Reading, MA — Several residents spoke to the Select Board during public comment on Tuesday regarding MBTA plans to construct a new 4,500-foot-long side rail line just north of Reading Depot. The proposed sideline would allow train engines to turn around and head back south again on the primary line. Resident Tom Coldero, who lives on Vine Street, shared maps and photos that show where the new rails are proposed and their proximity to schools, homes, recently improved wetlands, and the Frank Tanner senior housing area.
Coldero also reported that the MBTA has stated that engines might be idling on the new tracks for an hour at a time. He proposed that the MBTA be influenced to use the existing side rails near the industrial and commercial areas between Ash Street and Walkers Brook Drive instead of constructing the new rail. The existing side rails are about 4,000 feet long and would require train engineers to walk ten minutes between the sites.
Resident Pat Crowley stated that while the issue has arisen as a Conservation Commission issue, it is a town issue. She also noted that what the MBTA is proposing is not an “essential government function” but is a “nice to have” add-on. Resident Patty McGrath shared what she believes could be the impact of the trains idling on the new track on the health of residents who would be near the proposed tracks.
“This attempt would have no positive impact as we see it . . . why not put it in a location that is industrial and already exists?” McGrath stated.
Conservation Administrator Chuck Tirone informed the board that the Conservation Commission will continue hearing on the issue at its regular meeting on Wednesday. The Select Board also intends to discuss its next steps at a future meeting.
Eagle Scout Awards & FY25 Classification Plan
The Select Board voted 5-0 to approve the Fiscal Year 2025 Classification plan, then recognized recent Eagle Scout recipients – Alexander Downer, Charles Weld, Everett Nelson, John House, Joshua Boran, and Michael Young.
Senior Property Tax Worker Program
The Select Board also voted 5-0 to approve amendments to the policy regarding the senior property tax work-off program. The intent of the changes, Director of Elder and Human Services Chris Kowalski explained, is to re-ignite the program in Reading. Kowalski continued, sharing that the program allows seniors to volunteer in various positions in town in order to receive a reduction in their property tax bill. According to Senior Volunteer Coordinator Janet Dubow, the current program has only had one participant since the COVID shutdowns, pays only eight dollars an hour, and needs to be reinvigorated.
Reading-Senior-Property-TaxThe new program will initially only be open for ten positions at fifteen dollars an hour for up to 100 hours a year, which calculates to a possible $1,500 reduction in a person’s property taxes. Additionally, the minimum income requirements for potential participants have been increased to encourage greater participation. Kowalski shared that the Department of Public Works, the school department, the senior center, and the Office of Equity have all expressed interest in having the volunteers participate. The new rates will not require any additional funding from the municipal budget in the current fiscal year, though Dubow hopes the program will expand in coming years.
Performance Review of Town Manager Matt Kraunelis
The Select Board concluded its open meeting by giving Town Manager Matt Kraunelis his formal review. Several members noted areas requiring some improvement as Kraunelis moves into his second year as Town Manager. Member Mark Dockser shared his hopes that Kraunelis will improve on what Dockser referred to as “areas of leadership” in the coming year. Member Christopher Haley affirmed Dockser’s notion, stating that communications also need to improve. “We should be hearing about things from you,” Haley added.
Member Karen Herrick applauded Kraunelis’ team building amongst the staff and stated that “you need to be a champion” regarding his leadership on upcoming projects such as Killam Elementary School and a new senior and community center. Both member Melissa Murphy and chair Carlo Bacci affirmed Dockser’s words, with Bacci also noting that most of the department heads were present in support of Kraunelis. Bacci shared that he hopes for more engagement from Kraunelis during meetings.
Both Police Chief David Clark and Fire Chief Greg Burns spoke in support of Kraunelis’ leadership, particularly regarding his trust of the staff. “A great leader does not need to be on the front page of the newspaper,” Clark noted.
The board adjourned to an executive session at 9:30 pm to discuss several issues, including the terms for a new contract with Kraunelis.
