The Manager's Blog

Veterans Memorial and O'Connell Plaza

2009-10-06T08:26:00.003-04:00

Heavy rain did not dampen the ceremonies on Saturday to dedicate the new Veterans Memorial within the Edward F. O’Connell Memorial Plaza at Town Hall. In an uplifting ceremony coordinated by Selectman Jim Johnson and attended by many veterans and their families, the Town formally dedicated the Memorial and the O’Connell Plaza. Appearing on six separate monuments designed to match the brick and brownstone exterior of Town Hall are over four thousand names of veterans from Winchester who served during our country’s wars. Separate plaques were created for the Civil War, the Spanish American War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Plaque(s) will eventually be created with the names of veterans who served during the recent and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere.

The new Veterans Memorial was a joint project of the Town and private individuals and organizations dedicated to the Town’s veterans. The O’Connell Plaza will serve as the focal point of the Town’s ceremonies on each Memorial Day and Veterans Day and as a place to reflect upon the sacrifices and contributions of those men and women who left Winchester to serve their country.

Let the Games Begin

2009-08-13T10:20:00.003-04:00

Today marks the opening games of the Cal Ripken Major/60 World Series being held right here in Winchester, Massachusetts. A number of teams from around the country have qualified for participation in this event, including:

• Rainbow City/Southside, Alabama (Southeast)
• Kingsbridge, New York (Middle Atlantic)
• South Lexington, Kentucky (Ohio Valley)
• Waite Park, Minnesota (Midwest Plains)
• Visalia, California (Pacific Southwest)
• Johnson County, Arkansas (Southwest)
• West Lewis County, Washington (Pacific Northwest)
• Raynham, Massachusetts (Eastern Massachusetts State Champ)
• Burlington, Massachusetts (New England)
• Winchester, Massachusetts (Host Community)

The hosting of the World Series is a tremendous accomplishment that is the result of the efforts of Sachem Youth Baseball and Softball. Led by Bob Nutile, this organization has renovated the West Side Field facility and provided all of the resources necessary to host such a significant event. The entire Winchester community has stepped up with a range of events and activities designed to support the World Series and welcome our guests.

Last evening, a banquet was held welcoming the teams headlined by former Red Sox player and manager Butch Hobson. Opening festivities at the West Side (Nutile Field) were a great success and attended by a number of dignitaries, including the Lieutenant Governor.

Good luck to all the teams!

The EnKa Parade

2009-05-18T08:46:00.001-04:00

The annual EnKA parade and carnival took place under relatively good weather this past weekend. This event is an enjoyable opportunity for Winchester to celebrate all of its community groups and organizations and to have fun.

The EnKA Society is a woman's non-profit volunteer organization, devoted to raising funds to contribute to non-profit organizations that serve the people of Winchester.

Stand for Children

2009-03-30T11:25:00.001-04:00

The Town of Winchester was prominently represented at the recent Stand for Children rally at the State House. Stand for Children is a leading voice for Massachusetts' children, and the Commonwealth's only statewide grassroots education advocacy group.

The Winchester delegation was comprised of town and school officials and interested parents. It delivered over 7,000 postcards to our state legislators advocating for a fairer distribution of financial aid and for more flexibility in financing and managing the Town’s affairs.

ICMA Conference

2008-09-29T09:59:00.001-04:00

I recently attended the International City and County Management Association’s (ICMA) annual conference. This year’s conference was held in Richmond, Virginia. It was fitting to meet in Virginia since 2008 represents the 100th anniversary of the founding of modern city management in the United States. In 1908, the City of Staunton, Virginia hired Charles Ashburner as a city manager, heralding the reform movement in city government and serving as the initial step in the establishment of the council-manager form of government that is so prevalent in the United States today.

Clearly, the focus at this year’s conference was the turmoil in the country’s economy and the credit crunch that has created a crisis in the financial markets. A great deal of uncertainty and concern exists on the impact that this crisis will have on the ability of municipalities to issue bonds and the overall fiscal health of states and localities. The upcoming presidential election was also a timely subject of discussion at the conference.

The ICMA conference is an excellent opportunity to stay up to date on emerging trends in municipal government, to network with other local government managers and to renew one’s commitment and enthusiasm for democratic, ethical and professional service.

The conference in Richmond also represented the end of my tenure on a three-year term on ICMA’s Executive Board. It was my privilege to represent city and town managers from the northeast region of the United States on the Board and to promote professional local government in general.

Shannon Beach

2008-09-29T09:00:00.002-04:00

Recently, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) named the former Sandy Beach recreational facility Shannon Beach in honor of the late State Senator Charles Shannon of Winchester. At a ceremony held on September 13 attended by family and friends and numerous state and local officials, Senator Shannon’s legacy of public service was fondly remembered. It is fitting that the beach and recreational facility will be named for Senator Shannon, who dedicated his life to public service and opportunities for youth.

Winchester is with Alicia

2008-08-19T15:25:00.002-04:00

Over the last several days, the Winchester community has experienced the ups and downs of our own Alicia Sacramone’s participation at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China. We are extremely proud of Alicia’s efforts and accomplishments as one of the world’s top gymnasts. We congratulate her on the silver medal as a member of the United States team. We share her disappointment with a fourth place finish in the vault competition despite her outstanding performance. Most important, we admire her character and sportsmanship as she persevered with adversity on a world stage.

The Town will be organizing appropriate recognition activities in the coming days as Alicia returns home from China. We are very proud of her.

The Champs

2008-06-16T10:15:00.002-04:00

Winchester has done it again by having three teams win state championships this spring. The Girls Lacrosse, Boys Tennis and Girls Tennis teams have all reached the ultimate success in sports- becoming the Champs.

Congratulations to all of these teams, their parents and supporters. Your community is proud of you.

Go Winchester!

2008-06-09T10:03:00.005-04:00

As the school year winds down, three Winchester High School athletic teams are vying for state championships. On Tuesday, June 10, each of the following teams will be playing;

Girls Lacrosse vs. Norwell at Babson College at 5:30. This is for the State Championship.

Boys Tennis vs. Dover Sherborn at Lexington at 3:00. This is the State Semi-Finals.

Girls Tennis vs. Cohasset at Newton South at 3:30. This is the State Semi-Finals.

Good luck to each team.

Memorial Day 2008

2008-05-26T08:39:00.002-04:00

On this Memorial Day, Winchester and the entire nation pauses to remember the extreme sacrifices that the men and women in the military made for us. As veterans of World War II pass, we must dedicate ourselves to keeping their memories and the contributions they made for our country alive.

Memorial Day in 2008 is as important as ever with so many young men and women serving in harms way in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Today, the Town of Winchester will honor those veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice by conducting a parade and memorial services. Soon, the Veterans Honor Roll will be replaced with a larger and more fitting facility.

Honor the Veterans this Memorial Day.

Town Meeting Begins

2008-04-27T21:32:00.006-04:00

On April 28, Winchester’s 169th Town Meeting will commence. Beginning at 7:30 PM in Winchester High School, Town Moderator John Sullivan will gavel the meeting to order and 192 elected Town Meeting Members will consider thirty articles on the Warrant (agenda). These will include a full range of issues facing the Town of Winchester, including zoning, acceptance of state laws and the budget. Sessions of Town Meeting are held on consecutive Mondays and Thursdays until the business on the Warrant is concluded.

A Motion Book is published listing each article, the proposed motions and an explanation of the issue.

Race- The Power of an Illusion

2008-03-17T09:30:00.008-04:00

I am pleased to be participating in a program sponsored by the Winchester Multicultural Network entitled Race and Place. Using the PBS documentary of Race, the Power of an Illusion, the program is a dialogue among members of the Winchester community on the historical relationship between race, place and economic prosperity. It is hoped that the program will generate specific action steps for our community.

The first session, effectively facilitated by Angela Guidice, explored the insignificant biological differences among peoples of the world.

Thanks to the Network as well as the Winchester Public Library and the Fair Housing Center of Greater Boston for their sponsorship of this important program.

Champions Again

2008-03-03T12:07:00.003-05:00

Photo by Aram Boghosian
Congratulations to the Boys Wrestling Team for their undefeated season and state championship. The team beat Wayland for their 61st consecutive win without a loss to secure their second straight state championship. The Town is extremely proud of Coach Larry Trembley and all of the members of WHS’ team for their outstanding season under difficult circumstances.

Congratulations also go out to Winchester’s Boys and Girls hockey teams and to the Boys basketball team for making this year state tournament.

The Budget

2008-02-20T09:21:00.005-05:00

With the Town’s fiscal year beginning in July, the winter months are consumed with preparing and debating the Budget. On February 15, I produced a Budget proposal for consideration by the Finance Committee and approval by the Annual Town Meeting. This year, the Budget includes a three-year outlook and plan.

The FY 2009 Budget totals $79,414,258 exclusive of enterprise, grant and other special funds. This represents an increase of 5.23% over FY 2008. This increase is inflated by nearly 1% as a result of temporary debt costs incurred for the Hamilton Farm acquisition.

The ability of the Town to control the traditional budget busters of employee health insurance and energy, combined with solid growth in the Chapter 70 state aid program, make this a “Level Services” budget. That is, the budget allows for the continuation of all existing staff, programs and services.

Highlights of the FY 2009 Budget are as follows;

· An overall increase of 5.23%, excluding enterprise funds
· Control of increases in fixed costs, including health insurance and energy.
· Maintenance of existing staff, programs and services
· Prioritization of public education
· Modest restorations and investments in prioritized municipal services
· Establishment of a Recreation Enterprise Fund to replace revolving funds
· Maintenance of adequate reserve balances
· Initial investment to offset GASB 45 (post employment benefit) liability
· Allocation of available debt capacity to capital reserves

Nobody's Perfect

2008-02-05T11:58:00.000-05:00

The Super Bowl has come and gone, and taught many of us a hard lesson in life in the process. The New England Patriots seemed destined to win the Super Bowl and become the first undefeated football team in over thirty-five years. The media frenzy and public pronouncements of perfection were so intense that it created a disastrous outcome if the Patriots failed to win. Sure enough, the Patriots were unable to perform at the high standards they were accustomed to throughout the year and the Giants had the right mix of momentum and execution to win the game.

Most Patriots fans experienced sadness, anger and depression over the loss. The expectations were simply too high for a sporting event that has seen its share of upsets and for a sport where an unbeaten season is so rare. As I have struggled with the loss over the last two days, I am reminded that nothing is perfect and life is full of upsets. It is a hard enough lesson for adults, never mind the more vulnerable youngsters who have been swept up in Patriots fever.

As long term Red Sox fans know full well, wait ‘til next year!

In Honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.

2008-01-18T15:57:00.000-05:00

On Monday, January 21, the nation will honor and celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Town Hall and other facilities of the Winchester’s town government will be closed on this holiday.

Martin Luther King, Jr. was an inspirational leader for my generation and the face of the civil rights movement that has transformed America. As a youngster, I will never forget the startling news announcement on television of his murder.

On Monday from 3:00-5:00 PM at Metcalf Hall in the Winchester Unitarian Church, the community is invited to celebrate Dr. King’s life with a music and storytelling program by renowned artist Valerie Stephens. The event is free compliments of the EnKa Society.

MMA Annual Meeting

2008-01-13T23:41:00.000-05:00

I represented the Town of Winchester at last week’s annual meeting of the Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA) in Boston. The MMA is an organization that represents the interests of local government. In attendance were local officials from throughout the state, including town managers, selectmen, mayors, councilors and finance committee members.

Within the annual meeting, local officials were addressed by Mayor Menino of Boston, Governor Deval Patrick, United States Senator John Kerry and Michael Widmer of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation. A number of workshops are provided on a variety of issues facing local government and there is a trade show featuring vendors of services and equipment.

The MMA annual meeting comes at a critical time as I am finalizing my budget submission for the next fiscal year. The meeting is a great opportunity to review budget assumptions and to secure financial and political information necessary to plan for the upcoming year.

Updates

2008-01-13T23:37:00.000-05:00

When I was reminded that I had not updated this Blog since the Red Sox won the World Series, I realized what a long time it has been. Perhaps I felt nothing could top the Red Sox winning their second championship in four years?

It’s not like things haven’t been going on for the last several months. It has been a busy time for Winchester’s town government and the community; and for me as well.

I’ll try to keep the Blog more up to date.

World Series Champions

2007-10-29T11:04:00.000-04:00

Today is a day of great celebration and happiness for Red Sox Nation. Our beloved Red Sox are World Series champions after an impressive four-game sweep of the Colorado Rockies. This year’s championship might seem anti-climactic given the fact that the Sox led their division for most of the year and had come back from a nail biting series against the Cleveland Indians to win the pennant. Those of us who have been around for a while, however, know differently and cannot take any Red Sox success for granted.

The Red Sox of 2007 were an impressive team that will go down as one of the greatest in club history. Experienced veterans like Tim Wakefield, Curt Schilling and Jason Varitek were joined by exciting rookies Dustin Pedroia and Jacoby Ellsbury. The power lineup of David Ortiz, Manny Ramirez and Mike Lowell was unmatched by any team, and the pitching staff led by Josh Beckett, Daisuke Matsuzaka and Hideki Okajima were equally impressive. And my personal favorite, Jon Papelbon, exemplified the team that played hard but had fun doing it.

In 2004, the first Red Sox World Series championship in 86 years was celebrated like no other. The 2007 championship will be celebrated differently, but with great joy for a wonderful team that makes all in Red Sox nation proud. I am looking forward to the World Series trophy making a return visit to Winchester in 2007!

In Support of ABC

2007-10-16T13:50:00.000-04:00

Since this blog does not accept comments, I have intentionally avoided controversial public policy issues. However, recent events that have resulted in compromising the safety and happiness of some of our most promising yet vulnerable residents is simply too important to evade.

Winchester is home to A Better Chance (ABC), an organization that places academically talented minority students in the Winchester school system. Currently, eight scholars live in the ABC house, attend Winchester schools and are members of a host family in the community. Since 1971, more than 70 scholars from ABC have graduated from Winchester High School. Most have gone on to receive higher degrees. It is fair to say that the Winchester community has been equally enriched from our ABC students. Recently, a dispute between a member(s) of ABC and other youths has escalated into a protracted and dangerous series of altercations. The most recent event has resulted in felony charges against individuals who have targeted our ABC students. The Police Department has taken this matter very seriously, but must proceed in a manner that is deliberate and consistent with our state and federal constitution and laws. At its meeting on October 15, 2007, the Board of Selectmen made individual and collective statements that confirm the Town’s commitment to supporting our ABC students and pledge to use the Town’s full resources to prosecute the individuals charged with assaulting them. Specifically, the Town will vigorously encourage and support the District Attorney to pursue the maximum criminal penalty allowed and to take other measures necessary to ensure the safety and well being of our students.

At the Selectmen’s meeting, ABC House Director Gavin Samms provided a compelling story about the vulnerability of young minority men living in an upscale community far from their hometown and families. At this critical juncture, these young men deserve the Town’s duty to keep them safe. Just as important, they need the community’s love and support.

Back to School

2007-09-04T11:47:00.001-04:00

The summer was great, but it’s time to get back to school.

September 5 is the first day of school in Winchester. All residents and visitors to Winchester should be alert to the presence of children walking to school and for school buses stopping to pick up or drop off.

The beginning of school is an exciting time as children, teachers and parents begin new challenges. This same level of excitement (and anxiety) is felt by everyone at this time of year. Good luck to all as you end the summer season and get back into the busy routine of fall.

Winchester Hosts Cal Ripken Tournament

2007-07-22T22:47:00.000-04:00

Throughout this week, Winchester is hosting the 12 year old New England Regional Tournament. In addition to Winchester, the teams participating are Gorham, Maine, Nashua (West), New Hampshire, North Country, Vermont, South Meriden, Connecticut, West Warwick, Rhode Island, Marlboro, Massachusetts and Marshfield, Massachusetts. The winning team will advance to the national world series in Van Buren, Arkansas.

The tournament is held at the West Side Field complex. Opening night festivities on Friday were exciting and the play is expected to be outstanding. The Town is pleased to host the players, families and fans during the tournament. A special note of recognition to Bob Nutile, long time coach and League official. The Bob Nutile Field was dedicated last year at West Side, and Bob continues to be the driving force in hosting the tournament in Winchester.

Washington, DC

2007-07-11T10:06:00.000-04:00

I recently spent a couple of days in Washington, DC with my family. It is impossible to visit the nation’s capitol without appreciating the unique history and contributions our founding fathers made in creating the United States of America. The democratic form of government established by the Constitution was a bold move that has endured many challenges and crises, not the least of which was a devastating civil war between the states. In my lifetime, there have been many other challenges to our government and society, including the Cold War, Vietnam, Watergate, and the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Today, our country is in crisis with a war in the Middle East, a controversy over immigration policy and a pervasive economic and social milieu that has created a second class of citizens. Still, the Constitution remains as strong and relevant as ever, and there are many achievements and success stories to celebrate.

Serving in local government provides a solid understanding about the nature of our federal and constitutional system of government and the ability of citizens to influence and control the direction of public policy and programs.

I am proud to be an American citizen from a state that was so influential in the founding of this great country.

State Champions

2007-06-27T10:50:00.001-04:00

The Town of Winchester is proud to have both its boys and girls high school tennis teams as state champions this spring. At a ceremony at Town Hall last evening, the Board of Selectmen recognized this significant achievement and presented team members with a commemorative medal. The Town is proud of all its student athletes and teams this past year. Winning a state championship is an historic event that will be forever recorded in the annals of the Town and in the memories of all players and coaches.

Congratulations!

Photos by William Ryerson

Good Luck Sachems!

2007-06-13T16:10:00.000-04:00

Three Winchester High School teams are vying for tournament championships this week. The Girls Lacrosse, Boys Tennis and Girls Tennis teams are all competing for state regional championships this week. Good luck to all teams as they compete. Regardless of the outcome, your community is proud of your efforts and spirit.

Alan Macdonald- Citizen of the Year

2007-05-17T10:17:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Alan Macdonald, Winchester's Citizen of the Year. Alan was honored at a gala event hosted by the Winchester Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday evening, May 16, 2007. Hundreds of Alan's family, friends, colleagues and fellow Winchester citizens attended the event to honor his outstanding contributions to the Winchester community.

Alan has served Winchester for over three decades, including two terms as a Selectman. Recently, he served on the Selectmen's FACTS Committee and the Town Manager Search Committee. He serves on many local boards, including the Winchester Savings Bank and the Winchester Scholarship Committee. He has become a favorite for his coverage of local election results on WinCam.

The Chamber of Commerce's Citizen of the Year award is in its 27th year, having honored outstanding people who have made major contributions to improving the quality of life in Winchester. Congratulations, Alan, and thank you for your service and your class.

The Champions

2007-04-10T09:41:00.000-04:00

Photo by William Ryerson

At their meeting on Monday, April 9, the Board of Selectmen formally recognized Winchester High School’s state championship wrestling team. The Board presented team members and coaches with commemorative medals acknowledging their undefeated season and state championship.

Athletics are an essential part of the education and development of our children. Teamwork, hard work and fair play are all important lessons for society that sports teaches. Winning a state championship is a tremendous achievement that will be a lasting memory and sense of pride for the team.

The Winchester community is proud of the young men on the wrestling team who achieved so much this year under the direction of head coach Larry Tremblay and Eric Johnson.

Congratulations, gentlemen!

ICMA

2007-04-02T15:31:00.000-04:00

Founded in 1914, ICMA (International City/County Management Association) is the premier local government leadership and management professional organization. Its mission is to create excellence in local governance by advocating and developing the professional management of local government worldwide. In addition to supporting its 8,200 members, ICMA provides publications, data, information, technical assistance, and training and professional development to thousands of city, town, and county experts and other individuals throughout the world. I am privileged to serve on the Executive Board of ICMA.

Last Thursday and Friday, I participated in ICMA’s northeast regional summit in White Plains, New York. Along with dozens of other local government managers from the northeast states, I participated in a professional development workshop. The workshop, entitled “ Sustainability as Legacy: Leaving a Legacy of Public Service”, reviewed sustainability in a variety of areas, including economic, environmental, organizational and social.

As a member of the ICMA Board, I also participated in business meetings related to the organization. A main focus of the organization is to build the next generation of public managers. This is a challenge given demographic data that indicates a shortage of qualified candidates for managerial positions, along with the trend of Master of Public Administration graduates pursuing private non-profit opportunities.

Eagle Scout

2007-03-26T16:51:00.000-04:00

It was my pleasure to participate in the Eagle Court of Honor for Henry C. Kellogg. Held at the Parish of the Epiphany on Church Street, the Eagle Court of Honor was attended by Henry’s family, friends and members of Boy Scout Troop 507.

The Eagle Scout is the highest advancement rank in Scouting. A Boy Scout must fulfill several requirements in the areas of leadership, service, and outdoor skills to attain the rank of Eagle Scout. A community- based project is the centerpiece of the challenge. Henry’s project involved education and awareness on the merits of having house numbers visible from the street to facilitate public safety response. He canvassed over 2,000 homes, published news articles, distributed and, in some cases installed, house numbers on many homes. The fruits of his labor were realized when a gas leak was reported at one of the homes he completed. Having a house number helped ensure a speedy and safe response to the emergency.

The Town of Winchester is appreciative of the community contributions and value provided to our youth from Boy Scout Troop 507, Troop 503 and other scouting troops active in Winchester. We thank Henry Kellogg for his service to the Town and congratulate him on his advancement to Eagle Scout.

The Farm

2007-03-14T10:51:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Winchester and the region for the vote of March 13, 2007, which enabled the Town of Winchester to acquire the 20 acre Wright-Locke Farm. By acquiring the Farm, the Town will preserve the most important historic and open space features of the property while pursuing limited residential development to help offset the $13.6 million cost. The Town has notified the owners of its option to exercise its right of acquisition and will be taking the necessary legal and financial obligations to close on the deal as authorized by the February 26 Special Town Meeting. In addition, the Board of Selectmen is considering next steps to refine its process to select a development partner based upon the Request for Proposals it initiated recently.

The decision to acquire the Farm was the result of much financial analysis and public input. While the negative consequences of a dense rental development that would have resulted was clear, the details and process of communicating with the voters of the Town was very complex. I am proud to have participated on the team, led by the Board of Selectmen, which also included the Planning Board, Finance Committee, Historical Commission and Conservation Commission. A strong cadre of consultants were instrumental in this effort, led by Assistant Town Manager Mark Twogood and Town Counsel Wade Welch, and supported by other Town staff. Finally, a word of thanks to the passion and commitment of the Winchester Hamilton Farm Interest Group.

It is not often that an opportunity presents itself to a community that has consequences to many generations. This opportunity presented itself to the citizens of Winchester in 2007, and they responded in decisive fashion.

VOTE!

2007-03-12T12:25:00.000-04:00

On Tuesday, March 13, 2007, the Town of Winchester will conduct an historic special election. Citizens will vote on whether the Town will acquire the 20-acre Hamilton Farm property off of Ridge Street (formerly the Wright-Locke Farm). Specifically, the election seeks authorization to exempt from the tax levy limitation imposed by Proposition 2½ the debt costs that the Town will incur from borrowing to match the sale price that the owners have negotiated with a third party (Avalon Bay). On February 26, 2007, Town Meeting approved the acquisition and authorized borrowing of $13.6 million subject to a successful vote at this election. Town Meeting also authorized the Board of Selectmen to pursue the sale of all or a portion of the property for no less than $7 million consistent with its Request for Proposals that identifies land use options for the Farm, including historic and open space preservation. State law requires that any proceeds generated from this sale be applied to the indebtedness incurred in acquiring the property in the first place.

A second question appears on the ballot seeking approval of a general Proposition 2½ tax override of $1,347,000 for the next fiscal year (FY 2008) that begins on July 1, 2007. These funds would supplement the general budget to support municipal and school programs and services. It is projected that the cost of this override in FY 2008 would be $0.25 on each $1,000 of property value.

I have been asked repeatedly why the Town would “waste” money or attempt to confuse voters by calling for a special election so close to the regularly scheduled annual election of the Town (scheduled for March 27). The reason for the special election was to accommodate a vote on the Hamilton Farm acquisition before the Town’s right of first refusal expired. According to state law, the Town has 120 days to exercise its right from the date it was presented a bona fide sale to a third party. This date expires on March 15.

State law precludes official Town resources from being used to advocate for or against ballot questions, so this Blog will not do so. I would, however, encourage all voters to participate in this important decision facing Winchester.

The polls open at 7:00AM at the normal locations and will close at 8:00PM.

WFEE Trivia Bee

2007-02-08T10:40:00.000-05:00

Last evening, I participated in the Winchester Foundation for Educational Excellence’s (WFEE) Trivia Bee program. Along with Jan Byford and Liz Silva, we comprised a team from Town Hall named “Smardi Gras”. The questions were tough, and we did not answer enough of them correctly to move to the Final Round. Our congratulations go to the winning team of the Winchester Parent/Faculty Association.

Since 1992 the Winchester Foundation for Educational Excellence has been providing private financial support to Winchester's children in order to foster innovation and excellence in teaching and learning. In 2005, the WFEE established the Promise Fund, a fund raising initiative spurred on by years of growing enrollment and decreasing state aid to education.

The Trivia Bee represents a fun event bringing together a wide range of organizations throughout the Winchester community. The common theme is educational excellence and opportunity for Winchester’s youth.

After last night, I will never forget that there are 42 dots on a pair of dice (not 40!), that the chemical symbol for Copper is Cu and that Truman’s vice president was Alben W. Barkley.

Wait till next year!

MMA Annual Meeting

2007-01-16T12:39:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, I attended the Annual Meeting and Trade Show of the Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA). The MMA is a nonpartisan association that provides advocacy, training, publications, research and other services to Massachusetts’s cities and towns. It serves as the voice for the Town of Winchester and other communities on public policy matters that impact our town government and community.

The meeting, held at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston on Friday and Saturday, provided a great opportunity for all municipal officials (Mayors, Selectmen, Managers, Councilors and others) to focus on issues facing their local governments, network with each other and with state officials, and to learn about new products and services in the municipal marketplace. The highlight of this year’s Meeting was an address by our new Governor, Deval Patrick. The MMA Annual Meeting served as the first major address of our new Governor.

Governor Patrick actually commented on the Town of Winchester when he criticized the impact of years of disinvestment in local government by the Commonwealth. He cited the private Promise Fund that finances essential public education services as an example of this disinvestment. Governor Patrick has committed to restoring the state/local partnership through mutual respect, communication and joint problem solving.

For me, the MMA Annual Meeting provides a great opportunity for learning and to connect with colleagues.

New Year's Resolutions

2007-01-08T13:44:00.000-05:00

OK. Time for my New Year’s Resolutions. If I put them on this Blog, maybe it will create more pressure to keep them!

Work:

1.) Update this Blog more frequently.

2.) Use a phone instead of e-mail more often.

3.) Schedule and complete smaller but important projects

4.) Return calls more timely

Home:

1.) Exercise more and lose weight (what would New Year’s be without this resolution!)

2.) Keep my Quicken checkbook up to date

3.) Get more sleep

4.) Return library materials on time

Honoring a Legend

2006-12-26T11:10:00.000-05:00

On December 19, Winchester honored local resident and rock and roll legend Herb Reed, founding member of the Platters, with a park bench. The bench is located at the small plaza at the Duck Pond on Main Street, adjacent to Karol’s Ice Cream.

The bench was purchased by Mr. Reed’s long-time personal assistant Gail Stewart as part of Winchester Chamber of Commerce’s beautification project. This project has replaced wooden benches in the Center with attractive, black metal units. The December dedication was scheduled to coincide with World AIDS Day, a humanitarian initiative supported by Herb Reed.

I was excited and pleased to participate in the dedication along with State Representative Paul Casey, Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Cathy Alexander and other friends and supporters of Herb Reed. Although I grew up in the 1960’s and 1970’s, I was turned on to 1950’s music after seeing the film “American Graffiti”. The Platters’ music typifies the beautiful ballads of the 1950’s.

The bench dedication event was especially satisfying because I had the chance to meet Herb Reed. Despite his worldwide stardom, Herb is a down to earth guy with a great sense of humor. Winchester is honored to have Herb Reed as a citizen.

Thanks to the League of Women Voters

2006-12-19T15:07:00.000-05:00

Last week, the League of Women Voters of Winchester sponsored their annual “Moveable Feast”, a holiday luncheon for the Town of Winchester’s employees. The program moves around each year to various municipal work sites. This year’s luncheon was held at the Department of Public Works facility on Lake Street. The luncheon provides an excellent opportunity for Town employees who would not otherwise meet one another to socialize and discuss their work in support of the citizens of Winchester.

On behalf of all employees of the Town of Winchester, I would like to thank the League for this kind gesture. It is very much appreciated.

Winter is Here

2006-12-04T11:06:00.000-05:00

After several weeks of unseasonably warm weather, the appearance of snow in Winchester is a clear sign that winter is here. The sounds and images of the holiday season are all around and remind us of the onset of New England weather.

Winter for the Town means gearing up to keep the streets safe for travel. The Department of Public Works (DPW) is responsible for this activity. The DPW has become prepared by outfitting its trucks with plows and sanders and filling its storage shed with salt and sand. Typically, snowplowing operations begin with scraping, then treating main roadway surfaces with salt. After accumulation of three inches of snow, the DPW begins a full-scale operation consisting of 27 plow routes. During more intensive storms, the DPW will use contractors to assist with the effort.

The initial effort of the DPW is to clear a main passageway for travel. Throughout the storm, trucks will continue to plow snow to the sides of the road. This can be frustrating for residents who have cleared snow from their driveways and sidewalks, but is necessary to accommodate parking and future snow storage. Residents of Winchester can help the Town with its snow plowing operations in the following ways.

Clear hydrants and drains of snow

If possible, clear snow and ice from the sidewalk in front of your property

Keep fences, mailboxes, basketball hoops, bike/skateboard ramps, etc. away from the edge of the road.

Do not park on the road during snow plowing operations.

Limit your travel if possible.

Do not shovel, plow or blow snow back into the roadway.

Sand and salt is available to Winchester residents at the Transfer Station on McKay Avenue.

Giving Thanks

2006-11-21T22:22:00.000-05:00

As we approach Thanksgiving, it is a good time to put into perspective the things that are truly important. It can be difficult to appreciate these things at times. Surely, the current state of affairs in Winchester and in our country are complicated and filled with uncertainty.

Our ability to fund quality public education and other public services in Winchester is constantly stretched. Financial help from the Commonwealth or the federal government is unlikely. Development of open spaces is relentless, despite the downturn in the residential market. The prospect of saving Hamilton Farm from development is daunting.

Our country is at war with little hope that we are making a difference. Terrorism and the spread of nuclear weapons capability are depressing to say the least.

Yet, with all of the gloom around us, we really do have much to be thankful for. We live and work in a community that cares about each other and will always help a family in need. Advances in medical technology and consumer productivity have created a quality of life that is the best it has ever been. Our children and grandchildren demonstrate great talent and capacity for positive social change.

It is always heartening to remember the lessons of our country’s first Thanksgiving, including the settlers’ perseverance and willingness to share with the native Americans. So, let us pause and give thanks at this time.

Happy Thanksgiving, Winchester (and beat Woburn!)

Veterans Day 2006

2006-11-10T00:30:00.000-05:00

On this Veterans Day, all residents of Winchester are encouraged to pause and thank the many men and women who have served our country in the armed forces. Winchester will honor its veterans on Friday, November 10, by closing Town offices and facilities (the Transfer Station will remain open on Friday and close on Saturday). On Veterans Day, November 11, a more formal parade and recognition ceremonies will take place beginning at 10:00 AM at Skillings Road and concluding at the O’Connell Veterans Memorial at Town Hall.

During this time of war, honoring the sacrifices of our veterans is even more important. Whether one favors the military conflict in Iraq or not, the young men and women who have put their lives on hold and serve our country honorably deserve our thanks and prayers.

Honor those who have served. Semper Paratus!

Town Meeting Time

2006-10-31T12:48:00.000-05:00

On Monday evening, November 6 at 7:30 PM in Winchester High School, Town Moderator John Sullivan will gavel Town Meeting to order and Town Clerk Mary Ellen Lannon will recite the notice to the Constables to post the Warrant. Town Meeting has evolved throughout the years, but it remains essentially the same institution that was established to govern the first communities of our country back in the 17th century. Town Meeting is the legislative branch of the Town of Winchester’s government. Only Town Meeting can appropriate funds, pass by-laws (ordinances), adopt zoning, authorize debt and sell land.

Town Meeting is a dying breed. It is only practiced in the New England states, and then only available to towns, not cities. Many New England towns have opted to abolish Town Meeting and move to a council form of government. Massachusetts is an exception (no surprise!). With the exception of a handful of towns, Town Meeting is the form of government for all towns in Massachusetts. This is even the case for larger communities such as Brookline, Framingham and Arlington.

This fall, the Winchester Town Meeting will consider important land use and budgetary matters. There are zoning proposals to control development at the former Immaculate Conception site on Main Street and the former Pansy Patch property on Cambridge Street. There is a proposal to adopt the Community Preservation Act (CPA), a state initiative that establishes a property tax surcharge to fund open space acquisition, historic preservation and affordable housing. Town Meeting will also be asked to approve some capital expenditures and approve increases in water and sewer rates.

I encourage all Town Meeting Members and interested residents of the Town to refer to the Town Meeting Section of the Town’s Internet site. It has copies of all official documentation on each article of the Warrant.

Town Meeting is a special institution that represents pure democratic government. Let’s celebrate it this fall with informed and respectful debate.

Winchester Reads

2006-10-23T08:28:00.000-04:00

The annual community reading initiative that the Winchester Public Library sponsors is a unique and enjoyable program. Having the entire community share the experience of reading a fictional novel is a great diversion from the stresses of everyday life and the divisions that controversial public policy issues can create.

This year’s book was In Revere in Those Days, by Roland Merullo. This is a beautiful story of a young boy who grows up in nearby Revere, Massachusetts in a close-knit immigrant family. He faces tragedy and many other struggles while growing up, but is able to call upon the strength of his family and the values he gained growing up in this blue-collar community. Last year’s book, Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini, was also a story of an immigrant family. In this case, most of the story is set in Kabul, Afghanistan. This novel provides a fascinating look at culture in the Middle East and how life changed when the Taliban came into power.

This year’s Winchester Reads program culminated in a session with the author himself. Winchester Reads is only one of many interesting programs that the Winchester Public Library provides to citizens of all ages. For more information on library programming, check out this web page- http://www.winpublib.org/whatsnewandevents.htm

Recycling-The Time is Now

2006-10-15T23:20:00.000-04:00

If you haven’t noticed yet, the Town is making a big push on recycling. Kicked-off in September with a banner in the Center, information on recycling has been inserted in the property tax bills, included in a recent On-Line Newsletter, and in materials heading home with schoolchildren later this month. New signs and recycling containers will be appearing at the Transfer Station soon. Recycling is important to the Town because it saves money. Every ton of paper that is recycled will save the Town over $75. Since funding for the Town’s solid waste operation is derived primarily from fees, this savings will be realized directly by Winchester residents. Recycling also helps sustain our environment. It makes so much sense to reuse products rather than burn or bury them.

Recycling is coming a bit late to Winchester. Over the last twenty years, the Town was involved in a very unfavorable solid waste contract that actually made it costly to recycle. This contract required the Town to pay for tons of trash that it didn’t deliver, making it difficult to justify generating less trash. Fortunately, this contract is over and the Town is now paying for the actual tons it delivers. Recycling trash avoids the $75/ton disposal charge and can generate additional revenue. This is especially the case with paper.

Recently, a group of graduate students from Tufts University studied the Town’s solid waste system. They completed a survey of residents that confirmed a flaw in the Town’s system- the Transfer Station facility is congested, making it inconvenient and difficult to recycle. The Town has acknowledged this problem and has solutions to solve it. However, the Transfer Station is built upon a former landfill and incinerator facility that makes modifications costly and subject to state environmental review. We are on the verge of a breakthrough with this issue and are hoping to design improvements later this year.

Meanwhile, we encourage all residents to make an extra effort and develop a recycling plan for your home. Start with paper- it is the most important aspect of the waste stream. You may combine newspapers, junk mail, magazines and office paper all in one container and deposit it is the applicable bin at the Transfer Station.

Please recycle- the time is now!

The Clock Tower

2006-10-06T14:37:00.000-04:00

One of the more enjoyable aspects of being Town Manager is my responsibility for our community’s house- Town Hall. Many days, I actually spend more time in this house than in my own!

Built in 1888, Town Hall is a classic building in the Romanesque style. It was designed by the architectural firm of Rand & Taylor. It dominates Winchester Center’s landscape and is one of the most attractive public buildings in our region. The building was completely renovated in 1987. Many residents have commented on the scaffolding that is currently covering the clock tower. Following roofing and other exterior repairs to Town Hall, water infiltration was noticed in the tower. While the contractor was already mobilized, the Town had the work expanded to include re-pointing and other masonry repairs to the tower. This provided an opportunity to address the clock within the tower.

There are clock faces on each side of the tower and a large bell, all operated by a unique (and original) mechanical system. The Town is extremely fortunate to have a dedicated and competent citizen volunteer, Bradley Ross, who maintains the clock mechanics and ensures that they operate properly. Mr. Ross is truly an unsung hero of the Town of Winchester. Through the efforts of Mr. Ross and Claude Barden of the Department of Public Works, the clock faces and other components were repaired and protected from exposure to the weather. It is expected that the work will be completed and the scaffolding removed this month.

I am proud to work in this building and be a part of the team to keep it functioning as the seat of town government and the symbol of Winchester for many years to come.

For more information on the history of Town Hall, see Ellen Knight’s summary at http://www.winchester.us/ArchivalCenter/TownHall.html

Planning Revisited

2006-10-01T23:30:00.000-04:00

Last week began a new chapter in Winchester’s long history of community planning. The Town has restored a professional, in-house planning position with the arrival of Elizabeth (Betsy) Ware. Betsy will be working part-time as the Town Planner. She has twenty-five years of experience in planning and is familiar with our structure and process of government. The Town Planner position was restored following an intensive process of bringing together the elected Board of Selectmen and Planning Board under a Memorandum of Agreement. Essentially, the Agreement establishes a compromise by vesting policy authority with the Planning Board and administrative oversight and coordination with the Town Manager.

One only needs to look around Winchester to see the foresight and commitment to planning. Natural beauty and open spaces, well laid-out neighborhoods, a vibrant downtown, and fine public buildings are a testament to the public officials and citizens who developed master planning documents and zoning laws. In 2006 however, Winchester is being impacted by the forces of economics and environment. Historic and significant large parcels of land are being developed or redeveloped. Market forces and the attractiveness of Winchester have made residential development the most viable option, exacerbating the fiscal impact on our budget. Large scale development outside our borders has impacted the amount and intensity of storm runoff, creating flooding and degrading the quality of our water bodies.

The Town is responding with both short-term and long term measures. Longer term, the Planning Board has initiated an update of the Town’s Master Plan. This will build upon recent efforts of visioning and strategic planning. In addition, the Town’s zoning by-law document is in the process of being reorganized and updated, including the incorporation of modern “smart growth” techniques. In the short-term, the Town is addressing the zoning regulations for large land parcels, at the same time negotiating mitigation and other things of value to offset the impacts of development. These efforts bring challenges, including the ability to successfully engage the community and affected neighborhoods. I am hopeful that, with the arrival of our new Town Planner, this effort can be more coordinated and productive.

A Full Course Load

2006-09-21T08:38:00.000-04:00

Even though it has been years since I was in school, every September the same feelings of excitement and anticipation of a new academic year come back. Of course, having children of school age and living in a region that comes back to life as students return to college helps feed these emotions.

The business of town government also responds to the school calendar. The weeks after Labor Day bring a flurry of activity and a sense of urgency after the summer hiatus. While the work of town government continued throughout the summer, the pace is less hectic and the public’s focus on issues is far less intense as families are busy balancing their lives with vacation, camps and other summer pursuits.

Town government comes back to life quickly as boards and committees begin to meet regularly and the daily routines of families become centered on life in Winchester. Much of the work of our government at this time is geared towards preparing for the “midterm examination” that comes in early November- the Fall Town Meeting. Fall Town Meeting has become an important event as the Town’s capital plan is finalized and submitted for approval. The Capital Planning Committee is busy at work evaluating and prioritizing the many important capital projects for the Town’s buildings, facilities and infrastructure. The Fall Town Meeting is also a time to focus on the land use of the Town. This year, there are several land use projects that will impact the Town for many years to come. Incredibly, the two major parcels of precious agricultural land in Winchester are being pursued for private development at the same time- the Pansy Patch property on Cambridge Street and the Hamilton (Locke) Farm property on Ridge Street. If this wasn’t enough, other major parcels are being developed or redeveloped, including the former Immaculate Conception and GEI properties on North Main Street, the Washington Street property recently acquired by Winchester Hospital and the Shannon property off of Forest Street.

As always, financial and budgetary concerns are foremost on the Town’s agenda. Meeting the demands of providing essential public services in the Proposition 2½ era is challenging enough without the unprecedented growth in student enrollment, the spike in global energy costs and the budget busting effect of double digit increases in health care premiums for the Town’s valued employees. The Board of Selectmen has made the budget its highest priority and has instructed me to expedite the budget planning process in order to provide ample time to consider policy initiatives and creative solutions. To help facilitate this process, the Town has engaged the firm of Municipal Benchmarking, Inc. to produce a comprehensive set of revenue and expenditure data comparing Winchester with a group of 23 comparable communities. In addition, the Selectmen will lead a forum this fall to consider a number of budget ideas they generated throughout the summer that might assist the Town in meeting the budget challenge for Fiscal Year 2008 and beyond.

Finally, the Town has begun an aggressive public education and marketing campaign to encourage Winchester residents to recycle. In the current solid waste market, each ton of solid waste recycled will save the Town at least $75. We intend to engage the entire community- schools, civic groups and each resident to meet this important goal.

So, the school year has begun and we’ve taken on a full courseload. With hard work and support, I am confident that Winchester will make the grade!

Welcome to the Manager's Blog

2006-09-15T19:55:00.000-04:00

Welcome

This blog is intended to communicate timely and important information on town government issues, and to provide an insight into the Winchester community from the perspective of the Town Manager. This blog will be updated at least weekly, with more frequent posts as time permits or when events demand it.

At this time, no responses to the Blog will be allowed. As a result, I will attempt to limit personal opinions or positions on controversial public policy issues.

The Blog will be accessible daily at http://themanagersblog.blogspot.com/ or through a link from the Town's home page at www.winchester.us

Mel Kleckner is Winchester's fourth town manager, beginning service in December of 2004. He has a master's degree in public administration and over twenty-five years of experience in local government management.