:00 – 8:00 pm (Intermediate)
Where: Mary Williams Shea Tennis Courts (Victory Field)
Fee: $60.00 Resident $90.00 Non-Resident
All Sports Program
Who: Grades 3 – 5
When: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
September 11th – November 3rd
No program on 10/9
Time: Lowell and Cunniff: 2:30pm – 3:30pm
Hosmer: 2:45pm – 3:45pm
For early dismissal on 9/20 & 10/18, program at
Hosmer will be 12:30pm – 1:30pm
Where: Lowell School on Mondays (Last class on 10/30)
Hosmer School on Wednesdays (Last class on 11/1)
Cunniff School on Fridays (Last class on 11/3)
Fee: $30.00: 7 weeks Lowell School on Mondays
$35.00: 8 weeks Hosmer School on Wednesdays
$35.00: 8 weeks Cunniff School on Fridays
Junior All Sports Program
Who: Grades: Kindergarten – 2nd
When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays
September 12th – November 2nd
Time: Cunniff and Lowell: 2:30pm – 3:30pm
For early dismissal on 9/20 and 10/18, program at
Lowell will be 12:15pm – 1:15pm
Hosmer: 2:45pm – 3:45pm
Where: Hosmer School on Tuesdays (Last class 10/31)
Lowell School on Wednesdays (Last class 11/1)
Cunniff School on Thursdays (Last class 11/2)
Fee: $35.00: 8 weeks Hosmer School on Tuesdays
$35.00: 8 weeks Lowell School on Wednesdays
$35.00: 8 weeks Cunniff School on Thursdays
Cops & Rec Middle School Flag Football 2017
Who: Boys & Girls, Grades 6 – 8
When: Fridays
September 15th – November 3rd
(Meets for 8 weeks)
Time: 2:30pm – 4:00pm
Where: Moxley Field
Fee: $20.00 Residents
Junior Creative Crafts
Who: Grades Pre K – 2
(Pre K Entering Kindergarten Fall 2018)
When: Monday – Friday
September 11th – November 3rd
No program on 10/9/17
Time: Lowell and Cunniff: 2:30pm – 3:30pm
Hosmer: 2:45pm – 3:45pm, except for early dismissal on 9/20 &
10/18, program at Hosmer will be 12:30pm– 1:30pm
Where: Lowell School on Mondays (Last class 10/30)
Hosmer School on Tuesdays (Last class 10/31)
Hosmer School on Wednesdays (Last class 11/1)
Cunniff School on Thursdays (Last class 11/2)
Lowell School on Fridays (Last class 11/3)
Fee: $35.00: 7 weeks Lowell School on Mondays
$40.00: 8 weeks Hosmer School on Tuesdays
$40.00: 8 weeks Hosmer School on Wednesdays
$40.00: 8 weeks Cunniff School on Thursdays
$40.00: 8 weeks Lowell School on Fridays
Cops & Rec Middle School Volleyball Program
Who: Grades 6 -8
When: Thursdays
September 21st – November 2nd, 2017
(Meets once a week for 7 weeks)
Time: 2:30pm – 4:00pm
Where: Middle School Small Gymnasium
Fee: $15.00
Fall Flag Football 2017
Who: Boys & Girls, Grades 3 – 5
When: Saturdays
September 16th – November 4th
(Meets for 8 weeks)
Time: 9:30am – 11:00am
Where: Moxley Field
Fee: $40.00 Residents $60.00 Non-Residents
FREE Kayaking on the Charles River – in partnership with Live Well Watertown
When: Saturday, September 16, 2017
Time(s): Group times to choose from: 10:00am, 11:30am, 1:00pm, and 2:30pm
*You must arrive 30 minutes prior to departure time
Who: Open to all Watertown residents; Adult group 55+ at 10:00am
Where: Watertown Square Dock (Charles River Road and Galen St. intersection)
Cost: Free
Men’s Basketball – Open Gym
Who: Adults age 30 and over – no exceptions please
When: Sundays
September 17, 2017 – May 6, 2018
No programs on 12/24/17, 12/31/17, 2/18/18, 4/15/18
Time: 8:30 am – 10:30 am
Where: Watertown Middle School Gymnasium
Fee: $175.00 Residents $225.00 Non Residents
Musical Instrument Lessons
Who: Grades K – 12 (Watertown Residents Only)
When: September 18, 2017 – June 15, 2018
3 sessions – 10 classes per session
Session 1: September 18 to December 8, 2017
Session 2: December 11 to March 16, 2018
Session 3: March 19 to June 15, 2018
Class offered Monday thru Friday from 2:30 to 7:00 pm
Day and time arranged between parent/guardian and instructor
Fall: September 18 to December 8, 2017
Session 1 No classes: 10/9, 11/7, 11/10, 11/23, 11/24
Winter: December 11 to March 16, 2018
Session 2 No classes: 12/25 – 1/1, 1/15, 1/16, 2/19-2/23
Spring: March 19 to June 15, 2018
Session 3 No classes: 4/16- 4/20, 5/28
Where: Watertown Middle School – Music Rooms and Class Rooms as assigned
Tuition: 30 minute class: $25.00 per class x 10 classes = $250.00 per session
45 minute class: $37.50 per class x 10 classes = $375.00 per session
60 minute class: $50.00 per class x 10 classes = $500.00 per session
Extra classes can be available at the end of each session to maintain continuity of
program at an additional cost.
Pre Kindergarten Outdoor Sports
Who: Ages 3-5
When: Tuesdays or Wednesdays
September 12th – November 2nd
(Meets once a week for 8 weeks)
Time: 10:00am – 11:00am
Where: Victory Field
Tuesdays (Last Class 10/31)
Wednesday (Last Class 11/1)
Fee: Residents $35.00 8 weeks on Tuesdays or Wednesdays
Non-residents $50.00 8 weeks on Tuesdays or Wednesday
Register Online: www.watertown-ma.gov: “Online Payments”: Recreation Program Payments
Description: This program will stress fun and the fundamentals of soccer, T-Ball and other games. The children will work on skills needed to play these games as well as learn about teamwork and sportsmanship in a fun and safe setting.
Trampoline Dodge Ball
Who: Girls and Boys
Grades: 3 – 12
When: Tuesday Evenings
September 19 – November 7, 2017
Time: Grades 3 – 5: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Grades 6 – 8: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Grades 9 – 12: 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Where: Launch Trampoline Park
625 Pleasant Street, Watertown, MA
Fee: $50.00 Residents Only
Register Online: www.watertown-ma.gov: “Online Payments”: Recreation Program Payments
Description: Launch is offering a safe, reliable and affordable facility for a dodge ball program on Tuesday nights. Teams will consist of six members with the number of teams determined by enrollment. Games are played for the first seven weeks and on the eighth week, we will have playoffs and a championship game.
Launch requires an online Waiver of Liability to participate:
https://launchwatertown.pfestore.com/waiver/
Yoga at Artemis Studio
Who: Grades: 3 – 5
Grades: 6 – 8
When: Tuesdays
September 12th – October 31st
(Meets once a week for 8 weeks)
Time: Grades 6 – 8: 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Grades 9 – 12 5:15pm – 6:15pm
Where: Artemis Yoga Studio
639 Mount Auburn Street, Watertown
Fee: $75.00 Residents $100.00 Non-Residents
Register Online: www.watertown-ma.gov: “Online Payments”: Recreation Program Payments
Description: Younger and older kids will enjoy learning the fundamentals of yoga in a fun and engaging class that is both active and calm. Students will strengthen muscles, build flexibility and challenge themselves with new skills both individually and as a cooperative group. Everyone can practice yoga.
No particular fitness level or experience required and classes are tailored by age group.
Yoga at Artemis Studio
Who: Grades: K – 2
Grades: 3 – 5
When: Wednesdays
September 13th – November 1st
(Meets once a week for 8 weeks)
Time: Grades K – 2: 3:45pm – 4:30pm
Grades 3 – 5: 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Where: Artemis Yoga Studio
639 Mount Auburn Street, Watertown
Fee: $75.00 Residents $100.00 Non-Residents
Register Online: www.watertown-ma.gov: “Online Payments”: Recreation Program Payments
Description: Younger and older kids will enjoy learning the fundamentals of yoga in a fun and engaging class that is both active and calm. Students will strengthen muscles, build flexibility and challenge themselves with new skills both individually and as a cooperative group. Everyone can practice yoga. No particular fitness level or experience required and classes are tailored by age group.
Yoga at Artemis Studio Gentle Yoga with a Chair
Who: Adults Over 55
When: Wednesday
September 6th – November 1st
(Meets once a week for 8 weeks)
*no class on Oct 4th
Time: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Artemis Yoga Studio
639 Mount Auburn Street, Watertown
Fee: $75.00 Residents $100.00 Non-Residents
Register Online: www.watertown-ma.gov: “Online Payments”: Recreation Program Payments
Description: This class, which centers on relaxation and coordinating breath with movement, promises to be gentle. It can be done sitting in a chair or standing with accommodations for those who use walkers and canes, have limited flexibility and vision, or have never tried yoga before. Participants should wear only loose-fitting clothing. You may bring your own yoga mat or you can borrow one from the studio.
Classes focus on alignment and safety and designed for everyone with any level of experience. This class is taught by Ann Knocke who is a cardiopulmonary physical therapy clinical specialist, certified in Kripalu Yoga, Cardiac Yoga and Cancer Yoga.
Youth Fall Tennis Lessons 2017
Who: Grades 1 – 8
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays
September 12th – October 19th
Time: Grades 1 – 5: 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Grades 6 – 8: 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Where: Mary Williams Shea Tennis Courts (Victory Field)
Fee: $50.00 Residents $75.00 Non-Residents
Register Online: www.watertown-ma.gov: “Online Payments”: Recreation Program Payments
Description: This program will concentrate on basic tennis skills, forehand and backhand strokes, serving and scoring. We will also include games such as King of the Court, Wipe Out and Dungeons. The coaching staff is headed by Dan Cedrone, WHS Boys Varsity Tennis coach. This is a great opportunity to learn the game or improve the students’ skills. Students must bring their own racket. If equipment is a problem, please contact this office in advance.
New Code Enforcement Officer
I am pleased to announce that Watertown has a new Code Enforcement Officer, Antonio Mancini, who will be responsible for enforcing many of the codes that the Town has not had the capacity to enforce. The hiring of a Code Enforcement Officer has been a reoccurring budget priority of the Town Council for the last three years. Mr. Antonio will work under Mike Mena the Town’s Zoning Enforcement Officer within the Department of Community Development and Planning. Some of his priorities include snow removal of sidewalks along commercial corridors, work without building permits, commercial trash bins that are overflowing and/or blocking right-of-way, and the installation or alteration of driveways without a permit.
New Adopt-an-Island Program
The Town now has an “Adopt-an- Island” program. Ten locations in Town have been selected by the Department of Public Works to be offered to a business or community group who would be responsible for maintaining and beautifying the location. Visit http://www.watertown-ma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/19561 to see an explanation of the program and a registration form.
New School Superintendent
Congratulations to Dr. Dede Galdston who was selected by the School Committee to serve as the new Superintendent of the Watertown Public Schools. Dr. Galdston was one of two finalists for the position. (Arthur Unobskey, Assistant Superintendent from Gloucester, was the other finalist.) Dr. Galdston is currently the Assistant Superintendent in Billerica. I would like to thank the member of the Hiring Committee and the many residents who attended the public interviews and submitted comments for both candidates for their efforts. Dr. Galdston will begin her new position in July.
Neighborhood Solar
From June 15, 2016, to December 31, 2016, Neighborhood Solar is offering the residents of Watertown, as well as those from Cambridge, Belmont, Arlington, and Somerville, a solar group purchase discount program. The goal of Neighborhood Solar is to combine state incentives and tax credits with the best solar prices and the best solar quality and craftsmanship from SunBug Solar. Friends and neighbors using this program can reduce their electrical bill, reduce their carbon footprint, become more energy independent, and invest in renewable energy. Full details are available at www.neighborhoodsolar.org. For more information please contact Jocelyn Tager at (617) 661-6098 or info@neighborhoodsolar.org
Live Well Watertown
LWW’s mission is to create a network of diverse individuals and organization who promote wellness for everyone that lives, works, and plays in Watertown. It is impossible to list all the great health and wellness programs it has offered in the past and plans to offer in the coming months, so visit their web site at LWW.
Progressive Watertown
Progressive Watertown, a community-based organization that advocates for progressive social policy and supporters statewide and national candidates, is holding a discussion of the ballot questions that will appear on the November 8 ballot. There will be speakers for and against the four statewide questions – slot parlors, legalizing marijuana, farm animals, and charter schools – and the local CPA question. The program takes place on Sunday, September 25 at 7:00 PM in the Auditorium at the Apartments at the Coolidge School, 319 Arlington Street. Contact progressivewatertown@gmail.com for more information.
Watertown Dog Park Task Force
Shout out to the Watertown Dog Park Task Force, the Departments of Recreation, Public Works, and Community Development and Planning, the Conservation Commission, and the CDM Smith consultants on putting the pieces in place for a state of the art dog park at the Grove Street entrance to Filippello Park. This is the result of hard work, many meetings, and friendly persistence. Construction will hopefully begin in the spring of 2017. Also, there are plans to improve the existing dog park, at How Park, though a final approval by the Town and the Town Council has not been made yet.
Watertown Strong Schools
Watertown Strong Schools is an independent group of citizens whose purpose is to understand, support, and advocate for Watertown public schools. The organization provides information, resources and support to parents and educators. I am particularly grateful for their newsletter and the unofficial minutes of School Committee meetings that they provided. Give their web site a look by clicking here.
Kingian Nonviolence Trainer’s Institute
A big shout out to the individuals, particular Watertown teacher, Ruth Henry, the Watertown School District, and the Watertown Police Department for bringing the Kingian Nonviolence Trainer’s Institute to Watertown. The one-week training designed to build resilience and conflict reconciliation skills to the District recently graduated 42 faculty members, students, and police officers. The goal is to replicate the training throughout the school year for as many students, faculty, and others as possible.
Rethink Plastic!
Thanks to the Herculean effort of the members of Rethink Plastics, Watertown will join the many other cities and towns in banning single use plastic bags. The ordinance passed by the Town Council earlier this year will go into effect in 2017 and include a substantial community education program.
Watertown Public Transit Task Force
WPTTF began in 2014 with the goal of improving public transit and transportation in Watertown. The Task Force has sponsored two community-wide forums, one on transportation management associations and other on transportation demand management. In addition it provides periodic updates on transportation and transit issues affecting Watertown and monitors transportation initiatives of the MBTA and Department of Transportation. To get regular updates contact info@wpttf.org.
Watertown Family Network and Watertown Youth Coalition
Two of my favorite organizations deserve a shout out for their ongoing work with children and parents of young children and with Watertown Middle and High School students. Learn more about the Network by clicking here and follow the creative and inspiring work of Watertown young people around issues of substance use disorders at WYC.
Veteran’s Services and Senior Services
Thank you to Veteran’s Service Officer, Mark Comeiro for bringing the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Moving Wall to Watertown and surrounding communities. A special “Welcome to Watertown” to our new Director of Senior Services, Anne Marie Gagnon. Ms. Gagnon, who began her position on August 8, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the task of providing services and programs to Watertown seniors of all ages.
The Concert across America to End Gun Violence
On Sunday, September 25 over 200 communities (at last count!) will host a concert to “End Gun Violence and Remember the Victims of America’s Gun Violence Epidemic”. Watertown is one for the communities that will host a concert! The effort was initiated by Watertown resident, Amanda Peacock and is co-sponsored by Watertown Citizens for Peace, Justice and the Environment, World in Watertown, Progressive Watertown, and Sustainable Watertown. It will take place on Sunday, September 25 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Saltonstall Park. The program will include three bands and a series of short presentations by those affected by gun violence and those working to address the problem. For more information contact watertowncitizens@gmail.com.
Transportation in Watertown
Meeting on Filippello Park and a New Dog Park at the Grove Street Entrance
The recent meeting on the redesign of the Grove Street entrance to Filippello Park was marked by strong community dissatisfaction with the size and placement of a proposed dog park. Members of the Dog Park Task Force and I were disappointed by the conceptual design presented by the Recreation Department and the design consultant. It was the understanding of Town Council’s Public Works Committee, which held two meetings on the issue, that a dog park would be a central component of the redesign and be located on the site of the old recycling center. There was also concern raised by residents that greater effort could be made to incorporate community garden space. The input from the meeting will be considered when the ad-hoc town committee responsible for the project meets again. The Dog Park Task Force has asked to be represented on this committee in the past and that request was reiterated at the meeting. I urge those interested in a state-of-the-art dog park at Filippello Park to send an email to Town Manager Michael Driscoll (mdriscoll@watertown-ma.gov) and Town Council President Mark Sideris (msideris@watertown-ma.gov) asking that a representative of the Dog Park Task Force be invited to join the ad-hoc town committee. No date has been set for a future community meeting on this topic at this time.
Sunday, August 9 – Family Move Night hosted by the Watertown Police and Recreation Departments from 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM at the park at 552 Main Street, behind the Police Station. 6:30 – 8:00 – games, facing painting, pizza and refreshments, 8:00 – the move will begin. Please park in front of the Police Station.
Snow Shoveling Ordinance Meeting – July 7
The Committee on Public Works and the Committee on Budget and Fiscal Oversight will meet on Tuesday, July 7 at 7:00 PM in the Town Council Chambers to develop policy guidance on:
1. Work with the Town Manager to develop a funding source for the enforcement of the current snow ordinances as well as any future changes that may be made to these ordinances.
2. To determine how to effectively enforce a new residential snow ordinance.
I mentioned the possibility of this meeting in my latest Town Council Update. At the time I sent it out, the meeting was not confirmed. It is now!
Opioid Crisis is Watertown
The figures tell the story – Watertown is not immune to the opioid crisis surging across the Commonwealth. In Watertown there were two deaths from opioid overdoses in 2013 and one death in 2014, but since the beginning of 2015 eight people have died from a drug overdose. During the weekend of June 13 and 14 alone police and fire personnel responded to three overdoses emergencies. One of the individuals was saved by the use of Narcan but two individuals died.
The Human Services Committee, which I chair, held a meeting on Tuesday, June 16 at Town Hall to discuss the epidemic and how the Town and others can respond. For three hours, I and Councilor Dushku heard from town officials from the Departments of Health, Police, and Recreation, as well as medical and health experts, representative of recovery organizations and individuals suffering from the disease of addiction about the opioid crisis, the challenges in poses, and the steps that can be taken to address it. I cannot do justice to the presentations here, but I can share the message that was repeated over and over. If we are to meet this crisis we must remove the stigma associated with addiction through education and outreach so that it is understood of what it is – a chronic, relapsing, treatable medical disease. The Committee on Human Services will be holding a follow-up meeting on Monday, July 27 at 7:00 PM in Town Hall. I hope you can attend and bring a friend to learn about the action plan being developed and how you can get involved.
Transportation Meeting
The Watertown Public Transit Task Force, in cooperation with the Watertown/Belmont Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a comprehensive educational program on Transit Management Associations or “TMAs”. The program entitled, Watertown Shuttle Buses? will take place on Thursday, June 4 Aat 6:30 PM in the Watertown Free Public Library and will feature presentations from representatives from the Charles River TMA, the 128 Business Council TMA, MassCommutes and the Metropolitan Area Plannin Council.
Opioid Crisis Touches Watertown
We have read many articles of late about the opioid crisis the Commonwealth is facing as demonstrated by over 1,000 deaths since January 2015. The crisis touches Watertown as we learn from the fact that in 2013 there were two deaths from a drug overdose and in 2014 there was one death, but since January 2015 six Watertown residents have died from a drug overdose. On Tuesday, June 16 at 7:00 PM in the Louis Andrews Conference Room on the 3rd floor of Town Hall, the Committee on Human Services, which I chair, will hold a public meeting to discuss the crisis and the related issues of prevent and education. This is a continuation of a committee meeting held in March of 2014. Representatives from Town departments including Fire, Police, School, and Public Health as well as community-based organizations have been invited to attend.
My Vote on the Firefighters Contract
On December 9 the Town Council voted to rejected the budget resolution presented by the Town Manager which would fund the contract between the Town and the Waterown Firefighters Union. The resolution was defeated 8 – 1. My vote was the only vote in favor of the resolution and thus in favor of the contract. Some of the reasons I voted in the affirmative are outlined in a recent Letter-to-the-Editor penned by Rob Mannix, the President of Local 1347. http://watertown.wickedlocal.com/article/20141223/NEWS/141228768/2011/OPINION
However I would like to share my main reason for voting “yes”. I believe that the Town and the Union engaged in a process that was accepted as valid from the beginning by both parties. During negotiations there were concessions made, however unresolved issues forced the parties into arbitration. The subsequent ruling and award favored the Union on some points and the Town on others. From my perspective it was the responsibility of the Town Council to respect the process and vote to support the budget resolution. (It should be noted that the cost of the award was to be paid from a stabilization fund created to fund collective bargaining agreements as well as from the FY ’15 Town Council Reserve.)
In my opinion not funding the contract has sent an unfortunate message to other Town employees who are members of collective bargaining units. The question they may be asking is whether the Town will in the future respect the process of union negotiation. If the the budget resolution was passed, I think this question would be answered in the affirmative. If you would like to discuss my vote, please do not hesitate to contact me by replying to this email. I would be happy to have a phone conversation or meet with you.
Design Standards and Guidelines
On Saturday, November 22 over 60 residents attended the second community meeting about the development of new Design Standards and Guidelines. This meeting delved into the structure and content of the Guidelines and discussed a test case for a project at the corner of Arsenal and Irving Streets. The meeting presentation included graphics for the draft guidelines and looked at a test case (Pirolli Site at Irving and Arsenal Streets) for how design guidelines could affect one area.
There is a new web site dedicated to this effort at http://www.watertown-ma.gov/
New material will be added to the top of new web site on a regular basis so check back frequently. Also, I hope you will forward this information on to anyone you think might be interested.
Watertown Votes “No, Yes, No, Yes” on Ballot Questions
I and many others worked for “No, Yes, Yes, Yes” votes on the four ballot questions. In Watertown the vote was “No, Yes, No, Yes” and the statewide vote was, “Yes, No, No, Yes.”
Here is the breakdown by Question:
Question 1 – Repeal the Gas Tax
Watertown – NO with 52%
Statewide – YES with 53%
Question 2 – Expand the Bottle Bill
Watertown – YES with 59%
Statewide – NO with 73.5%
Question 3 – Repeal the Casino Deal
Watertown – NO with 52%
Statewide – NO with 60.1%
Question 4 – Require Earned Sick Time
Watertown – YES with 69%
Statewide – YES with 59.4%
Second Community Meeting on Design Standards and Guidelines
I urge those interested in how the many developments in Watertown will look now and in the future to come to the second community meeting on Design Standards and Guidelines on Saturday, November 22 at the Watertown Middle School from 10:00 AM to 12 Noon.
Meeting Agenda:
Recap from October 15th meeting
Design Guideline draft structure
Prototypical development that addresses draft Design Guidelines
Test application of Guidelines to Greystar’s “Elan” project
Mechanisms for enforcement
Public Works Committee Votes to Recommend Approval of a Third Dog Park
At its meeting on Wednesday, October 22, the Public Works Committee of the Town Council voted to recommend to the full Town Council that a third Watertown Dog Park be located at Fillipello Park.
Town Council Increases Affordable Housing Units
On Tuesday, October 14 the Town Council voted to amended the Town’s Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance by raising the percentage of affordable units in large developments from 10% to 12.5%.
Town Manager Presents Preliminary Budget for FY ’16
On Tuesday, October 28 the Town Manager presented his Preliminary Budget for FY ’16 at the Town Council Meeting. The presentation of the preliminary budget marks the beginning of the budget process.
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Council Votes to Create an “Ad-Hoc Committee on Victory Filed Renovations”
On Tuesday, October 14 the Town Council unanimously to accept a proposal presented by Town Council President Mark Sideris that established an “Ad-Hoc Committee on Victory Field Renovations” to make recommendations on a design proposal. There will be nine-members of the Committee including 3 members of the public, the Director of Recreation, the Director of Community Development and Planning, a member of the Watertown youth sports groups, and a member of the Watertown Public Schools. Councilor Piccirilli will serve as Chair and I will serve as Vice Chair.
President Sideris’ proposal also required that the field inside the track should remain natural grass and that artificial turf should not be component of the Committee’s design proposal.
Boston Volkswagen Withdraws Its Request for Sullivan Tire Location
In a letter to the Planning Board U.S. Auto Group/Boston Volkswagen requested that its permit request for 21 North Beacon Street (Sullivan Tire) be withdrawn and that the ZBA approve its request to withdraw at its meeting on October 22.