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Current Governor's Council Rep forged Governor's Signature, and could be getting lifelong pension---funded by YOU!

Watch this video!

(paid political ad)
Jubinville for Governor's Council
www.votejubinville.com

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Assessor: Values Posted Online

Assessor Paula Keefe tells Snyder's Stoughton that assessment information, available at the Library and Town Hall, is now online.

Says Keefe: "The easiest way to access the info is to select the town, then the street, then click on the parcel i.d. number.  The assessors' staff will be able to help direct people who have a problem with this."  

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Morrissey Pushes Sex Offender Law Changes

Senator Michael W. Morrissey (Quincy-D), candidate for Norfolk County District Attorney, in a hand delivered letter pressed Gov. Deval Patrick to immediately sign legislation closing loopholes in Jessica’s Law and attach an emergency preamble so that the bill will take effect on his signature. Typically, bills do not become law until up to 90 days after they are signed by the Governor. Morrissey said, “we should not have to wait one more day to expand the scope of Jessica’s Law and require sex offenders to register.”

 

“This bill is crucial to the public safety of the citizens of the Commonwealth, by closing these loopholes and having it take effect immediately, we are further ensuring the safety of our children from sexual predators,” Morrissey said. “I hope the Governor recognizes that having this bill become law as soon as it is signed is necessary for the protection of the lives and safety of the people of the Commonwealth.

 

Senator Michael Morrissey announced that the Senate has passed the legislation in record time to close loopholes in Jessica’s Law, designed to require sex offenders to register after conviction. The legislation, which languished in the House since January of 2009 until its passage on Tuesday, was unanimously approved in the Senate on the same day it entered the chamber. “I’m proud that my Senate colleagues, responded so quickly in passing this important legislation,” said Morrissey.

 

The bill amends the 2 year old Jessica’s Law to make sure no one falls through the cracks and ensures those convicted will be required to register.

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D.A. Candidate Holding Community Coffee Chats

Michael Chinman, a Democratic candidate for Norfolk District Attorney, will hold community coffee meetings on Monday, Aug. 2nd, from 8:30-10 a.m., at Zachary’s Breakfast and Lunch, 945 Washington St., Stoughton; and on Wednesday, Aug. 4, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Maxie’s Deli, 117 Sharon St., Stoughton.

Chinman was an Assistant District Attorney in Middlesex County until he resigned his position in March to run for Norfolk District Attorney. He has worked as a prosecutor for 15 years, the last seven of which he was assigned to the Child Abuse Unit, prosecuting the worst crimes committed against children. Chinman also spent six years on the search warrant team, responsible for responding 20 hours a day to crime scenes and police requests for assistance. He graduated from Boston University School of Law where he was Editor-in-Chief of the Law Review. He lives in Milton with his four children.

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Boykin Flexes Fincom Muscle on Fire Station Cleanup

(story)

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Water Rates---up 3%
Sewer Rates--up 10%

for fiscal 2011

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Bennett Resigns over "Bridget"

(www.bridgetthemidget.com)

Bridget Powers of Riverside County in California was at the center of an incident that resulted in the resignation of Stoughton Police officer Richard Bennett. The officer, who was among more than a dozen officers honored last month for their work in solving two murders, submitted a resignation letter to Stoughton Police Chief Paul Shastany the end of last month. Shastany passed it to the hiring authority---Town Manager Frank Crimmins--who immediately accepted the resignation.

Chief Shastany tells Snyder's Stoughton that he made it clear the day he came as to the way he wanted to handle regular liquor checks and calls to Club Alex's, a strip club on Route 138. "I told officers that no one goes in there alone. The appearance of impropriety IS impropriety. I want the calls there on the log, and I want officers like guided missiles---to do their job without stopping and ogling. I communicated that quite clearly to the members of the department. This officer went on his own, against three weeks of instruction on what his Chief wanted." Bennett evidently posed for a photo with the diminutive 3'9" porn star outside the club, in full police uniform, according to Shastany.

Chief Shastany was very proud of the way his department responded. "I've been trying to teach accountability. Talk is cheap, Action counts. More than five officers brought the situation to their commanding officers. Some were furious." The Chief spoke with Bennett, and Bennett lied to him. "If you lie to me, it's the path to nowhere. If they aren't truthful, they're gone. He was smart. He resigned."

On the other reason for Bennett's leaving: "This can be a life and death business," Shastany said. "Modifying your weapon without permission of the Chief is clear disregard for the most important function we have--to serve and protect. It is unacceptable."

Shastany's action contrasts with what the town has gone through in the past. The town suffered through criminal investigations and charges against police officers, and it was tough to get them out the door. This was an administrative charge, and the officer was out the door in ten days. The Chief said that "It's all about personal discipline. It's my sense he lacked it. We need to hold ourselves accountable for small things, too. I can tell you one thing---it is going to be tough to get hired by this department. We will fully vet all applicants, and will hire only the best and brightest. Maybe 25% of all applicants will make it. But, I will tell you one thing. We can't use officers who lie. They have zero credibility. You lie, you die in this business." From the Stoughton Police Facebook page: "Officer Bennett was the subject of an internal review based on non-criminal policy violations and decided it would be best for him and the town to separate from service. We wish him well in his future endeavours."

Town Manager Frank Crimmins, a former First Justice in the Stoughton District Court, didn't want to say much about the Bennett situation. "I had an employee who tendered a resignation, and I had no problem accepting it."   As for the news media flying with this story (it has already been featured on Channel 7, Channel 25, and 96.9 FM Talk), he added,"We take the good with the bad. We have been open and transparent. Most of the time, it's a good day. But, we let the chips fall where they may. As far as I'm concerned, this incident is already in the past."

George "Gigi" Alexopolous, owner of Club Alex's, must be psychic. He had already booked Bridget "by popular demand" to return August 26-28 for another set of shows. Here's betting that no Stoughton Police officers in uniform will be posing for pictures with her!

As for former Officer Bennett, he told the Boston Herald, ""A part of me wants to say, 'Where was the news when I pulled someone out of a burning car last year?You know all the good things you do, and I'm going to be remembered for one stupid decision. It just sucks."

(by Mark Snyder/ <c> 2010 by snydersstoughton.com. Posted @ 1 p.m. on 7/20/10. Updated @ 4:50 p.m.)

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Town Looking for Additional Revenue

After Town Meeting voted to pass the 2011 budget, Town Manager Frank Crimmins began searching for additional revenue to try to pay for some of the items, outside the budget, that Town Meeting had approved. He tells Snyder's Stoughton that the town is applying for grants to help pay for roads, sewer, water, drainage, downtown improvements through South Coast Rail mitigation, capitol expenditures, and to renovate or repair a number of town and school properties. Crimmins is looking "outside the box." In addition to having a myriad of departments trying to garner grants, he added, "We have the largest inventory of real estate parcels in the town's history. We have 550 parcels, and several are used by the town now. With tax liens and other reasons for default status, we find ourselves loaded up. We're looking at doing a complete inventory of all properties, to see how they may fit into the future plans of the town, or if we can auction some off for additional one-time revenue."

Crimmins said that he'd know more next month, after they started sifting through the properties, checking titles, etc. Selectman John Anzivino requested a list in writing of all available parcels. One individual who attended Tuesday's selectmen's meeting, Alan Cline, said he'd already written a letter to Crimmins, stating his interest in buying an adjacent property, and trying to find out how much he could obtain it for. Crimmins said that he had numerous inquiries from citizens interested in buying parcels that were town-owned and adjacent to their own.

Stoughton Media Access Corporation, the organization running local access cable in Stoughton, is currently renting space in Easton, and is contemplating renting space in Stoughton on Tosca Drive. SMAC Executive Director Steve Innis and SMAC Board Member Steve Bates came to the Board of Selectmen looking for a town-owned parcel of land to build on. It remains to be seen if one of those empty parcels could be donated to SMAC as the site to build a new studio for the residents of Stoughton. Selectmen John Stagnone, the President of SMAC, has recused himself from the discussion.

 

(Posted on 7/20/10 @ 7 p.m.)

 

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First Reported Here : STOUGHTON DISTRICT COURT
MAY BE CLOSED BY STATE

Lynda M. Connolly, Chief Justice of the Massachusetts District Court, said today that due to budget cuts, three area courts were proposed to be closed. The District Courts in Wareham, Hingham and Stoughton were targeted for closure. If it stands, this is devastating news for the Town of Stoughton. Residents who have court cases have the convenience of a local court, and friendly faces. The police department has an officer working inside for prosecutions. If the court closed, it would increase the costs of police testimonies and participation, as the nearest court would be in Wrentham, 15 miles away. In addition, those looking for justice in small claims court would also have to travel additional miles. The number of people who come to Stoughton each day for court---defendents, attorneys, court employees, etc---support local businesses, like restaurants. Presiding Justice the Honorable Richard Savignano, was given the news this on Monday by Judge Connolly. The Court Relocatiom Committee, appointed by Robert Mulligan, the Chief Justice for Administration and Management has the power to temporarily close selected courts. But, to permanently close them, they'd need the have the approval of the Legislature. Sources say that all employees of the Stoughton District Court would be tranferred to other courts in the State system. No layoffs were announced or planned.

Stoughton Town Manager Francis Crimmins, the former Presiding Justice at Stoughton District Court, tells Snyder's Stoughton: "We're busier in Norfolk County than in Brookline, for instance. But, they seem to have more political clout. This has been going on for some time now. The judicial branch of government has not been adequately funded. There is a lot of economic activity generated by the courthouse. I think the budget deficit is real, and the judicial budget statewide was cut. The probation department has also had funding issues. But, the final decision has not been made. I'd like to see concerned residents stand up for the town and its court house."

For many reasons it's a good idea to keep it here, according to Police Chief Paul Shastany. He told Snyder's Stoughton, "We'd have to send police officers at added expense, in times of shrinking budgets. It also will take officers away from time at work on the street. It would potentially tie up officers for a longer period of time, taking officers off the street. The judge in this community is in a far greater position to understand the unique nature of the community. Being in Wrentham, for instance, there's a disconnect. The initial reason for a district court is that it is community-based justice. We'd lose that here. If you look at the numbers heard in this court, it is a very busy court. It has a very heavy case load. It has certainly justified its existence. With the economics of this town, from transportation to restaurants in town, it's situated perfectly. Moving it doesn't benefit the community. After analysis, maybe they'll realize its not in trhe best interest of the community by shutting it down."

Peter Nellos, owner of nearby Chuck and Cheese House of Pizza on Washington Street, is saddened by the news. "I get 10 to 15 people a week from the court coming in for lunch and early dinner. Many come in to take food out." Joe Crowley, owner of Stelio's Pizza House on Central Street, says he gets some of their employees in his place. "That would be a shock if they closed it. Everyone in the area would be negatively affected," he said.

Gerry Goulston, owner of Page's Groceries on Pearl Street adds,. "There is so much activity there every day. It would affect us tremendously. In addition, it's a service that we feel is necessary. We use it all the time, as do all the area police departments. It serves the community. It's a grassroots thing. I don't have their total budget picture, but I don't think it's right."

UPDATE: July 14 @ 5 p.m.:

Informational Meeting at Stoughton District Court on July 14th (Hank Herbowy photo)

Stoughton District Court First Justice Richard Savignano hosted an informational meeting at the Court on July 14 and filled in interested community members, attorneys, local elected officials, police officials and others on the Court Relocation Committee's preliminary recommendations for temporary relocations and consolidations. As first reported on this site, Stoughton's court is listed for possible relocation. In a related development, it was also reported that the Court Relocation Committee recommended moving the Norfolk Juvenile Court from Dedham to the Stoughton District Court site. The Committee, put together by the Honorable Robert Mulligan, the Chief Justice for Administration and Management, is comprised of individuals from the North Shore and Boston. It was formed in February of 2010. No one south of Boston is on this Committee.

Judge Savignano urged caution for concerned residents. He said it was a four stage process. Only stage one---the recommendations of the Court Relocation Committee--has been done. Stage two is a CJAM recommendation. Stage three would involve public hearings as part of the process. The fourth stage would be the final announcement of closures, relocations, and consolidation. "This is only a list to be considered for relocation or closure. I have complete confidence and total trust that our court will be treated fairly, appropriately, and openly like all the facilities on that list. I have the highest regard for those on the Court Relocation Committee, and Justices Connolly and Mulligan." Justice Savignano said that "due to budgetary shortfalls the relocations will be moving along more rapidly."

The Stoughton District Court serves four towns--Stoughton, Avon, Canton and Sharon. If it were even temporarily closed, cases would be moved to Dedham and Wrenthan, adding additional expense for each town, and taking away their local legal representation. Selectmen and Police Chiefs from all four towns attended the public hearing. State Senator Brian Joyce (D-Milton), who represents all four towns, outlined the hardships a closing would result in, and together with State Senator Michael Morrissey (D-Quincy, and a candidate for Norfolk County District Attorney), they even discussed putting up a potential legislative fight, if it came down to a closure. State Rep. Joe Driscoll (D-Braintree, and a candidate for Norfolk District Attorney) also recommended Justice Mulligan "look to other solutions to addressing your operating expenses."

Faces in the crowd included Police Chief Paul Shastany, Police Sgt. Tom Murphy, Selectmen Steve Anastos and John Anderson, Grocery Store titans Steve and Gerry Goulston, Town Manager Frank Crimmins, and Legislative Aide Ted Philips (for Reps. Kafka and Galvin). Rep. Kafka told Snyder's Stoughton, "I thought that the show of support for the Court today, evidenced by the meeting's attendance, was very encouraging, and I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Legislature and the Judiciary to finding a rational, lasting resolution to this problem."

Regional Administrator of Justice Paul Dawley said, "This is not notice of a court closing. It merely places the court on a list for consideration. This is the beginning of the process."

I'd agree with the words of State Rep. Joseph Driscoll (D-Braintree), who wrote, "The Stoughton District Court is essential to the administration of justice in the region, and equally important to the local economy.

For the people of the four-town area, let's hope justice truly prevails---and Stoughton and its neighbors get to keep their local brand of personalized judicial service.

(posted on July 13, 2010 @ 1:50 p.m. Updated on July 13 @ 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., and July 14 @ 8 p.m.)

PUBLIC HEARING: August 12 @ 5 p.m. @ Brockton District Court. Be there to show your opposition!

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CUMBERLAND FARMS ON TURNPIKE STREET ROBBED @ GUNPOINT

(story here)

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BASH BUSTED ON CURTIS STREET

(story here)

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BUILDING DEPARTMENT WELCOME: "BACK AT 4"

Calls and emails to Snyder's Stoughton on Monday, July 12, indicated that they were unable to do any business with the building department on that day. So, Snyder's Stoughton made the treck to town hall at 2:30 p.m. to check out the situation. We found the department empty, and a hand written note on the counter which read, "Back at 4." Department secretary Mary Martin is on vacation. Building inspector David Tonis has retired. Town Manager Fran Crimmins, contacted by Snyder's Stoughton about the situation, said that, "We were trying to prepare for Mary's vacation. We had a senior volunteer lined up to cover some of the hours. Unfortunately, she unexpectedly got hurt. Bob Grover, our interim building inspector, has been working hard.We have some hot items that we need to wrap up. Inspections have already been scheduled, and they take Bob out of the office." Crimmins says that Grover is doing a great job. "He sent out enforcement letters last week. No one can remember the last time they were sent." Meanwhile, developers and homeowners trying to do business with the town may have a difficult time. "We're thin everywhere," Crimmins said, "This week and next week, too. But, we're working on it."

(Posted on July 20, 2010 @ 5 p.m.)

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ON THE SEARCH FOR REVENUE

 

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SCOTT HERSEE NAMED TO REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY;

What is Authority's Goals for Coming Year?

The Board of Selectmen and Stoughton Redevelopment Authority named Scott Hersee Tuesday night (7/6/10) to fill the remainder of Deborah Sovinee's term on the S.R.A., until the next election. Sovinee is now a member of the Stoughton School Committee and had stepped down from the SRA, where she had served as Chairman. Hersee, Mark Joyce, Paul O'Leary, and Jack Dembrowsky had all applied for the position. Cynthia Walsh nominated Joyce, and Dr. Roberta Camacho nominated Hersee. Hersee edged out Joyce, 6-3.

Hersee, a Bay Road resident, owns Hersee Excavating and Demolition, and is also a developer. He has plans to develop the former New England Furniture building on Wyman Street into a retail and residential complex. The Villages at Ames Pond was developed by H & R Construction, a partnership of Scott Hersee and George Rudnick. Together they have developed in excess of $40 million of real estate over the past 15 years. Their projects in Stoughton also include Layton Estates, and Elizabeth Estates. Their company recently began construction at Peters River Residences, a 36-unit condominium project in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. Developers of office and office/warehouse space, Scott and George bring in excess of 50 years combined experience in real estate management and development. Hersee has already submitted plans to redevelop the old New England Furniture building at the end of Wyman Street, across from Whiplash, into a commercial and residential property called "Morton Square." The project is scheduled for a Planning Board hearing on July 22.

The Stoughton Redevelopment Authority has their work cut out for them. Particularly, they must deal with a decaying downtown, featuring a number of empty storefronts. Former SRA Chair Deborah Sovinee (who is now on the school committee) took some time to speak with Snyder's Stoughton about what lies ahead for the Authority.

"I think the SRA needs to work on its relevancy as a board. Are they going to be proactive or reactive? The State gives local authorities the power that can be used, in this case, to transform the downtown, or help with North Stoughton, what I consider the 'golden egg' of Stoughton. We should be aiming toward positive development of the area. We need a type of development that residents don't consider negative. We need to look at how the land is being used. Could land be combined to bring in companies with higher paying jobs? Maybe they could look for a mixed-use that will improve residents lives. How about a destination resort with a water park? People need to think of uses for this valuable land more practively, away from big box retailers."

As for the downtown blight, Sovinee said, "we need to start with a small project, like the train station or the empty auto parts store and partner with a developer. It will become one of the puzzle pieces to a complete downtown revitalization. The Redevelopment Authority could also play a role in redeveloping prime property downtown occupied by the post office. They don't need all the space they take up. They no longer sort mail there. They don't particularly use all that land. The SRA has hundreds of thousands of dollars to help develop it, and the town planner could apply for grants, and help to market the town. There is enormous potential there."

Sovinee, a museum exhibit designer by trade, thinks the Redevelopment Authority should use its financial resources, and the authority granted by the State, as a way to help the town. "We also need to make sure the dump is properly capped and closed up, so that it is not a blight on the town."

Redevelopment Authority Chairman Barry Crimmins tells Snyder's Stoughton that the key to redeveloping the downtown could be the South Coastal Rail extention. "I'm interested in building from Stoughton Center down Rt. 138 to the Easton line. That Southeast Corridor has a lot of potential. If the South Coastal rail is built, and a station is made at Roche Brothers Plaza, as has been mentioned, then there is great potential for development in that area. If there is to be any redevelopment downtown---for instance utilizing the post office building for redevelopment---then the Redevelopment Authority would certainly be a player. There's a statutory process that must be followed. We'd probably participate along with the planning board, town planner and the South Coastal Rail Advisory Committee. A whole process has to be followed, including hiring a redeveloper."

As for North Stoughton, Crimmins says that it is mostly built out. The final parcel is the plan for 240 apartments behind the Courtyard Marriott that the Hanover Companies purchased from Conroy Development. There's also a 42,000 s.f. pad that was approved adjacent to the Target Store. But, there's always potential for redevelopment of a previous business and fashioning it into something different. For instance, the old Liberty Mutual property now houses Target and TGI Fridays."

When asked about the downtown revitalization, Town Planner Joe Laydon had a lot to say. Here's what he wrote: "The Board will also sponsor a meeting where the results of the visioning workshop are presented to residents of town. This project, undertaken by funds the town received from MassDOT in conjunction with the South Coast Rail Project, will provide a macro view of the downtown area and identify how the redevelopment of Stoughton could look with input received from the public and new infrastructure such as road and public parking. It was the Board's intent that this project would provide the town with a vision for its downtown to pursue with or without the expansion of the rail. The Visioning project is the first phase in a more strategic plan for determining a future for the downtown area.  The Planning Board, at its recent meeting, voted to support the submission of a new grant application that will look to conduct a commercial and residential market analysis for the downtown.  This study will examine the existing and potential commercial market for the downtown.  It will look at the types of businesses existing and identify what types of businesses may be an appropriate fit for the downtown.  In addition, the study will be able to tell us how much business the downtown area can support so we don't under estimate or over estimate commercial demand.  Connected with that will be a residential market analysis that will look at additional opportunities for residential development downtown.  The two go hand in hand since successful downtowns need a critical mass of residential development to draw support from.  Businesses just can't rely on drive-by traffic. With these two studies, the Town will then be able to start to pursue working with entities such as the Redevelopment Authority, MassDevelopment, and the State to address the condition of the downtown.  It is pretty easy for us to say we want more activity, more businesses, more revenue from the downtown.  But if we don't have a road map and a vision on where we want to be 2 years from now or 10 years from now, we won't be able to be strategic in the redevelopment of out town center."

Selectman John Stagnone sent his opinion on the subject on July 14. He writes, "Stoughton has a lot of potential to change it’s downtown with or without the rail extension and we still have a lot of potential for new and redevelopment in North Stoughton. As a former 9-year member of the Planning Board and chairman of the planning sub-committee of the South Coast Rail Advisory Committee (SCR), the downtown has been of interest to me. The South Coast Rail Committee at its June 30th meeting discussed the future train station location as well as conceptual plans for the downtown. The planning committee has been working for more than a year now on possible new roadways in the downtown, new and redevelopment potential of the downtown. At this meeting the SCR committee voted unanimously to bring our plans/recommendations to the Board of Selectmen and have requested to be on their July 20th agenda. The conceptual plans we have put together can be a starting point for the town to build off of and ties into the studies being funded by EOT. As the decision on the whether or not the Stoughton route is chosen by the Army Corp. of Engineers, we as a town need to have a vision and the SCR advisory committee has done just that. Our focus was to come up with a plan based on already having commuter rail service, but also one that would work should the rail extension come to Stoughton. North Stoughton still has a lot of undeveloped land and potential for a lot of redevelopment. To ensure that the town and the property owners get the best development possible, we need to create/update our Master Plan for the town as well as our zoning by-laws. It has been more than a year and half since Zoning Board member Robert O’Regan went before the Board of Selectmen, the Planning Board and the Redevelopment Authority pressing this need. The Selectmen need to stay on top of this and monitor the progress and provide support to the boards and town planner to get this done. By having a vision and zoning by-laws that reflect that vision, will provide the town boards with the tools necessary when considering future development. Having a vision and friendlier zoning regulations can also expedite the permitting process, making Stoughton more desirable than other communities to do business with. Over the past couple of years we have had more professionals volunteering for town boards. A lot of these professionals had degrees/experience in planning, architects and engineers. These individuals given the opportunity could have provided a new energy to some our town boards. I am looking into other ways to have these residents use their experience to make Stoughton better than it already is."

 

(posted on 7/6/10 @ 9:30 p.m. Updated on 7/12/10 @ 2:30 p.m., and again on 7/13/10 @ 2 p.m. Updated on July 14 @ 11 a.m.)

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Longtime Weymouth resident and Republican Bill Farretta announced his candidacy for Norfolk County Sheriff. For the last 21-years Farretta has been a correctional officer at the Norfolk County Jail. He also served in the United States Army and received an honorable discharge. “I am a law enforcement professional, not a politician,” Farretta said. “I know what works and what doesn’t work at the jail and can make the necessary changes to ensure that Norfolk County families have the safest, secure and cost-efficient jail.” Farretta supports the House bill to have inmates pay $5 a day to defray their cost for incarceration. The Campaign Pasta Dinner Kickoff will be held Thursday, July 15, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Weymouth Elks Club. Invited guests include State Senator Bob Hedlund, treasurer candidate Karyn Polito, congressional candidates Jeff Perry, Joe Malone and Raymond Kasperowicz. Suggested Donation is $30. Call 781-335-3546 for more information.  He is running against incumbent Norfolk County Sheriff Michael Bellotti, a Democrat.

 

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SMAC MOVING BACK TO STOUGHTON;
LOOKING FOR ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

Stoughton Media Access Corp., the nonprofit local access organization for Stoughton, is on the move. Currently, SMAC rents space in the Easton Cable Access facility at 50 Oliver Street in Easton. The town has no control over use of studio time,. It has been difficult to expand locally-produced programming, and to bring in volunteers and "members." The Board, led by President John Stagnone, has been trying to acquire a parcel of town-owned land to build a facility in Stoughton. But, as a temporary measure (that could become a permanent one), Stagnone has recommended renting a 4000 s.f. space at 300 Tosca Drive, across from the new Gold's Gym for $1650 per month. It would be a one year lease. "We'd have to do painting, cleanup, and put in new rugs, at our expense. But, they'd maintain the heating and AC units. It's more space than we need. This would buy us at least a year," he told the Board Thursday night. He added that year two of the lease would be $2000 per month. SMAC currently pays ECAT (the Easton Access) about $1000 per month for use of their facilities. Their agreement is through December, if needed. But, Stagnone thinks that they may be able to get into the Stoughton location by September.

Director Allan Mills wasn't 100% behind the rental idea. "I'd like to see something permanent. We're spinning our wheels. I'd rather see us building something, or having a more permanent home." Mills said, for instance, that the temporary facility would not be able to do any "live" shows. Currently, Dick Murphy's Local News show is broadcast live Monday nights to Easton, and in Stoughton on Tuesday nights via tape. Stagnone said he'd like to build something, as well. "We're still pursuing that land to build on. Government is slow, and the town manager has been very busy."

The only locally-produced (in Easton) shows are The Local News, Community Forum, and Snyder's Stoughton. Bate Papi with Shirley Farber (which was once recorded in the old Easton studios) is now recorded out of town. So, if SMAC moves to Stoughton, Murphy would stay in Easton (he likes it there), and only two shows would be produced in Stoughton, pending recruitment of new shows. Executive Director Steve Innis said that, "In order to get more people active in local cable, we need a location of our own."

On another front, SMAC has advertised for an assistant to Innis. Innis, who makes over $60,000, is planning on interviewing candidates for the position, which will pay from $30-35,000. SMAC has purchased two portable camera systems, and a pro 8 Mac-based system for processing graphics. It's a better system than the one currently in use in Easton, according to the directors.

In another action on Thursday night, the Board voted to hire the CPA firm of Allan Katz, a former Stoughton resident and former Zoning Board of Appeals Chairman, who now resides in Easton. His office is in Stoughton. Katz & Cancellieri will handle tax returns and the books for the nonprofit corporation. Stagnone, who is also a member of the Board of Selectmen, said he did not want to hire a Stoughton resident for the accounting position.

SMAC President John Stagnone wrote Snyder's Stoughton, "Easton's Board of Directors and their Executive Director have been great to work with, and SMAC has a great working relationship with them. Scheduling of shows has never been a problem. SMAC's limit to meeting more of its goals to create more programming is time constraints of the our executive director Stephen Innis, that is why we are now looking to hire an assistant for Stephen. Finding a permanent home for SMAC is on going, as is finding a temporary studio location in Stoughton. SMAC is still pursuing a town owned site, we met with the Board of Selectmen a couple of months ago, the town planner and next week with the town manager. The process in working with any government body is slower than doing business in the private sector. SMAC has been working closely with the town manager and the BOS on the land proposal, incorporating other long term plans for the same site. So there is no misunderstanding, I told Stephen Innis to wait on requesting a meeting with the town manager because of his busy schedule and the fiscal year end was coming up. We are cautiously optimistic that we will be able come to an agreement with the town for the Washington Street site. We see our role not just as broadcasting local programming, but also as an education facility, providing opportunities for all Stoughton residents and Southeastern Regional High School students to learn television production."

With all due respect to Stagnone, Stoughton is the ugly stepchild in Easton, and the ability to widely recruit new volunteers, sell memberships, and encourage new shows IS impeded by having an out of town location. The Easton people have been nothing but cooperative with my own show, so I don't write based on that. But, as someone who has helped local access begin in another town, I know what is needed to succeed. And, one of those ingredients, is a hometown studio. Obviously, SMAC's board AGREES with me, or they would not be pursuing temporary space in Stoughton.

Posted on July 2, 2010 @ 12:30 p.m). (Updated on July 5, 2010 2V 11 A.M.)

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ANNUAL INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE PHOTOS

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New England Sinai Board of Directors Appoints Jerald S. Savage, CPA,
Treasurer and Finance Committee Chairman

Jerald S. Savage, CPA of Stoughton, has been appointed Treasurer and Finance Committee Chairman of the Board of Directors for New England Sinai Hospital. He has served on the Board for the past decade, lending his expertise in business, community relations and development . “As Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair he will play a key role in helping guide Sinai’s financial future,” said Sinai President & CEO Judith C. Waterston. The appointment was approved by Hospital Board Members at New England Sinai Hospital’s annual Board Meeting and Dinner, held June 24, 2010 at the Hospital’s main campus in Stoughton.

Mr. Savage is a partner in the accounting firm Wallace, Savage & Davis, PC, located in Stoughton and provides an array of accounting, tax, financial and estate planning services. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants. In addition to serving on the Board at Sinai, Mr. Savage has been a member of the Curry College Board of Trustees since 1996 and is a member of the Town of Stoughton Zoning Board of Appeals. He is also a Past President and Lifetime Board member of the Ahavath Torah Congregation and a Director of The Old Colony YMCA. He and his wife Sheryl live in Stoughton and they have a son, Michael and his fiancée Karen and a daughter, Karen and her husband Tom, as well as a grandson Brody.

New England Sinai Hospital is a 212-bed, non-sectarian, not-for-profit, long-term acute-care hospital with its main campus in Stoughton, MA and inpatient satellite units at Tufts-New England Medical Center in Boston and Caritas Carney Hospital in Dorchester. Recognized as a regional leader in pulmonary, medically complex and acute rehabilitation care, Sinai also offers a wide range of outpatient programs and services. Sinai is a teaching affiliate of Tufts University School of Medicine.

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Flamingos Stolen

The class of 2011 has been running a fundraiser over the last few weeks.  Last night (Friday, June 11), 31 pink plastic flamingos were taken off a Morton St. home.  The money being raised was to support activities for the class of 2011. The class would like the flamingos returned in one piece and there will be no questions asked. If you have any information on the flamingos or have the flamingos– they can be returned to 778 Plain St or email pinkflamingo@shsflamingoflocking.com or call the flaming hot line at 508-807-1607.

 

(Post on June 13 @ 4 p.m.)

UPDATE: 16 were returned after we posted this!

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Stoughton Lions Installs New President

Stoughton Lions Club Held Installation of Officers for 2010-2011at Nocera's Restaurant on June 9.  (l to r) Past president Ed DeFelice; Incoming President Bob Mullen, Installed by Peggy Cahill of Randolph Lions. Guest speaker was Police Chief Paul Shastany. (Hank Herbowy photo)

(Posted on June 12, 2010 @ 5 p.m.)

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SPD Leaders

Stoughton Police Department Executive Officer Lt. Robert Devine, Lt. Michael Blount, and Lt. Francis Wohlgemuth all completed the FBI LEEDA Senior Executive Command Institute. It is all part of Stoughton Police Chief Paul Shastany's plan for extensive training leading to an accreditation of the Department.

(posted on June 12, 2010 @ 5 p.m.)

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Bickerton Sent to Minimum Security Prison

(story)

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Our Sincerest Condolences to the Family and Friends of beloved Stoughton resident, Louise Packard. A co-founder of STOYAC, long-time town meeting member, election tally clerk, Cedar Golf Course Committe member, and active community resident, Louise will be missed by all.

Members of Stoughton Fire Dept. pay honor to Louise (Frye) Packard as her funeral procession drove down Park Street towards the center of town, and her services at First Parish Universalist Church. Donations in Louise’s name may be made to Joslin Diabetes Pediatric Clinic, 1 Joslin Pl., Boston, MA 02215 or Louise Packard Scholarship Fund, c/o Stoughton High School, 232 Pearl St., Stoughton, MA 02072. (photo by JPitta)

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The Face of a Criminal

Story Here

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All Cable Advisory Committee Members Not Coming Back

There are three active members of the Cable Advisory Committee (although you wouldn't know by the town's website, which lists two members---both of whom are NOT on the Committee). This is typical of the way that Committee has been treated since it was re-activated a few years ago. Current Chairman Mark Snyder, Vice Chairman David Asack and member Sharon Fradkin did not request to re-apply for placement on the Committee, So, anyone who applies would pretty much automatically be named to the Committee by the Board of Selectmen. In the past couple of years the Committee did a cable survey (with over 500 respondents), created Stoughton Media Access Committee (SMAC), and requested more to do. Unlike every other local town, the Cable Advisory Committee in this town was iced out of the negotiations for Comcast and Verizon contracts. So, whoever steps onto the Committee will have one responsibility--the annual review of SMAC. The current Board of Selectmen and/or Town Manager could add more responsibilities. I hope the new members have the freedom to really help cable in this town.

 

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Memorial Square Appeals Heard

The Golden and Kundrot families appealed to the Board of Selectmen over a decision by the Memorial Square Committee, regarding their loved ones not being awarded Memorial Squares this year. Veteran’s Agent Mike Payzra and Selectman Cynthia Walsh, both members of the Committee, said each application failed due to one of the policy requirements not being met. Pazyra said, “A lot of consideration has been given in these decisions. If you override the policy, in effect, you have no policy.” Added Walsh: “These squares are put up at taxpayer expense and maintained at taxpayer expense. Those who have stuck it out in town deserve that extra consideration. If you don’t meet all the criteria, you don’t get a square. You have to be an extraordinary veteran to get a memorial square in this town. You have to have lived here a number of years, have done community service for 20 years, and have a family member (who currently resides in Stoughton) apply for the square.” Selectman John Anzivino said, “Not to diminish the applications, but the Board of Selectmen needs to review policy for all, not for one. It would not be prudent for this Board to review individual applications.” Moves by Selectmen John Anderson and John Stagnone to consider overriding the Committee’s policy decisions, were not seconded. Chairman Steve Anastos concluded: “The Memorial Square Committee decision stands, since no action has been taken by this Board.” The families could still appeal to the Memorial Square Committee, and again to the Board of Selectmen.

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STOUGHTON RESIDENTS COMES TOGETHER
TO HONOR TOWN'S VETERANS

Many Stoughton residents enjoyed the long weekend, far way from work. They spent time at the beaches, or went away for a short vacation. For Stoughton’s Veteran’s Agent Mike Pazyra, it was a very long weekend, indeed. After planning everything from re-flagging of graves, to a flag burning ceremony; from a parade, sacred cemetery ceremonies, and three memorial square dedications; Pazyra couldn’t control two things---the weather and the size of the crowd. And, he was worried about both. But, it all went quite smoothly, with clear skies, a warm sun, and throngs of people at Town Hall gathering for the parade and the speakers there.

On Saturday, dozens of children and grandchildren, accompanied by parents and grandparents, went to Holy Sepulcher and Evergreen Cemeteries. Father Joseph McDermott of Immaculate Conception Church led the prayers at Holy Sepulcher. The children all enjoyed getting their flags from Pazyra, and replacing the old flags with shiny new ones at both cemeteries.

Afterwards, the kids went to the VFW Post 1645 and enjoyed coffee and donuts from Dunkin’ Donuts. When tummies were full, and parents were perked up with their cup of java, the official flag-burning ceremony began behind the VFW. Pazyra gave speaking roles to over a dozen children, and they learned of the importance of proper disposal of the flag. Veteran Don Interrante assisted the children placing flags into the fire.

On Memorial Day, the parade got off right on time, at 9 a.m. from the DPW on Central Street. Ceremonies were held at Holy Sepulcher and Pearl Street Cemetery, with the next stop at Town Hall. Rabbi Jonathan Hausman of Ahavath Torah Congregation did the prayer there. World War II hero Charles Large read the list of Stoughton’s soldiers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Mike Beaudette, Stoughton’s graves officer, rang the Liberty Bell at the pronouncement of each name, while former Veteran’s Agent Paul Flynn called out, “Absent, Sir,” to each.

Julie Hinds, whose husband Sean was deployed to Afghanistan on February 26, 2010, took the microphone from Pazyra and told the crowd about her son, Ryan. He was born on March 18, and Sean has never seen him, except in a photo. Julie told Snyder’s Stoughton that she, and her nearly four year old daughter Madison, speak regularly to Sean through email, and the occasional phone call. She said Sean was excited that the town was taking time to recognize him during their Memorial Day gathering. Sean Hinds is expected to arrive back in Stoughton by October. Meanwhile, Julie says that Madison is kept in good spirits by her “daddy doll,” an 18” male doll with a picture of Sean, and when you press a button, it plays Sean saying, “It’s your best friend daddy. I love you and I miss you, and I can’t wait to see you again.” Snyder’s Stoughton intends to cover Sean’s homecoming. Pazyra also honored Sam Angert, a 2007 Stoughton High grad, who is recovering at Bethesda Naval Hospital from severe wounds suffered from an IED in Iraq. Watch the video of Mike’s presentation here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E4TcD6ezUI

After the parade’s conclusion at Evergreen Cemetery, Stoughton Police Chief Paul Shastany read Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address” there. He did a nice job, and had the height going for him. A black top hat, and a fake beard would have brought the illusion to life.

On Monday afternoon, three memorial squares were dedicated. Pazyra said he really appreciates those who attend these ceremonies. “I’m appreciative of those who seem to come to all the dedications. Moderator Howard Hansen and Fire Chief David Jardin haven’t missed one in years. State Senator Brian Joyce took time out to attend two of the ceremonies, and Ted Philips from Rep. Lou Kafka’s office attended all three, as did Town Manager Frank Crimmins, Police Chief Shastany, and Selectmen Cynthia Walsh and John Anderson.” In addition to Anderson and Walsh, Selectmen John Anzivino and John Stagnone also took part in the parade, and some of the other ceremonies. Kafka was in Israel celebrating the birth of his newest grandchild.

The intersection of Pierce and Walnut Streets (near CAPP Playground and the Jones School) was dedicated to Paul C. and Mary J. Killgoar. It was only the second location dedicated to a married couple. The intersection of Dykeman Way and Central Street (next to Central Street Grille and Pizzeria, and across from Christmas Tree Shops Plaza) was dedicated to former Police Chief William F. Gross, and his wife Ann M. Gross. The corner of Central and Brook Streets (adjacent to the new fire station) was dedicated to Earl D. “Bud” McMann. It was a wonderful experience for each family, and for those of us gathered to watch and share in their special days.

Others who were part of various other activities of the Memorial Day weekend, included the award-winning Stoughton High School Black Knights Marching Band, the VFW Color Guard and Firing Detail, the Civil War Re-enactors, Amvets Bear Float, San John’s Filarmonica Society Band, Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts, The Stoughton Police Honor Guard; and David Sheehan from Norfolk County Sheriff Michael Bellotti’s office

(Posted on June 2, 2010 @ 6 p.m. from Stoughton Journal of June 4, 2010).

 

 

 

 

MEMORIAL DAY PHOTO MEMORIES

Video: Story of Local Hero Sam Angert

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Cohen to be Retried on November 15. 2010

(story here)

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Police Training Continues

Congratulations to Sergeants Michael Merola, Paul McCallum, and John Bonney for completing the four-day "Sergeants Leadership Program," sponsored by the Cambridge Police Department. They underwent intense ethics building training, incorporating the latest in leadership, team, and community building skills.

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Hammel Retiring

DPW Superintendent John Batchelder (l) says "Happy Retirement" to Assistant DPW Supt. Billy Hammel at a party at DPW headquarters on Central Street on Friday, May 28. Batchelder said that his preference is always to promote from within. "That has worked out well for us in the past. I'd like to see Jonathan Beder take over Billy's responsibilities with water and sewer. He is licensed for both. Then, I'd look for someone to run Operations. But, I need to speak to the Town Manager, who in turn will speak with the Board of Selectmen, before I can make any official moves." Meanwhile, Hammel will be retiring to his home in Falmouth, and plans to enjoy his boat and the sunshine in retirement." Hammel will actually be "on the books" until mid-August, but with his vacation time, he's done working. Batchelder says he may call upon Hammel even if he's out of the building. "He knows every pipeline in this town. He has 37 years of knowledge stored in his head. I may have to tap it, on occasion."

(Posted on May 28@ 11 a.m.)
Mark Snyder photo

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TOWN MEETING IS OVER

It's hard to believe, but FINALLY, on Night Seven, Annual Town Meeting ended. Wednesday, March 26th, just before 11 p.m. the town meeting accepted all reports and Charles Large made his traditional motion to dissolve the ATM, and it was history. It was not a pretty sight. The sessions were lengthy, numerous amendments were proposed and defeated, and with a 74-article agenda, it was just too much. This is one writer (and town meeting member) who thinks the selectmen should act with more discretion in what they put into the warrant. Articles that come without the proper support materials should not be allowed to be placed on the warrant.

In the final session, members made it illegal for people to smoke marijuana, or ingest or otherwise consume Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) it's active ingredient, in public places. It allows the police to levy a fine of $300 for each offense. Any marijuana burned, smoked, ingested or consumed may be seized, logged as evidence, and destroyed, consistent with Stoughton Police Dept. Policy. In addition to the $300 fine from the Stoughton Police, civil penalties imposed by Massachusetts General Laws 94C Section 32L, would be additional.

A few recodifications of previously passed by-laws and charter adoptions were also acted upon, in compliance with recommendations of the Attorney General's office. A complicated new by-law, dealing with applications for cell towers, was adopted by Town Meeting, 92-15. DPW Director John Batchelder said the new by-laws could enable the town to have cell phone antennas placed on the water towers, and bring in non-tax additional revenue to the town. Eliot Hansen, whose family had proposed a cell tower on their large tract of land on Pleasant Street, behind the Hansen Brothers Print Shop and Store, said he thought the new by-law would eliminate competition from private landowners, and end up with all the towers on town-owned land. He didn't think it was a good thing for Stoughton homeowners, or the town in general. His brother, Moderator Howard Hansen, stepped down for this Article, and Deputy Moderator Bob Mullen ran the hearing, which took up almost two hours in total.

Town Meeting member Paul Stearns walked out on night six, yelling at moderator Hansen for not recognizing him. On the final night, Stearns spoke a few times, more readily recognized by Hansen. Town meeting member and former selectman Joe Mokrisky said he would likely run for Moderator next year against Hansen. "He's never really had tough competition. He may have support at town meeting, but I believe the people in Stoughton would support me. I'll tell you one thing. I would have every appointed person off all boards, and would open it up to anyone to apply. Then, I'd go through each person's resumes, and pick the most qualified candidates," Mokrisky told me the last night of town meeting.

So, another year is in the books for Annual Town Meeting. We'll see next year, in hindsight, if what was accomplished was worth all the long nights and aggrevation.

 

(Posted on March 27@ 6:30 p.m.)

 

 

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TOWN MEETING: NIGHT 6

Monday, May 24 was night six of the seemingly endless Annual Town Meeting. Members, sacrificing the Celtics and Red Sox, as well as the series finale of "24" for their municipal duties, dispatched a number of items. The barely passed by a single vote (85-42, with 2/3 required) to spend $170,000 to pay for a survey, easement drawings, and design improvements for Red Wing Brook, off of York Street. Neighbors in the Pine Street/York Street area have been experiencing water problems since major construction began in 1988 for a Stop & Stop Plaza, and water runoff from the stores there piped into a swail. Then, NSTAR built their substation on adjourning land, compounding the problem. Town Engineer Ben Fehan said that the fix to the problem would run at least a million dollars. His department drew up plans, utilizing town land for a sediment basin, to try to alleviate the problem. But, it turns out that land is not available for that use. Town Meeting member Nancy Munroe, who has been an activist regarding the NSTAR monstrosity, said that NSTAR's state permit requires them to address this issue, and that they have land that would work perfectly as a sediment basin. "They were supposed to donate that portion of their property to the town," Munroe told the audience. Town Meeting member Ed Defelice suggested they fill the basin with bass. "They could offer bass fishing in the retention ponds. The town can make some money selling fishing licenses." Town Meeting member Dr. Roberta Camacho was frustrated with the town spending money to fix problems caused by development. "I'm tired of this town being raped by developers. Stop & Shop and NSTAR made this mess and we are asked to clean it up. NSTAR has a state permit and you can't get any clearer about their responsability. One of our town meeting reps represented Stop & Shop in 1988 (John Morton). We should point our finger at Stop & Shop and NSTAR and make them pay for this for causing trespass and destruction of personal property." Town meeting members felt bad for Ed Finn and other neighbors, some of whom cannot even walk in their backyards, which are underwater. It is clear to this writer that taxpayers shouldn't be paying a dime towards this. Let the two developers, who enriched themselves, pay the bill. When they sold us their bill of goods, they promised the moon and stuck us with the damages. .

Another Fehen request, for $10,000 to pay for all activities required by the State regarding Stormwater regulation compliance, passed 83-43. Call me old fashioned, but I think when the federal or state governments require compliance for anything--whether for schools or municipal governments--they should reimburse the towns, at least some of the costs. It's way out of hand.

Town Meeting continued its investment in sewer infiltration and inflow (I & I). They voted unanimously to borrow $500,000 for continued improvements in the sewer system. The article has become routine the past seven years, as this enables the town to get grants from the MWRA, while also saving on total outflow. Without this, the town would literally be flushing cash down the drain.

Attorney Barry Crimmins, who is also a town meeting member, had requested the town accept a number of easements for water and sewer from his clients, Stoughton E & A LLC, Target Corp., 489 Page Street, LLC, and Stoughton Crossing, Inc. in three different articles. The easements were unanimously accepted.

A move that would have allowed the Board of Selectmen, with input from the School Committee, to decide where to locate polling places, went down by a 22-100 count. Members liked the current arrangement and didn't see any need for change. Lynn Jardin, principal of the Gibbons Elementary School, along with her School Council, had requested that it be looked at. They thought that security, during voting days, is weakended and that it is a safety issues. All schools are locked up tight, except on election day. But, on those days there is a police officer at every polling place.

Changes in deadlines for nomination papers, to comply with state regulations, was requested by Town Clerk Cheryl Mooney. It passed 100-2. And a move that was moot, according to Town Counsel Brian Riley, to eliminate preliminary elections unless there are more than two candidates for each seat, lost 82-19. Voters have already supported that idea, and it will take effect in the 2011 elections.

Also, an extensive new Wetlands Protection by-law, stretching out for many pages in the warrant, and requested by the Stoughton Conservation Commission, passed by an 92-19 vote. Diana Cobb Germain did much of the behind-the-scenes work on this article.

The seventh edition of the Anual Town Meeting is at 7:30 p.m. on May 26 at Stoughton High School Auditorium.

(Posted on May 25, 2010 @ 10 am)

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Police Dept. Awards Commendations

Police Chief Paul Shastany and Executive Officer Lt. Robert Devine announced a list of 16 letters of commendations, awarded to Stoughton Police Department officers, for acts during four serious incidents over a six week period. All were announced on the SPD's Facebook page on March 21st.
They include Sgt. Gurevich, Officer Barrett, and Officer Mellyn for their acts of bravery during the Kontsas murder on February 27, 2010; Det Sgt. Welch and Det. O'Connor for their superior investigation leading to an arrest of the murder suspect within 24 hours; Sgt.Merola, Det Sgt. Welch, Det. O'Connor, Det. Tracey, Officer Bennett, Officer Conforti, and Officer Gagne for their superior performance during the Irving murder investigation leading to the arrest of the suspect eight hours after the event; Officer McNamara and Officer Collins for performing acts of CPR in an attempt to resuscitate an unconscious female on May 2, 2010; Officer Lima and Officer Gagne for being the first two rescuers on scene during a terrible car crash on Rt. 24 on May 2, 2010. These officers located ejected passengers and also performed CPR on injured at an awful scene.

Corrections Department Dog Officer Mark O'Reilly and SPD Dog Officer John Lydstone DEMO at OPEN HOUSE

FOR MORE ON THE OPEN HOUSE, GO TO EVENTS PAGE

OPEN HOUSE STORY IN ENTERPRISE

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Town Meeting: Night 5

The Longest Night---Wednesday, May 19, 2010 may go down as one that felt like one of the longest, most time-wasting nights EVER of Annual Town Meeting. Put it this way, in the first TWO HOURS of the meeting, NOTHING was done. There was motion after motion after motion---causing town meeting member Joe Flynn to claim "motion sickness". Just before my favorite part of the meetings (the cookie break), town meeting members took three quick votes. One more followed. In the end, after getting out near 11 p.m., here's what was done:

*A motion for a design plan, requested by Fire Chief David Jardin for Fire Station #1 (on Freeman Street) for $100,000, went down to defeat, 14-109.

*A motion, by Fire Chief David Jardin, for $100,000, for designs plans for a new fire station on property that was taken by eminent domain by the town for a school, went down to defeat, 7-119.

*A motion, by Town Meeting member Ed DeFelice for $100,000 for design plans for a fire station at the Stoughton National Guard Armory on Pleasant Street, to replace the Freeman Street station, was defeated, 4-115.

(Best argument against these three articles: "We're going about this in a helter skelter way. We don't have a plan. We're asked to vote on this piecemeal."--John Morton)

Motion by Richard Fitzgerald and the Facilities Master Plan Committee, supported by the Town Manager and Board of Selectmen, to do urgent repairs and upgrades on Town Hall, The Freeman Street Fire Station, The Council on Aging/Youth Commission Building, The Police station, and the Clapp Memorial Building, which houses the Stoughton Historical Society. Total to be borrowed was $610,000. Adopted by town meeting, 112-4.

(Posted on May 19 @ 11:30 p.m.)

Next Annual Town Meeting: May 24, 2010 @ 7:30 p.m. at Stoughton High School auditorium.
( Warrant Here)

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DA Keating announces

Indictments in Stoughton murder

 

 

A Norfolk County Grand Jury Tuesday (May 18, 2010) indicted a Randolph man for the murder of Georgios Kontsas in his Mara Circle Stoughton home on Saturday, February 27, 2010, according to Norfolk District Attorney William R. Keating.

“John Rooney was indicted for murder and eight other crimes for this attack,” District Attorney Keating said Wednesday.

The other eight indictments against Rooney, DOB: 7/22/1963, are two counts of Armed Home Invasion (one naming each member of the elderly couple as victim), two counts armed assault in a dwelling (one naming each member of the elderly couple as victim), Armed Assault with Intent to Murder a Person over 60, Armed Assault with Intent to Rob a Person over 60, Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon causing serious bodily injury, and Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon on a person over age 60.

“Massachusetts State Police homicide detectives assigned to the Norfolk District Attorney’s Office and Stoughton Police worked very diligently to follow evidence to Mr. Rooney and place him under arrest the following day,” District Attorney Keating said. “He pled not guilty at his Stoughton District Court arraignment the following morning and was ordered held without bail by Judge Paul Dawley at that time.”

District Attorney Keating said that Rooney’s Superior Court arraignment date had not yet been set. DA Keating has assigned Assistant District Attorney Brian Wilson to prosecute the case.

 (Posted on May 19, 2010 @ 5 p.m. from DA's News Release)

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Founder of Bob's Food Market, Passes @ 76

 

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First Reported Here: FBI PROBE of SPD is OVER

Police Chief Paul Shastany said this morning that he has met with Warren Bamford, agent in charge of the Boston office of the FBI, and the investigation into wrongdoings at the Stoughton Police Department is over. Chief Shastany said he asked Agent Bamford, at a meeting in his Boston office, if were any concerns he should know about regarding anyone within the organization, or are if there are any residual targets or areas he'd need to address. According to Shastany, the FBI was satisfied that "the target was removed, as were others associated with wrongdoing." Shastany said he asked Bamford if any internal issues remained, and he said, "the remaining employees of the Stoughton Police Department are no longer a concern to me or this department." Shastany said he spoke with Bamford about the "department moving forward. We talked about accreditation, training and policy development."

Shastany he said he will remain in touch with the FBI, DEA, State Police, District Attorney and Attorney General's offices. "I'm still engaged. My philosophy is we need to work together with other law enforcement agencies. There's more opportunity that way for self-analysis and inspection." Chief Shastany said his first strategy is being "proactive and engaging with the media. We will talk about what we want to do. We want the public to talk to us. We have a Facebook page, a website, and we will be hosting an open house this weekend." Shastany said the website is interactive, and allows residents to send in compliments or complaints: "We will listen to all concerns and investigate all complaints. We'll deliver a better product by doing this. I want to survey the public. I want to know what they feel we do well, and what we need improvement in. How can we improve our services? Our image? We want to be the best we can be."

Is the past over? Shastany tells Snyder's Stoughton, that, of course, it is not. "I know people are cynical by nature. When police officers have engaged in wrongdoing, it is front page news. We are judged by the actions of a few. We're not forgeting the past. We're using this information to build systems and changes. We have been profiled by the actions of a few, and the majority of good honest police officers have suffered. People think, after reading all the stories about corruption, that every officer is bad. We plan to focus on what is right here. We will recognize officers who do well, like Detective Roger Hardy (who was named Officer of the Year by the VFW Sunday). One day, the residents of this town will put all the corruption in the past. All we ask is for residents to give us a chance," Shastany told Snyder's Stoughton.

Added Executive Officer Lt. Robert Devine, "We're not forgeting about what has happened in here. We use it as a motivator to try to earn the people's trust. We're under no illusions. We all wear the same uniforms, and are sometimes painted with the same brush. We refuse to be labeled by the actions of a few. If residents have concerns about this department, please bring them to us! I've encouraged this through the community policing unit."

Chief Shastany credits the Board of Selectmen and new Town Manager for helping the Stoughton Police Department to move forward and regain the people's trust. "We're moving in a positive direction, and are anxious to earn back our good reputation. Naysayers should come in with any evidence of wrongdoing and we'll investigate it," he said.

Agent Gail Marcinkiewicz of the Boston office of the FBI, when asked to comment on the end of the probe had a familiar comment for Snyder's Stoughton.: "We can't confirm or deny that any probe ever took place." Of course, with one officer going to federal prison, and two others leaving the force, something took place. And, that something is over.

Officer Donna McNamara, president of the Stoughton Police Patrolman's Union, and Sgt. Thomas McNulty, president of the Stoughton Superior Officers IBPO Local 400, sent a joint news release Tuesday, which in part, read, "With the apparent conclusion of the recent FBI investigation into members of this department, we strenuously assure the residents that members of this department are committed to the ideals and goals of proactive community policing. With our current commitment to modern police service and the fresh perspective of Chief Shastany, we will strive to bring you the best service possible. We understand that it is our responsibility to keep each other in check. We only ask that you give our members the benefit of the doubt for remaining loyal to the police service during these challenging times. You will see the department work to regain your trust."

Selectman Vice Chairman Cynthia Walsh was happy to hear the probe is over. "I think it's good news. It's been a long time coming, it appears." Asked how they could repair thair image, Walsh replied, "They just need to keep doing what they've been doing. The phones are always answered; the door is always open. They have been doing their job this whole time."

Chairman of the Board Steve Anastos tells Snyder's Stoughton "it is good news for the town and the police department. It allows to move forward. The new Chief and his staff can focus on his goals to achieve accreditation."

Town Manager Frank Crimmins said, "The Board of Selectmen and I are looking forward to working with the police towards a fair, unbiased and transparent police department. The selectmen and I share the same core values of accountability with the chief of police and we look forward to ushering in a new era at the police department."

Even Ed DeFelice, a frequent police critic on local cable, has seemingly turned his opinion around. "I think it's great what the new chief is doing. He's educating officers, and makes people feel comfortable. He's outgoing, and seems to be making his staff more outgoing. PR is important. He came by the coffee shop the other day with the executive officer and two sergeants, and he picked up the tab for our coffee. I think that kind of thing will work for him bringing people together."

Local cable host Dick Murphy, another long time critic of the police, has also changed his tune. He told Snyder's Stoughton, "I was quite surprised and quite happy that it's over. I interviewed the Chief and he is a very impressive guy. He's refreshing. It's really a new beginning. As for the FBI probe, I was surprised that so many names were bandied about but only three paid the price. I've been on this for ten years, and I look forward to moving on."

I think that Chairman Anastos said it best the day that Chief Shastany was welcomed by 400 people at Stoughton High School, "We can wallow in the transgressions of the past, or we can look ahead with hope and optimism,"

(Posted on 5/18/10 @ 10:30 a.m. Updated @ 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Updated 5/19/10@ 8:12 am)

 

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2010 Selectman's Race
Campaign Finance Reports

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Annual Town Meeting---Night 4

Stoughton came out of the Stone Age and into the Digital Age right from the start on Monday, May 17th, at the fourth night of Annual Town Meeting, On a recommendation of the Town's technology director, Dr. Larry Gray, the members voted 103-32 to purchase materials to install a SPS-systemwide Fiber Wide Area Network Upgrade for $200,000. The upgrade replaces a T-1 line that the town pays Verizon $16,800 a year to rent. The Fiber system is far superior to the T-1, comparible to the difference between the old "pulse" phone lines, and the more current "dial tone" lines. The Stoughton Fire Department will use their trucks and men to install the cable. Gray said that the town would "pay off" the investment in less than 12 years.

Next, Town Meeting members voted to borrow $360,000 to purchase and install Smartboards (interactive whiteboards) in Stoughton High School, the O'Donnell Middle School, and all 4th and 5th grade classrooms townwide. David Guglia, a town meeting member and vice principal of the O'Donnell Middle School, told town meeting members that smartboards "are a very effective tool for learning." Town Meeting member Peter Murphy got in a shot at the Board of Selectmen before the vote, adding, "If these work, we should give a smart board to the selectmen." Voters approved them, 128-6. An effort to replace the roof of the E.A. Jones Elementary School, at a cost of $600,000, got an 83-53 majority, but fell short of the two-thirds needed for borrowing articles.

An effort to complete a study and develop a master plan for ADA renovations in the towns outdoor facilities (fields, playgrounds, trails, etc.) was tabled until the end of town meeting. An effort by the Stoughton Facilities Master Planning Committee, chaired by Richard Fitzgerald, for $610,000 for the first year of a five-year plan for repairs of town hall, the Freeman Street Fire Station, the Council on Aging, the Stoughton Police Station, and the Clapp Memorial Building (housing the Historical Society), was tabled until Wednesday, May 19, so that all town meeting members can see the full five year financial plan.

The 25 minute coffee and cookies recess was enjoyed by all. Meeting ended at about 10:15 p.m. Next town meeting---night #5--is at 7:30 p.m. on May 19th at Stoughton High Auditorium.

(Posted on 5/17/10 @ 11 p.m.)

 

 

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Stoughton PD Executive Officer Lt. Robert Devine
assists City of Quincy Anti-Bullying Effort

Stoughton Police Executive Officer Lt. Robert Devine and Quincy School Resource Officer Stephen Burgio discuss the legal consequences of bullying.

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Detective Roger Hardy Named "Police Officer of the Year"

Detective Roger Hardy holds Proclamation with Chief Paul Shastany (Hank Herbowy Photo)

The VFW Post 1645 presented Stoughton Police Detective Roger Hardy with its "Policeman of the Year" award Sunday at the Post. David Sears, Chairman of the Voice of Democracy, said that the officers in the Stoughton Police Department were the ones who actually voted for Hardy. "Like our Teacher of the Year Award, this is by vote of their peers. The people in the Stoughton Police Department felt that Officer Hardy best represented them, " he told Snyder's Stoughton.

(Posted on May 16 @ 7 p.m.)

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Police Department Reacts to Charges of
"Culture of Casual Corruption"

The brass among the Stoughton Police Department is reacting to references by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian T. Kelly about a "culture of casual corruption" in the Stoughton Police Department. The accusation was leveled during the sentencing of former Stoughton Police Detective Tony Bickerton, who was ordered federal prison for a year and a day, on charges of obstruction of justice, and making false statements to FBI investigators. Stoughton Police Chief Paul Shastany said that the FBI made observations of the three former officers (Bickerton, Arlindo Romeiro and Lino Azul), as far as "casual corruption", but it was more illustrative of those officers, than the department as a whole. "I've talked to the FBI, and I'm aware of the extent of their concerns. The way forward was discussed, and it echoed where I felt this department needed to go." Shastany said that "systems that created an opportunity for these officers have been addressed. We're identifying high risk-high liability issues, after discussing them with the command staff. In this business, certain things can contribute towards creating rogue officers, including lack of training and oversight." Shastany said that training, and eventual accreditation of the department, is the goal. "We will rigorously train our command staff. Recently, we sent Sgts. Gurevich, McGowan, McNulty, Murphy, Welch, and Williams to the FBI's one week LEEDA leadership course. We are working to develop the command staff's skills in leadership training, and the skills to maintain the integrity of the work force. We want the first line supervisors in support of command officers. They came back raring to go after the LEEDA training. This excitement is the fuel we need to move beyond the issues of the past."

This was the first step in training with the FBI leadership institute and command institute for intensive training. Chief Shastany and Executive Officer Lt. Robert Devine will be attending internal affairs training with the FBI to create systems that would prevent future misconduct. Lt. Devine will be going to Police Executive Research Forum for elite training. Chief Shastany said "it is three weeks of intensive training for the cream of the crop, taught by the gurus in the field. Bob will have to read four books in advance of this, plus maintain class projects. All the focus is on supporting and constructing an effective administrative and support staff."

Shastany said that he was deeply concerned when he read affidavits where the informant indicated he was looking to obtain drugs from a police officer. "We'll get in trouble if we don't handle our evidence properly. There is a system of cataloging, packaging and storing evidence that must be impeccable and beyond reproach. I wanted to know if it was a system fault or a rogue officer's fault. I contracted to have an evidence audit done by two Lts. from an outside police force. Sgt. Robert Welch named Detective James O'Connor to work with the two auditors. The two auditors--who had no connection to Stoughton, according to Shastany--accounted for every piece of evidence. "From paper evidence like matchbook covers, to murder weapons and drugs, through visual audits, through evidence recordings, logs, and computer files, all pieces are accounted for. We consider this a major step. We went as far back as we had property. All money was accounted for, as well."

Shastany acknowledged that money, drugs or other evidence could have been removed before it ever reached the station. But, he cautioned, "We are going to tighten things up considerably. We 're using leadership training and accountability to prevent any future cases like this. Collecting evidence in the field will be more scrutinized. Going forward, we are looking for accreditation to our collections and storage systems. Supervision with integrity is the cornerstone to our success."

As for the previous troubles in the police department, Chief Shastany said, "We're anxious to regain the public's trust. We know it's slow in coming back. We have a lot of good officers working under this terrible cloud. Wrongdoing will be uncovered and this administration will have no tolerance for a blue wall of silence. This department will become a model of integrity. I chose to come here and make changes, so others will want to emulate what we have here. We have a staff of officers who want to move forward, and do things the right way. They are as energized as they ever could be."

As for Bickerton, Chief Shastany said, "Someone's going to jail, so justice is done." Added Lt. Devine, "Anything done by Bickerton was not a matter of a hole in our evidence procedures. Our practices are sound. He was a rogue agent on his own. We're moving forward to improving our policies to an accredited standard."

Bottom Line: Chief Shastany pointed to his gold shield and said, "This shield is to protect the residents of Stoughton, not the officers in this department. If they betray the public trust, they will lose their shield."

(Posted on May 13, 2010 @ 5 p.m.)

(c) 2010 by snydersstoughton.com

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Bickerton Gets Year In Prison

Bickerton (r) doling out whipped cream to seniors. He'll be spending some time in the federal pen.

 

Former Stoughton Police Officer Sentenced for Obstruction of Justice and Making False Statements

A former Stoughton police officer who recently pleaded guilty in federal court was sentenced today to 12 months and one day in prison and two years’ supervised release.

United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz and Warren T. Bamford, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation - Boston Field Division, announced that Anthony Bickerton, 60, of Stoughton, who has resigned from the Stoughton Police Department and the Stoughton School Committee, was sentenced after pleading guilty to obstruction of justice and making false statements and representations to the Federal Bureau of Investigation regarding an ongoing public corruption investigation. Bickerton made these false statements and representations during the course of an interview on July 15, 2009 and subsequently, in September of 2009, Bickerton attempted to hide evidence at a friend’s residence, an intent to obstruct a federal investigation.

U.S. Attorney Carmen Ortiz stated, “Police misconduct erodes public confidence and trust in law enforcement. Mr. Bickerton’s egregious actions are an affront to the decent and honest officers of the Stoughton Police Department, who serve the public’s interest and do their jobs with dedication and integrity. This sentence should send a strong message that we take very seriously any law enforcement officer who violates the very laws they are charged with serving and protecting.”

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian T. Kelly, Chief of Ortiz’s Public Corruption Unit.

(Posted on 5/12/10 @ 11 a.m. News Release from the Boston office of the FBI)

 

(Globe Story)

(Enterprise Story)

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We Have a Human Resources Director!

Stoughton’s Annual Town Meeting took a bold and somewhat controversial step and funded a Human Resources Director, who would start in the fall of 2010. The efforts to install an HR Director had run into the same wall that the repeated attempts at funding a Town Planner ran into. Last special Town Meeting, a Town Planner was finally funded, and Joseph Laydon has worked tenaciously for the town since.

I spoke up loudly against the HR Director last year at special Town Meeting. We had municipal and school layoffs, and the feeling was that the funding just wasn’t there. But, in the interim, I researched other towns, and spoke with people about the position. I learned that, in most cases, the HR Directors saved towns more than the cost of their positions, in increasing time for higher paid town managers and department heads to do more of their jobs, and less personnel work. 

The Town of Canton had a Personnel Board that oversaw much of the work of a Human Resources Director. But Town Manager Bill Friel said that about nine years ago, it tried the concept of a paid Human Resources Administrator, and it worked out well. 

Canton’s current HR Administrator is Lori Soloway. She is Canton’s second person in the HR position; the first serving five years. She tells Snyder’s Stoughton that her plate is full.

“I’ve been here for three years,” she said. “You can’t imagine how busy I am. We’re having a health and wellness fair this weekend. I help with recruiting; participate in contract negotiations, workman’s comp, grievances, etc. It’s an extremely busy office, and I have no secretary. Employees call with questions on a daily basis on their benefits, and I deal with retirees, as well. I also do an orientation for the schools. There aren’t many HR Directors who deal with the schools, but Canton has seen the value in it. We have a good relationship with the unions. We may be on different sides of the table, but we meet somewhere in the middle.”

Friel tells Snyder’s Stoughton that he thinks his neighbors will do well by adding this position.

“It’s really important that the town manager, the Board of Selectmen, and department heads buy into the idea of an HR director,” he said. “You can make significant gains with the addition of this one position. It’s really important who you hire, too. The HR person is a real resource for employees. It’s a place to go, a sounding board for advice. Written policies and procedures are required by many insurers for coverage. The normal recruiting process is enhanced, including orientation.”

Canton is unique, however. It is one of only 10 towns in the state that has a combined municipal and school HR Director. Friel said that in Canton’s case, “We created a consolidated personnel function for the schools and municipal sides. The myriad of issues with an HR focus, regulatory and legal, updating personnel policies and procedures to comply with the law, avoiding litigation. It’s been a big success for Canton. I’m sure it will be for Stoughton, as well.”

In Randolph, the new Town Charter specifies that all personnel decisions rest with the “strong” Town Manager, in its case, David Murphy. His Administrative Assistant, Ann Barkhouse, says she handles much of the paperwork, but personnel decisions rest with Murphy.

Sharon Town Administrator Ben Puritz said Sharon is not considering a human resources director for their town.

“We share responsibilities,” he said. “We have a benefits coordinator in our finance department. I am the representative for the finance board, and the personnel director, while someone in our payroll department has a piece of personnel administration, as well.” 

But, he added, “In a perfect world, it would be nice to have a person dedicated to that function exclusively. Under the current financial restrictions of the budget, we don’t have the capacity for a human resources director.”

Stoughton Town Manager Francis Crimmins said that hiring an HR Director will pay immediate dividends for taxpayers.

“Today, 90 percent of my time was consumed by personnel issues in four different departments,” he told me late Tuesday afternoon. “We really needed a full time professional to administer our personnel programs, shore up recruiting; ensure compliance with state and federal regulations; and counsel employees on a host of human resource matters. Now, our employees talk to one person on health issues, another handles complaints, and a different person regarding vacation time. This consolidates everything under one roof. We currently have no regular training or development programs, either.”

Crimmins, who took over in February, said the biggest benefit is freeing up his time, to do the work the Selectmen want him to do.

“This HR Director will help to recruit, prepare ads, administer tests, assist department heads, and conduct orientation for new employees,” he said. “(He or she) will also maintain central employee records that comply with confidentiality guidelines. Employees need to know what our expectations are, so they can meet and exceed them. The HR Director will also assist me in writing an employee handbook.” 

But Crimmins sees the biggest savings in avoiding the quagmire of costly litigation the town has experienced. 

“We can avoid a lot of unnecessary litigation, and maximize our chances on matters that go all the way to court,” he said.   

Based on Soloway’s input, here’s some of the things we can expect the new HR Director to take care of: Recruitment and Employment; Benefit Administration; Workers Compensation Administration; Labor Relations; Employee Relations; Salary Administration; Data Management; Training and Professional Development; and Policy Development

 The seed money for the position comes from the increases of the meals and hotel taxes, proposed by Town Meeting member Eric Kolman and adopted by Town Meeting last week. Town Accountant Bill Rowe said that $222,226 of the expected revenue from those twin taxes can be utilized in the 2011 budget. Sixty-seven percent of those approved funds are expected to go to the Stoughton Public Schools. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Marguerite Rizzi gave an early indication that those funds (if received) could restore 2.5 positions of the nine lost in the 2011 budget.

Stoughton’s HR Director will start at approximately $85,000 a year. Like the others who voted for this position, I’m hoping the hope matches the hype. 

(CLARIFICATION: "There seems to be some confusion with the salary and article for the HR position since both the $80k and $85k figures were batted around.  The salary discussed is a maximum of $80,000 per year and the $66,700 approved for Article 24 is for the 10 month period starting September 1, 2010. The $80,000 is comparable to other towns - for example, Canton's HR Manager is paid $75,000 per year."---Holly Boykin, Chair Finance Committee)  

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Stoughton Annual Town Meeting--Night 3

Monday, May 10th Annual Town Meeting spent a large amount of borrowed money (almost $900,000), and did something that had been rejected at Town Meetings past--they hired a Human Resources Director. The HR Director, which was motioned for by Selectmen Chairman Steve Anastos, was to be paid for out of anticipated revenue from the new meals and hotel tax, voted in at the previous night of town meeting. Town Meeting member Dennis Gada pointed out that the town had no employee handbook, no job descriptions, and no disciplinary plan, and gave it a strong recommendation. Town Meeting member Ed DeFelice disagreed, saying,"This is like a shell game. We don't have the money in hand." Snyder's Stoughton had spoken out against this same article at last year's special town meeting. But, with a 67 million dollar budget, and tons of litigation reflected in the town meeting warrant, it seemed like the time to put an HR Director in, who could assist the employees of the town. Although I voted against the meals and room taxes, they are in effect, and it would be nice to use that money to try to keep our employees happy. With a huge chunk of the budget allocated to paying employees, its reasonable that someone should be there to assist them, and inform them of all the benefits they have coming to them. Town Meeting member Joe Flynn said with people being laid off (some could be lost on the school side), that this was not the time to hire an HR Director. My feeling is that an HR Director (in theory) should save the town litigation costs, and assist the town manager and department heads, making them more effective. Money saved could actually help to retain employees, and hire additional ones. The HR Director will be starting in the Fall, with a 3/4 year salary of $66,700. The motion passed by an 85-51 vote.

Town Meeting also approved borrowing:

$30,000 for Fire Dept. Apparatus Intercom System (119-14)
$200,000 to replace Fire Dept's Ladder Truck No. 2 (with help of a $675,000 grant) (135-0 unanimous)
$50,000 to replace Fire Dept. Engine No. 1 (unanimous)
$176,240 to replace four Stoughton Police cruisers.(unanimous)
$41,356 to upgrade HVAC System at Stoughton Police Station. (123-3)
$10,000 to fix damaged mechanical room floor at Stoughton Police Station (unanimous)
$9,000 to fix radio transmission/reception signal failure of Stoughton Police (unanimous)
$78,000 for a pickup truck and maintenance vehicle for Stoughton Water Dept. (unanimous)
$51,000 to replace backup pump on Turnpike St. and Daly Drive Generator for Sewer Dept.(unanimous)
$99,000 to replace a dump truck and bobcat loader for Stoughton Highway Dept. (126-2)
$40,000 to purchase a new 3/4 ton truck for Stoughton School Dept. (125-2)

QUOTE OF THE NIGHT:(during discussion on Daly Drive Generator)

DPW Director John Batchelder: "It's 39 years old."
Town Meeting Rep Joe Flynn: "I'm 50 and I'm still good."

Town Manager Fran Crimmins (3rd from left) and Deputy Moderator Bob Mullen (right) hand
out awards for long service to town meeting.

Next Town Meeting is May 17 @ 7:30 at Stoughton High School auditorium.

(Story & Photo posted @ 11:30 p.m. on May 10,2010)

(Snyder cell phone photo)

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Does Senator Joyce have Conflict on Chapter 40B?

Story Here

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Two Republicans Challenge Joyce

Story Here

Canton Selectman Bob Burr

Milton Town Meeting Rep Richard Livingston

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Annual Town Meeting--Night 2

On Wednesday, May 5, the second night of Annual Town Meeting, members voted to accept the Community Preservation Committee's first report, and then went after a few sources of future revenue. First, by a 101-32 vote, the Town Meeting Members voted to ask the General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for special legislation to enable the town to access some of the 2.5 million dollars in accrued earnings in the Stoughton Public Health Enterprise Fund. As passed, after changes from the Finance Committee, if the legislature approves it, it allows access "if in any fiscal year, the certified retained earnings as of July 1 of that fiscal year of the Public Health Enterprise Fund exceeds the approved fiscal year operating budget of said fund, up to 50% of such excess may be transfered, with a vote of Town Meeting, to the town's Stabilization Fund." Town Accountant Bill Rowe said an outside auditor had recommended the move. "He thought that excess money would probably never be utilized." But, Lisa Parent, director the Public Health Department, cautioned against the move. "97% of the funds we receive are from Medicare. Predictions are that Medicare will take a big hit. We'll feel this hit. We do have a significant amount in accrued earnings, but we will have to dip into this if health care predictions are correct." Town Meeting member Barry Crimmins, whose wife works for the department. said it was a "potentially dangerous precedent we are entering into with this article." Some speakers asked why Public Health, which is doing such a good job providing excellent care, and not taking anything out of taxpayer's pockets, should be "punished." Town Meeting and Finance Committee member Pat Colburn said, "We're not punishing anyone. This simply gives us options." Finance Committee Chair Holly Boykin added, "Putting this money in the stabilization fund has the auditing possibility of lifting the town's bond ratings. Sitting in Public Health Enterprise Fund doesn't help the town." Town Meeting members agreed.

Next, Town Meeting narrowly passed a petitioned article from Town Meeting member Eric Kolman to increase the town's meals tax to 7%. This was in response to the legislature raising the rate to 6.25%, and allowing towns to life it 0.75% higher and keep the money. After much arguing back and forth, the members voted 71-60 to pass the increased tax. (This writer voted against it. I just can't support a tax increase.) Kolman estimated the town would garner about $180,000 from this increase.

Another article, also filed by Kolman, to raise the hotel tax rate to 6%, passed more easily (86-41). There are only two hotels in Stoughton. Town Meeting member John Morton, arguing for the increase, said, "Maybe some people in town use these hotels for a couple hours, but most people paying this tax come from out of town. It makes fiscal sense and is a rational thing to do." It was estimated over $80,000 could be generated by this one.

Town meeting also voted to put $70,690 into the town's stabilization fund and approved a five year contract with Stoughton Media Access Corp. (SMAC) to provide cable access television service to the Town of Stoughton. Town Meeting meets next on Monday, May 10 @ 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium at Stoughton High.

(Posted on May 5, 2010 @ 11:30 p.m.)

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Around & About

 

Congratulations to Stoughton Police Departments Sgts. Gurevich, McGowan, McNulty, Murphy, Welch, and Williams for completing the FBI's one week LEEDA leadership course. Another step in the right direction for the SPD, under new Police Chief Paul Shastany. Also, Stoughton Police Executive Lt. Robert Devine led an anti-bullying seminar for the City of Quincy.

Cheng Du is hoping to re-open at the end of May, permits willing, in their new location on Washington Street at the former Phatt Boys location. Much of the bar area will remain, and a major renovation is taking place in the space. One major addition to the menu will be Thai food, something that the town hasn't seen since the golden days of Thai Taste in Stoughton Center.

Former Town Manager and long-time Town Clerk Jeanne Fleming is the newest member of the Finance Committee.

The Stoughton Theatre building was sold by Mr. Vu, who renovated the site. No details on the new owner's plans for the closed theatre.

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CHIEF SHASTANY ON TV

New Stoughton Police Chief Paul Shastany commented this past week on Snyder's Stoughton TV Show on the ongoing FBI probe into the Police Department. He also spoke about the quality of the officers on Rose Street, and some of the positive changes on the way, including extensive training of officers, and changes in the chain of command. Don't miss what he had to say on this week's show. See local listings for times, in addition to the regular 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. times on Friday, Saturday and Sunday on Comcast Channel 9 and Verizon Fios Channel 28.

(posted 4/30/10 @ noon)

WATCH THIS WEEKEND!
May 7, 8 & 9 @ 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Comcast Channel 9 and Verizon Channel 28

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Annual Town Meeting: Night 1

Usually the first night of Annual Town Meeting is full of lengthy ceremonies, political speeches, and little else. But, on Monday night (5/3), Town Meeting took about two and a half hours to spend over 67 million dollars. They passed the budget, with a few tweekings from the Finance Committee, for all departments. The Stoughton Public Schools got $34,325,998 for their 2011 budget. that was a tiny increase of $15,000 from the 2010 budget. The schools were forced to cut over 1.2 million dollars from their requested budget figure. The school committee approved the cuts earlier tonight.

The other two largest departments involve public safety. The Stoughton Police Department got a 2011 budget of $4,486,655, approximately $190,000 less than the 2010 budget. But, in actuality, with $233,709 added to the selectmen's budget for police contract bargaining, they will come out over $43,000 OVER last year's budget, when it's all combined. The Stoughton Fire Department got a 2011 budget of $3,492,579. That was just less than a $2000 increase over the 2010 budget.

It was a relatively early night (around 10:30 p.m.) Next Town Meeting is Wednesday, May 5 @ 7:30 p.m. in Stoughton High's auditorium.

(Posted on May 3, 2010 @ 11 p.m.)

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LIFE CAN BE A CLASSROOM--
learning from the water situation

The situation with the water failure at the MWRA never became a problem to the residents of Stoughton, because of the quick action of Sgt. John Bonney of the Stoughton Police Department and the workers of DPW. While 30 other towns and two million people heard the strains of “dirty water” in their ears, the taxpayers here were protected. Sgt. Bonney happened to be online when an MWRA alert flashed across the screen announcing the burst pipe and the resultant boiling order. He told Assistant DPW Superintendent Jonathan Beder who called Assistant DPW Director Billy Hammel. Hammel said that Greg Malden and Rich Snyder shut the station and the valve, cutting off MWRA water from the Stoughton water supply in about thirty minutes. The DPW uses Stoughton wells as the main source of our water, with the MWRA as backup, switching on the valve as needed. So, due to this diligence, the unfiltered MWRA water that has resulted in boiling orders for nearly two million people, did not affect Stoughton’s town water supply.

Town Manager Fran Crimmins, working with DPW Director John Batchelder, Police Chief Paul Shastany, Fire Chief David Jardin, and Selectman Chairman Steve Anastos, began calling other selectmen, town officials, and others to try and spread the word. Crimmins called State Rep. Lou Kafka for help contacting someone at the MWRA to try to tell the media to remove the Stoughton warnings on TV. Crimmins told Snyder’s Stoughton that the name he got from Kafka was someone he was able to reach, and who helped to mitigate the situation. Stoughton’s technology director Dr. Lawrence Gray posted water information on channel 6 and on the town website, and initiated a reverse-911.

The DPW, especially, should be saluted for avoiding a potentially disastrous result for residents, restaurants and other commercial interests in town. However, the DPW didn't do an inadequate job of getting the word out to the public that our water was potable. Of course, the DPW isn't a public relations firm. Their job is to provide the residents with clean water, and the ability to get rid of waste water through our sewer systems. And, they accomplished that with flying colors. However, in this case, proper earlier notification would have helped prevent the rush on stores for bottled water. The Journal, Enterprise, and Snyder's Stoughton never received notification, in a timely manner, to share with readers. By limiting the immediate dissemination of information to the town website and Channel 6 Bulletin Board screen, larger population groups weren’t reached in Stoughton. As late as Sunday morning, a couple of TV Stations were still including Stoughton in their warnings. We did not receive any official information from the Stoughton DPW or Town of Stoughton to post for residents until Sunday, May 2, at 1:07 p.m. The Journal and Enterprise also got updates on the water about that same time on Sunday. This is by no means a whack on the DPW, or its director. Don’t mistake it for that. I have great respect for John and his department’s workers. No one could have anticipated this problem, and no one in town had experience dealing with anything of this nature. They will be better prepared for the next time anything happens, that needs town-wide notification.

Batchelder, reached Monday afternoon, told Snyder's Stoughton that he was out of town on Saturday. "I heard about it at 4 p.m. on Saturday. My crew had already shut down the connection. We pulled a test on the MWRA side of the gate this morning (Monday). The chlorine from our system would have taken care of any residual problem.” Batchelder said the whole thing was a learning experience. "It was frustrating Sunday watching Channel 4 still scrolling Stoughton on their screens. The MWRA and MEMA were supposed to notify the media about our water supply not being affected. We tried--even reaching out to Rep. Kafka--to have the TV stations respond. It was just frustrating." He said we should look at the positive, however. "Some people waited in lines for hours for water. Others were fighting in stores for it. I'm just happy we caught it in time. We're fortunate that we use wells, and the MWRA is our backup, rather than the other way around." We’re all grateful that we have a DPW that has workers who respond immediately---on a weekend—to avert a potential horror show for residents.

This could be a blessing in disguise for the town. It was a lesson for everyone here. Town Manager Fran Crimmins acknowledged Tuesday night that he had a hard time getting through to local and Boston media. He suggested a “command center” if something similar occurred again. He also said that “Old fashioned informing neighbors never went out of style. We also need a list of elderly population centers.” Crimmins was happy with the DPW, as well. “We have a system that works, and a backup system that works. Our wells are in great shape.”

Selectwoman Cynthia Walsh had a couple of good ideas. “If something like this occurs again on a weekend, we should notify churches, temples, and mosques. We could reach many elderly people who go to worship. Also, since people were going to supermarkets for water, and we post official notices in many of these locations already, why not post this information in supermarkets and corner markets to help get the word out?”

It seems obvious to this writer that department heads should be the point people with the media when something comes up within their department. When police issues have come up, the police chief was front and center, along with the D.A. and State Police. If a similar situation arises, the DPW director could call a news conference to inform local residents, and the media. Batchelder agreed that the local media should have been notified sooner. "I tried to reach Allan Stein at the Enterprise, and I always look for you and Candace Hall (Journal). But, it was on Channel 6 and Channel 28, and on the town website. People need to refer to it (stoughton-ma.gov) more." Batchelder said he never even got to his office Saturday. "I went to the police department to get a bunch of numbers I needed to call.” When asked why the media wasn't called by 8 p.m. Saturday (when Batchelder said he knew for sure that the water was OK), he replied, "At that point, I didn't think I needed to contact the media. MEMA and the MWRA were supposed to do that. So we ran it on local cable, reverse 911, and the town website. It didn't work as we'd hoped.” (As for Reverse-911--I canvassed dozens of residents on Monday. Half had not received a reverse-911 call. Several had gotten multiple calls. It's obvious that our reverse-911 system may be better for school-wide notifications rather than town-wide ones. However, the town is trying to update the call list. If you did not receive the recent Reverse911 call and want to be added to the list, contact Dr. Larry Gray at 781-344-4000, x1236 or via email at l_gray@stoughtonschools.org.)

As I have written here, I have only good things to say about Batchelder and his entire staff. He’s not a PR professional. He’s not paid to be one. No one on the town’s payroll is. Batchelder is the effective director of a huge department, made up of many sub-departments. I'm grateful to the DPW for saving us the pain, danger, and aggravation suffered by dozens of other communities. But, the town needs to compile a media list of emails and phone numbers. (I have offered to help compile it.) The Norfolk County D.A.’s office, for instance, sends notifications regularly, and can call a press conference within an hour using only email, and get a crowd. They need to compile a list of senior housing, athletic organization directors (notification could be made to STOYAC, Stoughton Soccer, Stoughton baseball in the event of a weekend problem), places of worship, etc. I’m sure that the Town Manager will be all over this.

Let’s call this training camp for an actual emergency. Let’s hope when the real one comes, everything will flow as well as the water in Stoughton’s pipes.

 

(Posted on May 2, 2010 @ 10 p.m.; updated on May 3 @ 5 p.m. Re-done on May 4 @ 11 p.m.)

MESSAGE FROM ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF DPW

 

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ZBA DENIES "POND VIEW VILLAGE" REQUEST
TO LIFT AGE RESTRICTION

The Zoning Board of Appeals has denied a request from Pond View Village Stoughton LLC for modification of their comprehensive permit, that would have removed the retriction of "Over 55" sales. Signing off on the decision was ZBA Chairman Sherman Epro, Secretary Robert O'Regan, Orlando DiGiampietro, Gary Ilacqua, and Marguerite Mitchell. Some of the numerous reasons listed for the denial included, "The Board finds and determines that, to the extent that the project is a LIP project, the Board lacks jursidiction to grant the modifications as requested because evidence of a proper amendment to the LIP endorsedment by the chief executive officer was not provided....(lots of legalese followed)" In addition, the ZBA "finds and determines that removal of the over 55 age requirement would be inconsistent with local needs, as identified by the town's certified housing plan, which indicates that an increase in rthe supply of dedicated over 55 housing is necessary and this need outweighs the regional need for affordable housing." The Board also found that the removal of the over 55 age requirement "would create an unacceptable pedestrian hazard for families with children, The project includes multiple dwelling units that are located on a main roadway, but are not connected to the main part of the development." And lastly the ZBA found "the project has insufficient open space, and there is insufficient open space within a reasonable walking distance to serve a population that would include children and young adults, and this is a local concern that outweighs the need for affordable housing." A good decision for the town. It's about time we stopped bailing out developers when they make mistakes.

(Posted on 4/30/10 @ 12:45 p.m.)

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ZBA SAYS NO TO CELL TOWER ON HANSEN PROPERTY

The Zoning Board of Appeals on April 28, 2010 denied a Special Permit for a Wireless Communications and Television Tower and Communications Facility to be built on land off of Pleasant Street. The land is owned by the family of Town Moderator Howard Hansen. The decision, signed by ZBA Chairman Sherman Epro, Vice Chairman Jerald Savage, Secretary Robert O'Regan, Orlando DiGiampietro, and Gary Ilacqua, listed a number of reasons for the denial. Among those was "There was no showing that the requested use is desirable to the public convenience or welfare, based on the coverage map that the area now enjoys 100% coverage. In addition, the Petitioner did not show that the area lacks cellular service. " Also noted by the ZBA in their decision: "The requested use will impair the integrity and character of the District and the adjourning residential district, may be detrimental to the health of the neighbors and wildlife, and to the welfare of the neighbors."

(Posted on 4/30/10 @ 1:15 p.m.)

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MULLEN ELECTED DEPUTY MODERATOR

It was a battle of former selectmen Thursday night (4/29/10) before the town meeting members at the Organizational Town Meeting for the title of Deputy Moderator. In the instance that Moderator Howard Hansen has to step aside at Town Meeting, the Deputy Moderator would fill in. It was a rare occasion, indeed, when Robert Levitz, the previous DM, got to take the gavel. Two former selectmen expressed interest in the position, and the battle was on. When the votes were counted, Robert Mullen beat Joseph Mokrisky, 76-48.

 

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Scam Alert! An elderly resident of Stoughton was contacted by a man claiming to be an attorney from Toronto. The elderly person was told that a grandchild had been arrested and needed bail money to be released.  Someone then got on the line impersonating the grandchild demanding $3600 to be sent to Canada. This is a classic phishing scam targeting the elderly.  If it sounds wrong it probably is, contact police immediately. From Stoughton Police Dept. Executive Officer Robert Devine.

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JABOUR SEEKS TO DISQUALIFY COHEN ATTORNEY

(Story)

 

NEW ENGLAND SINAI HOSPITAL ONCE AGAIN TAKING NEW INPATIENTS

(story)

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Stoughton's Newest Eagle Scout

Congratulations to Shaul Kushinsky, Stoughton's newest Eagle Scout. The member of Troop 54 of Old Colony Council's Boy Scouts of America got his honor on April 25 in a Council of Honor at Ahavath Torah Congregation in Stoughton. Kushinsky, a senior at Stoughton High School, got a Meritorious Service Award in 2010, in honor of a lifesaving Heimlich Manuever that saved a life last year. Shaul redesigned and built new storage units for band equipment at SHS. Coming out to honor Shaul were Stoughton Police Chief Paul Shastany, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Marguerite Rizzi; School Committee member Tom Colburn; retired Stoughton Schools Fine Arts Director Ron Christianson, as well as his successor Dan Davey.

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Keating Says Perry is a "Right Wing Nut"

Norfolk County District Attorney William Keating told an audience of Democratic activists in Sharon Thursday night (4/22/10) that his Republican opponent, running for Congressman William Delahunt's seat, is a "right wing nut." State Rep Jeff Perry (R-Sandwich) is running against former State Treasurer Joe Malone for the Republican nomination in the 10th Congressional District. Keating told the audience at Alice's Mandarin Taste that he feels that Perry will win the nomination. He said it was important to win this seat for many reasons. "We really need to win this seat. Senator Scott Brown is doing radio ads for Perry. If we win this seat, Brown is a one-horse pony, an anomoly. The Wall Street issue has Republicans in trouble. 70% of Brown's money came from Wall Street. This issue is important. The Republicans want to keep up the greed."    As to why Keating is running, he told the crowd, "If you have a chance to make a difference, you have to jump on it. As a D.A., I've seen the results of financial pressures on the family--increased domestic violence. I've seen the average 1.7 deaths a day from Oxy and Heroin. People can't get jobs and nothing is being done. We're building all over the world, and doing nothing here." As for Perry, Keating said, "Perry wants to repeal national healthcare. He was one of only two who voted against the plan in Massachusetts. Is that a patriot? Perry has chosen positions against every civil right I have worked so hard for. He's the most aggressive legislator against a women's right to choose, gay rights, and immigration."

Perry, a conservative, wrote a book called, "My G.O.P."   He tells Snyder's Stoughton, "I guess the voters will have decide if they want someone who is willing to stand up for conservative principles of limited government or send another liberal down to Washington, D.C. to support Speaker Pelosi."

(posted on April 23, 2010 @ 2 p.m. Updated April 25 @ 7:40 p.m.)

 

 

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EXCLUSIVE:
240 Stoughton Employees Earned Over $70,000 in 2009; 38 Topped $90,000

As the result of a March 9, 2010 request, under the Freedom of Information Act, Snyder's Stoughton today (4/20) received information on all salaries for municipal and school employees in 2009. 240 employees earned over $70,000, while 38 employees earned over $90,000. The top wage earner was former Town Manager Mark Stankiewicz, who earned $140, 974. New Town Manager Francis Crimmins is scheduled to earn $158,000 this year, and is currently the highest paid town employee. Police Lt. Michael Blount took in $128, 941. Former Acting Chief Thomas Murphy earned $112, 305. It is expected that new Police Chief Paul Shastany will earn $122,000 in 2010. Sgt. John Bonney earned $104, 173 in 2009. Lt. Francis Wohlgemuth took in $101,039, and Det. Sgt. Robert Welch $98,570. Sgt. Daniel McGowan and Sgt. Michael Merola both earned just over $97,000. Retired Stoughton Detective Anthony Bickerton took in $94,641 in 2009. Fire Chief David Jardin earned $122,596, while Fire Captain Scott Breen made $111,411. Deputy Fire Chief Mark Dolloff earned $96,204, while Captain Douglas Campbell took in $96,233. Fire Captain Don Jasmin earned $92,319. DPW Director John Batchelder pulled down $109,121 in 2009. His former boss, the retired Lawrence Barrett, earned $94,071 last year. DPW Manager William Hammel, Jr. earned $97,657. Department heads at Town Hall took in a wide variety of salaries. Town Engineer Benjamin Fehan earned $90,122. Youth Commission/COA Director Karen Hall earned $81,200. Dr. Lawrence Gray, who serves municipal and school technology needs, took in a total of $107,000. Town Planner Joseph Laydon made $78,846. Stoughton VNA Director Lisa Parent earned $86,390. Town Accountant William Rowe made $87,040. Building Inspector David Tonis earned $80,174 and Assessor Paula Keefe, $81,201. Treasurer Thomas Rorrie took in $87,290 and Library Director Pat Basler, $87,290. Veteran's Agent Mike Pazyra (the only department head without a secretary) earned $54,956. Town Clerk Cheryl Mooney earned $50,501 in (part of) 2009.

 

On the school side, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Marguerite Rizzi was top earner with $126,500. Stoughton High Science Director, and basketball and softball coach Janet Sullivan earned $105,083. Stoughton High principal Brett Dickens earned $104,277 in 2009, while her assistant, Paul Jacobs also topped 100k ($101,193), as did O'Donnell Middle School principal Wayne Hester ($104,963). Stoughton High Social Studies Director and basketball coach John Gallivan nearly hit the century mark as well ($99,756). Stoughton Public School's K-12 Director of Fine Arts John Kearns also came close ($97,688). Assistant Superintendent of Schools Jonathan Ford earned $64,615. Joel Harding, Supervisor of Support Services, earned $82,534. Stephen Levine, Interim Administrator of Special Education, got $87,723 in 2009. Kathleen Silva, Financial Coordinator, earned $89,155. Edward Gilbert, Director of Food Services, earned $65,060. Elementary Schools included Dawe School principal David Barner ($96,902); Gibbons School principal Lynne Jardin ($89,322); Hansen School principal Faye Polillio ($88,695), Jones and South School principal Mark Chitty ($90,592), and West Elementary School principal Brendan Dearborn ($86,282). 161 school employees earned $70,000+. 79 municipal employees earned over $70,000. 

This week’s column is about the leadership teams on the municipal and school sides of town. They should be highly compensated, as they have a lot of responsibility, and the stress that comes with it.  Unfortunately, the recession has cost all employees their raises (except for contracted STEP raises), and in some cases (possibly on the school side), some employees could lose their jobs.  Salaries of public employees are the public’s right-to-know. They pay the salaries.  But, in this town, secrecy has always prevailed.  Through the Freedom of Information Act, and the cooperation of the Town Manager and Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, this information is now public.  That is what transparency is all about in the public sector. 

 

(Next week: Many familiar family names are on the town’s payroll. Plus, who are the “power couples” in town?)

(C) 2010 by Snyder's Stoughton

Snyder's Stoughton posted ALL Town Employees Salaries. Snydersstoughton.com has done this for Stoughton taxpayers, as a public service. There's no other motivation here. Like the Boston Herald did to obtain all state employees salaries, I had to file a legal request to finally get it. I apologize to those town employees who are upset by the transparency of their income. It should be noted that some "salaries" also include vacation and sick pay; some don't. This was the information provided by the Town Accountant.

Municipal Employees

School Employees

Information was provided by Town Accountant William Rowe. Any "accuracy" problems should be addressed to him.

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SMAC SEEKS NEW BOARD DIRECTOR

Stoughton Media Access Corporation is accepting letters of interest from Stoughton residents who would be interested in joining the board of directors. We are looking for a person with a financial background to replace the recently expired term of our treasurer. Letters of interest can be sent to Stoughton Media Access Corporation, 10 Pearl Street, Stoughton MA 02072, attention John Stagnone. Letters of interest should submitted by May 12, 2010.

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WHAT A WEEKEND!

Pride of Stoughton Day really was a Pride in Stoughton Weekend. Friday night, April 16, 175 people jammed into the Portuguese National Club for the Fifth Annual Doin' it for Diane" Fundraiser for Stoughton's two food pantries. The evemt, sponsored by the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce, raised approximately $17,000 for the pantries. The fundraiser was in memory of Diane Murray, late wife of Dr. David Fisher, retired principal of the South School. Together with Deni Goldman, Denis Donaghue, Terry Schneider, and this writer, the original committee ran that very first fundraiser. This one had a much more extensive volunteer list. The event featured an endless selection of raffle prizes, silence auction items, and some exciting live items--like tickets to see James Taylor and Carole King at Mohegan Sun. The entertainment featured the incredible music of Insufficient Funds, fronted by the talented Chris Petrie (of Windsor Tire fame), whose voice adapted from pop to rock easily. Singers Lydia Herrell and Nicole Caramanica also demonstrated amazing voices. IKEA led the generosity, with a $2500 contribution. Credit should go to the Doin' It For Diane Committee, which included Ann Havlin, Joanne and Terry Schneider, Cindy Pazyra, Beth and Megan Snell, Maria Pimental, Christine Gallagher, Suzanne Blacker, Bridget Horan, Lucy O'Connor, Fred Yaitanes, Nadine Israel, Joyce Dwyer, Dr. David Fisher, Dori Frankel, Chris Petrie, Joel Hoenig, Hank Polanzak, Steve Kelley, Bernie Planeta, Lisa Wheeler, Jill Sousa, and Betty Ann MacKenzie. It was a plethora of food, fun, and great prizes. (It should be noted that no selectmen came to this. The only department head who bought a ticket and stayed was Mike Pazyra, the Veteran's Agent.)

                                            Insufficient Funds Performs at Doin' It For Diane/ Mark with Joanne Schneider & Cindy & Mike Pazyra (doinitfordiane.org photos)

 

Saturday night, April 17, was the first Stoughton "Idol Show," sponsored by Stoughton's No Place for Hate Committee, co-chaired by Karen Catrone and Dick Levine . Nearly 400 people came to Stoughton high school to watch 20 very talented individuals perform everything from Indian Dance to Beatboxer. When all the votes were counted, the winner was Angela Kronillis, who belted out "I'll Always Love You" to the delight of the crowd. An amazing broadway rendition got Rachel Steinberg second place in the contest. Beatboxer Roberto Lima finished third, and siuger John Gerard took fourth place. Some singers finished just out of the money, including Eileen Springer, Kerry Campbell, and Danica Hassol. But there was no short of talent. Luke Asack showed strong guitar and voice talent. Darlene Irons shined on the piano. Ashley Yanoff, a 9 year old, showed off her martial arts skills. Sumedha Sahay performed a ritual Indian dance; Nicole Fosa sang her own background in an upbeat tune. Ken Keller sounded like the Gatlin Brothers, with his happy country tune. Two youngsters, Danny Solow and Daniel Steinberg-- entertained the crowd. Janetha Reid did a soulful hip hop dance. Teresa Miller sang well. Pamela Rutherford and Becky Detore also shined on stage. Joe "Kidd" Fernandez did an outstanding job as host. Guest Judges included performers Lori McKenna and Maria Sangiolo (both were outstanding, as always!), Jan Jones of Little Theatre of Stoughton, Helyn Hall of the Stoughton Senior Serenaders (who also perfomed a few numbers), and this writer. Rebecca Wolff of Canton was also a featured performer. The event raised over $1700 for NPFH, and provided everyone with an excellent night of entertainment--for only $5! Kudos to Jeff Connors, Bob Dee, and Marc Bloom for their technical assistance for the event. Selectmen Cynthia Walsh, John Anderson and John Stagnone attended this event.

Rachel Steinberg (2nd), Angela Kronillis (1st), Singer/Judge Lori McKenna, John Gerard (4th), Emcee Joe "Kidd" Fernandez, Judge Mark Snyder, Judge Helyn Hall of Stoughton Senior Serenaders, Singer/Judge Maria Sangiolo, Judge Jan Jones of Little Theatre of Stoughton. Missing: 3rd place finisher Roberto Lima.

Mark with Singer Lori McKenna, Joe "Kidd" Fernandez, Helyn Hall and Maria Sangiolo at Stioughton Idol.

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ANASTOS WINS SECOND TERM AS CHAIRMAN

Second Term Selectwoman Cynthia Walsh was the swing vote that gave Steve Anastos his second term as Chairman of the Board. John Anderson moved to nominate Anastos as Chair. Newly-minted selectman John Stagnone nominated John Anzivino. So, it all came down to Walsh. She voted for Anastos, giving him a 3-2 victory and the Chairmanship. Walsh was the unanimous choice as Vice Chairman, the position that Anzivino had held previously.

Outgoing selectmen Joe Mokrisky was presented with the traditional town seal-emblazoned rocking chair. After Anastos gave him "the chair," he uttered the best quip of the night, saying, "There are people in this world that would like to plug this in." He added, "You leave with a heavy heart. We all love the town, no matter our politics. This past year under the leadership of Mr. Anastos, I think we accomplished the most of any of my 12 years on the Board. The two best votes I have cast were for Mr. (Francis) Crimmins and Police Chief (Paul Shastany)."

(posted on April 13, 2010 @ 10 p.m.)

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NEWEST SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEMBER IS DEBORAH SOVINEE

Selectmen and the School Committee picked the individual to take Tony Bickerton's seat on the school committee, in a joint meeting on Wednesday night at Great Hall (4/14). It wasn't until after 9:30 p.m. that the dust settled, and Deborah Sovinee edged out Jeff Benson, 5-4. The field of candidates was an impressive group. It also included attorney David Madoff, who has a son at Stoughton High; George Dolinsky, Treasurer and vice president of Stoughton Youth Athletic Club (STOYAC); Dr. Kathleen Cronin, retired director of the Stoughton Youth Commission; Town Meeting member John D'Addieco, an O'Donnell Middle School parent; and Molly Cochran, an attorney and mother of two Dawe School students.

In the first round of voting, Bensen got 4 votes, Sovinee got 3, and Madoff and Cochran got one each. The top two vote-getters squared off in the finals, and Sovinee got the 5-4 edge. Sovinee is best known for her role as Chairman of the Stoughton Redevelopment Authority, and a senior exhibit designer for museums.
Benson is an accountant, who had two children graduate from Stoughton High school, and another still there. Benson is well known for his service to the high school council, and as a former president of Parents of Performing Students (POPS).

Sovinee tells Snyder's Stoughton that she was "thrilled and excited" by the vote. Her daughter is a senior at Stoughton High. She added, "I know all the wonderful things that the school system does, but also learned some of the improvements they need. I have a passion for science." Asked why she went from redevelopment authority to the school committee, she replied, "Through my work in the redevelopment authority, I have come to realize that there is no aspect of the town that is not affected by the schools. Whether you buy a house, or start a business, one of the first questions you are asked is, 'how are the schools?' The schools affect every avenue of life in town." Sovinee was quick to recognize the talent that had applied for the seat: "I thought some of the other candidates were quite impressive. I hope they get involved in town government, in some form."

(Posted on 4/14/10 @ 10:35 p.m.; updated on 4/15/10 @ 7 a.m.)

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TEN MINUTES WITH THE NEW POLICE CHIEF

(photo by dion.com)

Snyder’s Stoughton took time out on Monday morning to meet with Stoughton’s new Chief of Police Paul Shastany and get his thoughts on his first week on the job.

Shastany began work last Tuesday, and logged 70 hours, including work time over last weekend. We started the conversation with a tough question: “Do you feel all the bad elements have been removed from the Stoughton Police Department?” Chief Shastany replied, “Feeling has no IQ. Facts will speak for themselves. I’ve been on a mission to understand the ongoing and future issues. We will be working vigorously to obtain information from authorities that have investigated the department. It is my intention to determine the status of the investigation. Is it ongoing? We’ll give investigating authorities unfettered access and the full cooperation of the Stoughton Police Department.” As for any “bad apples” that may remain, Shastany added, “Wrongdoing will be vigorously addressed under the laws we operate under. Internal sanctions allow for separation from service for officers that breech the public trust. They can expect harsh treatment, which is no less than fair. Many officers here want to prove their trustworthiness, and regain the trust of the community.” He adds, “There’s plenty of constructive, good work being performed here. Officers will get the opportunity for positive change in the town. It will be recognized. When people are involved in a process for positive change, they will work hard to maintain quality service and perform their best work.” Shastany said he intends to meet with every individual officer in the department. “I’m amazed at how much community policing this town does. The dedication of these officers is remarkable. Morale in the department is on the way up. I will be the one to take criticisms for failures. Success will go to the officers. They’re excited and engaged, morale has jumped significantly. We will give them the tools, and they will go out and do the job.”

The former Lt. in the Framingham Police Department tells me that his administration will be fully open and transparent. “I will go on any TV show that asks me to come on. My office will be open to reporters. I will give them everything I legally can give them. I believe in 100% cooperation with the media. Of course, confidential information stays confidential. We will release what the law requires. We won’t release anything that compromises public safety. Information will be released in a timely manner as the public has a right to know. We are their police department. They pay for safety, and they deserve our trust, transparency and accountability.”

The 6’4” Chief said he loves his job. “My whole career has been focused on doing the best I can for the police industry. If there’s a sign that says, ‘Don’t juggle machetes’, I’d do it. I love a challenge.” As for priorities in his administration, he listed restoring dignity and respect; protecting the weak; helping those that cannot help themselves; keeping the streets safe; safeguarding information; protecting reports; and asking the community what the police can do for them.

As for the town’s police reputation, Shastany said that “When something goes wrong, people compare to the past and say the town is worse. But, this is happening everywhere. Does it mean attentiveness to duty is waning? No. We’re going to try to prevent crime before it happens, and we’ll working in partnership with the District Attorney, the State Police, and other peer agencies. When we engage in investigations, it will be done with the best methods, practices and integrity. We’re dealing with people’s lives.”

The new chief, father of three daughters, says that he won’t let the divisions in the department---which can be traced to the Recall election in April of 2005—continue. In Framingham, I was tasked with bringing the Brazilian community and the town together. I took people who were willing to talk, brought both sides together, and it all worked out. I’d like to do the same within this department. The officers must work together. We need to share information to tackle issues in the community. People can have opinions. But, most people want this entire episode behind them. With incremented change, and good faith given, I’m convinced we’ll put a unified best foot forward.”

One of the biggest problems facing society these days is the drug problem that has created much of today’s crime. Oxycontin and other prescription drugs have caused addictions that are expensive to maintain. “We can’t solve the problem,” Chief Stastany told me. “Strengthening families through programs like OASIS is a positive step. School resource officers following truancy and failing grades can help. Once kids feel the sting of failure, they drop out, and drug addiction and mental illness can follow. We’ll enlist other law enforcement to be effective in combating drug sales. Drugs and death go hand in hand. We will be gathering data on dealers and users, and work to shut down distributors. We’ll work with mental health providers, as well. It’s an extensive undertaking, but extremely important that we help residents from losing family members to addiction. We’ll do all that we can do, under the constraints of our budget realities.”

As I left the police chief’s office, Shastany added, “I love this occupation. I’m a police officer. Where I am geographically doesn’t matter. I’m drawn to doing the right thing. The people of Stoughton will get their money’s worth.”

(excerpted from Stoughton Journal column of April 16, 2010)

(Posted on April 12, 2010 at 1 p.m.)

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Home Invasion on School Street--first reported here

Two suspects, armed with a knife, attempted to rob a resident at 289 School Street early this evening (4/8). According to Stoughton Police Department Executive Officer Lt. Robert Devine, the two suspects, with money and stolen goods in hand, fled on foot to a car with two waiting accomplices. A call into the police station alerted authorities that a robbery had been committed, and Officer Ed Barker and Sgt. Tom McNulty were called by the responding officers, and stopped the car, and arrested all four occupants at gunpoint.. Devine said that the suspects who were alleged to have entered the home were Justin Reynolds, 31, of 99 Porter Street and Lemar Lugo, 20, formerly of 91 Joyce Drive. Both were charged with armed home invasion and armed robbery. Also arrested in the car were Justin Picardi-Rivera, 20, of Windsor Woods in Canton, and Joshua King, 19, of 118 Lincoln Street. Both were charged with being accessories to armed home invasion and armed robbery. Residents should not be alarmed. Police do not believe it was a random crime, but that the victim knew the suspects involved.

(Posted @ 9 p.m. on 4/8/10)

 

Ex-Stoughton Police Officer Gets Probation After Pleading Guilty to Making False Statements

A former Stoughton police officer who recently pled guilty in federal court to making false statements to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), was sentenced today to three years’ probation and fined $3,000. United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz and Warren T. Bamford, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation - Boston Field Division, announced that Arlindo Romeiro, 37, of Stoughton, who resigned from the Stoughton Police Department, was sentenced today (4/8) for making false statements and representations to the FBI regarding an ongoing public corruption investigation. The Information alleged that Romeiro made these false statements and representations during the course of an interview on July 13, 2009. In imposing the sentence, the Honorable Patti B. Saris credited Romeiro’s cooperation with federal authorities in their ongoing probe of police corruption in Stoughton. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian T. Kelly, Chief of Ortiz’s Public Corruption Unit.

(News Release from FBI/posted @ 5 p.m. on 4/8/10)

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Stagnone beats Capozzoli for Selectmen's Seat

Town Moderator Howard Hansen swears in John Stagnone on April 13 (snyder photo)

Most Stoughton residents decided that voting wasn't worth the effort. No excuses. You were sick? Had to work? Out of town on business? In college? The Town Clerk had an abundant amount of absentee ballots that still sit unused in her office. 84% of the registered voters in town never bothered to fufill their constitutional privilege and cast a ballot. Can you imagine that? In countries where people die for the right to vote, the people of this town, for whatever reason, just didn't seem to care. 16% of the people here ended up deciding the fate of all of us.

John Stagnone, who has chaired a number of committees in town, serves on a few boards, and is the president of Stoughton Media Access Corp. (SMAC) got 1507 votes. Jerry Capozzoli, former acting chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals, and the owner of C & J Auto Body finished right behind with 1314 votes, according to the official figures of Town Clerk. 2870 were actually cast, including blanks and write ins.

Both candidates worked hard for victory, participating in endless debates, placing numerous ads in the local shopper, going door to door, holding signs in the square, and placing thousands of signs townwide on lawns and trees. And, in the end, less than 200 votes separated the candidates, and almost 15,000 people stayed home.

Stagnone, celebrating in his home with volunteers and friends, told Snyder's Stoughton that he wants to get right to work. "I'd like to see a three year budget plan that is required by Charter. We've never had one. We have to obey the Charter or change it. I'm looking at being a new selectmen, at the same time the town has welcomed a new police chief and town manager. I'm happy to have come out on top. I'm glad it's over. I care about the town, and I'm happy it worked out. I give thanks to my family and friends who worked so hard on my behalf."

Capozzoli, at the Village Pub with friends, family and supporters, was disappointed in the results. "I had felt support all over town before the election. Even this past weekend, people were asking for me to put signs on their lawns. It's really a disgrace that we had such a low turnout. But, we gave it a good effort, and came up just short. I'm thankful for all the people who worked on this campaign. They all worked so hard." When asked if he would run again in the future, Capozzoli said, "I don't see myself running again."

The people have spoken---but only a few. Stoughton is starting in a new direction, with a new selectman, a new town manager and a new police chief. It would be nice if a positive glow could be in the future, where the residents take ownership of their town, by getting more involved on boards, volunteering their time and talents---and VOTING to insure the future of our town. Three changes to our Charter were made on Tuesday. They are FOREVER. I'll say the same thing I've been writing here for 12 years----If you didn't vote, DON'T COMPLAIN.

School Committee: Thomas Colburn (I) 1681
                             Joyce Husseini        1456

 

Moderator: Howard Hansen (I)            2047  

 

ELECTION TIDBITS:

School Committee member Allan Mills topped the ticket for Town Meeting in Precinct 1. Stephanie Carrara, employed by the Town Clerk's office, topped Precinct 2. Retired DPW Director Larry Barrett topped the Precinct 3 Town Meeting vote. Billy Provost, a freshman at Bridgewater State, got elected in Pct. 3 in his first attempt at public office. William McNamara topped Pct. 4 voting, while Elizabeth Murphy led Precinct 5. Stoughton Fire Dept. Captain Scott Breen topped Precinct 6, Elizabeth Pietro topped Precinct 7, and Patricia MacNeil topped Precinct 8. Congratulations to everyone who took the time to take out papers and get involved in their town!

 

COMPLETE ELECTION RESULTS!

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A NEW DAWN FOR STOUGHTON POLICE........

CHIEF PAUL SHASTANY SWORN IN

Stoughton Police Honor Guard, Police Chief Paul Shastany, Town Manager Fran Crimmins, and the Board of Selectmen (snyder photo)

 

Selectman John Anzivino said it all, after a crowd of over 400 people assembled in Stoughton High School auditorium Monday night (4/5) for the swearing in ceremony for Police Chief Paul Shastany, a former Lt. in the Framingham Police Department. "We've shut the door on the past, and opened the door to the future," the vice chairman told me after it was over. Board Chairman Steve Anastos said the evening was "a very significant occasion for the great town of Stoughton. Stoughton is a good town, but it can be better. A rebirth is taking place. Pessimism and negativity is waning. More citizens are stepping up to volunteer, and expectations for a better tomorrow are high."

Framingham Police Chief Steven Carl, a 1977 graduate of Stoughton High School, said, "The Stoughton Police Department should be valued, nurtured, and supported. Under Chief Shastany, it could become the second best department in Massachusetts." Acting Stoughton Police Chief Thomas Murphy, a 1980 graduate of Stoughton High, said, "We have 32 officers sitting strong tonight, and seven officers of the Stoughton Police Honor Guard. Their presence tonight--of all these officers in one place--is the biggest sign of moving forward. These police officers have been under a tremendous amount of pressure the past six years. But, they continue to come in every day--no matter what is in the newspaper--and serve and protect the residents of Stoughton." He added, with his usual humor, "Why would Paul Shastany leave Framingham and come to Stoughton? I was thinking he had no idea what he was in for."

Chief Shastany finally got to speak, saying, "I am honored and shocked by how well I've been received. I feel so welcome and important. I will not let you down. My deep gratitude and committment to this job will sustain me. This isn't a doing job, it's a thinking job. I believe in what I do. I care about people and i want my officers to care about people. We must leave people better off than where we found them"

Some of the highlights of the evening included invocation and benediction by Father Joseph McDermott of Immaculate Conception Church, an appearance by Brazilian Consul General, the Honorable Ambassador Mario Saade; the singing of the national anthem by Mallory Breen, reciting of the Pledgec of Allegiance by cub scout David Wallace, and musical selections by the Stoughton High Jazz Band. In addition the Stoughton Police, Framingham Police, and Norfolk County Sheriff's Office Honor Guard, were also featured. (You try staying stationery for 90 minutes!) Outgoing selectman Joe Mokrisky deserves a lot of praise for putting it all together. Mention should also be made of Linda Ross of Catering by Linda for the delicious refreshments that followed, and the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce for providing flowers,

One of Chief Shastany's three daughters, Amanda, said his motto is "Stay true to your beliefs, no matter what the cost." The feeling in the room was electric, positive, and uplifting. Hopefully, the town will move forward in a big way, and the corruption that appeared in some former members of the police department will be buried in history.

(c) 2010 snydersstoughton.com

Some of the hundreds who turned out for the Monday night swearing in ceremony at Stoughton High. (snyder photo)

Ann Marie Shastany pins her husband. (Photo by Helenita Morais/www.hamkproductions.com )

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON STOUGHTON WATER!!!
For Water Users in Stoughton, MA

(posted April 2, 2010 @ 2 p.m.)

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TOWN WEBSITE GETS MAKEOVER

 The town’s official website, www.Stoughton-Ma.gov, has undergone a makeover.   Stoughton’s technology director, Dr. Larry Gray, said he has set it up to be self-sustaining.  Dr. Gray said he spent his own time—nights and weekends—designing the site so that is easily navigated by residents, and so “the average person can update the site without extensive website knowledge. They can post minutes, agendas, and news items in a timely fashion.  It is a work in progress and will continue for months. We have to get people in each department up to speed. Basically, we’re just collecting information.” 

Dr. Gray said that the website is really not part of his job, which involves all technology for the schools and the municipal departments. He adds, “This will need to be done by department heads or their designated employee. The new town manager really wants to see this happen.  In essence, I see each department area as essentially a mini-site. Department heads will be responsible for keeping it up to date with content updates.”  

New Town Manager Francis Crimmins tells Snyder’s Stoughton that the website update is really part of a program he’s instituting to help each department go from ‘good to great’.  “It is part of an effort to showcase the great work of our town departments.  I want the people in town, the town meeting members, and finance committee members to know what our employees do. I’m trying to do an organizational flow chart for all town departments, for the Board of Selectmen.  In this way, I can recommend to the Board what to prioritize in coming years.”    Crimmins added, “I asked the department heads to take a peek at the town website, and look to see what we had offered to the public. The website has a lot of potential, it needs to be maintained and updated.  Some departments needed help. Dr. Gray was generous with his time and set up a prototype.  The public will see changes, and the progress we are making. We’ll supply residents with more information than previously. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

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THIS WEATHER DUCKS.....Who'll Stop the Rain?

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Cheng Du to Re-Open

It's official. Cheng Du restaurant, which was destroyed in a downtown fire, is going to be re-opening at the former Phatt Boys location, 657 Washington Street, on Rt. 138. Snyder's Stoughton reached a spokesman for Sonny Tang, owner of the Mansfield location, and they have confirmed the purchase of the building. Sources there tell me that they expect to be open by sometime in early June, 2010. Their former location downtown at 762 Washington Street, owned by Irving and David Parsons, has not been altered since the fire.

(posted at 3 p.m. on 3/29/10)

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State Reaching Into Nonprofits Pockets

For the many fundraisers in town that advertise raffles, beware! The State wants a piece of the action. When a religious organization placed their paperwork in front of Nancy Webber, secretary for the Board of Selectmen, she flagged the word "raffle". Town Clerk Cheryl Mooney says that under Massachusetts law (C. 810, Acts of 1969), nonprofit organizations that are conducting raffles need to fill out an "Application for Permit to Conduct Raffles and Bazaars." You need to show the nonprofit purpose of the event, list those responsible for the raffle, and to what the need proceeds will be applied to. Then, once the forms are approved by Town Hall, a "Notice of Issuance of Raffle and/or Bazaar License " is sent to the Charitable Gaming Department of the Massachusetts State Lottery. In addition to these State requirements, the I.R.S. Revenue Code Section 3402 (q) requires any winnings over $600 be reported, and when proceeds exceed $1000. then 20% must be kept for federal withholding purposes. Numerous organizations do fundraisers all through the year. If your one-day liquor application notes raffles, expect to get the rest of the paperwork. Not picking on Webber or Mooney, they are just doing their jobs. But, I wanted to let residents who are involved in fundraisers know what is going on. The State of Massachusetts is going broke, and their solution is always the same---to reach further into our pockets----even organizations holding benefits for those in need.

(posted on March 26, 2010 @ 12:30 p.m.)

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