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FINAL - Finance Committee Recommendations - ATM and STM 2023 for FY24 pdf file
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Source page 41
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
capital under this motion (Article 15 Motion 2) of this Annual Town Meeting, $1,173,077 will be funded from free
cash under Article 15 Motion 13 and $98,133 will be transferred from the Bolivar Pool Capital Project Fund under
Article 15 Motion 13. These three funding sources bring the total cost for the Library Roof and HVAC project to
$1,300,000.
Library Book Drop Replacement ($5,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is for the replacement of the library book drop. The library book drop allows for after-
hours returns of books and media. The old book drops are beginning to leak and increases the risk of damage to
the books or other materials stored inside. The new book drops will provide enhanced security and weatherproofing
to protect the materials dropped off until they are recovered by library staff.
Parks & Recreation
14ft Landscape Trailer ($10,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is for the purchase of a 14ft trailer. The life expectancy of these trailers is approximately
15 years, but the current trailer is nearly 25 years old. This replacement will also allow for easier and safer
transportation of some of the larger pieces of equipment used to maintain the Town’s fields.
Replace 60” Zero Turn Lawn Mower ($25,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is for the replacement of a 60” Zero Turn mower. This piece of equipment is used to
maintain the grass across Canton’s numerous green spaces, and the larger size allows for maximum efficiency. The
price listed includes the mower and associated grass catcher.
Redesign & Replace Crawford Field Irrigation ($16,500)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is for the redesign and replacement of the existing zones 1 through 7 of the Crawford
Field irrigation system (at the JFK School), so that it will cover the whole field. This is one of the more heavily used
fields and having hard ground because of the lack of irrigation causes unsafe playing conditions during dry periods .
Replace 2008 Ford 250 w/New ($60,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is to replace an existing 2008 Ford F-250 that is non-working, with a new Ford F-250 with
the Snow Plow attachments and lights. The 2008 truck has been repaired numerous times and needs to be
replaced for cost effectiveness, as repair costs exceed the value of the current truck.
Police Department
4 Police Cruiser Replacements, 2 Hybrid ($234,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request would continue the replacement cycle of cruiser vehicles for the Canton Police
Department. The aging cruisers have reached an age and mileage that make them no longer considered safe to
operate under police standards. The continued routine replacement of these vehicles will help ensure the efficiency
and safety of the police department’s cruiser fleet. In an effort to ensure the advancement of sustainability policies,
two of these cruisers will be hybrid vehicles, which have proven to be reliable in the roles they are used in.
Bullet Resistant Vests & Vest Carriers – 10 ($20,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request would allow the Canton Police Department to purchase needed replacement bullet
resistant vests and the related vest carriers. These vests are a vital piece of equipment for police officers as they
enter uncertain situations and the vests become less reliable as they age. This request for replacement bullet
resistant vests (and additional vests for new hires) along with vest carriers will help guarantee the safety of the
Town’s police officers as they protect the town.
Replace 12 Stationary Radar Guns ($36,700)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request would allow the replacement of antiquated radar guns that are fixed in police vehicles to
monitor traffic speeds. The ability to accurately monitor and capture traffic speeds of vehicles helps ensure public
safety on town roads and helps provide forensic evidence in cases where there are disputes.
41Source page 42
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Replace 50 Firearms ($40,600)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request would provide new firearms for fifty officers. The current firearms are approximately a
decade old and require replacement. In addition, the new firearms will be safer and easier to handle than the
currently issued weapons. The ammunition used by these new weapons will be less expensive to acquire than the
ammunition used by the current weapons with no loss in performance.
Property Maintenance
Replace HVAC System – Lower Level Memorial Hall ($45,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request would replace the current HVAC system that serves the lower level of Memorial Hall. This
request is a partial funding source for this $130,814 project with the remainder of the cost being paid for through a
grant of $85,814. The current system has exceeded its useful life and is becoming unreliable. This system will be
replaced by an electric heat pump using existing ductwork and will also save energy.
Kubota RTV Utility Vehicle for Pequitside ($1,339)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request would be toward the $21,000 request to purchase an RTV utility vehicle with heated cab
and dump body to help maintain the grounds of Pequitside Farm, which has 34 acres of conservation land and
trails. The small tractor that is currently used for this purpose is inadequate. This new vehicle will allow easier
year-round maintenance of the property. The remainder of the funding for purchasing this vehicle would be drawn
from the Pequitside Parking Lot Reconstruction Project funds ($19,661) through Article 15, Motion 14, of the
Annual Town Meeting Warrant.
Fire/CO Alarms & Detectors – Water/Sewer Garage 44 Pine Street ($50,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request would fund the installation of needed fire alarms, heat detectors, and carbon monoxide
detectors at the Water/Sewer garage facility at 44 Pine Street. These devices will help protect the building in
accordance with safety standards. These detectors will also be connected to the Town’s central alarm system to
allow faster response time in the case of an emergency.
Fire/CO Alarms & Detectors – Parks/Recreation Garage 87 Pine Street ($37,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request would fund the installation of needed fire alarms, heat detectors, and carbon monoxide
detectors at the Parks and Recreation garage facility at 87 Pine Street. These devices will help protect the offices
and open garage area of the building in accordance with safety standards. These detectors will also be connected
to the Town’s central alarm system to allow faster response time in the case of an emergency.
Engineering Design for Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) HVAC System at Senior Center ($26,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request will allow an engineering design to replace the current HVAC system at the Senior Center,
which has had a series of heating and cooling failures. The new system would allow better zoning of cooling and
heating needs through customizable thermostats in each area allowing one area to receive heat while another is
cooled and other adaptable interior climate features. This will improve the experience for all who use the center
and will likely improve safety during times of the year when the outside temperature is extremely hot or cold.
Public Works
New Ride–on Leaf Blower ($13,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request would allow the purchase of a new or current year ride-on leaf blower for the Department
of Public Works (DPW). The DPW manages a wide range of Town properties and this piece of equipment will serve
several divisions of the DPW including the Highway Division, the Cemetery Division, and the Forestry Division. This
new equipment will improve efficiency of seasonal clean-up efforts around Town.
Flail Boom Mower Attachment ($15,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is to purchase a flail arm attachment for the Multihog CX 75 Heavy Duty Tractor. The
Multihog Heavy Duty Tractor and other attachments was approved at ATM 22 for FY23. Supply issues forced a price
increase in the purchase price for this tractor. The flail arm attachment was not purchased in FY23 because of the
price increase, so it is being requested this year.
42Source page 43
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Paint Exterior of DPW Garage ($64,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request would allow the cleaning, pointing, and painting of the exterior block walls of the DPW
garage at 150 Bolivar Street, which have not been painted in over a decade, or two, depending on the facade. This
project will also include some sealing of the walls where appropriate. These repairs will help prevent further
damage due to weathering and fading and help maintain the garage.
Revere & Son Heritage Trust
Storage Shed for Museum – Reimburse Fund 142 ($24,746)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request would provide reimbursement for the necessary purchase of a pre-made storage shed
that the Revere & Son Heritage Trust requested, and the Select Board approved using an advance of up to $25,000
from Account 142 (the restaurant rental fees). As this funding was an advance, it will need to be reimbursed. The
Trust is asking that Town Meeting appropriate the funding for this reimbursement. If this is not approved, the Trust
would need to appropriate or raise the needed matching funds next year and deposit it in Account 142.
Website Redesign for Paulreveremuseum.org ($20,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request will allow a redesign of the current website for the Paul Revere Heritage Site. The current
website was not developed by professionals and is not up to the standards of many other similar historical
organizations in eastern Massachusetts. This project would involve a professional website builder to develop a
website that provides a better user experience and promotes the attractions of the site in a more efficient and
appealing manner.
Town Clerk
7 Poll Pads ($11,025)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request will allow the purchase of seven poll pad tablets, one additional device for each of the
Town’s seven voting precincts. These devices are used for voter check-in. An additional device for each precinct
would help mitigate long lines at polling stations at peak times and would likely provide some redu1ndancy should
any devices fail.
43Source page 44
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Article 15 - MOTION 3
MOVED: That One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be appropriated from the Fiscal Year 2024 tax
levy and other general revenues of the Town, for the Canton School Committee to expend for the
purpose of purchasing certain items of property set forth below for the School Department as follows:
FINCOM
AMOUNT
Building Repairs/Improvements
Replacement Art Wing Corridor Flooring – CHS $ 14,500
HVAC Maintenance – Districtwide 65,000
Replacement of 1st Floor Corridor Tiles – Hansen 11,190
Replacement of 1st Floor Corridor Tiles – JFK 11,316
K-1st Grade Corridor Painting – Luce 19,875
Innovation Lab Renovation CHS (Phase 3) 45,000
Replacement of Roof Top Heating Unit #3 – CHS 45,000
Replacement of Roof Top Unit and Cooling Unit – Library – Luce 38,000
Grounds Improvement
Landscaping & Grounds Improvement 15,177
Information Technology
Grade 4 & 5 Chromebooks (525)/Replacement Cycle – Districtwide 187,425
Teacher Pilot Devices – CHS 33,250
Security System Server Upgrade – CHS & GMS 45,570
Replacement of Classroom Phones 14,960
Touchview Boards (10) – Districtwide 30,130
Airtame Upgrades 9,875
Laptops for Unit E Members (Phase 2) 34,375
Program Improvements
Reclaim Rm. 154 as Classroom/Relocate Robotics to Rm. 157 30,000
AP Physics 2 Equipment – CHS 11,000
Performing Arts Wenger Platforms – CHS Auditorium – Districtwide 14,040
Technology Imac Upgrade (5) – Music/Theater Production – CHS 6,840
Replacement of Classroom Based Instruments (7) – Districtwide 14,497
Volleyball System Upgrade – CHS 14,283
Replace Indoor Basketball Hoops – JFK 50,000
Furniture & Fixtures
Visual Arts Replacement Furniture – Districtwide 12,697
Elementary Library Furniture Enhancements – Tech 35,000
Extraordinary Maintenance/Vehicle Replacement
Maintenance Department Truck – Districtwide 76,000
School Bus – Districtwide 115,000
________
GRAND TOTAL $1,000,000
The amounts listed above for particular acquisitions are not to be construed as individual
appropriations. The sums shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount
appropriated is one line item in the total sum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000). The Town Finance
Director and the Director of Finance and Operations for the School Department, acting jointly, are
hereby authorized to distribute such funds in such a manner as may be needed to accomplish the
foregoing list of purchases; provided, however, that each item contained in the list is procured and that
the excess funds are available because one or more items cost less than estimated and not because an
item intended to be procured is not so procured.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
44Source page 45
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Article 15 - MOTION 3
Building Repairs/Improvements
Replacement Art Wing Corridor Flooring – CHS ($14,500)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is to replace the existing flooring in the art wing corridor for Canton High School. The
existing flooring is aged and in need of replacement. Due to the age of the flooring, some of the adhesive is also
releasing, creating a tripping hazard.
HVAC Maintenance – Districtwide ($65,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request by the Canton School District is for heating coil replacements and materials necessary to
maintain the HVAC systems district-wide (six units in total). The heating coils are necessary in order to keep the
HVAC systems running appropriately and providing heat to the students.
Replacement of 1st Floor Corridor Tiles – Hansen ($11,190)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request by the Canton School District is purposed to replace the first-floor corridor tiles at the
Hansen Elementary School. The existing flooring is approximately 20 years old and the building’s settlement has
led to the tiles to shift, causing cracking and breaking of the tiles as well as releasing, causing tripping hazards.
Replacement of 1st Floor Corridor Tiles – JFK ($11,316)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request by the Canton School District is purposed to replace the first-floor corridor tiles at the JFK
Elementary School. The existing flooring is approximately 20 years old and the building’s settlement has led to the
tiles to shift, causing cracking and breaking of the tiles as well as releasing, causing tripping hazards.
K-1st Grade Corridor Painting – Luce ($19,875)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request by the Canton School District is purposed to remove existing paint and repaint the first
floor corridor walls in the Dean S. Luce Elementary school. The current paint is loose and peeling in areas where
faculty, students, and visitors are exposed to paint peels. This work will correct that issue.
Innovation Lab Renovation CHS (Phase 3) ($45,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is to support Phase 3 of the ongoing project for the Bulldog Innovation Lab at the Canton
High School. Some of the prices have increased since 2021 due to inflation and inventory constraints. These
particular funds are purposed to facilitate the purchase of furniture, updated tools, technology, and other related
equipment to complete the update of the metal and wood shops into the aforementioned innovation lab.
Replacement of Roof Top Heating Unit #3 – CHS ($45,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is purposed to replace an existing heating and cooling unit above the Canton High School.
The existing unit needs replacement and changing federal regulations (effective January 1st, 2023) have increased
the minimum ratings for new units.
Replacement of Roof Top Unit and Cooling Unit – Library – Luce ($38,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is purposed to replace the existing heating and cooling unit above the Dean S. Luce
Elementary school. The existing unit needs replacement and changing federal regulations (effective January 1st,
2023) have increased the minimum ratings for new units.
45Source page 46
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Grounds Improvement
Landscaping & Grounds Improvement ($15,177)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is purposed to plant shade trees at the Dean S. Luce Elementary School as well as
plantings in front of Hansen, Rodman, and JFK. The plantings at Hansen, Rodman, and JFK will improve the overall
look and feel of the entrances of school buildings. The shade trees at the Dean S. Luce Elementary School are
needed to increase safety and comfort for students in the classrooms that the trees will be planted in front of. As
the classrooms do not have air conditioning, the rooms can get hot, particularly at the beginning and end of the
school year when the sun is shining directly into the classrooms. These shade trees will assist in mitigating that
issue.
Information Technology
Grade 4 & 5 Chromebooks/Replacement Cycle – Districtwide ($187,425)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is purposed to provide Chromebooks to incoming 3rd and 5th grade students district wide
as a continuation of the 1:1 device initiative for the district’s students. Chromebooks are kept in a 2-year rotation,
with students receiving a device in 3rd grade and maintaining through 5th. Chromebooks have a life cycle of
approximately 4 years, resulting in each Chromebook being used by two students.
Teacher Pilot Devices – CHS ($33,250)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is to replace the Canton High School pilot devices purchased in the 2018-2019 school
year. The prior pilot devices were both HP 360 and refurbished Microsoft Surfaces. These devices have come to the
end of their useful life. The 30 replacement devices will be Acer Spin 4 laptops.
Security System Server Upgrade – CHS & GMS ($45,570)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request will upgrade the security system servers, which are currently five years old. The existing
servers store 10-15 days of footage – a reduction from when it was installed due to additional cameras that have
been put into operation since the initial installation. There have been several instances for footage request by CPD
and SROs that have been beyond the timeline of what can be recorded. Recommended storage is 30 days, which
the new servers will be able to store.
Replacement of Classroom Phones ($14,960)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request will continue the phaseout of older 5403 model classroom phones, upgrading the phones
to the Mitel 6905 phones. The existing phones have display issues and concerns with limitations where classroom
phones can call both internally and externally from the buildings.
Touchview Boards – Districtwide ($30,130)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request will replace existing smart projectors that are approaching end of life with new TouchView
smart boards (a superior technology that the district has experience with). The existing smart projectors are not
only approaching end of life, but often cannot be serviced when needed due to a lack of part availability. The new
boards also have a longer useful life than the projectors they are replacing.
Airtame Upgrades ($9,875)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request will facilitate the purchase of 25 wireless HDMI adapters. The version the district is
currently using has reached end of service and need to be upgraded for improved performance and stability.
Laptops for Unit E Members (Phase 2) ($34,375)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request will purchase laptops for Unit E staff members, who work directly with both students and
staff, work with students individually & in small groups, support classroom teachers in the classroom, and maintain
communication with related stakeholders. During COVID, these staff members were provided Chromebooks and it
was discovered that they need more robust devices to effectively participate in their positions.
46Source page 47
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Program Improvements
Reclaim Rm. 154 as Classroom/Relocate Robotics to Rm. 157 ($30,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is to complete a multiple year project to reclaim classroom 154 as a physics classroom
and relocate the robotics program from that room to a nearby room to allow more efficient and safer use of both
spaces. This was partially funded from the previous requests, and a majority of what will be funded from this final
request is for wall-mounted cabinetry, rolling carts, and cabinets and maker-station tables.
AP Physics 2 Equipment – CHS ($11,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is for the purchase of supplies for teaching the AP Physics 2 course. Canton High School
started a new course, AP Physics 2, during the 2018-19 school year. This course will benefit from additional
teaching and learning supplies to allow students to have first-hand experiences, perform authentic inquiry-based
experiments, and collect data with additional equipment.
Performing Arts Wenger Platforms – CHS Auditorium – Districtwide ($14,040)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request would replace the current staging material in favor of a more efficient and safe system.
Staging is used for concerts, shows, the eighth grade graduation, and other events throughout the year. The
current system is very difficult to move and is extremely heavy, which poses a safety issue for custodians that
need to move it. It is also causing damage to floors when pushed.
Technology iMac Upgrade – Music/Theater Production – CHS ($6,840)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is to replace and upgrade old iMacs in the room 155 lab at the Canton High School. Some
of these devices are from 2013 and are no longer supported. The upgrade would allow Canton High School to
maintain current class sizes for Music Technology and Theater Production and Design courses.
Replacement of Classroom Based Instruments – Districtwide ($14,497)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is for additional music instruments to try to keep up with an expanding program. Many
instruments are loaned to families that cannot afford to rent an instrument, and the need is increasing every year.
Also, for large instruments, the rented instrument is used at home and the school instrument is used in school due
to transportation restrictions on contracted school busses. Without enough in-school instruments, families would
need to rent one instrument for home and another to use at school. These instruments are essential to ensuring
equal access to the music curriculum.
Volleyball System Upgrade – CHS ($14,283)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is to purchase two new volleyball standards systems for use in the main gym at the
Canton High School, to standardize equipment. Each system includes new floor sleeves as well as two new netting
systems.
Replace Indoor Basketball Hoops – JFK ($50,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is to replace the existing basketball hoops in the gymnasium at the JFK Elementary
School. The current basketball hoops at the JFK are original to the school. They are outdated and are in need of
replacement. The new hoops will have new adjustable backboards that can change height, unlike the existing
equipment. This replacement will ensure that basketball programs will have adjustable age-appropriate equipment.
Furniture & Fixtures
Visual Arts Replacement Furniture – Districtwide ($12,697)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is to replace furniture for the visual arts classrooms in K through 12. This includes
unrepairable and unsafe stools, as well as damaged ceramic work tables, and paper cutters. It also includes seating
to accommodate students on 504 plans. This purchase would allow better safety and improved access to the
curriculum for students.
Elementary Library Furniture Enhancements – Tech ($35,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This capital request is to replace Library furniture at the elementary schools. This furniture includes seating,
bookshelves, book bins, and teacher desks for the digital learning specialists who teach out of the library. Most of
this furniture hasn’t been updated in many years and is due for replacement.
47Source page 48
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Extraordinary Maintenance/Vehicle Replacements
Maintenance Department Truck – Districtwide ($76,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
The cash capital request is for a new vehicle to the fleet. This is a Ford F-350 that will be equipped with a plow and
utility body. This new vehicle will be used by the district wide HVAC technician that does all the HVAC Maintenance
for the schools, which will improve efficiency and allow safe transport of equipment.
School Bus – Districtwide ($115,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This cash capital request is to replace an existing school bus that is aging and in poor condition. Repair costs
continue to rise and this bus needs replacement. The Town having a small fleet of its own buses, saves the district
significant costs by reducing the need to outsource for transportation.
Article 15 – MOTION 4
MOVED: That One Hundred Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($102,500) be appropriated to
be spent by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the
Select Board to pay for the cost of purchasing 50 Police Department tasers and to meet said
appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of One Hundred
Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($102,500). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued
pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 4
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
Replace Tasers – 50 ($102,500)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This debt capital request would replace the Tasers currently used by the Canton Police Department with new
devices and supporting accessories. The current Tasers are now obsolete and are no longer supported by the
company. Tasers are an important non-lethal tool that police need to rely on to protect themselves and the public
as they interact with the community through law enforcement.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Article 15 – MOTION 5
MOVED: That Ninety Thousand Dollars ($90,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance
Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public
Works Superintendent and the Select Board to pay for the costs of purchasing a new Ford F-350 Pick-
Up Truck with Plow and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select
Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as
may be, the sum of Ninety Thousand Dollars ($90,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued
pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 5
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
For F-350 Pick-Up Truck with Plow ($90,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This debt capital request is to purchase a new F-350 Pick-Up Truck with plow. The Department of Public Works fleet
of plow trucks is aging and often uses less-capable F-150 trucks for plowing jobs. The purchase of a new truck will
prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the smaller vehicles and provide enhanced flexibility to the DPW fleet both
during storms and throughout the year.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
48Source page 49
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Article 15 – MOTION 6
MOVED: That Three Hundred Twenty Four Thousand Dollars ($324,000) be appropriated to be
spent by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the
Department of Public Works Superintendent and the Select Board to pay for the costs of purchasing a
6-wheel dump truck and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select
Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as
may be, the sum of Three Hundred Twenty Four Thousand Dollars ($324,000). It is the intent that the
bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 6
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
6-Wheel Dump Truck ($324,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This debt capital request is to purchase a new 6-wheel dump truck to be used by Public Works, a new addition to
the fleet, to haul material to and from street and drain projects. It will also be equipped with a 10-foot plow to
assist with plowing in the winters.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Article 15 – MOTION 7
MOVED: That Ninety Thousand Dollars ($90,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance
Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public
Works Superintendent and the Select Board to pay for the costs of purchasing an F350 Super Duty 4WD
pickup truck and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board
be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be,
the sum of Ninety Thousand Dollars ($90,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued
pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 7
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
F-350 Super Duty 4WD Pickup Truck ($90,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This debt capital request is to replace Truck #14, a 2006 Ford F-250, with a new or current model year Ford Super
Duty F-350 4WD equipped with a Flat Bed Body and an 8-foot snow plow assembly. Truck #14 is a Highway
Division everyday vehicle used to carry equipment and supplies to the job site. It has exceeded its useful life and
needs to be replaced.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
49Source page 50
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Article 15 – MOTION 8
MOVED: That Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Dollars ($270,000) be appropriated to be spent
by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the
Department of Public Works Superintendent and the Select Board to pay for the costs of Pleasant Circle
Storm Drain improvements and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the
Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling
authority as may be, the sum of Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Dollars ($270,000). It is the intent
that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 8
Pleasant Circle Storm Drains ($270,000)
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
The Capital Planning Committee opposes this request 1-3-0.
There are questions surrounding what party is liable for the work required on Pleasant Circle for storm water. The
water issue at the end of Pleasant Circle is not new and a prior owner at the end of the street had a solution in-
place prior to the property transacting, indicating that it was a known issue. The CPC is not in possession of a legal
opinion of the responsible party for putting a solution in-place. There has been no debate on whether a solution
needs to be put in place. The “no” vote is solely due to wanting a legal opinion on who the responsible party is to
enact a solution for the storm water. If the legal opinion suggested it is the Town’s responsibility, the vote would
be “yes.”
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this motion to make
needed improvements to the storm drains at Pleasant Circle as a needed measure to ensure the Town meets its
legal responsibilities regarding storm water runoff and in order to protect the environment surrounding Reservoir
Pond and the water within it. This $270,000 debt capital project dovetails with Article 21 of the 2023 Annual Town
Meeting warrant, which would authorize the Select Board to pursue the needed permanent and temporary
easements to achieve the improvements authorized in this motion. It is a Town responsibility to ensure that storm
water infrastructure is properly built so that runoff does not flood private property and that untreated storm water
does not pollute Reservoir Pond or the greater Neponset River Watershed.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Article 15 – MOTION 9
MOVED: That Five Hundred Five Thousand Dollars ($505,000) be appropriated to be spent by
the Fire Chief with the approval of the Select Board for the purpose of replacing Ambulance 1 and to
meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to
borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Five
Hundred Five Thousand Dollars ($505,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant
to this authority be general obligations of the Town but it is expected that they shall be repaid in the
first instance from the Ambulance Receipts Reserved for Appropriation Account.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 9
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
Replace Ambulance 1 ($505,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This ambulance enterprise fund debt capital request is to purchase a replacement ambulance for Ambulance 1.
Ambulance 1 is a 2016 Ford F-550 with approximately 100,000 miles. Ambulance 1 has surpassed its anticipated
service life and needs to be replaced due to increased maintenance costs and reliability. If approved, Ambulance 1
will become the back-up ambulance and replace the current back-up Ambulance, Ambulance 3. Ambulance 3 will
be traded in when the new ambulance is purchased.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
50Source page 51
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Article 15 – MOTION 10
MOVED: That Six Hundred Thousand Dollars ($600,000) be appropriated to be spent by the
Department of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Select Board for the purpose of
supplementing the Water System Improvement Construction Contract 3 and to meet said appropriation
the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Six Hundred Thousand Dollars
($600,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general
obligations of the Town but it is expected that they shall be repaid in the first instance from Water
Receipts.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 10
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
Supplementing Water System Improvement Construction Contract 3 ($600,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This request for $600,000 of water enterprise debt capital is needed to supplement the funding that was already
approved at ATM 2023 in the amount of $3,100,000 for the construction of Contract 3. Contract 3 is to replace
water mains, house service connections, hydrants, and hydrant connections on Randolph Street, Randolph Terrace,
Old Randolph Street, and Bolivar Street. It also includes connecting the Randolph Street Water Tank to the existing
16-inch water main on Randolph Street. The current overall Contract 3 cost is estimated at $3,640,170.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Article 15 – MOTION 11
MOVED: That Four Hundred Twenty Thousand Dollars ($420,000) be appropriated to be spent
by the Department of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Select Board for the
purpose of replacing a 6” water main on Revere Court with an 8” water main and to meet said
appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Four Hundred
Twenty Thousand Dollars ($420,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this
authority be general obligations of the Town but it is expected that they shall be repaid in the first
instance from Water Receipts.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 11
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
Revere Court 6” Water Main Replacement with 8” Water Main ($420,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This request for $420,000 of water enterprise debt capital would be used to replace the existing 6-inch water main
on Revere Court with an 8-inch water main. The overall project will include a new bridge crossing, water service
renewals, and hydrant replacement. MassDOT is replacing the Revere Court Bridge, which crosses the East Branch
of the Neponset River, also known as the Canton River. This project is scheduled for 2024. The existing water main
needs to be replaced due to its age, the insufficient fire protection flow it provides, and the shared service lines
that need to be remedied. Since the bridge crossing needs to be removed and reset MassDOT, will be included in
the replacement of the entire main and services on Revere Court as part of the Bridge Project. MassDOT will pay
for the river crossing and the Town will pay for the balance. This request will ensure that the water main
replacement will better align with the state project to replace the bridge. ATM Article 22 authorizes the Select
Board to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain the title in fee or the necessary permanent or temporary
easements and/or right of entry takings for this water main replacement project.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
51Source page 52
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Article 15 – MOTION 12
MOVED: That Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000) be appropriated to be spent by the
Department of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Select Board for the purpose of
Phase 1 Sewer Inflow/Infiltration Rehabilitation and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer
with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any
other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000). It is the
intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town
but it is expected that they shall be repaid in the first instance from Sewer Receipts.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 12
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
Phase 1 Sewer Inflow/Infiltration Rehabilitation ($400,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This request is for $400,000 of sewer enterprise debt capital to be paid for through sewer retained earnings and it
would partially pay for phase one of this sewer rehabilitation project. The total cost of the project is estimated at
$1,600,000. An MWRA grant of $1,200,000 will pay for most of the project cost. The project includes Cast-in-Place
pipe (CIPP) lining, cementitious lining of manholes, and the sealing of manhole chimneys. The work will be done in
Flow Meter Area 27 covering the Pleasant Garden, Pleasant Circle, Oak Road, and Curtis Road neighborhoods.
Sewer flow metering and CCTV inspections of various sanitary sewer mains was done in 2021 and 2022. The study
identified several areas where Inflow and Infiltration is needed. Using Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection metrics, Meter Area 27 ranked as the most cost-effective areas for rehabilitation. Resolving these inflows
or infiltrations of the Town’s sewer system will prevent costs related to this water being sent to sewer treatment
facilities and the associated MWRA costs for that additional sewer water flow.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Article 15 - MOTION 13
MOVED: That One Million Two Hundred Seventy-One Thousand Town Hundred Ten Dollars
($1,271,210) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement
Officer) with the approval of the Building Renovations Committee, the Select Board and the Library
Board of Trustees for the purpose of improvements/replacements of the Library Roof and HVAC and to
meet said appropriation One Million One Hundred Seventy Three Thousand Seventy Seven Dollars
($1,173,077) be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town
and that Ninety Eight Thousand One Hundred Thirty Three Dollars ($98,133) also be transferred from
surplus funds in the Bolivar Pool Capital Project Fund #43002-58900-BPOOL into the Library Roof /
HVAC capital project account.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 - MOTION 13
Library Roof & HVAC Replacements ($1,271,210)
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
The Capital Planning Committee unanimously supports making the needed replacements and repairs to the library
as presented in this article but had some concerns regarding the cost projections for the project and whether there
are sufficient contingency funds available. It recommended that, in addition to the agreed upon funding sources,
the proposed debt capital funds to be expended on the Department of Elder and Human Services (DEHS) be added
to this project instead. The currently proposed funding sources for this project would be divided between cash
capital, use of the Bolivar Pool project surplus, and cash reserves as noted in the motion, with some unexpended
funds allocated for the library roof at the last Annual Town Meeting in 2022 also being available. Given the
uncertainty of the scope and scale of repairs needed to repair the library roof and HVAC system, there are some
concerns about the scope of the work needed, the solutions to fix it, and the cost of those repairs. Not fixing the
roof of the library could result in greater damage to the library building and potentially cause damage to the
contents within and pose safety hazards but it is important to get it right.
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: There are three funding sources for the improvements/replacements of
the Library Roof and HVAC project: $28,790 will be funded through cash capital under Article 15 Motion 2 of this
Annual Town Meeting, $1,173,077 will be funded from free cash under Article 15 Motion 13 and $98,133 will be
transferred from the Bolivar Pool Capital Project Fund under Article 15 Motion 13. These three funding sources
bring the total cost for the Library Roof and HVAC project to $1,300,000.
52Source page 53
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
The Finance Committee unanimously supports making the needed replacements and repairs to the library as
presented in this article contingent upon better cost estimates that are expected to be available before or at the
Annual Town Meeting. The Finance Committee will revisit the cost figures at that future time to make a more
definitive recommendation if changes warrant such action. This is a complex but necessary project and the cost of
this project, and the funding for it, is still being determined at the time of printing. The currently proposed funding
sources for this project would be divided between cash capital, use of the Bolivar Pool project surplus, and cash
reserves as noted in the motion. The project would not currently require any borrowing and some additional funds
would be available, if needed, from the unexpended funds allocated for the library roof at the last Annual Town
Meeting in 2022. The Town has the capacity to pay for this project as currently estimated through cash sources
and the project is eligible for Bolivar Pool surplus funds due to it being a comparable capital project under
applicable laws. Not fixing the roof of the library could result in greater damage to the library building and
potentially cause damage to the contents within and pose safety hazards. The Town has a strong investment in
our public library and these replacements and repairs would help preserve those public assets.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Article 15 – MOTION 14
MOVED: That Nineteen Thousand Six Hundred Sixty One Dollars ($19,661) be transferred from
surplus funds in the Pequitside Farm Parking Reconstruction Project Fund (#43905-58400-B2004) to
supplement the purchase of a Kubota RTV Utility Vehicle for Pequitside Farm under ATM 2023 Article
15 Motion 2.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 MOTION 14
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
Kubota RTV Utility Vehicle for Pequitside Farm ($19,661)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
The Kubota RTV Utility Vehicle will be funded through two sources of funding: $1,339 under Article 15 Motion 2
and $19,661 under Article 15 Motion 14. This brings the total funding for the Kubota RTV Utility Vehicle to
$21,000. This capital request is purposed to purchase a Kubota RTV Utility Vehicle for Pequitside, primarily for
trash pickup and other similar duties. Currently, town employees are utilizing a tractor that neither has a cab nor a
bed/trunk, so trash is balanced on the hood while employees transport it after collecting. This is potentially a safety
issue and is additionally problematic in the winter and during inclement weather. The new fleet addition would
resolve these issues, both due to the cab that the Kubota has as well as the bed in the back that will allow for
hauling of trash and other items.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
Article 15 - MOTION 15
MOVED: That Fifty Five Thousand Dollars ($55,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance
Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public
Works Superintendent and the Select Board for the purpose of purchasing a Ford Explorer Hybrid and
to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to
borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Fifty
Five Thousand Dollars ($55,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this
authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 - MOTION 15
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
Ford Explorer Hybrid – Storm Water Manager / Engineering ($55,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This debt capital request would provide a vehicle for the newly hired Storm Water Manager and it would also be
used by the Engineering Department. The vehicle would be a new addition to the Department of Public Works
(DPW) fleet. It will be used to inspect storm water best management practices, such as checking drains, basins,
and worksite storm water controls. As a hybrid vehicle, it will also promote “green” technologies.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
53Source page 54
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Article 15 – MOTION 16
MOVED: That Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Dollars ($270,000) be appropriated to be spent
by the School Committee to pay for the cost of purchasing unit ventilators for the John F. Kennedy
Elementary School and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select
Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as
may be, the sum of Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Dollars ($270,000). It is the intent that the bonds
and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 16
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
Unit Ventilators – JFK School ($270,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This debt capital project would allow the schools to replace unit ventilators at the JFK School with new equipment.
While the unit ventilators would be used for heating and ventilation, there are some parts included that could allow
an upgrade to air conditioning in the future. The current ventilators are original to the school and require costly
maintenance and parts replacements. Replacing these unit ventilators will help improve air quality in the school
and make the building a safer and more comfortable learning environment.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Article 15 – MOTION 17
MOVED: That Two Hundred Seventy Five Thousand Dollars ($275,000) be appropriated to be
spent by the School Committee to pay for the cost of engineering designer services for masonry repairs
of the Rodman Building and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the
Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling
authority as may be, the sum of Two Hundred Seventy Five Thousand Dollars ($275,000). It is the
intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 17
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
Engineering Designer Services – Masonry Repair Rodman Building ($275,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This debt capital request would be used by the schools to pay for engineering designer services to advance a
masonry repair project for the Rodman Building. The mortar joints on the exterior of the building have been
degrading and water leakage has begun. This project will ensure that the building is safe and it would prevent
damage to the building and the contents within from water infiltration by finding the engineering solutions to repair
the masonry and stop the leaking.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
54Source page 55
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Article 15 – MOTION 18
MOVED: That Eighty Three Thousand Dollars ($83,000) be appropriated to be spent by the
Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of
Public Works Superintendent and the Select Board for the purposes of various water capital projects as
set forth below and to meet said appropriation Eighty Three Thousand Dollars ($83,000) be transferred
from water enterprise surplus (retained earnings).
FINCOM
RECOMMENDATIONS AMOUNT
Replace 2008 Ford F-150 $43,000
Replace 2002 Truck #38 Air Compressor with Current Model 40,000
TOTAL $83,000
The sums shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount to be appropriated is
one line item in the total amount of Eighty Three Thousand Dollars ($83,000). The Finance Director
and the Town Administrator, acting jointly, are hereby authorized to distribute such funds in such
manner as may be needed to accomplish the foregoing list of projects; provided, however, that each
project contained in the list set forth above is undertaken and that any excess funds are available
because one or more of the listed projects cost less than was estimated and not because a project
intended to be undertaken is not so undertaken.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 18
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSIONS:
Replace 2008 Ford F-150 ($43,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This request to be drawn from the retained earnings in the Water Enterprise Fund will allow the purchase of a
replacement vehicle for the 2008 Ford F-150, known as Truck 2. This old vehicle, which has over 100,000 miles on
it and has reached its recommended replacement age and mileage, would be replaced by a Ford F-150 and would
be used by the Water Treatment Tech to collect their weekly water samples and transport them for lab testing.
Having a dependable vehicle will help ensure the efficiency of this important water testing duty.
Replace 2002 Truck #38 Air Compressor with Current Model ($40,000)
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
This request to be drawn from the retained earnings in the Water Enterprise Fund will allow the purchase of a
replacement vehicle for the 2002 portable air compressor, known as Truck 38. This compressor is used during
water service repairs, including leaks and main breaks, or other water related digging projects. As this vehicle is
over twenty years old, it has exceeded the recommended replacement time of ten years. This new portable air
compressor will help keep water service repairs efficient.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Article 15 – MOTION 19
MOVED: That Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($250,000) be appropriated to be allocated
under the authority of the Capital Planning Committee and the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief
Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Select Board for the contingency funding purpose of
paying for costs that are higher than the budgeted amounts for any items included in this Article 15,
with the intent to provide said funding in the order formally requested until the funds are exhausted,
and to meet said appropriation of Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($250,000) by transfer from
Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of Town into a Capital Project Contingency
account.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
55Source page 56
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Article 15 – MOTION 19
Capital Contingency ($250,000)
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
The Capital Planning Committee supports this request 4-0-0.
The proposed capital contingency request is purposed to finance cost overruns that have been prevalent in the last
few years due to inventory constraints in conjunction with timing differentials between when capital requests are
first quoted and submitted and when they are approved and can thus be purchased. Over the last few years, this
has caused departments to either be unable to purchase approved requests (for example, a vehicle) or to find
other ways to finance the difference, for instance through cutting other operating costs.
FINANCE DISCUSSION:
This request would appropriate $250,000 to be available and transferred from cash reserves into a Capital Project
Contingency account. In this inflationary period, the cost of many items and services have been rising. As there is
usually only one Town Meeting per year the funding authorized by Town Meeting for capital projects is not always
enough by the time the requested item or service is procured. As Article 15 includes many requests that may be
subject to inflationary pressures, this fund would authorize the Capital Planning Committee and the Finance
Director to utilize these undesignated capital contingency funds to any approved project under Article 15 of this
year’s Warrant that proves to be underfunded. The Select Board would also need to approve such a use of these
funds. The existence of this capital contingency allocation may be the difference between a project being completed
or having to wait another year to seek further funding. These funds will help make sure that the capital requests
that Town Meeting approves are indeed completed.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Article 15 – MOTION 20
MOVED: That One Hundred Thirty-Three Thousand Dollars ($133,000) be appropriated to be
spent by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the
Select Board to pay for the cost of purchasing an Elder and Human Services bus and to meet said
appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of One Hundred
Thirty-Three Thousand Dollars ($133,000) and to issue bonds or notes of the Town therefore. It is the
intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 15 – MOTION 20
Replace 212 Bus #4 w/2023 Starcraft Bus ($133,000)
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSION:
The Capital Planning Committee unanimously opposed replacing a 2012 Department of Elder and Human Services
(DEHS) bus (Bus#4) with a new Starcraft bus using $133,000 in debt capital funds. The current bus does not have
sufficient mileage to be seen as past its useful life and could potentially be repaired for now. The CPC recognizes
that these busses are used to transport older residents and others served by the DEHS to essential destinations
and that these busses must be reliable to serve the important functions that they do. However, this bus is
serviceable and could wait a year for replacement to allow these debt capital funds to be used for the Library Roof
and HVAC System or some other more pressing purpose.
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION:
The Finance Committee unanimously supports replacing a 2012 Department of Elder and Human Services (DEHS)
bus (Bus#4) with a new Starcraft bus using $133,000 in debt capital funds. The current bus that this new bus
would replace is not suitable for its current use, as it has performance issues that would require cost ineffective
repairs and it is not comfortable for those who need to use it, many of whom are elders or others with special
needs. As these busses are used to transport older residents and others served by the DEHS to essential
destinations, these busses must be reliable to serve the important functions that they do. Supply chain issues have
caused delays in obtaining many items in recent years and there is currently a lengthy wait for purchasing such a
bus. Authorizing this purchase now, will allow this bus to be obtained before the current bus fails. As this is a debt
capital purchase, funds will not be required until the purchase is completed.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
56Source page 57
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
ARTICLE 16
APPROVAL OF FUNDING FOR THE ANNUAL 4TH OF JULY COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Article 16 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, borrow pursuant to any applicable statute,
transfer from available funds or transfer from Free Cash, a sum of money to be expended by the Director of Parks
and Recreation, with the approval of the Select Board, for the purpose of funding the annual July 4th community
celebration in 2023; or to take any other action related thereto with the intent these funds be available in FY23 in
anticipation of July 4, 2023.
Select Board for the Canton Recreation Commission
MOVED: That the sum of Thirty Five Thousand Dollars ($35,000) be transferred from Free Cash
(Undesignated Fund Balance) to be expended by the Director of Parks and Recreation with the approval
of the Select Board, for the July 4th community celebration in 2023 with the intent that said funds shall
be available in FY23 in anticipation of July 4, 2023.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports the use of Free Cash in the amount of $35,000 to be expended
by the Director of Parks and Recreation for the annual 4th of July community celebration. The July 4th community
celebration is scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 2, 2023.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 17
RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
Article 17 To see if the Town will vote to adopt and approve the recommendations of the Community Preservation
Committee for Fiscal Year 2024 and to see if the Town will vote to implement such recommendations by
appropriating a sum or sums of money from the Community Preservation Fund established pursuant to Chapter
44B of the General Laws, or otherwise to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or borrow pursuant to
any applicable statute a sum of money for such purposes; to authorize the Select Board, with the approval of the
Community Preservation Committee, to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain such real property and
property interests in the name of, or enforceable by the Town, including perpetual affordable housing restrictions,
conservation restrictions and historical preservation restrictions, and to dispose of Town property or portions
thereof or interests therein, all as may be required by the Community Preservation Act and Chapter 184 of the
General Laws and as may be necessary or appropriate to carry out the recommendations of the Community
Preservation Committee; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Community Preservation Committee
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 1
MOVED: That the sum of Forty-Five Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Six Dollars ($45,196) be
appropriated from the Fiscal Year 2024 Community Preservation Fund revenues for the administrative
expenses of the Community Preservation Committee in Fiscal Year 2024 provided, however, that any
amounts not used during the year for administrative expenses shall revert back to the CPA
Undesignated Fund Balance at the end of Fiscal Year 2024.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted $45,196 to recommend this annual motion to appropriate funds
from the Community Preservation Act (CPA) revenues amounting to $45,196 to support the administration and
operating expenses of the Canton Community Preservation Committee CCPC).
Under the Community Preservation Act, the Town may appropriate up to five percent of the total funds collected
through the local CPA surcharge, as well as State matching funds, to be used for the Committee’s administrative
and operating expenses. The sum of $45,196 reflects five percent of the total estimated receipts for Fiscal Year
2024. Any amounts not used during the fiscal year for legally permitted administrative expenses or operating
expenses will roll over to the general CPA fund at the end of Fiscal Year 2024.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
57Source page 58
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 2
MOVED: That the following fund transfers be hereby made in FISCAL YEAR 2024 as
recommended by the Community Preservation Committee:
A. Ninety Thousand Three Hundred Ninety Three Dollars ($90,393) be transferred from FISCAL
YEAR 2024 receipts of the Community Preservation Fund into the Fund Balance Reserved for
Open Space/Recreation;
B. Ninety Thousand Three Hundred Ninety Three Dollars ($90,393) be transferred from FISCAL
YEAR 2024 receipts of the Community Preservation Fund into the Fund Balance Reserved for
Historic Resources;
C. Ninety Thousand Three Hundred Ninety Three Dollars ($90,393) be transferred from FISCAL
YEAR 2024 receipts of the Community Preservation Fund into the Fund Balance Reserved for
Community Housing.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted $90,393 to recommend this annual motion to appropriate funds
from the Community Preservation Act (CPA) revenues amounting to $90.393 to support each of the 3 areas of
Open Space/Recreation, Historic Resources, and Community Housing of the Canton Community Preservation
Committee CCPC). Under the Community Preservation Act, the Town may appropriate up to ten percent of the total
funds collected through the local CPA surcharge, as well as State matching funds, to be used for the Committee’s
administrative and operating expenses. The sum of $90,393 for each of 3 designated areas reflects ten percent of
the total estimated receipts for Fiscal Year 2024. Any amounts not used during the fiscal year for legally permitted
administrative expenses or operating expenses will roll over to the general CPA fund at the end of Fiscal Year 2024.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 3
MOVED: That the sum of Two Hundred Thirty-Two Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety Dollars
($232,990) be appropriated from the Community Preservation Fund revenues to be spent for Open
Space purposes by the Chief Procurement Officer with the approval of the Select Board for debt service
and expenses associated with the Open Space land acquisition of the Paul Revere Heritage Site for the
Fiscal Year 2024.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted $232,990 to support this debt payment motion to allow the
servicing of the 10-year, $1,849,000 bond for the purchase of a portion of the Paul Revere Heritage Site, approved
by the Annual Town Meeting in 2015, and the associated land improvement approved by the Annual Town Meeting
in 2018. This motion authorizes the Town to make the fifth payment on the bond in Fiscal Year 2024, amounting
to the sum of $232,990.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
58Source page 59
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
ARTICLE 18
APPROPRIATION TO INCREASE SPECIAL EDUCATION RESERVE ACCOUNT
Article 18 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or transfer from any available funds or borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum of money in order to increase any Special Education Reserve Account or
to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the School Committee
MOVED: That the sum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be appropriated to the Special
Education Reserve Account (#250) and to meet this appropriation, One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be
transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted unanimously to support the transfer of $1,000,000 from Free Cash
to the Special Education Reserve Account. The School Department has worked to offer increased special education
in district and to plan for the needs of students who require out of district placements. Special education costs are
on the rise and are unpredictable, so this reserve account is intended to offset unexpected costs for special
education needs that emerge during the school year. This will allow the School Department to cover the
unexpected costs, the out of district tuition and transportation costs, and still have levels of enhancement to
benefit the students and staff.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 19
APPROPRIATION TO INCREASE CAPITAL STABILIZATION ACCOUNT
Article 19 To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate or transfer from any available funds or borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum of money in order to increase the Capital Stabilization Account, or to
take any action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the sum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be appropriated to the Capital
Stabilization Account (#801) and to meet this appropriation, One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be
transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously voted to support the transfer of $1,000,000 from Free Cash
to the Capital Stabilization Fund for future capital projects. Annual Town Meeting 2022 established the Capital
Stabilization Fund with a transfer of $1,000,000 from Free Cash. Stabilization Funds provide the town with the
opportunity to set aside funds for specific uses. During the discussion of this Article, it was mentioned that this
funding could help to offset the future debt of the new Galvin Middle School renovation/rebuild project. This
account will require a 2/3 vote of Town Meeting for approval.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
59Source page 60
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
ARTICLE 20
27 NEPONSET STREET LAND ACQUISITION
Article 20 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Select Board to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent
domain, for general municipal purposes, the title in fee and/or the necessary easements in order to construct a
parking lot on the land in Canton at 27 Neponset Street (Canton Assessors Map No. 26, Parcel No. 25); to see if
the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or transfer from available
funds, a sum of money for such purposes; or take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the Select Board be authorized to purchase the title in fee and/or necessary
easements at 27 Neponset Street (Canton Assessors Map No. 26, Parcel No. 25) for the purpose of
constructing a parking lot and that Three Hundred Twenty Thousand Dollars ($320,000) be
appropriated for such purpose to be spent by the Select Board and to meet said appropriation that
Three Hundred Twenty Thousand Dollars ($320,000) be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated
Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-1
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted 7-0-1 to support the acquisition of 27 Neponset Street, Canton, MA
for $320,000. Currently, the Town of Canton owns 25 Neponset Street. If the Town is successful in purchasing 27
Neponset Street, the Town will convert both of these parcels into a much needed parking lot with close proximity to
the Town Center. The assessed value of 27 Neponset Street is $353,000, $33,000 above the estimated acquisition
price. Currently, there is no funding provided for design or construction of the proposed parking lot.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 21
ACQUIRE PERMANENT AND TEMPORARY EASEMENTS OVER 72 PLEASANT CIRCLE AND 64 OAK ROAD
FOR DRAINAGE INFRASTRUCTURE AND IMPROVEMENTS
Article 21 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Select Board to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent
domain permanent and temporary easements over and under the parcels of real property at 72 Pleasant Circle,
Assessors Map 61, Parcel 86, and 64 Oak Road, Assessors Map 61, Parcel 87, for general municipal purposes
including the purpose of construction, operation, and maintenance of sewer and drain infrastructure and
improvements and provide appropriate street drainage as is depicted on Exhibit ‘A’, “Sketch for New Drain
Easements for 72 Pleasant Circle” prepared by Canton Engineering Department, on file with the Office of the Town
Clerk and the Office of the Town Engineer; and further to see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate,
borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or transfer from available funds, a sum of money for such purposes; or
to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
Explanation: This article will establish the easements necessary for the Town of Canton to rectify a drainage issue
at 72 Pleasant Circle. The resident has written twice to the Select Board for relief from the street stormwater
entering through and washing over the property. Two parcels are named in the event that the existing drainage
easement needs to be increased, or lies within the abutting property.
MOVED: That the Canton Select Board be hereby authorized to acquire by purchase, gift or
eminent domain permanent and temporary easements for general municipal purposes including the
purpose of construction, operation, and maintenance of sewer and drain infrastructure and
improvements and provide appropriate street drainage with respect to the land described as printed in
the warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
60Source page 61
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this Article 6-0-0. This Article addresses maintenance of sewer
and drain infrastructure improvements, for the parcels located at 72 Pleasant Circle & 64 Oak. Article 21 is the
result of a request from a homeowner and the Finance Committee has the understanding that all property owners
have been notified and are on board with this Article.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 22
ACQUIRE RIGHT OF WAY TAKINGS AND PERMANENT OR TEMPORARY WATER EASEMENTS FOR REVERE
COURT BRIDGE AND WATER REPLACEMENT IMPROVEMENTS
Article 22 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Select Board to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent
domain the title in fee or the necessary permanent or temporary easements and/or right of entry takings, for
general municipal purposes including to provide appropriate vehicle access and water service to residents on
Revere Court for the land identified as follows:
Canton Assessors Map Number Parcel Number Address
26 54 592 Washington Street
26 55 602 Washington Street
26 56 626 Washington Street
26 64 26 Revere Street
26 65 0 Revere Court
26 66 2-4 Revere Court
26 67 592 Rear Washington Street
26 68 1 Revere Court
26 69 3 Revere Court
26 70 5 Revere Court
26 71 30-32 Revere Court
26 72 38 Revere Court
26 104 40 Revere Court
26 105 40 Revere Street
26 184 0 Washington Street
And further, to see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or
transfer from available funds, a sum of money for such purposes; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
Explanation: This article will establish the easements/takings necessary for MassDOT to replace the single lane
Revere Court bridge with a two-lane bridge. Plans are in the design phase and are not complete. The list of parcels
includes all abutting properties to Revere Ct. Not all parcels will be needed for this article. Once the MassDOT
plans are complete, we will know the exact impacts for the easements. The takings are minimal and result to less
than 100 square feet, at this time. As part of the same project, the Town has requested the replacement of the
existing 4-inch water main with a new 8-inch water main, and needs to acquire appropriate easements for the
water work. Some of the existing water main is on private property without an easement. This will give the Town
legal responsibility for future maintenance. Anticipated construction may be in 2024.
MOVED: That the Select Board be authorized to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain the
title in fee or the necessary permanent or temporary easements and/or right of entry takings, for
general municipal purposes including to provide appropriate vehicle access and water service to
residents on Revere Court for the land identified as set forth in the 2023 Annual Town Meeting
Warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this Article 7-0-0. The Revere Court Bridge is currently a one
lane bridge and is located off Revere Street close to the fire station. The bridge is in need of replacement and will
need to be updated to a two-lane bridge to accommodate two-way traffic and emergency vehicles. Easements will
be needed from abutting parcel owners to widen the bridge and update watermain service. The Finance
Committee has the understanding that all abutting property owners have been notified of this project. Mass DOT
will be covering the cost of the bridge replacement.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
61Source page 62
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
ARTICLE 23
APPROPRIATION OF PROCEEDS FROM THE TNC PER RIDE ASSESSMENT FUNDS
Article 23 To see if the Town will vote to appropriate proceeds from the TNC Per Ride Assessment funds; or to
take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the sum of Nine Thousand Four Hundred Nine Dollars ($9,409.00) be appropriated
to be spent by the Interim Town Planner with approval of the Planning Board for the cost of the Royal
Street shuttle bus service and program management, and that the sum of Four Thousand Twenty Seven
Dollars and Ninety Cents ($4,027.90) be appropriated to be spent for the cost of Trail Signage and
Road Sharrows to mark bike lanes in designated areas, and to meet these appropriations Thirteen
Thousand Four Hundred Thirty Six Dollars and Ninety Cents ($13,436.90) be transferred from TNC
Funds received on deposit in a Reserved for Appropriation account with the intent that said funds shall
be available in FY23.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: Cities and towns in MA receive funds from the Commonwealth through a state assessment on
transportation network companies (TNC), such as Uber and Lyft. The assessment levied by the Commonwealth
amounts to $0.20 per ride. Cities and Towns receive half of the amount for each ride originating in their
City/Town.
These funds must be used to address the impact of transportation network services on municipal roads and bridges
and other transportation infrastructure.
The Finance Committee voted unanimously to appropriate $9,409.00 from the TNC Per Ride Assessment Fund to
cover the cost of shuttle service and program management for two Royall Street shuttles connecting businesses on
Royall Street in Canton to four transit stations (Route 128/Amtrak Station [Providence/Stoughton Line] and three
MBTA Red Line Stations. In addition, the Finance Committee voted unanimously to appropriate $4,027.90, also
from the TNC Per Ride Assessment Fund, for the cost of Trail Signage and Road Sharrows to mark bike lanes in
designated areas.
These two appropriations total $13,436.90
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
62Source page 63
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
ARTICLE 24
AMEND GENERAL BY-LAW ARTICLE XIV SECTION 39 REGULATION OF DOGS
Article 24 To see if the Town will vote to amend General By-Law Article XIV Section 39 Regulation of Dogs,
Section 9, Fines and Penalties, by removing subsections b., c., and d. and e. and replacing with the following, or
take any other action related thereto:
b. Violations of the Leash Law.
1st Offense $ 50
2nd Offense within 12 months of first $ 100
3rd Offense within 12 months of first $ 300
4th and all subsequent Offenses within 12 months of first $500
c. Dog Bite – The Animal Control Officer must make a judgment as to the severity and the provocation of the bite
to determine the processing and procedure for this violation.
1st Offense $ 50
2nd Offense $ 100
3rd and all subsequent offenses $300.
4th and all subsequent offenses $500
d. Dog found in School Yard, in addition to Section X, B
1st Offense $50
2nd Offense $100
3rd Offense $300
4th and all subsequent offenses $500
e. Nuisance complaints, including, but not limited to, barking, littering, defecating or micturating on sidewalks or
private property.
1st Offense $ 50
2nd Offense, within 12 months of first $ 100
3rd Offense $300
4th and all subsequent offenses $500
Select Board for Animal Control
MOVED: That the General By-Law Article XIV Section 39 be amended as set forth in the 2023
Annual Town Meeting Warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this article which increases the fines and penalties for dog
violations.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
63Source page 64
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
ARTICLE 25
ACCEPT PROVISIONS OF THE BRAVE ACT FOR TAX EXEMPTIONS FOR VETERANS
Article 25 To see if the Town will vote to accept the 5th paragraph of G. L. chapter 59, section 5, clauses 22G and
22F, which provide as follows:
“Twenty-second H. Real estate to the full amount of the taxable valuation of real property of the surviving parents
or guardians of soldiers and sailors, members of the National Guard and veterans who: (i) during active duty
service, suffered an injury or illness documented by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or a branch
of the armed forces that was a proximate cause of their death; or (ii) are missing in action with a presumptive
finding of death as a result of active duty service as members of the armed forces of the United States; provided,
however, that the real estate shall be occupied by the surviving parents or guardians as the surviving parents' or
guardians' domicile; and provided further, that the surviving parents or guardians shall have been domiciled in the
commonwealth for the 5 consecutive years immediately before the date of filing for an exemption pursuant to this
clause or the soldier or sailor, member of the National Guard or veteran was domiciled in the commonwealth for
not less than 6 months before entering service.
Surviving parents or guardians eligible for an exemption pursuant to this clause shall be eligible regardless of
when the soldier, sailor, member of the National Guard or veteran died or became missing in action with a
presumptive finding of death; provided, however, that the exemption shall only apply to tax years beginning on or
after January 1, 2019. Such exemption shall be available until such time as the surviving parents or guardians are
deceased. No real estate shall be so exempt which has been conveyed to the surviving parents or guardians to
evade taxation. This clause shall take effect upon its acceptance by any city or town.”
“Twenty-second G. In any city or town that accepts this clause, real estate that is the domicile of a person but is
owned by a trustee, conservator or other fiduciary for the person's benefit if the real estate would be eligible for
exemption under clause Twenty-second, Twenty-second A, Twenty-second B, Twenty-second C, Twenty-second D,
Twenty-second E or Twenty-second F if the person were the owner of the real estate.”
Or take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for Veterans Service Officer/Veteran’s Agent
MOVED: That the 5th paragraph of G. L. chapter 59, section 5, clauses 22G and 22F, as set forth
in the 2023 Annual Town Meeting Warrant, be accepted.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously approved this article, which will provide a real estate tax
exemption for the surviving family of a veteran who is killed in action, a POW, or a service member who is missing
in action. This tax exemption (for the full amount of the property tax) is for the individual’s spouse, mother or
father. It is a requirement that the service member will have lived in Canton for a minimum of 6 months prior to
enlistment, and that the surviving family resides in Canton for a minimum of 5 consecutive years before filing the
exemption. This benefit will be discreet and is very limited to who is eligible. According to Cantons Veterans
Agent, there is currently only one family in Canton who would be eligible for this exemption.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
64Source page 65
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
ARTICLE 26
ACCEPT MGL CHAPTER 41 § 110A TOWN CLERK SATURDAY HOURS
Article 26 To see if the town will vote pursuant to the provisions of chapter 41, section 110A of the general laws
of the Commonwealth, to authorize the Town Clerk’s office to remain closed on all Saturdays and to treat
Saturdays as a legal holiday for purposes of calculating the time frame for filing matters in that office, or take any
other action relative thereto.
Select Board for the Town Clerk
Explanation: By accepting MGL Chapter 41 § 110A when a voter registration deadline falls on a Saturday or a
holiday it can be moved to a Friday or the work day before the holiday.
MOVED: That pursuant to the provisions of chapter 41, section 41, section 110A of the general
laws, the town clerk’s office is authorized to remain closed on all Saturdays and that Saturdays are to
be treated as a legal holiday for purposes of calculating the time frame for filing matters in that office.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: By implementing MGL Ch. 41, Section 110A, when a voter registration deadline for a local
election or town meeting falls on a Saturday, the deadline would revert back to the previous business day, Friday.
The recently passed Votes Act changed the voter registration deadline from 20 days to 10 days before an election.
Canton’s elections are held on Tuesdays, therefore, the voter registration deadline will now fall on a Saturday and
the Clerk’s office must remain open from 9am to 5pm. If the deadline were on a Friday, instead of closing the
Clerk’s office at 1pm, as is normally done, it would remain open until 5pm. Implementing this law would save the
town the cost of having to pay overtime to a member of the maintenance staff to open and close the building on a
Saturday and the overtime to a member of the Town Clerk staff. There is already a member of the maintenance
staff working on Friday afternoons and the overtime paid to a member of the Clerk’s staff would only be 4 hours on
a Friday versus nine hours on a Saturday. The last day to register to vote typically generates little, if any, activity.
By implementing this section of the law we would not be disenfranchising anyone from registering to vote, as there
are many options for citizens to register to vote, such as: Registering in person, by mail, online or through the
Registry of Motor Vehicles, and we advertise the deadlines accordingly. 60 communities have already implemented
this law. 4 other communities (including Canton) are proposing implementation of the law at their town meetings
this spring.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
65Source page 66
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
ARTICLE 27
SUSTAINABILITY/CLIMATE ACTION & RELATED ACTIVITIES
Article 27 The purpose of this article is to authorize the Select Board to work towards the goals of:
1. Facilitating the development of a Sustainability/Climate Action Plan to help mitigate and adapt to Climate
Change, including establishing specific reduction targets in greenhouse gas emissions and making
applicable changes to existing governance structures if deemed practical to do so by the Select Board;
2. Initiating the consideration of the possible establishment of a new Town Sustainability and Climate
Manager position if deemed practical to do so by the Select Board; and
3. Initiate the process to identify applicable funding and other responsible economic growth opportunities, if
any, to support these sustainability-related efforts.
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the members of Canton’s Annual Town Meeting request applicable Town
boards, committees, departments, ratepayers, and other stakeholders, work under the direction of the Select
Board, to the extent practical towards the goal of supporting the research and development of a
Sustainability/Climate Action Plan for Canton for adoption by the Select Board.
Be it further resolved, that the members of Canton’s Annual Town Meeting authorize that the Select Board in its
discretion:
1. Work to the extent practical in the discretion of the Select Board towards the goal of engaging a broad
cross-section of Town stakeholders at a public meeting to inform the public about the risks and
opportunities posed by Climate Change to the Town of Canton, to discuss the process the Town of Canton
is planning to address these risks, and to encourage community participation in the development of a
Sustainability/Climate Action Plan. The Select Board would be the Town authority responsible for,
supervisor of, and final approving authority for the adoption of the Sustainability/Climate Action Plan.
2. Work to the extent practical to do so in the discretion of the Select Board towards the goal of undertaking
research and development of an initial Sustainability/Climate Action Plan for Canton that hopefully could
address, among other initiatives, community-wide greenhouse gas emission reduction targets consistent
with Massachusetts General Laws, as well as possible identification of any changes to the Town’s presently
existing sustainability governance structure to further the purposes of this article.
3. Work to the extent practical towards initiating consideration of a new Sustainability and Climate Manager
Town employee position with the goal of working towards having such a position to the extent practical
possibly funded and filled as soon as practical.
4. Work to the extent practical towards the goal of preparing one or more public reports containing:
a. An overview and summary of the Sustainability/Climate Action Plan, if any is ready for
dissemination.
b. A progress report on work towards the goal if deemed practical to do so by the Select
Board of preparing an inventory of GHG emissions and municipal-based energy savings
showing, where possible, progress towards GHG emission reduction goals compared to
historical levels.
c. A progress report on work towards the goal of preparing a list of prioritized action items
if practical to accomplish over a reasonable planning horizon consistent with Canton’s
existing Master Plan and the Town’s other sustainability and climate-related goals and
objectives.
d. A progress report on work towards the goal of preparing a description of the resources
needed to complete said goals, including consideration of proposing Town Meeting
appropriations or other actions to the extent practical and effective.
Now, therefore, be it hereby Resolved that the Select Board is respectfully requested to authorize applicable
boards, committees and departments to work towards the goal of taking reasonable and timely action if practical to
secure funding and other responsible economic growth opportunities for the foregoing Article, including
consideration of private, municipal, state, and/or federal sources as may be considered advantageous to the town.
Or take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 27 be adopted as printed in the warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-1-0
MAJORITY DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this article (7-1-0) to authorize the Select
Board to work towards advancing the development of a Sustainability/Climate Action Plan that would set specific
targets for sustainability-related goals, to consider the pros and cons of establishing the position of Town
Sustainability and Climate Manager to advance the goals of sustainability and climate change mitigation in a more
centrally organized way, and to identify funding for these efforts while promoting responsible economic growth. A
Sustainability/Climate Action Plan would consider a wide range of topics, such as transportation issues, building
designs, infrastructure, sustainable use and conservation of resources, and public health concerns. In the long-run,
a Town Sustainability and Climate Manager position might be created to advance the findings of the action plan in a
consistent way. While this article does not have any specific costs or allocated funds directly associated with it this
year, the result of advancing this article will likely be requests for specific actions in the future that will require
funds from various sources, potentially including local funds among other sources, such as grants. However, each
of those requests will need to be reviewed and approved in turn by the appropriate Town departments or boards
and, when applicable, future Town Meetings.
The Select Board has been open to engaging a cross-section of Town stakeholders through a Sustainability Action
Plan Steering Committee that will provide a report with recommendations toward achieving the aforementioned
goals that would then be considered for approval through future Town action. An interim committee has been
approved by the Select Board in anticipation of the passage of Article 27 at the Annual Town Meeting.
The Canton Master Plan adopted in 2020 recognizes the need for the Town to promote sustainability goals and
respond and adapt to hazards caused by climate change. The Master Plan Implementation Committee has voted to
support this article and the creation of the committee to advance it, as have some other Town boards and
committees.
These environmental and sustainability issues are pressing concerns for the Town that require proactive monitoring
and study followed by the implementation of the recommended action. Getting ahead of the curve on these issues
can promote sustainable economic development and a better quality of life in town while helping to protect the
public from some negative outcomes of resource scarcity and environmental and climate change. This article will
allow the Select Board to begin the process of developing a clear framework to meet sustainability and climate
change mitigation goals while reaching a wide range of stakeholders for input and allowing experts to develop a
plan.
MINORITY DISCUSSION: With the Commonwealth banning the sale of gas-powered cars by 2035, this
will help to prevent the majority of greenhouse gas emissions within Canton. OPEC will continue to pump oil and
our roads will continue to be manufactured with oil, so there will be little to no chance that the Town of Canton will
help to mitigate Green House Gas (GHG) emissions going forward.
While this Article does not have a specific cost, there will be substantial financial obligations in the future regarding,
feasibility studies, legal and consulting fees, reporting fees, building engineering design fees, construction fees and
other unforeseen fees.
Additional factors weighed in opposition to Article 27:
1. It will be impossible for this proposed Article to prepare a public report containing the delta of GHG
emissions to historic levels to current since Canton has not historically tracked GHG. This article will have
large consultant fee charges that will take away from other vital town resources.
2. Our current Master Plan outlines many climate change initiatives which have not yet been implemented,
and this Article will create needless redundancies throughout the Town.
3. Other objectives to mitigate GHG may include converting municipal buildings to LEED buildings, which is
something the Town cannot afford at this time. We have many essential capital projects in the pipeline
such as a plan to rebuild the Galvin Middle School, the build out of the Revere and Son Corporation
Museum, adding filtration to the town water system to mitigate PFAS, and the rebuild and design of Saint
Gerrard’s to name a few.
In conclusion, the Town’s resources could be put to use in a more effective way that will create meaningful
progress to achieving current Master Plan initiatives.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
67Source page 68
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
ARTICLE 28
FORMATION OF A SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN STEERING COMMITTEE AND INITIAL STEPS FOR THE
CREATION OF A SUSTAINABITLIY ACTION PLAN
Article 28
SUMMARY and ARTICLE
For 2023 Canton ATM
SUMMARY: FORMATION OF A SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN STEERING COMMITTEE and
INITIAL STEPS for the CREATION OF A SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN
There is growing concern that we are experiencing more frequent and intense weather events beyond natural
climate variability, resulting in negative impacts on both humans and nature. To address these concerns, the Town
of Canton’s current Master Plan identifies actions and policies to adapt to the effects of climate change, as well as
initial steps to mitigate the root causes of climate change, including reducing GHG emissions, and increasing access
to clean energy. This combination of adaptation and mitigation strategies creates a clear pathway for the Town of
Canton, in conformance with state law and requirements, to positively impact our increasingly uncertain future.
However, many of these actions do not include specific goals and targets, have not identified funding needs and
opportunities, are not time-based, do not specify measures of success, and require coordination and leadership
across multiple stakeholders, including ratepayers. By creating an interim Sustainability Action Plan Steering
Committee, charged with working together and with key stakeholders, we will ensure progress on a mix of
climate adaptation and mitigation programs within a realistic timeframe. This Article improves how we govern our
Town sustainability and climate-related goals and targets in a more timely, efficient, and effective way. By
researching and developing a formalized Sustainability Action Plan that better addresses gaps in the Master
Plan, this Article also helps to enhance public health and ensure a high quality of life for all our residents, both
today and in the future.
ARTICLE: FORMATION OF A SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN STEERING COMMITTEE and INITIAL STEPS for the
CREATION OF A SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN
This article is to enable the Select Board to authorize and form a Sustainability Action Plan Steering
Committee (SAPSC), specifically charged with the research and development of a Sustainability Action Plan (SAP)
for Canton. The SAPSC will be formed as soon as practical following Town Meeting.
The SAPSC will work directly with the Town Planner and coordinate with other applicable Town boards, committees,
departments, and other stakeholders to ensure an efficient and effective planning process.
The scope of the SAPSC will include: (1) researching and recommending ways for Canton to mitigate and adapt to
Climate Change1, including establishing specific reductions in greenhouse gas emissions2; (2) identifying applicable
opportunities to fund Canton’s sustainability management efforts, and (3) supporting the timely establishment of a
new Town position, Sustainability and Climate Manager.
Whereas, the use of fossil fuels has already caused unprecedented increases in greenhouse gasses in the
earth’s atmosphere, causing global average temperatures to rise by 1.51°C, which, if unmitigated, will
further accelerate disastrous climate impacts.
Whereas, in Feb 2022, the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released its Sixth
Assessment Report, which determined that human-induced climate change, including more frequent and
intense extreme weather events, has caused widespread adverse impacts and related damages to nature
and people, beyond natural climate variability, with particularly extreme and disproportionate effects on
marginalized populations, including persons with disabilities.
Whereas, the Town of Canton is already experiencing hazards, including intense storms, flooding, heat
waves, and drought, which are exacerbated by climate change. As indicated in the Town of Canton 2035
Master Plan, Canton recognizes that the transition off fossil fuels offers the best chance for our Town to
1
Climate Change is defined by the United Nations as the long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns.
These shifts may be natural, such as through variations in the solar cycle. But since the 1800s, human activities
have been the main driver of climate change, primarily due to burning fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas.
2
Greenhouse gasses include carbon dioxide, methane, and other human-made chemicals such as refrigerants.
68Source page 69
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
enjoy the benefits of a lower carbon, cleaner, and equitable economy, including improved health
outcomes, quality of life, new jobs, and modernized infrastructure.
Whereas, in March 2021, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts passed “An Act Creating a Next
Generation Roadmap for Climate Policy,” which commits the state to reducing greenhouse gas emissions
33% by 2025, 50% by 2030, and sets a goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
Whereas, Massachusetts’ emissions reductions targets require our continued bold and ambitious action.
At the municipal level, towns must target emissions reductions through a number of means, including
implementing more stringent green building codes, increasing energy efficiency, purchasing clean
renewable energy supplies, electrifying transportation, retrofitting homes and buildings with clean
renewable sources of electricity, including heating and cooling options.
Whereas, recently passed state and federal Climate Change legislation open time-sensitive opportunities
to access significant new funding and support for a wide range of projects that we are both currently
undertaking and could undertake in the future here in Canton, including continued support of Canton’s
Green Community designation by the State of Massachusetts.
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the residents of the Town of Canton hereby declare that Climate Change
threatens the health and welfare of humans, communities, and our planet, and that a more timely mobilization to
both mitigate and adapt to this challenge is prudent.
Be it further resolved, that the members of Canton Town Meeting call on applicable Town boards, committees,
departments, ratepayers, and other stakeholders to support the research and development of a Sustainability
Action Plan for Canton for presentation at the 2024 Town Meeting.
Be it further resolved, that the members of Canton Town Meeting request that the Select Board authorize and
appoint as soon as practical a SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN STEERING COMMITTEE consisting of seven
members: one each from the Select Board, Planning Board, Master Plan Implementation Committee, Sustainability
Committee, and Energy Advisory Committee; as well as two at-large candidates with expertise in energy efficiency,
building codes, sustainable design and construction, transportation, public health, conservation and/or other
related fields all for a year term renewed annually to:
1. Engage a broad cross-section of Town stakeholders at a public meeting to be held within 180 days of the
formation of the SAPSC to inform the public about the risks and opportunities posed by Climate Change,
the process the Town of Canton is planning to address it, and to encourage community participation in the
development of a Sustainability Action Plan.
2. By December 2023 have completed the research and development of an initial SAP for Canton that
addresses, among other things, community-wide greenhouse gas emissions reductions targets consistent
with Massachusetts General Laws, as well as an applicable Town sustainability governance structure and
any applicable changes to Canton’s by-laws.
3. By the target date of December 2023 have developed the job description, funding source(s), and reporting
framework for a Sustainability and Climate Manager with the goal of having the position filled as soon as
practical.
4. By the 2024 Town Meeting complete a report containing:
a. An updated inventory of municipal-based energy savings showing, where possible,
progress towards GHG emissions reduction goals compared to historical levels.
b. A list of prioritized action items to accomplish over a five-year planning horizon
consistent with, where possible, Canton’s existing Master Plan and the Town’s other
sustainability and climate-related goals and objectives.
c. A description of applicable resources, including Town Meeting appropriations or other
actions, needed to complete said action items.
69Source page 70
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Now, therefore, be it hereby Resolved that the Select Board will authorize applicable boards, committees and
departments to apply for state and/or federal funds to assist and/or to reimburse the Town in connection with any
of the foregoing; to authorize the Select Board to accept grants, gifts, or donations on behalf of the Town for the
purposes of this article; and to determine how such appropriation shall be raised; seek all relevant support and
assistance in implementing this resolution from Canton’s elected officials at the county, state, and federal levels;
and to act on anything relating thereto.
Thomas Birmingham and 51 others
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 28 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted to recommend the indefinite postponement of this article in favor
of Article 27.
Article 28 is a citizen petition that largely has the same stated goals as Article 27 (facilitate the development of a
Sustainability/Climate Action Plan, potentially explore the establishment of a Town Sustainability and Climate
Manager, and identify funding to meet the recommended goals). However, Article 28 would also establish a
Sustainability Action Plan Steering Committee through Town Meeting action rather than at the discretion of the
Select Board. Article 28 was developed prior to the Town sponsored Article 27. Considerable negotiation between
the authors of this citizen-petition article and the Town resulted in the creation of Article 27, which through it and
related Select Board action would meet the goals of this article in both letter and in spirit. Town Counsel has stated
that the Select Board already has the power to create such a committee without action at a Town Meeting. Working
with the authors of Article 28, Select Board has already approved the creation of a Sustainability Action Plan
Steering Committee. If Article 27 passes at the Annual Town Meeting, the other objectives sought in Article 28
would also be satisfied through that authorization. The Select Board creating this committee allows more flexibility
and more day-to-day oversight for this committee through that board than if the committee was established
through Town Meeting. If the authors of this article are satisfied with the commitment of the Select Board in
creating that committee and Article 27 is approved, Article 28 will be withdrawn on the floor of the Annual Town
Meeting in mutual support of Article 27.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
70Source page 71
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
ARTICLE 29
AMEND ZONING BY-LAW SECTION 3.1.4 TABLE OF USE REGULATIONS
Article 29 To see if the Town will vote to amend Zoning By-Laws Section 3.1.4, the Table of Use Regulations as
follows, or to take any other action related thereto. Please note all updates are in bold, underlined and all changes
are indicated with an *.
1. By amending Zoning By-Laws Section 3.1.4, Table of Use Regulations, Section A Residential Use as follows, with
bolded and underlined language indicating changes:
Principal Use SR GR B CB LI LI(B) LI(C) I POS
A. Residential Uses
Single family dwelling Y Y Y Y N N N NN
Two-family dwelling, if located on a lot having an area larger than the N Y Y Y N N N NN
minimum hereinafter required for the construction of a single-family dwelling
in the district by an additional two thousand (2000) square feet
Assisted Living and/or Independent Living Facility 1 N BA BA BA *N BA BA NN
Boarding or lodging house2 N BA Y Y N N N NN
Building containing one (1) or two (2) dwelling units in combination with N N Y Y N N N NN
stores or other permitted uses, subject to the condition that such building
conforms to the lot area provisions applicable to a one-family or two-family
house, respectively in the same district
Multi-family dwelling N BA Y Y N N N NN
Multi-family dwelling or building containing three (3) or more dwelling units in N N Y Y N N N NN
combination with stores or other permitted uses, subject to the conditions
that such building is located on a lot having an area larger than the minimum
hereafter required for the construction of a single-family dwelling in the same
district by an additional three thousand (3,000) square feet for each family in
excess of one (1) accommodated therein
The conversion and/or use of a single family dwelling existing on March 8, BA BA Y Y N N N NN
1937, as a dwelling for not more than two (2) families, or as a boarding or
lodging house, or a tourist home, subject to Section 8.3 and 8.4
Short-term rental3 Y Y Y Y N N N NN
1. See Section 8.2.2 and 8.7 for special regulations
2. See Section 8.3 for special regulations
3. Subject to applicable State and Town registration, administrative regulations, and inspection requirements.
2. By amending Zoning By-Laws, Section 3.1.4, Table of Use Regulations, Section B Exempt and Institutional Uses
as follows, with bolded and underlined language indicating changes:
Principal Use SR GR B CB LI LI(B) LI(C) I POS
B. Exempt and Institutional Uses
Exempt: uses exempted from prohibition by G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 32 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
Hospital, Long-term care facility, hospice, health care facility/clinic, or N N N N BA BA BA BA N
substance abuse detoxification or treatment center3
Philanthropic, educational, or charitable institution, non-exempt BA BA Y Y N N N N Y
Library, museum, art gallery or community building Y Y Y Y Y N N Y N
Extension of existing cemetery Y Y Y Y Y N N Y Y
Recreational or water supply use of a governmental agency Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
Public administration building, fire or police station Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N
Cultural use N N N N BA BA BA N N
Other municipal uses Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N
Essential services BA BA BA BA BA BA BA BA N
Parkland Open Space or Recreational Uses N N N N N N N N Y
2. As defined by M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 3
3. See Special Regulations Section 4.2.7 for in-patient facilities and Section 4.2.8 for out-patient facilities
71Source page 72
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
3. By amending Zoning By-laws Section 3.1.4, Table of Use Regulations, Section C Agricultural and Related Uses as
follows, with bolded and underlined language indicating changes:
Principal Use SR GR B CB LI LI(B) LI(C) I POS
C. Agricultural and Related Uses
Commercial agriculture, aquaculture, silviculture, horticulture, floriculture or Y Y YY Y Y Y YY
viticulture provided that all such activities may be limited to parcels of five (5)
acres or more in area not zoned for agriculture, aquaculture, silviculture,
horticulture, floriculture or viticulture
Orchard, market garden, or nursery on a two-acre parcel (but not including any Y Y YY Y Y Y YY
building or structure primarily used or maintained in connection with such
purpose nor the regular sale at retail of any agricultural produce, unless
authorized by the Board of Appeals as hereinafter provided)
Building or structure used or maintained in connection with a permitted BA N NN N N N NN
agricultural use of the land, or used for any other purpose of agricultural
production (such as a greenhouse or poultry battery)
Commercial greenhouse on less than five (5) acres N N NN N N N YN
Farm stand, exempt Y Y YY Y Y Y YY
Farm stand, local BA N NN N N N NN
4 By amending Zoning By-Laws Section 3.1.4, Table of Use Regulations, Section D Recreational Uses as follows,
with bolded and underlined language indicating changes:
Principal Use SR GR B CB LI LI(B) LI(C) I POS
D. Recreational Uses
Golf course (but not including a golf driving range or "miniature" golf BA N N N BA BA BA N Y
course), boat or canoe livery, riding academy or stable
Golf driving range, "miniature" golf course, or other similar outdoor N N N N BA BA BA Y N
commercial recreation use (but not including an amusement park, drive-in
theater or open-air facilities for "spectator sports" except where authorized
by the Board of Appeals as hereinafter provided)
Theater, bowling alley, dance hall, or other place of indoor amusement N N BA BA BA BA BA BA N
Health or exercise club N N BA N BA BA BA N N
Private club, lodge, or other nonprofit social, cultural, civic or recreational BA BA Y Y N N N N N
use (but not including any use the chief activity of which is one customarily
conducted as a business)
Limited Industrial Recreational Use N N N N BA BA BA N N
5. By amending Zoning By-laws Section 3.1.4, Table of Use Regulations, Section E Restaurant Uses as follows, with
bolded and underlined language indicating changes:
Principal Use SR GR B CB LI LI(B) LI(C) I POS
E. Restaurant Uses
Restaurant or similar place for the service of food or beverages only to N N BA BA BA BA BA BA N
persons inside a completely enclosed building, with or without regular
mechanical or live entertainment;
Outdoor dining allowed by special permit
Fast food establishment N N BA BA BA BA N BA N
6. By amending Zoning By-laws Section 3.1.4, Table of Use Regulations, Section F Commercial and Office Uses as
follows, with bolded and underlined language indicating changes:
F. Commercial and Office Uses SR GR B CB LI LI(B) LI(C) I POS
Kennel, animal or veterinary hospital N N BA N Y Y Y Y N
Funeral parlor or undertaking establishment N BA Y Y N N N Y N
Business or professional office or agency, bank or other financial institution N N Y Y BA BA BA Y N
Medical offices: offices of a doctor or dentist not a resident of the premises, N N Y Y BA *Y BA Y N
or a group of such offices
Medical or Dental Labs N N Y Y BA BA BA Y N
72Source page 73
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Office for executive or administrative purposes only N N Y Y Y Y Y Y N
Educational use, nonexempt N N BA BA BA BA BA BA N
Hotel or motel N N BA BA BA BA BA BA N
General or personal service establishment N N Y Y BA BA BA Y N
Trade shop N N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
Printing or publishing establishment, with not more than five thousand N N Y Y Y Y Y Y N
(5000) square feet of total floor area per establishment used for production
and storage (exclusive of area used for office or sales purposes)
Printing or publishing establishment, without limitation on floor area N N N N Y Y Y Y N
Parking area for which no fee is charged provided that such area is located N SP Y Y N N N N N
on a lot directly adjacent to a Non-Residential District
Telecommunication facilities N N N N BA BA BA BA N
Medical Marijuana Facilities 4 N N N N N N N BA N
4. See Section 7.7 for special regulations.
7. By amending Zoning By-laws Section 3.1.4, Table of Use Regulations, Section G Retail Uses as follows, with
bolded and underlined language indicating changes:
G. Retail Uses SR GR B CB LI LI(B) LI(C) I POS
Pharmacy or drug store N N Y Y Y Y Y YN
Recreational Marijuana Establishments N N N N N N N NN
Store for the sale of goods at retail N N Y Y BA BA BA YN
Showroom for building supplies (including plumbing, heating and N N Y Y N N N YN
ventilation equipment), with storage limited to floor samples only unless
additional storage is allowed by Special Permit granted by the Zoning Board
of Appeals
Salesroom for boats, trailers, trucks, farm implements, or machinery, with N N *SB *SB N N N YN
no repair services
Wholesale office or showroom, with storage limited to floor samples only N N Y Y N N N YN
unless additional storage is allowed by Special Permit granted by the
Zoning Board of Appeals
8. By amending Zoning By-laws Section 3.1.4, Table of Use Regulations, Section H Motor Vehicle Related Uses as
follows, with bolded and underlined language indicating changes:
H. Motor Vehicle Related Uses SR GR B CB LI LI(B) LI(C) I POS
Salesroom for motor vehicles with no repair services except in a garage N N *SB Y BA BA BA YN
Motor vehicle repair garage motor vehicle body repair and painting N N *SB BA BA BA BA YN
Motor vehicle fuel facility and incidental retail facility not to exceed six N N N BA BA BA BA NN
hundred (600) square feet in size
Car wash N N N N BA BA BA NN
9. By amending Zoning By-laws Section 3.1.4, Table of Use Regulations, Section I Light Manufacturing,
Manufacturing and Related Uses as follows, with bolded and underlined language indicating changes:
I. Light Manufacturing, Manufacturing and Related Uses SR GR B CB LI LI(B) LI(C) I POS
Scientific or research laboratory N N NN Y Y Y Y N
Manufacturing N N NN Y *N N Y N
Warehouse or distribution plant N N NN Y Y Y BA N
Other warehouse or distribution plant N N NN N N N BA N
Any retail or wholesale use which is incidental to and directly related to the N N NN BA BA BA BA N
products warehoused or shipped from the premises with said retail or
wholesale use limited to not more than twenty-five percent (25%) of the
premises or more than five thousand (5000) square feet, whichever is less.
Light manufacturing N N NN *Y *Y Y *Y N
Above or below grade structured parking pursuant to Section 7.2 N N N *BA BA BA BA *BA N
10. By amending Zoning By-Laws Section 3.1.4, Table of Use Regulations, Section J Accessory Uses as follows,
with bolded and underlined language indicating changes:
73Source page 74
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
J. Accessory Uses SR GR B CB LI LI(B) LI(C) I POS
Accessory use incidental to a permitted main use Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N
Home occupation, non-intensive Y Y Y Y N N N N N
Home occupation, intensive BA BA Y Y N N N N N
Accessory Apartment in single family dwelling pursuant to Section 8.1 BA BA Y Y N N N N N
Family child care home BA BA BA BA N N N N N
Family child care home, large BA BA BA BA N N N N N
Adult day care BA BA BA BA BA BA BA BA N
Accessory scientific uses BA BA BA BA BA BA BA BA N
Automobile parking lot N N Y Y N N N Y N
The keeping overnight of more than five motor vehicles, one of which may be BA BA Y Y N N N N N
a commercial vehicle. Such commercial vehicle shall not exceed a gross
vehicle weight of twelve thousand, five hundred (12,500) pounds, or
measure more than seven feet, six inches (7' 6") from the ground to the top
of the roof, or measure more than twenty-one feet (21') from the front
bumper to the rear bumper. For the purpose of this section no, so-called,
pickup truck shall be deemed to be a 'commercial' vehicle. Nothing in this
section shall be construed to prevent any person from bringing a commercial
vehicle otherwise prohibited by this section into a residential neighborhood
for the purpose of making a delivery, or for performing work, or during
lunchtime, or on an irregular basis
The renting of rooms or the furnishing of table board in a dwelling to not Y Y N N N N N N N
more than two (2) persons other than members of the family (whether
regular or transient)
Greenhouse, tool shed, playhouse, tennis court, boat house, or other similar Y Y N N N N N N N
building or structure for domestic storage or use.
Short-term rental6 Y Y Y Y N N N N N
Drive-in or drive-through facilities N N BA BA BA BA BA BA N
6. Subject to applicable State and Town regulations, administrative regulations, and inspection requirements.
Planning Board (zoning article)
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning By-law, Section 3.1.4, Table of Use Regulations, be amended as set
forth in the Warrant, with the following change: in Part 9 of Article 29, the Table of Use Regulation for
Manufacturing in the LI(B) district shall remain “Y”.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 4-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
The Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the Planning Board to Town Meeting
for Article 29 be adopted as printed in the warrant and amended by the motion.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted 4-0-0 on February 15, 2023 to send a
favorable recommendation for Article 29 with the exception of the Scrivener’s error as stated in the motion above.
74Source page 75
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports the amended version of this article
that will be presented by the Planning Board at the Annual Town Meeting.
Article 29 would amend Section 3.1.4, the Table of Use Regulations, of the Town’s Zoning Bylaws in order to
correct the tables to reflect previously amended zoning regulations that were not accurately reflected in the tables,
add amendments that are needed to fill out incomplete tables, or make other necessary modifications. These
corrections for the most part affect business zoning districts, such as B and CB, and industrial zoning districts, such
as LI, LI(B), LI(C), and I. These corrections would occur in the appropriate tables regarding a variety of different
uses, as shown in the text of the article with the exception in Part 9 of Article 29, or Table I of the Table of Uses,
regarding Light Manufacturing, Manufacturing and Related Uses. This amended version retains a “Y” designation in
the place of the erroneously printed *N under LI(B) for manufacturing uses. Ensuring that the Table of Use
Regulations are accurate will prevent confusion in zoning implementation for the Town and prevent
misunderstandings in zoning interpretations for private stakeholders going forward.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
75Source page 76
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
ARTICLE 30
Amend General By-laws to Add New Article XXVI Short Term Rental of Residential Property
Article 30 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Town of Canton Revised General By-laws by adding Article
XXVI, Short Term Rental of Residential Properties as follows, or to take any other action related thereto.
Article XXVI
Short Term Rental of Residential Properties
1. Purpose and Intent
This by-law is enacted pursuant to the Town’s Home Rule Authority and the authority set forth in General Laws
chapter 64G, §14 and is intended to provide for an orderly process to regulate Short Term Rentals in the Town to
insure that Short Term Rentals do not create or cause any nuisance conditions or threats to public health or safety
within the Town.
2. Definitions
When used in this Short Term Rental By-law, unless a contrary intention clearly appears, the following terms
shall have the following meanings:
Operator: a person operating a short-term rental including, but not limited to, the owner or proprietor of such
premises, the lessee, sublessee, mortgagee in possession, licensee or any other person otherwise operating such
short-term rental.
Short-term rental: An owner-occupied, tenant-occupied or non-owner occupied property including, but not
limited to, an apartment, house, cottage, condominium or a furnished accommodation that is not a hotel, motel,
lodging house or bed and breakfast establishment, where; (i) at least 1 room or unit is rented to an occupant or
sub-occupant; and (ii) all accommodations are reserved in advance; provided, however, that a private owner-
occupied property shall be considered a single unit if leased or rented as such. It does not include time-share
property. A short-term rental is a rental that is for not more than 31 consecutive calendar days.
Limited share unit: operator plans to list part of its primary residence for rent and will be present in the unit
during the short term rental.
Home share unit: operator plans to list its primary residence for rent and will not be present in the unit during
some or all of the rental.
76Source page 77
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
Owner-adjacent unit: operator plans to rent a full unit in the same two-or three- unit property where its primary
residential unit is located.
3. Registration
A. No person shall operate a Short term rental without having first obtained a Certificate of Registration
from the Town Clerk. An application for a Certificate of Registration shall be on a form provided by the
Town and shall contain the Department of Revenue identification number or proof of exemption under
G.L. c.64G. The Operator shall provide with the application a certificate of registration issued by the
Department of Revenue in accordance with section 67 of Chapter 62C of the General Laws.
B. The annual fee for such Certificate of Registration shall be set forth in the regulations issued pursuant
to Section 4 of this Short Term Rentals by-law.
C. The application for the Certificate of Registration shall include an attestation that the owner and/or
operator is in compliance with all applicable federal, state and local laws, including but not limited to
G.L. c.64G and the Fair Housing Act , G.L. c.151B and local equivalents and regulations related
thereto and all other regulations applicable to residential dwellings and that the owner and/or
operator of the property is current with all Town taxes, water and sewage charges and other fees.
Any property offered for a Short term rental shall not have any outstanding building, sanitary, zoning,
or fire code violations, orders of abatement, or stop work orders. Nothing contained herein shall
relieve the owner or operator from complying with all local permits, rules and regulations issued by
any Town boards or officials generally applicable to residential dwelling units.
D. The Town Clerk shall not issue any Certificate of Registration unless the operator has (1) submitted a
complete application and paid all associated fees; (2) provided contact information for the operator
and persons designated to address any issues at the Short term rental within two hours’ notice; (3)
provided the Town with a certificate of insurance evidencing liability insurance coverage for the Short
term rental in an amount to be determined in the regulations issued pursuant to Section 4 of this
Short Term Rentals by-law; and (4) provided an approved Certificate of Inspection completed by the
Building and Fire Departments .
E. Short term rentals are subject to inspection by the Board of Health upon reasonable notice via
consent or administrative warrant, or without such notice in the event of an imminent threat to public
health or safety.
F. A Certificate of Registration is valid for one year and may be renewed at the discretion of the Town,
provided that the operator has complied with the provisions of this Short Term Rentals by-law and
any associated regulations during the preceding year. An application for renewal of a Certificate of
Registration shall be submitted along with the annual fee no later than November 1 of the next year.
77Source page 78
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
G. The Certificate of Registration is issued to the Operator and does not run with the land. If the Short
Term Rental is sold or transferred out of ownership, a new application for a Certificate of Registration
must be issued before Short Term Rentals can continue or resume.
H. The Operator must notify all abutters to a Short term rental that it has been registered as a Short-
term rental unit within 30 days of being issued a Certificate of Registration. An abutter is defined as
the owner of any residential dwelling within 300 feet of the Short-term rental.
I. Short term rentals are only allowed in owner-occupied condominiums, single-family, two-family, and
three-family buildings. For two-family and three-family buildings, the owner-occupant must own all
the units.
4. Regulations
A. The Town Clerk, subject to the approval of the Select Board, shall promulgate regulations to carry out
and enforce the provisions of this Short Term Rentals by-law. Such regulations may also include but
are not limited to requirements to ensure that the operation of the Short term rental does not create
or cause a nuisance to the surrounding neighborhood or the Town due to unreasonable noise,
overburdening of parking areas or other nuisance conditions or create or cause any threat to public
health or safety.
B. The Regulations shall include without limitation a requirement that the operator post a sign inside the
unit that informs occupants of the location of fire extinguishers, fire exits, and pull fire alarms.
5. Tax
A. The Town of Canton will assess a 6% tax on the daily rental costs in accordance with the
Commonwealth of MA local occupancy tax rules and regulations.
6. Enforcement
A. Whoever violates any provision of this Short Term Rentals by-law or a regulation promulgated
hereunder may be penalized by indictment or on complaint brought in the district court. The Town
may also seek to enjoin violations through any lawful process. The election of one remedy shall not
preclude enforcement through any other lawful means.
B. Whoever violates any provision of this Short Term Rentals By-law or a regulation promulgated
hereunder may be penalized by the noncriminal disposition process as provided in G.L. c.40, §21D. If
noncriminal disposition is elected, the penalty shall be one hundred dollars ($100) for the first
offense, two hundred dollars ($200) for the second offense and three hundred dollars ($300) for a
78Source page 79
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
third or subsequent offense. Each day or portion thereof shall constitute a separate offense. The
Board of Health or its agent or any police officer of the Town shall be the enforcing authority.
Select Board
MOVED: That the Town of Canton Revised General By-laws be amended by adding Article XXVI,
Short Term Rental of Residential Properties, as set forth in the warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this article. Article 30 would allow the Town of
Canton to set regulations regarding the short-term rentals of residential properties (only rentals with overall term
periods of less than thirty-one days). In recent years, there has been a growing industry through commercial
websites, such as Airbnb and Vrbo, to allow homeowners to rent the residential properties they own to
homestayers when they are not present. There is a growing precedence among local municipalities for the
regulation of such rentals under existing applicable state laws. While nothing in these proposed regulations would
prohibit a homeowner from renting their property out in such a manner, it would set regulations to ensure that the
rented property is registered with the Town and that the home has been inspected for public health and public
safety concerns. Registering a property with the Town will allow the Town quick access to relevant information in
an emergency, or on other important occasions, where issues might develop at the property and require timely
communication with the owner of the property. As a matter of public policy, inspections of registered properties
would also allow the Town to ensure that these commercially available residences are safe for the short-term
tenants renting them. While there would be no fees for these short-term rental registrations and inspections, there
will be a revenue stream for the Town through the levying of a 6% tax on the rental fee for each daily renting of a
property in the same way that the Town generates tax revenue through meals in restaurants, stays at hotels, or
rides through ridesharing services. The article will also set the terms for enforcing violations of these regulations.
The Town is also prepared to work with the short-term rental online marketplace companies, who are already
prepared to cooperate with local governments on the enforcement of local regulations of this kind. Article 30 will
allow safe short-term rentals, strengthen the communication between the Town and the relevant homeowners, and
generate a revenue stream for the Town.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
79Source page 80
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING – MAY 8, 2023
ARTICLE 31
APPROPRIATE FUNDS TO MEET EXPENSES FOR NEXT FISCAL YEAR (FY24)
Article 31 To see what sums of money the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from Free Cash,
transfer from any available funds or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute to meet the expenses of the next
fiscal year starting July 1, 2023 and ending June 30, 2024 for the various Town Boards, Committees, Departments
and Agencies, or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
Article 31 – MOTION 1
MOVED: That the following sums of money be transferred to the General Fund in Fiscal Year
2024 in order to fund the Town’s annual operating budget:
TRANSFER FROM AMOUNT PURPOSE
AMBULANCE SERVICE $1,136,000 FIRE DEPARTMENT
WATER ENTERPRISE FUND 809,769 FIXED COSTS
PLYMOUTH RUBBER DIF FUND 570,908 DEBT SERVICE
SOLAR FACILITY 450,000 TOWN-WIDE ELECTRICITY
SEWER ENTERPRISE FUND 391,323 FIXED COSTS
AMBULANCE SERVICE 181,650 DEBT SERVICE
SCHOOL FOOD SERVICE 160,500 SCHOOL COSTS
RINK ENTERPRISE FUND 41,252 FIXED COSTS
GREENLODGE STREET PARKING FEES 25,000 EXECUTIVE OFFICE
SALE OF LOTS/GRAVES 10,000 CEMETERY MAINTENANCE
BOND PREMIUM FUND 8,321 DEBT SERVICE
CEMETERY PERPETUAL CARE (EXPENDABLE) 5,000 CEMETERY MAINTENANCE
TOTAL $3,789,723
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Article 31 – MOTION 1
DISCUSSION: This is a procedural motion to transfer funds from various sources to partially fund the general
operating budget.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
Article 43 – MOTION 2
MOVED: That the following sums of money listed in the Finance Committee Request Column of
the Operating Budget by Voting Category and Enterprise Funds tables be raised and appropriated from
the FY 2024 tax levy and other general revenues of the Town along with revenue sources listed in
Motion 1.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
Article 43 – MOTION 2
DISCUSSION: Please see the Finance Committee Report to the Town of Canton for ATM 2023 at the front of this
warrant for a discussion of the FY 2024 operating budget.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
80