HomeMy Public PortalAbout2015 Annual Watertown Report TOWN OF WATERTOWN
2015 ANNUAL REPORT
1630
The Town Seal
Designed by Charles Brigham,Architect
Story of the Watertown Seal
On the Watertown seal is a picture of an English Colonist and an Indian exchanging,as peace tokens,
bread for fish. Capt.Roger Clap,who landed at Nantusket Point in 1630,and rowed up Charles River to
Gerry' Landing with the first party of Watertown Colonists,records the following story of the trip:
"We went up Charles River until the river grew narrow and shallow,and there we landed our goods
with much labor and toil,the bank being steep and night coming on.
"We were informed that there were hard by us three hundred Indians. One Englishman that could
speak the Indian language(an old Planter)went to them and advised them not to come near us in the
night;and they harkened to his counsels,and came not,I myself was one of the sentinels that first night.
Our Captain was a Low Country soldier,one Mr.Southcot,a brave soldier.
"In the morning some of the Indians came and stood at a distance off,looking at us,but came not near
us;but when they had been a while in view,some of them came and held out a great Bass toward us;so
we sent a man with a Bisket,and changed the Cake for a Bass.Afterwards,they supplied us with Bass,
exchanging a Bass for a Bisket Cake,and were very friendly to us.
"O dear children! Forget not what care God had over his dear servants,to watch over and protect us
in our weak beginnings.Capt. Squeb turned ashore us and our goods,like a mercyless man,but God,
ever our mercyful God,took pity on us;so that we were supplied,first with a boat,and them caused
may Indians (some hundreds) to be ruled by the advice of one man not to come near us. Alas,had
they come,how soon might they have destroyed us!I think we were not above ten in number.But God
caused the Indians to help us with fish at very cheap rates."
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Town Officials and Committees
ElectedOfficials.........................................................................................................4
Boards and Commissions..............................................................................................5
DepartmentHeads......................................................................................................6
Reports of the Town Manager and Town Council
TownCouncil............................................................................................................7
TownManager...........................................................................................................8
Report of Town Finances
Board of Assessors.....................................................................................................11
Treasurer/Collector/Parking Clerk...................................................................................12
TownAuditor...........................................................................................................14
Reports of the Offices of Town Administration
PersonnelDepartment................................................................................................31
Town Clerk and Election..............................................................................................32
Information Technology Department..............................................................................33
TownAttorney.........................................................................................................34
PurchasingDepartment...............................................................................................35
HealthDepartment....................................................................................................36
Councilon Aging......................................................................................................41
Recreation Department...............................................................................................42
Watertown Free Public Library......................................................................................45
Veteran's Services......................................................................................................49
JohnA.Ryan Skating Arena..........................................................................................51
Department of Public Works...........................................................................................52
Reports of the Departments of Public Safety
Police.....................................................................................................................55
Fire.......................................................................................................................62
Emergency Management..............................................................................................65
Report of the Department of Community Development and Planning..............................67
Report of the Department of Public Schools.....................................................................76
VotingResults.................................................................................................................82
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ELECTED OFFICIALS
TOWN COUNCIL PRESIDENT &MEMBER OF THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE
Mark Sideris,30 Union Street#2 617-924-2699
COUNCIL AT LARGE
Stephen Corbett,14Irving Park 617-926-7872
Aaron P.Dushku, 10 Elmwood Avenue 413-320-1104
Susan G.Falkoff, 19 Oliver Street 617-924-5723
Anthony Palomba,40 Oakley Road 617-926-8560
DISTRICT A COUNCILLOR
Angeline B.Kounelis,55 Keenan Street#1 617-926-2352
DISTRICT B COUNCILLOR
Cecilia Lenk,81 Boyd Street 617-926-4081
DISTRICT C COUNCILLOR
Vincent J.Piccirilli,Jr.203 Orchard Street 617-924-0665
DISTRICT D COUNCILLOR
Kenneth M.Woodland,8 Gill Road 617-780-4426
SCHOOL COMMITTEE
Guido Guidotti, 11 Marshall Street 617-926-7443
John H.Portz,66 Robbins Road 617-924-1899
Elizabeth K.Yusem,57 Eliot Street 617-924-0860
Eileen Hsu-Balzer,897 Belmont Street 617-484-8077
Julie McMahon, 178 Boylston Street 617-924-5164
Michael K.Shepard,108 Summer Street 617-285-3820
LIBRARY TRUSTEE
Gracemarie V.LeBlanc,76 Emerson Road 617-924-9322
Raya Stern,207 Lexington Street 617-926-3609
Carol Tierney,35 Oliver Street 617-924-6547
Katherine H.Button,48 Edward Road 617-923-1840
Michael J.Hanlon,Jr.,231 Coolidge Avenue#408 617-924-7613
Timothy J.Tracy,92 Marshall Street 617-924-2770
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BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee Election Commissioners Cable Access Corporation
Janet Jameson B.Bonnie Baranowski Robert Kaprielian
Maria Saiz Christopher Dunn Shirley Lundberg
Natalie Truesdell Deborah R.Dugan Gerry Field
Sheila Fay Ilana Mainelli Michael Shepard
Ethan Davis John M.Airasian
Nicholas Cutaia Environment and Energy Efficiency Pamela Piantedosi
Michael Izzo Committee George Skuse
Andy Compagna Raeleen Parsons Kristina Fraser
Peter Keppler Stephane Acel-Green Toni Carlson
Meredith Fields
Board of Assessors Terese Hammerle Watertown Housing Authority
Francis J.Golden, Brian Hebeisen David Dalla Costa
Chairman,Town Assessor Lauri Murphy Allen Gallagher
Richard V.Moynihan Ken Mirvis Thomas Beggan
Anthony P.Paolillo Cynthia Galligan
Historical Commission
Board of Health J.B.Jones Watertown Housing Partnership
Dr.John H.Straus Marilynn Roach Torey Dean
Barbara D.Beck,Ph.D. David J.Russo,Jr. Gideon Schreiber,Senior Planner,
Richard Arnold Elisabeth H.Loukas Community Development and Planning
Susan Steele David Leon
Commission on Disability Donald S.Berg Judge Paul C.Menton
George Donahue Thomas Melone Brian Costello
Carol Menton Fred Reynolds
Megan S.O'Halloran Historic District Commission Clifford Cook
Judith T.Herzberg Harvey Steiner Steven Magoon,Community Development
Councillor Stephen P.Corbett Linda Sternberg and Planning Director/Assistant Town
Carol Wilson-Braun Carolyn Famiglietti Manager
Kim Charlson Kenneth Sheytanian
John B.Hawes,Jr. John Hecker Traffic Commission
Fred Isaacs Kelly Gallagher
Jean O'Connell Licensing Board John M.Airasian
Rachele Natale George Newman Chief Edward P.Deveau,Chair,Police
Donna B.Doucette Department
Conservation Commission Robert J.Whitney Gerald S.Mee,Jr.,Superintendent of
Leo G.Martin Public Works
Marylouise Pallotta McDermott Alternate Member Chief Mario A.Orangio,Fire Department
Maria P.Rose Sandra Hoffman Steven Magoon,Community Development
Louis Taverna and Planning Director/Assistant Town
Charles Bering Planning Board Manager
Patrick Fairbairn Neal Corbett
Linda Tuttle-Barletta Zoning Board of Appeals
Council on Aging Fergal Brennock Christopher Heep
Mary T.Keenan Jeffrey W.Brown David Ferris
Patricia Gold John B.Hawes Melissa Santucci
Bertha A.Anderson John Gannon
Genevieve(V.V.)Martin Stormwater Advisory Committee Kelly Donato
Dorothy Brown Anita Roy Dobbs
Carol Airasian Nancy Hammett Board of Appeals Alternate Member
Burton L.Greenberg Ernesta Kraczkiewicz Neeraj Chander
Alice C.Wadden Planning Department Jason D.Cohen
Linda R.Moffitt Department of Public Works
Christopher Hayward
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DEPARTMENT HEADS
Daniel F. Brothers, Skating Arena Manager
Peter Centola, Recreation Department Director
Leone E. Cole, Library Director
Mark R. Comeiro, Veterans' Services Officer
Edward P. Deveau, Chief of Police
Joseph A. DiVito, Jr., Treasurer/Collector
Raymond J. Dupuis, Provisional Police Chief
Jean Fitzgerald, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools
John E. Flynn, Town Clerk
Caryl L. Fox, Director, Council on Aging
Francis J. Golden, Chairman, Board of Assessor
Steven Magoon, Community Development and Planning Director/
Assistant Town Manager
Joseph J. Mahoney, Information Technology Manager
Phyllis L. Marshall, Town Treasurer/Collector
Gerald S. Mee, Jr., Superintendent of Public Works
Mario A. Orangio, Fire Chief
Raeleen Parsons, Purchasing Agent
Deborah M. Rosati, Director of Public Health
Gayle M. Shattuck, Personnel Director
Thomas J. Tracy, Town Auditor/Asst. Town Manager for Finance
REPORT OF THE TOWN COU NCI L
A Report to the Residents of Watertown Rutland St,Evans St.,Boylston St.,and Nichols Ave.
The nine members of the Town Council of the City known as the .April 28,2015:The Town Council approved a Loan Order for
Town of Watertown are elected biennially,in odd numbered years, water main replacement on Edenfield Ave.and Hovey St.
to serve as the legislative branch of the Town's government.The .June 9,2015:The Town Council approved the Fiscal Year 2016
elected members consist of four(4)District Councilors,four(4) Budget for an amount of$119,115,250.
Councilors at Large and a Town Council President who is elected
by the at large population.Their principal functions are to set •June 9,2015:The Town Council approved Loan Orders for
policy for the administration of the Town,its general government, Capital Improvements and the construction and improvement of
and programs;to adopt an operating budget on recommendations streets and sidewalks.
by the Town Manager;and to serve as overseers of the various
municipal government agencies.The Town Council in calendar •June 23,2015:The Town Council adopted the Comprehensive
year 2015 has been actively engaged in the performance of its Plan
responsibilities as elected representatives of Watertown's residents. .June 30,2015:The Town Council adopted the Design Guideline
and Standards.
Council Membership
District Councilors: •September 22,2015:The Town Council adopted the Bring Your
District A Councilor Angeline B.Kounelis Own Bottle Ordinance for local restaurants.
District B Councilor Cecilia Lenk
District C Councilor Vincent J.Piccirilli,Jr. The Town Council,through its subcommittees,continued its work
District D Councilor Kenneth M.Woodland on the following matters:the development of the Fiscal Year 2017
budget;improvements to streets,sidewalks and planting strips;
Councilors at Large: continued discussions on the Capital Improvement Program
Stephen P.Corbett,Vice President 2016-2020;and disposition of branch libraries.
Aaron Dushku
Susan G.Falkoff Acknowledgments
Anthony Palomba
The Town Council,individually and collectively gratefully
Town Council President: acknowledge those who have helped in the fulfillment of its
Mark S.Sideris mission to serve the people of the City known as the Town of
Watertown.We are especially grateful to the Town Manager
Town Council Cleric: who continues to provide guidance and assistance with the fiscal
Valerie Papas responsibility,budgetary process,and management of the day-to-
day operations of the town.
Highlights of 2015
We also acknowledge with thanks and respect the efforts of
The Town Council voted on the following matters to provide the each and every Town employee in every department,along with
optimal level of services for the citizens of Watertown: those members who serve on elected and appointed boards,
commissions,and committees.Their commitment to public
•March 24,2015:The Town Council voted to update the Open service is recognized with pride and gratitude.
Space and Recreation Plan.
To each and every one of the merchants and businesses in our
.April 7,2015:The Town Council voted to regulate the size of great community,we thank you for your diligence,patience and
Hotel and Motel signs in the Watertown Zoning Ordinance. support.Building a foundation through your professional and
cooperative efforts has resulted in quality services that residents
•April 14,2015:The Town Council approved a Loan Order and visitors continue to enjoy.
to replace flooring at the Watertown Middle School and the
purchase and installation of unit ventilators at the Hosmer School. Our commitment to the citizens of our Town remains constant.
Because you have entrusted us as your public servants with your
•April 28,2015:The Town Council approved a Loan Order to continued support and input,we would like to especially extend
repair the roofing of the Administration Building and the North Fire Station. our heart felt gratitude to all residents for making Watertown your
home.
•April 28,2015:The Town Council approved a Loan Order
for infiltration projects on Prescott St.,Gilbert St.,Edward Rd., Mark S.Sideris,Council President
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REPORT OF THE TOWN MANAGER
To the Honorable Town Council, Residents, and Taxpayers of Watertown:
On behalf of the City known as the Town of Watertown,its regulations and Board of Health policies.
employees,and the distinguished members of the Town Council,
I am pleased to present to you the Town of Watertown's Annual Veterans'Services Officer Appointed—I am pleased to announce
Report for the calendar year beginning January 1,2015 and the appointment of Mark R.Comeiro to the position of Veterans'
ending December 31,2015.I believe you will find this annual Services Officer,effective February 23,2015.Mr.Comeiro has
report both interesting and informative as it recapitulates the twenty years of experience in the United States Navy and has
accomplishments and achievements of the Town for the stated served in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation
period. Iraqi Freedom.As outlined above,Mr.Comeiro's previous duties
and educational background have provided him with operational
I am pleased to report that the Executive and Legislative branches experience in administration,record keeping and confidentiality
of town government working in tandem,have successfully of soldier's concerns and problems,as well as a thorough
managed and maintained a wide array of municipal services knowledge of policies and procedures in various settings.In his
while maintaining fiscal discipline.The successes have been made role as Veterans'Services Officer,Mr.Comeiro will be responsible
through a commitment to leverage both outside funding sources for oversight of services to Watertown Veterans and their
(federal,state and private)and town funds to improve the quality dependents.
of life and vibrancy of this community.
Fire Vehicle Maintenance—In February 2015,the Honorable
The Watertown economy continues to weather the difficult and Town Council approved a Transfer of Funds in the amount of
slow recovery of the global,national and state economies,and $6,000 for emergency repairs of Fire Engine 1.
local restraint must be maintained in order that the delivery of
local services enjoyed today are not eroded as we move forward. Core Program Statement of Interest to the Massachusetts School
Throughout this report the reader will find detailed narratives Building Authority.In March 2015,the Honorable Town Council
discussing programs that meet this criteria.The selection below voted to authorize the Superintendent of Schools to submit to the
highlights some of the particularly noteworthy achievements of Massachusetts School Building Authority a Statement of Interest,
2015. Core Program Request for Watertown High School.
Accelerated Repair Program Statement of Interest to the Veterans'Services Department Extension of Normal Working
Massachusetts School Building Authority-In February 2015, Hours—Effective March 10,2015,the Veterans Office will extend
the Honorable Town Council approved the submittal of an hours to Tuesday evening until 7 PM,consistent with the hours
application request from Dr.Jean Fitzgerald,Superintendent of operation for the Assessors,Health,Town Clerk and Treasurer/
of Schools to the Massachusetts Building Authority for the Collector offices.
Watertown Municipal Accelerated Roof Repair Program.The
Accelerated Repair in question is the replacement of windows at Snow and Ice Removal Deficit-In April 2015,the Honorable
the Middle School and this project is listed in Fiscal Year 2016 of Town Council approved a Transfer of Funds in the amount of
the Fiscal Year 2016-2020 Capital Improvement Program which $1,041,518 in order to fund the Snow and Ice Removal Deficit.
was submitted on January 30,2015.
Improvements approved for the Watertown Middle and Hosmer
Resolution Approving Excess Expenditures for Snow and Ice Schools-In April 2015,the Honorable Town Council voted to
Removal-In February 2015,the Honorable Town Council approve a Loan Order of in the amount of$770,000 for the costs
approved a resolution regarding excess expenditures for snow and of flooring replacement at the Watertown Middle School,and for
ice removal pursuant to Chapter 44,Section 31D,Massachusetts purchasing and installing unit ventilators at the Hosmer School.
General Laws.
Acceptance of a Tangible Gift-In April 2015,the Honorable
Health Director Appointed-I am pleased to announce the Town Council accepted a gift of an automatic external defibrillator
appointment of Deborah M.Rosati to the position of Director for the Watertown Police Department,generously donated from
of Public Health effective February 23,2015.With Ms.Rosati's Sunbeam Television Corporation,local affiliate WHDH Channel
extensive experience and educational background,she will be 7 Boston,partnered with Zoll Medical Corporation in light of
able to enhance the Health Department's delivery of services the second anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombings and
including the assessment of community public health needs to subsequent events in Watertown on April 18 and 19,2013.
determine program development;coordination of environmental
health services and health education programs;as well as ensuring Improvements approved for the Administration and North Fire
compliance with mandates of federal,state and local ordinances, Station Buildings—In April 2015,the Honorable Town Council
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voted to approve a Loan Order in the amount of$262,800 for the a Transfer of Funds in the amount of$500,000 to the Capital
costs of repairing the roofs of the Administration and North Fire Projects Stabilization Fund Account in order to continue the
Station Buildings. annual transfer of$500,000 from the Capital Stabilization Fund
through Fiscal Year 2018 to support Capital Projects.
In Projects-In April 2015,the Honorable Town
Council voted to approve a Loan Order in the amount of$530,000 Parking at Property Located at 631 Mount Auburn Street-In
for the costs of infiltration/inflow projects at various locations in June 2015,the Honorable Town Council approved an Order
the Town including Prescott Street,Gilbert Street,Edward Road, relative to a License Agreement for Parking at Property Located
Rutland Street and Evans Street,Boylston Street and Nichols at 631 Mount Auburn Street and Authorizing the Town Manager
Avenue. to Execute an Amendment to the License Agreement and an
Authorization Letter to Citizens Bank,N.A.
Water Main Replacement-In April 2015,the Honorable Town
Council voted to approve a Loan Order in the amount of$900,000 ESCO Capital Project Stabilization Fund-In July 2015,the
for the costs of water main replacement on Edenfield Avenue and Honorable Town Council approved a Resolution authorizing a
Hovey Street. Transfer of Funds in the amount of$203,214 to the ESCO Capital
Project Stabilization Fund Account.
Agreement Reached with the Watertown Police Supervisors
Association,MCOP,Local 373-In June 2015,the Honorable John A.Ryan Skating Arena-In July 2015,the Honorable Town
Town Council approved a transfer in order to fund an Agreement Council approved a Resolution authorizing a Transfer of Funds in
with the Watertown Police Supervisors Association,MCOP,Local the amount of$85,000 to the Town Capital Projects Account in
373 covering the period of July 1,2013-June 30,2016 order to move forward with the replacement of the Skating Rink
fire alarm system.
Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force(OCDETF)
Lease Revolving Fund-In June,2015,the Honorable Town Replacement Purchase of a Police Department Vehicle-In
Council voted a spending limit of$1,725,000 for FY2016. July 2015,the Honorable Town Council approved a Resolution
These expenditures are reimbursed to the Town by the Federal authorizing a Transfer of Funds in the amount of$20,500 for
Government on a monthly basis.The operations of the OCDETF police vehicle replacement.
benefits the Town in providing specialized training and support
for the Watertown Police Department as well as providing an Police Chief Edward Deveau Retires-In July 2015,Chief Deveau
additional level of protection for the Town's residents. announced his retirement plans as the Chief of the Watertown
Police Department after serving the community for 33 years,
Departmental Equipment-In June 2015,the Honorable Town 14 of those years he served as Police Chief.The Watertown
Council voted to approve a Loan Order in the amount of Police Department is dedicated to serving the community by
$1,659,000,for the costs of the following items of departmental protecting life and property.When referring to the department's
equipment,as fully described in the Town's Fiscal Years 2013 accomplishments,Chief Deveau says:"We have the best Police
through 2015 Capital Improvement Plan:Public Works Various Department in Massachusetts,we have one of the most highly
Vehicles;Fire Emergency Ambulance;Water Enterprise Box trained personnel,and we are exceptional,not only in the
Truck;Police Microwave Radio Link and Computers;and Library Commonwealth but nationally!"I couldn't agree with him more.
Radio Frequency ID System.
Police Chief Selection Process-In August 2015,Captain
Construction and Reconstruction of Streets and Sidewalks, Raymond J.Dupuis was appointed as the Provisional Police Chief
including Underground Duct/Conduit Improvements-In June until such time a permanent Chief is selected in accordance with
2015,the Honorable Town Council voted to approve a Loan Human Services Division,Civil Service Unit processes.
Order in the amount of$2,800,000 for the costs of construction
and reconstruction of streets and sidewalks,including Agreement Reached with the Watertown Firefighters,IAFF
underground duct/conduit improvements. Local 1347-In September 2015,the Honorable Town Council
approved a transfer in order to fund a stipulated Massachusetts
Third Party Review of the School Department-In June 2015, Joint Labor-Management Committee Award on the terms set
the Honorable Town Council approved a Transfer of Funds in the forth in the Memorandum of Agreement with the Watertown
amount of$52,500 in order to move forward with a Third Party Firefighters,IAFF Local 1347 covering a period of seven years,
Review of the School Department. July 1,2009 through June 30,2016.
Collective Bargaining Stabilization Fund-In June 2015,the Police Chief Assessment Center-In September 2015,the
Honorable Town Council approved a Resolution authorizing a Honorable Town Council approved a Resolution authorizing
Transfer of Funds in the amount of$1,200,000 from various Fiscal a Transfer of Funds in the amount of$8,500 in order to move
Year 2015 accounts to the Fiscal Year 2015 Collective Bargaining forward with the Police Chief Assessment Center with Public
Stabilization Fund Account. Safety Consultants,LLC.
Capital Projects Stabilization Fund Account-In June 2015,the Schematic Design Study Approved for the Watertown Middle
Honorable Town Council approved a Resolution authorizing School-In November 2015,the Honorable Town Council voted
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to approve a Loan Order in the amount of$224,400 for the costs Joyce was very active in her beloved community of Watertown
of conducting a schematic design study for a potential partial where she raised her cherished family.Joyce's years of dedicated
window/door replacement project at the Watertown Middle service to the Town included volunteering her talents to countless
School,located at 68 Waverly Avenue,Watertown. community events and appointments to Town Committees,such
as:Chairperson,Watertown Housing Board of Commissioners
Acceptance and Expenditure of a Gift of Funds-In November from 1994 until her retirement in 2014;4"of July Miss
2015,the Honorable Town Council accepted a gift in the amount Watertown Pageant;Town Election worker;Inaugurations for
of$2,970 from the Watertown Police Foundation which will be Elected Officials;350 and 375 Anniversary of Watertown and
used to purchase ten two-way portable radios for communication Millennium Committees;Wedding Fair and Fashion Shows at the
purposes in the event of an emergency at any of the Public Commanders Mansion;9/11 Remembrance Observances;and the
Schools. Faire on the Square Apple Pie Contest.
Cable Television Renewal License with Comcast of The Watertown Community lovingly pauses to take note of her
Massachusetts—In December 2015,the Town renewed its License service and many contributions that truly benefited the Town
Agreement with Comcast of Massachusetts for a ten year term through the years.
from October 25,2015 through October 14,2025.
What has been highlighted is only a sampling of the breadth
Town Treasurer/Collector Appointed—I am pleased to announce and width of the Town's activities during 2015.I urge you to
the appointment of Joseph A.DiVito,Jr.to the position of Town peruse this Annual Report to gain better insight into the myriad
Treasurer/Collector effective December 7,2015.After serving as of activities of the various Town departments.I would like to
Assistant Assessor for the Town of Cohasset,Mr.DiVito joined take this opportunity to thank the residents of Watertown,its
the Watertown finance team in 1993 as Chairman of the Board employees and the distinguished members of the Honorable
of Assessors and served in that capacity until 1999.Mr.DiVito Town Council for their dedication and commitment to keeping
left Watertown to become a Treasurer/Collector and served more Watertown a fiscally sound community striving to provide
than seven years as Treasurer/Collector for the Towns of Cohasset the highest level of services to the citizens of Watertown while
and Hull.With Mr.DiVito's extensive experience and educational utilizing the taxpayers'dollars efficiently.
background,he will be able to greatly assist the Administration
by enhancing the Treasurer/Collector's office delivery of service, Sincerely,
addressing overall Financial Management Recommendations
and any Management Letter Recommendations,and once again Michael J.Driscoll
serving as a member of the finance team. Town Manager
Town mourns the passing and celebrates the life of E.Joyce
Munger-I would be most remiss if I did not mention the sad
passing of Mrs.E.Joyce Munger on August 9,2015.
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BOARD OF ASSESSORS
In 2015,the Assessing Department in residential apartment buildings on produce 73%of the new growth,
continued to work toward the mission of Pleasant Street and Stanley Avenue.The condominium,multi-family apartments,
providing fair and equitable assessment for town wide residential class appreciated single family,and two and three family
all Watertown taxpayers. from calendar year 2013 into 2014,as respectively contributed.Personal Property
a result of the progress associated with produced 12%and the Commercial and
The Assessors over the course of the the ongoing apartment developments. Industrial combined was 15%of the
calendar year began year two of a new This appreciation within the residential $2,115,874 certified.The new apartment
re-assessment program of residential apartment class(Use 112:9 units or buildings on Pleasant Street,Stanley
property.This program involves an greater)will continue to grow with the Avenue,and Summer Street were the
extensive town wide measure and list completion of Summer Street. driving contributors in the town exceeding
of all residential property.The office two million in new growth for the second
effectively listed 3000 properties over the Commercial,Industrial and Personal consecutive Fiscal Year.
past two calendar years and will continue Property(CIP)values are stable town
to maintain this number annually over wide.The 2013 sales of the Arsenal on While Residential taxpayers are paying
the next four year period to maintain the the Charles,Arsenal Mall and associated a much lower tax rate than commercial
required cyclical standard.From early parcels have the Board of Assessors taxpayers,they are also eligible to receive
March to end of June the residential, intrigued with the future development the residential tax exemption worth
commercial and industrial permits were of that area.Commercial land values $1,357.63 in tax dollars.For Fiscal Year
collected by the office through a percent have increased due to the numerous high 2015,6058 residential taxpayers received
complete ending June 30,2014 for Fiscal sales prices that have occurred in the the exemption out of 9,794 residential
Year 2015 new growth. Arsenal Market area.Personal Property properties.In addition,there are a number
new growth dropped 25%from$338,779 of statutory exemptions that are available
The Fiscal Year 2015 Interim year to$258,964 for Fiscal Year 2015.The to certain qualifying taxpayers:All of
valuation was based on the last six months drop in Personal Property new growth is these exemptions are at their maximum
of calendar year 2012,all of calendar year attributed to less machinery coming on allowable amounts under the law:
2013,and the first six months of 2014.A line.The Board of Assessors expects the
statistical submission is entered in early Personal Property new growth to return Clause
fall into the Department of Revenues to more historic averages in the next year's 22 10%(or greater)
Branch of Local Assessment,which is revaluation.The successful renovation Disabled Veteran $800
then reviewed by sales data for residential, of the old Boston Biomedical site to
commercial,and industrial uses.The data Riverworks Watertown Holdings along 22E 100%Disabled
for each use would only exceed calendar Pleasant and Bridge Street alone will bring Veteran $2,000
year 2013,when the specific use does not much needed Personal Property growth
have at least a 2%sample of arm's length for Fiscal Year 2016.The vacancy droped 17D Surviving Spouse/minor
sales respectively. dramatically at this site over calendar year Child or Elderly Person $350
2014 as a result of Farley White's successful
Over the past year,residential values have marketing and resale of the properties 37A Blind Person $1,000
begun to appreciate with revaluation fueling commercial growth with a variety
increases occurring in most of our of new tenants. 41C Qualified Senior
residential uses town wide.The primary Citizen(65+) $1,000
assessment increases have occurred Fiscal year 2015 saw the residential
Fiscal Year 2014 2015
(07/01/13-06/30/14) (07/01/14-06/30/15)
Tax Rates:
Residential $14.96 $15.03
Commercial $27.96 $27.87
Industrial $27.96 $27.87
Personal Property $27.96 $27.87
Residential Exemption $1,277.75 $1,357.63
Valuations:
Residential $4,170,633,977 $4,423,338,299
Commercial $642,960,426 $676,501,794
Industrial $254,539,180 $243,245,590
Personal Property $98,941,639 $101,086,640
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TREASURER/COLLECTOR/PARKING CLERK
DEPARTMENT
This Report on the Treasurer/Collector/ The Town Council approved Loan and sidewalk improvements including
Parking Clerk Office covers Fiscal Year Order 2015-35 on June 23,2015 which underground duct/conduit.
2014,from July 1,2014 to June 30, authorized the Treasurer to borrow
2015.Schedules of Selected Financial $1,659,000 for various departmental While the above loan orders were
Information,Major Categories of Receipts, equipment including$1,088,000 for DPW approved,there was no need for any long
and Debt Principal and Interest are shown. vehicles,$235,000 for an Emergency term borrowing in Fiscal Year 2015.
Ambulance,$160,000 for a Water
During FY 2015 bond principal payments Division Box Truck,$111,000 for a Police Watertown continues to have a high rate
were$5,802,020 and long-term interest Microwave Radio Link and Computers of Real Estate Tax collections.The rate of
payments were$1,837,114. and$65,000 for a Library Radio Frequency collection for FY 2015 Property Taxes,as
ID system.Also,on June 23,2013,the of June 30,2015 remained very strong at
Total debt principal balance was Town Council approved a Loan Order 98.5%.
$38,915,480 as of June 30,2015. 2015-36 to borrow$2,800,000 for road
As of June 30,2015 the following FY 2015 taxes and user charges were unpaid:
Real Estate $ 1,227,927
Personal Property $ 84,781
Motor Vehicle $ 320,926
Boat $0
Water $407,045
Sewer $696,802
Commercial Refuse $0
FY 2015 Selected Financial Information
July 01, 2014-June 30,2015 FY 15
OTHER INTEREST
FUNDS
Late Payments $224,199
Brought Forward(July 01,2014) $54,044,461 TOTAL $224,199
Cash Received $ 139,151,397
Cash Paid Out $ 141,133,428
Ending Balance(June 30,2015) $52,062,430 TAX TITLES
Brought Forward(July 01,2014) $325,502
CASH MANAGEMENT Tax Takings $232,998
Subsequent Taxes $234,326
Interest Income $ 51,363 Abatement and Void $0
Short-Term Interest Paid $0 Redemptions $235,216
Net $51,363 Ending Balance(June 30,2015) $557,590
12
MAJOR CATEGORIES OF RECEIPTS FY 14
Property/Excise Taxes $89,593,310
Intergovernmental $ 11,430,765
Water/Sewer $15,477,256
Department $1,598,363
Interest Earnings $51,363
Parking Fines $458,164
Parking Meters $373,617
License and Permits $2,643,612
Payments in Lieu of Taxes $866,880
Penalty Interest&Costs $224,199
Meals Tax $505,207
TRUST FUND ACCOUNT FY 2015 BALANCE
PANE SCHOLARSHIP 12,145.88 E.M.O'REILLY 7,148.79
KAVENY 30,058.54 A.L.TIMER 580.92
CF BROWN,JR 3,316.39 DRUCKER FUND 2„274.62
M.D.EMERSON 6,541.06
M.P.CHARLES 2,023.84 GROUP TOTALS 1,353,804.41
BARRY 13,679.12
B.H.PIERCE 1,724.28 STABILIZATION FUND 1,233,652.46
W.E MCGUIRE 2,714.38 NESW STABILIZATION FUND 2,010,667.72
S.F.WHITNEY 2,893.75 OPEB STABILIZATION FUND 1,083,311.05
M SANGER 332.06 COLLECTIVE BARGAINING 1,709,184.20
L.B.HOWARD 3,578.58 CHARLES BURKE GIFT FUND 26,953.87
C.C.WHEELER 2,568.37 CAMBRIDGE TRUST-UPIT SCHOOL 231,728.51
TEMPLETON 19,412.78 PENSION 1,263,866.51
CEMETERY PERPETUAL 996,619.60 LAW ENFORCEMENT-FEDERAL ESCO 35,983.85
CONSERVATION 102,477.15 COMBINED LIBRARY TRUST 3,072.58
ASA PRATT 55,949.20
J SANTORO ART 1,747.59 ASA PRATT STOCK 2,272 SHARES 38,669.44
DONOVAN LEGACY 5,431.70
CANALONGA 5,074.97
MACDONALD 7,810.48
W.T.PIERCE 25,400.93
L.E.MASTERS 3,448.76
POTTER MEMORIAL 2,685.00
R.V KEITH 3,297.41
W.C.CAMPBELL 4,645.84
A.W.STONE 1,404.31
SPEC GIFTS 28,818.10
13
TOWN AUDITOR
SCHEDULE A
Part I General Fund Revenues and Other Financing Sources(Fund 01)
Fiscal Year 2015
WATERTOWN
City 1 Town I District
Account Number Item Description Amount
A.Taxes
4110 Personal Property Taxes 2.759,886
4120 Real Estate Taxes 83,013,624
4150 Cxcise Taxes 4,076,e12
4179 Penalties and Interest 224,399
4180 In Lieu of Taxes 866,880
4191 Other Taxes-Hotel/Motel 69,885
4198 Urban Redevelopment Excises
4199 Other Taxes 505,247
A.TOTAL TAXES(NET OF REFUNDS) 91,516,833
B.Charges for Services/Other Departmental Revenues
4211 Water Charges
4212 Other Utility Charges
4229 Other Charges
4243 Parking Charges
4244 Park and Recreation Charges 447,138
4246 Sewerage Charges
4247 Trash Collection Charges 19,052
4248 Transit Charges
4370 Other Department Revenue 3,766,926
B.TOTAL CHARGES FOR SERVICESIOTHER DEPARTMENTAL REVENUES 4,233,116
C.Licenses.Permits and Fees
4322 trees Retained from Tax Collection
4400 Licenses and Permits 222,136
14
C.TOTAL LICENSES,PERMITS AND FEES 222,1361
D.Federal Revenue
4540 Unrestricted-Direct
I 4580 Unrestricted-Through the State
D.TOTAL FEDERAL REVENUE
E.Revenues From State
4600 State Revenue 11,430,765 1
E.TOTAL REVENUES FROM STATE 11,430,765
F.Revenues From Other Governments
4695 Court Fines
4720 Received From the County for Services Performed
4730 Received From Other Municipalities for Services Performed 62.177 1
F.TOTAL REVENUES FROM OTHER GOVERNMENTS 62,177
G.Special Assessments
4750 Special Assessments
G.TOTAL SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS
H.Fines.and Foreeitures
4770 Fines and Forfeitures 697,8061
H.TOTAL FINES,AND FORFEITURES $97,806
1.Miscellaneous Revenues
4800 Miscellaneous Revenues 602,725
4820 Earnings on Investments 51,363
1.TOTAL MISCELLANEOUS REVENUES 654,088
TOTAL GENERAL FUND REVENUES 108,816,921
J.Other Financing Sources
4990 Other Financing Sources
J.TOTAL OTHER FINANCING SOURCES
TOTAL GENERAL FUND REVENUES AND OTHER FINANCING SOURCES 108,816,921
K.Interfund Oooratino Transfers
1 4972 Transfers from Special Revenue Funds 375,000
4973 Transfers from Capital Projects Funds
4975 Transfers from Enterprise Funds 2,770,176
4976 Transfers from Trust Funds 1,278,651
4977 Transfers from Agency Funds
K.TOTAL 1NTERFUND OPERATING TRANSFERS 4,423,827
TOTAL GENERAL FUND REVENUES,OTHER FINANCING SOURCES,AND 113,240,748
[NTERFUND OPERATING TRANSFERS
SCHEDULEA
Part 11 General Fund Expenditures and Other Financing Uses(Fund 01)
Fiscal Year 2015
WATERTOWN
City I Town I DTs 0
General Govemment HOD)
Aa- Item Leg,sla6ve Executive Aeeo ./ Colk-r Tna - Law pudic Assessors Op-do- Ucenso and land Use C..-lon Othor
Number D-s p6on Auditor Department Balding/ Support Roglaba6on Commission
Town/City Proportips
C--w Malnemanea
5100 Salary and Wages 81,980 283,465 318,220 227,434 59,578 266.050 195,232 199,393 1,323,098
5700 Expenditures 24.361 11,818 49,296 26,279 218,800 188,739 56,650 348,561 3,736 291,462
5800A Construction
58006 Capital Outlay 3,82D 49,926 16,965
TOTAL 106,141 295,283 367,616 263,713 219,800 262,137 322,700 593,739 203,129 1,631,526
Public Safety 12001
Acceum xem Pollee Fire Em.U-y Inspoctlon ON r
Noma, Deomipo- Medical
Sorvlecs
5100 Salary and Wages 7.387.310 7,248,753 2,5D0
5700 Expenditu- 491,419 289,470 17,088
5800A Construction
58008 Capital Outlay 183.715 1D4,458
TOTAL 8,062.444 7,642,681 19,588
16
Education(300)
Account Item Education Regional Regional Regional Regional
Number Description School School School School
Assessment Assessment Assessment Assessment
1 2 3 4
5100 Salary and Wages 29,773,082
5700 Expenditures 9,120,816
5800A Construction
5800B Capital Outlay 337,777
TOTAL 39,231,57S
Public Works(4001
Account Item Highway I Highway! Waste Sewer Water Parking Street Other
Number Description streets Steets Other Collection Collection Distribution Garage Lighting
Snow and and and
Ice Disposal Disposal
5100 Salary and Wages 284,597 945,283 1,178,527
5700 Expenditures 1,749,438 536,043 2,641,446 216,717 1,433,763I
5800A Construction
5800B CapitalOuttay 66,159 17,288 78,325
TOTAL. 2,100,194 1,498,614 2,641,446 216,717 2,688,616
Human Services(5001
Account Item Health Clinical Special Veterans Other
Number Description Services Services Program Services
5100 Salary and Wages 413,735 46,693 185,266
5700 Expenditures 82,798 162,101 36,635
5800A Construction
5800B Capital Outlay 2,300
TOTAL 476,533 209,794 224,201
17
99Culture and Recreation f6001
I Account Item Library Recreation Parks Historical Celebrations Other
IiS Number Descrfptlon Commission
5100 Salary and Wages 1,782,046 426,650
5700 Expenditures 686,641 16D,276
5800A Construction
5800E Capital Outlay 14,000 5,500
TOTAL 2,482,687 592,426
Debt Service M01
Account Item Retirement Interest on Interest on Other
Number Description of Debt Long Tenn Short Term Interogt
Principal Debt Debt
5900 Debt Service 4,892,000 1,275,761
TOTAL 4,392,000 1,275,761
Unclassified 1900)
Account Item Worker. unemployme Health Other Court Other Intergovemm Retioement Other
Number Description compernatio M Insurance Employoo Judgements Insuranco ontal
Benefits Assessments
0001 Unclassified 424,527 3,514 11,248,314 1,160,435 8,325 418,433 2,443,484 12,266,450 3,500
TOTAL 424,527 3,514 11,248,314 1,160,436 8,325 418,433 2,443,484 12,266,450 3,500
Transfers/Other Financina Uses f00011
Account It..
Number Description
5960 Transfers to Other Funds 4,514,4671
5990 Other Financing Uses 1,326,027
TOTAL 5,840,494
SCHEDULEA
Part III Special Revenue Funds and Expenditures
Fiscal Year 2015
WATERTOWN
CityI Tom I District
Federal Grams(FGM
Acc*""1 hem General Public Public Education FEMA Culture Community Other Housing Other Total
Number Description Government Safety Works and Development and Urban
Recreation Block Development
Revenues
4100 Taxes and Excises
4200 Charges for Services
145DO Federal Revenue 395,062 1.174,330 1,587,392
14500 State Revenue
148DO Miscellaneous Revenues 5,000 5,000I
14820 Earnings on Investments J,
TOTAL REVENUES 393A 1,174,330 5,00D 1,672 392
Other Financina Sources
14910 Bond Proceeds
14970 Transfers From Other Funds
14990 Other Financing Sources
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
TOTAL REVENUES AND 393AM 1,174,330 5,000 1,572,392
OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
IExnentlitnres I I
I51D0 Salary and Wages 218,762 743,609 9SZ37I
I5700 Expendituea 22,283 585,838 647 608,7681
58DOA Construction
S91x16 Capital Outlay 196,750 186,750
5900 Deli Service
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 427,795 1,329,447 147 1.757,1199
Other Fimmcine Uses
FMerol GmrdsIFG011
Account Item General Public Public Education FEMA Culture Community Other Housing Other T.I
Number Description Government Safety Works and Development and Urban
Recreation Block Development I
5960 Transfers to Other Funds
5990 Other Financing Uses
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING
USES
TOTAL EXPENDITURES AND 427,795 1,329,447 647 1,757AN
L'l ER Fl�t�CING,SES
Excess clone'of .34,733 -155,117 4,363 -185,497
Revenues Over Fxpendibrnm
and Other Financing
Sources JUses)
0112 FurM Balance Beginning of 27,540 -179.377 258,575 111,738
Year
I0003 Adjustments
I00D4 Fund Balance End of Year -7,193 -3;a,494 262,928 78,759I
Other Special Revenue(OS01)
At1-11 Item Water Sewer Education School Adult Profresssional Community MWPAT THU,V Girls and tkher Total
Number Description Lunch Education Development Preservation Donations
Act
Revenues
4100 Taxes and Excises
4200 Charges for Services 63,26f 391,220 454,481
4500 Federal Revenue 349,680 349,680
4600 State Revenue
4800 Miscellaneous Revenues 322,618 322,618
14820 Earnings on Investments 2,154 2,154
TOTAL REVENUES 63,264 740,900 324,772 1,128,933
Other Financing Sources
4910 Bond Proceeds
4970 Transfers From Other Funds
4990 Other Financing Sources
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
TOTAL REVENUES AND 63,261 740,900 324,772 1,128,933
OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
Expenditures
5100 Salary and Wages 8,770 407,186 415,956
5700 Expenditures 19,110 304,376 156,886 480,372
5800A Construction
5800B Capital Outlay
5900 Debt Service
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 27,88D 711,5d 156,886 896,328
Other Financina Uses
5960 Transfers to Other Funds
5990 Other Financing Uses
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING
USES
TOTAL EXPENDITURES AND 27,886 711,662 156,986 896,328
OTHER FINANCING USES
Other Special Revenue(OS01)
Account Irom Water Sewer ECucadon School Atlult Profressional Community MWPAT TtideV Gitt and Other Total
Number Description Lunch Education Development Pn,c rvatlon Donations
Act
Excess(Deficiency)of 35,381 29,338 167,886 232,605
Revenues Over Expenditures
and Other Financing
Sources uses
0002 Fund Ba ante eginning of 27,506 1,688,087 1,715,593
Year
0003 Adjustment
0004 Fund Balance End of Year 62,887 29,338 1,855,973 1,948,198
Raeeims Reserved for Aoorooriation(RA011
Account Item Education Waterways Wetlands Parking Ambulance Ins.. Sale of Real Sat.of l7<her Tohl
Number Description Improvement Protection Meters Raimb.over Estate Cemetery Lon
520A00
Revenu
4100 Taxes and Excises
4200 Charges for Services
4500 Federal Revenue
.00 State Revenue
4800 Miscellaneous Revenues 373,562 32.845 406,407I
4820 Earnings on Investments I
TOTALREVENUES 373,562 32,845 4111I
Other Finaneina Sources
4910 Bond Proceeds
4970 Transfers From Other Funds
4990 Other Financing Sources
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
TOTAL REVENUES AND 373,662 32,845 406,407
OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
Emnditures
5100 Salary and Wages I
5700 Expenditures I
5600A Constnxtion I
5800B Capital Ou0ay I
5900 Debt Service
TOTAL EXPENDITURES I
Other FnanetnR Uses I
59W Transfers to Other Funds 350,000 15,000 365,000I
5990 Other Financing Uses
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING 350,000 - 15.000 36S.0001
USES
TOTAL EXPENDITURES AND 350,000 15,000 365,D00
OTHER FINANCING USES
Receiots Reserved for AOomodation(RA01)
Atto.. Item Education Waterways Wetland. Parking Ambulance Insurance Saleof Real Sale of Other Total
Im m Number Description proveent Protection Meters Reimb.over Estate Cemetery Loss
$20.t1a0
Excess(Deficiency)of 22,562 17,845 41,407
Revenues Over Expenditures
and Other Financing
Sources�ses)
0002 Fund Balance Beginning of 653,495 174,695 828,190
Year
0003 Adjustments
0004 Fund Balance End of Year 677,05'/ 192,540 869,597
21
Revolving Funds(RF011
Account Item Education Athletic Parks and Ch 44 53 Other Total
Number Description Recreation E 112
Revenues
4100 Taxes and Excises
4200 Charges for Services 2,014,990 158,944 450,406 280,783 2,905,123
4500 Federal Revenue
4600 State Revenue
4800 Miscellaneous Revenues 1,327,167 92,526 1,419,693
4820 Earnings on Investments 85 85
TOTAL REVENUES 2,014,990 158,944 450,491 1,6D7,950 92,526 4,324,9D1
Other Financina Sources
4910 Bond Proceeds
4970 Transfers From Other Funds
4990 Other Financing Sources
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
TOTAL REVENUES AND 2,014,990 158,944 450,491 1,607.960 92,526 4,324,901
OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
Expenditures
5100 Salary and wages 1,241,777 288,999 92,893 1,623,469
5700 Expenditures 614,248 190,496 158,853 1,569,413 2,533,010
5800A Construction
5800B Capital Outlay 93,195 93,195
5900 Debt Service
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 1,866,025 190,496 447,852 1,662,106 93,195 4,249,674
Other Financinq Uses
5960 Transfers to Other Funds
5990 Other Financing Uses
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING
USES
TOTAL EXPENDITURES AND 1,866,025 190,496 447,852 1,662,106 93,195 4,249,674
OTHER FINANCING USES
Revolvinp Funds(RF011
Account Item Education Athletic Parks and Ch 44 53 Other Total
Number Description Recreation E 112
Excess(Deficiency)of 158,965 -31,652 2,639 54,156 -669 75,227
Revenues Over Expenditures
and Other Financing
Sources(Uses)
0002 Fund Balance Beginning of 1,061,883 37,701 111,675 591,728 36,356 1,839,323
Year
0003 Adjustments
0004 Fund Balance End of Year 1,220,828 6,149 114,314 537,572 35,687 1,914,550
22
State Grants(SG01)
Account It- General Public Public Education ME- Culture Council on Library Other Total
Number Description Govemme.t Safety Works and Aging
Recreation
Revenues
4100 Taxes and Excises
4201 Charges for Services
4500 Federal Revenue
4WD State Revenue 178.392 2,581,51D 52,%B 57,955 91,954 2,962,379
4800 Miscellaneous Revenues 1,802 17,500 19,302
4820 Earnings on Investments 16 16
TOTAL REVENUES 178,392 1,SD2 2,581,510 52,568 57,955 169,470 2,981,697
Omer Fnaneina Sou-
l4910 Bond Proceeds
4070 Transfers Fran OBtm Funds
4980- Omer Financing Sources
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
TOTAL REVENUES AND 178,391 1,802 2,581,510 52,568 57,955 109,470 2,961,887
OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
Emendhures I I
5100 Salary and Wages 79,752 182,039 I 35,717 57,995 26,351 381,8641
5700 Expenditures 06,332 1,720 1,311,131 I 32,386 1,411.689I
I5800A Constnstion
58008 Capital Outlay
5900 Debt Service
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 14Q084 1,720 1,493,110 36,717 57,995 58,737 11793p231
Other Financing Uses
5960 Thensfem to Other Fun
5990 Other Financing Uses
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING
USES
TOTAL EXPENDITURESAND 146,084 1,720 1493,170 35,717 57,996 68,737 1,789p731
OTHER FINANCING USES
State Grant&MG(1)
Account Item General Public Public Education MEMA Culture Council on Library Other Total
Number Description Govemment Safety Works and Aging
es
Recreation
Excs(Deficiency)of 32,306 82 IA88-W 16,851 40 50,733 1,18B,274
Revenues Over Expenditures
and Other Financing
soar�ea u>:ea)
0002 Funtl ea ,-Beginning of -28,502 20,967 2272D1 2 99.495 79,725 398,888
Year
coos Adjustmems
0004 Fund Balance End of Year 3,806 21,049 1,315,541 16,S53 99,455 130.458 1,587,162
23
SCHEDULEA
Part IV Cap-rtal Project Funds
Fiscal Vear2016
WATERTOWN
GHi Town f Diseirx
Account Item Water Schook al Municipal Landfill Highw"s Other Tri
Number DescripUon I Buildings (Chaor90)
IReven Sewer
14100 Taxes and Exdses
14200 Charges for Services
uID0 Federal Revenue 1
4600 State Revenue 133,120 310,621 443,7411
14800 Mscellaneous Revenues 12,422 75,000 87,422I
14820 Earnings on Investments
TOTAL REVENUES 12AM 133,120 386,621 631,163
Other Fin aneina Sources
4910 Bond Proceeds
I4970 TmrufemFrom Other Fun tls 1,000,000I 459,500 85,000 1,666,753 3,211,253
4990 Other Financing 81-1
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING SOURCES 1,000,000 459,500 85,006 1,666,753 3,211,253
TOTAL REVENUES AND OTHER FINANCING 1,012,422 459,600 $5,000 133,120 2,06Z,374 3,742,416
SOURCES
Expenditures
6100 Salary and Wages
I57DO Expenditures 994 1,9941
I5800A Conshuction 154,428 337.1b5( 3,593,565 201,776 3,513,400 7,800.2691
5800E Capital Outlay 4,128 146,948 147,131 80,471 378,6781
5900 Debt Service
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 158,554 464,060 3,740,696 201,776 3,595,865 8,180,9411
Other FInanelno Uses
5960 Transfers to Other Funds
$990 Other Financing Uses
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING USES
TOTAL FXPENDITURES AND OTHER 158,554 484,050 3,740,696 201,776 3,595,865 8,180,94t
FINANCING USES
Excess(Deficiency)of Revenues Over 853,868 -24,550 -3,655,696 -68,656 -7,543,491 -4,438,525
Expenditures and Other Financing Sources
(��
0002 Fun d lance Beginning of Vear 2,387,155 384,746 5,033,655 -216,585 3,212,263 10,801,234
000 Adjustments
0004 Fund Balance End of Year 3,241,023 360,196 1,377,95d -285.241 1,668,77' 6,362,709I
24
SCHEDULEA
Part V Enterprise Funds
Fiscal Year 2015
WATERTOWN
city I Town I District
Awwx* Bnm Water Sews Electric Landfills, Hespind. Health Care Airpm Hartaor GOIC-- Public Other T""
Nuvibbr Description Recreation
Revenues
410D Taxes and&Clses
4200 Charges for SW"' 6,280,861 9,04,7e 15,330,618
4500 Federal Revenue
4800 State Revenue
4800 Miscellaneous Revenues 124,179 =50 137,029
4820 Earnings on Investments 3,768 5.841 9.609
TOTAL REVENUES 6,408,8D8 9,068,448 15,477,256
Other Fbnncine Sources
4910 Borx1 Proceeds
4971) I Transfers Fnern Other Funds
4990 Other Financing Sources
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
TOTAL REVENUES AND 6,408,808 9,068,448 16rd7,R58
OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
ExcendHures -
5100 (Salary and Wages 809,671 WO,123 1,189,7941
5700 (ExpertQtures 3,370.847 6,108,135 9 C78.982l
SBOOA C:oristluctlon
58o06pital Outlay 198,807 1,728,536 1,927,343
5900 Debt Senrice 416,745 213,494 630,239
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 4,7%,07DI Sp3o,288 13,226,358
Other EXPENDITURES
Uses
5960 Transfers to Other Funds 1,991,355 1,778,821 3,770,176
5990 Other Financing Uses
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING 1,991,355 1,718,921 I 31770,176
USES
TOTAL EXPENDITURES AND 6,797,426 10,209,109 16,996,%4
OTHER FINANCING USES
Excess(Deficiency)of 378,617 -1,140,661 •1,519.278
Revenues Over Expenditures
and Other Financing
Sou-
es ansece s) /
0002 Fund Be Beginning of 4,030,862 7.262.755 11,293.617
Year
0003 Adjustment
0004 Fund Balance End of Year 3.652,245 S,122,094 9,774,339
25
SCHEDULEA
Part VI Trust Funds
Fiscal Ycar 2015
WATERTOWN
City l Town l Di'o-
Non•ExoenrlablelExoendable Trusts lNE011
AeeouM Item Non-Expenda Workers Pension Stabilization Health Claims Health Claims Conservation OPEB Trust Other Total
Number Description ble Trust Compensation Reserve -City/Town -Employee Trust Fund Fund
Share Share
eve uus
141 DO Taxes and Excises
4200 Charges for Services I
I4500 Federal Revenue
4600 State Revenue
14. MiscelWroo.Revenues 9,45D 569.704 579,1541
4820 Earnings on Investments 7,378 222 30,574 38,1741
(TOTAL REVENUES 9,460 7,378 222 600,278 617,328I
Omer Fruneina Soirees
4910 Bond Proceeds
I4970 I Transfers Front Other Funds 2,303,214 2,303.214I
4990 Omer Financing Sources I
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING 2,303,214 2,303,2141
SOURCES
TOTAL REVENUES AND 9pad 7,378 222 2,903,492 2,920,642
OTHER FINANCING
SOURCES
Expenditures
5100 I Salary and Wages
I5700- llltttxxxpenditums 999 104,941 105,940I
5800A Construction
5800B Capital Outlay5900 Debt Service
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 999 104,941 105,940I
Other Financing Uses I
Non-Exoendable/Exoendabla Trusts rNE011
Atoount bem Non-Expend a Workers Pension Stablllzatlon Health Claims Health CW— Conservation OPEB Trust Other Total
Number Description ble Trust Compensation Reserve •City/Tovm •Employee Trust Fund Fund
Share Share
15960 Tmnsfem to Other Funds 1,218,611 1,25e,651
5990 Omer Financing Uses
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING 7,288,651 1,288,651
USES
TOTAL EXPENDITURES AND 999 1,393 1,394,5911
OTHER FIt�1NCING l�€5
Excess(De ieney)o 9,456 7,378 -777 1,509,900 1,525,951
Revenues Over Expenditures
and Omer Financing
Sources ses)
0002 Fund Ba ance Beginning of 1,240.816 1,226,295 103,254 7,859,363 1 D,429,728I
Vear
0003 Adjustrnents
0004 Fund Balance End of Year 1,250,266 1,233,673 1C24T 9,369,263 11,955.679
26
SCHEDULE A
Part VII Agency Funds
Fiscal Year 2015
WATERTOWN
City!Town I District
Account Item Balance Additions Deductions Balance
Number Description July 1,2,014 June 30,2015
Assets
0005 Cash -164,162 1,661,709 1,566,484 -67,937
0006 Accounts Receivable
TOTAL ASSETS -164,162 1,661,709 1,56SA84 .67,937
Liabilities
0007 Police Outside Detail -235,538 961,308 1,004,172 -278,402
0008 Fire Off Duty Detail -32,951 7$,768 47,051 -6,234
0009 Tax Due State
0010 Meals Tax Due State
0011 Licenses Due State
0012 Due CountylRetirement Systems
1 0013 Guarantee Bid Deposits
0014 Unclaimed Items
0015 Other Liabilities 104,327 646,469 534,097 216,699
TOTAL LIABILIYIFS -164,162 1,681,545 11585,320 -67,937
NOTE:Total Assets Must Equal Total Liaibilities
SCHEDULEA
Part VIII Personnel Expenditures
Fiscal Year 2015
WATERTOWN
City l Town I District
Total Salaries and Wages as of December 31,2014 as Reported on IRS Form W-2 50,652,984
Total Number of Employees(FTE)for Calendar Year Ending December 31,2014 974
27
SCHEDULE A
Part IX Schedule of Cash and Investments as of Jane 30,2015
Fiscal Year 2015
WATERTOWN
City 1 Town 1 District
Account Item Cash and
Number Description Investments
FUNDS
0016 General Fund 18,881,482
0017 Special Revenue 6,240.748
0018 Debt Service Fund
0019 Capital Project Funds 6,362,709
0020 Enterprise Funds 8,689,751
0021 Trust Funds 11,955,679
!I 0022 Agency Funds -67,937
TOTAL ALL FUNDS 52,062,432
28
SCHEDULE A
Part X Schedule of Debt Outstanding,Issued,and Retired this Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year 2015
WATERTOWN
City I Town/District
Account Item Outstanding Issued this Retiredthis Outstanding Interestthis
Number Description July 1,2014 Fisal Year Fiscal Year June 30,2015 Fiscal Year
A.GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS l
INSIDE DEBT LIMIT
0001 BUILDINGS 23,493,772 1,726,492 21,767,280 $43,164
D002 DEPARTMENT EQUIPMENT 2,139,700 540,000 1,599,700 83,714
D003 SCHOOL BUILDINGS 5,908,700 722,900 5,185,800 197,498
_D004 SCHOOL-ALL OTHER 30,000 3,500 26,500 951
D005 SEWER 60,985 60,985
D006 SOLID WASTE
D007 OTHER INSIDE LIMIT 5,331,828 981,106 4,350,720 134,824
TOTAL INSIDE DEBT LIMIT 36,964,935 4,034,986 32,930,000 1,240,151
OUTSIDE DEBT LIMIT
D008 AIRPORT
D009 HOSPITAL
D010 ELECTRIC
0011 GAS
D012 SCHOOL BUILDINGS 4,062,000 1,055,000 3,D07,000 84,8281
D013 SEWER 178,200 59,400 118,800
0014 SOLID WASTE
D015 WATER 2,391,816 323,636 2,D68,180
D016 OTHER OUTSIDE LIMIT
TOTAL OUTSIDE DEBT LIMIT 6,632,1116 1,438,036 5,193,980 84,828
TOTAL LONG TERM DEBT 43,597,001 5,473,021 38,123,980 1,324,979
Account Item Outstanding Issued this Redmd this Outstanding Interestthis
Number Description July 1,2014 Fisal Year Fiscal Year June 30,2015 Fiscal Year
B.REVENUE AND NONGUARANTEED BONDS l
D021 REVENUE AND NONGUARANTEED BONDS
C.SHORT TERM DEBT
D017 TAX ANTICIPATION NOTES
D018 BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES
D019 GRANT ANTICIPATION NOTES
D020 OTHER SHORT TERM DEBT
TOTAL SHORT TERM DEBT
D.OTHERINTEREST
D022 OTHERINTEREST
kem Authorized Issued! Unissued
Description Retired I June 30,2015
Rescinded
TOTAL AUTHORIZED AND UNISSUED 7,991,800 7,991,800
G.a
SCHEDULEA
Part XI Reconciliation of Fund Equity(Retained Earnings)for the Fiscal Year End June 30,2015
Fiscal Vear 2015
WATERTOWN
Dray I Town I District
Revenues and Expenditures from Financial Report General Special Revenue Capital Projects Enterprise Trust TOTAL
(a) (b) (c) (tl) (e) (a}(e)
(1)
1 Total Revenue 108,816,921 1 10,414,3301 1 531,1631 1 135,856,9981
2 Total Expenditures 106,476,247 1 8.697,3141 1 8,180,9411 13,226.358 105,940 1 136,686,7941
3 TOTAL EXCESS(DEFICIENCY)OF REVENUES OVER EXPENDITURES(SUM OF LINES 2,340,680 1 1.717,0161 1 -7,60,778 2,250,898 511,388 1 .829,7961
1 AND 2)
4 Transfers From Other Funds 4,423,827 01 1 3.211,2531 2,303,214 1 9,938,2941
5 Other F rcing sources 01 1 01 0° 0° I 01
6 Transfers To Other Funds a,514,467 1 365,DODI1 01 3,77D,776 1,286,651 1 9,938,2941
7 Other Financing Uses 1,326,027 I 01 1 01 1 1.326.0271
8 TOTAL OTHER FINANCING SOURCES(USES)(SUM OF LINES 4 THROUGH 7) •1p16,667 1 366,00011 3,211,7M 3,770,1]6 1,014,6W 1 -1.326.0271
9 TOTAL EXCESS(DEFICIENCY)OF REVENUES OVER EXPENDITURES AND OTHER 924,013 1 1,352,01611 -4,438,626 -1,619276 1,625.967 1 •2,155,8231
FINANCING SOURCES(USES)(SUM OF LINES 3 AND 8)
10 Fund Equity(Retained Earnings)Beginning of Year 17,051,278 I 4,Sa8,7321 1 10,801,2341 1 54,464,5891
11 Other Adjustments 001 011 010° 0° 1 01
12 TOTAL EXCESS(DEFICIENCY)OF REVENUES OVER EXPENDITURES AND OTHER 17,97529t 1 6,240,7481 1 6,362,701 1 52.308.7661
FINANCING SOURCES(USES)(SUM OF LINES 3 AND 8)
13 Additional Information
General Fund Expenditures(Part 2)
Health Insurance 1 11,248,3141
Trust Funds(Part 6) Total Revenues Total Exoenditures
Health Claims(Cttyrrown) OI OI
Capital Projects Funds(Part 4) Total Revenues Total Expenditures
Schools 1 01 484,0501
Highways 1 133,1201 1 201,7761
Education General Funds(Part 2)
Local I 39,231,6751
Regional School Assessment(1) 1 01
Regional School Assessment(2) 1 01
Regional School Assessment(3) 01
Regional School Assessment(4) 01
SCHEDULE A
Part XII
Fiscat Year 201S
WATERTOWN
City f Town/District
Notes:
1—1 Tro,v Anmmr wmmm,,,„en-nn—n zreaote s:¢s Artn e1r-sreaas¢
7cvm arro,Mmnt oma TeLNn
NOTE:The information has not been Approved and is subject to change.
30
PERSONNEL DEPARTMENT
The Personnel Department directly serves Information-Counter-Evacuate(ALICE) Commission on Disability provided
the employees of the Town and coordinates trainings for municipal employees to information,advice and advocacy for
with the Watertown School Department's train for emergency situations.Other Town and School departments as well
Personnel staff on an as-needed basis. trainings in 2015 were Chainsaw Safety as individuals in the community.The
The Department is responsible for the with the Conservation Agent and Public Commission's funding comes from
Human Resources policies and procedures Works Department staff,Open Meeting the proceeds of handicapped parking
for positions appointed by the Town Laws,Safety Training for Welding,Mental violations received from the Town
Manager.The office manages recruiting, Health First Aid,Expert Communication Treasurer/Collector who also serves as the
background investigations,orientation, Skills,Project Management Essentials, Parking Clerk.The Commission provided
personnel records,administers the Community Access Monitor Training,as funds for an audio describer at the New
Town's compensation plan,workers' well as legal updates for personnel and Repertory Theatre for the Perkins School
compensation claims,public safety benefits staff. for the Blind students.The Commission
injury-on-duty claims,and unemployment provided interpreters and Communication
claims.During 2015 the Department The Personnel Department continued Access Realtime Translation(CART)
conducted surveys of comparable to facilitate the process for successor services for community events such as the
communities regarding a number of issues, contract negotiations with the collective Live Well Watertown Speaker forum,the
continued to audit our practices to ensure bargaining units,Department Heads,the Martin Luther King Jr.Unity Breakfast,
compliance with employment laws,and Town Manager,and the Town's Attorney. and League of Women Voter's civic events.
engaged in a wide variety of other special The Department frequently provided The Commission made donations and
projects in partnership with the Town Department Heads and individual grants to the Watertown Food Pantry
Manager and Department Heads.The employees with interpretations of their and the St.Patrick's Food Pantry;the
Department processed over 600 personnel collective bargaining agreements. Watertown Free Public Library to purchase
transactions in 2015.These include films in American Sign Language and
changes in employment status such as The Personnel Department continued to supplies for the Library Insiders Program
retirements,resignations,promotions, post recruitments to websites in keeping for disabled populations;the SPEDPAC
as well as changes in compensation.The with our goal to increase the use of speaker series;the Wayside Multi-Service
Department recruitment efforts resulted technology.Applicants view job postings, Center for social work services;Watertown
in 38 new hires for regular part time and fill out a Town Application form from Prosperity for its snow shoveling program
full time positions.There were additional the Personnel Department's website and matching Watertown students with
recruitments for seasonal positions as well. submit it by email at their convenience. disabled and elderly residents;Partners in
Similarly,Civil Service recruitments are Youth with Disabilities for tuition towards
The Personnel Department is responsible posted on the State's Human Resources the Access to Theater program;and tuition
for assisting employees with professional Division website.Residents interested in for the Mental Health First Aid training.
growth and career coordination in order Civil Service information can research
to enhance their employment experience examination dates and apply on-line The Personnel Department looks forward
with Watertown.To that end,we regularly directly with Civil Service. to 2016 and its continued dedication
utilize the training and consultation to improving service to the Town
services of the Employee Assistance The Personnel Department assists the Manager and Town Council,employees,
Program,the Career Place,and the Watertown Commission on Disability Department Heads and the citizens of
Massachusetts Municipal Association. (W.C.O.D.)as staff support for their Watertown.
The Personnel and Police Departments meetings and activities related to their
scheduled two Alert-Lockdown- goals and objectives.In 2015,the
31
TOWN CLERK AND ELECTION
The Town Clerk and Election Office serves •Continued the duties and responsibility The Licensing Board also works closely
as a direct link between the citizenry and as Burial Agent for the Town. with five town departments,the ABCC
its Town government.The Town Clerk's and the State Fire Marshall's Office in the
Office by statute,is responsible for the .Completed the annual renewal process licensing process.
issuance of vital statistics,maintenance of for all applicable licenses,permits and
Town records,the insurance of compliance certificates while ensuring compliance Vital Statistics
with the Commonwealth's Open Meeting with Title III Section 33.03 of the Code of
Law and it serves as a repository for all Watertown. Births 467
rules,regulations,ordinances and bylaws Deaths Recorded 275
promulgated by the Town Council and •Ensured compliance with state guidelines Marriage Intentions 243
other town departments. in the filing of necessary annual reports Marriages Recorded 238
with the Alcohol Beverage Control Affidavits of Correction
The Town Clerk's Office was first Commission(ABCC)and the Department Of Births,Deaths and
established in 1634,the first year records of Public Safety. Marriages Recorded 7
were kept,and continues today to provide
accurate documentation on events and •Ensured access to all polling stations Licenses
happenings of the City known as the throughout the Town. Kennel License 2
Town of Watertown.The Town Clerk's Dog Licenses 926
Office provides a number of consumer •Coordinated the planning of the 2015 Cat Licenses 331
services,such as the issuance of dog and Faire on the Square. Seven Day All Alcoholic
cat licenses,the sale of various Division Common Victualler 19
of Fisheries and Wildlife licenses and The Election Commission,a four-member Seven Day Wine/Malt
the office serves as a distribution of body,has a number of responsibilities Common Victualler 5
various public service brochures and mandated by Massachusetts General Laws Six Day All Alcoholic
surveys.The staff in the office also serve Chapter 50 through 56.The Commission Common Victualler 7
as"unofficial ombudsmen'to provide is charged to ensure fair and impartial Six Day Wine/Malt
general information regarding various elections in the Town of Watertown. Common Victualler 2
municipal serves to the public.The Town Responsibilities include:coordination of Common Victualler License 96
Clerk's Office also serves as a liaison the Annual Census,generation of voting Clubs 11
between the town and the federal and state lists and jury lists,maintenance of the Auto Dealer Class I 9
governments. Town's residency database and compliance Auto Dealer Class II 12
with the Office of Campaign and Political All Alcoholic Package Goods Store 6
During calendar year 2015,the office Finance's reporting procedures. Wine/Malt Package Goods Store 7
achieved the following: 3
The Election Commission conducted the 24-Hours Opening
Sale of Food at Retail 3
•Maintained the highest level of accuracy following voting exercises during 2015. Entertainment 20
in the recording and issuance of the Vital Music Box 7
Statistics of the Town of Watertown.Since DATE TYPE OF ELECTION Automatic Amusement Device 13
February,2010 The Commonwealth's September 17,2015 Preliminary Auto Repair 54
Vitals Information Partnership was Election Letting Out of Motor Vehicles 3
instituted automating Birth Certificates District B Town Shuttle/Jitney 1
and in November,2014 Burial Permits and Councillor Livery 11
Death Certificates through the Gateway November 3,2015 Town Election
Network.
The Licensing Board promulgates rules
.Places election signage in strategic and regulations specific to Watertown to
locations throughout the town alerting the ensure the life safety and health of the
citizenry to the upcoming voting exercises. citizenry and town visitors.The Licensing
Board issues a myriad of licenses that
•Conducted the 2015 Annual Town range from amusement devices,to
Census. common victuallers to liquor licenses.
All of the licenses issued are renewable
•Conducted the 2015 Annual dog and cat on a yearly basis.The Licensing Board
licensing process. also serves as hearing officer to ensure
compliance with licensing conditions.
32
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
The Information Technology(IT) Information technology improvements The IT Department will strive to
Department supports the Town of undertaken in 2015 include new laptops, save costs,paper,and energy in the
WatertowiA administrative information printers,servers,cash stations,and voice- deployment of information technologies
systems and leads the implementation to-email unified messaging. such as energy-saving desktops and
of new computer technologies.The IT servers,monitors,and remanufactured
Department administers the Town's The Town and School IT Departments toner cartridges.The IT Department
wide-area computer network,which worked on common network will make improvements in mobile
connects Town Hall,Library,Police,Fire, infrastructure equipment and shared workforce technology using smartphones,
School Department,and Public Works increased high-speed Internet access. government-specific apps,and multi-
buildings.Additional municipal buildings The Town and School also shared an function tablets that will reduce paper
on the wide-area network include the applications specialist who assists all forms created in the field.As well,
Commanders'Mansion,Senior Center, departments in the operation of the Town's improvements will continue in the effort
and John A.Ryan Skating Arena.The financial management system. to provide greater public access to Town
Department also maintains computers information on-line community contact
which process Financials,Accounts The Town's official website,www. modules.
Payables,Purchasing,Requisitioning, watertown-ma.gov,,is managed by the
Payroll,Water/Sewer Billing,Real IT Department with a software system
Estate Tax Billing,and Assessing.Other that allows for distributed content
administrative systems,such as Motor updating,calendaring,page development,
Vehicle Billing and Parking Ticket hyperlinking,and documentation,and
processing,are supported by service provides links to other departmental web
vendors.The TowiA Computer Network sites.Throughout the year,an emphasis
provides a complete electronic platform was on providing content relative to
for employees to communicate and share meeting management information that the
documents.Built on a backbone of high- public could access—agendas,minutes,
speed fiber-optic cabling,the system presentations,meeting documents,and
allows for secure communications among calendar items.
Town departments.
33
TOW N ATTO R N EY
The law firm of Kopelman and Paige P.C. Health on matters of regulations and the Watertown community and for their
acts as Town Attorney for the City known enforcement.We work with the Licensing efforts and dedication in attending to the
as the Town of Watertown,providing Board on license and permit issues.We many needs of the Town.We appreciate
advice to the Town Manager and the Town work regularly with the Town's planners the opportunity to work with the Town's
Council,as well as the Town's various and land use boards on zoning issues department heads,employees and boards,
boards and departments on legal matters. and the development of ordinances and and look forward to continuing to provide
The firm represents the Town in litigation regulations.We continue to advise the the Town with effective legal advice and
and enforcement of the Town's ordinances Town with respect to its housing programs. representation.
and serves as labor counsel to the Town,
assisting the Town Manager in matters We regularly provide the Town with Respectfully submitted,
involving labor and employment and no-cost memoranda on a wide range of
collective bargaining.The Town Attorney legal topics to assist the Town in making Kopelman and Paige,P.C.
also assists the Town in real estate and decisions in a lawful and cost effective Town Attorney
land use matters,and drafts,reviews, manner.We have addressed topics
and approves contracts with vendors involving the minimum wage law,changes
who provide goods and services to the to the campaign finance law,labor and
Town,including specialized design and employment issues,important land use
consulting services.The Town Attorney and procurement issues,and other areas of
attends all Town Council meetings, law which may be of interest to the Town.
providing guidance on parliamentary These memoranda provide guidance for
procedure and legal interpretations of the Town's boards and committees as they
the Town's Home Rule Charter and the address Town issues,and assist the Town
Council's Rules,as well as the requirements in framing legal questions for efficient
of state statutes and the Town's own resolution.
ordinances and rules and regulations.
It is our privilege to serve the City known
The Town Attorney works with all of the as the Town of Watertown as Town
Town's departments on a broad range Attorney.We thank the Town Manager and
of matters.We advise to the Board of Town Council for the opportunity to serve
34
PURCHASING DEPARTMENT
The Purchasing Department aims to provided were a large number of snow supplies,vehicle parts,office supplies,
provide valuable services to the Town by plow contractors,security installation at training and educational services,and
assisting Town and School Departments the Schools,town wide shade tree planting carpet installation.These are all examples
with obtaining the highest quality of which was increased,commander's of successful procurements exercised
supplies and services for the best dollar mansion grounds beautification services, by both Town and School Offices.The
value.The department also functions elevator maintenance services,copy Purchasing Department continues to
as a control to ensure the Town is machine maintenance,and many more. auctions decommissioned police and
complying with Massachusetts General department of public works vehicles and
Laws and Local Ordinances.Ongoing The Purchasing Department will other surplus property through a web site
initiatives include identifying cost-savings, continue to use the Commonwealth called municibid.com.
consolidating purchases when appropriate, of Massachusetts state contracts and
and assisting departments with gathering the Massachusetts Higher Education In 2015 the Town of Watertown sought
information needed to make informed Consortium as well as cooperative and was awarded$300,000 to fund the
buying decisions. bids conducted with a group of local Phase II of the LED Street Light Retrofits
municipalities.Some goods received project which will complete the retrofit of
In 2015 the bidding environment proved through cooperative bids are Gasoline, all Town owned street lights.Installation
to be competitive as usual.Some publically Diesel Fuel,#2 Fuel Oil,Road Salt,and will begin in 2016.The Energy Manager
bid projects were the Mill&Overlay services such as Special Education Student grant will be in its second year with
50-100 ft.sections,Mill&Overlay 300 Bus Services.The Commonwealth of funding up to$50,000.This has proven to
ft.sections,Sidewalk Repairs,3'd Party Massachusetts contracts along with be a great asset to the Town for tracking
Review of Schools,On-Call Architectural the Massachusetts Higher Education utility data savings and mechanical
Design Services,Library Cafe Services, Consortium are used to procure performance of newly installed equipment.
Watertown Public School Student Bus such goods and services as elevator
Transportation Services,Town Hall& maintenance services,office supplies, Respectfully submitted,
North Fire Station Re-Roof Project,2015 computer equipment,computer
Pavement Rehabilitation,re-roofing at the software,computer consulting services, Raeleen F.Parsons,MCPPO
Watertown Free Public Library and the copy machine equipment and services, Director of Purchasing
Town Hall as well as the Town Hall Cupola furniture,moving services,vehicle
historical painting project.Other services purchase and replacement,public safety
35
HEALTH DEPARTMENT
The Health Department staff consists of collection.In 2015 the Health Department
one full-time Director,one full-time Chief conducted 268 complaint investigations.
Environmental Health Officer,two full- The Health Department issued 64
time Health Officers,one full-time Head administrative order letters as a result of
Clerk,one full-time Public Health Nurse, the complaint investigations.Four of these
one full-time Animal Control Officer/ complaints resulted in filings at Waltham
Jr.Health Officer and one part-time District Court and show cause hearings
Veterinarian. before the Clerk Magistrate.
The Board of Health consists of three In conjunction with inspectional work,
members that are appointed for three year the Health Department issues numerous '
terms by the Town Manager. permits.Before a permit can be issued, Watertown Staffing the
the permit holder/applicant submits a Collection Day in Lexington
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH completed plan review application.The Household Sharps Collections were held
Health Department reviews plans for all quarterly in 2015 at the Administration
The Health Department conducts new and renovated food establishments, Building parking lot.A total of 97
numerous mandated inspections hazardous materials establishments, residents brought 200 pounds of needles,
throughout the year according to local and tanning establishments,body art syringes,and lancets in sharps and
state mandates.These inspections include, establishments,swimming pools,and puncture proof containers for sanitary
but are not limited to,food establishments, Community Development and Planning disposal.Eliminating these materials from
mobile food vehicles,farmer's market projects. the municipal waste stream reduces the
vendors,temporary food events;housing; potential for accidental needle sticks and
body art establishments;indoor air quality blood borne pathogens.
at skating rinks;tanning establishments; Total Environmental Permits:2015
swimming pools and whirlpools;group I Moderate Risk Food Establishments 132 Body Art Establishments 3
homes;and motels. I Low Risk Food Establishments 84 B�,dy Art Pmctittonei, 7
Farmers Market Vend-, l" Swimming Pools/whirlpools 23
Environmental Inspections:2015 Mobde Food vehicles 21 Tanning Establishments 1
Residentrat Kitchen 5 Funeral Directors 14
Food Establishment Inspections 537
Temporai y Fuud Events 230 Motels 1
Mobile Food Vehicle Inspections 70
Farmer's Market Inspections 775
Tobacco&Nicotine D'I"ry Hazardous Materials
Products Estabhelnnents 42 Establshments 150
Temporary Food Inspections I S
Recreational Camps for Children 4
Housing inspections 83
Swimming Pool/Whirlpool Inspections 39
Tanning Establishment Inspections 2 Household Hazardous and Medical
Body Art Establishment Inspections 3 Waste Collection Filippello Park Clean-up
Nuisance Inspections 127
Food Complaint Inspections 16 Watertown residents took household In conjunction with WZLX Radio,the
Tobacco Compliance Checks 80 hazardous waste to the Minuteman Health,Recreation and Public Works
Recreational camps for Children 6 Regional Household Products Facility departments organized a clean-up of
Total Inspections 1,093 (MRHPF)in Lexington.The facility Filippello Park.The clean-up was offered
operates eight times from April through by WZLX in commemoration of One
November and accepts a wide variety of Boston Day,"a holiday aimed at honoring
Another portion of the Health `the resilient generosity and strength of
Department's work involves complaint household hazardous waste.In 2015,202 Y g y �
Watertown residents visited the facility the city'on the anniversary of the Boston
investigation including,but not limited on Marath bombings."
to,solid waste,dust,odors,noise,rodents, to dispose of household hazardous waste, g
nuisances,food establishments,food- resulting in the collection of 117 half-car
borne illnesses,tobacco,and housing.
loads and 126 full-car loads. Animal Control
In response to complaints involving The Animal Control Officer(ACO)
rubbish and garbage left out at the curb at responded to and investigated 430 animal
non-collection tines or days,the Health calls which include dog bites and their
Department distributed bright green door State mandated rabies quarantines,
hangers reminding citizens of how and aggressive animals,animal welfare calls,
when to place garbage and rubbish out for nuisance barking complaints,sick/injured
36
animals,lost/found pets,among others. getting the stray animals the veterinary
The ACO performed the mandated kennel care they require.The ACO works with
inspections for the two licensed businesses private kennels including,Skipton Kennels
in Town.The Town hosted its annual in Waltham and Palmer Kennels in Acton,
rabies clinic in April and vaccinated 21 to house dogs.She works with local
animals. rescues,including Buddy Dog Humane
Society,MSPCA and Animal Rescue
League to place animals.
Senior Stray Cat placed in
hospice with Vet Tech
r' lr
Cat Rescued from roof in conjunction
with Watertown Fire Department
y
Raccoon rescued from dumpster and released Dog thrown from a car placed
with Animal Rescue League
The ACO participated in two dangerous
dog hearings that were heard by the
Board of Health who act as the hearing
Abandoned Turtle Transported to Rescue authority for such matters.She attended
all relevant court dates in reference to
Projects the ACO participated in included unpaid citations,violations of the hearing
composing the Watertown Dog Park authority and criminal cases.She attended
Rules,revamping the Animal Control all meetings that pertained to the dog park
Ordinance and continuing to scan old and is a member of the Filippello Park
complaints into electronic form.The ACO Renovation Committee.The ACO hosted a
continues to maintain the Watertown,MA booth at Faire on the Square representing
Animal Control Facebook page to share both the Town Animal Control program Momma cat who was tossed
information with its residents as well as and the Massachusetts Animal Fund.In from a car while pregnant
post information on lost or found pets. conjunction with the Belmont Animal The ACO attended a week long National
Control Officer,the ACO visited Animal Control Association training
Watertown's UPS location to educate the and was able to obtain certification as
drivers on dog bite prevention. a Nationally Certified Animal Control
Officer.Other trainings included a two
The ACO serves on the Animal day training on safe handling of aggressive
Control Officer Subcommittee for the and dangerous dogs,Interview and
Massachusetts Animal Fund which Investigation Techniques and Investigative
is administered by the Massachusetts Techniques for Cruelty and Neglect
Department of Agriculture.She also acts Complaints.The ACO also attended the
as the liaison for the Fund's spay/neuter Wildlife Training for ACO's hosted by
initiative and obtained vouchers to spay/ Massachusetts Fish and Wildlife.
neuter 14 animals(both homeless and
belonging to low income residents).The Mosquito Control
ACO worked to sign up Pet Haven Animal
Hospital as a provider for this program The Board of Health worked in
Senior Cat Abandoned and continues to work with them on conjunction with the East Middlesex
37
Mosquito Control Commission(EMMCP) The Watertown Health Dept.also hosted Communicable Diseases
in planning larvicide,adulticide and MRC's"Bloodborne Pathogens"seminar
surveillance activities throughout the presented by Lisa Crowner from the In the year of 2015 there were 241
town.In 2015 the threat of the West Mass.Department of Public Health at the confirmed,suspected,and probable
Nile Virus(WNV)continued to rise Watertown Police Station,and participated communicable/reportable diseases
in Massachusetts and nationally.As a in the organization of a day long MRC reported to the Health Department
result of the WNV threat,the EMMCP conference at Olin College. through the Department of Public
applied larvicide to 3,400 catch basins in Health's disease surveillance and
order to control the emergence of vector COMMUNITY HEALTH monitoring system"MAVEN"MAVEN
mosquitoes.The Health Department is a database used for surveillance,
and EMMCP continually monitor Seasonal Influenza Clinics control,and prevention of reportable
the emergence of these viruses and communicable diseases under 105 CMR
adjust plans accordingly to maintain In an effort to provide the greatest 300.000.Information is obtained through
comprehensive intervention,education protection available to its residents,the case interviews and then uploaded into
and surveillance programs. Health Department purchased the more the MAVEN database.The following
effective quadrivalent influenza vaccine chart shows the total for all confirmed,
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS in 2015 at a cost of$9,019.80.The Public suspect and probable diseases reported in
Health Nurse organized and operated eight Watertown in 2015.
Watertown is one of twenty-seven cities public Seasonal Influenza/Pneumonia
and towns that comprise Region 4b of clinics in the 2015/16 season.Two clinics Health Promotion
the Massachusetts Department of Public held at Watertown Senior Center were
Health(MDPH)emergency preparedness designated to address the high risk elder In 2015 The Health Department organized
district.There are fifteen statewide population.Homebound,elderly,and or presented several health related topics
coalitions in all.Through Watertown's disabled residents received flu shots via for the Watertown Mall,who hosts these
participation in Region 4b,Watertown home visits by the Public Health Nurse educational sessions for the community
continuously improves on an emergency and MRC volunteer nurses.In addition at the Old Country Buffet.Some of the
preparedness plan that includes,but is fourteen clinics were hosted for first topics presented included:"Stress and
not limited to,Infectious Diseases Plan, responders,Public School staff,and at Stress Management","Diabetes","Cancer
Emergency Dispensing Site(EDS)Plan, some of Watertown's Individuals with Prevention';and"Cardiovascular Disease".
Animal Disaster Plan,Individuals with Functional and Access Needs locations. In addition to these health sessions,the
Functional and Access Needs,Radiological Over 750 doses of seasonal influenza Health Department offered an educational
Response Plan,Isolation and Quarantine vaccine were administered by the Public session on"Measles and Food Allergies"
Plan,a Risk Communication Plan,a Health Nurse and Watertown's Medical for daycare providers at Watertown
Continuity of Operation Plan(CoOP),and Reserve Corps volunteers. Harvard Medical Association.
a Mutual Aid Agreement(MAA).In 2015,
the Health Department received a total
of$8,769.57 in Public Health Emergency Confirmed, Suspect & Probable
Preparedness(PHEP)grant funding Communicable Diseases 2015
that funded primarily supplies and
programming,with EP mandates being 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 so
fulfilled with existing Health Department Campylobacteriosis CP 6
staffing. Calicivirus/Norovirus o 3
Dengue Fever .P 1
Babesiosis 1
In 2015 the Health Department continued Giardiasis 4
to expand the coalition with Perkins Group B Streptococcus 1
Hepatitis B 9
School for the Blind,VinFen,Beaverbrook Hepatitis C —� 34
Step,and Beacon High School to Q Fever ri
further develop the sections addressing influenza
Legionellosis 1
Individuals with Functional and Access Lyme Disease 30
Needs in the EDS and Emergency Shelter Meningococcal Disease 1
plans.The Health Department completed Salmonella 9
Pa P P Shiga toxin producing organism 1
the Centers for Communicable Disease Shigellosis 3
eumoniae P
and Prevention's(CDC)Emergency Streptococcus nTB-Active 2 i
Preparedness deliverables for 2015.The TB-LTBI 27
Watertown Health Department continues Group A Streptococcus 1
to recruit and train a volunteer Medical Varicella 5
Reserve Corps(MRC).In 2015 the MRC
Region 4b offered CPR/AED First Aid
and Basic Life Support for healthcare
provider classes for MRC volunteers.
38
The Health Department offered seven of Live Well Watertown needed social work and clean-up services
the American Heart Association,CPR/ for residents who find themselves in a
AED and First Aid classes. The Health Department has partnered hoarding situation with excessive amounts
with Live Well Watertown by serving on of materials in their homes.These grants
With grant funding from Community the Steering Committee,advocating for also funded Lee Shuer's workshop"Buried
Health Network Area 17,the department grant funding,and providing support to in Treasure"and a monthly support group
was able to provide training to eighteen its Coordinator,in an effort to support for friends and family members of people
front line municipal officials in Mental LWW's mission to"create a network of with significant clutter concerns led by
Health First Aid through Wayside Youth diverse individuals and organizations Patty Underwood,an experienced licensed
and Family Services. who promote wellness for everyone that social worker from Riverside Community
lives,works,and plays in Watertown...by Center.
W.A.T.E.R.town (Watertown Access fostering collaboration,influencing policy,
to Treatment,Education and and developing programs that promote the Tobacco Control
Resources) Task Force on Substance health of the community."
The Health Department continued its
Use Disorder Programs and activities have included tobacco compliance program to help
a Healthy Eating and Cooking series, reduce youth access to tobacco and
The Health Department,along with the walking events,snowshoeing,a nicotine delivery products through a
Police Department,at the request of the community forum,and educational regional collaborative based in Brookline.
Town Council Committee on Human displays at health fairs.Additional In 2015 there were 35 tobacco retailers
Services,developed an Action Plan and planning includes formalizing the permitted by the Health Department.
launched the creation of a Task Force structure of Live Well Watertown and There were two rounds of tobacco
to address the growing opioid crisis in garnering support for funding this effort. compliance checks conducted which
Watertown.Input was provided by a involved a minor entering a permitted
dedicated group of task force members Other Community Health establishment in an attempt to buy a
including elected officials,physicians, Collaborations tobacco product.In total,there were
service providers,social service seventy completed checks and thirteen
agencies,clergy,parents,young people The Health Department continued to violations involving a tobacco sale to a
and individuals in recovery.The goals participate in town wide health initiatives minor in Watertown,resulting in a failure
within the action plan include enhancing such as Wayside Youth and Family rate of 19%.
prevention and education activities NetworlCs"Massachusetts Opioid Abuse
on substance use disorder,supporting Prevention Coalition;'"Crime and The violators were issued non-criminal
intervention strategies,and enhancing Safety,"and"Substance Abuse Prevention tickets,three received suspensions of
treatment and recovery support.Erasing Collaborative"grants and Watertown's their Tobacco Sales Permits,and all were
the stigma of substance use disorder and Public Schools Wellness Committee. educated on the Tobacco and Nicotine
approaching this issue with compassion Delivery Products Regulation including
and thoughtfulness are key strategies. Watertown Task Force how to check for proper identification.
Accomplishments in 2015 included a The Health Department assisted residents
week of education and support on Erasing who needed help in resolving housing and
the Stigma,including school events, public health/medical related issues.The
a community wide awareness event,a Health Department's inter-departmental
robust public awareness campaign with task force continued to address the needs
billboards,banners,and public service of residents in crisis.The task forte's
announcements(PSAs),distribution of red unique collaboration includes members
ribbons,a proclamation by Town Council, from the Police Department,Fire
support for a candlelight vigil organized Department,School Department,Health
by Watertown Overcoming Addiction Department,Housing Authority,Council
and Watertown Against Substance on Aging,Food Pantry,Veterans Office,
Abuse,implementation of a drug take Riverside Community Center,Advocates
back program and enhanced sharps Inc.,Mt.Auburn Hospital and,Springwell
collection program,expanded training on Social Services,and provides much needed
and use of nasal naloxone,development services for Watertown residents.
of an informational services brochure,
and funding support for a Coordinator In the year 2015 the Health Department
position through Watertown Community continued with the implementation of the
Foundation. "Compassionate Connections V"and"Lee
ManilW'grants from the Marshall Home
Fund and Mass Housing.With these grants
the Health Department was able provide
39
TOTAL REVENUE RECEIVED FOR Prepared by:Deborah M.Rosati,MS,RS,
2015 Director of Public Health
January $2,080.00 With thanks to Marie Chiavelli,Head
Clerk;Wil vanDinter,Public Health Nurse;
February $1,780.00 Karen O'Reilly,Animal Control Officer/
March $675.00 Jr.Health Officer,and Kristel Bennett,
April $1,465.00 Chief Environmental Health Officer for
collecting data,formatting and crafting
May $6,665.00 this report
June $3,225.00
July $795.00
August $840.00
September $1,925.00
October $5,816.80
November $26,930.00
December $9,155.00
Total $61,351.80
Seasonal Influenza $9,083.31
Reimbursement
Emergency
Preparedness $8,769.51
Grants
Community $18,263.27
Health Grants
Total $97,467.89
40
COUNCIL ON AGING (CON
A YEAR OF TRANSITION included a speaker from the Registry of the COA also made contributions to
of Motor Vehicles,who talked about this important service.This program
The Council on Aging/Senior Center safe driving and a representative from provides taxi rides when other modes of
welcomed two new staff members, the Watertown Police Department who transportation like the Senior Shuttle or
replacing two individuals who retired. informed seniors about scams.Watertown's Busy Bee(our medical transportation
The new case worker,Marina Kirsanova, Veteran Agent presented information vendor)are not available.
is fluent in Armenian and Russian and about services available to veterans and
has been able to assist many Watertown their spouses.Several classes were help, Many volunteers assisted the staff in
residents whose primary language is including self defense against an aggressor, setting up and running the fund-raising
Russian or Armenian.Through her an interesting perspective on maintaining yard sale in May.A lot of time,planning,
previous experience,including with fitness as we age,medication safety,and and work goes into this joint venture.
Springwell,the local area agency on A.A.Russo presented on the nutritional This year,the sale made over twenty-five
aging,she has an excellent knowledge of values of fruits and vegetables.There also hundred dollars.
senior services and how to access them. was a lecture on home modifications and a
Deborah Dunn was promoted to Program series on financial planning. The COA has administrative oversight
Coordinator,after twenty years as the over the Watertown Food Pantry.This year
COAs Principle Account Clerk.She has The Senior Center presented several arts Watertown residents,organization,and
been setting up and promoting new and programs.Two special theatre productions businesses were very generous with money
interesting lectures and programs as well as were held.The New Repertory Theatre and food donations enabling the pantry
updating the Senior Center town website with grant funding from the Marshall to continue to provide nutritious food for
and monthly newsletter.Rae Grassia,also Home Fund presented"A Midsummer's Watertown residents.
a Town employee for many years,left her Night Dream"and the Delvena Theatre
position at the Commander's Mansion to performed"Roosevelt's Womei'with During 2015,Michael Donham retired
become the new Principal Account Clerk. partial funding from the Watertown from the COA Board after many years
She quickly became a welcoming presence Cultural Council.A jazz musical was of service and Bertha Anderson was
at the front desk and does the financial funded by Home Instead Senior Care and appointed as the new member.
record-keeping for the department. we held a concert featuring Broadway
show tunes.Local author Kathleen
A new exercise program was initiated Rowe spoke about her book"Exploring
in 2015.A requested exercise,Zumba the Charles River"and Terrie Drew,a
Gold,is now held weekly.It features high Mi'Kmaq Indian tribal member,shared the
energy music with modified moves and cultural heritage of her tribe and Native
pacing to suit the needs of the active older Americans.In December we held a floral
participants,as well as those just starting arranging workshop and a lecture on our
an exercise program. choices of color and the influences they
have on us. "
This year,Senator Brownsberger's office
sponsored the registration of new The Marshall Home Fund awarded
applicants for the MBTAs senior Charlie the COA a grant for its Supplemental New Senior Center zumba Gold class with instructor
Card passes.Lectures held in 2015 Transportation Program and the Friends Joanna Grubel
41
RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Organization Notify Me:www.watertown-ma.gov _
The mission of the Watertown Recreation The department has a standard practice _
Department is to provide the citizens of offering our"Open Forum"meetings
of the Town of Watertown with varied on the first Tuesday of the month.This and comprehensive passive and active is an opportunity for the department to r
recreational,leisure and seasonal share and receive information with the
opportunities for a wide range of age community on a consistent basis.
groups and abilities.
The department utilizes the PEAK
The Department of Recreation has three registration and permitting software.The Live well Community Form,,:March 8
full time employees.Director Peter online program accounted for 38%in the
Centola,Assistant Director,Ernie Thebado amount of this year's registrations and
and Head Clerk,Maureen Foley are the has provided the ability to register for
administrative team of the department. programs and make payments with debit
This year,we employed 103 seasonal and credit cards or checks 24 hours a day,
employees,mostly during the summer 7 days a week.
months.Recreation staff instruct and
supervise the various programs of the This is an effort to improve the process of
department during the year. registration,tracking and communicating
to the participants of the activities as
Snowshoe Event,Gore Estate:February 21
Department Initiatives,Expanded well as improving the organization of the
Services and Communication permit process for both field and picnic
facilities.
The Department of Recreation assesses
its policies and procedures on a regular New Initiatives and Special Events
basis in an effort to create a more effective,
efficient and user friendly department for The Recreation Department enjoyed a
the residents of Watertown and its full year of cooperation and colaboration
time,part time and seasonal employees. with several entities during 2015 for
the enjoyment and education of many
The department utilizes the"Document segments of our community.
Center"on the town website which
corresponds with these groups and In conjuction with Live Well Watertown, ylb
all documents pertaining to program under the direction of Stephnie Venizelos,
information,permits and employment and the finanical support of a$3000.00
forms among others,are included in grant from the Marshall Home Fund,the
appropriate folders.All activities,meetings Recreation Department offered many
and special events are included in the programs or events that supported healthy
"Recreation and Town Calendar"section and wellness behavoirs.
of the website.
Major events included our Snowshoeing
Mount Auburn Cemetery Tour:November 7
The Town's"Notify Me"is used on a event held at the Gore Estate on February
regular basis to disseminate information 21,Community Forum held on March 8 On the heals of the successful Cops and
to our residents while social media promoting a discussion on healthy living Kids Program and the Police Athletic
contributes greatly to the communication and our Walking Tour at the Mount League in the late 1990's,the Police and
of News and Notes from the department. Auburn Cemetery on November 7. Recreation Departments teamed up to
Facebook,Twitter and Instagram are an offer a couple of major family events as
integral part of our communication. Live Well Watertown also sponsored an well as a newly named Cops and Rec
Healthy Eating and Cooking Series at Program serving the youth residents.
Facebook:http://www.facebook.coinl various locations in the Town which was
WatertownRecreationDepartment very well received. On July 17'and August 8"',Family Movie
Twitter:@Watertownrec nights were held at the renovated park
Twitter:@Watsummerhoop behind the police station.Close to 250
Instagram:watertownrecreation residents enjoyed food and refreshements,
42
played games,activities and finished the In 2015,the Watertown Recreation
night with a family friendly movie. Department entered into a partnership
with the Launch Trampoline Park to offer
resonably priced access to this facility. -
From the beginning,trampoline dodgeball
was the game of choice for the our separate
high school,middle school and elementary
groups as the numbers of participants were . .
close to capitity for the fall,winter and `.
Y`
_ spring seasons.
First Family-Casey Outdoor Ice Rink
glow
-
i
Hockey Fun-Casey Outdoor Ice Rink
r Some of our most popular and well
Family Movie Night at Park Behind Police station attended programs are included in this
summary: Pequossette Summer Program,
In addtion in hosting two successful Summer and Fall Tennis,Adult Tennis,
movie nights during the summer of 2015, Summer Parks Program,Flag Football,All
the Cops and Rec tandem began offering ► - Sports,Junior All Sports,Junior Creative
Crafts,Super Saturdays,Floor Hockey,
active programming primarily focus
on middle school age children,but also _W Little Shooters,Blue Belles Baton,Vacation
branched off to other age groups with Programs,Friday Night Open Gym,
some of the programs. Dodgeball at Launch Trampoline Park Community Sports and Games,Middle
and High School Basketball,Wachusett Ski
Some of the more successful programs Special thanks to the Watertown Boy's and and Board Program,Show Must Go On,
were our Cops and Rec Hockey played Girls Club and Director Renee Guadette Adult Summer Men's Basketball,Belmont
at our new outdoor rink at Casey Park for caloborating with the department in S.P.O.R.T,Pre-Kindergarten Indoor/
for elementary to middle school age several opportunities during the year.We Outdoor Sports,and Men's Basketball
participants.Also included under this utilized their facility in August to support Open Gym,
umbrella were yoga,flag football and our two week program that needed to
basketball for middle school students. be offered after the Pequossette Summer Our ed hugely sucequossettecessful
Summer Day Camp
program ended.In additon as well as the enjoyed a hugely successful year in 2015.
Club is the home for for our indoor PreK This program serves our children,grades
program. kindergarten through 8�'grade and
averaged 212 weekly participants.
Programming Opportunites
Our program offerings for all ages and
interests was increased in 2015 in terms
of participation and number of offerings.
F -- In addition,our outdoor skating rink
If provided some winter ice time for our
residents at Casey Park.
I _
/ Memorial Day Parade Blue Belles
Cops and Rec Street Hockey at Casey Park
43
1 Revenues and Other Items
Jl ` �IRi
T -'� Total revenues from programs and other
_ - sources totaled over$487,917 during the
2015 calendar year.These monies were tk 1
1 used to fund many of the department's +
_ programs and events. Permit revenue
from rental of fields,courts and picnic N
tables and grills other than Arsenal Park
were$105,236.The income from permits
Summer staff at Victory Field on July 4" including Arsenal Park totaled$31,156.
Our Belmont S.P.O.R.T Program,which The department worked with many
services our special needs residents in groups and individuals to arrange for field,
Watertown as well as the surrounding court and picnic facility use during 2015.
communities,continues to be well received Approximately 712 permits were issued to
by the special needs community. the many groups, ► l
organizations and families that applied. 1► 0
The department also offers tickets to
family events.Those offered this season Field and Picnic Permits were issued to the
Victory Artificial Turf Field:Lowell School Field Day
include The Big Apple Circus,Harlem major users such as the Watertown School and 2015 Graduation
Globetrotters,Ringling Brothers and Department,Watertown Youth Sports
Barnum&Bailey Circus,Boston Celtics Organization in addition to multiple The Watertown Recreation Department
and Boston Bruins. church groups,civic organizations, would like to thank Town Departments
businesses and residents for their use for their assistance overl the past year.
Capital Improvements of the athletic fields,basketball,hockey Without their help and that of many of
and tennis courts as well as the beautiful our fine citizens,we would not be able
Public meetings were held regarding the picnics areas at Arsenal Park and Filippello to provide the towifs people many of the
renovation of the entry to Filippello Park Park. quality recreational programs that we offer.
(Grove Street Side and some positive
movement toward finalizing a design We would also like to thank the Town
plan was made.Major components of the Council and Town Manager,Michael
conceptual design plan includes a grand J.Driscoll for their support of the
entry way,open space greenway,hard department's many endeavors.
court multi-purpose surface and a dog
park. The plans for the Victory Track, Respectfully Submitted,
Court and Field renovation are still is the
initial design phase at this time. Peter Centola,
Director of Recreation
44
WATERTOWN FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Library Director: Programming and their parents that stimulated a lot of
Leone Cole interest in the program.With intensive
The Library offers a robust schedule of publicity efforts the Club was completely
Library Trustees: events for infants through seniors.In filled.There were 23 girls enrolled who
Michael Hanlon,Chair 2015 programming was funded through committed to the long-term program.
Tim Tracy,Vice Chair the Charles Burke Fund,Watertown
Raya Stern,Treasurer Free Public Library(WFPL)Building .This year marked the 100th anniversary
Katherine Button,Secretary Committee,the Watertown Community of the Armenian genocide.With
Gracemarie LeBlanc,Trustee Foundation,Watertown Commission on Watertown's substantial Armenian
Carol Tierney,Trustee Disability,and special gifts that include population in mind,we chose Chris
contributions from the Arsenal Project and Bohjalian's The Sandcastle Girls as our
the Watertown Savings Bank Customer One Book,One Watertown read as to
Collection Development and Choice Awards. commemorate this tragic event.We offered
Maintenance a variety of programs about Armenian
Total Attendance history and culture including the jazz-
17,189 items were added to the collection: Programs inspired Armenian folk melodies of
A,.uono� ❑6a v1t m„ m o1� c<a Chlldren's 417 15,015
Musaner. We were honored to host Mr.
Bo k1 Ca , CDs T1 Bohjalian for a fantastic evening with
AAdL(m<IuAmg 345 5968 44 4N8 696 9941 Teen 181 2,518
traditional Armenian food catered by
�h,lded, 101 5111 76 '1 3" 91E 5
T-, 394 3M7 Adult 235 4,666 Sevan Bakery.The event was standing
Orotit 754 13699 514 sag 1913 19169 room only.
Project 866 10,747
In general,our collection development
Literacy
and maintenance was routine with a few Grand 1,699 32,946
noteworthy changes. Total
•The children's Easy Reader collection Programming Highlights for 2015 S+
now has two small collections within ~
it:one for letter books and one for pre- .The kickoff program for Children's
readers.These act as a precursor to the Summer Reading was a big success as Emily Miranda,Supervisor of Children's Services,
Easy Reading collection,and all are author and illustrator Jarrett J.Krosoczka kicks off summer Reading
shelved together for ease of use by patrons, visited the library.Together with police
officers from Massachusetts Institute of -
•Thanks to a grant from the Watertown Technology,Massachusetts State Police,
Commission on Disability,we were the �•
Y and Watertown Police Department he ._• •�
first library in the Minuteman Library conducted some light readers theatre
Network to create a collection of feature based on his book series Platvuus Police
films in American Sign Language(ASL). Squad.New England Cable News(NECN)
and Watertown Cable Access Channel
•This year Teen staff paid special attention (WCAC)filmed the event,which was
in our evaluating our efforts to increase included in NECN's summer«Making the
circulation.The new Express books and Grade"series about avoidin learnin loss
g g the Adult Reference Department
new fiction collections go out twice as in the summer months. poses with author Chris Bohjahan.
often even though there is a shorter loan
period.Another popular new collection .Teen Department staff applied for and Outreach and Community Collaboration
is YA FUN!,a totally browsable non- won approval for a Girls Who Code Club
fiction collection that has books on that began meeting in October for a period •To promote our new collections of
gaming,makerspace topics,and humor as of twenty-five weeks.The Girls Who Code movies in American Sign Language,we
examples. program is a national initiative to teach put together a YouTube video announcing
computer coding in a fun way.Three the new collection.
volunteer instructors helped participating
girls gain confidence to hopefully help .In October,with the help of Hosmer
close the gender gap in the computer and School Librarian Anne Reid,the Children's
engineering career fields.There was a Department held a library card signup
huge turnout at the open house for girls drive,and issued 229 new cards to patrons.
45
The Teen Department held a library card •The library held its second annual 5K risk young children the Parent-Child
drive in January,registering 50 new users Road Race in June.We had approximately Home Project identified as needing help
from the Junior class so that they could 150 runners and raised over$2,000 for the with their English skills.Jeri Bayer,the
access databases to study for the SATs. library. supervisor of Project Literacy,attended
meetings of the town-wide service
•Funding was secured from the providers to share information about
Watertown Commission on Disabilities in resources and common concerns.
the amount of$600 to begin regular library ° -
programming for adults with cognitive 1 Customer Service
and developmental disabilities which we
have named"Library Insiders"Library Our staff is dedicated to providing
staff initiated a pilot program with the _ excellent service to all library users.Below
Beaverbrook Options agency which was 1, 4 A we highlight ways we have demonstrated
very successful and personally fulfilling y our commitment to excellent service as
for library staff.The purpose of the well as feedback we have received from
Library Insiders is to create a welcoming patrons during the year.
environment for this population to 2015 SK Road Race
encourage confidence when they use •Reading lights were installed in the
library services and interact with staff. •In late September the Library was periodicals Room,and patrons comment
informed that the Best Buy grant that on it constantly.
Carey Conkey and Caitlin Browne worked
on was awarded close to$10,000 for the -The addition of a glass sound barrier
proposal entitled"HATCH:Leveling the between the Periodicals Room and the
Playing Field"Working with Janet Buck, noisy main hallway,has made a world of
volunteer coordinator at HATCH,library difference to the patrons who study in
staff and volunteers brought technology- there.
related activities to underserved 13-15
year olds,including robotics.The grant .patrons now have the option to register
was awarded because of wonderful for events online
collaboration between the Library,the
Watertown Boys and Girls Club and the A new program called e-Tea was created
Housing Authority. to provide weekly tech help sessions for
•The library was represented at the patrons who need more in depth tech
�.�� Watertown Farmer's Market at the assistance than can be accommodated on
Watertown Arsenal and Food Truck With an on-desk librarian,
Librarian Ellie Lyman has fun with a participant Wednesday at the Arsenal Project during
during Library Insiders.
the summer. �1
•Students from Perkins School for the
Blind continue to come weekly to the •Project Literacy again hosted a series
Department for a community immersion of four community potluck suppers,
experience and a chance to try out a co-sponsored with other Watertown
work-like setting.Six students dust the organizations(World in Watertown,
library shelves that not only helps keep the Watertown Citizens for Peace,Justice and
Department tidy,it is a way for them to the Environment,the Sister City Project,
work on spatial orientation skills. and the Friends of Project Literacy).
The purpose of these suppers is to better
Patrons enjoying the new reading lamps in the
.The Adult Department was pleased welcome and integrate the immigrants of Periodicals Room
to build bridges to the community our town.
throughout 2015. In January,we co- From the patrons
sponsored(with Armenian International •In May,nearly 40 Project Literacy
learners and several of our teachers "Whydo I need to spend money I don't
Women(AIWA),ProjectSAVE Armenian in the community-wide wide p y
Photograph Archives,World in participated y- have to bring more books I don't have
Watertown,and Amnesty International) volunteer day organized by the Watertown room for into my house-and clutter the
Turkish authors Fethiye Cetin and Ayse Community Foundation to help other not- planet with more paper,besides?!This is
Gul Altinay to speak on their book,The for-profits. awesome!"He also said it had been years
Grandchildren:The Hidden Legacy of since he's been inside a library,but that
"Lost"Armenians in Turkey. •Project Literacy regularly collaborated he'll be back.
with the Parent-Child Home Project,
matching tutors with mothers of at-
46
-Spoken by patron who came in sure we Professional Development participate in their community,and
would not have the new book he just saw at navigate critical systems in American
a bookstore,but said he was short on cash All library staff participated in Mental culture.
and thought he'd give us a whirl. We had Health First Aid training given by
two copies of the book he was after. Wayside.This intention of this training Last year we served approximately 350
"The library has been a terrific resource was to give staff a deeper understanding immigrants through our seven levels of
and a godsend for me." of certain mental illness as well as evening English language classes taught
information on when to help when to find by paid professional teachers,the addition
--Spoken by a patron who has come in someone else to help. of more daytime classes,computer and
regularly for job searching. citizenship classes,conversation groups,
and tutoring by 100 trained volunteers.
"I had no idea anyone still built or
maintained public libraries like...THIS!" Particularly significant was the continued
She began to walk away,and then turned offering through special grants from
back and said,"You all give me hope for - the Bilezikian Family Foundation and
the future.Thank you' First Literacy of our evening class that
addressed the needs of immigrants who
Innovation ' never had the opportunity to attend school
in their country of origin and so are
•In the fall the switchover to Radio completely lacking in literacy skills.
Frequency Identication(RFID)security proud staff members Karen Robbins,Janet Brogan,
system began.We have purchased the and Maureen Liberatore posing with their cardboard This year Project Literacy participated
equipment needed to connect RFID tags tables as part of a staff skillbuild design challenge. in the Summer Reading Program;we
with our library software and are tagging encouraged as many learners as possible
every item in the collection. All library staff participated in a variety to read Seedfolks,a short novel about
of WFPL Skillbuilds which are internal the creation of a community garden in
•We introduced new hardware in 2015, workshops and trainings to help with team an inner-city neighborhood.Volunteers
including two Apple iMacs,a laptop building and service skills. facilitated a number of discussions and
charging station and a new microfilm a field trip was taken to the Watertown
scanner. Denise Robinson,Children's Librarian, Community Garden on Grove Street.
presented at the annual Massachusetts
•The Children's Department adjusted the Library Association(MLA)conference in Project Literacy worked closely with
schedule of story times to accommodate May about early childhood spaces. the Friends of Project Literacy to raise
more participants without feeling funds to support our evening classes and
overcrowded. Kelly Deneen,Teen Librarian,attended other elements of the program.Through
PAX East,a regional conference on outreach to individuals and grants from
•The library opened the doors to its the world of games. Her experience foundations,the Friends were able to raise
makerspace,HATCH,in January.HATCH there directly impacted department over$40,000 for this purpose.
is located at the Arsenal Project. programming in what was offered.Carey
Conkey,Supervisor of Teen Services, Learners with Project Literacy frequently
•Software that is available at HATCH was attended webinars on"making"in the expressed how much the services they
added to the teen Digital Media Lab so library and"unprogramming";both receive from Project Literacy meant to
teens can create their projects here at the focused on moving away from traditional them.These are just a few comments:
library and take them to the makerspace to programming that emphasizes on
use the 3D printer. participants creating a finished product—it
is the process and exploration that should
be the program focus.
Caitlin Browne,Assistant Director,made a
presentation about HATCH at Fab11,the
international conference for the Fab Lab
Network held annually. r
E
�. `
Project Literacy
One of two new iMac stations located outside of the Project Literacy helps English language
Students and helpers in the Introduction to
Mastrangelo Room on the second floor. learners to improve their language skills Computers class.
so that they can effectively communicate
on behalf of themselves and their families,
gain and succeed in employment,
47
7like Project literacy because I can read, HATCH we offered a variety of classes including
write and speak better." soldering,3D modeling and design,
HATCH is a makerspace made possible e-textiles,screen printing,and more.
"Project Literacy helped me speak better.I through the generosity of the Arsenal
get a new job in American company.I make Project who provides us retail space rent �� !+
the interview and had a new job!" free.We provide space,tools,equipment,
and materials available for your use—it's
My class has helped me to speak my like a public workshop.We have 3D 1 _
thoughts and ideas with my grandchildren printers,a laser cutter,a vinyl cutter,a
and so much more." Computer Numerical Control(CNC)
router,a soldering station,and sewing
machines as well as basic hand tools and
crafting supplies.It is free and open to
adults and children over 8.
HATCH is managed by the library and Learning to solder at HATCH.
staffed by a robust of highly skilled
volunteers.Overseeing volunteers is Janet
Buck,Volunteer Coordinator.
After a successful soft opening in October
of 2014 our grand opening in January was
A volunteer helping students in a morning class at a smashing success.Throughout the year
the library.
48
VETERANS' SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Departmental Overview Department of Veteran Affairs may issue employment opportunities,and housing
an additional payment for those who meet options.Applications are available for VA
The Watertown Veterans'Services set criteria.The benefit is contingent upon programs such as Home Loans,Vocational
Department offers assistance to veterans eligibility of the basic pension benefit. Rehabilitation and Employment,and Life
and their dependents in all Federal and Insurance.
State benefits and services. Dependents'and Survivors Benefits
Recent Events
Financial and Medical Assistance Dependency and Indemnity Compensation
Available The U.S.Department of Veterans Affairs Memorial Day 2015
may issue monetary benefits to survivors In the weeks leading up to Memorial
Chapter 115 Public Assistance of service members who died on active Day 2015,grave flags were available for
Under Chapter 115 of Massachusetts duty,died from service-related disabilities, Watertown residents free of charge for
General laws(M.G.L.c. 115),the or certain veterans who were being paid deceased Veterans.Flags were ready for
Commonwealth provides a uniform 100%disability compensation at time of pick-up in the Watertown Veterans'Office.
program of financial and medical death. Watertown Veterans made their traditional
assistance for indigent veterans and their school visitations at all Watertown
dependents.Qualifying veterans and their Death Pension Public Schools.All Watertown Veterans
dependents receive necessary financial Certain low-income surviving spouses Organizations worked together to place
assistance for food,shelter,clothing, and children of deceased wartime veterans flags at Veteran's graves in town cemeteries,
housing supplies,and medical care. maybe entitled to receive a Death Pension and wreaths at fifty locations around
from the U.S.Department of Veterans' Watertown(memorial parks,veteran's
Pensions Affairs. squares,streets named after veterans,
Low-income wartime Veterans may be etc).The parade was a wonderful way for
eligible to receive a pension from the U.S. Education Benefits Watertown to showcase its commitment in
Department of Veterans Affairs.Eligibility honoring the sacrifices of our fallen men
is income based,and Veterans must be Various education benefits are available and women of the military.The parade's
65 years of age or older or be totally and to Veterans through the U.S.Department success was a direct result of the efforts of
permanently disabled. of Veterans Affairs,as well as programs all of our sponsors,participants,residents,
specific to Massachusetts.Navigation and parade-watchers of all ages.
VA Boston Health Care System through appropriate benefits and school
Veterans can receive health care services searches can be coordinated in the
from a number of local VA Medical Watertown Veterans'Services Department.
Facilities.Applications are filled out and
sent to the desired facility's eligibility Burial Benefits
office.Inpatient,outpatient,dental,
pharmacy,prosthetic,women's health Headstones and Markers
services and many others can be received Applications are available to receive
through the VA Health Care System. Government issued headstones and
markers to eligible Veterans through The
Disability Compensation U.S.Department of Veterans Affairs.
The U.S.Department of Veterans Affairs
offers a tax free benefit to Veterans who Reimbursement for Burial Expenses
currently have a disability that is the Eligible Veterans maybe entitled to Veterans'services Officer and United states Marine
result of an injury,disease,or an event reimbursement of up to$2000 towards Veteran,Ed Aucoin,place flags at Ridgelawn
in military service.Applications and expenses for funeral and burial expenses. cemetery and raise the National Ensign before
the Memorial Day Parade 2015. Photo by Charlie
guidance are offered in the Watertown Breitrose,Watertown Patch.
Veterans'Services Department for those Additional Programs
who are eligible.
Information regarding all State and Federal
Aid and Attendance&Housebound Programs related to Veterans can be
Benefits sought through the Watertown Veterans'
In some cases,a Veteran or surviving Services Department.Massachusetts is
spouse requires the aid of another person at the forefront of Veterans benefits and
in order to perform his or hers activities offers a vast array of Veterans'benefits
of daily living,and/or are housebound such as tax exemptions,education
due their medical condition. The U.S. programs,bonuses and annuities,
49
Purple Heart Community 100 people in the community.The concert
On October 13th,2015 Watertown became was orchestrated by Watertown's own Don
recognized as a Purple Heart Community. Pentelton and The Hal McIntyre Band.
WAR A special ceremony was held outside
Town Hall with participation from the National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Town Police and Fire Honor Guards as On December 7,2015 at 12:00pm,
well as Watertown's own Marine Corps The Watertown Veterans'Services
nau�[�trtpww� League Honor Guard.There were families Department and The Watertown Veterans'
�OQ A of deceased Purple Heart recipients in Organizations held a brief observance to
attendance and several of WatertowrA own honor all those who died in the attack on
Combat wounded Purple Heart Recipients. Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
The Watertown High School Band played
At a Ceremony held October 201 the National Anthem and the Ceremony
Watertown became a Purple Heart Community.
Watertown recognizes the sacrifice of their own ended with a tribute to all deceased Purple
Combat Wounded Veterans.Photo by Charlie Heart recipients with the playing of TAPS.
Breitrose,Watertown Patch
Veterans Day
9111 Recognition A breakfast and Ceremony was held
Town employees,local Veterans on Wednesday,November 11,2015 at
Organizations,and the public gathered in 11:00am at the Private Charles J.Shutt
front of Town Hall for a moment of silence Detachment,Marine Corps League on
while listening to TAPS to recognize the Mount Auburn Street.A Salute to Veterans
men and women who lost their lives on Concert was held that evening at the
September I I1h,2001. Watertown Middle School attracting over
50
JOH N A. RYAN ARENA
The John A.Ryan Arena,located at 1 School,Bishop Guertin High School, Pantry.This year was the 5"'annual and
Paramount Place,continues to provide Burlington High School,Chelmsford High the proceeds are a big help to the Food
the residents of Watertown and area School,Hingham High School,Lincoln- Pantry.A continued tradition has been
communities the opportunity to provide Sudbury High School,Reading Memorial the support of the Pennies for Patients
ice skating and hockey programs to their High School,St.John's Preparatory;St. Fundraiser hosted at the Ryan Arena in co-
constituents.The Arena is the home to Johns Shrewsbury High School,St.Peter's operation with the efforts of the students at
many local groups.In Watertown,the Marian,St.Mary's High School and the Watertown Middle School during the
arena is the proud home of the Watertown Waltham High School.The league plays month of March.
High School Boys and Girls hockey teams. its games on Sunday mornings during the
The Boys team,under the guidance of high school winter sports season. In addition,we continue our outreach
Head Coach Michael Hayes and assistant to the Perkins School to provide ice
Coach and Watertown High Graduate Other local youth hockey groups that skating for their students.To see the
Jamie Venezia,started off in 2015 where benefit from their programs using the accomplishments of these students is a
they left off the previous season.The John A.Ryan Arena are the Belmont special day for all of those involved.
Boys Varsity team celebrated its first State Youth Hockey,Newton Youth Hockey,and
Championship,winning the final game Waltham Youth Hockey Leagues.This year, The Ryan Arena continues to make
at the TD Garden.The middle school the Arena welcomed the Middlesex Girls infrastructure improvements to the facility.
program continues to compete under the Yankee Conference as well as the Valley A new roof was erected,replacing the
guidance of Head Coach and Watertown Youth Hockey Leagues.Both of these original structure that was installed in
High School Graduate Michael Venezia leagues provide games for many area teams 1972.The new roof,along with the energy
and assistant coach John Sorabella. including teams from the Watertown efficient Low Emissions ceiling,has been
The girls'team,under the guidance of Youth Hockey. a great help in creating and maintaining a
Watertown High School graduate Steve top notch ice surface.
Russo,continues to grow its program. Once again,the Arena is proud to host the
While starting a new co-operative Varsity Boston College Men's'Ice Hockey team of The John A.Ryan Arena serves the
team with Belmont High,the program Hockey East at various times throughout Town of Watertown and its surrounding
continue to attract more girls to the John the season.The Eagles are coached by communities by providing a top-notch
A.Ryan Arena.The Girls captured its third Watertown native Jerry York. and safe facility.The Staff looks forward
consecutive Middlesex League Freedom to serving the community and its needs in
Division championship and competed in The Arena continues to offer Public the future.
the state tournament in 2014-15. Skating on the weekends and continued
our offering of skating lessons during the The Ryan Arena could not operate
The Watertown Youth Hockey program is Sunday afternoon public skating sessions. without the co-operation of so many
also based out of the John A.Ryan Arena. people throughout the community.
Under the new leadership of President Once again,the highlight of the season We would like to thank the Watertown
Brendan Dickie,the program continues continues to be the selection of a host Police Department,the Watertown
to grow,offering something for the very site by the Massachusetts Interscholastic Fire Department,the Watertown
young in a Learn-To-Skate a full scale Athletic Association for high school state School Department and especially the
Midget program for high school aged tournament ice hockey games.The MIAA Watertown Department of Public Works
players. has once again shown the confidence in for all their assistance during the 2015 ice
the staff of the arena to host these highly hockey season.Your assistance is greatly
The Arena is also the home to Bentley competitive games.We look forward appreciated.
University,St.Joseph's Preparatory High to continued success and co-operation
School and Newton South High School. with the MIAA in being a part of their The 2015 season was once again a very
Bentley University,a Division 1 college tournaments for the years to come. busy season at the John A.Ryan Arena.
hockey program,competes in the NCAAs With the vision to continue to provide
Atlantic Hockey league.During their past We continue to reach out in various the community with a first class facility,
season,Bentley continues to grow the aspects of the community.A joint venture the staff looks forward to serving all of its
program with another successful season. PTO ice skating event is held each year patrons in 2016.
Both St.Joseph's Prep and Newton South with participants from the Cunniff,
High School both play all of their home Hosmer and Lowell Schools participating Respectfully Submitted,
games at the John A.Ryan Arena. with the PTOs of those schools the
benefactor.On January 1,2015 the 5"' Daniel E Brothers,Skating Rink Director
The Arena also hosts the highly annual New Year's Day skating party John A.Ryan Arena
competitive Catholic Central Junior to benefit the Watertown Food Pantry.
Varsity Hockey League.This league has Organized by Watertown resident Michael
participants from Arlington Catholic High Venezia,this event is Welcome the New
School,Austin Prep School,Arlington Year skating party,with all the proceeds
High School,Archbishop Williams High being donated to the Watertown Food
51
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
AF In 2015,The DPW began a comprehensive best management practices as part of a
review and update of several regulations, road reconstruction project on Edenfield
policies and ordinances including: Avenue.
Watertown Dmarft error
PIA hiFjC grk
T -"Sanitary Sewer and Storm Drains In 2015,the Department of Public Works
Regulations." These regulations include worked on long range planning projects
We're all about ...this town.- provisions for storm drainage connections for future improvements:
to the Town system,public and private
Administration sewers,prohibited discharges,and other •A DPW Sub-committee meeting was
The Department of Public Works(DPW) specifics. held on May 14,2015 to discuss the
Common Street road project,followed
Administration manages public relations .DPW began a comprehensive review by two additional meetings with direct
and information,permits,departmental and update of its"Water Regulations" abutters on June 18 and July 21. The
payroll,purchasing,invoicing,accounting,water and sewer billing,commercial These regulations include provisions for meetings were well-attended. As a result trash collection billing,cemetery connecting to the Town's water supply, of resident comments,many modifications records,funding issues surrounding all metering,fire protection,cross-connection have been made to the conceptual design.
control,and other specifics. The current design was provided to the
construction contracts as well as interfaces
Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee for
with state and federal agencies. The office .DPW began a comprehensive review and review and comment and was also on
staff also maintains communications with update of its"Street Opening Rules and display at Faire on the Square. Overall
the contractor providing residential Regulations:' These regulations include response has been positive. DPW
trashh removal,and handles public provisions for obtaining permits from looks forward to presenting the current
relations,data collection and analysis,and DPW to excavate in a public way,methods conceptual design at another DPW
State reporting requirements regarding of excavation,backfill and paving,as well Sub-committee meeting and discussing
trash collection and recycling. as traffic control and work zone safety. funding options as part of the capital
planning process.
The events of the historic snowfall in .DPW,working with the Department of
January and February of 2015 had a large Community Development and Planning •A DPW Sub-committee meeting was
impact on the Department not only in (DCDP),began developing a set of held on May 14,2015 to discuss the Mt.
the winter,but the subsequent spring "Transportation Impact Study Guidelines:' Auburn Street road project,based on
and summer.Snow storms of January 26, The purpose of the document will be to the conceptual design approved by the
February 2,February and February 14- assist Town departments in reviewing Public Works Sub-committee in March,
came in quick succession making snow traffic and transportation impacts 2011. DPW continues to develop the
removal a challenge. The Department associated with development. design and looks forward to working with
Public Works also received reimbursement
the Sub-committee to include additional
of w storm
from
for the January me28, cy The Department along with the public involvement.DPW proceeded with
snow storm from the Federal Emergency stormwater advisory committee and preliminary designs for improvements
Management Agency. DCDP,began drafting and reviewing a to the intersection of Main Street and
new stormwater ordinance. Waverley Avenue. DPW also proposes to
reconstruct Main Street from Waverley
.The Department along with the DCDP Avenue east to Thaxter Street as part
s� �f and Public Works Subcommittee,drafted a of the project. Included in the work
complete streets policy. would be: new signalization at Waverley
Avenue,construction of accessible ramps
The Town of Watertown also applied for and damaged sidewalks throughout the
and was subsequently awarded a grant corridor,installation of conduit,extension
from the Massachusetts Department of bicycle accommodations on Main Street,
of Environmental Protection to fund geometric changes,traffic calming features
various planning activities that support at minor intersections and crosswalks,and
identification and implementation of tree plantings.This year,DPW worked
green infrastructure and other techniques with National Grid to expedite relocation
to reduce non-point source pollution of an existing high pressure gas regulator
and improve water quality in impaired pit located in the intersection of Main
waters.The Department also was awarded Street and Myrtle Street. This work,which
Sidewalk snow Clearing a second grant to implement stormwater is currently under construction,must be
52
completed before road reconstruction can of grave plots,preparation of graves,and Highway
begin. oversight of funerals at Town cemeteries.
In 2015,the Division handled 120 burial The Highway Division is responsible for
.DPW also engaged Fay,Spofford& and 32 cremations and 28 graves were maintenance and repair of approximately
Thorndike,LLC to prepare a conceptual sold.The Cemetery Division also installed 72 miles of roadway and 144 miles of
design of the missing segments of the a new 60'flagpole.The Cemetery Division sidewalk,as well as maintenance and
Watertown Community Path. The study also continued the project of digitizing repair of paved areas abutting or contained
area begins at the intersection of Arsenal burial records which can be found at the within Town facilities.In 2015,the
Street and Irving Street,where the current Department's website Highway Division also performed the
path is being extended to by developers www.watertowndpw.org following duties:
at the Pirolli site,and continues to
Taylor Street,Baptist Walk,through the Central Motors •Oversaw contracted services:crack
municipal lot and to Saltonstall Park. sealing,line striping,sidewalk repair,
The Central Motors staff maintains and permanent patch,mill and overlay,etc.
•The DPW is also in the process of repairs vehicles for nine DPW divisions as
updating its Pavement Management well as town inspection and administrative •Provided in house services:pothole
Program,the first comprehensive update vehicles. Vehicles range from light pickup repair,sidewalk repair,seed and loam,
since 2012. The work is being performed trucks to heavy dump trucks and related in-house welding,hauling of material,first
by one of the Town's traffic consultants, construction equipment.In 2015,the line snow and ice response.
WorldTech Engineering. As part of the Department purchased a chipper for
work,all 72-centerlane miles of roadway the Forestry Department and a Wacker •Reviewed street opening permits and
within the Town are being surveyed for Neuson WL-37 to assist in snow removal provided inspections.
existing road conditions. Additional in the cemetery and other locations as
field information is being collected to necessary. .Reviewed and inspected development
refine road reconstruction cost estimates. projects
Sidewalk and curbing information is also
being collected to identify additional The Department also managed roadway
improvements required that are ancillary improvements on Waltham Street and
to road reconstruction. Parameters used three side streets that were added to the
to identify needed road treatments are = Waltham Street work,including Stanley
being modified to better reflect existing Avenue,Green River Way,and Evans
Town practices. Street,between Waltham Street and
Buick Street.Initial work also began on
DPW also provided assistance to the Fifield Street and Lowell Avenue.The
Planning and Zoning Boards in reviewing improvements made on these streets
a number of large-scale development incorporated Complete Streets principles.
Victory Field Snow Clearing With
projects this year,including: 480 Arsenal Wacker-Neuson Equipment
Street,80 Elm Street,58 Irving Street Property/Buildings/Wire
(Pirolli site),and 65 Grove Street. DPW The Central Motors Division and the
also reviewed plans for single and two- Highway Division have continued working Property/Buildings/Wire Divisions
family construction in support of building together refurbishing equipment in-house perform general maintenance for the Town
permit applications. Plans were reviewed supported by outside vendors in an effort Hall,the Public Works Building,the two
for compliance with Town sidewalk to prolong the life expectancy of a given closed libraries,the former police station,
and curbing requirements,water and piece of equipment.Their joint efforts have and various properties going through the
sewer services,and on-site stormwater become very cost effective and yielded tax claim process.Property and Buildings
management practices. substantial benefits to all the divisions, also maintains the Town's fire alarm
system,which includes over 370 fire alarm
Personnel Forestry boxes and a network of aerial wiring.The
Division also performs various Town
With the assistance of the Personnel The Forestry Division handles the pruning electrical repairs and projects,including
Department,the Public Works and maintenance of our urban forest. In the holiday tree lighting at Watertown
Department welcomed Thomas 2015,the Division removed 132 street trees Square.This Division is also responsible
Sorrentino,Hugo Reyes and Vincent and more than 250 trees were pruned/ for the installation,maintenance and
DiPace as Motor Equipment Operators. trimmed in various locations throughout repair of regulatory and non-regulatory
the town.The Division also chips take traffic management signs.
Cemetery downs on location and Christmas trees
placed curbside in January. In 2015,the Property and Buildings
The Cemetery Division is responsible Division continued the introduction
for maintenance of over thirty acres of of street signs with the town seal and
cemetery at three separate locations,sale continued the conversion of traffic signs
53
to meet the new reflectivity standards. •Installed new door at Filippello Park The Sewer Division also oversaw sewer
Property and Buildings works jointly with restrooms emergency repairs on Orchard Street
the Treasurer'Office supporting weights extension and Knowles Road.
and measures and parking meter collection .Aerated/sliced and seeded all parks
and repair.Weights and measures consist In 2015,the Water Department met the
of measurement and calibration of .Installed new irrigation controllers in challenges of the increasing reporting
commercial,fuel dispensing pumps and four parks requirements of the Environmental
inspection and calibration of commercial Protection Agency(EPA),The Department
oil delivery trucks.Other components .Painted water park structures at of Environmental Protection(DEP),and
calibrated and inspected consist of meat Filippello Park Massachusetts Water Resource Authority
scales as well as taxi meters.The Division (MWRA)for drinking water,sanitary
is also responsible for the collection of .Installed new fencing along Bemis Street sewer and storm water.The staff also
coins and repair of town wide parking at Moxley field performed the annual six week program of
meters. hydrant and water main flushing,as well
Water,Sewer and Drain as weekly drinking water quality sampling.
Parks More than 520 samples over the course
The need for water main improvements of the year were inspected.In addition,
The Parks division handles all maintenance was identified as part of the DPW's inspection and sampling of river outfalls
needs at 88 acres of Town grounds,parks updated water system modeling,which for water quality of the Charles River were
and recreational facilities consisting of was completed in March,2015. The water performed,as well as television inspection
12 baseball fields,seven soccer fields,one main on Fifield Street serves the Perkins of sewer and drain lines.
field hockey field,one football field and School and was found through hydraulic
two water parks,including picnic tables, modeling to provide insufficient flow at the As required by DEP,the department also
cookout grills and public rest rooms. The dead end. As a result,it was proposed to conducted annual sampling for lead in
division interfaces with all groups using replace the existing,sub-standard 6-inch drinking water at selected residences and
facilities,and accordingly marks playing diameter water main with an 8-inch public/private schools. Inspection of
grounds for all baseball,football,field diameter water main to enhance the water backflow prevention devices to determine
hockey and soccer games played by high system loop. compliance with the Massachusetts
school,recreation department and youth Department of Environmental Prevention
groups in the spring and fall. The 2015 water main replacement (DEP)standards took place and the staff
project included work on Hovey Street also conducted the annual leak detection
and Edenfield Avenue,between Warren program in concert with the MWRA.
Street and Main Street. Work was funded
m. through the MWRA Local Pipeline 29 hydrants were replaced or introduced
Assistance Program. Work began in to the system and 97 gates were exercised.
August on Edenfield Avenue upon The Water Division also responded to 13
execution of the contract with the low water main breaks and 34 water service
bidder,Commonwealth Construction. leaks and made additional improvements
Work on Edenfield Avenue was completed to 104 water services.The Division also
in early December with connection of the oversaw the repair of 126 catch basins and
new water main on Main Street. Work on 52 manholes.
Victory Field Hovey Street is anticipated to commence
The following projects were completed by in early 2016. Solid Waste
the Parks Division in 2015: The Department of Public Works
• pd siding/columns on Moxley / continued its mercury collection program.
Repaired
r Items accepted at the Department and at
l the recycling center include thermostats,
•Repaired gazebo at Filippello Park thermometers,button cell batteries and
mercury switches. Straight,circular,
•Installed roofs on two 2 U-shaped and compact fluorescent bulbs
( )gazebos at
Arsenal Park are also acceptable items.Recycling
center operations are located on Green
•Installed replacement wood border for River Way off of Waltham Street Fridays
high jump sand pit and Saturdays 9:00 AM-4:00 PM. The
automated collection program continues
•Installed new bike rack at Victory Field to operate successfully,increasing volumes
over those collected in the past.
54
POLICE DEPARTMENT
BUREAU OF ADMINISTRATIVE The police department continued its The system is capable of supporting
SERVICES partnership with the Edinburg Crisis training of multiple trainees
Center as the department received a simultaneously,using up to eight(8)
The calendar year of 2015 saw the fifth full Department of Mental Health grant to system controlled weapons during
provide better services to citizens who judgmental video training,thus allowing
calendar year in our new police station. are experiencing a crisis due to mental them to engage in team training.During
The department again thanks the citizens health or substance abuse issues. The goal individual marksmanship training,the
of Watertown for this wonderful facility. of this grant is to divert those persons system emulates a range-type training
Our community room is popular for town experiencing a mental health crisis from environment where each trainee may shoot
the criminal justice system to treatment a different exercise,and in accordance with
meetings,community meetings,elections and training activities. The community with mental health professionals. The range safety/spacing guidelines,the system
department continues to diligently seek can support training of up to four(4)
room was reserved one hundred ninety-six additional alternate funding avenues trainees simultaneously.
times over the year. to continue and extend this valuable
partnership. The Department re-established our
prescription drug disposal box in the
The police department also continues lobby of our station. In addition,the
to work very closely with WatertowiA department also participated in the DEAs
Wayside Multi-Service Center in order to loth National Prescription Take-Back day
meet the needs of our juvenile citizens. in September.Thousands of Americans in
communities across the country discarded
The department was officially awarded full more than 350 tons of unused,expired,
accreditation through the Massachusetts or unwanted drugs as part of the Drug
Police Accreditation Commission. To Enforcement Administrations(DEA)
achieve this status the department has National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day
Police Department Community Room to meet hundreds of carefully selected Initiative(NTBI)on Saturday,September
standards which address critical areas 26.This was the tenth NTBI event since
In 2015,The Governor's Highway&Safety such as policy development,use of September 2010;cumulatively,these events
Bureau granted the Watertown Police force,training requirements,emergency have collected 5,525,021 pounds of drugs.
Department a traffic enforcement grant response planning,records and
to fund several mobilizations including: communications,property and evidence The department continues to participate
Click It or Ticket,You Drink&Drive handling,vehicular pursuits,and holding in the Middlesex County Interagency
You Lose,Road Respect and Impaired facilities. Massachusetts is one of 25 states Mutual Aid Agreement.This
Driving.The department applied to the to offer an accreditation process for the agreement allows the police officers of
federal government to hire three police police profession. the communities who have signed the
officers through the nationally competitive agreement to exercise police powers in any
COPS Hiring Program Grant. Though The department began using our Meggitt other community who is also part of this
the department scored well,eighth Training Systems virtual firearms training agreement,with some restrictions;mainly
out of the thirty-three Massachusetts system for all our officers. Monies were the police officer must be on-duty at the
police departments applying,only three gifted to the department to enable this time. All violations of the law are covered
Massachusetts departments were approved Purchase. This law enforcement virtual under the agreement,including motor
for the grant. training simulation system effectively vehicle violations.Thus,a Watertown
supports marksmanship and judgmental Police Officer can enforce the laws of the
The department received a State 911 training needs of our officers.The single Commonwealth in any of the cities and
Department Training Grant. This grant screen configuration includes both towns that sign this agreement.
allows the department to send our public marksmanship training and video training
safety dispatchers to additional enhanced modes to provide a multi-tiered training SWORN PERSONNEL CHANGES-2015
training.We also received a State 911 program.Marksmanship training ranges
Incentive and Support grant. This grant from basic to advanced.This type of PROMOTIONS:
is used to purchase dispatch support judgmental training system enhances Raymond J.Dupuis
equipment or supplement personnel cost the understanding of shoot/don't shoot Provisional Police Chief 07/08/2015
to improve and enhance our abilities to situations and the corresponding use of
perform this service. force decision making process. APPOINTMENTS:
King E Lam 08/28/2015
Michael C.Grzelcylc 08/28/2015
55
Joseph J.Caruso 08/28/2015 including Federal agencies in the area of September 2015 investigation of nine
drugs,gaming,organized crime,sexual residential and commercial property
RETIREMENTS: assault,financial crimes and firearms. breaks resulted in an arrest and is
Edward P.Deveau 07/07/2015 Our detectives attend monthly detective currently pending in court; a continued
meetings where they exchange information investigation from 2014 to August 2015
RESIGNATIONS: with area detectives.These meetings have of eight residential nighttime breaks
John T.Rocca 01/30/2015 provided us with valuable information resulting in an arrest and conviction; an
Paul C.Whiting 08/28/2015 on criminal activity in our area and also investigation from October thru December
Kenneth C.Dinjian 09/22/2015 have enabled us to establish relationships 2015 of 16 motor vehicle breaks,resulted
Joseph J.Caruso 09/04/2015 with detectives and agents from in an arrest and restitution being made to
various departments.The Northeastern all victims.
DECEASED: None Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council
(NEMLEC)task force detectives have set Also in 2015,the detective division
CIVILIAN PERSONNEL up an email system where information conducted three undercover sting
CHANGES—2015 is shared on a daily basis.This tool has operations of illegal massage parlors
been exceptional in identifying suspects. resulting in arrests for sexual conduct for
PROMOTIONS: None The Watertown Police Department a fee.
continues its association with COPLINK,
APPOINTMENTS: an investigative tool,which gives us PERSONNEL CHANGES
Ian J.Munger 03/30/2015 access from multiple data sources
Casey L.DallaCosta 09/13/2015 including identification of previously In August 2015,Lieutenant Michael Lawn
unknown relationships.This has become was assigned to the day uniform patrol
RETIREMENTS: None an invaluable resource for the Detective division as the shift commander.In August
Division. 2015,Lieutenant James O'Connor was
RESIGNATIONS: assigned to the detective division as the
Adrienne L.Javery 02/22/2015 Throughout the year there was a continued division commander.
effort to scrutinize reported crimes. This
DECEASED: None strategy revealed that many crimes that The Detective Division is still working
were reported were unfounded or false and understaffed as we are still down one
AWARDS that many employees committed reported position due to budget constraints.
commercial larcenies.
As a result of the critical incident LICENSING UNIT
occurring in Watertown on April 19,2013, In 2015,the Detective Division
many awards and medals were bestowed investigated/followed-up numerous In order to encourage cooperation
upon members of the Police Department cases of these cases approximately 300 between the business owners of licensed
on a local,state and even national level. incidents were closed through criminal establishments in the City and the
Some are noted as follows: charges being sought(arrest,warrants, Police Department,with the intent to
or summons),determining that the case detect possible violations of the laws and
The Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor was unfounded,closed after exhausting regulations governing licenses,members of
-02/11/2015. all possible leads or at the victim/involved this unit conducted inspections of various
Sgt.Jeffrey J.Pugliese persons request.Several crimes were licensed establishments during both day
Sgt.John C.MacLellan solved and criminal charges sought.The and night time hours.Any irregularities
Off.Miguel A.Colon following cases are a sample of significant observed during these inspections were
Off.Joseph D.Reynolds crimes resulting in criminal prosecution: investigated and appropriate action taken
Off.Timothy B.Menton a January 2015 investigation resulted whenever deemed necessary.
in an arrest for three residential breaks
DETECTIVE DIVISION based solely on forensic evidence;an In addition to their normal duties the
investigation that included criminal division also conducted alcohol-related
The Detective Division is comprised of the charges of stalking,kidnapping,assault sweeps aimed at curtailing teenage
Investigative Unit,Licensing Unit,Juvenile and battery,assault and battery with a involvement in such activity. Package
Unit,Domestic Violence Unit,Drug Unit dangerous weapon,threats(2 counts) stores,clubs,and restaurants were
and the Prosecutor's Unit. Members of the and intimidation of a witness;a May, monitored and youths questioned as to
division investigated numerous crimes, 2015 investigation that resulted in a local proper identification.The success of these
initiated investigations,inspected licensed doctor committing an indecent assault operations is a result of the educational
premises and were involved in programs and battery(2 counts)against a female efforts of this division directed towards
for juveniles,the elderly,the business patient,resulting in an arrest,the case was the liquor establishments and the strong
community and the general public. adjudicated with a plea; an October 2015 enforcement action by the Watertown
armed bank robbery while masked was Licensing Board.These were conducted
The Detective Division has continued to investigated and resulted in an arrest-the with the assistance and collaboration with
work closely with other area departments, case is currently pending indictment; a the Watertown Youth Coalition.
56
The following is a report from the and 20 juveniles summonsed to court. related incidents,which resulted in
Detective Licensing Division for the year the arrest of one hundred-thirty(130)
of 2015 relative to license applications. Due to personnel cuts in the division,we individuals.This department also received
These applications were submitted for currently do not have a detective assigned and processed one hundred-twelve(112)
investigation and report.The applications to juvenile issues. restraining orders during this year.
were generated by the Police Department
as well as submitted by the Town DOMESTIC VIOLENCE UNIT The DV Officer monitors all domestic
Manager's Office and the Watertown related incidents and conducts follow-
Licensing Board. (Note:the totals are an The Domestic Violence(DV)Unit was ups and contacts victims and defendants
estimate and may or may not reflect the established in 1992.The DV unit provides when necessary. The DV Officer also
accurate total numbers.) legal advice,support and assistance to attends round-table discussions at on
a monthly basis.These meetings are
APPLICATIONS: Processed Approved Denied Susp/Rev with representatives from the District
Firearm Applications Attorney's Office,victim-witness advocates
and domestic violence officers from
License to Carry-CL A 57 54 3 0 surrounding cities and towns.The DV
License to Carry-CL B 0 0 0 0 Officer also publishes a domestic"Hot
FID CL C 5 5 0 0 Spots"list in the weekly bulletin and
FID CL D 0 0 0 0 through department e-mail,which keeps
officers updated with current domestic
TOTAL 62 59 3 0 related issues within the Town.
Alcohol Applications
One Day Permits 85 85 0 0 TRAINING
Sunday Closings 0 0 0 0
Detectives attended numerous training
Special Closing Hours 7 7 1 0 courses throughout the year in specialized
TOTAL 92 92 0 0 areas of law enforcement. Detectives also
Other Applications spoke to civic and public organizations on
Auctioneers Special 0 0 0 0 the topic of identity fraud,burglaries and
crime prevention.
Block Party 16 16 0 0
Constable 5 4 1 0 PROSECUTORS UNIT
Entertainment 1 1 0 0
The Prosecutor's Unit continues to work
Fair/Carnival 6 6 0 0 effectively with the Middlesex County
Hackney Carriage 32 32 0 0 District Attorney's Office. The Prosecutor's
Hackney Driver 125 114 11 2 Unit handled seven hundred and ninety—
Ice Cream Drivers 7 7 0 0
two(792)cases in the year 2015.
Livery Driers 15 15 0 0 COMMUNITY AND STAFF
Livery Vehicles 17 17 0 0 DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
Motorcycle Ride 1 1 0 0
Outdoor Concert 0 0 0 0 SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS AND
Peddler 1 1 0 0 COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Raffle&Bazaar 14 14 0 0 In 2015,the Community and Staff
Road Race/Walk-A-Thon 8 8 0 0
Development(CSD)Division consisted of
Solicitor 40 34 6 1 one School Resource Officer at the High
Tag Day 2 2 0 0 School,a new School Resource Officer
at the Middle School and one full time
Texas Holdlem 1 1 0 0 Crime Analysis Officer. The Division
TOTAL 291 273 18 3 was supervised by one lieutenant and one
sergeant.
JUVENILE UNIT other agencies and victims,with the
The school resource officers work to build
During the year 2015 this department
emphasis being placed on the safety of the relationships with the students and staff,
victim and prosecution of the abuser.
encountered youths for various incidents. provide a sense of security in the facility,
There were 164 reports generated that This department investigated three and provide guidance to teachers,students,
involved juveniles with 8 being arrested hundred and forty six(346)domestic and their parents.
57
The School Resource Officers and Sergeant clergy,and service entities resulted in The CSD Division along with the public
assigned to the Community and Staff a robust public awareness campaign schools also hosted a parent night to
Development Division regularly attended during the month of October. The week provide an opportunity for parents
Community Based Justice meetings. This of October 18t''was declared"Erase the to get informed about the upcoming
meeting is a collaboration between school Stigma'week. The CSD Division was enhancements to the school's safety plan.
personnel,public safety professionals,and heavily involved with several public There was a separate"parent's night"for
social service providers to help identify awareness events held that week,the the Watertown High School and a second
at-risk youths and provide them with posting of messages on billboards on meeting for parents of Elementary and
positive alternatives to steer them away Arsenal St,Mt.Auburn St.and Pleasant Middle School students. Parents were
from crime and violence,and work with St.and the development of public service encouraged to attend both meetings to
the administration to assist in obtaining announcements. ensure that we could explain the process to
necessary services for students. as many parents as possible. Subsequently,
As part of the Department's continued all students and faculty in the Watertown
The Division uses surveys to measure efforts at community outreach,response Public Schools have now been trained in
citizen's fear of crime and satisfaction to the increased effects of substance the ALICE program.
with the Police Department. The survey use disorder,the CSD Division began
also gives citizens an opportunity to make taking the initial steps to implement a Outreach and training in the ALICE
recommendations on how the Department Nasal Narcan program to help combat program has been expanded to include
can improve its quality of service. On a Opioid overdoses in the community. several private schools and businesses in
quarterly basis, 100 random surveys are The department was able to secure a Watertown such as the Atrium School,
mailed to citizens who have had contact legal authorization from the medical the Jewish Community Day School,
with the Department. The Department director to carry and dispense Narcan. the Beacon School,Perkins School for
continues to receive a positive response to In addition,ten doses of the drug have the Blind,the Arsenal Mall and Athena
the survey. been purchased and can be deployed once Health.
the policy is approved and implemented.
In July 2014,The Department renewed The department has partnered with OTHER COMMUNITY POLICING
a formal agreement with Advocates,Inc. the Watertown Health Department to PROGRAMS
to continue the Jail Diversion Program. train all police supervisors in the proper
The department was not able to secure administration of the drug. In 2015 Nasal During the summer of 2015,the CSD
additional funding and the position's hours Narcan was successfully used on multiple Division collaborated with the Recreation
were reduced to part time. A new clinician occasions to save the life of individuals Department to bring back a version of
was hired by Advocates to be shared suffering from opioid overdoses. the street hockey Police Athletic League
between Watertown and Framingham to from several years ago. The new program
work twenty hours for each program. Officers from the Community and Staff was referred to as the Cops&Rec Street
Development Division continue to assist Hockey League. Games were held on
The department was able to continue the the Watertown Public School System Sunday afternoons at the Casey Park
Jail Diversion Program and obtain grant with their crisis management protocols. outdoor rink,for an eight week period.
funding to support the Advocate's clinician Officers attend regular meetings with Watertown children ages eight through
position on a full-time basis. The purpose School personnel to discuss procedures to thirteen participated.
of the clinician is to allow the Department prevent and mitigate emergency situations
to provide better services to citizens who which could occur on school property. The CSD Division also collaborated
are experiencing a crisis due to mental The goal of this crisis management team is with the Recreation Department to hold
health or substance use disorder abuse to provide a safe environment for students two"Family Movie Night"events at the
issues. The program focuses on creating and to adequately prepare of a variety of park at the rear of the Watertown Police
alternatives to arrest,booking,and/or potential emergencies that could affect Department. The events were held on
jail for people whose criminal behavior is school personnel or property. July 17'and August 9t''. A Disney movie
directly due to mental illness or substance was played at each event. With funding
use disorder abuse. Due to the loss of As a result of these meetings,the from the Watertown Police Foundation
funding it is anticipated that the number of Watertown Public Schools have and athenahealth,pizza,snow cones,
clients helped will be reduced. transitioned to the ALICE(Alert- popcorn and refreshments were made
Lockdown-Inform-Counter-Evacuate) available. Preceding each movie,face
Recognizing that Watertown,like most approach to active shooter threats. This painting,games and other activities were
other communities in the Commonwealth provides teachers with more options to organized for attendees. Each event drew
experienced an increase in opioid respond to an armed intruder with an approximately 300 people.
overdoses in early 2015,the CSD Division emphasis placed on evacuations rather
played a significant role in establishing than solely locking down and attempting In December of 2015 the CSD Division
Watertowes task force W.A.TE.R.town to hide. and the Recreation Department again
(Watertown Access to Treatment collaborated to re-establish a version of
Education and Resources). A collaborative the Cops&Kids program that ran several
effort with several municipal agencies, years ago at the Watertown Middle School.
58
The new after school program,referred to Digital Headquarters)to enhance and go This training was coordinated by the CSD
as Cops&Rec is run on Wednesdays and beyond state mandated training. Division and a member of the department
Fridays. who has served with the NEMLEC SWAT
The department also modified its firearm team for over ten years. The curriculum
The CSD Division approached the training regimen. By breaking the typical included a review of the evolution on
Superintendent of Schools,Jean Fitzgerald eight hour training session into smaller response to"active shooter"scenarios,
with the idea to initiate a club at the High two-hour blocks the department was tactics to help enhance officer's safety and
School referred to as Youth Opposed to able to qualify its officers in the various instruction on the ALICE program to
Using(YO.U.). A version of this club has firearms(i.e.Glock 40 pistols,AR15 rifles dovetail with the training received by the
been organized in other cities and serves and less-lethal shotguns)while minimizing schools and businesses in Watertown.
as a positive reinforcement for youths overtime expenditures.
who opt to remain substance free. The The department has also underwent
premise of the club is to have youths Effective July 1",2012,state regulations training in application of new Field
pledge to remain substance free and in require that all 911 answering points Interview and Observation reports. These
return membership offers discounts at area begin following Emergency Medical reports help document officer encounters
businesses,access to member only parties Dispatch(EMD)procedures. EMD on the road with potential suspects and
and other incentives. The Superintendent allows the 911 call-taker top provide life- records that interaction more effectively
opted to move forward with this program saving instructions to the caller over the for future investigative purposes.
by establishing a steering committee of telephone increasing the chance of survival
Watertown High School and Middle and reducing the severity of injuries while In addition to the aforementioned training,
School students. the patient waits for emergency personnel various officers have also attended training
to arrive on scene. The department has sessions in the following areas:street
ACCREDITATION contracted with Armstrong Ambulance drugs,drug interdiction vehicle stops,
Service to provide EMD support for evidence collection and preservation,
Accreditation renewal efforts have medical 911 calls. Under this contract community policing,ALICE/school safety,
begun and the department completed Armstrong handles the medical call active shooter response and many others.
certification in April of 2014. The while WPD civilian dispatchers deploy
Community and Staff Development police and fire assets to the scene of the INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
Division immediately began work to emergency.
attain accreditation status. As planned, The college internship program continued
the department underwent a successful Also effective July V,2012 all 911 call- successfully in 2014 with a total of eight
assessment in June of 2015 and was takers must receive 16 hours of State interns going through the program by
subsequently awarded the accredited 911 approved training per year. The the end of the year. The Department has
status. department's Training Division has been partnered with Northeastern University,
working tirelessly to ensure that all of these UMass Boston,Mt.Ida College and
The department has continued its new requirements are met. other area colleges to greatly expand its
review of the departments policies and internship program. College students
procedures. Hundreds of pages of written The CSD Division also completed the interested in a law enforcement career
policy have been carefully combed purchase of a FATS L7 Training simulator are carefully selected to work with the
through to ensure that they are up-to- to assist with firearms training. The FATS department,under the guidance of the
date and consistent with the department's machine is a firearms virtual training Community and Staff Development
facility and standards. This process shall simulator that emulates the workings Division. These interns are unpaid and
continue to ensure that the policies remain of an actual firearm without the cost of help augment many of the department's
updated and consistent with accreditation ammunition. The machine is able to endeavors while gaining important
standards. A continual effort will be render real world judgment scenarios with knowledge and insight into the law
required in order for the department to be variable outcomes to help train officers enforcement profession.
re-accredited in 2018. in lethal force encounters and how to
appropriately make those judgment calls. BUREAU OF FIELD
DEPARTMENT TRAINING All members of the department have OPERATIONS
experienced their first training session on
The department ensured that its officers the FATS machine. The first session was PATROL DIVISION
attained the legislated 40 hour minimum designed to re-enforce knowledge of the
mandatory annual training requirement department's policy on Use of Force and The primary mission of the Patrol Division
by contracting with the Lowell Police Response to Mental Health Calls. The is to serve Watertowiis citizens through
In-Service academy to provide in-service training also emphasized the use of de- a cooperative effort and to protect their
training to all Watertown officers. The escalation techniques. property through enforcement of laws
department continued its production of and highly visible deterrent activities.The
internal trainings which were incorporated All members of the department underwent officers of the Patrol Division represent
into the department's various software training to reinforce understanding of the department's first response to all
technology media(i.e.Intralearn and the"Response to Active Threats"policy.
59
emergencies and most calls for service. they have and which issues they feel are PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHERS
In 2015 the department was able to fill important and would like addressed.
existing openings hiring Officers King Lam Officers receive training in Community
and Michael Grzelcyk. Policing and are encouraged to increase
their interaction with the citizens on their
During 2015 the Patrol Division respective patrol routes.Officers are also
responded to 25,538 calls for service and relieved of their assignment for a portion
or motor vehicle stops.These calls initiated of their shift to work with the community
investigations and events that resulted in on various issues and problems.
407 arrests,73 persons being placed in
Protective Custody and 384 summonses NORTH EASTERN
being issued.These statistics do not reflect MASSACHUSETTS LAW
all of the officer-initiated contacts made by
patrol officers during the course of routine ENFORCEMENT COUNCIL There are nine Public Safety Dispatchers
patrol. (N.E.M.L.E.C.) that answered over 25,538 calls.The
dispatchers answer all calls for assistance
Heavy emphasis by the Patrol Division for both the Watertown Fire Department
was also placed in the enforcement of and Police Department.The dispatchers
traffic regulations in keeping with the goal come under the Patrol Division of the
of moving traffic safely and efficiently on N 1''`t 1 F C Police Department.They are the first
the streets of Watertown.Officers and point of contact for all citizens requesting
equipment were assigned to monitor and A f assistance or directions from either
enforce traffic rules and orders when department.The dispatchers answer all
necessary in keeping with this goal. E-911 calls,which totaled 5006 calls in
MIiM tIt
2015 and are responsible for dispatching
ct>MMuNIrr P P g
Officers were also assigned to"hot spots" all fire apparatus and ambulances when
for enforcement.These locations are where required.They also dispatch all police
a large number of accidents or violations cars to service and emergency calls,which
occur,or where there are numerous The Watertown Police Department amounted to 25,538 calls for service last
complaints by citizens. year alone.These dispatchers are also
continues its membership and required to make contact with the Registry
commitment with the North Eastern
Patrols were adjusted during the course of Motor Vehicles to obtain vehicle
Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council
of the year to address increased activity (NEMLEC).NEMLEC is a group of 61 information and confirm warrants on
due to crime trends,holidays,special cities and towns that share resources. wanted individuals.
events,and recreational events at parks These NEMLEC cities and towns have a
and playgrounds.Patrols were increased TRAFFIC DIVISION
combined SWAT Team(Special Weapons
during peak shopping periods in the and Tactics),RRT Team(Regional
business districts of Watertown.This was Response Team),a School Threat I I
accomplished by using motor patrol,foot
patrol,and the use of motorcycles.The Assessment Response team(STARS)and
a motorcycle unit that will respond to
Patrol Division works in concert with any member community on a moment's __ d
other divisions in the Police Department notice.NEMLEC Motor Cycle Unit,
and outside public and private agencies RRT e.SWAT teams train monthly and
within the area to accomplish the objective are on call to NEMLEC communities to
of providing the most effective deployment assist with emergency situations.In the
of personnel possible.Computer data is past,Watertown Police Officers assigned
analyzed to assist in the deployment of to these units,assisted the Boston t�
police officers to areas in need of police police Department with security for the
attention. Democratic National Convention and the
Red Sox World Series baseball games and
The Patrol Division,as well as the entire parades.In 2015,the following units were
Police Department,is committed to called out as shown below;
Community Policing.One of the goals
of Community Policing is to build a Motorcycle Unit 4 Incidents
partnership between the police and the SWAT Unit 15 Incidents
community,encouraging interaction RRT Unit 2 Incidents In 2015 the Watertown Police Department
between the two so that we can solve Traffic Division conducted traffic
community problems together.This enforcement activities throughout
partnership also allows the community the Town at a reduced capacity of two
to let the police know what concerns patrolman positions due to budget cuts.
60
These activities included enforcement 2015,the Traffic Division conducted TRAFFIC
of both parking regulations and motor surveys,studied speed and traffic flows,
vehicle laws. and conducted investigations for the 19,601 Parking citations.
Watertown Traffic Commission.This 6920 Total moving citations.
The Traffic Division has two patrol cars information was used by the Traffic
and four Harley Davidson motorcycles Commission in their determination for the 2015 Data
assigned to it.Officers operating these addition,replacement,or deletion of traffic 6920 Citations
motorcycles attended either forty hours signs,rules and regulations.
of instruction at the Boston Police 72 Arrests
Motorcycle Training Academy,the The Traffic Division also has two speed/ 235 Criminal Complaints
M.B.T.A.Motorcycle Training Academy radar trailers. These trailers are portable 2185 Civil Fines
or an eighty hour course sponsored by radar units that display the target vehicle 4428 Warnings
NEMLEC. speed on a 3'x 3'display window. In
addition to speed measurement,these 43 OUI:
The Traffic Division has a Commercial trailers also measure traffic volume. The .29 OUI Liquor
Vehicle Enforcement Unit.This unit reports generated by these radar units are .4 OUI Liquor 2"Offense
increases the safety of the motoring used to aid the Traffic Commission in their -2 OUI Liquor 3r'Offense
public and contributes to maintaining efforts as wells as to determine the level of .2 OUI Liquor 4"Offense
the integrity of the town roadways by traffic compliance in particular areas. The . 1 OUI Liquor 5"'Offense
inspecting commercial vehicles and their speed signs have been effective tools in .5 OUI Drugs
drivers for safety,equipment,and weight reducing vehicle speeds in problem areas.
compliance.This unit consists of one 69 Suspended/Revoked Licenses
officer who is trained and certified by The Traffic Division also supervises 82 Operating W/O license
the U.S.Department of Transportation twenty-four full time and two alternate
(D.O.T.)as a federal motor carrier school crossing guards.These supervisors 358 Major Accidents and 670 Minor
inspector.This officer is also trained are responsible for traffic control and the Accidents
and certified by the U.S.Department of safe passage of school children in and
Transportation to conduct inspections of around the public schools. .232 MV in transport
commercial vehicles carrying Hazardous .50 Collision with Parked Vehicle
Materials. In 2015,The Traffic Division received . 13 Collision with fence
$12,000 in Grants from the Executive . *13 Collision with Pedestrian
The Traffic Division is responsible for the Office of Public Safety and The Governor's . 10 Collision with Bicyclist
Detail Office. The Detail Office consists Highway Safety Bureau to conduct one .9 Collison with Utility Pole
of one officer who is responsible for "Click it or Ticket"mobilization that .8 Collision with pole or support
scheduling details and overtimes,billing allowed the department to conduct high .6 Collision with Tree
companies and collecting money owed. visibility enforcement in an effort to .4 Collision with Curb
This Officer also covers routes during increase seat belt usage. The Department .3 Collision with Moped
personnel shortages,conducts community also participated in two"Drive Sober .3 Other
policing activities and is available to or Get Pulled Over"mobilizations to .2 Collision with other movable object
respond to emergency situations as target and reduce drunk driving and one .2 Collision with embankment
needed. `Distracted Driver'mobilization focused .2 Cross median or centerline
on people texting while driving. . 1 Collision with traffic sign
The Traffic Division assists in the *One fatal pedestrian accident
supervision of two civilian parking In the Year 2015,the department issued
enforcement officers. The addition of these the following motor vehicle citations:
two positions allows Police Officers to
dedicate their time to other police duties.
Between January and December
61
FIRE DEPARTMENT
FIRE and EMERGENCY INCIDENT alarm response is usually sufficient to INSPECTIONS CONDUCTED BY FIRE
RESPONSE: confine and extinguish the fire.However, APPARATUS
The Watertown Fire Department when conditions require the response of
responded to 4894 reported fires and more fire apparatus,the officer in charge Oil burner inspections...............35
emergency calls for assistance during at the scene orders additional resources Smoke detector inspections..........472
2015.A summary of those incidents and to reinforce the initial fire attack and Inspections conducted quarterly:
estimated property losses as compiled by complete the first alarm assignment. Day care facilities................... 51
the Fire Prevention Bureau is as follows: These additional or greater alarms bring Public and private schools............44
additional engine companies and aerial Community residences.............. 16
Fire/Explosion.................... . .79 ladder companies to the fire location. Nursing care facilities.................4
Overpressure Rupture.............. . . 2 Handicapped workshops............. 16
Rescue Calls......................3089 Watertown firefighters responded to no Motels..............................4
Hazardous Condition...............235 multiple alarm fires in 2015.
Service Calls...................... 530 FIRE DEPARTMENT PROVIDES BASIC
Good Intent Call................... 133 MUTUAL AID ASSISTANCE FROM EMERGENCY MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
False Call........................ . 783 OTHER GREATER BOSTON FIRE
Severe Weather/Natural Disaster.. .... . 2 DEPARTMENTS AND MUTUAL AID The Fire Department has provided
Special Type/Complaint.......... ....41 RESPONSE TO OTHER COMMUNITIES basic emergency medical care and
The Watertown Fire Department thanks transportation for citizens in Watertown
Total Number of Emergency Responses for the Arlington,Belmont,Boston,Brookline, since 1975.The department has 78
the Year 2015:.................... 4894 Cambridge,Newton,Weston and Waltham firefighters who are certified emergency
fire departments for providing fire scene medical technicians.The remaining
Coverage Assignment/Mutual Aid. ... .24 response and fire station coverage during firefighting personnel are qualified to state
2015 when all Watertown firefighters units standards as medical First Responders.
ANNUAL APPARATUS were engaged in fire suppression activities.
RESPONSE FOR 2015: All members of the department certify
The Fire Department responded to other annually in cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Central Fire Station(Station 1),99 Main municipalities in Greater Boston several (CPR)skills.The department's engine
Street: times in 2015,under the established companies and ladder companies are also
Engine 1 ......................... 1792 Metrofire District mutual aid assistance equipped to handle medical emergencies.
Ladder 1 ....................... . . 1120 agreement.These responses were to fires The closest available Engine Company is
reported near the boundary between dispatched with the Fire Rescue to medical
East Watertown Fire Station(Station 2), Watertown and an adjacent community, assistance calls.Aerial ladder companies
564 Mount Auburn Street: directly to the fire to assist with firefighting are sent to the emergency scene when their
Engine 2 ......................... 1571 efforts,or to fire station coverage specialized rescue skills or equipment is
Ladder 2..........................409 assignments during major fires in other needed.
cities and towns.
North Watertown Fire Station(Station 3), Firefighters who are either Emergency
270 Orchard Street: ESTIMATED PROPERTY LOSSES IN Medical Technicians or Medical First
Engine 3....................... .. 1402 2015: Responders are also trained on the use of
Fire Rescue 1 .................... .2316 Building and structure fires.....$266,000 the semi-automatic cardiac defibrillator.
Fire Rescue 2................ .... . ... 0 These defibrillators have been carried on
ESTIMATED LARGEST LOSSES IN the Fire Rescue/ambulance,as well as
Note:some incidents require response PROPERTY the first-responding engine companies
of more than one unit to the scene of the and aerial ladder companies,for several
emergency. FEES COLLECTED years.The fire department upgraded
Smoke detector inspections......$18,880 their defibrillators during 2009 to newer
NO MULTIPLE-ALARM FIRES IN 2015: Copies of departmental reports..... $135 models with enhanced features.The fire
The Fire Department responded to many Required Permits for product storage,or department added a stationary defibrillator
calls for structure and dwelling fires during regulated activities.............. $14465 in the lobby of Fire Headquarters in
the year.The initial response to such calls Annual fees for connection to master fire 2004.Watertown was one of the first
is by two engine companies and an aerial alarm boxes................... $19,800 communities in the Greater Boston area
ladder company,under the command of Tank Truck Inspections............$105 to have these life-saving units available
the deputy fire chief on duty.This initial- Total Fees Collected............ $53,695 for early response to emergency medical
incidents.
62
A cooperative agreement with a private WATERTOWN YOUTHS ATTEND Temporary Fire Lieutenant David J.
ambulance company to provide Advanced MIDDLESEX COUNTY PUBLIC Meagher to Permanent Fire Lieutenant
Life Support(ALS)service in Watertown SAFETY PROGRAM effective June 21,2015.
was instituted in November 1995.ALS
services are provided by a non-transport Dozens of Watertown youths and Retirements:
Advanced Life Support unit staffed by two several members of the Fire Department
certified Paramedics. participated in the annual Middlesex Firefighter Michael E.Mosca retired
County Youth Public Safety Academy from the Watertown Fire Department
The ALS system is a two-tier model.The in July 2015.The Watertown contingent on January 10,2015.Firefighter Michael
Watertown Fire Department provides attended the program during the week of E.Mosca was appointed a Firefighter
emergency medical Basic Life Support July 10,2015.The Fire Department and on December 12,1974.He retired after
service,and the dispatch of its ambulance Police Department welcomed the boys serving the Fire Department and the Town
unit to the scene upon receipt of a medical and girls for a full day presentation of the of Watertown for more than 40 years.
emergency call.Watertown public safety two public safety department's operations
dispatchers also send the ALS unit if the and capabilities.Other activities were Lieutenant Thomas V Thibaut retired
nature and circumstances of the reported held at the Middlesex County Sheriff's from the Watertown Fire Department on
incident,such as a cardiac-related Training Academy in Billerica.Graduation January 16,2015.Lieutenant Thibaut was
emergency,are within certain guidelines. ceremonies were on Friday July loth, appointed a firefighter on May 17, 1984.
followed by a cookout for children,parents He was promoted to Lieutenant on May
Medical direction for Watertown and staff.Firefighter Paul Coughlin 10,2009.He retired after serving the Fire
Advanced Life Support activity is provided continued representing the Department by Department and the Town of Watertown
by the South Middlesex Emergency participating in the program. for more than 31 years.
Medical Services Consortium through
the Mount Auburn Hospital.Patients are PERSONNEL ACTIVITIES in 2015 Firefighter Sharon A.Rand retired from
treated and transported,usually in the the Watertown Fire Department on
Watertown Fire Department ambulance, Town Manager Michael J.Driscoll made February 24,2015.Firefighter Sharon
within protocols and guidelines provided the following appointment during the year, A.Rand was appointed a Firefighter on
by the emergency medical region which in order to fill a vacancy within the Fire February 14,2002.She retired after serving
provides oversight for ALS activity in the Department. the Fire Department and the Town of
Greater Boston area.On-going clinical Watertown for more than 13 years.
supervision and quality assurance is Appointments:
provided in conjunction with the South Firefighter Thomas Iodice retired from the
Middlesex and North Suburban EMS Mr.Derek Dubois as Firefighter effective Watertown Fire Department on February
consortiums. May 31,2015. 28,2015.Firefighter Thomas Iodice was
appointed a Firefighter on February 27,
SEPTEMBER 11,2015—Patriot Day Mr.Brian Cohen as Firefighter effective 1975.He retired after serving the Fire
The Fire Department participated in a July 19,2015. Department and the Town of Watertown
September I I"ceremony to commemorate for more than 40 years.
the tenth anniversary of the terrorist Mr.Robert Martinello as Firefighter
attacks of Sept. 11,2001,and the effective July 19,2015 Lieutenant Brian K.Rand retired from
subsequent losses suffered at the World the Watertown Fire Department on May
Trade Center,the Pentagon,and in Ms.Anna Pelevina as Firefighter effective 28,2015.Lieutenant Brian K.Rand was
Pennsylvania.Apparatus at the Main Street July 19,2015. appointed a firefighter on January 20,2000.
fire station and the firefighters on duty He was promoted to Lieutenant on August
followed a plan of events recommended Mr.Cameron Walsh as Firefighter effective 18,2013.He retired after serving the Fire
by the Fire Chiefs'Association of July 19,2015 Department and the Town of Watertown
Massachusetts and the Professional for more than 15 years.
Firefighters of Massachusetts.The Promotions:
Watertown Firefighters Local 1347 Color Firefighter David P.Stone retired from
Guard participated.Off duty members Temporary Fire Captain Robert C.Power the Watertown Fire Department on
of the department were invited to attend, to Permanent Fire Captain effective July 4,2015.Firefighter David P.Stone
and many did so.The Firefighters Color January 11,2015. was appointed a Firefighter on June 30,
Guard and Fire Chief Mario Orangio 1983.He retired after serving the Fire
also participated in the Community Temporary Fire Lieutenant Michael D. Department and the Town of Watertown
Remembrance. Anastasi to Permanent Fire Lieutenant for more than 32 years.
effective January 11,2015.
Captain William Gildea Jr.retired from the
Temporary Fire Lieutenant Sean Fitzgerald Watertown Fire Department on November
to Permanent Fire Lieutenant effective 23,2015.Captain Gildea Jr.was appointed
February 1,2015. a firefighter on April 30,1987.He was
63
promoted to Lieutenant on March 6, the following members of the Watertown Service Award Program:
1995 and to Captain on May 12,2005.He Fire Department,based upon their In 2006,the Department instituted a
retired after serving the Fire Department completed service as of December 31, Service Award Program in order to
and the Town of Watertown for more than 2015,as recipients of the Awards: recognize the efforts of members of the
28 years. Department in the performance of their
40-Year Award: duties.
Awards: No awards this year
No awards this year
The Massachusetts Fire Service 35-Year Award:
Commission has established the No awards this year In memory of our departed comrade in
Massachusetts Fire Service Award 2015.
Program to recognize firefighters who have 30-Year Award.
served their department and community No awards this year Retired Firefighter Daniel E.Sullivan died
for 20 or more years.There is a certificate on March 14,2015.Firefighter Daniel E.
and distinctive uniform emblem to denote 25-Year Award: Sullivan was appointed to the Watertown
length of service in five-year increments. No awards this year Fire Department on November 29, 1951.
The emblem is approved for wear above He retired on March 31,1990 after more
the right pocket of the dress uniform 20-Year Award: than 39 years of service to the department
blouse or shirt.The Department is pleased No awards this year and the Town of Watertown.
to join with the Fire Service Commission
and the State Fire Marshal in recognizing The Fire Department mourns his passing.
64
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
The current practice in Massachusetts management relating to SARA(Superfund The plan was written in accordance
and other states is to designate what Amendment and Reauthorization Act of with existing federal,state and local
were formerly known as municipal 1986)Title III requirements, statues.Department heads assigned
"Civil Defense"agencies as"Emergency a responsibility under the plan were
Management"organizations.The Town •Clerical support for Local Emergency directed by the town manager to develop
official responsible for the Emergency Planning Committee records and the implementing procedures for each
Management Department is known as the required Hazardous Materials Response department,describing how response
"local emergency management director": Plan annual review, functions will be carried out.A copy of the
Following the establishment of FEMA, CEM Plan is available for review during
the Federal Emergency Management •Other FEMA and Mass.Emergency business hours at the Office of the Town
Agency,states have generally followed Management Agency state and area Clerk,in the Administration Building.
suit.In Massachusetts,the Massachusetts headquarters clerical tasks,which require
Civil Defense Agency became the attention. COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS
Massachusetts Emergency Management
Agency(MEMA).MEMA has encouraged CEM PLAN Watertown has a designated(uncertified)
cities and towns in Massachusetts to Local Emergency Planning Committee
adopt the"emergency management" Every community in Massachusetts has a (LEPC),and a current Comprehensive
designations.This practice reflects the Comprehensive Emergency Management Emergency Management(CEM)Plan.
realization that community preparedness Plan(CEM Plan).The CEM Plan is Watertown would be eligible for federal or
under civil defense guidelines has updated annually,and is subject to a major state assistance,financial or otherwise,in
evolved to emergency preparedness and revision on a five-year cycle.Maintaining case of an emergency or disaster.
management efforts during and following a current CEM Plan is essential to
natural and man-made emergency events. the community's ability to respond to Watertown established an LEPC in 1988,
Those include hurricanes,winter storms, emergencies that can and do occur. as required.The LEPC included the town
hazardous materials incidents,and now, manager(as chairperson),the police and
unfortunately,terrorism incidents.Both The revised Emergency Management fire chiefs,the DPW superintendent,the
FEMA and MEMA also recognize that Plan for Watertown provides a framework health director,and the planning director.
municipalities deal with these emergencies wherein the community can plan and The committee also included"emergency
through the efforts of their existing public perform their respective emergency planning coordinators"of facilities that
safety,public works and public services functions during a disaster or emergency were required to report amounts of certain
departments.Cities and towns maintain situation on the local,state or national hazardous materials if stored or used at
their usual municipal operating structure, level. their sites.The LEPC was required to
and can request needed state and federal develop a hazardous response plan,and
resources through contact with MEMA The Comprehensive Emergency did so.There is a requirement for the plan
area and state headquarters.MEMA Management Plan combines the four to be reviewed annually by members of
considers the point-of-contact official to be phases of emergency management: the LEPC.The Town does so.Annually
the local emergency management director. in March,the Town receives"Tier Two'
1.Mitigation:Those activities that inventories from facilities required to
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT eliminate or reduce the probability of report the presence of certain hazardous
ACTIVITIES disaster; materials during the previous year.Those
reports are incorporated into an annual
In Watertown the fire chief is currently 2.Preparedness:Those activities which update,now known as Section Five:
the emergency management director. governments,organizations,and Hazardous Materials,of the CEM Plan.
The Fire Department principal account individuals develop to save lives and
clerk performs necessary emergency minimize damage; The original focus of the LEPC was to be
management clerical assignments.The on transportation emergencies involving
projects and clerical assignments in 2015 3.Response:Those activities which prevent hazardous materials.Transportation
included: loss of lives and property and provide modes are shipment by rail,highway,
emergency assistance;and maritime vessel,aircraft and pipeline.At
•Maintaining the town's Comprehensive about the same time,the Massachusetts
Emergency Management Plan(CEM 4.Recovery:Those short and long term Hazardous Materials Response Team
Plan), activities that return all systems to normal concept was developed.There are now six
or improved standards. Regional Hazardous Materials Response
•Annual hazardous materials information teams established,and available to respond
65
to any community in the state.Team The Town continued its membership in the at MEMA Region 1 Headquarters in
members are career firefighters from fire Battle Road Emergency Planning Council. Tewksbury.
departments throughout Massachusetts. The Council is comprised of the following
Team members are certified as hazard towns;Arlington,Bedford,Belmont, •The Board of Health has developed plans
materials technicians after completing a Burlington,Lexington and Watertown. to initiate and staff Emergency Dispensing
160-hour training course.Team members Additionally,the cities of Brookline and Sites(EDS)in Watertown.In order to
complete a minimum of 80 hours Newton have applied for membership.The facilitate activating these sites,a special
recurrent training annually.The Town's regional council meets monthly with a medical equipment trailer was purchased
current hazardous materials plan calls goal of assisting member communities in to carry supplies needed to stock these
for the response of the Massachusetts times of emergency/disaster by a sharing sites.
HazMat Regional Response Team when of resources.
circumstances dictate. •National Incident Management System
Because of increased emphasis on (NIMS)training was continued and
Although the designated members of homeland security and emergency completed by required departments,in
Watertown's LEPC do not often convene planning,town officials have participated compliance with the NIMS Program.
formally,the members nonetheless meet in several meetings,conferences and
regularly as part of the Town Manager's seminars during 2015. The Town will continue to seek any
staff.They work together at incidents when appropriate grants for training and
and as necessary,and communicate with •The local emergency management equipment relating to emergency
one another as necessary. director attended monthly Emergency preparedness that may become available
Management Directors meetings held through federal or state sources.
66
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND PLANNING
DEPARTMENT
The Department of Community committee,as representative to the MBTA development projects.The Planning
Development&Planning(Department) Advisory Board,Board of Directors of Board reviewed a total of two petitions
was created through a vote of the Town Massachusetts Tree Wardens and Foresters, within the Pleasant Street Corridor
Council in August 1982.The Department the Massachusetts Association of Planning District(PSCD)as well as provided
provides a formal relationship and Directors,the Mystic River Watershed recommendations on 22 petitions to the
coordination between several boards, Municipal Subcommittee,member of the Zoning Board of Appeals in accordance
commissions and committees such as the regional HOME consortium,Continuum with the provisions of M.G.L.c.40A and
Planning Board,Zoning Board of Appeals, of Care(Hard to House Homeless),and the Watertown Zoning Ordinance(WZO).
Historical and Conservation Commissions, we also attend MPO meetings to promote In addition,both the Planning Board and
Historic District Commission,Housing Watertown's efforts to have TIP projects Zoning Board of Appeals handled three
Partnership,the Building Department, funded. modifications of existing permits,and one
and Zoning Enforcement Divisions,the appeal of the Zoning Enforcement Officer's
Commanders Mansion,and the Planning •GIS,Sustainability/Green determination.Total fees collected for the
and Community Development Office. Communities,and Transportation Planning Board petitions and the newly
Each entity is accorded professional websites:Staff is keeping webpages established Site Plan Review fee for 2013 is
and support services by Department updated to provide information for a $7,765,a substantial increase compared to
employees.The aim of integrating variety of mapping,sustainability,and the total fees collected in 2012 of$720.00.
these related agencies is to improve transportation efforts that the Town has
communication and coordination and to embarked upon.The pages are a valuable A new focus of development in 2015 was
provide services more efficiently to the resource for both the public and other the Arsenal Street corridor.Projects of
community. departments. note include the redevelopment of 480
Arsenal Street into a new 185,595 square
A summary report of the Department's PLANNING BOARD foot office building,and a Special Permit
major accomplishments for calendar year approval for the Greystar/Elan/Union
2015 is as follows. The Planning Board is the Special Permit Market project(282 rental units and
•Staff Changes: Granting Authority(SPGA)for Special 10,600 square feet of retail/commercial
•Deborah Helie,Principal Clerk Permit(SP)and Special Permit with Site space)at Irving and Arsenal Streets.
Building Plan Review(SP/SR)petitions within the
•Ed Lewis,Energy Manager Pleasant Street Corridor District(PSCD) The Planning Board was also involved
as well as certain"by right"development in several important zoning changes in
•Comprehensive Plan:The Planning proposals subject to Site Plan Review 2015.These include amendments to the
Board and Town Council adopted the in additional zoning districts.The Pleasant Street Corridor District,and a
Comprehensive Plan(June 30,2015). Planning Board also reviews and makes request by Saint Patrick's Parish to apply
recommendations on petitions for which the Religious/School Overlay District(R/
•Design Standards and Guidelines: the Zoning Board of Appeals is the Special SOD)to their property.
The Town of Watertown selected Gamble Permit Granting Authority.The Planning
Associates to conduct an expedited process Board reviews proposed amendments The Planning Board also completed the
in 2014 to create Design Guidelines and to the Watertown Zoning Ordinance public hearing process and recommended
Standards that provide clear guidance (WZO)and makes recommendations adoption to the Town Council of
and requirements for new development on those amendments to the Town zoning text amendments to implement
and redevelopment within Watertown's Council.The Planning Board was also commercial Design Standards and
key corridors and squares.The Planning an active participant in completing the Guidelines that affect major development
Board and Town Council held hearings Comprehensive Plan,which was initiated and redevelopment within Watertown's key
and adopted the suggested Zoning in the fall of 2012 and was adopted in June corridors and squares.
Amendments and the Design Guidelines 2015.Completion of the Comprehensive
June 30,2015.They also stated work on the Plan was a high-priority implementation The Planning Board,in connection
residential guidelines. strategy of the Town-wide Economic with staff,monitored the progress of
Development Study that was completed in athenahealWs proposed site-wide Master
•Regional Efforts:Staff continues to 2011. Plan after the completion of a zoning
serve as a member of the Metropolitan text amendment for the Arsenal Overlay
Area Planning Council(MAPC)Inner During 2015,the Planning Board reviewed Development District in 2014.
Core Committee,MAPC legislative numerous residential and commercial
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Finally,the Planning Board and staff The Housing Partnership continued to Cambridge Greenway and the Charles
began the review of a proposed zoning play an active role in the negotiation River Greenway.
text amendment by Boylston Properties, of Affordable Housing Agreements for
LLC to rezone an area of the Arsenal multifamily residential developments. ZONING OFFICE
Street Corridor from Industrial to a new In 2015,the WHP reviewed the
Regional Mixed Use District(RMUD). Greystar/Elan/Union Market project for Purpose
The geographic area includes the area consistency with the Inclusionary Zoning The priority of the Zoning Office is
designated as Regional Mixed Use on requirements,resulting in the developer the enforcement of the Town's Zoning
the Future Land Use map of the 2015 providing more 3-bedroom affordable Ordinances,ensuring compliance with
Comprehensive Plan. units than stipulated by the WZO. Town regulations,so as to promote and
maintain a safe and desirable living and
Planning staff consists of Steve Magoon, The Partnership is comprised of Fred work environment for the community
Community Development&Planning Reynolds(Chair),Brian Costello of Watertown.The Zoning Office is
Director/Assistant Town Manager,Gideon (Executive Director of the Watertown committed to administering fair and
Schreiber,AICP,Senior Planner,Andrea Housing Authority),Clifford Cook,Torey unbiased resolve of code violations,
Adams,Senior Planner,and Ingrid Dean,Paul Fahey,David Leon,and Judge provide public information,assist
Marchesano,Clerk to the Planning Board. Paul Menton.Mr.Fahey resigned in the general public with meeting their
March,2015.Staff support was provided residential and business goals,coordinate
WATERTOWN HOUSING by Andrea Adams,Senior Planner. and review development proposals for
PARTNERSHIP and HOME conformance with the Town's Zoning
PROGRAM BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN Ordinance,and serve as staff to the Zoning
COMMITTEE Board of Appeals.
The Watertown Housing Partnership
(WHP)oversees housing policy and The Bike-Ped Committee works to Performance Measures
programs,the Affordable Housing Fund, promote non-motorized transportation The Zoning Office consists of two(2)
as well as the Town's inclusionary zoning in Watertown.They actively encourage Positions,the Clerk to the Zoning Board
provisions of the Affordable Housing citizens to bike and to walk because of Appeals and the Zoning Enforcement
requirements of section 5.07 of the those modes are cleaner,healthier and Officer.The Town of ing performance
Budget
WZO.The Partnership also oversees the can be more business-friendly.The work established the following performance
administration of the HOME program, is important because communities tend goals and measures which are applicable to
which brings federal dollars into to be more livable than communities the Zoning Office.
Watertown to expand affordable housing that neglect transportation alternatives.
to
opportunities. The Committee works toward making L improve community access
Watertown a place without barriers to Department information by providing
Consistent with the requirements of walking and biking,where residents can essential Department information and
the WestMetro HOME Consortium, find facilities for their bikes as easily as add new content the website for a
Watertown allocated 5%of its HOME they can for their cars.They continue more friendly interface;in addition t
funds to support CHDO operating to work to expanded commuting and continuously maintaining and updating
expenses.The WHP also reworked its recreational paths for walkers and cyclists, the website with meeting notices,agendas,
policy on Capital Improvements and connecting Watertown to neighboring applications,etc.
recapture of funds from the 19 remaining towns,allowing a reduced dependence on
American Dream Downpayment Initiative automobiles. The Zoning Office has continuously
provided all meeting notices,agendas,
loans.
In 2015,the committee reached out to and reports on the Zoning website in
The WHP,in connection with other the Livable Streets Alliance to collaborate accordance with State and Local statutory
municipalities in the Consortium,voted and worked on greenway clean-up as part requirements. The Zoning Office has
to commit$237,330 in funding for of Watertown Helps Out,a volunteer day also continued to update recent project
emergency repairs to the roof at Saint developed by the Watertown Community submittals on the"Petitions/Cases for
Joseph Hall.The WHP also committed Foundation.The committee developed a Zoning Relief"webpage,which lists
$185,000 from the Town's Affordable helmet give-away program for children projects recently submitted and updates
Housing Development Fund allow Metro and also discussed ongoing issues in regard the project's milestones through the
West Collaborative Development to hire a to snow shoveling.They also discussed development review and public hearing
contractor to temporarily repair the roof various road projects including Greenough Process,including plans,staff reports,
while a proposal to permanently repair Boulevard,Common Street,and Mt and applicant submittal information and
the roof was bid out.The roof failure was Auburn Street.They presented the most documents,and community meeting and
unanticipated,and the commitment of important projects to the Town Council Public hearing dates.The Office continues
funds maintained 25 affordable units, with one of the greatest priorities finalizing to maintain and provide informational
which were in danger of being lost if the a safe and direct connection through brochures and hand-outs on the Town's
roof was not repaired. Arsenal Park between the Watertown- Zoning webpage for ease of use for
residents,contractors,and business.
68
2.Provide technical expertise by residential neighborhood.The Zoning the GEOTMS permit software for
supporting the Town Council and Board's Decision was appealed and later improvements to better tack compliance
its various Boards,Commissions, withdrawn by the appellant. timelines and fines/fees.
and Committees with reports and
recommendations for consideration New High-Tech R&D Office Building-480 INSPECTOR OF BUILDINGS
at public hearing.In addition to Arsenal Street
providing orientation and introduction A Special Permit was granted to convert .Building Permits Issued 1348
to all new members regarding roles and an existing 73,920 square foot warehouse .Occupancy Permits 53
responsibilities. into an 185,595 square foot,high-tech .Sign Permits 34
research and development office building. .Certificates of Inspection(Alcoholic/Day
Currently,the Zoning Board of Appeals The project also includes connections from Care/Schools/Restaurant) 122
has five(5)full members and two(2) the abutting greenway through the site, .Trench Permits 51
alternate members.Support Staff includes connecting to Coolidge Square. .Complaints Investigated 16
Louise Civetti,Clerk to the Board and
Michael Mena,Zoning Enforcement 3.Improve the permit process by TOTAL FEES COLLECTED: $3,002,689.00
Officer. implementing the Town's GEO TMS .Building Fees Collected $2,619,742.00
permit software and process all permits in .Electrical Fees Collected $282,063.00
During 2015,the Zoning Board of Appeals a timely and efficient manner(within 14 .Plumbing Fees Collected $ 100,884.00
heard and/or acted on 23 petitions in days).
accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. TOTAL ESTIMATED COST OF
c.40A and the Watertown Zoning The Zoning Office is responsible for CONSTRUCTION. $249,086,668.00
Ordinance(WZO).The petitions included: reviewing all development and building .Residential $198,412,908.00
Seven(7)Special Permit Applications; permits to ensure conformance with .Commercial $50,673,760.00
Thirteen(13)Special Permit Finding the Town's Zoning Ordinance and/ .Town owned property(no fees collected)
Applications;One(1)TCA-Variance or identifying the appropriate permit/ $360,000.00
Applications,and Two(2)Appeals relief process to obtain such permits.The
to the Zoning Enforcement Officers' Zoning Office reviewed 1,348 Building TOTAL NEW RESIDENTIAL: 16
Determination.Total fees collected for all Permits and 536 Occupancy permits. .Single-family 1
petitions:$19,728,a 20%decrease from In the course of the year,the Zoning .Two-family 12
the total fees collected in 2014($24,919). Officer also reviewed 36 Sign applications .Multi-family 3
compared to 32 Sign applications in 2014.
Petitions before the Board added There were 26 driveway extensions and/or TOTAL RAZE: 29
residential units for the expected growth new driveway approvals(a 62%increase .Residential 10
the greater Boston area and included from 2014 of 16). .Non-residential 11
significant economic development and .Garage 8
job creation.A few projects that were of The Zoning Office staff attended thirteen
interest are listed below: (13)Zoning Board of Appeals meetings. INSPECTOR OF WIRES
.Permits Issued 721
Greystar Development-58 Irving Street Code Enforcement .Inspections/Re-inspections 1489
A Special Permit was granted for the .Inspections for Occupancy Permits 53
construction of up to 282 residential units In addition to the above,the position of .Complaints Investigated 16
(36 affordable)and 11,000 square feet of the Zoning Enforcement Officer is charged .Fire Investigations 7
retail/commercial space with 465 parking with enforcing code violations in the .Shut downs 5
spaces.This project involved several community.The office has received 49 .Electrical Violation Letters 6
community meetings for public input in code compliance complaints in 2015,of
addition to being evaluated as part of a which 79%,have been resolved to date and TOTAL ELECTRICAL FEES
voluntary,third party design review by the remainder are actively working with COLLECTED $282,063
David Gamble and Associated,contracted the Zoning Office to bring their property Total Electrical Violations(cross wiring,
by the Town.Building permits have been into compliance.The Zoning Enforcement etc.) 49
issued for the demolition of the existing Office also issued nine(9)fines totaling .Residential 42
structures and buildings. $2,900.00. .Commercial 7
Total Meetings 75
Proposed Hotel-80 Elm Street Zoning violations primary consist of .Consultations&information with Town
A Special Permit was denied for a unpermitted residential basement or attic Residents 53
proposed five-story, 104-room hotel. The units,unpermitted driveway expansions, .N Star 3
project was controversial and objections front yard parking and signage. All Code .Electrical Inspectors 12
from the surrounding community Enforcement Cases are being entered into .Street Light outage and follow up 7
included traffic concerns,massing, the GEOTMS permit software for better
height,and conflict with the character tracking and document recordation.
of the surrounding industrial,retail,and The Zoning Office continues to review
69
PLUMBING/GAS INSPECTOR Hopefully during the upcoming year A synopsis of significant activities and
resources will be allotted so that additional accomplishments follow:
•Plumbing Permits Issued 571 personnel can be hired to monitor/
•Gas Permits Issued 422 enforce/investigate issues in a timely Procure State Grants for Energy
•Plumbing Inspections/Re-inspections 1140 fashion that continue to arise on a daily Efficiency Projects-LED Streetlights:
•Gas Inspections/Re-inspections 844 basis.There are also many"Tools"
•Inspections for Occupancy Permits 53 out there,such as Scanning,and On The Energy Manager developed and
•Complaints Investigated 17 Line Permitting that would assist the submitted a Green Communities
•Fire Investigations 8 department to work more efficiently and Competitive Grant Proposal detailing a
•Shut downs 9 spread the work load out over additional project to replace Watertowns remaining
•Plumbing Violation Letters 14 personnel. High Pressure Sodium and Mercury Vapor
Streetlights with highly efficient and long
TOTAL PLUMBING/GAS FEES With the addition of Debbie Helie I cannot lasting LED's.
COLLECTED $100,884 express enough what a great asset she has
Total Plumbing Violations 14 become within the department with her Watertown was awarded this grant for
•Residential 9 computer expertise and knowledge and $207,000 along with an Eversource
•Commercial 5 has been able to bring the department incentive of$93,000,this will fully fund
up into the 21"Century as far as the$300,000 LED Streetlight retrofit
Total Meetings 83 documentation and expediting the work project at no cost to the taxpayer.
•Consultations&information with Town load within the department.
Residents 56 The Energy Manager is tasked with the
•N Star 14 We will continue to strive to provide the overall management of this project.
•Plumbing Inspectors 13 best possible services and information to Benefits to Watertown from this project
the citizens of Watertown and maintain a include:
Additional Information safe environment for them to reside.
•Improved lighting with new state-of-the-
2015 was the busiest in the Department ENERGY OFFICE art LED Streetlights
History.With the hiring of Debbie Helie •$300,000 in Town capital improvements
we have been able to streamline many Watertown's Energy Office was created •Annual energy savings of 308,317 kWh
of the processes within the department. in 2015 by the Town Council per the •Reduction in Green House gasses of 234
Without her assistance and expertise recommendation of Town Manager tons CO2e per year
the permit process would have been with strong support from Watertown's •$57,500 savings in annual electricity and
unmanageable based on the volume of Environment and Energy Efficiency maintenance costs
permits presented. Committee.
Performance Contract Final
As stated in last year's report,numerous In March Watertown's first Energy Commissioning&Measurement and
large projects started.These were in the Manager,Ed Lewis,started working in the Verification:
range of$50 million construction cost and Community Development and Planning
did,and will continue to,take a major part Department.This position was initially Watertown hired Johnson Controls
of the departments resources to monitor. funded by a State grant thru the Mass to implement a$7M+Energy Saving
Department of Energy Resources. Performance Contract.Under the
In spite of the requested need for performance contract investment grade
additional personnel,the volume of The Energy Manager position is multi- audits of Town and School facilities
permits issued increased approximately faceted and charged with increasing the identified needed capital improvements
45%from 2014 and approximately 100 sustainability of Watertown Municipal that had energy,operational and
%over 2013.The total fees collected in operations thru identifying energy and maintenance savings potential.A list of
fiscal year 2015 were approximately$3 cost saving opportunities,reviewing and energy saving measures were selected
million dollars and increase of about 100 analyzing energy consumption data, and these measures,which included
%over the previous year and about 100% recommending/implementing best weatherization,lighting improvements,
over fiscal year 2013.All of the above was practices for mechanical and building controls and mechanical systems upgrades
completed without any additional staff systems operation,and providing energy were implemented and many are already
over the last 12 years. efficiency consulting to town and school saving the town money.
facilities.
There appears to be numerous large projects The Energy Manager came onboard
projected for the end of fiscal year 2016 and The goals of the Energy Manager are to for the critical final commissioning of
running into 2017.With this projection I promote and oversee Town sustainability the project.Having a dedicated energy
would estimate that the fees collected and activities,reduce Watertown's carbon engineer allowed a significant decrease in
permits issue will continue to increase at a footprint and save the Town energy and the cycle time for resolution of issues and
rate of approximately 50%per year. money. confirmation the systems are performing
to design specifications.
70
After the final commissioning and these arrays provided over$30,000 of cost The Energy Manager provides a direct
acceptance of the performance contract savings. link between Watertown's volunteer
the critical Measurement and Verification Environment&Energy Efficiency
(M&V)phase will begin.ZVatertown's The DPW array by itself has generated Committee and the town.This includes
partnership with Johnson Controls will over 273,000 kWh of clean,renewable attending scheduled and impromptu
span 20 years and it is imperative to electricity since its installation.This is meetings and conference calls,providing
get the M&V process correct to ensure equivalent to the annual electric use of 39 updates on town-wide sustainability
quantitatively that Watertown is realizing Mass homes and has reduced Watertown's activities,and providing technical analysis
the energy savings the contract calls Green House Gas emissions by 208 tons of of potential sustainability projects.
for.The Energy Manager is tasked with CO2e.
working closely with Johnson Controls Educational Outreach:
and our utility suppliers to confirm the Community Outreach—Faire on the
contracted energy savings are obtained Square: The Energy Manger met with the
and if not confirm that Johnson Controls management of Watertown's Public
makes up any shortfalls. The Energy Manager participated in Schools and the sustainability message and
Watertown's annual"Faire on the Square" suggested activities were well received.
When the Performance Contract project where he promoted energy conservation With the educators input an activity-
is complete it will reduce overall energy and sustainability best practices. based-learning module with directly
consumption at the facilities it covers by The Energy Manager manned the booth actionable items the children can do to
over 20%. for the daylong event.The booth had save energy and reduce their,and their
posters of Watertown's three solar arrays, families,environmental impact was
Renewable Generation-Municipal PV along with details of Sustainability projects developed and presented to students in
feasibility study: the Town has accomplished,or that are two school programs.
in progress,along with information
The Energy Manager is in charge of on energy related services available to Positive feedback from both the educators
managing a$25,000 grant received from residents. and the students was received.
the Mass Clean Energy Center which is
evaluating Watertown Municipal and Over 300 Mass Save brochures were Interface with State Department of
School buildings and land for potential distributed,they included information on; Energy Resources:
rooftop or canopy solar deployment.
.Free residential energy audits The Energy Manager is the primary
The administration of this grant includes •Low cost loans for energy upgrades interface with the State Department
direct management of the consultants .Oil and propane heating rebates of Energy Resources and the Green
providing the work,coordinating and •Free energy audits for multi-family Communities Division.
interfacing with the town departments and residences
resources required to conduct the study, •Energy assistance programs for income Watertown will soon celebrate its 6t'
submitting the preliminary interconnect eligible residents anniversary as a Green Community.
permits to Eversource,and completing the Becoming a Green Community has
grant administration activities required by In-depth conversations were held with allowed the Town to be eligible for
the State. many residents and they were pleased to state grants for energy efficiency and
get a better understanding of the Town's renewable energy projects.However,
Watertown's size,population density and Sustainability activities and appreciated maintaining Green Community status
roof age of large Municipal buildings receiving actionable information on how requires the submission of a Green
present a significant challenge to large they can save energy,money and reduce Communities Annual Report,which
scale Solar Array deployment,however their carbon footprint. exhaustively details all of the Town and
many sites are under evaluation. School's municipal energy consumption
Community Outreach-Watertown and sustainability activities.The Energy
Renewable Generation-Performance Sustainability Website: Manager is responsible for assembling and
Confirmation of Town Solar Arrays: The Energy Manager updates and analyzing the energy consumption data
maintains Watertown's Energy and compiling and submitting the annual
The Energy Manager confirms the Conservation/Sustainability webpage report.
performance/annual output of the Towris to provide all residents access to relevant
Solar Arrays at the DPW,the Police energy and sustainability activities and Since the base year of 2010 Watertown has
Station and High School and compiles and resources.This site can be found under the reduced its weather normalized Municipal
submits the mandatory State Reporting. Community Development and Planning energy usage,and the resulting Green
page. House Gas emissions,by over 18%.
All three arrays are performing well, Watertown has a proud history of
at or above design specifications,and Community Outreach-Interface with Sustainability,the addition of the Energy
are providing cost savings and carbon the Environment&Energy Efficiency Office helps ensure that trend continues
reduction benefits to Watertown,in 2015 Committee: and accelerates,further reducing
71
Watertown's carbon footprint and saving sediment before it reaches the pond.The began in late 2012.In 2014,the US Army
the town energy and money. work will include additional planting of Corps of Engineers(ACOE)working
native aquatic species within the pond. with Charter Environmental completed
CONSERVATION COMMISSION the process of restoring the site which
Determinations of Applicability includes a capped contamination area and
Marylouise Pallotta McDermott,Chair a replicated wetland area and for passive
Charles C.Bering 202-204 Pleasant St.—A negative recreation.The Commission will now wait
Patrick Fairbairn determination was issued for an applicant for the MA Department of Conservation
Leo G.Martin wanting to demolish a garage and and Recreation to design this proposed
Maria P.Rose returning the space to green along the passive recreation area.
Louis M.Taverna Charles River Bank.The CC advised with
Christopher J.Hayward,Conservation some special conditions to ensure the 2015 MACC Conference—Maria Rose,
Agent demolition from encroaching on the bank Patrick Fairbairn and Charles Bering
of the Charles which helped the applicant attended the annual MACC conference on
The Conservation Commission(CC) to choose eco-friendly materials given the March 5,2015.
received four Notice of Intent(NOI) natural habitat of the area.
applications in 2015. HISTORICAL COMMISSION
175 No.Beacon St,Perkins School for
Order of Conditions(OOC)were issued the Blind—A negative determination was Members
for: issued allowing for the installation of an David J.Russo,Jr.,Chair
ADA compliant sidewalk to be installed Donald S.Berg
Charles River(Watertown portion) for the sight impaired users of Bradlee J.B.Jones
at Faneuil Brook outfall—An OOC Field on campus. Elizabeth H.Loukas
was issued to the MA Department of Thomas Melone
Conservation and Recreation to dredge Ongoing Projects: Marilynne K.Roach
4,900 cubic yards of sediment within a Susan Steele
37,000 square foot area of the Charles Filippello Park—The Conservation Christopher J.Hayward,Preservation
River.This project was proposed in order Commission is collaborating with the Agent
to restore the flow of the river from years Recreation Department and Department
of sediment deposit. of Public Works to determine priority The Historic Commission(HQ
needs and uses for the new space based on reviewed building demolitions permits
Charles River Pedestrian Bridge citizen comments received.A concept plan for properties of 50 years and older,in
replacement-An OOC was issued to was produced and presented to the public accordance to the Watertown Demolition
the MA Department of Conservation at an October 6,2015 meeting.The CC Delay Ordinance.During 2015,33
and Recreation for the replacement of the hopes that the improvements will allow the Watertown structures over 50 years
pedestrian bridge located near the Dealtry installation of fencing originally located old were proposed for demolition.The
Pool.The bridge was not Americans with at the Isabella Steward Gardner Museum Historical Commission conducted 34
Disabilities Act(ADA)compliant due to gifted by the Mt.Auburn Cemetery. public hearings and found three of the
its steepness.The new bridge is proposed reviewed properties to be of preferably
to have a much lower profile. Whitney Hill-In 2013 the Town Council preserved status for which a delay was
voted positively on a resolution to declare imposed.Those properties were 301
Dealtry Pool Spray Deck project—An Whitney Hill Park as parkland.Within Common St,276 Waverley Ave(which was
OOC was issued to the MA Department that resolution the Town council voted given a 12-month delay originally until a
of Conservation and Recreation to replace in language that states the Conservation new buyer proposed a new replacement
the former wading pool at the Dealtry Commission,through the Conservation building which lifted the delay),and 9
Pool,which had not been used in many Agent,shall submit to the Town Manager, Myrtle St.
years,with a new spray deck. each year prior to December 3I't,a
recommended plan for maintenance and Preservation Awards-The Commission
Mt.Auburn Cemetery Willow Pond educational activities for Whitney Hill did not hold an Annual Preservation Night
project-Mt.Auburn Cemetery cherishes Park.In 2014 a property line survey was in 2015.
the three ponds located within its property completed which completely delineates
limits,Halcyon Lake,Auburn Lake and the full boundary of the 10.18 acres.A The awards that are up for consideration
Willow Pond.Willow Pond was the focus preliminary study of the flora and fauna each year are:
of this year's project.The project proposed of the park was conducted in the fall of
a design to improve water quality and 2013 by Patrick Fairbairn of the CC,Eric 1)The Richard E.Mastrangelo Memorial
wildlife habitat in Willow Pond by Hiltunen of the Watertown High School Award is given to any individual elected or
removing two deteriorating storm water and students in Mr.Hiltunen's class.This employed by the Town of Watertown who
pipes from discharging into the pond project continued through 2015. has actively been a champion in supporting
bank,and to create a plunge pool in the GSA—The clean-up of the GSA site the preservation of a Historical Resource.
adjacent buffer zone intended to trap 2)The Citizenship Award is given to any
72
individual who has taken a leadership role property owner can purchase a 9"x I I" and Japanese Tree Lilac.Following best
in the effort to educate the community-at- oval plaque,identifying the age,original management practices,trees planted under
large about local historical preservation owner,and the architect/builder of their power lines were restricted to those that
issues or concerns. property for display.The Commission will not mature over 30 feet tall.
researches and verifies the property
3)The Community Spirit Award is information.During 2015,5 plaques were During 2015 a total of 105 street trees were
given to any individual who has taken purchased.To date, 148 historic plaques removed due to safety reasons.
a leadership role in the advancement have been purchased.
of appreciation for Watertown's unique Watertown held an Arbor Day event in
cultural make up. HISTORIC DISTRICT 2015.The event took place at the Cunniff
COMMISSION Elementary School.The Tree Warden
4)The Service to Youth Award is given to gave a presentation to the students and
any individual,group or project directed Members staff of the school.The presentation
at the children of Watertown which fosters Harvey Steiner,Chairman included a discussion on the benefits of
the study of subjects of local historical Carolyn Famiglietti trees and also the importance of clean
interest or encourages the participation John Hecker storm water runoff.Each student,teacher
of children in subjects of historical Linda Sternberg and volunteer that was present received a
preservation. Kenneth Sheytanian Fraser fir seedling for planting at home.A
Christopher J.Hayward,Preservation dwarf apple tree was planted in the school's
5)The Architectural Preservation Agent courtyard as part of a program that
Award is given to any individual,group teaches students about the growing cycle
or project associated with the betterment The Historic District Commission of fruiting plants.Butler and Sons Tree
of any building within Watertown that (HDC)Office received 14 applications for Service,owned by Joe Butler and located
exhibits the use of architectural restoration Certificates for proposed projects within in Watertown,donated pruning and tree
standards or methods. the Historic District.The HDC issued maintenance services to the trees along the
2 Certificates of Appropriateness,13 front of the school.This generous service
6)The Environmental Preservation Certificates of Non-Applicability. was provided as part of a program run by
Award is given to an individual,group, the Massachusetts Arborists Association
or project associated with the betterment TREE WARDEN entitled`Arbor Day of Service"School
of any property within Watertown which principal,Mena Ciarlone,as well as Jay
exercises techniques that restore the Francione,school facilities manager were
property of active community or private Christopher J.Hayward,MCA very pleased with Mr.Butler's generosity.
uses and or displays a beautification to any Tree Warden
property which had previously fallen into
disrepair or neglect. With an active Tree Warden under
Massachusetts General Law Chapter 87,
7)The Historical Resources Preservation a tree division under the Department
of Public Works,an appropriate annual
Award is given to any individual,group
or project which supports the efforts budget for community forestry programs
of preserving historical resources and and an official Arbor Day observance and
provides accessibility to them to the entire Proclamation,Watertown continued to
community. qualify for Tree City USA designation, Cunniff school students with seedlings and
twenty-one consecutive years and running, new apple tree
During the year, 150 trees were planted.
Walter&Fuller Street trees accounted for the majority
Charles C.nonki of the tree plantings although trees were
1912 Planted in residents'front yards when a
suitable location could not be found on the
street.
Watertown Historical —
Commission Continuing with the policy adopted in
2001 to diversify street tree plantings,
different trees were planted.The trees
Butler and sons Tree service
planted this year along the streets of
Historic Plaque Program-The Watertown were:Honey locust,Black In August 2008,the Asian Longhorned
Commission continued the Watertown gum,Red maple,Cleveland select pear,
Gingko,Sweet um,Pin oak,Hornbeam, beetle was discovered in Worcester,MA
n
Historic Plaque Program.For$65 a g g and in July 2010 the beetle was found in
Akebono cherry,Rubber tree,Crab apple,
73
Boston in 6 trees at the Faulkner Hospital.
This invasive pest has no known predators
in North America and if left alone,it ' s
would decimate the maple forests of the
northeastern United States.The six trees
in Boston were removed and a 1.5 mile
radius quarantined area was set around
the location of those infested trees.Over
30,000 infested trees have been removed is
in Worcester and the number will grow.
It had not been discovered in Watertown .07
in 2015 but informational presentations
at scheduled Tree Hearings continued
and will continue until it is known that _
the threat to our urban forest has been
v �
removed. Commander's Mansion � ■
z I
The Commander's Mansion turned 150!
~! r o Mark Sideris,Watertown Town Council
President,welcomed everyone to the _
150th Anniversary Celebration that took Decedents of Commanding Officer Charles B.
place on Sunday,Sept. 13,2015,at the wheeler
Commander's Mansion. Wicked Local Staff
Photos/Ann Ringwood Wedding Season:the Commander's
Mansion continues to host a diversity of
celebrations;even four legged friends are
welcomed to walk down the aisle!
Asian Longhorned Beetle It
On September 12,2012 another _
new invasive pest made its way into
Massachusetts.The Emerald Ash Borer
was discovered in the town of Dalton MA.
Dalton is located approximately 130 miles si
northwest of Boston.This pest feeds only ?,
on Ash(Fraxinus sp.)trees.It has wiped
out between 50 to 100 million ash trees in .L
the upper Midwestern states and threatens
to destroy up to 7.5 billion throughout
North America.Treatment options and
controls are being worked on by state and
federal government agencies.The pest had
not been discovered in the Watertown area
at the time of this report but the general
feeling is that it is only a matter of time. revels singers
Ash is not a species in great abundance
in Watertown.In 2015 there are only 65
individual trees recorded with most likely
no more than 100 owned by the town.
1
74
Holiday Season:our annual holiday open
house was another success due in part to
the local businesses that donated in-kind
services and sweet treats! It drew the
tcommunity in with a Gingerbread Contest,
i beautifully decorated rooms courtesy of A A►
the Watertown Home Depot,beautifully
adorned mantels and exterior courtesy
of DPW,story time with Mrs.Claus and
of course,not to be missed,a visit from
our favorite Santa courtesy of Watertown
Savings Bank!
A BIG JOLLY THANK YOU
TO OUR LOCAL FRIENDS'
x 7t• :o"SarAUpr Bank
V*L -�,a x,d on A kgSsr io.Ce xr
Mite•town Hone Depot
WOpt—De wWwtdkkkVA•°
Took Toppen of Ne"On
Watertown Main it.floret
U,rst'Oor> �Morwgc.*,.,t Gn,1
y Aop&%M Viawwwt
I Rrot
1 Btvdt lrr pAetap,
�4�M11M�p1�Dtoa�b•
r7MM4 Nni" e.r_..
,,•� +VULAV vt
1 S
2016 is gearing up to be a busy year with
5 ' outdoor tented weddings,corporate
summer outings and in-house seasonal
events. We look forward to our continued
relationships with the local community,
and increasing our visual presence through
networking and social media.
WATERTOWN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
The various sections of this report were instruction was also provided.The Health allow students more opportunities in the
written by the Principals,Curriculum and Wellness,Music and Art,Career science curriculum.
Coordinators and Central Office and Technical Education and English
Administrators. as a Second Language Department also During the 2014 school year,students,
received funding for new and existing staff and community members began a
The Schools curriculum materials.Special Education discussion of the WHS logo.While many
and the Guidance Department purchased saw tradition in the commonly used but
The Watertown Public Schools promote much needed materials. not authorized logo,many others saw
high achievement through inquiry, an offensive representation of Native
problem solving,collaboration,creativity A number of new positions were funded. Americans.After months of discussion,
and hard work.We provide students with Elementary,Secondary Core Curricular it was determined that the status quo
a robust education so they will acquire, Area teachers and World Language and of a sports team name Raiders and no
apply,and practice the knowledge and TV Production teachers were hired. authorized logo would remain in effect.
skills needed for self-actualization and A World Language Coordinator and
life-long learning.All programs support Adaptive Physical Education teacher were Watertown High School athletes continue
diverse learning styles,civic interaction, also hired.In addition,specialized teachers to be successful against other teams in
global awareness,and personal success. in the English as a Second Language, the Middlesex League and across the state
Reading,Library,Art and Special in twenty-one varsity sports programs.
In alignment with the District Strategic Education Departments were hired. Student performers shine in the drama
Goals,Watertown Public Schools Though these hires have helped fill gaps program,musicians continue to inspire
supports high academic achievement, in our teaching staff,there are a number through the music program,the robotics
fosters self-actualization and life-long of positions which still need to be funded team,the Kwarqs,had another successful
learning and promotes local and global including classroom and specialized year and all students have access to a
citizenship.The district ensures that each teachers,guidance counselors and para- number of student clubs and organizations
student becomes an accomplished learner professionals. allowing for a wide variety of interests.
in the arts,humanities,mathematics,
physical sciences and social sciences Watertown High School Watertown Middle School
and provides all students with a learning
environment that sets high expectations Watertown High School(WHS)completed Watertown Middle School(WMS)remains
and stimulates thinking,problem- its 167"year of operation in 2014-2015. committed to challenging students with
solving,inquiry,creativity,and hard Starting her second year as principal, rigorous curriculum and instruction,
work.Students develop a capacity for Ms.Shirley Lundberg was joined by supporting all students,providing students
life-long learning through comprehensive Associate Headmaster Ms.Annmarie challenging and engaging enrichment
skill development,exposure to a broad Boudreau Dean of Students Brian Brewer opportunities,promoting a positive school
universe of knowledge and disciplines,and in leading WHS in continuing to innovate climate that caters to the needs of the early
support for a diversity of learning styles, and develop programming to respond to adolescent and connecting with parents
future plans,and personal interests.The changes in 215t century education and an and the larger Watertown community.
Watertown Public Schools ensures that expansion in the range of students served
each student becomes informed about in the special education and ESL programs. Principal J.Kimo Carter and Assistant
and participates in local and world affairs. Principal Jason Del Porto comprise the
Students strive to understand people of Watertown High offers a full college leadership team at WMS along with the
different backgrounds and cultures and the preparatory comprehensive education to curriculum coordinators Maureen Regan
interconnectedness of the contemporary students while also offering a variety of (English Language Arts),Dan Wulf
world. alternatives for students who do not plan (Mathematics),Kraig Gustafson(Social
on attending four-year colleges.A number Studies),Lynsey Kramer(Science),Yvonne
The one-time curriculum appropriation of of new courses were introduced to the Endara(English as a Second Language),
$750,000 provided funding for texts and high school this year.These included a Barbara Gortych(Guidance and
materials for all schools in the district. bio-futures course which was developed Testing),and Toni Carlson(Information
Curriculum materials were purchased for to introduce students to cutting-edge Technology).This team works to oversee
English Language Arts($251,890),Math technology in the biology classroom using curriculum and instruction,provide for
($151,121),Science($61,121),Social hands-on methods and a video production academic transitions both to and from
Studies($21,108)and World Language and multi-media course made possible middle school and support teachers to
($13,148).Funding for professional through a gift from Watertown Cable reach every student.
development around curriculum and Access TV Newly renovated science labs
76
Watertown Middle School works diligently Pink'raised funds for this important was Honor Petrie.
at helping students master basic numeracy issue through the sale of t-shirts and by
and literacy skills and also focuses on collecting money during lunches.Students At the elementary level,the Lowell
other very important skills required also made over 900 pink ribbons to pass School community engaged in a school-
for the 21't Century.Students develop out so that all students,faculty and staff wide service project in conjunction with
important inquiry,design,wellness,and could show their support.These ribbons Caring School Community buddies.At
study skills that will serve them well as are still present on students'backpacks, least once a month students had"buddy
they become adults.Whether it is through hats,and in teachers'classrooms.The night time"to work together with their cross-
literature analysis,a science lab,a primary before,many students gathered to decorate age buddies.The Lowell School also held
source from history,or online technology, the school and give it a festive and fun its first two International Nights.The
students are learning to make sense of feel for the day.The project raised$1,250 evenings were very successful in bringing
all the information around us by asking which was donated to the Dana-Farber a record number of families and teachers
the right questions,organizing data to Cancer Institute. together to learn about the diverse cultures
find patterns,and searching for bias. at the school.
Once students have made sense of the WHS students again attended Camp
information,they are creating projects that Casco in Maine to work with children Departments and Programs
bring new meaning to the information at with life threatening diseases and their
hand.This is done through a wide variety families.They ran a successful"Toys for Elementary Curriculum
of hands-on activities,presentations,the Tots"campaign and Kindergarten Book
arts,and other showcasing opportunities. Drive.A new club was formed,the Global Teachers are using curriculum maps
Youth Alliance,to raise fund for issues which align assessment,curriculum and
Enrichment programs at WMS add that impact youth around the world.Club instruction and meet to revise the ELA and
to the development of a well-rounded members held a fundraiser which involved Math maps.Librarians and IT specialists
student.Students can take advanced duct-taping two teachers to a wall with the are teaching inquiry based,critical
art,band,orchestra,chorus,leadership, funds raised going to the Pediatric AIDS thinking skills using the"Big Six"model
literature exploration,newspaper,robotics Foundation.The club also raised funds of Task Definition,Information Seeking
and theatre and video production for the Malala Fund and To Write Love Strategies,Location and Access,Use of
as electives.Many after school clubs on Her Arms,a non-profit movement Information,Synthesis,and Evaluation.
including community explorers,computer dedicated to presenting hope and finding Lesson plans aligned to the elementary
programming,games,dance,art,volleyball help for people struggling with depression, curriculum map are formulated so that
and leadership are offered.Participation addiction,self-injury,and suicide.The librarians,in conjunction with other
rates for school sports are at an all-time club's final project for the year was the teachers,can teach technology and
high with many of the teams having Walk for Hunger. informational literacy skills mandated by
successful seasons this year. the common core curriculum.
At Watertown Middle School,community
Watertown Middle School is making a service is an integral part of student Tier Time allows grade level teams to
concerted effort to communicate with life.A Thanksgiving project yielded 40 provide students with tiered instruction
parents and reach out to the community. Thanksgiving baskets which were delivered in the content areas of reading and
We are making parents aware of to Watertown families and an additional mathematics.This project requires a
upcoming events in a number of ways: eight families received gift cards.In great deal of assessment,planning and
through automatic phone messages,our December and January students collected collaboration.Tier Time groups are fluid
"Watertown Splash"student newspaper,a 654 coats and jackets for the Coats for and enable students to work with peers
much more extensive web site and through Kids program,surpassing their goal of 500. with similar reading and math skills.
constant,active communication by our The Pennies for Patients drive raises funds
faculty to parents. which are donated to the Leukemia and The Seeds of Science Program links
Lymphoma Society and held in memory reading,writing and science as students
Community Service and honor of many in the Watertown explore a variety of topics using the
Middle School community who have had informational texts including Gravity
Watertown Public Schools students make a either leukemia or lymphoma. and Magnetism,Soil Habitats,Shoreline
large positive impact on their community Science,Light Energy,Weather and Water,
through their service projects.Some of the Project 351,a state-wide project developed Variation and Adaptation,Models of
projects have been in place for a number of by Governor Patrick,has a mission to Matter,Planets and Moons,and Aquatic
years;other projects are new.All projects unite 8th grade Service Ambassadors from Ecosystems.
are student-driven with teachers and staff every city and town in the Commonwealth
acting as advisors and mentors. for an inspirational year of community Elementary Library and technology
service,leadership development and classes use diverse forms of literature and
At Watertown High School a new enrichment.The project incorporates the informational text,written and online,
student-initiated event was held in values of kindness,compassion,humility to help students explore many topics.
October to bring awareness to breast and generosity of spirit.The 2014-2015 Students spent several weeks learning to
cancer."Watertown High School Thinks Watertown Middle School Ambassador
77
code,create movies,keyboard and explore specific common tasks.For example,all 9' Science Department (6-12)
the many resources in both the library and grade students write,research,revise and
on the internet. present an original persuasive speech while The Science department continues
12th grade students explore persuasion via development of curriculum maps for each
Learning Gardens have had a very an advertising project requiring creation course in the department with teachers
successful first season bringing together of an original product and marketing adding Common Core writing standards
the larger community of students,families, campaign that includes print,radio and to each map.These specific standards
teachers,and community members. TV ads. are frequently met through lab reports
It taught all involved about the value submitted after laboratory experiments.
of a garden and about earth to table Writing for different audiences and The department is working on creating
cooking and eating.Once the school year purposes is a constant thread in ELA District Determined Measures(DDMs)
commenced,classes used the garden classrooms.Students are presented with with teachers who teach similar classes
in their science and literacy lessons.It a variety of writing tasks ranging from collaborating as they develop common
became a true outdoor classroom. speeches to journals and memoirs to essays assessments.The goal is for each science
and research papers,The class,Falling teacher to pilot and review a DDM as part
A new math program,Math in Focus,has from Grace:Crime,Politics and Sports in of a collaborative team.Science teachers
been implemented in grades kindergarten American Culture engages students in have also spent time learning about the
through 5.The program has a focused and examining fictitious and real world heroes Globally Harmonized System(GHS)for
coherent syllabus with fewer topics which and events that have shaped American chemical labeling by participating in a
are explored in greater depth.It employs culture and identity.Opportunities for video training session administered by
a visual and balanced approach with an students to encounter live and performing Flinn Scientific,Inc.and continuing to
emphasis on problem solving using model arts are available from StoriesLive,a story update the chemical inventories created
drawing.It stresses the importance of writing and performance curriculum last year.Several teachers are part of a
attitudes and metacognition. with a possibility of the New Repertory cross-disciplinary team,partially funded
Theater's A Midsummer Night's Dream through the Perkins Grant,working to
The elementary English Language Arts coming this year.The Writers Ink club expand and enhance course offerings for
program is a balanced literacy model with has been resurrected with a plan to bring non-college bound students.
reading,writing and word study.Emphasis students to the Student Day of Poetry in
is on phonemic awareness,fluency, Boston. In order to graduate,students are required
comprehension and vocabulary in reading, to pass a minimum of three Science
narrative,expository and persuasive Through the use of varied texts,the courses.Each course targets a different
writing and handwriting,spelling and English Language Arts department concentration with most students studying
grammar in word study. explores issues of race,gender,ethnicity physics,chemistry,and biology with
and cultural identity.Various courses additional concentrations in engineering,
English Language Arts Department offer examinations of difficult,sometimes astronomy,anatomy and physiology,
(6-12) fraught,subject matter using both fiction computer repair,computer-aided design,
and informational texts.Socratic seminars, and woodworking.Several science courses
Building upon work begun last year,
structured discussion and tailored writing include career applications;Introduction
assignments allow students to explore g P to Medical Careers includes bi-weekly
the English department has continued
issues and ideas of the present age. visits to a medical simulation lab and
mapping all courses,aligning these with performances and presentations such as To Mount Auburn Hospital.Honors Biology
the MA ELA Frameworks and Common Kill a Mockingbird b theNew Repertory g by P Y students have begun a partnership with
Core State Standards.Additionally,
and StoriesLivc story slams bring the world the Whitney Hill Conservation Group
development of common assessments and its issues to students.Transitional
and rubrics for various courses in order using GPS tools to plot the region and
to evaluate student work continues thus English and Contemporary Literature signify different species within the area.
ensuring high standards and substantially are specifically focused upon"people of Level One and Honors Biology classes
different backgrounds and cultures and the have continued working with the MIT
similar learning experiences for all interconnectedness of the contemporary Biograph program to study biological
students.9'grade ELA classes are piloting world".Extracurricular activities advised concepts through a complex systems
"writing to text"District Determined b ELA teachers include clubs such as
Measures[DDMs;all other grades Y lens.Several science teachers are part
and ELA courses are in the planning Writers Ink, Word Painter,the literary of a cross-disciplinary team working to
magazine,and the Badminton Club,a new expand and enhance course offerings for
stages of DDMs in preparation for full group that is popular among many of our non-college bound students.Many science
implementation in SY 2014-2015].The international students. courses require students to complete
teaching of"close reading strategies';
grade specific language progressive skills in-depth projects that rely upon direct
and rhetorical devices are common application of the course content.For
departmental goals with an emphasis on example,physics students must design a
research skills,persuasive writing and container in which to successfully mail
five Pringles chips,design working yo-yos,
effective presentation strategies with grade
water clocks,tight-rope walkers,and roller
78
coaster models.Chemistry students build and history.World History classes have The changes have a dual focus on common
rockets and identify unknown inorganic partnered with the Armenian Library themes of mechanics/language and
chemicals through a series of qualitative of America for research projects and US higher-order reasoning skills.The Math
and quantitative experiments.Each of History courses have used simulations Frameworks and various math courses,
these experiences exposes the students to of the stock market and mercantilism to leagues,technology and initiatives have
a unique aspect of the scientific field and link economic theory to historical events. been reworked at both the high and
facilitates student engagement and life- The senior elective Economics course middle schools.Watertown High School
long learning. has partnered with Bentley University in courses which are affected are Applied
the development of a marketing project, Algebra,Algebra II,Precalculus,Statistics
In each Science class at both the high and with Bentley and WHS students working (both L1 and Honors)and AP Calculus.
middle schools,students frequently work collaboratively over successive weeks Algebra I,Honors Calculus and AP
collaboratively in groups to complete to prepare WHS students for a project Statistics have already been upgraded to
laboratory experiments,projects,and presentation at the University.Research reflect the new frameworks.At Watertown
other assignments.Each of these activities projects regularly focus on historical and Middle School,the Connected Math
gives our students an opportunity to socially important issues which cultivate Project(CMP3)is being piloted in 61h
work with individuals who have different good writing and research techniques and grade with implementation planned for
backgrounds and cultures.Additionally, a working knowledge of MLA citation and the 7t'grade in FY16 and for the 8"grade
teachers discuss science-related current formatting requirements. in FY17. CMP3 has been completed
events.These discussions allow students to redesigned and built specifically for the
learn about science at both the local and The Social Studies department has Common Core.
global levels and to learn about different, partnered with a number of community
practical applications of science, organizations including Facing History "The Hour of Code"was done in all
and Ourselves,The GLOBE Consortium secondary math classes.This is a one hour
Social Studies Department(6-12) (for a one night a week class on Global introduction to computer science and is
Citizenship hosted by Harvard University), designed to demystify"code"and to show
The Social Studies department has The Historical Society of Watertown and that any can learn the basics to be a maker,
developed common assessments focusing the Loukas Family(sponsoring essay a creator and an innovator.An enrichment
on Common Core competencies and state contests on local history and immigrants' course at WMS has been upgraded to an
standards including the development contributions to local and regional introductory Scratch programming course
of course maps and common grading culture)and World in Watertown through and has been increased to two sections.An
practices in core classes.Summer its Martin Luther King/Unity Breakfast introductory programming course at WHS
assignments for US History I and US essay contest that focuses on student's is being piloted.This is a one semester
History II feature site visits in preparation experiences with Dr.King's work and course offered in both the spring and fall.
for an in-class presentation in September. message.Our teachers also advise the Future plans include an AP Computer
US History and World History classes Greater Boston Regional Student Advisory Science course.
have incorporated elements of the arts Council(GBRSAC),the Model UN Club,
and social sciences in the study of world the IDS Club,and the Invisible Children The Continental Math League(CML)
governments,economic models,music, Club,visit a prison as part of Project is offered in grades 6-8 with 2 levels of
and art of different time periods and Youth,and regularly feature guest speakers difficulty in all grades.A WMS 7"grade
cultures. AP European History class puts from the Massachusetts Department of student has not missed a question to date
the key players and groups of the French Children and Families,town council on the advanced exam!
Revolution on trial for the midterm candidates,WWII and Vietnam veteran
exam as students play varied roles and speakers,a juvenile court judge,and the Document cameras in all WHS math
the outcome of the trial(and appropriate Watertown Police Department.The Civics classrooms except one,iPads and stands
credit for the participants)is determined class also conducts voter registration in use at WMS and SMART boards are
by a jury of former AP Euro students. drives,Selective Service registration, examples of instructional technology in
Organizational and note-taking skills and Red Cross blood drives.The AP US use in WPS math classes.
are taught using computer-,internet-, History class,with the assistance of the
and paper-based learning strategies that Veterans Services Officer and the Music Fine, Applied and Performing Arts
couple with discipline-specific writing and department,organizes and presents the (K-12)
comprehension skill practices based on annual Memorial Day assembly.
national standards. The mission of the Watertown Public
Secondary Math(6-12) Schools Fine Arts Program is to
As they develop their curriculum,Social foster creative expression in students
Studies teachers focus on Common Core Responding to new Massachusetts by providing the essential skills and
Writing and Reading standards,leading to Department of Elementary and Secondary knowledge necessary for those who
a bolstering of those highly transferrable Education requirements for admission wish to pursue a career in the arts.The
skills.AP European History students to Massachusetts State Colleges and program also seeks to create a sensitivity
visit the Museum of Fine Arts to see Universities,there is a new graduation to and respect for the arts in all students,
the relationship between European art requirement for Watertown High School.
79
enhancing the quality of their lives and an School,multi-media presentations and materials,increase the Hosmer part-time
understanding of the diversity of human keyboarding skills. position to a full-time position to support
expression in the global village in which the preschool and a Family Outreach
we all live. In order to help mitigate the challenges Liaison.
associated with use of cart devices,an
Watertown Public Schools offers an array initiative to develop a 1:1 Chromebook Guidance and Assessment
of courses which include general art program for students in 8"grade is Department (K-12)
courses from kindergarten through 8t" planned.This initiative is in line with
grade with a design course taught in grade mandates at the federal and state levels.
6,2D,3D and media art electives at the The funds from the one-time town Guidance Counselors work closely
high school and an Advanced Placement allocation allowed for the purchase of With students struggling with academic
course in Studio Art.Weekly general music library books for every school's library, achievement. part of academic
courses are offered in preschool through SmartBoards for every library and counseling,theeyy may adjust class schedules
t
6t''grade with support from The Friends of additional Chromebooks for PARCC s confer with specific teachers a
Watertown Music.Performing arts start in preparation.WPS plans to continue student's behalf Guidance Counselors are
the 4t"grade with string,band and choral to purchase books and periodicals,to often the gentle but effective mechanism
programs.Courses are offered as electives create full time librarian positions at the Which keeps students focused and
during the school day as well as before and Watertown Middle,Hosmer and Cunniff Progressing towards their academic goals.
after school programs.Drama is offered Schools,to hire Technology Integrations
in 8t''grade as an elective.Before and after Specialists to support teachers at the Each Guidance Counselor works very
school theater programs are offered at the Watertown High and Middle Schools and specifically with assigned Junior and
middle and high schools. to institute STEAM. Senior students to explore their strengths,
talents and future goals.Over time,these
The program would benefit from a Fine, English as a Second Language conversations coalesce into a clearer sense
Applied and Performing Arts Coordinator of self and a definite direction for both
to help the program develop and grow. career and college choice.
The goal of the English as a Second
Staffing for drama at the high school (ESL)ua Lan
would give students the opportunity to Language( )program in Watertown Through the Advisory program,students
study all the facets of drama.In order is to provide students with the skills are grouped heterogeneously and meet
needed to function successfully in an once every seven school days as a group
to continue t offer small music group English speaking environment.ESL classes with a staff member.Most advisories have
instruction,staffing must be increased and develop proficiency m communicating support for repair,storage and acquisition p p y g at least one peer leader to help facilitate
in both social and academic settings.In the sessions.The curriculum introduces
of instruments is needed.Integration of e Learner uah Lan
Arts into the STEM program,creating a Watertown,English Language students to many topics that are important
(ELL)students are at all levels,including at both the local and global levels.Some
STEAM program is planned. the preschool,and represent thirty-two P P tl'- of these topics include bullying,drugs and
(32)countries,speak twenty-seven(27) alcohol,resume writing,and community
This year,with funding from the one- different lan ua es and represent eight time allocation from the town,the music g g P g service.
program purchased and repaired musical Percent(8%)of the student population.
Another group of students,students whose The Guidance department has three(3)
instruments including 14 new guitars, English first language is not En FLNE ,is
storage units for the instruments,sheet g ( ) overlapping areas;assessment,guidance
g thirty-two percent(32%)of the student and mental health.The assessment area
music,CDs and DVDs.The art program .With funds from the one-time
has purchased tools,storage units and hody includes standardized test administration
town allocation,the ESL department was overseen by the guidance staff,
drying racks. able to purchase Mini iPads and stands,
P psychological assessments overseen by
Empowering Writers materials,ELLevaton the staff psychologists and specialist
Library and Media(K-12) software,WIDA assessment materials and
assessments overseen by the testing
an assortment of classroom materials. council.Needs in this area for FYI
The Library and Information Literacy include replacements of obsolete and used
program teaches students critical skills Teaching ELL students requires a multi- test materials,the purchase of technology
for the 21"century.These include using faceted approach including differentiated to move to on-line testing and the addition
text and online reference materials, instruction,visuals to target instruction, of part-time psychologists for the Cunniff
appreciation of literature,database use, technology and teaching the language and Lowell Schools.The guidance area
source evaluation,media presentation, of content areas.Students use self-paced staff run 504 meetings(section 504 of
author studies and reading genres. independent work,collaborative project the Americans With Disabilities Act)and
Library initiatives include a lifelong love based and culture based learning and write 504 plans,run general education
of reading,book clubs,awards and fairs, non-verbal communication.Future needs team meetings and oversee the Tier
student book talks and multi-subject for the program include additional mini 2 process,organize and administer
collaborations.Educational Technology iPads so that all teachers will have one, standardized tests,conduct the student
skills include internet safety,coding,Lego additional sets of Benchmark Reading registration process,oversee attendance
engineering pilot program at the Cunniff
80
monitoring and intervention,deliver the schools and create more opportunities for Special Education (K-12+)
bullying prevention curriculum,counsel educational trips abroad.These goals will
students and mediate conflicts,liaise with necessitate updating texts and materials The Special Education program educates
parents,teachers and administration to align with current curriculum practices students using comprehensive student
as well as provide college and career and an upgrade to the language labs. support,collaborative practice and data
counseling.Guidance area needs for FYI driven decision making.Using reflective
include bringing the part-time Cunniff Watertown Public Schools has been guiding questions to establish new norms
and High Schools'positions to full-time fortunate to have a teaching position for practice,the department is establishing
and purchasing new bullying prevention/ funded by a grant from the US State a collaborative practice model across the
mental health curriculum.The mental Department for the teaching of Arabic in curriculum using a holistic integrated
health area is an umbrella which includes the middle and high schools.The teachers approach and service delivery model.
many of the staff already discussed.Staff employ a student-centered approach to Data driven decision making is used
members provide a network of care which teaching the Arabic language and culture. when school-based supports are not
spans both general and special education WPS is committed to continuing this enough.Twenty-five(25)Watertown
at all levels.This area also includes program once the grant ends. teachers,instructional assistants and
outside resources such as Academy specialist are trained on behavioral student
staff,Wayside Multi-Service Center, In addition to the Arabic courses,Spanish interventions through a DESE funded
MOVA(Massachusetts Office of Victims and Italian are taught at both the middle grant.
Assistance)support,Advocates and interns and high schools with levels from L1 to
from local universities.Mental health Advanced Placement. The department seeks to increase in-
area needs for 2016 include professional district services to students with emotional
development on critical issues and the Enrichment opportunities include the Dia and behavioral challenges at all levels,
addition of a part-time social worker at the de los Muertos project with guests from develop an integrated support program at
Middle School. Colombia(Partners of the Americas),an the elementary level to support students
art project displayed at the Arsenal Center with emotional and behavioral challenges
World Language (6-12) for the Arts and Spanish projects that and to continue to support the inclusion
promote social justice for Martin Luther model program across the district at all
The goals of the World Language program King,Jr.Day.Educational trips abroad are levels.Increasing supports will allow the
is to ensure student growth through planned for next year. most challenged students to engage and
speaking and writing in a second language, access the educational program,decrease
grow the Arabic program and perhaps Think Board are employed throughout the the out-of-district placements and support
initiate a cultural exchange program, World Language classrooms.Language the reintegration of some students who are
grow the program by developing a World labs and iPads round out the educational currently in out-of-district placements.
Language program in the elementary technology used.
81
Election Summary Report Date:04/19/16
PRELIMINARY ELECTION Time:1 I: of I I
Page: of 1
WATERTOWN, MA
Summary For Jurisdiction Wide, All Counters, All Races
SEPTEMBER 17, 2015
a
Registered Voters 5494-Cards Cast 794 14.45% Num. Report Precinct 3 -Num. Reporting 3 100.00%
DISTRICT B COUNCILLOR
Total
Number of Precincts 3
Precincts Reporting 3 100.0 /o
Times Counted 794/5494 14.5
Total Votes 794
Times Blank Voted 0
CECILIA LENK 228 28.72%,
PATRICIA VAN DILATER 25 3.15%
KEVIN W MACDONALD 195 24.56%
LISA J FELTNER 343 43.20%
Write-in Votes 3 0.38%
Election Summary Report Date:04/19/16
PRELIMINARY ELECTION Tune:11: of I I
Page: of 1
WATERTOWN, MA
Summary For Precinct 4, All Counters, All Races
SEPTEMBER 17, 2015
Registered Voters 1939-Cards Cast 301 15.52% Num. Report Precinct 1 -Num. Reporting 1 100.00%
DISTRICT B COUNCILLOR
Total 1
Number of Precincts 1
Precincts Reporting 1 100.0 %
Times Counted 301/1939 1.5.5 %
Total Votes 301
Times Blank Voted 0
CECILIA LENK 94 31.23%
PATRICIA VAN DINTER 3 1.00%
KEVIN W MACDONALD 61 20.27%
LISA J FELTNER 142 47.18%
Write-in Votes 1 0.33% i
82
Election Summary Report Date:04/19/16
Time:11:04:49
PRELIMINARY ELECTION Page:1 of 1
WATERTOWN, MA
Summary For Precinct 5, All Counters, All Races
SEPTEMBER 17, 2015
Registered Voters 1745-Cards Cast 284 16.28% Num. Report Precinct 1 -Num. Reporting 1 100.00%
DISTRICT B COUNCILLOR
Total
Number of Precincts 1
Precincts Reporting 1 100.0 %
Times Counted 284/1745 16.3 % '?
Total Votes 284
Times Blank Voted 0
CECILIA LENK 48 16.90%
PATRICIA VAN DINTER 17 5.99%
KEVIN W MACDONALD 76 26.76% -"
LISA J FELTNER 142 50.00%
Write-in Votes 1 0.35%
Election Summary Report Date:04/19/16
PRELIMINARY.ELECTION Time:l l;os:o Page Il of
WATERTOWN, MA
Summary For Precinct 6, All Counters, All Races
SEPTEMBER 17, 2015
Registered Voters 1810-Cards Cast 209 11.55% Num. Report Precinct 1 -Num. Reporting 1 100.00%
DISTRICT B COUNCILLOR
Total
s'
Number of Precincts 1
Precincts Reporting 1 100.0 %
Tunes Counted 209/1810 11.5 %
Total Votes 209
Tunes Blank Voted 0
CECILIA LENK 86 41.15%
PATRICIA VAN DINTER 5 2.39%
KEVIN W MACDONALD 58 27.75% i
LISA J FELTNER 59 28.23% j
Write-in Votes 1 0 48% '"