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Home My Public Portal About1997 Annual Watertown Report - ',. TowII of � WATERTOWN 4 Report 'it t r I _ I s i dw , 46, - � 1► ' I r. ent s DeP�' bM aver: bUC ubrar9 Wdren res Chit O's Program °n� 'ew ,YFr bu B Carla D.instructs at Bead Worksho Top r{gbt. .Watertown Free Pu brarY CMdren's Department Bttol" t.Watertown Free PubHC ll FREE PUBLIC,u6RARY WKI-EP-1C'AN, %-!ASS. MAIN LIf; ?f'. .� Town of Watertown 1997 Annual Report - up °� The Town Seal Designed by Charles Brigham, Architect Stoi- of the Watertown Seal On the Watertown seal is a picture of an English Colonist and an Indian exchanging, as peace tokens, bread for fisb. Capt. Roger Clap, who landed at Nantasket Point in 1630, and rowed tip Charles River to Gero,'s Landing with the first party of Watertown Colonists, records the following stole 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 its,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,suppplied us with Bass,exchanging a Bass fora Bisket Cake,mid were very friendly to us. "0 dear children!Forget not what care God had over his dear servants,to watch over and protect its in our weak beginnings. Capt.Syueb 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 then caused many Indians(some hundreds) to be ruled by the advice of one man not `,come iris%.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." t Table Of C OntentS Town Officials and Committees Elected Officials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Appointed Officials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Boards and Committees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Reports of the Town Manager and Town Council TownCouncil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Town Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Report of Town Finances Board of Assessors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Treasurer/Collector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Auditor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Reports of the Offices of Town Administration Personnel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Town Clerk and Elections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Data Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 TownAttorney. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Purchasing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Health Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Councilon Aging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Veterans' Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 SkatingArena. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Department of Public Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Reports of the Departments of Public Safety Police. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 CivilDefense. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Report of the Department of Cointnttnity Development and Planning. . 51 Report of the Department of Public Schools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 VotingResults. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 OR i ID , Watertown Elected Officials Town Council President and Member of the School Committee Richard E. Mastrangelo" 109 Barnard Ave. 926-8588 G.Jack Zollo"" 159 Acton St. 923-1430 Clyde L.Younger" 188 Acton St. 923-0592 Town Councillors At Large Marilyn Petitto Devaney 98 Westminster Ave. 923-0778 Sandra Kasabian Hoffman 20 Middle St. 924-0778 Taso Daskalakis 11 Edgecliff Rd. 924-6237 Mark Sideris 30 Union St. 924-2699 District A Councillor Salvatore Ciccarelli 228 Boylston St. 924-3332 District B Councillor Paul J.Denning 261 Common St. 924-2613 District C. Councillor Stephen E. Romanelli 12 Bancroft St. 926-1807 District D Councillor John H. Portz""" 24 Chapman St. 924-1899 School Committee John C. Bartley 33 Robbins Rd. 923-9030 Eileen Hsu-Balzer 897 Belmont Rd. 484-8077 David W Downes 20 Alden Rd. 926-7674 Susan Kelley MacDonald 41 Longfellow Rd. 924-4700 Paul S. McGovern 35 Townly Rd. 489-0146 Stephen Messina 40 Longfellow Rd. 923-1892 Library Trustees Katherine H.Button 61 Wilmot St. 923-9356 Alexandra Avtgis Quinn 92 Bellevue Rd. 924-7362 William P.O'Grady 100 Evans St. 924-2306 Jeannie M.Caruso 35 Bromfield St. 924-1289 Gracemarie V. LeBlanc 76 Emerson St. 924-9322 Raya Stern 207 Lexington St. 926-3609 Watertown Appointed Officials Town Manager Michael J. Driscoll Council on Aging Caryl L.Fox Town Council President Richard E. Mastrangelo* Recreation Thomas Sullivan G.Jack Zollo"" Library Leone E.Cole Clyde L. Younger"** John A. Ryan Skating Edward O'Leary Assessors Joseph A. DiVito,Jr. Arena Town Treasurer/Collector Martin J.Walsh Public Works Department Gerald S. Mee,Jr. Town Auditor Thomas J.Tracy Police Department Chief John D.Jackson Personnel Mary E. Flanders Fire Department Chief Paul F. McCaffrey Town Clerk/Elections John E. Flynn Community Development Mark E.Boyle Data Processing Joseph Mahoney & Planning Town Attorney Kopelman and Paige,P.C. School Department Sally L. Dias, Ed.D., Veterans' Services Robert E.Erickson Superintendent Health Steven J.Ward •Died In Office ••Assumed Office Per Section 2.10(c)of Charter ***assumed Office Per Section 2-10(c)of Charter •"•Assumed Office Per Section 2.10(b)of Charter 4 Boards and Committees Board of Assessors Council on Aging Asa Pratt Fund Joseph A.DiVito,Jr.Chairman Harold J. Bejcek,Chairperson Donald MacDonald Joseph B.Darby,III Barbara Zenn Rediker Raya Stern Elizabeth Dromey Gertrude Broderick G.Jack Zollo Planning Board Jane Stodolnik Commission on Disabilities Joseph E Deignan,Jr.Chairman Dorothy Fleming Brian Charlson Patricia G Frank C. Mockler Secretary Betty s Gold ell Vice Chairperson Harold Craig John B. Hawes,Jr. Councillor Lucy Nargozian Marily pher Hursh n Petitto Devanev Karaline Kelley Munger Christopher George Donahue John DiPietrantonio Albert Gayzagian Watertown Housing Authority Traffic Commission Cindv Wentz E.Joyce Munger,Chairperson Police Chief John D.Jackson Chairman Alex Liazos Linda Lillev Fire Chief Paul E McCaffrey Secretary Laura Oftedahl Heather Whitney(State Appointee) John Airasian Diane Shepard John O'Leary Louis Anastasi Watertown Cultural Council Bernard Bradlev William Flecca Suzanne Berne Supt. Gerald A. Mee Dept. Public Works Barbara Epstein Board of Health John Bartley Theodore Bogosian Dr.Marvin L. Mitchell,Chairman Barbara D.Beck,Ph.D. Retirement Board Susannah Elliott Mary E.Colpoys,M.D. Robert E. Ford Chairman Eric Jolly Thomas J.Tracy, Secretary Dawn Evans Scaltreto Conservation Commission R. Wavne MacDonald Corey E O'Brien David F. McDonald,Chairman Thomas Thibault Board of Appeals Marylouise Pallotta McDermott Martin J.Walsh Anthony J. Cristello,Chairman Patricia A.Schiavoni Monica Anne Fairbain License Commission Anthony D. Furia George S. Graw Thomas M.Sherry, Chairman Elaine V. Grey Brian Gardner George B. Newman John J. McCarthy,Jr. Leo G.Martin Robert J.Whitney John W. Marshall Donna B. Doucette (Alternate) Ham J. Vaichos (Alternate) Department of Justice Block-Grant Election Commission Watertown Housing Partnership Advisory Board Laura Kurman Demos Zevitas Marianne Cameron Chief John D.Jackson,Watertown Police Robert NV. Kelly,Vice-Chairman Thomas Wade,Watertown Housing Thomas J.Stevens,Secretary Authority Sgt.Terry Langley,Watertown Police Elaine Paradis George Bogosian, Chairman Craig McKenna,Watertown Savings Bank Patricia Casev Cable TV Advisory Board Mark Boyle or Laura Weiner Edward E. O'Brien Chairman Larry Young Historical Commission John G. Flores R.Stewart Wooster Paul M. Brennan m Howard Hasha Victoria J.Carter Stephen Corbett Harold Bejcek,Council on Aging Roger Erickson Chester Jenkins David Leon Frederick S. Griffin,Jr. Randall Baron James Barwell Kenneth H. Rand Alfred Gasper Mark Messina Michelle L. Martin,Chair Gary Schwartz Natalie Zakarian Linda Tracy i Historic District Study Committee Watertown Recycling Advisory Group Building Committee Victoria Carter Sue Tamber, Dep.Supt. P.W.D. Mark E.Boyle,Director Communitv Ruth Shackelford Robert Giel,Vice President Development&Planning Department John Hawes Charles C. Bering Town Councillor Marilyn Petitto Devanev Elizabeth Fitzpayne Martin Lerman Sally L. Dias, Ed.D,Superintendent Jeffrey Brown of Schools Joan Galv a Bicycle Committee J g ' Joan L.Blaustein Anthony Dileso Thayer Morgan Peter Brooks Frank Galligan Watertown Arsenal Development Gurdon Buck Michael Hatfield Corporation Janet Jameson Thomas J. Tracy Stephen Messina John Airasian Deborah D. Peterson James 1. Bean Maria Saiz Jay R. Perkins Allison B.Carnduff David Grossman Judith M.Belliveau,Ex Officio,School DiVico Business Office Joseph J. Caren Eliezer James E. McDermott Joseph Porcaro,Ex Officio Roberta A. Miller Councillor Salvatore Ciccarelli Councillor Sandra Kasabian Hoffman Councillor John H. Portz 6 Town Council In Memorium and member of the School Committee. 1997 and would serve a term ending In April 1997 this community witnessed January 2000. the passing of its ceremonial political Highlights of 1997 . December, 1997 authorized the leasing leader,the Honorable Richard E. • Interviewed and confirmed the seven of the former American Legion property Mastrangelo,Town Council President and member board that comprise the at 215 Mt.Auburn Street to the Pvt. member of the School Committee.The Watertown Arsenal Development Charles J.Shutt Detachment Marine late honorable President committed his Corporation (WADC). This board, Corps League. time and many talents to improve the established by State statute,was quality of life and the delivery of compe- charged with facilitating the sale and Fiscal Stability tent town services to the neighborhoods reuse of the former United States Army Perhaps the most important accomplish of this community.It is to this memory Materials Technology Laboratory site. ment of the Town Council is one that is that this Annual Report is dedicated. shared with the Town Manager, his man- February, 1997 voted to establish the agement team,and the Town Auditor A Report of the People Watertown Police Athletic League,a which emphasizes maintaining fiscal sta of Watertown non-profit sports and activities program for Watertown youths. bility while providing essential services to The nine members of the Town Council of the communitv. the Citv known as the Town of Watertown • March, 1997 authorized a resolution is elected biennially,in odd numbered for the acquisition of the Commander's Acknowledgements years to serve on the legislative branch of Mansion at the Arsenal property from The members of the Town Council,both this municipality. Its principle function is the United States Department of the individually and collectively,respectively to set policy for the administration of the Interior National Park Service Program and gratefully acknowledge the assistance Town,its general government and pro- of Preservation and Utilization. of all those who have helped in the fulfill- grams,adopt an operating and capital .April, 1997,John H. Portz was certified ment of its mission to serve the people of spending plan based on recommenda- the City known as the Town of Watertown. tions from the Town Manager and serve by the Board of Election Commissioners g as District D Councilor,in accordance Beginning with the Town Manager,we as overseers of the various boards and with Article 2,Section 2-10 of of would like to thank him for his help and commissions of this municipality.During Vacancies,subsection 2-10 of the efforts. We also acknowledge with thanks 1997,this Town Council was actively Watertown Home Rule Charter. and pride the efforts of each and every engaged in a number of legislative Town employee in all town departments; endeavors to streamline governmental •June, 1997 appropriated sums suffi- along with those of the elected and operations,to address the Town's infra- cient to purchase a Department of appointed boards,commissions and com- structure,to provide adequate funding for Transportation (DOT) Type I mittees. Together,these men and women the delivery of town supplied services and Ambulance and a Senior Center Shuttle make up what we refer to as the Town of strives to continue to make Watertown a Bus;approved the transfer of funds for Watertown. community we call home. new safety surfaces under the play It is the quality of their service and dedi equipment at the following play Council Membership grounds:Casey, Filippello, Moxley and cation that determines whether Watertown The 1997 Council membership was as fol- Saltonstall. is a"good" place in which to live.The lows: President Richard E. Mastrangelo; Town Council publicly acknowledges their Vice President and District D Councilor, • September, 1997 voted acceptance of a willingness to serve and the work they do G.Jack Zollo (assumed the Presidency $100,000.00 Massachusetts Historical for the people of Watertown. Commission preservation project grant upon the death of President for the Commander's Mansion. Finally,to all residents and businesses of Mastrangelo);At-Large Councilors:Taso the City known as the Town of Watertown, Daskalakis,Marilyn Petitto Devaney, • November 4, 1997 voters participated the President and members of your Town Sandra Kasabian-Hoffman and Mark in the biennial Town Election at which Council wishes to thank you for the con- Sideris,District A,Salvatore Ciccarelli; time Clyde L. Younger was elected Town tinued opportunity to serve each of vou. District B, Paul Denning;District C, Council President. In accordance with Stephen Romanelli;and District D,John Article 2,Section 2-10 Filling of H. Portz.On November 14, 1997 the Vacancies,Subsection (C). Mc Younger Honorable Clyde L.Younger assumed the was sworn into office on November 14, office of President of the Town Council T O W N O F W A T E R T O W N 1 J Office of the Town Manager Michael J. Driscoll ay 1 • To The Honorable, The Town Council, Residents and Taxpayers of Watertown On behalf of the City, known as the Town of Watertown,its employees and the distinguished members of the Town Council, I am pleased to present to you the Town of Watertown's Annual Report for the calendar year beginning January 1, 1997 and ending December 31, 1997. 1 believe you will find this Annual Report both interesting and informative as it recapitulates the accomplishments and achievements of the Town for the stated time frame. Given the economic realities of the time,I am happy to report that the local economy is sound,the tax base is both expanding and diversifying and the Town's operating budget is balanced. During 1997,the Town,through a coordi- nated effort, undertook an aggressive collection policy to eradicate delinquent property/personal/excise taxes, water/sewer services charges and other betterment's on licensed and permitted concerns doing business in our community.With a strong fiscal management model in place—overall increased revenue collections and constant monitoring of the expenditure side of the balance sheet,the Town has a certified free cash position of$3,514,953 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1997. The overall goal of this administration is to provide the highest level of services to the residents of Watertown in an equitable and efficient manner,within the fiscal constraints facing the Town,while striving to provide long term financial stability.Throughout this report the reader will find detailed narratives discussing programs and initiatives that meet this stated goal.The section below highlights some of the particularly noteworthy achievements of 1997. • Closing a Chapter—Embarking on a New One.On January 6, 1997,then Governor William E Weld signed into law an "Act Authorizing the Establishment of the Watertown Arsenal Development Corporation (WADC)." This legislation allowed for the establishment of a seven person board charged with the oversight of the redevel- opment of the former Army Materials Technology Laboratory and was granted the authority to acquire the prop- erty from the Army and subsequently to convey for development. In February of 1997,the Reuse Plan Update was adopted by the Honorable Town Council and served as a blueprint to guide the redevelopment of the 37 acre 8 site.This plan stipulated an all commercial reuse of the facility as well as a seven (7) acre park area to be used for additional open space and recreation.This seven acre site is to be transferred directly to the Town at no cost under the Federal Historic Monument Program. Included in the seven acre site is the Commander's Mansion, built in 1865,was placed on the National Register of Historic Places,and the intended reuse of this facility is to serve as a museum,community cultural center and be made available for public and private functions. In November of 1997,the Town was awarded a$100,000 grant to help renovate the structure from the Massachusetts Preservation Projects Fund. During the period of March through September, 1997,the Honorable Town Council,the Administration and the WADC worked collectively and successfully in tandem through the maze of Federal and State permitting and regulatory processes to acquire the 30 acre site from the United States Army as well as preparing and endorsing the Economic Development Plan for the reuse of the site.A process that drew interest from ten local and nationally known developers. In December of 1997,the WADC voted to initiate negoti- ations with two of the developers with the goal of designating the preferred developer in early 1998.Also during this period the Secretary of Environmental Affairs approved the Arsenal Project under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act and the WADC received notification of a$1.5 million dollar grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration to assist with infrastructure improvements associated with the project. •Tapping Local Talent for the Commonwealth—In January of 1997, then Governor William F.Weld appointed Chief Paul F. McCaffrey to serve as a member of the Massachusetts Fire Service Commission which appoints and advises the State Fire Marshall.The Chief was nominated by the Metro Fire District, essentially the Municipalities of Greater Boston and will serve a three year term. • Cops and Kids—A bond that ties—In February of 1997,the Police Athletic League was conceived to establish a compact between the Town's youths and its Police Department.The league,under the guidance of the commu- nity officers is slated to begin an outdoor hockey league for this coming spring.The league will have two divi- sions a High School division and Middle School division.The league will be open to all. In September of 1997, the Police Department was awarded a$50,000 grant to participate in the"Cops and Kids"program.The mission of this program is to challenge local police departments to work with other stakeholders in the community to develop comprehensive,community-based programs that address youth substance abuse and violence.This pro- gram seeks to accomplish this mission by creating positive interaction between law enforcement and youth and improving educational and recreational opportunities for Middle School youth. • Our kids are out future—Regardless of the setting,whether it's in the classroom,the computer lab, on the baseball diamond,the gridiron,the soccer field or at the children's room at the Watertown Free Public Library this administration has provided the necessary resources for our young people to succeed and is committed to ensure a safe haven in which the youth of this community will learn,flourish and be competent to deal with the new millennium. loll,, ti Michael J. Driscoll, `•' Town Manager with j Aileen Driscoll at the r' 100th Anniversary of the Stanley Steamer Celebration held in June 1997 q • Our seniors possess both the wisdom of the past and the foresight of the future. Our seniors consis- tently contribute to the vibrancy of our community through their mentoring and participation on various Boards and Commissions. In June of 1997 a new Senior Shuttle was procured to facilitate the transportation needs of the seniors whether it be a trip to the grocery store of a medical/dental visit. • For the Common Health—In June, 1997 monies were appropriated for a new Town Ambulance,new safety surfaces under the play equipment at the following playgrounds:Casey,Filipello,Moxley and Saltonstall and in August 1997 the Victory Field Track was refurbished. •Watertown Employees go back to school—In February employees were provided a copy of the Town's Sexual Harassment Policy and in the spring were provided In-Service Education pursuant to Chapter 278 of the Acts of 1996.On June 26 and 27 employees participated in Disability Awareness workshops,affording employees a different perspective on how to interact with the public. What has been highlighted is only a small sampling of the breadth and width of the Town's activities during 1997. I urge you to peruse this Annual Report to gain greater insight to the myriad of activities of the various Town Departments. Before closing,I would be most remiss in not acknowledging the death of the Honorable Richard E.Mastrangelo, Town Council President/Member of the School Committee. President Mastrangelo,contributed freely of his time, his leadership skills and many talents to a community he loved and called home. 1 would like to take this opportunity to thank the residents of Watertown,its employees and the distinguished member of the Town Council for their dedication and commitment in keeping Watertown a fiscally sound commu- nity while still offering the level services on which Watertown residents have come to depend upon. Sincerely yours, Michael J. Driscoll Town Manager plaque commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Stanley Steamer 10 Board of Assessors In an effort to continue establishing fair and Cleo Poravas assisted taxpayers in a 10% increase over last year's exemption and equitable assessments,the Assessing completing their applications and review- amounts.The following is a listing of the Department in 1997 completed the rein- ing supporting documentation.As always, Fiscal Year 1998 exemption amounts: spection of all residential properties as the Assessors continue to encourage any Clause well as the Fiscal Year 1998 Triennial Watertown homeowner 70 years of age or 22 Veterans $337.50 Revaluation.Both projects were a true older, widows,veterans with a 10%or 22A Veterans $573.75 team effort.The Assessors contracted with more service connected disability, blind 22B Veterans $1,046.25 Patriot Properties,Inc. to conduct the persons or any other interested parties to 22C Veterans $1,282.50 onsite inspections as well as assist in the contact the Assessors Office regarding the 22D Veterans 337.50 production of the new Fiscal Year 1998 various exemptions available. In an effort 22E Veterans $810.00 assessments while utilizing inhouse staff to notify more taxpayer about the possible for most data entry and scheduling.The tax relief benefits available,the Assessors 17D Widows,Aged new assessments were calculated utilizing placed a notice on the Third Actual tax Persons, and all verified 1996 arms length property bills detailing the various exemptions Minor Children $236.25 transfers with the goal of generating available. 37A Blind $675A0 assessments that reflected market value as of the January 1, 1997 assessment date. M Fiscal Year 1998,the Town Council 41C Elderly $675.00 approved a 35%exemption increase Once again,the annual exemption work- above the statutory levels which represents shop was held in September.Joan Bertrand Fiscal Year 1997 1998 Tax Rates Residential $15.45 15.13 Commercial $24.97 26.75 Industrial $24.97 26.75 Personal Property $24.97 26.75 In Fiscal Year 1998, the Town Council voted to increase the classification shift to Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property from the traditional 150%to 160% which is reflected in the Fiscal Year 1998 tar rates. Residential Exemption $298.37 $308.11 Valuations: Residential $1,685,588,784 1,781,609,209 Commercial 257,728,366 267,780,751 Industrial 168,346,150 167,721,940 Personal Property 37,171,520 37,363,320 Exempt 200,165,000 206,650,400 Treasurer/Collector/Parking Clerk This Report on the Treasurer/Collector/ Additionally,the Town borrowed The delinquent Motor Vehicle Excise Parking Clerk Office covers Fiscal Year $241,924 from the Massachusetts Water collections, received from the Deputy 1997;i.e. I July 1996 to 30 June 1997. Resources Authority(MWRA) for an Collector,were $117,255. Schedules of Selected Financial Information, Infiltration/intlow sewer project.This Major Categories of Receipts and Debt was at 0%interest. Parking meter receipts were$208,747 Principal and Interest are shown. and parking fines were$397,167. Fifty in this period,bond principal payments seven percent of the total was for the In September 1996,for the first time since were$490,000 and long term interest actual tickets and forty three percent was 1988,the Town sold long term bonds.The payments were$308,281.These amounts for various late charges. In other words if issue of$4,768,000 sold at 4.6% interest. ($798,281) total the ninth payment on the parking tickets had been paid on time It covered the following categories: the Fiscal Year 1988 issue and the first the Town would have received $170,782 Municipal purposes $1,896,000 interest payment on the new issue.The less in revenue. Town Hall (1,237,000) loan principal balance was$7,499,924 Watertown continues to have a high rate Other buildings (375,000) as of 30 June 1997. of Real Estate Tax collections.The rate of Parks (284,000) Short term borrowings (Bond Anticipation collection,for FY97 Property Taxes,as of Notes) for the year were$19,900,000 for 30 June 1997 was 99.1% Departmental equipment $1,598,000 school projects, $795,000 for the com- Public Works (966,000) As of 30 June 1997 the following FY97 Fire Department (370,000) puter network project and$160,000 for taxes and user charges were unpaid: the arena refrigeration project.Short Sewer (192,000) Category Police (51,000) term interest paid was$520,066. Real Estate $309,903 Arena (19,000) Bond Anticipation Notes: Personal Property $14,253 Water $1,114,000 Outstanding 1 July 1996 $13,033,000 Motor Vehicle $211,628 New/renewed $20,855,000 Boat $1,156 Meters (1,040,000) Paid $13,193,000 Water $278,707 Equipment (74,000) Balance 30 June 1997 $20,695,000 Sewer $499,221 Arena refrigeration $160,000 FY97 PRINCIPAL AND INTEREST PAYMENTS$798,281 ANN BONDED PURPOSE BALANCE PRINCIPAL INTEREST BALANCE DATE AMOUNT 7/1/96 PAYMENT PAYMENT 6/30/97 Feb-88 3,175,000 New Fire Station 1,895,000 160,000 127,610 1,735,000 900.000 Renovation Fire Substations 180.000 90,000 11,340 90,000 1,475,000 School 295.000 147,500 18,585 147,500 675,000 Recreational 315,000 45,000 20,633 270,000 430,000 Library Addition 240,000 20,000 16,170 220,000 140,000 Data Processing Equipment 27,500 14,500 1,827 13,000 135,000 Police Dispatch Equipment 27,500 13,000 1,638 14.500 Oct-96 1,896,000 Municipal Purposes 43,776 1,896,000 1,598,000 Departmental Equipment 37,299 1,598,000 160,000 Arena Refrigeration 3,680 160,000 1.114,000 Water 25,723 1,114,000 Jun-97 241,924 Sewer(MWRA) 241,924 TOTALS 2.980.000 490.000 308.281 7,499,924 RECAP BY FUNCTION SCHOOL 295,000 147,500 25,764 460,000 R E 2,075,000 250,000 147,566 2,195,000 POLICE 27,500 13,000 2,794 64,500 LIBRARY 240,000 20,000 16,170 220,000 WATER 25,723 1,114.000 SBAER 4,476 433.924 ARENA 4,118 180,000 PARKS 315.000 45,000 27,156 554,000 DPW 23,051 966.000 OTHER 27,500 14,500 31,463 1,312,500 TOTALS 2.980,000 490,000 308.281 7,499,924 11 SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION 1 July 1996-30 June 1997 DEBT BALANCE (7/1) $2,980,000 FUNDS Brought forward 11,649,433 Funds Received 73,729,753 Funds Paid Out (64,164,351) Carried forward 21,214,835 CASH MANAGEMENT Interest Income 715,736 Short Term (S/T) Interest Paid (520,066) Net 195,670 OTHERINTEREST Tax Title 92,786 Late Payments 150,182 TOTAL 242,968 Total Interest Income 958,704 Total S/T Interest Expense (520,066) Net Interest Income 438,638 TAX TITLES Brought forward 992,464 Takings 136,811 Subsequent Taxes 257,113 Redemptions (527,603) Abatements (30.805) Foreclosures (29,493) Carried forward $798.487 MAJOR CATEGORIES OF RECEIPTS Property/Excise taxes 37,973,864 Intergovernmental 13,014,586 Water/Sewer/Commercial Trash 7,983,200 Departmental 2,456,560 Interest earnings 715,736 Fines and forfeitures 645,347 Parking Fines 397,167 Penalty Interest & Costs 211,322 Parking Meters 208,747 Licenses and permits 183,094 13 Town Auditor During Fiscal Year 1997,the Town's The above mentioned surplus allowed The following pages are financial reports General Fund Actual Revenue and other the Town to receive a Positive Certified of the Town's General Fund as well as sources exceeded actual expenditures and Free Cash from the Massachusetts other funds summarizing the financial other uses.This resulted in an operating Department of Revenue in the amount of activity of the Town during Fiscal Years surplus for a fourth consecutive $3,514,953.This was an increase from 1996 and 1997. year.The fiscal year 1997,operating the previous Fiscal Year certified amount surplus within the General Fund of$3,000,985. was $2,091,618. The Fiscal Year 1997 annual audit was The Town's General Fund balance at the completed and presented to the Town beginning of Fiscal Year 1997 had a surplus Council during October 1997.The Fiscal in the amount of$4,353,506.This begin- Year 1997 independent audit was com- ning surplus coupled with the Fiscal Year pleted within four months of the close of 1997 operating surplus of$2,091,618 the fiscal year.This achievement is the resulted in the Town's General Fund result of hard work and cooperation of balance being$6,445,124 at the end of many town departments. Fiscal Year 1997. 14 TOWN OF WATERTOWN GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 1997 DEBT PURCHASE OTHER SERVICE& PERSONAL OF CHARGES& CAPITAL TOTAL DEPARTMENT SERVICES SERVICES SUPPLIES EXPENSES OUTLAY EXPENDITURES TOWN COUNCIL $ 42,785 $ 1,975 $ 1,482 $ 12,222 $ 58,464 TOWN MANAGER $ 138,249 $ 27,271 $ 2,131 $ 4,598 $ 172,249 TOWN AUDITOR $ 164.015 $ 25,649 $ 2,442 $ 262 $ 192,368 PURCHASING AGENT $ 58,002 $ 81,751 $ 13,861 $ 274 $ 153,888 ASSESSORS $ 138,663 $ 118,705 $ 6,321 $ 4,114 $ 267,803 TREASURER $ 181,815 $ 47,037 $ 21,535 $ 1,613 $ 252,000 TOWN ATTORNEY $ 176,623 $ 176,623 PERSONNEL $ 160,449 $ 20,000 $ 1,422 $ 9,056 $ 190,927 DATA PROCESSING $ 48,498 $ 78,658 $ 11,539 $ 14,434 $ 153,129 TOWN CLERK $ 126,550 $ 2,034 $ 1,526 $ 150 $ 130,260 ELECTIONS $ 44,296 $ 3,419 $ 2,927 $ 50 $ 22,784 $ 73,476 COMM.DEVELOPMENT&PLANNING $ 380,590 $ 13,332 $ 5,237 $ 2,857 $ 402,016 TOWN HALL MAINTENANCE $ 28,137 $ 123,926 $ 7,919 $ 159,982 BUILDING INSURANCE $ 140,728 $ 140,728 POLICE $ 3,800,658 $ 111,008 $ 32,109 $ 36,077 $ 121,593 $ 4,101,445 FIRE $ 4,081,348 $ 104,700 $ 42,200 $ 2,390 $ 117,520 $ 4,348,158 CIVIL DEFENSE $ 4,442 $ 156 $ 814 $ 5,412 DPW-FORESTRY $ 63,714 $ 37,683 $ 2,246 $ 103,643 DPW-ADMINISTRATION $ 178,952 $ 18,947 $ 7,010 $ 50 $ 204,959 DPW-HIGHWAY CONSTR./MAINT. $ 279,644 $ 98,962 $ 19,420 $ 398,026 DPW-SNOW/ICE CONTROL $ 108,427 $ 186,505 $ 221,920 $ 10,000 $ 38,826 $ 565,678 DPW-STREET LIGHTING $ 410,443 $ 410,443 DPW-WASTE COLLECTIONIDISPOSAL $ 8,372 $ 2,941,302 $ 2,949,674 DPW-SEWER $ 200,301 $ 177,666 $ 26,734 $ 82,060 $ 486,761 DPW-WATER $ 440,921 $ 107,407 $ 115,503 $ 311,913 $ 975,744 DPW-CEMETERY $ 74,861 $ 95,234 $ 5,856 $ 175,951 DPW-OTHER $ 315,159 $ 107,594 $ 183,262 $ 1,928 $ 22,662 $ 630,605 HEALTH $ 166,255 $ 43,208 $ 2,418 $ 2,384 $ 214,265 COUNCIL ON AGING $ 90,026 $ 26,571 $ 2,526 $ 12,686 $ 131,809 VETERANS'SERVICES $ 11,433 $ 49 $ 55 $ 33,239 $ 1,000 $ 45,776 LIBRARY $ 880,163 $ 101,588 $ 197,849 $ 9,580 $ 3,200 $ 1,192,380 RECREATION $ 135,810 $ 3,150 $ 21.000 $ 3,298 $ 163,258 DPW-PARKS $ 143.637 $ 166.034 $ 33,003 $ 342,674 RETIREMENT OF DEBT PRINCIPAL $ 490.000 $ 490,000 INTEREST LONG TERM DEBT $ 308,279 $ 308,279 INTEREST SHORT TERM DEBT $ 596,521 $ 596,521 CONTRIBUTORY RETIREMENT $ 4,916,657 $ 4,916,657 NON-CONTRIBUTORY RETIREMENT $ 245,777 $ 245,777 WORKER'S COMPENSATION $ 149,977 $ 149,977 UNEMPLOYMENT $ 9,426 $ 9,426 HEALTH INSURANCE $ 3,651.803 $ 3,651,803 LIFE INSURANCE $ 45,662 $ 45,662 MEDICARE TAX $ 161,910 $ 161,910 COURT JUDGEMENTS $ 54,002 $ 54,002 PARKING LOTS $ 70,810 $ 44,448 $ 7,196 $ 122,454 JOHN A.RYAN SKATING RINK $ 134,323 $ 102,436 $ 14,507 $ 300 $ 7,403 $ 258,969 MISCELLANEOUS $ 18,288 $ 18,288 EDUCATION $ 14,357,391 $ 3,194,150 $ 1,212,270 $ 98,141 $ 18,861,952 MWRA ASSESSMENT $ 4,713,749 $ 4,713,749 STATE ASSESSMENTS $ 2,675,120 $ 2,675,120 TOTALS $ 36,239,908 $ 8,817,909 $ 2,219,044 $ 7,836,064 $ 2.138,195 $ 57,251,120 15 TOWN OF WATERTOWN BALANCE SHEET FOR THE GENERAL FUND FISCAL FISCAL AS OF JUNE 30 YEAR YEAR 1996 % 1997 % ASSETS CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS $6.368,875 68.33% $9,268,639 77.98% RECEIVABLES: PROPERTY TAXES AND EXCISES $2,017,028 21.64% $1,675,541 14.10% CHARGES FOR SERVICES $935,065 10.03% $942,224 7.93% TOTAL ASSETS $9,320,968 100.00% $11,886,404 100.00% LIABILITIES AND FUND EQUITY LIABILITIES: WARRANTS PAYABLE $747,513 15.05% $1,218,570 22.39% DEFERRED REVENUES $2,676,820 53.89% $2,404,532 44.19% ACCRUED EXPENDITURES $556,918 11.21% $433,361 7.96% PREPAID TAXES $98,184 1.98% $183,189 3.37% RESERVE FOR TAX REFUNDS $208,839 4.20% $496,000 9.12% OTHER LIABILITIES $679,188 13.67% $705,628 12.97% TOTAL LIABILITIES $4,967,462 100.00% $5,441,280 100.00% FUND EQUITY: RESERVED FOR EXPENDITURES $1,100,000 17.07% RESERVED FOR ENCUMBRANCES $1,018,339 23.39% $1,339,588 20.78% UNDESIGNATED $3,335,167 76.61% $4,005,536 62.15% TOTAL FUND EQUITY $4,353,506 100.00% $6,445,124 100.00% TOTAL LIABILITIES AND FUND EQUITY $9,320,968 $11,886,404 16 TOWN OF WATERTOWN BALANCE SHEET FOR SPECIAL REVENUE FUND FISCAL FISCAL AS OF JUNE 30 YEAR YEAR 1996 % 1997 % ASSETS CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS $967,274 95.21% $1,025,117 82.06% RECEIVABLES: DUE FROM OTHER GOVERNMENTS $48,645 4.79% $224,052 17.94% TOTAL ASSETS $1,015,919 100.00% $1,249,169 100.00% LIABILITIES AND FUND EQUITY LIABILITIES: WARRANTS PAYABLE $202,304 100.00% TOTAL LIABILITES $0 0.00% $202,304 100.00% FUND EQUITY: UNDESIGNATED $1,015,919 100.00% $1,046,865 100.00% TOTAL FUND EQUITY $1,015,919 100.00% $1,046,865 100.00% TOTAL LIABILITIES AND FUND EQUITY $1,015,919 $1,249,169 t- TOWN OF WATERTOWN BALANCE SHEET FOR THE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND FISCAL FISCAL AS OF JUNE 30 YEAR YEAR 1996 % 1997 % ASSETS CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS $3,570,340 96.01% $10,570.148 100.00% RECEIVABLES: DUE FROM OTHER GOVERNMENTS $148,400 3.99% $0 0.00% TOTAL ASSETS $3,718,740 100.00% $10,570,148 100.00% LIABILITIES AND FUND EQUITY LIABILITIES: ACCOUNTS PAYABLE $627,446 $0 0.00% ANTICIPATION NOTES PAYABLE $8,425,000 93.07% $12,640,000 100.00% TOTAL LIABILITES $9,052,446 93.07% $12,640,000 100.00% FUND EQUITY: UNDESIGNATED ($5,333,706) 100.00% ($2,069,852) 100.00% TOTAL FUND EQUITY ($5,333,706) 100.00% ($2,069,852) 100.00% TOTAL LIABILITIES AND FUND EQUITY $3,718,740 $10,570,148 18 TOWN OF WATERTOWN BALANCE SHEET FOR TRUST AND AGENCY FUNDS FISCAL FISCAL AS OF JUNE 30 YEAR YEAR 1996 % 1997 % ASSETS CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS $1,603,228 16.86% $1,698,685 14.57% STOCKS AND BONDS $117,768 1.24% $137,532 1.18% RECEIVABLES: CHARGES FOR SERVICES $48,138 0.51% $120,608 1.03% PROPERTY& RIGHTS HELD UNDER DEF. COMP. PLAN $7,737,317 81.39% $9,700,994 83.21% TOTAL ASSETS $9,506,451 100.00% $11,657,819 100.00% LIABILITIES AND FUND EQUITY LIABILITIES: WARRANTS PAYABLE $15,757 0.16% OTHER LIABILITIES $27,972 0.36% $58,453 0.60% OBLIGATIONS TO EMPLOYEES/DEF. COMP. PLAN $7,737,317 99.64% $9,700,994 99.24% TOTAL LIABILITES $7,765,289 100.00% $9,775,204 100.00% FUND EQUITY: RESERVED FOR ENDOWMENTS $706,503 40.58% $739,386 39.27% UNDESIGNATED $1,034.659 59.42% $1,143,229 60.73% TOTAL FUND EQUITY $1,741,162 100.00% $1,882,615 100.00% TOTAL LIABILITIES AND FUND EQUITY $9,506,451 $11,657,819 19 TOWN OF WATERTOWN COMBINED STATEMENT OF REVENUES, FISCAL FISCAL EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND YEAR YEAR BALANCE FOR THE GENERAL FUND 1996 % 1997 % REVENUES PROPERTY TAXES $34,077,562 60,21% $35,327,581 59.38% EXCISE TAXES $2,072,116 3.66% $2,541,699 4.27% INTEREST, PENALTIES AND OTHER TAXES $334,939 0.59% $430,286 0.72% CHARGES FOR SERVICES $7,292,395 12.89% $7,876,021 13.24% INTERGOVERNMENTAL $9,790,340 17.30% $10,047,323 16.89% LICENSES AND PERMITS $164,540 0.29% $183,094 0.31% DEPARTMENTAL $1,220,334 2.16% $1,320,427 2.22% FINES AND FORFEITURES $560,959 0.99% $645,347 1.08% INTEREST EARNINGS $847,625 1.50% $715,735 1.20% MISCELLANEOUS $232,931 0.41% $405,171 0.68% TOTAL REVENUES $56,593,741 100.00% $59,492,684 100.00% EXPENDITURES GENERAL GOVERNMENT $2,248,119 4.07% $2,505,639 4.38% PUBLIC SAFETY $7,959,158 14.41% $8,455,013 14.77% EDUCATION $17,923,637 32.46% $18,861,952 32.95% PUBLIC WORKS $6,742,063 12.21% $7,244,160 12.65% HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES $391,305 0.71% $391,850 0.68% RECREATION $397,619 0.72% $422,227 0.74% LIBRARIES $1,142,956 2.07% $1,192,380 2.08% PENSION $5,489,051 9.94% $5,162,434 9.02% DEBT SERVICE $1,329,379 2.41% $1,394,800 2.44% INTERGOVERNMENTAL $7,223,678 13.08% $7,388,869 12.91% INSURANCE, EMPLOYEE BENEFITS & MISC. $4,377,529 7.93% $4,231,796 7.39% TOTAL EXPENDITURES $55,224,494 100.00% $57,251,120 100.00% EXCESS(DEFICIENCY) OF REVENUES OVER EXPENDITURES $1,369,247 $2,241,564 OTHER FINANCING SOURCES(USES) OPERATING TRANSFERS IN $615,364 $294,630 OPERATING TRANSFERS (OUT) ($893,060) ($444,576) TOTAL OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) ($277,696) ($149,946) EXCESS (DEFICIENCY)OF REVENUES AND OTHER SOURCES OVER EXPENDITURES AND OTHER USES $1,091,551 $2,091,618 FUND BALANCE BEGINNING OF FISCAL YEAR $3,261,955 $4,353,506 FUND BALANCE END OF FISCAL YEAR $4,353,506 $6,445,124 20 TOWN OF WATERTOWN COMBINED STATEMENT OF REVENUES, FISCAL FISCAL EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND YEAR YEAR BALANCE FOR ALL SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS 1996 % 1997 % REVENUES CHARGES FOR SERVICES $ 1,885,061 60.67% $ 1,900,198 51.34% INTERGOVERNMENTAL $ 1,222,133 39.33% $ 1,800,717 48.66% TOTAL REVENUES $ 3,107,194 100.00% $ 3,700,915 100.00% EXPENDITURES EDUCATION $ 1,782,212 72.36% $ 2,637,147 76.72% MISCELLANEOUS $ 680,621 27.64% $ 800,414 23.28% TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ 2,462,833 100.00% $ 3,437,561 100.00% EXCESS (DEFICIENCY)OF REVENUES OVER EXPENDITURES $ 644,361 $ 263,354 OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) OPERATING TRANSFERS IN $ 37,222 OPERATING TRANSFERS (OUT) $ (511,042) $ (269,630) TOTAL OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) $ (511,042) $ (232,408) EXCESS (DEFICIENCY) OF REVENUES AND OTHER SOURCES OVER EXPENDITURES AND OTHER USES $ 133,319 $ 30,946 FUND BALANCE BEGINNING OF FISCAL YEAR $ 882,600 $ 1,015,919 FUND BALANCE END OF FISCAL YEAR $ 1,015,919 $ 1,046,865 zi TOWN OF WATERTOWN COMBINED STATEMENT OF REVENUES, FISCAL FISCAL EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND YEAR YEAR BALANCE FOR ALL CAPITAL PROJECT FUNDS 1996 % 1997 % tEVENUES INTERGOVERNMENTAL $148,400 100.00% $695,256 99.54% INTEREST EARNINGS $3,206 0.46% OTHER REVENUES TOTAL REVENUES $148,400 100.00% $698,462 100.00% :XPENDITURES CAPITAL OUTLAY $8,572,738 100.00% $6,298,886 100.00% MISCELLANEOUS TOTAL EXPENDITURES $8,572.738 100.00% $6,298,886 100.00% EXCESS(DEFICIENCY)OF REVENUES OVER EXPENDITURES ($8,424,338) ($5,600,424) OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) BOND ANTICIPATION NOTE PROCEEDS $4,608,000 $8,055,000 BOND PROCEEDS $0 $401,924 OPERATING TRANSFERS IN $813,738 $407,354 TOTAL OTHER FINANCING SOURCES(USES) $5,421,738 $8,864.278 EXCESS (DEFICIENCY)OF REVENUES AND OTHER SOURCES OVER EXPENDITURES AND OTHER USES ($3,002,600) $3,263,854 FUND BALANCE BEGINNING OF FISCAL YEAR ($2,331,106) ($5,333,706) PRIOR YEAR ADJUSTMENTS FUND BALANCE END OF FISCAL YEAR ($5,333,706) ($2,069,852) 22 TOWN OF WATERTOWN COMBINED STATEMENT OF REVENUES, FISCAL FISCAL EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND YEAR YEAR BALANCE FOR ALL EXPENDABLE TRUST FUNDS 1996 % 1997 % REVENUES INTEREST EARNINGS $43,769 31.04% $108,899 54.80% OTHER REVENUES $97,236 68.96% $89,805 45.20% TOTAL REVENUES $141,005 100.00% $198,704 100.00% EXPENDITURES MISCELLANEOUS $84,311 100,00% $65,134 100.00% TOTAL EXPENDITURES $84,311 100.00% $65,134 100.00% EXCESS(DEFICIENCY) OF REVENUES OVER EXPENDITURES $56,694 $133,570 OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) OPERATING TRANSFERS(OUT) ($25,000) ($25,000) TOTAL OTHER FINANCING SOURCES(USES) ($25,000) ($25,000) EXCESS(DEFICIENCY)OF REVENUES AND OTHER SOURCES OVER EXPENDITURES AND OTHER USES $31,694 $108,570 FUND BALANCE BEGINNING OF FISCAL YEAR $1,002,965 $1,034,659 PRIOR YEAR ADJUSTMENTS FUND BALANCE END OF FISCAL YEAR $1,034,659 $1,143,229 23 Personnel Department The Personnel Department is responsible selecting personnel.Mr. Robert Erickson nated during 1997.The first task the for a wide range of personnel-related was hired as the Town's Veteran Services committee undertook was to research activities. Included in the responsibilities Agent. Mr. Erickson has extensive expert- and analyze voluntary dental plans.The of the Personnel Department is the ence dealing with veterans'issues. IAC is expected to make a recommendation recruitment and selection of employees; Fourteen other positions were filled, regarding a voluntary dental plan to the negotiation and administration of collec- including four Dispatchers,three Patrol Town Manager in early 1998. five bargaining agreements;empoovee Officers,three Firefighters,Bus Driver, During 1997,the Safety Committee,which relations;monitoring of leave;administra- Principal Clerk,Motor Equipment is comprised of members from all unions, tion of Workers'Compensation and Operator,and Building/Vehicle coordinated a number of building visits Unemployment;Civil Service compliance; Maintenance Person.Additionally,the by a loss control and safety expert.The maintenance of confidential personnel Personnel Department assisted in the Safety Committee will use the results of records;training programs;compliance promotion of a Patrol Officer,a the study to analyze areas for workplace with federal and state laws and regulations; Firefighter, and two Principal Clerks. safety improvement. and other related functions. As in 1996,the Personnel Department A major focus of 1997 was collective participated in the hiring of twelve The Personnel Director serves as the bargaining for successor agreements with individuals for the DPW Summer Work American with Disabilities Act (ADA) the Town's five unions. Many meetings Program.The people hired worked on Coordinator for the Town and as the Town Manager's liaison to the Watertown were held and productive discussions a variety of projects for the Public Commission on Disability The Commission took place.The Library and the Works Department. worked diligently to coordinate a Disability Department Public Works (DPW) The Town's Workers'Compensation Sensitivity Workshop for employees which unions reachea d agreement in late 1997. Program is running smoothly. During was held in June.The workshop focused The Personnel Department would like to 1997 55 injuries were documented, 13 on how to interact with people who have thank DPW Superintendent, Gerald Mee of which resulted in lost time from work. a disability.The workshop was well- and library Director, Leone Cole,for their The Town is continuing to save money received by employees. Additionally,the assistance with negotiations. under the self-insured program it entered Commission arranged for the sessions to As a result of the recommendation of the into during 1996. be videotaped so that the training can be Town Manager and the funding by the shown to people who were not able to The Personnel Department coordinates Town Council,an Employee Assistance many training sessions throughout Town. attend and for future training. Program (EAP) was created. EAP is a A Team Building training was held for all The Personnel Department is looking service which enables employees to confi- DPW employees and a performance forward to 1998 as it continues to work dentially seek assistance for life problems appraisal workshop was held for Library towards standardizing many personnel and receive short-term assistance and/or Department Heads. In cooperation with referrals,if necessary. With the assistance p p practices,improving the administration re the Town Auditor,Thomas Tracy,and the Monica Visco,the School-to-Career of work-related injuries,and improving of Terry Donahue, Occupational Health Coordinator at the High School,a presen- service to employees,department heads Nurse,the Town received and reviewed tation for a group of students studying and citizens of Watertown. finance,was given by the Town Auditor, proposals from various vendors and Town Assessor and Treasurer/Collector. selected the EAP Network as the provider. Orientation sessions have been held for Massachusetts law requires all employers all employees to explain the benefit and to have a policy regarding Sexual the program. In early 1998, management Harassment in the workplace. During the and supervisory training sessions will be Spring of 1997,(lie Personnel Department held in order to provide more in-depth facilitated numerous training sessions for training to supervisors on how to deal all employees regarding Sexual Harassment with a troubled employee. in the Workplace. During 1997, the Personnel Department The Town's Insurance Advisory Committee was busy assisting many departments and (IAC),which is comprised of representa- the Town Manager in recruiting and lives from all Town Unions was rejuve- ?4 Town Clerk and Election The Town Clerk and Election Office serves • Completed the annual renewal process Board issues a myriad of licenses and as a direct link between the citizenry and for all applicable licenses,permits permits that range from amusement its Town government.The Town Clerk's and certificates while ensuring compli- devices, to gasoline,to liquor licenses. office, by statute,is responsible for the ance with Chapter XVII of the Town's All of the licenses issued are renewable issuance of vital statistics,maintenance of ordinance. yearly.The license Commission also Town records,the insurance of compli- . Ensured compliance with state guide- serves as a hearing officer to ensure ance with the Commonwealth's Open compliance with licensing conditions. Meeting Law and it also serves as a repos- itory for all rules, regulations, ordinances reports with the Alcohol Beverage The Licensing Board also works closely and bylaws promulgated by the Town Control Commission and the with five town departments,the Alcohol Department of Public Safety. Beverage Control Commission and the Council and other town departments. Conducted the 1997 Town General State Fire Marshall's Office in the • The Town Clerk's office was first estab- Election utilizing the Commonwealth's licensing process. lished in 1634,the first year records were Voter Registry Information System kept,and continues today to provide (VRIS) Licenses and Fees accurate documentation on events and Burial permits $1,140.00 happenings of the City known as the Town • Ensured access to all polling locations Hunting Licenses 2,133.00 of Watertown.The Town Clerk's office throughout the Town. Dog Licenses 3,859.00 provides a number of consumer services, e Continued participation in the Town Wildland Stamps-Resident such as the issuance of dog/cat licenses, Government Working Group on and Non-Resident 2,160.00 the sale of various Division of Fisheries Computer Technology. and Wildlife licenses,the recordation of Duplicate Licenses 6.00 Uniform Commercial Code statements, The Election Commission,directed under Archery Stamp 215.00 notary public services and the office also Massachusetts General Law,by the four Sporting Licenses 2,585.00 serves as a distribution center for various member board of election commission- Marriages 4,720.00 Town brochures and surveys.The Staff in ers, has a number of responsibilities Raffle 190.00 the office also serve as"unofficial mandated by Massachusetts General Laws ombudsman"to provide general informa- Chapter 50 through 56.The Commission, Fishing Licenses >,>Z2.50 tion regarding various municipal services as charged is to ensure fair and impartial Sporting Fees 662.80 to the public.The Town Clerk's office also elections in the Town of Watertown. Waterfowl Stamps 171.00 serves as a liaison between the Town and Responsibilities include: coordination of Cat licenses 1,710.00 the Federal and State governments. the annual census,generation of voting Licenses Commission-Alcohol, lists and jury lists,implementation of the Common Victullar etc. 101,005.00 During calendar year 1997, the office National Voter Registration Act through achieved the following: Miscellaneous Clerk/Election the establishment of the Central Voter fees 1,698.70 • Maintained the highest level of accuracy Registry, maintenance of the town's resi- in the recording and issuance of the dency database and compliance with the Resident Book 1,309.00 Vital Statistics of the Town of Watertown. Commonwealth's Campaign Finance Certified Copies 12,598.00 • Procured election signage for place- reporting procedures. Underground Storage Permits 3,685.00 ment in strategic locations throughout The Election Commission conducted the Miscellaneous Licensing the Town alerting the citizenry to the following voting exercises during 1997: Board fees 36,473.00 upcoming voting exercises. Date Total $181,843.00 • Conducted the 1997 Annual Town November 4, 1997 Recording Fees Census. Type of Election Mortgages $4,486.00 • Revamped the duties and responsibll Town's General Election- Business Certificates and ties as Burial Agent for the Town. The licensing Board promulgates rules withdrawals 9,435.00 and regulations specific to Watertown to Total $13,921.00 ensure the life,safety,and health of the citizenry and town visitors.The Licensing 25 Total Clerks Revenue Licenses Auto Dealer Class 1 9 Total Fees Collected $195,764.00 Seven Dav All Alcoholic Common Auto Dealer Class 11 15 Paid to the Commonwealth ($12,793.00) Victullar 16 Auto Dealer Class 111 2 Net Revenue to the Town $182,971.00 (Restaurants) All Alcoholic Package Good Store 7 Vital statistics Seven Day Wine/Malt Common Package Good Store Wine/Malt 7 Births 348 Victullar 3 24-Hours opening > Deaths recorded 333 (Restaurants) Marriage Intentions 317 Six Day All Alcoholic Sale of Food and Retail 7 Marriages recorded 317 Common Victullar 10 Entertainment 12 Affidavits of Correction of birth, Music Box 14 deaths and marriages recorded 9 (Restaurants) Kennel license 1 Six Day Wine/Malt Common Victullar 2 Automatic Amusement Device 17 Dog Licenses 369 Common Victullar license 89 Auto Repair 75 Cat Licenses 237 Clubs I 1 Letting out of Motor Vehicles 7 Data Proeessing Department The Data Processing Department supports also offered new features in word pro- printers, beginning with the Town Hall the Town Administration's computer cessing and spreadsheet analysis.The municipal building complex,then extending information systems and assists in the majority of equipment,however,consisted to the School Business Office and Public implementation of new technologies. of out-dated computers and printers, Works Department. Located in Town Hall, the Department which were slow in processing documents The Computer Group developed a Request operates an IBM AS/400 midrange corn- and prone to malfunctions. for Proposals for network cabling and puter that processes software such as The Town's technology committee,the electronics that would provide computer Financial Systems,Accounts Payables, Town Government Working Group on cabling for the Town Hall, Police and Fire Purchasing, Payroll, and Water/Sewer Computer Technology,developed a Departments,and a portion of the Library, Billing. The system uses terminals and computer technology plan to improve all connected by a fiber optic cable back- personal computers throughout Town employee productivity and the delivery of bone. The new cabling system allows Hall offices and two remote sites,the Town services. The plan comprises three high speed communications among the Department Public Works and the phases: I-a computer network project Town departments for sharing files, School Business Office. Other eal s- that would provide new computers and printing, e-mail,and Internet access. trative systems,such as Appraisal1,, Real communications infrastructure; I1-eval- Evaluation of the proposals occurred Estate Tax Billing,and Motor Vehicle uation of financial management software; throughout October and November,and a Billing are supported by outside vendors III -enhancement of public access and vendor was selected to begin the installa- or service bureaus. communications to municipal information tion in December. Computer Group During 1997, the Data Processing resources. In the spring of 1997,the members also began evaluating hardware Department installed a small number of Computer Group presented its report to and software companies to provide desktop new desktop and laptop computers,and the Town Council and funding for the computers and printers,server comput- printers. Some of the computers were project was approved. The first phase, ers,software,services,and support. configured with Windows 95 and the MS the Computer Network Project,was Office suite of products,along with divided into stages:the installation of data/fax modems. Besides a significant cabling and network electronics,and the increase in performance,the computers installation of networked computers and 26 Town Attorney During 1997, the Town Attorney provided documents transferring ownership of the As in the past,we have continued to rep- general legal services to the Town, Arsenal property from the U.S. govern- resent the Town in on-going matters of including the rendering of numerous ment to the Town of Watertown.This year litigation pending before the various legal opinions and the provision of legal we also provided advice to the Charter courts and administrative agencies of the advice and guidance to the Town Review Commission which was created by Commonwealth involving a variety of Manager,Town Council,department the Town Council to review and provide issues including negligence claims, heads,as well as to various Boards and recommendations for revisions to the alleged civil rights violations,alleged Committees.We continued to provide Town's Home Rule Charter. In relation unfair labor practices and various zoning assistance in the review and administration to on-going environmental issues,we disputes and enforcement actions.We of Town contracts,including on-going represented the Town before the U.S. have successfully defended the Town in a projects involving the construction of ren- Environmental Protection Agency and wrongful termination action before the ovations to School Department buildings. the Massachusetts Department of Civil Service Commission and a discrimi- In the area of local zoning,we have con- Environmental Protection concerning nation claim before the Massachusetts tinued to work closely with Town boards matters related to storm water manage- Commission Against Discrimination. and Planning Department staff to inter- ment and compliance with Clean Water We appreciate the continued confidence pret, defend and enforce the Town's Act standards. of the Town Manager and Town Council Zoning Ordinance. We also provided legal The Town Attorney continue to advise the in retaining our firm as the Town services to the newly formed Watertown Town Manager,Personnel Director and Attorney,and appreciate the consistent Arsenal Development Corporation, various department heads in the interpre- cooperation we receive from department including the review of its bylaws and of cation and application of collective bar- heads and Town staff in performing these the Arsenal site Economic Development gaining agreements with Town's five services.We look forward to continuing Plan which will govern the future develop- public employee unions,and to provide this working relationship in the future. ment of the site,and the provision of legal representation in grievance and discipli- services with respect to the conveyancing nary matters.We are also representing the School Department in the defense of an unfair labor practice charge before the Labor Relations Commission. 2- Purchasing Department The primary function of this Department The Town is also involved in a coopera- •Traffic Markings at a cost of$22,694. is to facilitate the purchasing process, tive purchasing consortium with • Traffic Signal Maintenance at a cost of using sound business judgment,by Town Arlington,Belmont,Brookline, $23,000. Departments in the procurement of all Cambridge, Newton,and Waltham, . All Aluminum Service Bodv at a cost of necessary goods and services.These pro- through which bids are solicited for sup- $14,950. curements must conform with all applica- plies ranging from fuel oil and gasoline to . Co-ordinated Radio Frequency System ble Town purchasing ordinances as well sand and public safety equipment,among for Water Meter Reading at a cost of as the Commonwealth's Uniform others.As a result of this larger purchas- $1,039,936.43 Procurement Act (Chapter 30B), Public ing pool,significantly lower unit price Works Projects (Chapter 30),and costs have been realized by the Town.A planning Department Building Projects (Chapter 149). sampling of the major contracts awarded in 1997: • Victory Field Track Resurfacing at a cost The Department continues to be active in of$34,899. the Collective Purchasing Act which was Department of Public enacted by the Legislature in 1972. Under John A. Ryan Skating the provisions of this statute,any subdivi- WOrli Arena sion of a governmental entity may procure • Backhoe Loader at a cost of$35,654. Locker Room Doors at a cost of goods and services from vendors awarded • Catch Basin Cleaning at a cost of • $5,342. contracts by the Executive Office for $55,104. Administration and Finance, Department . Permanent Street Patching at a cost of Fire Department of Procurement and General Services, $56,817. • Ambulance Vehicle at a cost of through the competitive bidding process. Litter Collector Machine at a cost of $99 g10 This avenue has allowed the Town to avail $59,985. itself of significant monetary savings • One Dump Spreader at a cost of The Department will continue to secure through a larger purchasing pool. $16,500. the best products at the lowest price. • Roadway Resurfacing$ related work at a cost of$605,703. Health Department The Health Department staff consists of inspections,swimming pools and collaborated with the Department of a frill time Director, two frill time whirlpool, indoor air(skating arena), Environmental Protection (DEP) and Sanitarian,a frill time Head Clerk,a tanning establishment inspections and other regional health departments con- full time Public Health Nurse, a nuisance complaints were attended to cerning the establishment of a permanent Tobacco Control Coordinator, a part routinely.Complaints consisted of trash, household hazardous waste facility in time Animal Control Officer, apart pollution, rodent, hazardous waste inci- Lexington, Massachusetts.Such a facility time Veterinarian and apart time dent reports,housing code violations, would allow residents the opportunity to Consulting Nurse. group housing facilities, motels, rooming dispose of their household hazardous The Board of Healtb consists of three houses and special assignments. waste(s) on a specific number of days members that are appointed for three Additional environmental programs throughout the year. years by the Town,llanager and con- include, but are not limited to, noise,air Requirements of Chapter X of the State firmed by the Town Council. and dust complaints,asbestos complaints, Sanitary Code mandates that each food response to and analysis of hazardous establishment be inspected a minimum of Environmental Health waste sites and spills,and coordinating twice a year. Currently the Board of Throughout the year mandated food ser- household hazardous waste days. Health issues over 200 Food Service vice establishment inspections,housing Throughout 1997 the department has Establishment Permits.The Health 28 Department is aware that in the United changes in order to provide effective Nursing Statistics States each year more than 80 million intervention and education.Flu and pneu- Childhood Lead Screening 1 illnesses are caused by foodborne infections monia immunization for the elderly and Tuberculosis Screening 316 and intoxications.The Health Department disabled are done annually.Each year Tuberculosis Referral 6 has continued to monitor restaurants and over 2,000 people are immunized. Tuberculosis Active Cases 2 other food service operations to minimize Communicable diseases are reported to Communicable Diseases 79 the outbreak of foodborne illnesses. State Department of Public Health as Regulation and education are keys to con- required by law. Immunization of contacts Blood Pressure Screening 1,020 trolling foodborne illnesses.Food operators Vaccine Distributed to Watertown and follow-up of patients is vital for disease must have a clear understanding of the control. Hepatitis B immunizations for Health Care Providers 20,120 sanitary code and what the Health school age children continues as a yearly Flu vaccine Clinic—doses Department is trying to accomplish. initiative.The Nurse obtains and distrib- administered 2,580 Significant time and energy is required to utes vaccines and information received Pneumonia Clinic—doses provide this kind of inspection.These from the State to over 20 Watertown administered 306 inspections help contribute toward a Health Care Providers. Mantoux testing Homebound visits for Flu& higher level of sanitation in food service for tuberculosis is done routinely. Lead Pneumonia shots 44 establishments.The second most impor- poisoning in children is an important Hepatitis Vaccine—Middle tant goal is providing education in sanita- health problem. In 1989 a new law was School Children 417 tion for the managers and food service enacted that requires lead screening of all Hepatitis Vaccine—Watertown operators.A great deal of this work is children who are attending day care or High School Children 148 done by the sanitarian at the time of their kindergarten.The Health Department has comprehensive inspections. In August of been screening all children whose par- Animal Control 1997 the Board of Health adopted a regu- ents have requested the test.The nurse The Town of Watertown and Town of Won entitled,"Rules and Regulations participates with ongoing community Belmont share a full time Animal Control Pertaining to Certification of Managers in public health needs assessments. (demo- Officer.The Animal Control Officer's duties Food Safety."This regulation requires graphic/medical/statistical analysis). include patrolling the towns on a rotating food handlers to acquire training from a Additionally,the nurse represents the flexible schedule and the enforcement of nationally recognized food service course. Health Department at the Massachusetts all pertinent laws,including Watertown's Chapter 11 of the Massachusetts State Department of Public Health seminars. Animal Control Ordinance. Enforcement Sanitary Code(housing code) requires The Health Department assists citizens includes issuing of citations (tickets) for sanitarians to respond to housing com- who need help resolving public health/ non-compliance.Additional responsibili- plaints within 24 hours.These inspections medical issues.The nurse refers citizens/ ties include responding to all emergency normally take place as a result of com- patients to appropriate agencies when dispatch calls,and the prosecution of vio- plaints by tenants. Final resolution of required.Additional duties include inves- lators in Districk Court.As needed,the these housing matters may require inter- Ligation, reporting and follow-up of sus- Animal Control Officer carries out isolation vention at the District Court level. pected elder and child abuse cases. in and quarantine responsibilities,educates Environmental Inspections 1997 the nurse convened an interdepart- the public regarding health and safety con- mental task force to address the needs of cerns involving animals and appears in Food Service Establishments 1134 citizens in crisis.The task force,with school classrooms and on cable television. Housing 315 members from the Police and Health Swimming Pool/Whirlpool 196 Department,Council on Aging,Food Health Promotion Miscellaneous Environmental 302 Pantry,Veterans Office,and Housing Disease Prevention Authority,collaborate to provide services The Health Department is involved with Nursing for Watertown citizens. local community based health initiatives Public Health Nursing is a constantly The Public Health Nurse also attends con- such as the Watertown Citizens for changing discipline. This role evolves Environmental Safety(WCES),the tinuing education seminars and conferences because of new laws, mandates, new vac- to maintain and update her professional Watertown Community Task Force cines,vaccine recommendations and pre- knowledge and skills. (WCTF),the Community Education viously unrecognized hazards.The nurse Council (CEC),Center for Community must constantly keep appraised of these Responsive Care (CCRC),and the Mass. Dept.of Public Health's Community Health Network Area(CHNA). 29 These initiatives are designed to help Public Education events 20 June $968.70 reduce incidence/prevalence of morbidity Number of attendees 996 July $195.00 and mortality in the community and to Number of individuals referred to August $770.00 help foster a cohesive sense of community. cessation programs (Approx.) 1,505 September $3,394.20 Additionally,the Health Department pro- Number individuals receiving October $6,755.67 vides,through the Mass.Tobacco Control cessation materials (Approx.) 1,175 November $6,400.00 Program (MTCP),programs that include, Number of series of cessation December $6,345.00 but are not limited to,smoking cessation, training programs 3 $40,541.07 referrals,regulatory initiatives (tobacco Number of individuals receiving retailer compliance surveys),and public training 15 Total Permits Issued education events aimed at reducing mor- bidity/mortality from tobacco use. 1n Mosquito Control for 1997 implementing these initiatives the Health The Board of Health cooperated with the Food Service 156 Department collaborated with local East Middlesex Mosquito Control Retail Food 65 providers,community and church groups, Commission in planning spraying and Caterers 8 schools,and the Police Department. In other mosquito control initiatives. One Day Catering 93 1997 the Health Department adopted "Youth Access to Tobacco Products Swimming Pools 17 Rabies Clinic Massage 20 Regulations."The department plans to The rabies clinics are held twice a year institutionalize the regulatory aspect of with local veterinarians participating.At Mobil Sery 7 this program utilizing existing staff. the 1997 clinic 124 dogs and cats were Funeral Directors 17 (e.g.inspectors) vaccinated at the Watertown clinic. Rabies Clinic 124 Tobacco Control Program Non Carb Water 1 Cessation programs 9 Total Money Received Bakery g Total participants 97 for 1997 Group Home 16 Compliance checks Rounds 3 January $8,035.00 Tanning 6 Total establishments checked 101 February $2,395.00 Motel 1 Rate of Illegal sales to youth 10.5% March $598.50 Tobacco 50 Number of Vending Machines April $1,755.00 Eliminated 12 May $2,944.00 Council on Aging Meeting the Challenge the Center were parties,lectures,exercise The Council on Aging now offers legal "/am thankful for such good services classes,bingo,cards and movies.Council assistance monthly through Boston in lVatertown, such as the Council on on Aging services that respondents to the College Legal Services.Lawyers and B.C. Aging/Senior Center"—a Watertown survey made use of included the shopping law students meet individually with the senior bus,medical transportation and income senior to get a sense of the legal problem tax assistance.Those respondents who or question and to determine what further In 1997,a random survey was sent to are not currently involved with services help may be needed. gage Watertown seniors' needs,interests they were h and participation in current programming glad to know that assistance and programs reported that th available This year,the C.O.A.established an ongo- to individuals fifty-five and older.The d t.One individual ing relationship with"Faith in Action,"an when know nee i C.O.A. (Council on Aging)/Senior Center responded-" are lucky i this town interfaith group of volunteer caregivers received two hundred and nine for all the help we are getting.Keep up who assist seniors through friendly visit- responses.The primary activities that the good work." ing and provide help with transportation, seniors indicated they participated in at shopping and errands. Frail seniors with 30 needs that cannot be met through other their work.Their participation at these seniors who needed to get to local super- services may be referred to this group. events has become an important part of markets. Our C.O.A. case worker worked A yoga class was added to the Senior Center the celebrations. with one hundred fifteen clients providing program schedule this year.The class is The Senior Center sponsored"55 Alive"a advocacy,information,and emotional taught by an instructor who has modified driver refresher course taught by a volun- support to elders and their families traditional voga poses to adapt to the teer from AARP as part of the Wednesday through home visits and phone contact. needs of senior participants. Including lecture series. Other topics offered at our During 1997 the Watertown Food Pantry, our Watch Our Weight class,the Center weekly lectures included financial plan- under the auspices of the C.O.A., provided now has five weekly exercise groups. ning,self-defense,assertiveness training, food for one thousand seven-hundred Shopping bus driver,John Reardon,was legal issues affecting seniors,Social forty-two Watertown households.Thirty- PP g Security and lectures on health issues two families (seniors and non seniors) hired as a permanent driver for the C.O.A. in January.Both the Tuesday and Friday including arthritis, insomnia,osteoporo- received emergency assistance for an schedules were adjusted to better accom- sis,smoking cessation,healthy diet,and acute fiscal problem through the Town's cardiac emergencies. Emergency Assistance Fund. modate seniors currently using the bus. Route changes are made as needed for Our monthly day trips included excursions The C.O.A.strives on a daily basis to live seniors who want to take advantage of to some different locales this year includ- up to its mission statement:"To provide this transportation service but do not live ing the John F. Kennedy library, Portland programs and operate a facility that keeps near an already designated bus stop. Harbor,a fall foliage tour along the the Town's senior population a vital part We participated in several integenera- Mohawk Trail and the Christmas"Bright of the community through a coordinated tional projects with the Watertown Public Lights"display in Springfield,MA. service strategy involving advocacy and Schools this year.Several seniors as well This year the Senior Center averaged Mellowtones choral group perform as C.O.A.staff read at the 1997 Hosmer fourteen hundred visits per at School Celebrity Read-A-Thou.This pro- month from seniors who gram encourages children to develop a came in to take part in an love for reading and books.The crafts activity,enjoy a cup of group sold their handmade items to chil- coffee and a magazine,or dren at the Hosmer School Winter Fair. to receive information The fair is a chance for school children to about needed services.The buy gifts for others at nominal prices. medical transportation pro- On September 16, 1997,several C.O.A. vided through vendor com- pany Busy Bee,averaged �s s Board and staff members took part in a seventy local,and r conference held at Harvard University two hundred fifty Boston titled,"America Reads."Watertown is trips per month.The Senior part of a federal program that encourages Shuttle gave eighty rides seniors to volunteer to help children learn to read.The C.O.A. helped recruit per week to Watertown seniors for this pilot project being held at Members of the Thursday morning Card Group the Cuniff School.The pen-pal program between seniors and third graders has - been reinstated between the C.O.A. and the Lowell School.Letters are exchanged , between seniors and students during the school year and the two groups meet at a ►•At+. �- party in the spring. High school students in the Tri-Hi-Y Volunteer Service Club continued their ,ram, i tradition of helping to serve meals at Senior Center parties.The students often participate in line dancing along with the seniors after they have finished One of the many volunteers who educational,social, health,recreational concerns."As one senior responding to our iar►icipate in the annual Senior and support programs.To serve the gen- recent survey commented-"It's good to eral population through the Food Pantry, know that there is help beyond home.We 1' the Emergency Assistance program and to never know what tomorrow may bring." provide information to families on senior Senior Center Art Ciass gathers for a group photo on the Back Af rA Pug �._ Recreation Department Organization Cove Committee on the planning and Kickers"program at the park Working The finlction of the Watertown construction of the new play area at the with the Watertown Police Department,a Recreation Department is to provide a Cunniff School.The same two departments Street Hockey Program for middle school Year round recreation program for the also worked on the improvements to the age youngsters was started at Arsenal Park. citizens of Watertown. It is the goal of safety surfaces at the O'Connell,Casey, By having our Adult Tennis Lessons and a this department, that all citizens have Moxley,Victory Field and Bemis Tot-lots. portion of our Summer Youth Basketball the opportunity to enjoy their leisure Working with the Department on Program at the Park,we exposed it to time with et joyable activities in a Community Development and D.P.W.,this hundreds of the town's citizens. sae environment. department was involved with planning f The recreation department expanded its and reconstruction of the Bartley Track at Middle School Age Friday Night Drop-In In The Director and Head Clerk are the g g p" Victory Field. The same three departments Gym Program to include the fall months only full-time employees of the depart- were also involved with the planning gto o along with winter months.A High ntent. Part-time and seasonal employees stages for Capital Project that include the g g g are hired to instruct and sitpervise the field houses at Victory Field and Moxley School Drop-In Gym Program was re- variotts programs of the department Playground.Two other future Capital established this past fall. during therear. Projects worked on were the playing fields at Filippello Park and tot-lot at 1997 Programming ogrammins � New Department Arsenal Park. Winter Initiatives and Expansions With the arrival of winter comes a wide During 1997 the department was involved This department attempted to make more range of Basketball Programs for the with planning for the new gymnasium at of the citizens aware of the town's most citizens of the town.There is"Biddv the Watertown Middle School.The valuable assets,Arsenal Park.Working with the Watertown Youth Soccer Basketball"at the Watertown Boys& Recreation Department and D.P.W. Girls'Club for 2 and 3 graders.The worked with the members of the Cunniff Director,we scheduled the"Little 32 department's Elementary School Program Canobie Lake Park, McCoy Stadium in also conducted during this time of year. runs at all 3 schools with practices and Pawtucket, R.I.,Water Country in The activities included social,field trips games during the week.The Middle Portsmouth, N.H., Ironwood Golf and and many sports. School phase of the program includes a Rose Wharf for a Boston Harbor Cruise. Sunday In-Town League and 6 Traveling Revenues and Oder Teams.The Traveling Teams are for both For the 29th year Camp Pequossette was Activities intricate part of our Summer Program boys and girls and play similar teams this past year. The camp runs 4 two-week Revenues form programs and other throughout the area.The donation of time sessions for youngsters 4 to 13.On average sources totaled$109,158.34.This and energy by many volunteers make the there were 180 camper at each session. money was used to fund manv of the Traveling Teams'possible.An Adult The daily activities include music,arts& department's programs. League is also run with games during the crafts,playground amen,sports,pin week at the East Junior Gym,and on p g g p g The department worked with many Sundays at the John J. Kelley Gym at pong, foosball and gym play.The young- groups and individuals to arrange for sters also went to the M.D.C. Pool to field use through the town during 1997. Watertown High School.Also at the Kelley swim to Arsenal Park for a cook-out and Gym,on Sunday Nights we have an over Over 1600 park permits were issued to 35 Basketball Program and a an s other varied field trips.There were camp Group such as Watertown Youth Soccer, Basketball program. sleepovers for the older children;one of Watertown Youth Baseball,Watertown which was held on the grounds of the Babe Ruth Baseball, Watertown Pop The Watertown Recreation Department O'Connell Playground. Family Nights and Warner Football,Watertown Senior Babe in conjunction with its counterpart in Talent Shows also added to summer Ruth Baseball,the Watertown School Belmont conducted various programs entertainment of many of the town's Department,Watertown Men's Softball for our Special Needs Population. These residents.The department owes a special League and Watertown Women's Softball programs included a Saturday Day Camp, thanks to the Watertown School League. Permits were also issued to many Friday Night Socials,Bowling,Softball, Committee for its support of the programs church groups,scout groups,civic orga- Aerobics,Basketball and Track. Our par- at Camp Pequosette. nizations, businesses and residents so ticipants also competed in many Special Summer Basketball Leagues were run for they could schedule activities on the Olympic Programs.The Special Needs children and adults at many of the town's town's parks. The department also issued Activities for the people of the town run courts.The youth portion of the program permits for the use of Arsenal Park,as throughout the year. included both instruction and games, many people held picnics and parties on Sprin while the adult leagues produced many the parks beautiful grounds. During the spring the department con- highly competitive contests.Hundreds of The Watertown Recreation Department ducted a wide range of programs for the people participated in the program as would like to thank all the Town citizens of Watertown. Spring Programs players and/or spectators. Departments for their assistance over the included"T"Ball for youngsters in grades Swimming Lessons were again conducted past year. Without their help and that of K and I and Ragball for children in at the M.D.C. Dealtn+Pool.Classes levels many of our fine citizens,we would not grades 2,3, 4 and 5. Baton Classes were ranged from toddlers through swimmers. be able to provide the town's people with held at the Phillips School for youngsters There were 3 two-week sessions of anything near the programs they deserve. ages 3 to 16.The M.John Moxley Track classes this past summer.Tennis Lessons The Recreation Director would also like Program was again held at Victory Field were given at the Mary Williams Tennis to thank his secretary,Anne Crimmins for children in grades 4 and 5.Adult Courts at Victory Field.A new tennis ball for her valued contributions to running Lessons for tennis and golf were also tossing machine added to the quality of the department. conducted this past year. the lessons this vear. Summer Fall The department conducted a Summer Flag-tag football,soccer, mini-basketball Playground Program at the Bemis,Casey, and field hockey programs were offered Moxley,Sullivan and Victory Field Parks. the elementary school students this past The activities on the playgrounds included fall. Drop-In Gym Programs were held at arts&crafts,baseball, basketball,tennis, Watertown High School on Monday, track&field,softball, ragball,whi®eball Tuesday and Friday evenings for the stu- and more. Playground Field Trips were dents in grades 6 through 12. Programs, taken to the M.D.C. Pool, Femvay Park, for our special needs population,were 33 Library IV Mission The Children's Department added new Browsing Room,new chairs for the Watertown Free Public Library fulfills services and collections in 1997 as well. Hunnewell Room,lounge seating for the The informational, cultural, and recre- Circulating and reference CD-ROM's were Young Adult Department,bookcases for ational needs of the community by pro- added to the collection,and a workstation the Children's Department,and media dis- viding access to a wide variety of for patrons to use the CD-ROM's was also play cases for the Children's Department. popular and reference materials, added.Musical CD's also became part of The library contracted with a new photo- resources,services,and programs that the regular collection.A survey was done copier company to provide copiers for extend their personal and intellectual to gauge interest in preschool services, public use.Two of the copiers at the Main development and that reflect the Town's resulting in more visits to preschools and Library have dollar bill changers and one cultural and ethnic diversity. The staffmore visits from preschool classes. has book minder,which makes copying works to create an environment which Several new initiatives were instituted in pages from books easier on the bindings welcomes and satisfies the needs of 1997 to make library use easier for of the books. users of all ages and abilities, and patrons. Renewal limits were increased works actively to attract new users to from one to rivo renewals per item, The Young Adult Department began a the library. talking book collection in 1997.The extending the amount of time that materi- librarians also represented the library New Initiatives als may be borrowed.The loan period for videos was also extended to seven days. (with the Adult Department) at the Career Graphical access to the Internet was the Fair at the High School in October where most popular new initiative of 1997.A Converting the musical CD's to a more they highlighted the library's career col- workstation in each building was set up browsable collection was also a part of lection and Internet job and college with a free dial-in account from Ultranet, making the library easier to use. Patrons searching.The Young Adult Supervisor a local Internet service provider. Patrons no longer have to flip through plastic participated in W-HAT (Watertown sign up for one-hour blocks of time for sleeves with the names of the CD's listed Healthy Acting Teens) which expanded this extensively utilized service. on each one—they can look at the actual the library's connections to other town CD on the shelf.The CD's are separated agencies and the high school. Another extremely popular new initiative by broad categories such as Jazz,Opera, was the opening of the Children's Rock etc. Completing a new long-range plan for the Department on two additional evenings library was a very important new initiative per week.Library services are now avail- New furniture also added to the ease of taken on by the Trustees and staff of the able in the Children's Department use of the library Purchases included two librarv.A committee of 21 people,which Monday,Tuesday,and Thursday evenings displays cases were purchased to display included Trustees,staff,a Town Councilor, until 9:00 pm. the musical CD's,racks for newspaper and members of the general public, display,a CD-ROM workstation for the examined the library's mission statement, Watertown Free Public library Children's Department roles,and goals in order to plan for the next five years.The committee reviewed the former long-range plan,library statis- tics,demographic information,and staff suggestions during the planning process. The resulting document deals with all of the challenges facing public libraries _ ` " > • which include quickly changing technolo- gies,the Internet,cultural diversity,out- v�j reach to non-users, preservation of historical materials,and a lack of space at the Main Librarv. The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and the Minuteman _ Library Network launched new initiatives t' which greatly expanded the resources that our library patrons have access to.The `-� Board of Library Commissioners abol- ished the regional library systems which Public Library Pat Farrell transferred had only public libraries as members and from a pant-time position in the Children's t l created new library systems which Department to Tatanva's position in 1 a include all types of libraries.The new Technical Services. _ regions(Watertown is a member of the Children's Department: Emily Stahler �t Metrowest region) provide supplementary was hired to fill the part-time clerical reference,delivery, continuing education, position vacated by Pat Farrell. and delivery services. The Minuteman library Network nearly doubled its data- Adult Department:Ann Butler, part- base holdings by accepting the time librarian, retired after 10 years of Cambridge,Brookline, Lexington,and service to the library.Jean Hlady, full-time Carla D. instructs a Bead Workshop Newton libraries as new members. librarian requested filling the part-time vacancy,and Alberta Donlan,part-time Trustees Generalist,filled the full-time vacancy cre- materials).Training for the public on the Three of the sLx-member Board of Library ated when Jean Hlady filled the part-time catalog and the Internet is held on an Trustees were re-elected in 1997— position. ongoing basis as well.Book discussion Jeannie Caruso,Gracemarie LeBlanc,and groups were continued at the Main Raya Stern. Officers were elected in young Adult Department: Supervisor library,and a new book discussion group Beth Kerrigan resigned to take apart-time formed at the North Branch. Summer January,with Jeannie Caruso re-elected position at the Andover Public Library. Chair,Gracemarie LeBlanc Vice-Chair, reading clubs were conducted by the Raya Stern Treasurer,and Katherine programs and Services Children's and Young Adult Departments. Button Secretary The library continues to provide many The East Branch Library celebrated its popular programs and services for chil- 70th anniversary in 1997 with much fan- Personnel dren,young adults,and adults. fare, including a new sign for the outside Each year a Staff Day is held for the pur- of the building. pose of staff development and training. The Adult,Young Adult,and Children's This vear,Carol Caro,Director of the Departments meet the needs of library Special programs held by Minuteman library Network spoke about users by prodding materials our patrons the Adult Department in the library's impending change to a want in manv different formats,including _ p TCP/IP network,Ellen Rauch,consultant books (both regular and large type), 1997: for the Eastern Region library System videos, talking books,CD's,cassettes, • Genealogy how-to workshop spoke on providing excellent library ser- magazines, microfilm CD-ROM's,and • Car Care with Boomer Kennedy,a vice,staff were given time to try the other electronic resources.The Depart- hands-on workshop library's electronic resources,and a full ments also answers reference questions • How to form an Investment Club staff meeting was held to brainstorm for in person and over the telephone and do . An evening with singer/songwriters ideas for the new long range plan. readers'advisory(suggestions of reading The staff also took advantage of a cus- Watertown Free Public library Curious Creatures Children's program tomer service workshop given by consul- - tant Patricia Griffin-Carty at two different times so that a majority of the staff could attend. Library employees are encouraged y t. to attend outside training opportunities and 38 people attended 26 workshops or seminars on subjects such as legal sources on the Internet,web sites for kids,and time management. .�- Personnel changes took place in several departments: "Y Technical Services:Tatanya Flannery completed her MIS degree and took a job as a reference librarian at the Weston - '"`' • Summer Reading Club (at Main,East, • Curious Creatures and North) • Drawing with Fred Workshop • Writing workshop • Reading Club Concert • Poetry reading • Halloween Celebration • Bead workshop (at Main and East) • Irene Smalls,Author/Illustrator a Special programs held by Project Literacy,as an integrated part of the Children's library services,continues to provide one- Department in 1997 on-one and small group tutoring to adult Li P learners in the Watertown area. Learners Main Library: are tutored in Adult Basic Education • Popeye Celebration (ABE) and English for Speakers of Other • Marionette workshop Languages (ESOL).At any given time • Curious Creatures there are approximately 100 volunteer • Inca Son concert tutors providing direct service to over 125 students. Watertown Free Public Library • Open House for expanded hours • Drawing with Fred workshop Let's Talk—two weekly drop-in conversa- • Holiday concert with the Craig Hlady . Reading Club concert/picnic lion groups—provide opportunities for Trio ESOL learners to practice speaking • "Christmas Carol"with Kenneth Brooke English.These groups have been success- and Miracles of the Middle Ages" (East • "Armenian Manuscripts,Monasteries, . Quilts in Time with Dory Codington ful in giving the adult learner a comfort- Branch) • Pretend Library Cards able atmosphere to sharpen their • East Branch 70th Anniversary North Branch: language skills. Celebration • Seed planting In January 1997,the library received a • Harriet Hosmer: Watertown Sculptor • Rock workshop $54,000 grant from the Massachusetts (East Branch) • Curious Creatures Department of Education,Adult and • Booktalk by Virginia Tashjian (East • Egg Decorating Community Learning Services.This is the Branch) • Mav Pole Celebration first of a multi-year grant for expanded Adult Basic Education services for the • Adult Crafts with Josephine Ovoian • Garden Day Watertown community through June, (North Branch) • Haunted Room 2000.A collaborative has been formed Special programs held by • Science Club with Project Literacy,Watertown the Young Adult • Reading Club concert/picnic Communitv Education,Watertown • Pretend Library Cards Housing Authority,Learning Associates, Department in 1997 East Branch: and the Friends of Project Literacy to •Watertown public schools English • Valentine Party administer this grant which provides free classes in addition to tutoringalready Department faculty book talk Judy Moffat, Illustrator ,. J Y provided by Project Literacy. Watertown Free Public Library Boomer Kennedy Car Care Program September '7! _+ ,_' +e,- Friends of Watertown Free Public Library The Friends of the Library continued their support of the Museum Pass program which enables Watertown residents to visit the area's major museums at no or nomi- nal charge.They expanded their word processing computers for the public pro- gram by purchasing another computer. The Friends also sponsored many library programs and hosted two author pro- grams—Linda Barnes and Nancy Thayer. 36 Donations Attendance at programs: The library was the fortunate recipient of Adult: 395 two donations from community groups in Young Adult: 181 Jl 1997.The Watertown Savings Bank made Children: \ donations to nine local civic organiza- Storytimes: lions,including the library which received $1,420.The Ancient Order of Hibernians Main Library 2603 142 sessions made a generous donation of nine books East Branch 348 30 sessions ,» , and a video to commemorate the Irish North Branch 881 91 sessions r potato famine of 1845 -1850. Toddler Drop-in: Main Library 1444 51 sessions " , Statistics North Branch 631 43 sessions k Flics: � t Items added to the collection: Kid's Watertown Free Public Library Books 9871 Main Library 571 34 sessions Sound Recordings 813 East Branch 67 6 sessions Special Programs: Craft Programs: Videos 835 Main Library 458 Main Library 575 41 sessions CD-ROM's 21> East Branch 140 21 sessions East Branch 280 TOTAL: 11,724 North Branch 404 30 sessions North Branch 322 Circulation: Class visits: Children's total: 10,296 Main Libran,—Adult 169,388 (at schools and at the library) 'Total attendance at all programs: Main library—Children's 90,575 Main Libran 459 21 sessions 10,872 East Branch—Adult 10,676 East Branch 767 49 sessions East Branch—Children's 13,469 North Branch 129 8 sessions North Branch 19,380 Summer Reading Club: TOTAL: 303,488 Main Library 106 1770 books Museum Passes read or listened to (9 passes) 1434 circulations East Branch 46 1821 books Reference questions answered in read or listened to person and via telephone: North Branch 65 1053 books read or listened to Watertown Free Public Library Adult and Young Adult: 19,859 Curious Creatures Children's Children's 6,965 "�` _ • TOTAL: 26,824 f- Watertown Free Public Library Boomer �+ Kennedy Car Care Program September -t:z 4j �'`%� f Veterans' Services "Caring for Those Who Cared for Us" 1997 saw the continued aging of the on a bar code and magnetic strip. Every Veterans organizations such as VFW, World War 11,Korean and Vietnam veteran. state in the United States has at least one American Legion,AMVETS,DAV and the Accordingly,there was an increase in VA hospital,therefore this provides pre- Marine Corps League are a vital link in any questions regarding social security, screening if any medical problems occur community not only to the past but also to medicare,medicaid,nursing homes and while traveling the future.We maintain close contact with similar senior citizen concerns.We Assistance with filling out property tax all of these groups both in providing worked closely with the SHINE(Serving abatement forms,VA forms,social security, information and assisting with issues. the Health Insurance Needs of the medicare medicaid, requests for records In 1997 we resumed the tradition of Elderly)representitive at the senior center (discharges and medical),increase in VA holding a Veterans'Day Observance. It is in assisting our elderly veterans and their disability has always been part of our important to honor those who served and families in navigating through the health credo"one stop shopping for veterans". particularly those combat veterans who insurance maze.The Senior Center is also very helpful in providing legal assistance This office is proud to have joined,as a fought in all wars where"uncommon for those over 65 years of age. charter member,the Health Task Force. valor was a common virtue". Memorial This group brings together a wide Day 1997 again proved to be a memo- In December this office,along with local rable weekend of observance for VFW Post#1105,held a Health Fair at the variety of social service departments both Watertown thanks to all the volunteers in town government and outside to discuss VFW post on Arsenal Street.The Veterans' cases such as housing issues,medical, and veterans groups who made it happen. Administration Medical Center from and the like. A particularly exciting new program in Jamaica Plain provided services such as our office has been the advent of a new blood pressure screening,eve tests,hear- We have started a policy of giving several ing tests,admission screening,women's seminars a year to address all facets of updated computer system and Internet ve health issues,nutrition assistance. It was federal and state veteran programs at the access. is are now able to worsenld wideiw well received by all who attended. senior center.Since both state and federal electronic mail and search world wide web programs address not only the veteran, pages for information and research about This office is proud of our continual but also the dependants, there is a need any veterans issue.The Department of effort to transport veterans to the local Veterans Affairs,VFW,American Legion, for information.The latest VA statistics Veterans Administration (VA) hospital to show that Watertown has close to 3,200 etc. all have excellent web sites which acquire an identification card.This newly veterans.With the addition of family provide extensive and pertinent information. updated card has a picture and extensive members this figure could easily grow to information about a veterans background thirty to forty percent of the population. Skaters cool off in August at hockey 38 John A. Ryan Skating Arena The John A.Ryan Municipal Skating Arena donation of the American closed for the twenty fourth season of flag that is now placed at `` MOW-" skating last April.On August 19, 1997 the the end of the arena. arena opened its doors for the start of the The sniff of the John A. A.RYAN V twenty fifth anniversary season.The arena , „ Ryan Skating Arena would is now home to five high school varsity like to thank the Fire hockey,as well as one middle school and Department, Rescue college programs.We are happy to see the Squad, Police local high school programs growing in Department,the entire numbers and interest. During a four month span,from November to February,the staff at Town Hall,and the Department of Public - arena will host approximately sixty games. Works for all their efforts Every March the arena is chosen by the in making this arena a Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic safe and enjoyable place. Association to be a host site for the High Arena entrance with new walk. School Boys Hockey Tournament Games. Public skating is going strong,averaging The John A. Ryan Skating Arena Stick & Puck over twelve thousand skaters per season. One Paramount Place Stick and Puck sessions are held Tuesday The Group Skating Lessons program has Watertown, MA 02172 thru Friday 10:00a.m.to 12noon, S6.00 given instruction to over 750 skaters per (617) 972-6468 per skater HELMETS ARE REQUIRED. season,and the morning Stick&Puck sessions sees over fourteen hundred Public Skating Hours These sessions are not usually held on Fall Hours and S skaters a year.The Watertown Youth ( Spring g Hours) holidays and during school vacation weeks. Each Session is limited to (30) Hockey Association continues to thrive, Tuesday 2:15-4:15p.m. thirtv skaters. with hockey programs for kids ages four Thursday 2:15-4:15p.m. and up,including a new all girls program. Friday Eves 8:00-9:30p.m. Skate rentals are available for all Hats off to the organizers and coaches of Sunday 3:00-4:30p.m. sessions in the Skate Shop at 923- Watertown Youth Hockey,their knowledge 3484. and dedication to the sport is outstanding. Winter Hours Starting Tuesday For further information or schedule The Senior A Men's Hockey League plays December 2nd, 1997 through Thursday updates call (617) 972-6468. each Sunday and Monday night,with eight March 5th, 1998 teams participating in some of the best Tuesday 1:00-3:OOp.m. senior hockey around. Thursday 2:15-4:15p.m. The arena's front received a new cement Friday Eves 8:00-9:30p.m. poured plaza and adjoining street,that Sunday 3:00-4:30p.m. now enables all to enter through the front Admission to all Public Skating Shift- change doors.The department of public works was the driving force behind this project. Sessions; Also the front lobby has newly installed Adults $3.00 iL display cases,for any local announce- Students/Seniors $2.00 ments,schedules and listings to be Children Under 5yrs $1.00 t' posted.During the summer months,the Group Skating Lessons 'ow arena installed a new bench dressing area,fenced in the stands,painted the Group Skating Lessons, (approximately N locker rooms,and installed insulating 20 min. in length),are held every Sunday and reflecting white curtains at both ends from 4:40 to 6:OOp.m..Cost is$6.00 per of the building.A special thanks must be skater.No Pre-Registration is required. given to Betty Spence for her generous 39 Department of Public Works Administration were felled by storms and accidents to Highway division personnel also staffed The office staff handles public relations 32.To assist in stump removal,the Town the Town's Recycling Center every week and information,permits,departmental engaged Royer Tree Service.Under a following the resignation of Seth Berman payroll,purchasing,invoicing,account- Mass. Relief grant from the Department of in february 1997.The newly formed side- ing,water and sewer billing,commercial Environmental Management to the walk crew began its mission and com- trash collection billing,cemetery records, Conservation Commission,Forestry divi- pleted the replacement of 363 blocks of funding issues surrounding all construc- sion staff worked with the Town Tree sidewalk. Using the Department's oven tion contracts and interface with state and Warden to plant 22 trees.John Palaima of equipment,Division personnel paved federal agencies.Administrative staff also the Division became a Certified Arborist. Highland Avenue. maintains communications with the Town's contractor providing residential Highway Additional Road Work trash removal,and handles public rela- The Highway division is responsible for Long term planning efforts of the lions,data collection and analysis, and maintenance and repair of approximately Department came to fruition with the start State reporting requirements regarding 72 miles of Town roadway and 144 miles of work on Galen Street and North trash collection and recycling. of Town sidewalk,maintenance and Beacon Street.Both projects were repair of paved areas abutting or con- designed with money from the Cemetery tained within Town facilities,review and Massachusetts Highway Department, The Cemetery division is responsible for issuance of relevant permits. which also provided engineering supervi- maintenance of over thirty acres of ceme- Work continued on a two combined sion for work funded by the federal gov- tery at three separate locations,sale of phases of comprehensive roadway con- ernment.The Department also arranged grave plots,preparation of graves, over- struction begun in April 1996. Locations for MWRA funding for the installation of a sight of funerals at Town cemeteries. receiving treatment under the contract new water main in conjunction with the included:Bay,Bennett Road,Brandley work on Galen Street. In FY97,the division handled 138 intern- Y� ments,buried 3 stillborn infants and an Road,Brimmer,Brookline,California The Town also applied for and received additional 18 remains from cremations. Park,Carver Road (East and West), approval for similar funding arrange- Thirty-six single graves were sold for Chauncey,Church,Cuba, Edwards Road, ments of intersection improvements at the immediate use as well as five double Forest,Grant Ave., Hancock,Hovey, intersections of Spring and Summer graves.There were no disinternments Katherine,Ladd,Laurel Longfellow Road, Streets,Arlington Street at Nichols Ave., or re-internments. Marshall,Palmer, Prospect, Richards, Coolidge Hill Road and Crawford Street Salisbury Road,Standish,Thurston Road, and Arsenal Street at School Street. Central Motors Warren and Winthrop Streets. Work began on Belmont Street with State The staff maintains and repairs the major- While work through an outside contractor Aid funding.The project is a joint venture ity Town vehicles.To maintain vehicle demands a great deal of monitoring, of the Town of Watertown and the Town quality and expand fleet size,the follow- negotiating and often reworking,the of Belmont. ing vehicles were purchased for use by Department was grateful for the funding the Public Works Department in FY1997: from the Mass. Highway Department and None of the three major roadway con the MADVAC litter collector,a small unit for the services of the contractor,Bardon struction projects were performed using for use in parking lots and in the business Trimount.Without the monev and man- local tax dollars. districts,a towable sewer rodder, 3 power,the much needed work could not inspector's vehicles,and two International have been accomplished. Parks crew cab 4700 series trucks. The Parks division handles all mainte- An eighty thousand dollar contract for nance needs at 88 acres of Town Forestry permanent street patching bid in late grounds, parks and recreational facilities The Forestry divisions handles pruning FY96 was executed and completed in configured in 12 baseball fields, four and maintenance of urban forest and FY97 by Ruggieri Contracting. soccer fields,one field hockey field and shrubbery on Town property. In FY97,the Staffing nevus included the hiring of Dave one football field.The division interfaces with Forestry division removed 116 trees and McDermott,Steve Pratt and Ed Baptista in all groups using facilities,and acc 58 stumps.The record breaking April the fall and the resignation of Mr. accordingly marks playing grounds for all blizzard helped push the number of trees McDermott in the spring. baseball,football, field hockey and soccer games played by high school,recreation dept. and youth groups. 40 Staff changes consisted of the transfer of In the less ordinary realm,the storm of Department staff also worked with the Douglas Carlson to the Sewer Division October 1996 was another record setting Town's contractor,Browning Ferris and the transfer of Frank Barrett into natural event receiving outstanding efforts Industries, to add corrugated cardboard Parks from the Highway Division. on the part of the entire department. and telephone books to the list of The division uses the services of an Following clean up operations,staff items accepted for curbside recycling outside contractor,Vanaria,to assist in assisted the Fire Chief in preparation of mid contract. parks maintenance, documentation for reimbursement from the Massachusetts Emergency The Department was again fortunate to Management Agency and initiated a new have the assistance of high school stu- set of studies on inflow and infiltration. dents this summer.Students worked in Division staff continued testing and the areas of parks, cemeteries an forestry inspections required by the In a seemingly short period of time,they accomplished a great deal of work, Environmental Protection Agency and notably in ball field maintenance,ceme- received assistance from Weston'and Sampson.The Department utilized the tery maintenance and the completion of work at the Moxlev Field Tot Lot. services of Advanced Pipe Inspection for cleaning and television inspections of Property and Buildings sewer and drain lines and of Hydraulic The staff of the Property and Buildings Engineering for inflow and infiltration division repairs and maintains Town facil testing,surveys and grant applications. ities,including HVAC and lighting systems, Staff changes included the hiring of Jack signage for elections and Town functions Jones and Allan Cashin in the fall of 1996. and the complex electrical wiring for Town wide fire alarm and emergency Snow and Ice response systems. The record setting April storm proved a Richard Bazarian was hired in late 1996 challenge that was mastered by DPW stag'. to fill the long vacant position of Sealer of Roads were passable far earlier than sur- Weights and Measures. rounding communities due to amazing efforts on the part of staff and contractors Sewer and Water alike.TWo additional sanders were fitted More closelv related than anv of the with tanks to distribute calcium chloride, other divisions the water and sewer the industry's favored pre-treatment which crews handle maintenance and repair of prevents snow and ice from bonding with approximately 80 miles of sewer mains pavement. and 80 miles of drains with accompany- The Department of Public Works ing service laterals,cleaning of all Town continues to be proud of its unpar- catch basins,plumbing for all Town facili- alleled reputation for superior snow ties,review of relevant permits. and ice control. In 1997,the staff repaired 5 sewer leaks, Waste Disposal fixed 403 sewer back ups, repaired 13 During FY97, trash and recycling services water main leaks and 57 water service were extended to condominiums within leaks, replaced 17 fire hydrants, repaired the Town making Watertown ahead of or serviced 195 fire hydrants,performed 3l Water service renewals, repaired 89 rnany municipalities in the Greater Boston area to do so. As noted above, Recycling catch basins and manholes, replaced I 1 catch basins or manholes. Bolstered by Center attendant Seth Berman resigned in Februa services of an outside contractor, 3200 ry and the Center Was staffed by catch basins were cleaned,double the personnel from the Highway Division amount in FY96. to ensure uninterrupted coverage for the citizens. Police Department Administrative Services United States and as far away as Australia, qualification with the issued 9 millimeter In 1997 the Police Department again England and Germany.The WPD Horne pistol. Night firearms training involving received a$20,000.00 grant from the Page which has won numerous awards tactical conditions an officer may Commonwealth of Massachusetts to fund for web page excellence,was authored by encounter was conducted at the Boston the D.A.R.E. program and to educate stu- Sgt.Thomas Rocca and is continually Police Department Range. Mandated dents of the dangers of tobacco.The updated and improved. training was also conducted with officers awarding of these funds enabled the In 1997 the Police Department also receiving certifications in cardiopulmonary Police Department to continue the received a second Block Grant from the resuscitation (CPR) and as Breathalyzer D.A.R.E. program at both the elementary Bureau of Justice Division of the U. S. operators.Several police officers attended and middle school level. Department of justice in the amount of recertification sessions which were con- In 1997 the D.A.R.E.Officer conducted $52,363.00.The Town appropriated ducted by various law enforcement spe- cialists, i.e.,the breathalyzer,child abuse, programs in conjunction with Horizons $5,812.00 in matching funds.These funds mobile and fixed data terminals,etc. for Youth,Outward Bound,and the are earmarked for a wide range of services Beaverbrook Multi Service Center Peer and equipment ranging from a motorcycle, Several Detectives received additional radios,computer hardware, to funding Leadership program. The D.A.R.E.pro- p g training in the field of domestic violence,narcotics,investigatory techniques,finger- gram is also featured monthly on the two Citizen's Police academies. printing and anti-gang violence. Watertown Cable channel. In 1997 Off. Anthony Fantasia was appointed D.A.R.E. Training Patrol Division Officer replacing Off'. Robert Eldredge During 1997 members of the Watertown The primary mission of the Patrol who was transferred to the Detective Unit. Police Department attended forty hour in- service training sessions presented by the Division is to serve Watertown's citizens In 1997 the Police Department received a and to protect their property through grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Criminal justice Training enforcement and highly visible deterrent Council.The in-service training program Massachusetts for$42,000.00 to continue activities.The men and women of the is comprised of updates on criminal and implementation of the Community Patrol Division represent the Department's Policing program. constitutional law,crisis intervention, first response to all emergencies and domestic abuse, motor vehicle law,and most calls for service. During 1997 the In 1997 the Police Department imple- community policing. Patrol Division responded to 23,078 calls mented segments the Bureau of justice In addition,patrol officers received spe- for service.These calls initiated investiga- Block Grant it received in 996.The cialized instruction in the following areas: tions and events that resulted in 837 department purchased fourr Motorola child abuse;sexual harassment;disability arrests.These statistics do not reflect Visor portable radios for the detective awareness;bomb threats;radar certifica- officer-initiated contacts made by patrol division.These radios are dramatically lion;identification;operating under the officers while on routine patrol. smaller in size than the ones they influence;cellular phone fraud;employee replaced enabling them to be more read- assistance; officer survival; firearm Heavy emphasis by the Patrol Division ilv concealed for undercover operations. instructor;CPR instructor;and E-911 was also placed in the enforcement of In addition,using funds from this grant, operator instructor. traffic regulations in keeping with the the department instituted the first goal of moving vehicular traffic safely and Watertown Police Department Home Page Specialized training was conducted in the effectively on the streets of Watertown. on the Internet's World Wide Web.This web Community Policing Division and Detective Personnel and equipment were assigned Division. Officers Fantasia and Maldonado to monitor and enforce traffic rules and page coincides with the departments com- attended the COBWEB Police Mountain orders when necessary in keeping with munity policing programs by providing 24 Bike Patrol School specifically designed this goal. Patrols were adjusted during the hour,365 days a year access to informa- for officers involved with Communitv course of the vear to address increased tion on domestic violence and a persons Policing Programs. Detectives received activity due to holidays, special events, rights.A survey is included which individ specialized training,attending seminars in and recreational events at parks and plav- uals may complete to express their views criminal procedure,internal investigations, grounds. Patrols were increased during on the Police Department. By visiting the rape investigations,domestic violence, peak shopping periods in the business web page citizens can send E-Mail to the and latent fingerprint discovery techniques. areas of Watertown.This was accom- department(www.watertownpd.org) or to the office of the Chief.We have to date Mandated firearms training was con- pushed by utilizing foot, motorized and responded to inquiries from all over the ducted with all officers maintaining their bicycle patrols. 42 __- — " - _T League with over one Crime Prevention Unit hundred youths partici- In 1997 the Crime Prevention Unit was pating and being coached restructured and was attached to the ` by sixteen officers volun- Patrol Division as part of the duties of the teering their time;the Community Policing and D.A.R.E. Officers. �. start of a"Cop's and Kids" These officers coordinate programs for +� . involving police program S P both the residential and business commu- - officers,students and nity The unit continues to target specific teachers in a structured geographic areas,based upon crime type after school program and frequency; that may be vulnerable to between the hours of criminal activity. three p.m. and six p.m. These programs,a major Crime prevention programs were: part of the community Operation Identification,where engraving Chief Jackson overseeing passing of policing effort,are being funded by state tools are made available to mark personal Badge #1 valuables. Home&Business Securitv (signifying senior Patrolman) from and federal grants. Surveys,where officers visit home and In 1997 the Police Department conducted business locations and advise owners on The Patrol Division has striven to provide efficient and effective service to the needs two Citizens Police Academies which give such matters as alarms,locks,and lighting. citizens an inside look at the and expectations of members of our com- participating Neighborhood Watch,where meetings of police department.The participants were concerned neighbors are encouraged to munity.The Patrol Division works in taught by police department members in watch the property of others and report concert with other divisions in the Police such areas as narcotics,traffic, criminal Department and agencies within the area anything suspicious.Crime prevention law,patrol procedures,and deadly force. and awareness programs were held for a accomplish this goal.Computer data is The program also included a ride along various civic groups as well as employees analyzed on a daily basis to assist re the with an officer in a police cruiser to give from the business community,through deployment of Police Officers to areas in ar tier ants an u close and personal need of a police presence. participants P P company health fairs and other Functions. view of police work. Plans are being Matters related to substance abuse,per- The entire police department including made to continue the program in 1998. sonal protection, and protection of their the Patrol Division is dedicated to com- property,both at home and in the work- munity policing.The department has been Personnel place,were all covered in these meetings. trained over the past two years by leaders Promotions The Crime Prevention Unit conducted in this philosophy,including Professor John J.York Sergeant individual classroom instruction at the George Kelling of Northeastern University 02/06/97 elementary school level throughout the and the Kennedy School of Government at vear in such areas as pedestrian safety, Harvard University Three officers are cur- Appointments rently assigned to this unit on a full time Raul Mendez Patrolman bicycle safety,school bus safety and sub- basis.Officer I1oyd Burke is assigned to 05/05/97 stance abuse awareness. the Upper Lexington Street area,Officer Justin Hanrahan Patrolman Traffic Division Michael Laura is assigned to Coolidge 07/17/97 During 1997 Officers assigned to the Square,and Officer Thomas Maldonado is Daniel Unsworth Patrolman Traffic Division performed traffic assigned to the Coolidge Avenue,Arsenal 07/17/97 enforcement duties throughout the Town, and Watertown Mall area. including enforcement of parking regula- One of the goals of community policing is Retirements tions in municipal parking areas as well to encourage interaction between the Sgt. Forbes 01/08/97 as on public streets, police department and the citizens of Off. DelRaso 03/13/97 In addition to regular assignments,the Watertown and one of the many ways by Off. Murphy 09/25/97 Traffic Division used Selective Enforcement which they accomplish this is through the Off. MacNeil 05/01/97 Teams.These teams focus on specific loca- use of bicycle patrol.The program has tions and types of violations that are known enjoyed great success in its first eighteen Off. Pettiglio 07/31/97 to be accident causative.These violations months of operation.Accomplishments Off.Mullahv 03/07/97 include excessive speed,operating under include:the start of a Police Athletic the influence of alcohol and other flagrant acts that contribute to accidents. 43 During 1997 the Watertown Police Depart- The Traffic Division also maintains an of these is a result of the educational ment applied for and was awarded Grant Accident Reconstruction Team which is efforts of this division directed towards for$1,500.00 from the Governor's Highway on call and available on a 24 hour basis these liquor establishments. Safety Bureau for enforcement in the area for serious accidents and/or fatal accidents. The Domestic Violence Unit was estab- of Pedestrian and Crosswalk Safety Detective Division lished in 1992 and investigates over 250 The School Crossing Program during this cases a year. In addition the unit provides period was supervised by Sergeant The Detective Division is comprised of the legal advice,support and assists other O'Connor and Officer Coffey of the Traffic Investigative Unit, licensing Unit,Juvenile agencies with the emphasis being placed Division.The School Crossing Guards Unit, Domestic Violence Unit, Drug Unit and Prosecutor's Unit on the safety of the victim and the prose- assigned to the program are responsible . cution of the abuser. for the safe passage of school children to Members of the division investigated The Watertown Police Department is a and from school throughout the Town. numerous crimes,initiated investigations, member of the Suburban Middlesex There are presently twenty-seven Crossing inspected licensed premises,and were County Task Force (SMCDTF) which was Guards at various intersections in close involved in programs for juveniles,the formed in 1996 and consists of officers proximity to the schools. elderly,the business community and the from eight area police departments.The The major enforcement statistics for 1997 general public department currently has one detective are as follows: The division was instrumental in the assigned to the task force. In 1997 the Oper Under Influence Arrests 50 detection and apprehension of two suspects SMCDTF conducted ninety-three (93) Motor Vehicle Violations: in a major multi-jurisdictional bank fraud investigations, successfully closing eighty- Moving citations 8,500 conspiracy case. Other police agencies three (83).These investigations resulted Parking Violations 25,598 involved included Boston, Revere and the in the arrest of one hundred and forty During 1997 the Watertown Police State Police.Those involved were arrested (140) persons and the following seizures. Department investigated 928 reportable and prosecuted.A major carjacking, rape, Drugs:Cocaine—887 grams, Marijuana- motor vehicle accidents. These accidents robbery and kidnapping case was solved 231 pounds, Heroin— 145 bags and 21 consisted of personal injury and/or prop- and an arrest warrant was issued for a grams of unbagged heroin,Valium/ erty damage. suspect who has since fled Massachusetts. Percocets— 1,576 pills,Steroids— 11,500 The division was also responsible for the vials,Blotter Acid—300 hits.Weapons: In 1997 the Traffic Division investigated discovery and successful prosecution of a Handguns—6,Assault rifles—2,Assets: reportable accidents as follows: major gaming operation being operated Vehicles— 14,Currency—$65,000. Motor vehicle vs Bicycle 15 out of a licensed liquor establishment. The Detective Division has continued to Motor vehicle vs Fixed Object 65 The gaming operation was estimated to be work closely with area departments, Motor Vehicle vs Moving MV 633 involved in $600,000 to $1,000,000 including Boston,to address the increase Motor Vehicle vs Parked MV 194 worth of transactions a year.The detectives in gang activity.A detective has been Motor Vehicle vs Pedestrian 21 were also responsible for the recovery of assigned to identify and monitor gang In 1997 there were no fatal automobile over$70,000 worth of stolen property. activity.The division also works with other accidents. In addition to their normal duties the local and Federal and agencies in the areas During this time period the Traffic division also conducted a series of drug of gaming,organized crime,and firearms. and alcohol related"sweeps"aimed at Division, in conjunction with the Throughout the year there was a contin- curtailing teenage involvement in such Watertown Traffic Commission,conducted ued effort to scrutinize reported crimes. activity.There were several stings aimed numerous surveys/investigations at loca- This strategy revealed that many crimes bons throughout the Town.The purpose at licensed liquor establishments to that were reported were unfounded or combat underage drinking. One of which of which were to analyze the require- was conducted on Watertown High School false and that many reported commercial ments for installation of traffic control larcenies were committed by employees. devices,signs,parking regulations and Graduation night and was funded by an other traffic related activities. Alcohol Beverage Control Commission The division,working together with our grant. Package stores,clubs and restau- elected officials,saw legislation passed to The Traffic Division also conducted addi- rants were monitored with anyone of allow the Watertown Police Department to tional surveys and investigations for other questionable age being asked for proper have concurrent jurisdiction on all lands Town agencies such as the Department of identification.Another underage sting was controlled by the Metropolitan District Public Works,Zoning Board of Appeals targeted towards all fourteen (14) retail Commission.This ensures that our or Planning Board. package stores in Watertown.The success department will be able to effectively respond to activities on the Town's new neglect investigations with the Massa- analysis and continuity of physical evidence bicycle path located along the Charles River. chusetts Department of Social Services. such as drugs,weapons and documents Substance Abuse Statistics Also in 1997 this unit had 19 presenta- for both the District Court proceedings tions and conferences with community and any Grand Jury actions or appeals to In 1997 as a result of the investigations of groups on juvenile issues. the Superior Court.At the conclusion of violations of the narcotic drug laws sixty- necessary court proceedings,the seven (67) arrests were made and the In addition to the above,the Juvenile Prosecutor's Unit coordinates the return below charges were filed: Officer serves on the Community Based of property to its owners,destruction of Conspiracy to violate C.S.Act 17 Justice Program of the Middlesex District drugs,disposition and/or destruction of Being present where heroin found 3 Attorney's Office,continues to represent firearms and other weapons. Unlawful poss C.S. 66 the Police Department as a member of Unlawful manufacture/dist C.S. 8 the Governor's Alliance Drug Task Force, Licensing Unit Unlawful poss needle/syringe 13 Massachusetts Juvenile Officers In order to encourage cooperation Association,and serves on the Council on between the licensees of the Town and the Trafficking in cocaine 3 Police Department,with an intent to Poss✓dist within school zone 7 Community Education.The department detect possible violations of the laws and TOTAL 117 with the assistance of many department members,again hosted the annual regulations governing licenses, members In addition to the above court actions of this unit conducted inspections of vari- numerous drug investigations resulted g Shamrock Road Race for area youths. ous licensed establishments during both in referrals to medical and/or psychiatric The Juvenile Officer,along with other day and nighttime hours.Any irregularities facilities. members of the detective division,also observed during these inspections were conducted classes at the Watertown investigated and appropriate action taken Juvenile Unit Citizen's Police Academy during 1997. whenever deemed necessary. During 1997,the Juvenile Unit had official contact with 208 juveniles (106 males R Prosecutors Unit The unit,in conjunction with the Cambridge 102 females) for various offenses. During 1997 the Prosecutor's Unit prose- Police Department,instituted a new pro- cuted over 2,500 criminal cases.Also, gram to curb underage purchasing and As a result of these contacts forty three during this time this office processed in consumption of alcohofic beverages.This (43) juveniles were arrested,twenty one excess of 1,500 motor vehicle related program, "Cops in Shops" has plain (21) juveniles were summoned to court, cases. Appeals of motor vehicle citations clothes police officers posing as store one hundred and forty four(144) juveniles resulted in court hearings on over 500 employees in retail package stores.This had police contact that did not result in traffic citations and a resultant 75 appeals program was successfully implemented court action.Fifty two (52) runaways of those hearings. over the Thanksgiving Dav holidav with all were located with the assistance of the fourteen (14) package stores participating. police department. In addition to prosecuting cases resulting from arrests,the Prosecutor's Unit is also During 1997 complaints filed with the The Watertown Police Department initi- responsible for obtaining warrants and Watertown licensing Board resulted in ated forty two (42) child abuse or child summons resulting from investigations by the following actions being taken: the the Detective Division. suspension of six (6) licenses for alcohol Police Athletic League street hockey establishments for a total of fifty-seven team. Coaches - The Prosecutors Unit processed all com- plaints made by civilians as (57) days.Several establishments had well as the above police their licenses modified or operating - -- initiated cases.Civilian hours restricted. In addition,several complaints arise from licensed establishments,including both actions taken by private alcohol and auto repair were issued i written warnings. tt citizens and private security services that may require a In addition,it was found necessary to sus- police report but not the � . .. P p pend four (4) firearms permits for vari- 1�1 physical arrest of a suspect. ous%riolations. _ This Unit is responsible for During 1997 officers from this depart- all officer and civifian ment conducted many investigations into scheduling as to witness illegal gaming activities. appearances,court dates, -45 License Applications 1997 Approved Denied Total Amusement Devices 73 0 73 Auctioneers Special 30 0 30 Yearly 1 0 1 Auto Dealers Class 1 10 0 10 Class 2 15 0 15 Class 3 2 0 2 Auto Leasing/Rental 7 0 7 Auto Repair Shops 76 0 76 Beano Licensees 8 0 8 Change of Manager 9 0 9 Change of Ownership 9 0 9 Common Victualers Licensees 90 0 90 Constables 5 0 5 Entertainment Permits 13 0 13 Firearms-Alien Registration 17 0 17 Carry 4 5 9 Dealers 0 0 0 Purchase-Permit to 0 0 0 ELD.Cards 82 7 87 Hackney Carriages 17 0 17 Drivers 71 5 76 Livery 9 0 9 Stands—Private 0 0 0 Public—Rotating 4 0 4 Junk Collector 0 0 0 Liquor—Clubs 11 0 11 One Day Permits 139 0 139 Package—All Liquor 8 0 8 Beer&Wine 7 0 7 Restaurant—All Liquor 27 0 27 Beer&Wine 5 0 5 Lodging House 0 0 0 Music Box Licensees 15 0 15 Parking Lot—Open Air 11 0 11 Peddlers 6 0 6 Private Functions 73 0 73 Public Dance Permits 0 0 0 Public Weighmaster 3 0 3 Raffle&Bazaar Permits 19 0 19 Retail Store (24 Hour) 5 0 5 Second Hand Dealers 1 0 1 Service Station (24 Hr) 0 0 0 Solicitors 14 0 14 Special Closing Hours 102 0 102 Special Police Officers 7 0 7 Sunday Licenses 21 0 21 Misc. Investigations (WLB) 51 0 51 TOTALS 1077 15 1092 46 Fire Department Emergency Incident Response: Motor vehicle accidents 182 and extinguish the fire. However,when The Watertown Fire Department responded Calls investigated,no conditions require the response of more to 3,731 reported fires and emergency service required 22 fire apparatus,the officer in charge at the calls for assistance during the year 1997. Downed electrical or utility wires 59 scene orders additional alarms to reinforce A summary of those incidents and estimated the initial fire attack. Reset building fire protection property losses as compiled by the Fire alarm system 12 Watertown firefighters responded to an Prevention Bureau is as follows: Rubbish or dumpster container fires 23 occupied apartment building fire at 89 Accidental alarms from building fire Total Number of Emergency Nichols Ave. on March 13, 1997,at 5:00 reporting systems 571 Responses for the Year 1997: 3,731 a.m. They encountered a heavy smoke Motor vehicle fires 32 Apparatus Responses for the Year condition throughout the building,and a Assistance with animal fire raging in the basement.The fire was control problems 17 Central Fire Station,99 Main Street: brought under control and extinguished, Investigate an oil leak or odor 7 Engine I 1,536 and the building was ventilated and all Ladder 1 900 occupants safely accounted for. Investigate a gas leak or odor 57 Brush fire 50 East Watertown Fire Station, Watertown firefighters responded to a Heating system malfunction or fire 60 564 Mount Auburn Street: building fire at the Arsenal Apartments, Engine 2 1,188 465 Arsenal St.,on Friday evening,April Smoke condition investigated 113 Ladder 2 733 4, 1997. Upon arrival,firefighters found a Electrical problem with appliance North Watertown Fire Station, serious fire condition in one of the 124 or building service 54 270 Orchard Street: occupied apartments in this seven-story Building or structure fire 22 Engine 3 I,086 apartment building for the elderly. Fires in stoves or cooking appliances 47 Fire Rescue (emergency Firefighters advanced hoselines,performed False calls reporting a fire medical ambulance) 1,935 P Fire Rescue, responses to Town of ventilation as necessary, searched for and or emergency 28 Belmont,as their backup ambulance70 removed an unconscious occupant from False calls reporting an explosive the apartment unit on fire,and commenced device 7 Note:some incidents require response the evacuation of the other elderlv occu- Assist with water problem in building 56 of more than one unit to the scene of pants, many with severe handicaps. Assist with being locked out of the emergency. Because of the severe nature of this fire automobile or dwelling 115 Three Multiple Alarm Fire in 1997 emergency, three alarms were ordered, Hazardous material spill or leak 20 The Fire Department responded to many initiating the response of firefighters from Emergency medical assistance call 1,901 structure and dwelling fires during the the Belmont,Boston, Cambridge,Newton and Waltham fire departments to augment year.The initial response to such calls is Miscellaneous calls for assistance 114 P firefighting efforts by Watertown firefighters, Mutual aid response to by two engine companies and an aerial g g g ladder company,under the command of as well as Watertown police officers,and other communities 149 paramedics and emergency medical tech- the deputy fire chief on duty.This P g Elevator emergencies,victims response is usually sufficient to confine nicians from the Armstrong Ambulance trapped inside elevator car 13 Company,all of whom assisted with the 1 _ _ _��—_ ,.. , •� removal of other threatened occupants. - 1 - Watertown firefighters responded to an �eon � attic fire in a two-family dwelling at 61 Mae Olney St. on July 14' 1997. The fire e *F f•/ It appeared to have started in an air condi- tioner unit,and extended to other com- a bus6ble contents in the attic.The building was vented, and firefighters extended a -� r hoseline to the attic and brought the fire under control with minimal damage to Wa►ertown's fire apparatus and ambulance vehicle shown at Watertown Fire the structure. Department Headquarters. From left in photo are Engine 1 and Ladder 1, assigned to the central fire station on Main Street, Engine 2 and Ladder 2, assigned to the East Watertown fire station on Mount Auburn Street, and Engine Mutual Aid Assistance from other Inspections conducted quarterly: Greater Boston Fire Departments Day care facilities 44 The Watertown Fire Department thanks the _ t ' Public and private schools 56 Belmont,Boston,Cambridge, Newton and Community residences 28 Waltham fire departments for providing C fire scene response and station coverage Nursing homes 12 during the several occasions in 1997 Handicapped workshops 20 when all Watertown firefighters and units Health programs 6 were engaged in fire suppression activities. Fire Department Provides Basic Mutual Aid Response to other Emergency Medical Assistance lieutenant Mario Orang;o, promoted Communities The Fire Department has provided basic on Feb. Other is show second p p from right. Others in photo, from The Fire Department responded to other emergency medical care and transportation left, are Town Clerk John Flynn, municipalities in the Greater Boston area for citizens in Watertown since 1975.The 66 times in 1997,under the established department has a total of 56 firefighters , Metrofire District mutual aid assistance who are certified emergency medical _ agreement.These responses were to technicians.The remaining firefighting ! r reported fires near the border between personnel are qualified to state standards y Watertown and an adjacent community,or as medical First Responders. to fire station coverage assignments All members of the department certify during major fires in other cities and annually in cardiopulmonary resuscitation towns,or on 13 occasions directly to the (CPR) skills.The department's engine fire to assist other departments with fire companies and ladder companies are also Daniel Tlardiff and James Mortensen suppression efforts. equipped to handle medical emergencies. were appointed Watertown firefight. ers on Aug. 14, 1992.Shown In photo, Estimated Property Losses in 1997: The closest available engine company is from left,are Town Manager Michael Structure fires $441,700 dispatched with the Fire Rescue to med- Driscoll,Firefighters Tardiff and ical assistance calls. Ladder companies Motor vehicle fires $42,000 defibrillator which are carried on the Fire are sent to the emergency scene when Other fires,all categories $99,000 the specialized rescue skills or equip- Rescue/ambulance,as well a their s the first- Total Estimated Dollar Loss: $493,600 their are needed. responding engine companies and aerial ladder companies.Watertown is one of Largest Losses in Property Almost all of these firefighters who are only a few communities in the Greater Arsenal Apartments, either Emergency Medical Technicians or Boston area to have these life-saving units 485 Arsenal St., residence $200,000 Medical First Responders are also trained available for early response to emergency 40 Summer St., residence $75,000 on the use of the semi-automatic cardiac medical incidents. 61 Olney St.,residence $50,000 Fees Collected A Smoke detector inspections $10,730 R' ftli Copies of departmental reports $189 ' Required Permits for product storage, or regulated activities $7,895G� � /' ' �t�c$ /• Annual fees for connection to master fire alarm boxes $14,000 •; ,�, p ,� Cargo tank-truck vehicle inspections $100 � 4 Required fire prevention inspections,conducted quarterly $550 Total Fees Collected $33,464 Inspections Conducted by Fire Apparatus Firefighter Joseph Toscana, appointed to the Watertown Fire Department in Oil burner inspections 63 September 1996, is shown at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy 55-day Recruit Firefighter Training Course. Toscana, who graduated on Sept. 19, 1997, Smoke detector inspections »' is shown in photo climb;ng the aerial ladder raised to the roof of the Adademy's I,, .. _, On-line medical direction for Watertown smoking materials as being a fire hazard ' t Advanced Life Support activity is provided as well as a well-recognized health hazard. i-: r- by the South Middlesex Emergency In 1996 the Fire Department applied for 1 ■r. Q Medical Services Consortium via Mount funds to continue this fire prevention Auburn Hospital. Patients are treated and initiative and was awarded a grant in i ,.. transported,usually in the Watertown Fire the amount of$8,500.The firefighters Department ambulance,within protocols serving as S.A.F.E. Education Specialists and guidelines provided by the emergency J medical region which provides oversight conducted their classroom visitations in � for ALS activity in the Greater Boston the spring of 1997. Watertown's Rescue unit operated area. On-going clinical supervision and In 1997 the Fire Department again by the Fire Department. Two fire- quality assurance is provided in conjunc- applied for funds to continue this fire fighters certified as emergency med- ical technicians staff this ambulance Lion with the South Middlesex and North prevention initiative, and was awarded a vehicle, which responds to over Suburban EMS consortiums. grant in the amount of$5,331. The fire- 1,500 medical incidents annually, fighters serving as S.A.F.E.Education When Advanced life Support services are Specialists will be conducting their class- provided to patients,billing for those ser- room visitations in the spring of 1998. A cooperative agreement with the vices is by the AIS provider,with a base P g Armstrong Ambulance Company to pro- fee reimbursement to the town for the In 1998 the Fire Department intends vide Advanced Life Support (ALS) service transport services rendered. to apply for funds to continue this fire in Watertown was instituted in November 1995.ALS services are provided by a non- During 1997 there were 1,433 ALS- prevention initiative. transport Advanced Life Support unit category medical incidents.Advanced Training and Equipment for staffed by two certified Paramedics. life support services were rendered to Confined Space Rescue Incidents: 585 patients. In 1997 the Fire Department requested The ALS system is a nvo-tier model,with funding in the amount of$4,850 for the Watertown Fire Department providing S.A.EE.Program: equipment to be utilized at confined emergency medical First Responder ser- In 1995 the Fire Department applied for space rescue incidents in Watertown.The vice,and its Basic Life Support (BIS) and received a grant in the amount of funding was recommended by the Town ambulance unit to the scene upon receipt $18,000 to initiate fire education efforts Manager and approved by the Town of a medical emergency call.Watertown for Watertown students.The Safety Council during the fiscal year 1998 public safety dispatchers also send the Awareness and Fire Education (S.A.F.E.) budget deliberations. The equipment was ALS unit if the nature and circumstances Program involves two members of the purchased and placed into service in the of the reported incident,such as a Fire Department who visit students in P fall of 1997. In addition,a 24 hour cardiac-related emergency,fall within their classrooms in order to call attention course,Training for Hazardous Materials certain guidelines. to the dangers of smoking and the use of Response: Confined Space Operations for First Responders was presented to all fire- fighting personnel in the Fire Department. A Standard Operating Procedure for response to Confined Space Rescue r" Incidents was issued by the Department in December 1997. Replacement Boat Purchased for Cold Water/Ice Rescue Calls: In 1997 the Fire Department requested finding in the amount of$12,000 for purchase of a water rescue boat,with an outboard engine and trailer. The request was made in order to replace a rowboat and trailer,in service since the mid- Acting Governor Paul Cellucci presents Certificates of Recognition to Firefighter 1950s,with a rescue craft of modern Thomas Thibout, Lieutenant Eugene Merullo and Lieutenant Michael Guerin for design.The funding was recommended by their rescue and revival of a victim at the Arsenal Apartments fire on Arsenal the Town Manager and approved by the Street in April 1997. The watertown firefighters were among several from throughout Massachusetts recognized for meritorious actions during ceremonies Town Council during the fiscal year 1998 budget deliberations.The equipment was then-Gov.William Weld.The seven-member Firefighter Joseph Toscano,who was purchased and placed into service in commission,which appoints the state fire appointed a Watertown firefighter in October 1997. In-service training was marshal,includes four fire chiefs from September 1996,graduated from the Mass. conducted for all firefighting personnel in throughout the Commonwealth, one of Firefighting Academy's 55-day Recruit towing of the trailer and launching of the whom represents the fife departments in Training Course on September 19, 1997. rescue boat,and safe small-boat handling Greater Boston. Retired Firefighter Leo Quinn died on July on the Charles River. In addition,two Firefighters Michael Sevene and Stephen 6, 1997.Firefighter Quinn was appointed inflatable boats were purchased,and will Thompson,who were appointed to the Watertown Fire Department in be kept deflated and carried on the two Watertown firefighters in December 1995, November 1951.He retired in September aerial ladder trucks.These two smaller graduated From the Mass.Firefighting 1985,after 34 years of service to the Fire boats can be quickly inflated with an air Academy's 55-day Recruit Training Course Department and the Town of Watertown. mask cylinder,and will be used at water on April 18, 1997. Retired Firefighter Joseph O'Reilly died and cold water/ice rescue incidents. Retired Firefighter William Glidden died on November 23, 1997.Firefighter New and Upgraded Amublance on January 13, 1997. He was appointed O'Reilly was appointed to the Watertown Vehicle Now in Service to the Fire Department in June 1946,and Fire Department in August 1961. He During 1997 the Fire Department retired in January 1980 after more than retired in February 1995 ,after almost requested funding in the amount of 33 years of service to the Fire Department 34 vears of service to the Fire Department $100,000 for purchase of a new Rescue and the Town of Watertown. and the Town of Watertown. ambulance to replace the existing vehicle. The funding was included in a replace- lieutenant Michael Guerin,Lieutenant Firefighter James Mortensen graduated meet vehicles Capital Improvement Eugene Merullo,and Firefighter Thomas from the Mass.Firefighting Academy's 55- Program by the Town Manager and Thibaut were commended by the Fire day Recruit Training Course on December Department for their rescue and revival of 1, 1997. approved by the Town Council.The new ambulance vehicle was delivered to the A unconscious victim at the Arsenal Town Manager Michael Driscoll made the Fire Department in August 1997. Apartments fire at 124 Arsenal a on following appointments to and promotions April 4, 1997.They were recipients of within the Fire Department in 1997: Following installation of communications P equipment, medical equipment and sup- Governor's Certificates of Merit presented Firefighter Mario Orangio was temporarily plies,driver training and familiarization at the annual Massachusetts Firefighters p� g promoted to lieutenant on February 20, for firefighters assigned,and being regis- of the Year Awards ceremony held at 1997,and permanently appointed to that tered by the Registry of Motor Vehicles Faneuil Hall on November 25, 1997. rank on June 5, 1997. and inspected by the office of Emergency Lieutenant Mark Dorion died unexpect- Medical Services (Mass.Department of edly on April 18, 1997. lieutenant Dorion Daniel Tardif and James Mortensen were Public Health),it was placed into service. was appointed to the Fire Department in appointed Watertown Firefighters on December 1977. He was promoted to the August 14, 1997. The new ambulance is a DOT (Department rank of lieutenant in January 1990. Thomas Walsh Jr.was appointed a of Transportation) heavy-duty Class 1 Including his prior service with the Watertown Firefighter on October 9, 1997. emergency medical transport vehicle. Watertown Dept. of Public Works,from It is an Emergency One,Inc. "Street August 1976,he had served the Town of Warrior"ambulance,manufactured on a Watertown for more than twenty years � Freightliner FL50 chassis.It replaced the 1996 ambulance,then in service,which Firefighter Louis Visco retired in July f was used as atrade-in. It is the latest,and 1997.Firefighter Visco was appointed in probably the finest,of many ambulance Mav 1968. He retired after serving the vehicles utilized by the Town of Fire Department and the Town of f- \1 atertown over a span of many years for \Vatertown for more than 29 years the care and transportation of its citizens Retired Firefighter John Hopkins died during a medical emergency. The Town on June 11, 1997. Firefighter Hopkins can expect a decade of useful service from was appointed to the Watertown Fire this current standard-of-care rescue unit. Department in November 1951. He Personnel Milestones, 1997 retired in July 1978 after more than 27 years of service to the Fire Department "Sparky"and Firefighter Duke Chief Paul McCaffrey was appointed to a Arone greet visitors at the Fire Dept. and the Town of Watertown. Annual open House on Oct. 19, 1997. three-year term on the Mass.Fire Service Mr. Arone, a firefighter since Commission on January 10, 1997,by January 1969,is president of the Watertown Firefighters' Local 1347, 50 Civil Defense Civil Defense Amateur Radio Civil Defense Activities The Watertown Auxiliary Police Department R,A.C.E.S. operators Civil Defense projects include a continu- has several active members who contributed Local civil defense and emergency manage- ing task of updating the Town's many hundreds of hours of service to the ment agencies rely on licensed amateur Comprehensive Emergency Management town of Watertown during 1997.The men radio operators to augment emergency Plan (CEM Plan),which is scheduled for have completed Criminal Justice Training communications during natural disasters. a complete revision during 1998. Council courses,cardiopulmonary resus- These"ham operators"donate their time Ongoing clerical assignments include citation courses and courses for First and use of their radio equipment to help annual information management relating Responders to medical emergencies. out when needed.Such operators are to SARA Title III chemical reporting Civil Defense is responsible as the lead designated as R.A.C.E.S. (Radio amateur requirements,support for the Local planning agency under the Superfund civil emergency services) operators. Emergency Planning Committee and required response plan annual review, Amendments and Reauthorization act For emergency management purposes, clerical support for yearly FEMA Civilian of 1986,also known as SARA Title III. Massachusetts is geographically divided Exercises,in which the Town participates, Local civil defense agencies prepare into three areas,and each area is further such as hurricane or winter storm drills. municipal emergency management plans divided into a number of communications to be used in the event of hazardous sectors.Watertown is in one of those sec- The Town of Watertown has been materials emergencies. tors,and emergency messages may be sent accepted into the FEMA State/Local via amateur radio back and forth to state Assistance Program,which provides a Civil Defense headquarters in Framingham. modest reimbursement to the Town to This radio link supplements telephone defray the clerical costs associated with and commercial traffic networks. emergency management matters. Community De velopment & Planning The Department of Community A summary report of the Department's • Representation to several agencies Development&Planning was created major accomplishments for the year including Metropolitan Area Planning tbrough a vote of the Town Council in 1997 is as follows. Council,MBTA Advisory Board,and the August, 1982. The Department provides Watertown Economic Development a formal relationship and coordination Planning and Community Corporation. between several boards, commissions Development Division • Coordination of real estate development and committees such as the Planning The Division serves several important activities,land-use planning,transporta- Board,Board ofAppeals,Historical and functions within the Department and the tion,housing and capital improvement Conservation Commissions,Housing Town,among them are the following: projects and policies; Partnership,Arsenal Reuse Committee, . Staff support to the Planning Board, the Facilities Inspection and Zoning • Administration of various community Enforcement Divisions,and the Housing Partnership,and the Arsenal development programs and grants such Planning and Community Development Reuse Committee and Watertown as the Small Cities,Home Improvement Office.Each entity is accorded profes- Arsenal Development Corporation. Loan Program,the federal HOME ero- sional and support services by Depart- • Staff support to the Open Space Task gram. ment eniplo),ees. The aim of integrating Force which completed the Open Space . Initiation and administration of eco- these related agencies is to improve and Recreation Plan update which will nomic development policies and proce- communication and coordination and be used to guide the protection and dures which will allow Watertown to to provide services more efficiently to enhancement of the Town's natural and remain competitive in retaining and the community. recreational resources. attracting investment to provide for rev- enue and employment growth. 51 During 1997,the Department continued to administer several grant programs and projects as follows: Grant Source Project Amount Infrastructure Improvements US-EDA Arsenal Reuse 1,500,000 Small Cities Block Grant State-EOCD Arsenal Reuse 22,000 Reuse Planning State-Land Bank Arsenal Reuse 47,000 Community Planning Assistance US-EDA Arsenal Reuse 262,500 HOME Program US-HUD Afford.Housing 455,000 Home Improvement Loan Program State-MHFA Housing Rehab. 100,000 Urban Forest Planning&Education State-DEM Tree Survey 10,000 Mass Preservation Projects Fund Mass.Histor.Com. Arsenal Mansion 100,000 TOTAL $2,486,500 Planning Board Bicycle Committee to add bicycle parking approval. renovation of the former St. The Planning Board reviewed applications provisions to the Zoning Ordinance.This Patrick's Church Elementary School,by for 18 variances and 25 special permits was done in an attempt to alleviate the School House Associates,for office space. in 1997. Major projects that came before growing traffic congestion and shortage of Major renovations to the Town owned the Planning Board this year included the parking felt on all of our streets.The War Memorial site at 215 Mt.Auburn preservation and conversion of the Planning Board held a public hearing on Street which was previously occupied by former St. Patrick's Elementary School on a proposed ordinance amendment in the American Legion but vacated in 1993. Pleasant Street to offices by Sasaki and December,which it then referred to the The Town entered into a lease agreement Associates,and the revitalization of the Town Council for adoption. with Pvt.Charles J.Shutt Detachment VFW Hall at 215 Mt.Auburn Street to a Marine Corps League who will complete Lastly, Karaline Munger was appointed to similar use by the Pvt.Charles J.Shutt the Planning Board to replace the unex- the renovations and will be their new Detachment Marine Corps League. Both home. Renovations of both buildings pired term of James Bean,who left the of these projects preserve and revitalize maintained their historical character. Planning Board for the Watertown Arsenal important historic landmark properties. Development Corporation.The Board was The Board has finished the Accessory The Board also approved 2 day care cen- ably chaired in 1997 by Joseph Deignan. Apartment program and efforts will now ters and sent to the Town Council for its approval the creation of an Assisted living Board of Appeals turn to the enforcement of illegal units. Overlay District.This district,which sets During 1997,the Board of Appeals At this time the Board of Appeals con- out guidelines and requirements for the received a total of fifty-eight (58) petitions sisted of.Anthony J.Cristello,Elaine V. development of Assisted Living facilities, for a range of matters heard by the Board Grey,Anthony D. Furia,John J. McCarthy, was placed on the map where the First in accordance with the provisions of Jr.,Full members;John W. Marshall and Baptist Church and Rectory now stand, at Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A, Francis N. Mastroianni,Alternate members; Mt.Auburn,Common and Marshall Streets. Section 14 and the Watertown Zoning Attorney Michael V. Barba;Nancy Scott, The Planning Board reviewed 24 applica- Ordinance.The petitions included:Twenty- Zoning Enforcement Officer;Colleen nine (29) applications for Special Andrade,Clerk.John W. Marshall became the the for accessory apartments.This was Permit/Special Permit Finding,Five (5) a full member in June,Alternate member final round in a 5 year process in applications for Amendment to Special Francis N.Mastroianni left the Board in which a total of 128 accessory apartments Permit,Twenty-two (22) applications June,Harry J.Vlachos was appointed as were approved.These formerly illegal seeking Variance relief,and Thirteen an alternate member in June. apartments are now both legal and safe for habitation,having been brought up to (13) Accessory Apartment applications. In September,Anthonv J.Cristello was Fees collected for those hearings from elected Chairman with John W. Marshall state building code standards as a result January 1,to December 31, 1997 of this process. elected as Clerk. totaled$11,884.50. During the past year,the Planning Board Zoning Enforcement Officer There were several significant cases in reviewed a proposal from the Watertown 1997 which involved the Board's Complaints/Inquiries 350 52 Review of Building Applications 573 Review of Occupancy Applications 75 (2) Garages (6) Garages Wire Inspector 38 Review of Sign Applications 50 (5) Buildings Zoning 9 Board of Appeal Meetings 11 Inspector of Plumbing and Gas Beyond the execution of the above report, Waltham District Court/Superior preparing and issuing plumbing and gas Court Appearances 4 Plumbing fitting permits,and related keeping of Number of Plumbing Permits Issued 422 records,the usual daily office hours were Land Court/Superior Court Appeals Y o A new case was filed appealing the Board Progress 190 kept.Starting july 1, 1995,forty percent of Appeals'decision to uphold the actions Rough 171 of my time was spent in Belmont as of the Zoning Officer and Building Final 354 Inspector of Plumbing and Gas Fitting.As Inspector concerning the property at 43 Layout and Design 42 alternate building inspector,time was Waltham Street. Plan Review 30 spent performing the duties of this position along with the normal responsibilities of Superior Court issued a decision affirming Reinspection 71 plumbing and gas fitting inspector. the Board's denial of a Variance and Special Illegal 14 Permit concerning an accessory apartment Inspector of Wires application at 98-100 Waltham Street. Gas Fitting: Permits Issued 552 Number of Gas Permits Issued 336 Inspections/Reinspections 12>0 An out-of-court settlement was reached Mercury Tests 202 regarding the case of Robert Damiano, Final 336 Inspections for Occupancy Permits 62 87-89 Templeton Parkway. Inspections for License Renewals Plan Reviews 22 Restaurants/Bars 2 Still pending Layout and Design 43 Complaints Investigated 8 There is one case pending: Russo&Sons, Inc.,560 Pleasant Street Progress 74 Fire Investigations 7 Wegal 4 Electrical Layouts for Town and Facilities Inspection Fees Received from Contractors 20 Dhision Plumbing/Gas Permits $24,145 Electrical Violation Letters 17 Inspector of Buildings Accessory Apartment Inspections 21 Accessory Apartments Inspections& Building Permits Issued 523 Building Inspections 49 Follow-up reports 15 Occupancy Permits 62 Complaints Investigated 14 Electrical Violations Sign Permits 42 Certificate of Occupancy Inspections 9 Homes 20 Certificates of Inspection 64 Meetings: Restaurants/Bars 5 Complaints Investigated 25 Attorneys 17 Commercial 7 Accessory Apartment Inspections Architects,Engineers 17 Petitions Checked/Approved for Town &Follow-up Reports 15 Boston Gas Co g Council from Boston Edison/NE Tel 8 Estimated Cost of New Construction: Building Inspector 47 Meetings Residential $330,000 Contractors 43 Consultations&information Non-Residential $7,633,000 Department Public Works 35 with Town Residents 20 Estimated Costs of Additions or Department Community Boston Edison 12 Alterations: Development&Planning 14 New England Telephone 8 Residential $3,072,746 Educational 10 Electrical Inspectors 9 Non-Residential $25,948,418 Fire Prevention Inspector 16 Traffic Commission 10 Fees collected by the Building Health Department 7 Building Department Personnel 30 department 1997: $524,274 Manufacturer's Representatives 24 Health Department 5 New England Associates of Plumbing Fire Inspector 4 New Residential Raze Inspectors 2 Fire Alarm Inspections 15 (3)Single Family (1)Single Family Plumbing&Gas Inspectors 19 Town Council 8 Residence Residence Realtors 16 Fees Collected (1)lWo-family (1) Barn $62,824.00 Residence Watertown School Department 14 53 Watertown Housing Sandra Kasabian-Hoffman upon the criteria outlined in the EDP,sub- Partnership (Town Councilor) sequently narrowed the list to 5. In The Watertown Housing Partnership over- Roberta Miller November of 1997,the WADC held public sees housing policy and programs for the Mark Sideris (Town Councilor) hearings during which the 5 developers presented their plans to the community. town.This year the Partnership continued to administer the HOME program,which In February of 1997,the Reuse Plan In December of 1997,the WADC voted to brings federal dollars into Watertown to Update was approved by the Town initiate negotiations with 2 of the develop expand affordable housing opportunities. Council.The document served as the ers with the goal of designating the pre- blueprint to guide the redevelopment of ferred developer in early 1998. The major program initiative continues to the 37 acre property.The Plan stipulated be the First Home program,which pro Also in December of 1997,the Secretary an all commercial (office, R&D,light vides downpayment assistance for income manufacturing) reuse of the facility as of Environmental Affairs approved the eligible first time homebuyers.So far the well as a 7 acre park area to be used for Arsenal project under the Massachusetts program has assisted 19 homebuyers. additional open space and recreation. Environmental Policy Act(MEPA) stating This year also saw a change in HOME that the Environmental Impact Report This parcel will be transferred directly to funding from the Nichols Avenue project, the Town of Watertown at no cost under (EIR) adequately and properly complies which did not go forward,to funding of the federal Historic Monument program. with the provisions and regulations of the deleading and new siding at Lexington Included is the Commander's Mansion Act.Additionally,in October of 1997, the Gardens.Both properties are owned by which is on the National Register of WADC received notification that a$1.5 the Watertown Housing Authority. Historic Places and was built in 1865. million grant was awarded by the US The Partnership,through the Department The Reuse Plan recommends that the Economic Development Administration of Community Development and Planning, building be reused for a museum, com- (EDA) to assist with infrastructure improve- continued to administer the"Get the munity cultural center,and made avail- ments associates with the Arsenal project. Lead Out" Program,and the"Home able for public and private functions. l/1APC Report of Improvement Loan Program", for In November of 1997,the Town of owners of single and two family houses. Watertown was awarded$100,000 grant Activities These programs are funded by the to help renovate the structure from the The Metropolitan Planning Council Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency. Massachusetts Preservation Projects Fund. (MAPC) is the regional planning agency representing 101 cities and towns in the Watertown Arsenal s March of 1997,the Town of Watertown metropolitan Boston area.Created by an submitted an Economic Development act of the Legislature in 1963, it serves as Development Conveyance (EDC) application to the US a forum for state and local officials and Corporation Army to acquire the remaining 30 acres provides technical planning assistance The Home Rule Legislation which autho- of the property.The EDC program allows and service delivery to its member com- rized the creation of the Watertown local base closure communities to pur- munities. MAPC works with cities and Arsenal Development Corporation (WADC) chase surplus military property directly towns through eight subregional organiza- was signed by Governor William Weld on and with favorable terms.After months of [ions whose members are appointed by January 6, 1997.The WADC was established negotiations with Army Real Estate officials, chief elected officials and planning to oversee the redevelopment of the former a preliminary deal to acquire the site boards.The Council provides the subre- Army Materials Technology Laboratory was reached. gions with financial,planning and admin- {AMYL) and was granted the authority to acquire the property from the Army and While negotiations were ongoing with the istrative support,and offers technical aid subsequently to convey for development. Army,the WADC completed the prepara- on selected special projects.MAPC is a The following citizens were appointed by tion of an Economic Development Plan designated Economic Development the Town Manager and Council to serve (EDP).The EDP outlined the marketing, District of the Metropolitan Planning on the Board of Directors: selection,financing and zoning strategies Organization (MPO),has oversight for the redevelopment of the property. responsibility for the region's federally John Airasian,Chairman The EDP was submitted to the Town funded transportation program. Sal Ciccarelli,Vice Chairman Council and was adopted unanimously on MAPC completed another successful year (Town Councilor) September 23, 1997. Alison Carnduff,Treasurer of working with its communities,state In October of 1997,the WADC requested agencies,various non-profit groups,uni- James McDermott,Clerk Expressions of Interest from developers versities,businesses,special interest James Bean for the redevelopment of the facility.The coalitions,state and federal legislators, Joseph DiVico WADC reviewed 10 proposals and,based and other regional planning agencies.The 54 agency held at least 15 regularly scheduled meetings each month, eight of which were that were inspected was submitted to the The GIS lab completed numerous gro- in the different subregions.These meetings Massachusetts Highway Department. jects for both individual communities and plus special workshops,seminars,focus A new project that was organized last year for the region as a whole.Staff worked groups,and conferences linked together was the Metropolitan Greenspace with Watertown on developing a tree the hundreds of issues and individuals Initiative. Over 65 environmental and his inventory for the community.They also who are part of the Boston area's and the toric preservation organizations have indi- completed a wireless communication nation's planning scene. It was this net- cated their interest in participating in this siting study for one of the subregions,an work that provided the energy,vision and effort that MAPC is currently staffing.As open space update for another,and a focus for MAPC's activities in the region. part of this project the agency has pro- comprehensive regional zoning report for After years of concern about the role of duced a map that illustrates the develop vet another. GIS staff conducted a number local governments in state transportation ment growth in the greater Boston area of workshops on parcel date automation planning and funding decisions, 1997 saw from 1970 to 1991.The accompanying and acted as an information resource for a landmark achievement in the formation data documents the results of urban municipalities interested in beginning or of a new Boston area MPO.The reorgani- sprawl that has occurred showing a 15% expanding their GIS programs. zation was the outcome of federally sup- growth in land development with only a In addition to playing a major role on a ported mediation,with MAPC serving as a 55%growth in population. MAPC staff has number of regional boards and commis- key negotiator for a stronger state/local also been working with graduate students sions,the staff also applied for and partnership. MPO voting members now at the Harvard Graduate School of Design received grants to investigate shared ser- include seven cities and towns,along with on the potential for open space protection vices in one of the subregions and also to seven state and regional agencies,including as the region continues to grow. During help communities deal with the issue of MAPC.The municipal and regional mem- the past year the agency increased its utility deregulation. MAPC continued to bers of the MPO are responsible for pro- association with the Boston Harbor participate with the South Weymouth gramming about$40 million per year in Islands National Recreation Area planning Naval Air Station reuse planning project. local road and bridge projects,about project with the expectation that the One MAPC staff member was contracted one-third of the total funds available for agency will become one of the groups to work part time for the Town of the metropolitan region. MAPC works with officially involved in the establishment of Rockland on planning issues related to communities to develop a list of local this new federal/state facility. the base closure and reuse. projects to be programmed for funding. MAPC produced a number of publications In 1997, the agency also completed a In September,the first Transportation during 1997.This past year the agency project that focuses on opportunities for Improvement Program was adopted by published its first yearly calendar with bolstering the shoreline seafood process- the new MPO.The TIP also included$10 each month displaying maps containing ing and distribution industries in the million for"Enhancement projects",and different demographic data of interest to Commonwealth,including an analysis of $3 million for Transportation Demand communities in the region and their resi- the importance of the industry to affected Management (TDM) projects.As a dents.The Data Center also published a coastal communities in Massachusetts. regional planning agency MAPC's role is report,Top Employers,which listed by MAPC updated its Overafl Economic in both the Enhancement and TDM community the number of employees per Program for 1997,analyzing the regional programs is to solicit proposals and pre- establishment in the region.Other recent economv and economic development needs. screen them for funding eligibility. projects include a Title 5 compliance com- and revising the list of projects eligible for As always,the agency also participated in a puler software application for Ashland and federal funds through the Economic variety of transportation related projects. Hopkinton, economic forecasting for sev- Development Administration (EDA).The One of the major efforts this year involved eral agencies,school enrolment forecasts agency administered a Community working on the Transportation Summit for several communities,and updates to Adjustment Planning Grant provided by the meeting that was held in Springfield.This the community profile series.The Data U.S. Department of Housing and Urban effort was organized to support the reau- Center, working with Harvard University Development to examine community thorization of ISTEA and help assure that and the University of Massachusetts responses to defense industry downsizing federal transportation funding for New Boston, also completed a collaborative and evaluate defense dependencies of England is not diminished. MAPC com- project known as The Massachusetts small and mid-sized municipalities.The pleted a three-year Pavement Management Electronic Atlas.This atlas provides access an project included several focus groups d system project that involved the inspection 1ia the Internet to information on the 351 a regional forum.A final report groups and and towns in the state.All the infor of all Federal-aid eligible roadways strate- gies to adjust and diversify local throughout the entire MAPC region.A mation can be downloaded. economies in response to reduced defense report on the over 3,000 miles of road spending will be completed in early 1998. 55 School Department The Watertown School Department and The elementary level was in its third year At the High School,two new courses have Watertown School Committee are com- of implementing a system-wide mathemat- been established.As a result of a pilot mitted to the successful implementa- ics program,"Investigations in Number, program last year with two students,the tion of their Strategic Plan 1995-2000 Data and Space".The program was devel- course,Advanced Placement Statistics,is developed through an inclusive com- oped through a National Science being taught to one class of juniors and munity process. The district has Foundation Grant to meet the requirements seniors.Also,the course Applied Algebra progressed to a new level of planning of the NCTM Standards and it provides an is offered as a two-year program which by integrating all locally developed approach consistent with the Massachusetts will,hopefully,bring successful algebra goals with state and national priorities Framework.The district began imple- achievement to more and requirements. menting the technology component of the students. High school teachers are also program with the help of the computer including open-ended assessment in their School Construction specialists.A math night provided parents teaching and in their assessment of stu- The year was marked by an aggressive with an in-depth view of the mathematics dents.A committee was formed to write schedule to successfully complete the that their children are doing in the class- open-ended questions (with scoring Cunniff School and begin the Middle room. Open-ended assessments and guides) that were administered to all 9th School construction. Elementary students rubrics as well as supplementary materi- be r and will were able to move back into the newly- als were developed during summer'97 grade students this administered to all year 9th and 1 ill grade remodeled and expanded Cunniff School workshops.Watertown was one of many students next year.Graphing calculators following the April vacation and enjoyed Massachusetts districts that received a 4 continue to be used regularly in most closing out the school year in bright new year grant from the Center for the math classes at the high school and stu- quarters.The demolition of the Marshall Enhancement of Mathematics and Science dents are experiencing this technology as Spring School in July to make way for a Education at Northeastern University for early as grade 7. new,unified Middle School complex was professional development for implementa- a notable event watched by many students tion of this program.Many of our teachers If one were to visit a mathematics class- and citizens.The Middle School will have become teacher-leaders who con- room,one would see students doing have a new auditorium,gymnasium, duct workshops for our staff and for mathematics—students interacting with library/media center,expanded cafeto- other districts. one another, using math manipulatives, rium,classroom wing,office suite and calculators,computers and other mathe- other improved instructional spaces all The Mathematics Department received a matical tools along with textbooks,apply- grant to develop WWW mathematics in mathematics to real world problems', surrounding a new courtyard. g P projects that integrate with Investigations, and learning strategies to solve complex The upgrades to the educational facilities in collaboration with staff from Bolt, problems.Teachers are encouraging stu- in Watertown not only benefit the students Beranek and Newman,CESAME and the dents to think about the mathematics in of Watertown but the community as a Math Forum. Projects will be implemented one situation and to make connections whole,demonstrating the commitment during the 98-99 school year. to other areas within mathematics and of Watertown residents to its future. At the Middle School, one area that is other disciplines. Mathematics receiving special emphasis this year is Computational proficiency will continue The Mathematics Department continues open-ended assessment.Also,students to be an integral part of mathematics are being asked to write in their mathe- education. However,computational the process of revising its curriculum matics classes.The goal of having students P and aligning it to the Massachusetts proficiency is not enough. Students still ro learn to communicate mathematically has need proficiency with basic facts. The Mathematics Curriculum Framework.The led us to include writing as part of the P � y change in mathematics education contin- also must become good problem solvers, ues to take place as it has over the past mathematics curriculum.A new program, and be able to communicate and to decades. Changes in technology, changes titled Connected Mathematics,is also reason mathematically. in the needs of society and changes in the being piloted in all three grades.This program is organized around interesting Science uses of mathematics make us redefine the problem settings.Students solve problems way we prepare children to understand The Scott Foresman Elementary Science relations mathematics and realize its power. and in s doing they observe patterns and Program is being implemented on a three hips,then they discuss,verbalize year cycle. The program, "Discover The and try to generalize these patterns Wonder"was introduced in Kindergarten and relationships. 56 through Grade 3. "Discover The Wonder" a number of endeavors that added manv the two-vear Watertown Middle School is a hands-on science program that inte- positive aspects to our programs there. Tracking Comnuttee Study,summer work- grates the science with language arts, Mr. Cedrone worked on oceanology shops featured the creation of a Reading mathematics,social studies and the programs through the University of Strategies booklet and the formatting of humanities. Kindergarten students learn Massachusetts, Ms.Thompson received a Writing Across the Curriculum about the senses and"Making Changes", a grant to enable her students to partici- Program.Writing concultant Dr.John such as making butter from cream. First pate in the Science Museum Explorers Collins,presented a three-day Reading- grade students observe the metamorphosis program. Mr. Gorman was a trainer for Writing symposium to all Middle School of mealworms to beetles. In second grade, the National Science Foundation "Project teachers and encouraged a writing portfo- students study the differences in animal SEED" course for which the High School's lio project among four departments.This body coverings,such as snakeskin,fur and Mr.Wittenhagen was a Regional reading-writing initiative is of vital impor- feathers.Third grade students build habi- Instructor.Other WHS activities included lance to all of our youngsters as they pre- tats and shelters for animals and plants. the institution of a new program in pare for high stakes, state-mandated Grades 4 and 5 continue to use,and inte- "Allied Health Careers',a program with MCAS testing. grate into the curriculum,pilot materials Philippe Cousteau and Marine Careers Students participated in the Voice of from Scott Foresman. Some of the popu- with the Boston Sea Rovers,the produc- Democracy Contest,the League of Women lar units are"Rain Forest","Solar tion of an award winning TV program that Voters Essay Contest,the VFW Memorial S}stem"and"Vertebrates"in Grade 4 was based upon work done by the cur- Day Essay Contest,the Sports Museum and"Fun In Motion", "Pedaling Uphill" bens. m chairman and Biology Club mem Essay Contest,and the National Council of and"The Second Voyage of the Mimi" tiers.The Advanced Placement Chemistry Teachers of English Writing Contest,as in Grade>. students under the guidance of Ms. Rost ALL ea well as many others. In the past four earned placement scores. Nine stu- gained coveted accep- gai en e students The Elementary Science Curriculum has dents were awarded Lowell Fellowships to lances years nine the e is gai Young Writer's been revised to further address the attend courses at Harvard University in a Conference held each Mav at Vermont's Massachusetts Science/Technology program coordinated by Mr. Buckley. Frameworks.The"Discover The Wonder" Middlebury College.A Watertown High modules are grade level appropriate and The year culminated in a highly successful School student won the prestigious provide a strong text and activity link Science Awards Program that included National Council of Teachers of English between the curriculum and the frame recognition for Middle and High School Writing Achievement Award,an award works. Many of our previous hands-on students and staff and the presentation of bestowed on twenty high school seniors activities for students align with the activi- the prestigious Bausch and Lomb Award around the country.The English ties suggested in the modules.For example, for Excellence in Science to Aboud Ghazi. Department has been commended by Fast Plants enhances the Grade 2 "Living the NCTE for excellence in instructional Things"module,and"Habitats"and English/Language Arts practice, especially in the quality of its "Shelters"complement the Voyage During 1997, the Watertown Secondary writing program. of the Mimi in Grade 3. School English Language Arts Department A new reading/language arts program was consisted of 20 full and part-time teachers implemented in Watertown's elementary Ongoing teacher training at conferences, housed in three separate schools: schools.The Harcourt/Brace"Signatures" workshops,Professional Development Watertown High School, Watertown Program and the Mondo"Bookmark" programs,and EDCO workshops help to Middle School and the Hosmer East program were selected after a year of keep teachers aware of new teaching Middle School.methods and materials. Budget funding extensive piloting of four major programs and grants helped keep our materials— At Watertown High School three new by thirty-one teachers. Both programs are texts and consumables—current and English courses were piloted during 1997: literature-based and integrated for read- available to staff. a Grade 9 Reading-Writing Workshop ing,writing,listening,speaking,and view- course,a multi-grade Transitional ing. Phonics,spelling, language/grammar, The secondary science program enjoyed English program for students with process writing,and study skills are a very successful year during which we Limited English Proficiency,and a Grade taught in context and are related to the entered the final phase of a major revision 10 World Literature course. strong selection of children's literature of our Middle School science curriculum. Middle School English teachers were busy found in each program. This new program incorporates life, earth,chemical and physical sciences in a with construction issues as well as review- As part of the new implementation, an modified spiral curriculum structure. ing the results of a school-wide Carnegie assessment strategy was developed to Middle School staff have been involved in Foundation Survev.Also,as a follow-up to assure student growth and development 5- in literacy skills. During the summer,an Director to meet the demands of the new School and participated in home stays assessment team comprised of several framework in World Languages,to react with students. elementary teachers developed"bench- to visiting team reports,to respond to a A successful International Breakfast mark reading skills" for each grade level. state audit of the TBE program,and to was held at Watertown High School in These skills were arrived at by examining begin to develop a program for World the spring. the scope and sequence of skills in the Languages in the sixth grade. "Signatures" and"Bookmark" programs In World Languages,a study group inves- Students participated in interactive televi- and the State Department of Education tigated three basic concepts in the new sion programs through MCET. French Frameworks in English/Language Arts. students entered the annual Grand Both implemented programs are strong in framework developed by the state Board Concours, sponsored by the American reading/language arts assessment utilizing of Education as part of Educational Association of Teachers of French.The a variety of tests such as objective,open- Reform: speaking and writing proficiency International Club met regularly with a ended questions, running records,infor- in the target language,the incorporation broad program of social and cultural mal reading inventories,and portfolios. of new technology in the curriculum,and interest including tastings of international the inclusion of all students in the World foods,music,and dance. An important part of any new implemen- Languages classroom.The Department cation is the inservice training of the began the systematic purchase of new Occupational Education staff.All elementary teachers and support materials which teach students to listen, The programs of the Occupational staff have been actively engaged in speak,read,and write proficiently in the Education Department, grades 6 12,were several training sessions.Consultants languages offered:Spanish,French,Italian, evaluated by an outside evaluation team in from Harcourt/Brace and Mondo have and Armenian.New cutting edge software April, 1997,as part of Stage 2 of the dis- been training the elementary staff on a programs and CD-ROMS were purchased trict's Six-Year Curriculum Review Cvcle. regular basis. for these languages and for Latin.The The members of this outside Visiting Watertown's Reading Recovery Program is Department used professional development Team included representatives from the time to learn how to incorporate these fully implemented and services all children programs into the curriculum. Members Newton,Salem, and Somerville School who are at high risk for reading failure. of the Special Education Department gave Districts as well as a representative from Reading Recovery is an early reading a workshop to the World Languages the Nashoba Valley Technical High School. intervention program for high risk first Department on helpful techniques for Department members were pleased with grade children screened and in need of teaching students with special needs. the evaluation report and felt that it specialized one-to-one reading instruction. reflected the progress made and the com- All reading recovery teachers receive The ESL and TBE faculty conducted a mitment of the staff,while addressing the ongoing training on a regular basis.The Home Language Survey of every student in concerns to be discussed and revisited by training is given at Watertown's Reading the district.Thirty-seven languages were the school district.Due to the recommen- Recovery Training Site by Cheri Beale who discovered. New computer procedures dations of this Visiting Team,the require- is Teacher Leader for Watertown's were put into place in each school to ments of Educational Reform,and the Reading Recovery Program. keep track of the languages spoken by on-going development of School-to- Watertown's students.A program was Career pathways, the Occupational As in the past three years,Watertown's designed to hire first language tutor/ Education curriculum will continually be Elementary Assessment Team has been translators to work individually or in revised and refined. developing open-ended questions for small groups with students who are very The Business/Financial Services career students in grades three,four, and five. recent immigrants or who need temporary strand (under the School-to-Career Open-ended questions,along with scoring support as they become used to their initiative) was implemented with interdis- rubrics,are developed by teachers as ESL classes. part of the elementary as pro- ciplinary planning teams working on the gram in conjunction with the State In response to requests by the Greek Food Services/Hospitality,Health and Department of Education Frameworks community,the Department attempted to Hospitals,and Graphic Design career and Assessment Program. develop a course in the Modern Greek strands. Planning continues for the language for 1996-1997.Surveys were Graphic Design and Technology/ World Languages sent out and students were sought out, Telecommunications strand. The faculty in the Department of World but there was not enough enrollment to The Industrial Technology Lego Dacia Languages,English as a Second Language make up a class. curriculum in grades 6-8 of the middle (ESL),and Transitional Bilingual Students from France visited Watertown school continues to be successful in pro- Education (TBE) worked with the High School and Watertown Middle viding a problem-solving environment for 58 silver medal.The Middle School Band also participated in an annual "Jamboree"featuring middle school bands from Melrose,Stoneham, Lynnfield, Wakefield and Watertown.The Cunniff' and Lowell Choruses participated in an exchange concert with the Bright School in Waltham. In May,the annual Elementary Spring Concert,Middle School 0 Spring Concert and the High School rF Spring Concert were presented. +a�► � ' Throughout the year,various music per- 1 I forming groups performed at a variety of Career Day exhibit places including the Watertown Mall, Arsenal Mall,and the Senior Center at the Philips School. students and using the application of Association,Massachusetts Art Educators math and science in each project.The Association,and the Massachusetts Drama The Visual Arts Department participated Familv and Consumer Sciences curricu- Guild.The MMEA sponsored the in art exhibits held s the Boston Globe hum has aligned several health and con- Northeastern Junior and Senior District Scholastic Art Contest,Worcester Art sumer units with the frameworks,while Music Festivals at Gordon College. Museum and the annual event held at the the newly implemented computer strand Watertown was represented by students Watertown Mall. individual students gives students familiarity,in a spiral who participated in the Concert Bands received recognition at the Boston Globe approach grades 6-S,with keyboarding, and Orchestras at these festivals.The Art Contest. Each year a student from the word processing,data base and spread- MAEA sponsored the Art All-State at the junior class,selected by recommenda- sheet applications. Worcester Art Museum and Watertown tions from teachers,is sent to participate was represented with a junior from the in Art All-State at the Worcester Art At the high school,all program areas high school.The MDG sponsored a Museum.Ms. Mimi Asnes was selected as changed due to the infusion of technology drama competition in the spring and Watertown's representative. as well as the School-to-Career initiative which has afforded the opportunity to Watertown was represented at the compe The entire staff was involved with rewriting enhance and expand curriculum,creating tition with students winning awards for the Visual Art, Music and Drama curricu- several career strands,including acting and technical theater. hum guides using the"Massachusetts Arts Framework"and the Business/Financial Services,Food The Fine Ants Department holds annual cNational Standards Services/Hospitality,Health and Hospitals. events throughout the year that the com- teachers attended the Arts"as resources. In addition, munity can attend The Drama Program ended regional and national . The Computer Aided Design (CAD) Lab conferences for the various disciplines integrated GIS (Geographic Information presented a fall production,a musical gand a spring production.This past year's with special attention given to workshops SvStem) softwvare while the Auto, musical was"Guys and Dolls."The Music on assessment and our state frameworks. Electricity,and Wood Labs increased tech- nology in the curriculum.The Business Social Studies Education Department is now enjoying a December, March,April,and May by the P The Social Studies department strives to various performing groups. In December new state-of-the-art Windows 9>Lab. assemblies were held at each of the ele- provide, to all students,the integration of These improvements enhance the learning content, and critical thinking skills that environment and opportunities for our mentary schools and evening concerts PP will assist them in becoming well students to learn and apply the skills were held at WHS by the Middle and the informed,participatory citizens. Students needed in todav's careers. High School Music Departments. In March, the instrumental music program are afforded the opportunity to use the in grades 4- I2 presented the annual skills and abilities that they are acquiring Fine, Applied and "Band-a-rama" in the WH5 Kelley to better understand the world around g them. Emphasis on the study of non-west- Performin Arts Gvmnasium. In April,the Middle School The Fine,Applied and Performing Arts Band participated in the MICA ern societies in recognition of the need Department had students participate in for better understanding of the history annual events sponsored by the (Massachusetts Instrumental Conductors a and culture of the peoples of Asia,Africa Association) Music Festival winning Massachusetts Music Educatorsand other societies,as well as emphasis 59 meetings is in place at all schools,bringing continued growth and development of a parents into a closer partnership with comprehensive guidance and counseling school staff.At the High School and program for all students. Middle School levels counselors have played leadership roles in the school Physical Education/ reform efforts and initiation of School-to- Health/Athletics Jkv Career programs.At the elementary level The Physical Education Department offers `�. new models of more effective Child students a wide range of physical activi- Study and Peer Support teams have ties.The program is developmental at the S •,,j S been developed. elementary level with emphasis on gross •+�� Classroom-guidance programs are offered motor skills and activities that promote social interaction safety,and respect for at all grade levels throughout the system. ry p one another.At the Middle School,the Topics addressed include orientation to the high school,testing,post high school curriculum broadens to include individual/ planning,communication skills,conflict team sports, fitness assessment and self- testing skills.The High School curriculum resolution,study skills and more. Counselors at all levels work directly with includes a Wellness Course for Grade 9 and Life Fitness for upperclassmen.The Social Studies class project students in one-to-one,small group and large group settings.By monitoring focus in physical education is health- progress and coordinating a wide variety related physical activity. on the centrality of western civilization, of resources counselors reach out to stu- Health instruction is also provided for all continues.Specific initiatives include the dents and parents in times of need. students K-9.This program strives to improvement of writing skills and the engage students to take responsibility for development of research skills,of all stu- As part of the Six Year Curriculum Review dents,as applied to historical content.The Cycle,the Guidance Department has met their lives in promoting healthy life-styles. use of primary sources,debate,role playing, with a visiting team and developed an Many opportunities in student support cooperative learning,data based inquiry, action plan for future activities. and staff development are funded through guest speakers and study trips are other Recommendations were made in the the Drug Free Schools and Health modes of teaching and learning empha- areas of role description,special educa- Protection Grant. Programs such as sized by the Social Studies Department. lion,School-to-Career,technology and "Smoking Cessation",Tobacco Education communication.During the coming years, Group, the Tobacco Awareness Program, Teacher workshops in the use of open- this plan will provide a blueprint for the Peer Mediation,A Watertown Alcohol ended prompts and rubrics continued into a second year. Staff members in grades six,seven and eleven were part of a formal open-ended assessment process and all students in grades eight,nine and ten will also follow this sequence. This use of alternative assessment is a process designed to assess students'strength through the use of content as well as skills. Another major focus of the Social Studies=•i .* ~ ` ` department was the alignment of the 1t=i• social studies curriculum with the new - 711 JAI_ state mandated frameworks. f ILT i Guidance The Guidance Department continues to provide programs,services and interven- �s lions which assist students in achieving M r their maximum personal development, both as learners and as human beings.The 1997 Girl's Field Hockey Team program of counselor-parent breakfast 60 Rehabilitation Experience, Project In September, 1997,a new initiative was the program for Fall admission occurred Alliance Membership,CPR training, the established to provide specific reading in March.Children from all three districts Student Assistant Program and Adolescent instruction support to eligible students in attended the Hosmer-East Preschool. Assault Awareness Prevention. grades four through eight.This initiative Parents may call the preschool at The Athletic Program offers the students is in collaboration with the Carroll School 926-7765 for an application if their child competition in eighteen different varsity which specializes in reading instruction for is not listed on the town census. sports.Watertown schedules thirty-seven students with a specific reading disability. Children registering for kindergarten teams for athletic competition in the Significant progress has been made at the must be five by September 7 of the year Middlesex League.The Girls Ice Hockey elementary, middle and high school levels they enter school.The change in kinder- Team participated as a member of the for increasing the amount of time that garten entrance age has been phased in Eastern Massachusetts Ice Hockey League special education personnel are working over a three year period.The 1997-98 and Intramural Wrestling was scheduled within regular classrooms to provide school year will be the last year that auto- during the winter season. Many of the teams direct support to students with special matic waivers are granted to children continue to represent the community well needs.This approach has reduced the turning five from September 7 through at both the League and State levels. amount of time children spend outside December 31.Children in this age group of their classrooms receiving special will need to participate in a parent funded Special Education education services. assessment process to obtain the recom- The Department of Special Education mendation for exception to the age policv. Services continues to develop and imple- Early Childhood This policy is scheduled for full imple- ment new initiatives to meet the changing Education mentation in September, 1998.Once needs of students with special needs. Early Childhood Programming in again,the town census information and The school-based model of support that Watertown continues to grow. Initiatives lists will be utilized to inform families of began last year at the Cunniff School was in childcare for working families,funded these changes and registration procedures. expanded to the Lowell School.This model through Community Partnership Proposals The Early Childhood Coordinator is an program provides support to students brought much needed services to chil- active member of the Council on with social and behavioral needs and was dren and their families.Grants totaling Community Education and participates in conducted by staff from the Gifford $230,000 enabled early childhood ser- networking with private providers through School,a special needs school that vices to work on quality related issues, the Tri-Community Educators group,the focuses on serving students with social national accreditation applications,support Early Childhood Coordinators Network and behavioral needs.This model also for special education students, parents, with surrounding communities,and the provided support to classroom teachers. and families and professional develop- rich professional opportunities through ment for public and private providers colleges and universities. Special Education personnel at all levels throughout the community. participated in departmental professional Parents are an integral part of the development activities for the various aca- HosThe Integrated Preschool Model the program planning and a focus for sup- demic content subjects. This approach with special East continues to serve chh ecial needs along with typically the port, resource and referral.A Parent enabled staff to gain more insight into the with sp Advisory Council meets the third Thursday various curriculum issues for each sub- developing classmates.This model of of each month. ject area at all levels. inclusion represents an excellent oppor- tunity for families to experience the diver- Interested community members are Plans were completed for the implemen- sity of Watertown. The goal is to create a invited to join the newly formed tation of a new preschool class for stu- learning environment that embraces indi dents with significant needs.This class vidual differences and strengths while sup- calCommunity Partnership Council. Please will provide a full day program with a porting the needs of all children served.A the Community and leave i message for p g the Community Partnership Coordinator if summer component and home base ser- devoted faculty and program staff support vices. In addition to this new preschool you are interested in joining. Parents,pri- P children and their families in an excellent vate or public providers and business or class,the Transitional Learning start to their educational career. community partners are all welcome. Adjustment Class for the middle school Applications for the lottery for admission instituted a summer component which was conducted in conjunction with the to the integrated Preschool for typical Watertown Summer School Program. children occurred in early spring.The town census lists were used for a direct mailing to age-eligible children.Visits to 61 N iddle School dents have gained skills with technology Restructuring that,in some cases,surpass the adults. During the first half of the year the middle In all subjects students participated in a t school prepared for the construction of number of field trips to enrich their .. an addition to the school.During the learning.To enhance the unit on summer the old Marshall Springs building immigration the students started off a k; which had been used as the sixth grade school day at 5 AM when they assembled , �� ,."• wring of the school was razed.There was for a trip to Ellis Island and the Statue of much sadness in the community as so Liberty.Two hundred eighth grade students many residents had memories of their climbed Mt. Monadnock with teachers school years in that building.The demob- and parents,as part of the curriculum tion plan called for the wonderful big unit with the theme"Challenge'.They also Day trip to New York City windows to be removed before the tested the waters of Boston Harbor, demolition.They will be used in the new attended plays in Boston ,and visited a Newspaper Club,Respect For Differences, building.The lintel above the main number of local sites as part of the Career Homework Clubs,Tennis,Field Hockey, entrance with the name of the Marshall Exploration Program.The week long Floor Hockey,Ice Hockey,Cross Country Springs etched in the stone,has also been Washington trip continues to be a high- Running,Track, Flag Football, Mountain stored to be used in the courtyard as part light of the eighth grade. Biking,and Open gym.As part of the of a bench.Thus, these pieces of WWat ertown history will be incorporated It is important at middle school to pro- Cops and Kids Grant, policemen have the new building. vide students opportunities to join in a joined staff members in leading a number in variety of activities.This year funds from of the sports teams. The school's commu- ln 1997 there was continued focus on the Cops and Kids Grant and Eastern pity police officer can be seen frequently reading and writing in all of the subjects. Enterprises combined with school funds in the school, having lunch with the stu- During three of the release days,the staff allowed for clubs and sports to take place dents and chatting with them informally to participated in writing workshops.This until six in the evening.Among the activi- create a positive link among the school, was followed by meetings to discuss ways ties offered this year are Mock Trial police department and the community. to implement a folder system for students Program,Odyssey of the Mind,Art, in all subjects which will assist in the Computers,Drama,Strategic Games, monitoring of student progress. One thrust behind this initiative was the state's new testing program which requires that students answer"open ended"questions in all subjects.No longer will the test only include multiple choice questions. This means that in math,for example,students will need to write out how to solve a problem;a number answer is no longer I sufficient in all cases. r 1997 was the second year of the Systemic School Change Grant.The school is part of a network of 200 middle schools ! throughout the country looking for ways to improve schooling for middle school students.As a result of an extensive stu- dent and teacher survey sponsored by the •* ti grant,the school is concentrating on ways to improve instruction by stressing the use of different ways to teach students that produce academic results. The use of technology increased as teachers use the Internet to enhance lessons and stu- Eastern Enterprises Foundation presentation 62 The Professional and the Work Sampling System; series of workshops focusing on instruc- Development Program Watertown Middle School featured two tional issues and strategies related to In recognition of each school's unique series of workshops. One series was pre- longer blocks of instructional time. needs and objectives for the 1996-97 sented by Dr.John Collins entitled Presenters included Dr.Stephen school year,the Professional Development "Writing Across the Curriculum"and the Ellenwood from Boston University,Jill Program was designed to emphasize second,presented by Peggy Stevens of the Mirman-Owen from the Network and building based programs.As a result each Educational Development Center, focused members of the faculty At building offered its own program of W the topic g school climate.h School a variety of work- District-wide prioirities-assessment, workshops.The Hosmer School focused Watertown High technology,the Curriculum Frameworks, professional development on improving shops were offered featuring such topics and the characteristics of second lan- communication among the staff and plan- as Classroom Management presented by guage learners-were accommodated in a ning for school restructuring;the Cunniff Charlie Technology of the Gifford School, variety of ways,including afterchool and Lowell Schools collaborated on a Using Technology presented by Linda workshops,department meetings,grade series of workshops on performance Chang ,and Dealing Positively with level meetings and faculty meetings. assessments, Reading Recovery and Change presented by Dr. Barbara Gortych. Project Read strategies for classroom use, in addition,the high school offered a 63 c t�.� Town of Watertown Total Tally Sheet #Eligible Voters 21,819 General Election November 4,1997 Total Votes Cast 6,856 Percentage Turnout 31.4% Precinct wat wat wat wat. wet wat. wai. wat. Wat. Wat wat Wat Grand Total Votes Cast Prec. Prec. Prec. Prec. Pree. Prec. Prec. Prec. Prec. Prec. Prec. Prec. Total OFFICES and CANDIDATES A-1 A•2 A3 8.4 B-5 B-6 C-7 C 8 C-9 D-10 D-11 0.12 Voters: 378 424 513 680 487 483 658 646 468 834 730 535 6.856 Council President/ School Committee Member Blanks 38 38 41 69 55 36 50 30 30 32 46 29 494 G.Jack ZOIIo 186 172 221 265 166 204 297 330 198 361 320 266 2.986 Cly0e L.Younger 154 213 248 345 266 243 309 284 259 436 362 238 3,357 Write-ins 1 3 1 2 2 1 5 2 2 19 TOTAL 378 424 513 680 487 483 658 646 488 834 730 535 6,856 Council-At-Large Blanks 479 516 698 916 580 579 837 901 705 1,074 1.009 770 9.064 Sandra Kasabian Hoffman 186 244 262 369 269 242 343 307 258 417 315 262 3.474 Mark Sideris 168 198 219 299 242 281 284 247 180 366 292 207 2.983 Frederick L.Pugtiese 168 209 225 315 202 170 321 293 193 398 365 229 3.088 Paul J.Denning 233 277 320 493 359 332 441 384 267 492 420 326 4,344 Merily'1 Petitt0 Devaney 277 250 327 328 289 326 403 449 346 584 518 346 4.443 Write-Ins 1 2 1 7 2 3 3 3 5 1 28 TOTAL 1.512 1.696 2.052 2,720 1.948 1.932 2.632 2.584 1.952 3.336 2.920 2,140 27.424 District A Councillor Blanks 83 105 117 305 Salvatore Ciccarelll 290 306 377 973 Write-Ins 5 13 19 $7 TOTAL 378 424 513 1.315 District B Councillor Blanks 64 35 75 174 Michael Gavpoian 194 154 141 489 Alexander Uazos 422 298 263 983 Write-ins 4 4 TOTAL 680 487 483 1,650 District C Councillor Blanks 103 97 77 277 Steehen E.Romanelli 408 384 229 1,021 David Caruso 1" 161 181 466 Write-ins 3 4 1 6 TOTAL 658 646 488 1.792 District D Councillor Blanks - 32 43 27 102 Camille Capdotti-Connolly 433 275 217 925 John H.Portz 367 411 287_ 1.065 Write-ins _ 2 1 4 7 TOTAL 834 730 535 2.099 School Committee Blanks 320 355 404 467 345 386 428 484 398 617� 602 410 5.216 Anthon P.Paoliilo 196 195 299 419 263 238 413 354 232 388 333 2791 3.609 Paul S.McGovern 142 161 198 333 21t 199 269 212 208 3281 300 2311 2.792 KeIIX Khozozian 156 217 235 296 217 163 336 212 171 3101 260 2011 2.774 Stephen Messina 159 169 216 319 236 208 240 295 231 382 346 2461 3.047 John 0.Quinn 160 175 187 205 1115 253 286 380 223 474' 346 2361 3.112 Wrile4ns 1 1 4 2 1 1 31 3 21 18 TOTAL 1.134 1.272 1,539 2,040 1.461 1.449 1.974 1.938 1,464 2.502 2.190 1.6051 20.568 ?ruste$s,Free Public Library I Blanks 412 489 612 719 578 540 691 756 520 893 817 5771 7.604 Jeannie M.Canso 278 297 347 453 314 333 458 444 364 617 527 3861 4.818 Gracemarie V.LeBlanc 224 2S1 303 442 300 301 431 387 305 5361 454 3261 4.260 Raya Stem 219 232 275 425 264 271 392 347 272 4531 382 3121 3.84a Wnteins 1 3 2 1 5 4 2 4 3 31 10 41 42 TOTAL 1.134 1.272 1,539 2,040 1.461 1.449 1,974 1.938 1.464- 2,5021 2.190 1.6051 20,.568 I I 64