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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOS MINUTES 7-15-1992BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES Of MEETING JULY 15, 1992 92 JUL 31 32 PRESENT: Chairman Tartufo; Selectmen Penney, Pasquale#,AC416111�i WR I s n; Town Manager 1. The meeting was called to order at 7:35 P.M. and the Flag saluted. The Chairman announced that the Concert on the Common has been moved to the High School cafeteria tonight due to rain. 2. Minutes of July 1, 1992 * MOTION: To approve the Minutes of July 1, 1992. Robinson /Colella VOTED: 4 -0 Pasquale abstained 3. Minutes of July 8, 1992 Workshop * MOTION: To approve the Workshop Minutes of July 8, 1992. Colella /Robinson VOTED: 5 -0 4. Warrant #56 and #4, 1992 * MOTION: To approve Warrant #56 in the amount of $215,659.14, dated June 30, 1992, broken down as follows: General Fund - $203,286.28 Special Revenue - 216.67 Capital Projects - 2,233.29 Sewer Expense - 8,352.91 Water Expense - 1,441.84 Electric Enterprise - 128.15 Colella /Robinson VOTED: 5 -0 * MOTION: To approve Warrant #4 in the amount of $3,108,921.00, dated July 14, 1992, broken down as follows: General Fund - $1,577,801.16 Special Revenue - 22,542.56 Capital Projects - 207,990.00 Sewer Expense - 5,772.00 Water Expense - 86,048.96 Electric Enterprise - 1,208,766.32 Robinson /Pasquale VOTED: 5 -0 5. Licenses & Permits a) Application for an Open Space Permit by Catherine E. Gray and Nancy Gray McNeeley, for parking cars at 888 South Main Street. The Clerk reviewed the site plan as approved for 75 spaces. Nancy Gray McNeeley was present and stated the conditions as required by the Zoning Enforce- BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF MEETING JULY 15, 1992 PAGE 2 ment Officer. She said they have put in sidewalks and pedestrian crossings, and they always have a paid 'detail'. She commended the police for the great job they have done for the past 21 years. Select- man Pasquale stated they have a very good process for handling the situation. * MOTION: To approve the permit. Pasquale /Robinson VOTED: 5 -0 Selectman Pasquale apologized for the confusion that happened last weekend. b) The Clerk read an example of a street "Order of Taking ", then the list of all streets to be so approved: Claire Ave. Jason Lane Hickory Terrace Eastbrook Road North White Pine Lane Marjac Way South White Pine Lane Victoria Lane Hampden Road Windsor Place Middlesex Road York Road Norfolk Street Hidden Lane Conrod Court Northridge Road Perkins Ave /Webster Street Extension Helena Circle Potash Road * MOTION: To approve the streets' "Order of Taking ". Pasquale /Robinson VOTED: 4 -0 Tartufo abstained 6. Correspondence a) Copy of Memorandum to the Town Manager from Health Agent, Scott Leite, re: Recycling Park: Medical Sharps. b) Notice of Bristol County Selectmen's Association Annual Clambake on Thursday, August 13th at Francis Farm in Rehoboth. c) Copy of letter to Bay State Gas Co. from Shaun Burke, Director of Plan- ning & Development, re: Installation of Gas Line Along Mill Street, a scenic way in Mansfield. d) Letter to the Board from Supt. of Schools, Richard Warren, re: Former Park Row School playground. - There was discussion as to who the playground equipment belongs to; Chairman Tartufo believes it is the School Department. Selectman Pasquale believes they want to turn it over to the Recreation Depart- ment. * MOTION: To direct the Tosco Manager to determine if the School Depart- ment does not want it and if the Recreation Department does. Pasquale /Penney BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF MEETING JULY 15, 1992 PAGE 3 Chairman Tartufo said he believes it is the responsibility of the School Department, not the Board. VOTED: 4 -1 Robinson opposed e) Copies of Cablevision Industries Quarterly Complaint & Significant Service Interruption forms for quarter ending June 30, 1992. f) Copy of letter to Dianne Royle, Chairwoman, Mansfield School Committee, from residents of Union and South Main Streets re: Proposed use of former Park Row School. g) Letter to the Board from Harold Blomberg, 19 Beach Street, Foxboro, re: Request for an officer at the North Common in the mornings. * MOTION: To refer to the Police Department. Pasquale /Colella VOTED: 5 -0 h) Letter to the Board from four (4) Maple Street Neighbors re: Extension of Joanna Drive. - Selectman Penney reported this will be discussed at the Selectmen Workshop next week. i) Copy of Memorandum to the Town Engineer, from Mansfield Planning Board re: Bay State Gas Work Along Mill Street, a Scenic Way. j) Copy of Memorandum to the Town Manager from Shaun Burke, Director of Planning & Development, re: Possible Use of SRPEDD to Study Land Use in the Great Woods Area. k) Letter to the Board from Jane R. Sheehan, 600 S. Main Street, re: Request to close Hall Street to through truck traffic. - The Town Manager reported that the Police Chief can post it, but it cannot be enforced unless the request goes through the usual State request. * MOTION: To post NO THROUGH TRUCKING. Colella /Robinson VOTED: 5 -0 1) Nineteen letters opposing LegoWorld: Richard P. Matta, 56 Southpark Lane Christopher Copley, 43 Southpark Lane Michael & Dana Morgan, 51 Southpark Lane Paul Russell, 47 Southpark Lane Beverly L. Garland, 277 Central Street Patricia Coyne, 135 Fruit Street Daniel Garland, P.O. Box 241 ` Frank S. Elchuck, 347 Oak Street Barry Bayon, 428 S. Main Street BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF MEETING JULY 15, 1992 PAGE 4 E.D. Seacord Beale, 14 Alder Road, Norton Katheryn P. Viens, 29 School Street David Bouchard, 80 Oak Street Mr. & Mrs. Robert Anton, 70 Oak Street Margaret E. Flannery, 159 Fruit Street James & Lorinda Catherwood, 511 S. Main Street Mary & Wayne DeLano, 475 S. Main Street Linda E. Chilson, 1815 West Street Janet McDermott, 17 Meadow Lane Bill & Joy Lee Eppes, 416 S. Main Street 7. Questions & Comments None 8. LegoWorld Presentation Brian Dacey and Rayna Rubins of John Drew Co., John Crowe and an assist- ant, and Joe Donovan representing the State were all present. Chairman Tartufo reviewed what has taken place to date, then turned the meeting over to the developers of the project who had aerial plans and overlays. Brian Dacey stated they are in the midst of a series of studies. Tonight's presentation is one of several steps in the process. He said the balance of the site is in Norton and commercially zoned, owned by Bay Bank. John Crowe showed road overlays with an alternative for Rt. 140 which would not be in residential or conservation areas. He said they are trying to keep the majority of the roadway in the industrial area. He mentioned the possibility of combining Mansfield and Norton open space. Water is avail- able from Norton, there is a sewer line along Rt. 140, an electric power estimate is not ascertained yet. Bruce Campbell of Bruce Campbell Associates discussed traffic patterns. They estimate 15,000 attendees, 4,000 cars, and 25% will stay overnight; most traffic will be counter -flow. He said there will be much less traf- fic from LegoWorld than there would have been for the plans of the pre- vious property owner, Mr. Kraska. Brian Dacey passed around a handout covering: Mansfield Land Use Goals, Utilities, Preliminary Traffic Estimates, Estimated Economic Impacts, and advised they expect to come back by the end of August to have all the elements of the plan in place. Joe Donovan, of Secretary Tocco's office, reported the Mass. DPW is close to turning over the land taken by the State to the Conservation Commission; the State is interested in moving the project ahead. He also mentioned the State's desire to preserve open space, and that the Executive Office of Communities and Development (EOCD) has been in touch with both towns (Mansfield and Norton) concerning grants for conservation purposes. He said the State is willing to give the land back but wants to retain a strip of land for future extension of Rt. 140. ` BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF MEETING JULY 15, 1992 PAGE 5 Selectman Pasquale questioned acquisition of parcels designated by stars on the map; he was told the State hopes to acquire them for conservation purposes. Selectman Pasquale also asked about use of the acres not used for LegoWorld; he was told Lego expects to use 120 acres with parking for 4,100 vehicles. Selectman Pasquale said he felt the entire 88 acres owed the Town of Mansfield should be returned, then the Town can decide whether it wants to give it back. Selectman Pasquale asked Brian Dacey what is in this for Mansfield; taxes, etc. will go to the Town of Norton? Brian men- tioned Mansfield hotels, and stated they would work with the Town to control ancillary development in both areas. Selectman Pasquale reported there is a tape provided by a West Bridgewater resident which was made of LegoWorld in Denmark. He thought it might be worthwhile for CableVision to run it. Selectman Penney suggested having an access road only into LegoWorld rather than alternating loops, etc. Chairman Tartufo expressed the desire for quality of life and economic issues to be ranked at the top of the list to be addressed; i.e., noise issues only coming from that area, traffic. He said if these issues are addressed, and addressed properly, there will be a more favorable response. Chairman Tartufo opened the meeting to the public. Representative Barbara ( Hyland reported a bill has been filed for the 88 acres to be returned to the Town of Mansfield, and Senator Keating is supporting it. The hearing date is not yet set. Joe Cashio, 26 Coach Road, said he would like to see the tape of Denmark's LegoWorld on local cable; he is interested in opinions from Denmark. He asked will there be a State Impact Study, noise restraints. He is also con- cerned about future development surrounding Lego land. Chairman Tartufo stated we should gain impressions from people in Denmark, and impact state- ments will have to be done. He advised of the letter to SRPEDD with a copy to the Town of Norton regarding development study of surrounding areas. James St.Don mentioned concern for dual traffic at the time of peak hour (7:30 P.M.) then Great Woods traffic is arriving. Colin Cauldwell stated it will destroy our quality of life. Another resident was interested in State revenue; he was advised 3 -4 million annually. Brian Kelly, a Norton resident addressed support of private owners to be able to do what they wish with their land; he said he believes compromise is the word. The ques- tion was asked as to who is going to pay for the State's development of roads, etc.; he was told Bay Bank, Lego and the John Drew Company are pay- ing for the studies. Ann Marie Kurko, President of Tri -Town Chamber of Commerce, stated the Chamber supports LegoWorld and asked those present to keep an open mind. She added that sooner or later the land will be sold by the bank. Peter DeTrolio, 496 Elm Street, said someone told him Lego wants utilities for nothing and are negotiating; Brian Dacey indicated that was misinformation. Peter also asked how the State can use taxpayer money to build a road to one facility? Kit Levitt of Fruit Street mentioned ancillary development, drug pushers and that pushers love children. She also stated eventually BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF MEETING JULY 15, 1992 PAGE 6 there will be loss of the wetlands. Selectman Pasquale asked her to join the Together We Can group, which is a drug prevention group. Barbara Bayon mentioned the major environmental impact LegoWorld would make and expressed concern for who is going to pay for improvements. Chairman Tartufo said Lego has said they will pay for improvements for leaving their site. Selectman Pasquale answered that many big companies ask the same thing, but they have to pay connecting fees, etc. Concern was expressed for traffic patterns. Heather Graf, Worcester Street in Norton, stated there is opposition in Norton also, and she compared the State not fixing the Gilbert Street bridge, but can build a new road. She mentioned many points which she considers more disturbing; i.e., would Lego build a manufacturing plant to build their blocks; why hasn't anyone from Lego headquarters in Connecticut ever come to a meeting? She asked where are the other two U.S. considered sites. Brian Dacey said he did not know. Bob Lynch, 382 Elm Street, advised a development of this type would keep kids off the streets by giving them jobs and money to go to college. Ralph Stefanelli, 12 James Street, Norton, said he had done his homework and was opposed. He said the zoning was determined by politicians, and called the Lego plan "political greed ". He said he is against it and cautioned people to look out for the best interests of the people. Other opinions expressed were: has any scientific study been made; inquiry about trees to be cut down. One Norton resident said she was against it, it will ruin their lives. John Davern of Union Street asked about type of jobs that will be available; he was told approximately 800. Chairman Tartufo asked Brian Dacey to ob- tain type of jobs and the income of the area surrounding the Denmark Lego park. One West Mansfield questioned disposal of Lego trash and the blocks themselves which do not last forever. Brian Butler, of Norfolk, Mass. com- mented he sees alot of similarity between Lego and the sludge plant being considered for Walpole. He said property taxes have dropped since discus- sion of the sludge plant. Christine Butler stated they are considering moving to Mansfield and find the prospect of Lego very scarey. Jane Sheehan of Hall Street, Mansfield, said she has lived in Mansfield 27 years and the Great Woods Performing Arts Center has made a tremendous impact on the south end of town. Chairman Tartufo stated again the reasons the Board has not yet made its decision. Selectman Robinson expressed concern about the mention of a sec- ond train station when MBTA said they couldn't provide it. He also had concern if the developer puts in hotels, as they will hurt those the town already has. He asked if an aerial plan could be provided for people to be able to look at in Town Hall. Selectman Colella repeated his opposition. Selectman Pasquale thanked everybody who showed up and Brian Dacey, Joe Donovan, etc.. He said this is a private development, not a public one. The project is 95% in the Town of Norton and the Towns have to wait for the MEPA report. He reminded everyone that at some point the subject land will be sold for some future use. BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF MEETING JULY 15, 1992 PAGE 7 The Town Manager observed that forums, such as this, are good for exchange and beneficial, and he has never seen a board so responsive and caring for input from the affected communities and residents. 9. The Town Manager had three items he asked the Board to take time to vote on due to time restrictions: * a) MOTION: To approve and sign the Municipal Strategic Planning Grant appli- cation, in the amount of $30,000, for a study of land use in the area of the Great Woods. Pasquale /Robinson VOTED: 5 -0 * b) MOTION: To approve and sign a proposed Application for an Executive Office of Communities and Development Municipal Incentive Aid Grant for a Regional Public Administration Specialist. Robinson /Penney VOTED: 5 -0 c) The Town Manager had received a letter from School Supt. Warren regarding the School Committee's request to be able to use the Park Rota School for storage of equipment until September 15th. * MOTION: To approve the School Committee request to use the Park Row School for storage until August 15, 1992. Pasquale /Colella VOTED: 5 -0 10. Old Business a) Selectman Colella mentioned concern about the problem with Great Woods and the June 26th concert, saying it was to have come before the Board tonight. Selectman Pasquale reported on a meeting this afternoon with himself, Bruce Montgomery, Police Chief Earls and the Town Manager. He explained that what happened was the result of a practical joke by mem- bers of the road crew. Great Woods had no knowledge of it, apologized and would have been willing to meet with the Board tonight; the meeting was postponed until July 29th. Police details were discussed; there will be no change. Selectman Colella said he has some problems he will bring up at the July 29th meeting. Selectman Pasquale requested anyone who has a prob- lem to discuss it with the liason first. 11. Adjournment * MOTION: To adjourn (at 12:15 A.M.) Pasquale /Colella p.- D VOTED: 5 -0 MINUTES APPROVED: �° 7� fl� ') /:;-,9 1/9 Z Clerk V_ /C_it1� des Date signed