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Home My WebLink About1997North Andover Annual Town Report This year's annual report is in a new format. Our iment is to condense the content and focus more on strategic goals and achievements. Complete depash~ental reports and detailed financial information is available on request through the Town Clerk's office, 120 Main St. Our thanks to all departments and the people of the Town of North Andover for their con- tinued support and encouragement. On the cover of the 1997 North Andover Annual Town Report is the Soldiers and Sail- ors Monument, located in front of the North Andover Police Station. This monument was dedicated on June 14, 1913 to acknowledge Civil War soldiers. North Andover Service Listings Our Town INCORPORATED April 7, 1855 SITUATION About 24 miles north of Boston Latitude 42°40'' Longitude 71° 7" COUNTY Essex POPULATION 26,000 AREA Approximately 26.63 square miles ELEVATION 91 feet .847 inches above sea level at Town Building TOWN HALL Built in 1906 SENATORS IN CONGRESS Edward Kennedy (617) 565-3170 John Kerry (617) 565-8519 REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS John Tierney (508) 531-1669 ASSESSED VALUATION Real Estate Only Personal Property Total $1,749,201,600 $43,643,012 $1,792,844,612 TAX RATE For the period from Suly l, 1996-June 30, 1997 Residential $13.87, Commercial $16.61 TAX BILLS Tax bills are paid quarterly. Payments are due on Au- gust 1, November 1, February 1, and May 1. If unpaid by due date, interest will be added according to law from the date due to the date payment is made. Motor Vehicle Excise is due thirty days from date of issuance. Water bills are issued quarterly and are due 30 days from date of issuance. ANNUAL TOWN ELECTION First Tuesday in March TOWN MEETING Open Town Meeting Meets First Monday in May PRECINCT VOTERS LOCATIONS Precincts 1, 2, and 3 St. Michael's School Hall 80 Maple Avenue STATE REPRESENTATIVES 14th Essex - Precincts 1, 2, 3, and 6 Donna Cuomo (617) 722-2487 Precincts 4, 5, and 6 High School 675 Chickering Road 21 st Middlesex District - Precincts 4 and 5 Bradley H, Jones, Jr. (617) 722-2460 STATE SENATOR 3rd Essex Precincts 1, 2, 3, and 4. James P. Jajuga (617) 722-1604 1st Essex and Middlesex Precincts 5 and 6 Bruce E. Tarr- (617) 722-1600 Town Omces FIRE DEPARTMENT 124 Main Street Emergency: 9-1-1 PHONE: 688-9590 FAX: 688-9594 BUSINESS HOURS: 8:30-4:30 TOWN CLERK 120 Main Street PHONE: 688-9500 FAX: 688-9556 HOURS: Tuesday-Friday 8:30-4:30 Monday 8:30--7:30 POLICE DEPARTMENT 566 Main Street Emergency: 9-1-1 PHONE: 683-3168 FAX: 681-1172 TIT: 683-3168 HOURS: 24 hours a day PUBLIC LIBRARY 345 Main Street PHONE: 688-9505 FAX: 688-9507 HOURS: Monday-Thursday 10:00 ^.ia.-9:00 P.M. Friday and Saturday 10:00 n.ta-5:00 Sunday 2:00 t~.M--5:00 ~'.ta. Closed Weekends July and August PUBLIC WORKS 384 Osgood Street PHONE: 685-0950 FAX: 688-9573 HOURS: Office - 8:30-4:30 SENIOR CENTER 120R Main Street PHONE: 688-9560 FAX: 688-9563 HOURS: 8:30 A.t~.--4:30 P.M. TOWN MANAGER 120 Ma'm Street PHONE: 688-9510 FAX: 688-9556 SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION 675 Chickering Road PHONE: 794-1503 FAX: 794-0231 HOURS: 8:00-4:30 North Andover High School 675 Chickering Road 794-1711 North Andover Middle School 495 Main Street 794-1870 Atkinson Elementary School 111 Phillips Brook Road 794-0124 Bradstreet Early Childhood Center 70 Main Street 794-1677 Franklin Elementary School 2 Cypress Terrace 794-1990 Kittredge Elementary School 601 Main Street 794-1688 Sargent Elementary School 300 Abbott Street 794-3673 Thomson Elementary School 266 Waverly Road 794-1545 ASSESSORS Town Hall, Second Floor PHONE: 688-9566 FAX: 688-9556 Exemption Applications Motor Vehicle Excise Questions Property Assessments Tax Rate Information BOARD OF HEALTH Town Hall Annex, 146 Main Street PHONE: 688-9540 Communicable Diseases Info/Surveillance Environmental Health Concerns Food Establishment Permits/Complaints Food Sanitation Training Programs Health Screening: Blood Pressure, TB Home Visits Housing: Requirements for safe and sanitary housing Influenza Nuisance and Sanitation Complaints Public Swimming Pool Permits Rabies Vaccination Clinics: Dogs and Cats Recreational Camp Permits Subsurface Sewage Disposal: Permits and Informa- tion on Location Tanning & Massage Est. Permits Tobacco Control Program Vaccine Depot Well Drilling Permits BUILDING DEPARTMENT Town Hall Annex, 146 Main Street PHONE: 688-9545 ADA Coordinator Building Permits Building Information Demolition Permits Fireplace & Chimney Permits Gas Permits Masonary Permits Occupancy Permits Plumbing Permits Relocating Structure Permits Replacement Door Permits Replacement Window Permits Roofing Permits Sealer of Weight and Measures Sign Permits Swimming Pool Permits Tent Permits Vinyl Siding Permits Woodstove Permits Zoning By-Law Enforcement/Questions COMMISSION ON DISABILITIES American Disabilities Act Coordinator CONSERVATION COMMISSION Town Hall Annex, 146 Main Street PHONE: 688-9530 Wetlands Information COUNCIL ON AGING-4;ENIOR CENTER 120R Main Street PHONE: 688-9560 HOURS: Monday-Friday 8:30 ^.st.-4:30 P.M. Alzheimer's Identification/Intervention Program Assistance Programs Blood Pressure Clinics Choral Group Discussion Group Educational Programs Elders at Risk Fitness Programs Free Pamphlets Friendly Visitor Program Fund-Raising Handicapped Accessible Health Care Proxy Health Screenings Home Care Services Homestead Act Immunization Programs Income Tax Assistance Informational and Referral Lectures Lending Library Lunch Program Magazines and Newspapers Meals on Wheels Memorials Monthly Parties Newsletter Outreach Recreational Programs Senior/Disabled Tax Relief Program SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs for Elders) Telephone Reassurance Program Transportation Programs: Medical & Grocery Shopping Volunteer Opportunities Weight Maintenance Program Widows/Widowers Support Group EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SERVICES PHONE: 688-4904 Auxiliary Police Disaster Services Evacuation Coordination Services Liaison for State and Federal Agencies Local Emergency Planning Committee Radio Communication Capability with Local, State and Federal Agencies EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES PHONE: 9-1-1 FIRE DEPARTMENT 124 Main Street PHONE; Emergency 9-1-1 Non-Emergency 688-9590 Blasting Permits Burning Permits 1/15-5/1 Fire Prevention Fire Inspection - Smoke Detectors Flammable Liquids/LP Gas Permits Oil Heat Appliance Installation Sprinkler Fire Alarm Plan Review Sprinkler Installation Underground Fuel Tank Installation/Removal Permits LIBRARY 345 Main Street PHONE: 688-9505 FAX: 688-9507 HOURS: Monday-Thursday 10:00 ^.M.-9:00 Friday and Saturday 10:00 ^.M-5:00 Sunday 2:00 e.ta-5:00 l'.M. Closed Weekends July and August Anne Bradstreet Collection Book Discussion Series Books Books on Tapes Boston Globe on CD-ROM Camcorder Cassette Players Computers (PC and Mac) Conference Room Dial-Up Access Exhibits Friends of Stevens Memorial Library Geneology and Local History Handicapped Accessible Inter-Library Loan Language Tapes Large Print Books Magazines and Newspapers Meeting Room Merrimack Valley Library Consortium Member Museum Passes Music CD's On-line Periodical Database Original Art for Loan Phonedisc Photocopies (reduce and enlarge) Records Rental Books Reference Services Special Programs for Adults and Young Adults Storyhours/Children's Programs Talking Books for the Blind Tax Forms Television with Cable TV Hook-up Videos PARKING CLERK 120 Main Street PHONE: 688-9550 Parking Ticket Information/Payment PERSONNEL Town Hall 120 Main Street PHONE: 688-9530 Town Employment Opportunities PLANNING Town Hall Annex 146 Main Street PHONE: 688-9535 Flood Maps Planning Board Agendas Site Plan Review Subdivision Plans Zoning By-Law Zoning Map Information POLICE DEPARTMENT 566 Main Street PHONE: Emergency 9-1-1 Non-Emergency 683-3168 FAX: 681-1172 TI'Y: 683-3168 Adult Police Academy Alcohol Server Training Information Animal Control Auction Permits Bicycle Helmet Sales Bicycle Registration Burial Permits (Non-Business Hours) Business Security Surveys Car Seat Loan Program Child Identification Program Citizen Advisory Council Community Policing Crime Watch D.A.R.E. Program Detective Hot Line Firearm Permits School Safety Questions Student Police Academy Town Emergencies (Non-Business Hours) Traffic Control and Safety Issues PUBLIC WORKS 384 Osgood Street PHONE: 685-0950 EMERGENCY (Non-Business Hours): 683-3168 FAX: 688-9573 HOURS: Monday-Friday 8:30 ^.M.-4:30 ?.M. Field and Park Maintenance Boat and Fishing Permits - Lak~ Cochichewick Pothole and Road Hazard Repairs Public Tree Issues Recycling Permits Sewer Connections Sewer Blockages Snow Removal RegulaOons Street/Sidewalk Resurfacing Info. Trash & Recycling Collection Info. Water Connections Water Leaks Water Main Replacement Water Meters Watershed Information RECREATION PHONE: 688-0126 BEEPER: 387-6950 Arts in the Parks/Children's Theatre Band Concerts Boys Basketball Field/Park Administration Field/Playground Permits Field Trips Girls Basketball Girls Softball Indoor/Outdoor Skating Information Parent Guide to Children's Resources Playground Areas Program Information/Registration Seasonal Employment/Volunteer Opportunities Sports Organization Information Tennis Court Passes Women's Softball SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION - SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE 675 Chickering Road PHONE: 794-1503 FAX: 794-0231 HOURS: Monday-Friday 8:00 ^.~!.-4:30 P.M. Art: K-12 Athletics (794-3144) Community Schools Program (794-3080) Day Care Programs Breakfast Club Extended Kindergarten Kids top ! EXCEL Enrichment Prog. High School SAT Prep High School Driver ED. Men's Basketball Summer School Academic Remediation Camps Technology Training Computers: K-12 (794-3144) Continuing Education (794-1711) English as a Second Language Literary Publications Music: K-12 Physical Education: K-12 (794-3144) Special Education: Pre-School-12 (794-1717) SCHOOL CLOSINGS When weather conditions cause schools to be closed or to delay their openings, PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL DEPARTMENT, POLICE DEPART- MENT, OR FIRE DEPARTMENT Announcements are made on GOVERNMENT AC- CESS CHANNEL 47, local television stations (WBZ- Channel 4, WCVB-Channel 5, WHDH-Channel 7), and radio stations (WBZ AM, WRKO AM, WBMX FM, WCCM AM, WLLH AM, WHAV AM). SELECTMEN'S OFFICE Town Hall Main Floor PHONE: 688-9510 Appointments-Boards/Commissions Selectmen's Meeting Agendas Utilities Hearings STEVENS ESTATES AT OSGOOD HILL 723 Osgood Street PHONE: 682-7072 Facility Rental Information TOWN CLERK Town Hall, Main Floor PHONE: 688-9500 - General Information 688-9501 - Town Clerk Absentee Ballots Alcoholic Liquor License Appointed Committee Listing Automatic Amusement Device License Birth Certificates Bowling Alley/Billiard Pool License Business Certificates Census Information/Jury List Certification of Petitions Class 1 - Dealer License Class II - Used Cars License Class III - Junk Dealer License Common Victualler License Death Certificates Dog License - due January 1 Elected Officials Current Listing Entertainment License Fishing and Hunting License Justice of the Peace Marriage License Massachusetts Income Tax Forms Nomination Papers Notary Public Raffle Permits Residential Street Listing Voter Registration TREASURER/TAX COLLECTOR Town Hall Main Floor PHONE: 688-9550 Betterments Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Payments Municipal Lien Certificates Parking Ticket Payments Real Estate Information/Payments Water/Sewer Bill Payments VETERANS' SERVICES Town Hall - Lower Level PHONE: 688-9525 682-6378 - Leave Message All Veteran Benefits Discharge Papers Recorded Flags and Holders for Graves Headstones and Grave Markers Veterans Assistance YOUTH SERVICES 33 Johnson Street PHONE: 682-9000/688-9515 Emergency Beeper: 508-387-4919 Crisis Intervention Information and Referral Social Programs Recreation Programs Juvenile Court Services Support Services Student-Run Services Adventure Programs Ropes Course Clothes Closet Summer Programs Job Bank Peer Mediation Joseph N. Hermann Youth Center Prevention Programs ?.A-Hour Emergency Response Attendance Officer Holiday Giving Program Parenting Programs Family Services Youth Concert Series Town Officers and Committees Officials and Term Expiration Dates ACCOUNTANT ** Laurie Elliott ASSESSORS, BOARD OF *** George R. Barker, Jr., Chairman Garrett C. Boles, MMA Daniel J. Leonard CABLE TV COMMITTEE ** George I. Dague, Chairman Richard M. Gacioch Robert S. Parker Arthur S. Fundeldian Mark Catologna Vincent G. Rauseher Thomas M. Finelli David Torrisi, Selectrnen's Rep. (1999) (1999) (1999) (1999) (1999) (1999) (1999) (1998) (1998) (2000) (2000) CONSERVATION COMMISSION ** loseph W. Lynch, Chairman (1998) George Reich (1998) Robert Mansour (2000) Albert P. Manzi, Jr. (1999) Deborah Feltovic (2000) Joseph Mottola (1999) Scott Masse (1998) Beth Westcott, Associate (1999) Michael Howard, Conservation Administrator COUNCIL ON AGING ** Mafia V. Rosati, Chairperson (2000) D. Thomas Cantone (1999) Albert S. Movesian (2000) Robert Driscoll (1999) Frank Gennarelli (2000) Elsie Heinz (1999) lean Mueller (1998) Adele McConaghy (!998) Eugene Thibodeau (1998) Domenic Ton'isi (1999) Nicholas Ventrillo (1998) Kathleen B. Gormar., Director, Elder Services COMMISSION ON DISABILITY ISSUES *** Susan Halloran, Chair. (1998) Barbara Currier (2000) Karen Jacobs Gould (1997) James F. Lyons 0999) Nina Rauscher (1998) Donaid B. Stewart, Elected Off. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY ** John J. Coco, Director Jeffrey J. Coco, Deputy Director Richard Stanley, Police Services Officor William Dolan, Warning Services Officer Richard C. Boettcber, tIC Aux./Speciai Police loseph Sullivan, Jr., Communications Officer Richard Slade, Radiological Defense Officer John Lyons, Senior Operations Officer Leonard Seiners, Education and Training Officer (1998) FINANCE COMMITrEE **** Michael Oarron, Chairman William D. Whittaker, Jr. James Gammie Peter North Peter Phelps Rosemary Smedile (1998) (2ooo) (1997) (1999) FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION, DIVISION OF *** Kevin E Mahoney, Director FIRE CHIEF ** William V. Dolan GRAVES REGISTRATION OFFICER *** Richard E. LaHaye GREATER LAWRENCE COMMUNITY ACTION COUNCIL ** William McEvoy Joseph Morkeski GREATER LAWRENCE REGIONAL TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT COMMITTEE REPRESENTATIVE * lohn J. Caffrey (1999) GREATER LAWRENCE SANITARY DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE ** John Pallone (2000) BOARD OF HEALTH *** Gayton Osgood, Chairman John S. Rizza, D.M.D. Francis P. MacMillan, M.D. Sandra Start, Health Administrator Xfirginia Foulds, R.N. Susan Ford, Inspector (1998) (1999) (2000) HISTORICAL COMMISSION ** Kathleen Szyska, Chair (2000) Maria Ward (1999) Patricia Long (1997) Anne Erickson (1998) Gerilyn Smith (1998) HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION ** George Schmender, Chairman (2000) Marie Ward (1999) Kathleen Szyska (1998) Robert Stevens (1999) Harry Azn°ian (1999) Martha Larson (2000) Leslie Hopkins (1998) Mary Champsi, Alternate (1997) Patricia Hayward, Alternate (1999) HOUSING AUTHORITY * William McEvoy, Chairman (2000) Clare Coco (2001) Anna O'Connor (1999) Keith Mitchell (1999) Helen Soucy (1998) Hope R. Minicucci, PHM, Executive Director INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY *** John R. Kalin James J. McInnis, Esq. George Schruender INSPECTORS*** D. Robert Nicetta, Bldg. Commissioner & Zoning Enforcement Officer Kenneth Surette, Local Inspector James L. Diozzi, Plumbing & Gas Inspector James DeCola, Electrical Inspector Robert E. Atwood, D.M. LIBRARY TRUSTEES (l~placement by vote of remaining members) Martha Salisbury, Chair Mary Ellen Osgood William Hickey William Duffy, Jr. E. William Hansen Arthur Larson Peter Lafond Sue Ellen Holmes, Library Director (1999) (1998) (2002) (1998) 0998) (1998) (1998) (1998) LICENSING COMMISSIONERS * Donald B. Stewart, Chairman John R. Leeman, Jr. Kevin P. Foley William B. Duffy David Torrisi (2000) (2OOO) (1998) (1999) (1999) LOCAL ARTS COUNCIL ** Judith Hillner, Chair (1996) Pafficia Constantineau (1998) Jill Barker (2000) Joannine Rose Hardy (2000) Lisa Lousigian (1999) Jacob Zarx (1998) Peter Baylies (1998) MERRIMACK VALLEY PLANING COMM. (Appointed by Planning Board) John Smolak PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATOR*** Chris Liebke (1998) PLANNING BOARD *** Joseph V. Mahoney, Esq., Chairman (1999) Richard Rowen (1999) Alison Lescarbeau (1998) Richard A. Nardella (1998) John Simons (2000) Alberto Angles, Jr. Associate Member (1998) Kathlcen Bradley Colwell, Esq., Town Planner PLANNING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT *** William J. Scott, Director POLICE CHIEF ** Richard M. Stanley PUBLIC WORKS, DIVISION OF *** J. W'flliam Hmurciak RECREATION COUNCIL ** William McEvoy, Chairman (2000) William Boutillier (1999) William McCarthy (2000) John Driscoll (1999) Brian Finn ( 1998) William Blackstock (2000) Jay McDonald (1998) Joseph Walsh (1998) Jeanne Lee (1999) REGISTRAR OF VOTERS, BOARD OF ** Leo E. Lefond, Chairman (1998) Mary Alice Windle (1999) Helen Tacy (2000) Joyce A. Bradshaw, Town Clerk (Ex Officio) SCHOOL BUILDING COMMITTEE (Appointed by School Committee & Town Moderator) Louis Minicucci, Chair Marilyn G. Doyle John Lyons Diane J. Huster Samuel Ameen Domenic Scalise Paul Szymanski SCHOOL COMMITTEE * Diane J. Huster, Chair Marilyn G. Doyle David J. Carney John S. Lyons Louis Minicucci, Jr. (1999) (2000) (1998) (1999) (2000) SCHOOL, SUPERINTENDENT OF (Appointed by School Committee) Dr. George I. Blaisdell SEALER OF WEIGHTS & MEASURF_~ *** Leonard White SELECTMEN, BOARD OF * Kevin P. Foley, Chairman John R. Leemah, Jr. Donald B. Stewart William B. Duffy, Jr. David Torrisi (1998) (2OOO) (2OOO) (1999) (1999) STEVENS ESTATE, BOARD OF TRUSTEES John J. Willis, Esq. John McGamy, Esq. Albert E Cullen, Esq. Martha Larson E. William Hansen Richard Reining Marc Torrisi, Esq. TOWN CLERK *** Joyce A. Bradshaw TOWN COUNSEL ** Kopelman & Paige, P.C, TOWN MANAGER ** Robert J. Halpin TOWN MODERATOR * Charles A. Salisbury TOWN REPORT COMMITTEE** Joyce Bradshaw Janet Eaton Karen Robertson Guenter Loesser VETERAN'S AGENT & BURIAL AGENT *** Richard E. LaHaye (2000) (2000) YOUTH SERVICES BOARD OF DIRECTORS ** David Rand, Chair (2000) loyce A. Bradshaw (2000) Peter Breen (1999) W'dliam Buck (1999) Gayle Miller (1998) Brenda Clark (1998) Peter Coco (2000) Ex Officio: Donald B. Stewart, Selectman David Ton'isi, Selectman Tracy Castiglione, Police Department Richard Gorman, Youth Services Director ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS ** William J. Sullivan, Chairman Walter Soule Raymond Vivenzio Robert Ford John Pallone Scott Karpinski, Associate Joseph Fads, Associate Ellen Mclntyre, Associate (1997) (1998) (1998) (1997) 0999) (1999) (1997) (1998) * Elected Official ** Appointed by Selectmen *** Appointed by Town Managar **** Appointed by Town Moderator Report of the Board of Selectmen and Town Manager The Board of Selectmen and Town Manager are pleased to submit their 1997 Annual Report to the residents of North Andover. Fiscal Stability through Sound Financial Planning 1997 was a watershed year for the Town particularly in the area of financial management and a concert~ effort to restore fiscal stability to the Town's operations. The Town Manager along with the Board of Selectmen the School Committee, and the Finance Committee developed and jointly adopted a comprehensive set of official Financial Policies to govern financial decision making by Town policy makers and, hopefully, voters at Town Meeting. In addition to creating a genuine shared, mutual understanding among the Town's major policy makers as how the Town's f'mances should be managed, the policies have established specific benchmarks and performance measures for financial reserves (Free Cash), long term debt, and capital outlay. The established of these shared goals allowed for the development of an unprecedented consensus as to financial steps to be taken to fix the town's financial problems on a sustainable, multiyear basis - a consen- sus which had been sorely lacking in the past as various groups battled for scarce short term bud- get dollars and employed short term, crisis oriented "fixes". Finally using the policies as a cornerstone for public discussions, the Town leaders made a concerted effort to engage the pub- lic in budget discussions and decision making concerning the financial future of the Town gov- ernment. The Town Manager delivered the first ever "State of the Town" address and the Selectmen appointed a Citizens Advisory Committee and a Business and Industry Panel to review and pro- vide input on the Town's financial situation over the next three to five years. It was this concerted effort among all town leaders to develop consensus and communicate a broad based financial plan which lead to voter approval of a modest but critically important general services override of $1,346,000 at a special town election in March 1997 - only the second such voter approved over- ride in North Andover since the inception of Proposition 2 1/2 in 198i). "That Which is Measured Gets Managed!" Following through on a 1996 recommendations from the Town's Strategic Planning Commit- tee the Selectmen and Town Manager continued to emphasize further progress in implementing a new Performance Based Budget system in North Andover. Under the direction of the Town's Direction of Finance, Town and School Department budget managers entered a second year of budgeting under this new and vastly different "results oriented/performance based" budgeting system. Where traditionally governmental budgeting is intended to decide and monitor how money gets spent, contemporary performance budgeting tries to establish the desired level of service and then monitor the cost efficiency and quality effectiveness of those service levels. The progress being made in this area is important to for both planning for the right level of services desired by North Andover residents as well as communicating how well the Tow~ is performing in terms of cost and efficiency. While expenditure accountability remains improvement, ultimately our resi- dents want value for the tax dollars and, at its heart, performance budgeting seeks to assure that they receive it. But Performance Based Budgeting is but one part of a larger Performance Management Sys- tem being created by the Town Manager and a Senior Management Team as the center piece for Town Government to renew its focus on service quality for both internal and external customers of Town services. A complete Performance Management System is an organization built around a complete management commitment to quality improvement: Performance Management System · Performance Based Planning: · Performance Based Budgeting: · Performance Measurement: · Performance Evaluation: What are the service needs, wants and preference of our residents? What axe the cost and quality measures for those ser- vice expectation? How well did the Town Management Team(s) meet those expectations? How much did individuals contribute to those team results? · Pay for Performance: How much should individuals be rewarded for those results? The Town has made a significant investment over the past year in enhancing communication among town employees and challenging them professionally. The results of this effort of provid- ing quality service have been a noticeable decline in complaints received in the Board of Selectmen's office. The various Town divisions and departments under the direction of the Town Manager have developed shared vision and mission statements and as well as a better mutual understanding of true measures of Town performance in fulfilling those missions. The Town management team is embarked upon a major organizational change effort in which we will de- emphasize the 30-40 departments, isolated and organized largely around the need to control bud- gets and expenditures, and to elevate our thinking as leaders and managers around the eight large missions of the Town: Missions for the Town of North Andover · Citizen Safety and Security · Emergency Response · Child Development · Community Preservation · Environmental Protection and Health · Traffic and Pedestrian Circulation · Quality Water Supply · Community and Human Services Capital Investment Capability and Building/Facilities Planning As another more objective measure of progress to restore fiscal stability, Moody's Investment Service increased the Town of North Andover's long term bond rating from 'Baal' to'A3'. Like- wise, the Standard and Poor's investment rating for the Town was increased from 'A-' to 'A'. The upgraded bond rating is a direct benefit to North Andover tax payers who will enjoy low interest costs for borrowing. The measure has already saved hundreds of thousand of dollars on long term debt which had been issued. This is a significant improvement in terms of the Town's efforts to face a long list of needed building and facilities improvements over the next five to ten year, including · Overcrowding and Managing the "Open Space Classroom" Concept as Enrollments increase at North Andover High School. · Replacing the old, antiquated cent~l fu, e station on Main St. and undersized Police Station with a new combined Police/Fire Facility somewhere in the downtown service area. · Renovating and expanding the existing Town Offices on Main St. to meet American's with Disabilities Act requirements and other building codes. · Constructing a new "out country" elementary school. Labor Relations and Employee Empowerment The Selectmen authorized and carried out comprehensive management study as paxt of the Police Department employee/management relations improvement project. The report contains a wide range of solid recommendations for improving the Department's performance and overall employee relations. The Town Manager and Chief of Police are committed to an action plan which systematically implements the recommendations and, while much remains to be done, the report has formed the basis for an overall improvement in labor relations over the past year. Fueled with a $204,000 share of the general services override, the Police Department overtime budget was more realistically funded and, therefor, a one source of much of the labor strain was reduced. At the close of the year, the most significant obstacle in the way of continued improvement in our labor relations atmosphere within the Police Department is outstanding issue of a new union can- tract with Patrol Officers and Sergeants to replace the agreement which expired June 30, 1995. The contract has been submitted to a neutral arbitrator and a decision is expected early in 1998. Economic Development and the Lawrence Municipal Airport in North Andover The City of Lawrence owns approximately 500 acres of industrial land in North Andover in the form of the Lawrence Municipal Airport. The Town Manager has encouraged the City to look at the economic development potential of developing the airport property for industrial and of- rice uses. The airport operations are currently subsidized by the City by approximately $100,000 per year. The Town believes that the Lawrence and North Andover could jointly develop the prop- eny and create substantial economic development value for the Merrimack Valley while jointly sharing the tax revenues between the two local governments. While the City has not reached a conclusion on the furore of the airport operations, the Town and City successfully negotiated an agreement to develop a fifty two acre parcel at the airport located in North Andover. The development will mean hundreds of new jobs and hundreds of thousand of dollars in new revenue for the communities to share under a one of a kind revenue sharing arrangement. Solid Waste Disposal Fees and Host Community Negotiations with Wheelabrator Environmental Systems The Town is facing escalating solid waste tipping fees through the year 2005 under a poorly executed contract forced on the so-called NESWC communities in the early nineteen eighties. The Special Town Meeting in the fall of 1996 voted notto extend the existing service agreement with Wheelabrator Environmental Systems (WES) to dispose of our solid waste beyond the year 2005 as one potential mechanism for leveling out those fees. The same town meeting authorized the Board of Selectmen to negotiate a first ever Host Community Agreement with the plant operators in hopes of improving upon the host community benefits due North Andover. By the close of 1997 the Town Manager efforts produced an proposed agreement which would, if accepted by the Selectmen, · stabilize North Andover's solid waste disposal fees through increased host community pay- ments to North Andover · provide earmarked funds to hire environmental expertise to allow the Board of Health to di- rectly monitor the plant and enforce track routes, eliminates the threat of incineration of sew- age sludge at the plant · while ensuring the Town's flexibility to takes its solid waste anywhere it wishes after the year 2005 as demanded by the special town meeting in 1996. The Selectmen have not year acted on the agreement preferring to do so after local permitting approvals of the air pollution control retrofit at the plant are complete. Personnel Management In the area of personnel administration, a new classification system and a pay for performance plan has been developed and adopted for the town's management and professional/technical staff. The Town Manager's concept for "Pay for Performance" is in concert with his overall effort to orient town government towards a Performance Management System. The Town Manager's phi- losophy of "Plan for Results", "Budget for Results", and "Measure for Results" is strongly sup- ported by the Board of Selectmen and is at the heart of the North Andover town government. Stevens Estate at Osgood Hill Conference Center The Selectmen appointed seven individuals to the Osgood Hill Board of Trustees, to develop a business plan for the future operations of the Stevens Estate Conference Center at Osgood Hill. The Trustees have assumed management control of the center from the DPW; secured a grant from the Mass. Development Finance Agency to prepare a Request for Proposal to eventually select a private contractor to mn the center for the Town; and a grant from the Mass. Historic Commis- sion to under take approximately $160,000 in repairs to the roof, gutters and masonry of the his- toric Steven Estate. The grants were identified and secured by Community Development Director William Scott despite intense competition among other communities. Senior Center Expansion The expansion of the Senior Center will double the size of the existing building at a time when demand for services is at a premium and will relieve the need for the project to compete for town funds with other priority facility needs in the Town. This project takes advantage of a $600,000 Small Cities Grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, secured by the Council of Aging with the leadership of Community Development Director William Scott. At the annual Town election in March, Donald B. Stewart and John R. Leeman Jr. were re- elected to new terms on the Board of Selectmen. Marylin Doyle was reelected to the School Com- rnittee and was joined by Louis Minnicucci as a first term School Committee member. Voters also went to the polls in April and voted to override proposition 2 1/2 for two separate questions. Vot- ers supported a general override of $1.3 million to avoid trash fees, maintain police patrol cover- age, expand library hours, maintain educational services, and to restore cuts in legal services budget. The Town also approved a single debt exclusion question of $8.4 million to construct a new Thompson elementary school. In closing, the Board of Selectmen and Town Manager believe that the 1997 was very much a year of rebuilding and progress for North Andover. It was a year of unprecedented communica- tion and cooperation between the Selectmen, Finance Committee and School Committee which should serve as a model in the future. It was also a year in which the Town Manager completed his first complete year building upon the individual strengths of department heads and employ- ees to forge a more and more effective Management Team to address the needs of North Andover. We wish to thank all of those who contributed to improving North Andover Town Government for their contributions throughout the year. BOARD OF SELECTMEN TOWN MANAGER WmL~ DOFFY, JR. K~v~ FOLEY JOHN LEEMAN DONALD STEWART DAVID TORISSl ROBERT J, HALPIN North Andover Town Offices, building built in 1906. Report of the Finance Committee Committee Role The Finance Committee is a nine member board of volunteer citizens appointed by the Town Moderator for a term of three years. In a town meeting form of government, the role of the Finance Committee is to provide departmental fiscal oversight and make appropriate financial recommen- dations to town meeting. The committee reviews ongoing revenue and expense projections as well as future budget needs. Based on detailed review and analysis we make recommendations that we believe will best balance the needs of the community with expected revenues. FY '97 Summary In FY '97 the town was faced with an inability to continue the current level of services with expected revenues. The regular tax levy increase provided by Proposition 2 1/2 could not keep pace with rapidly rising solid waste disposal fees and ongoing population increases. As a result, the town began to consider overrides to meet these ongoing operations expense needs and an override for the construction of Thomson Elementary School. Various 3 and 5 year projected rev- enue and expense models were developed to determine what general override dollar value would be required to meet these operations expenses. The projections indicated that $2.3 million and $4 million would be required, respectively, to maintain services over the given time periods. How- ever, in the judgement of the Selectmen, either amount was too large to ask of townspeople, given the impact of previous oven'ides for Osgood Hill and the Middle School. As a result, Selectmen proposed a $1.3 million override that would help meet expenses for FY '98. The Finance Corn- miRe, e, Selectmen, and School Committee supported both oven-ides. However, the passing vote margins were close; some Committee members and Selectmen reviewing the results believe a larger override may not have been successful. There are a few primary reasons for our inability to meet ongoing budget needs: · School population growth impacting operational expenses · Annual existing departmental salary growth exceeding 2.5% * Health and Retirement plan annual expense growth of approximately 8% * Relatively small commercial tax base and growth · Increasing solid waste disposal fees Each year the town averages approximately $650,000 of new tax revenue from growth in the tax base, approximately 60% of the growth is from residential construction and 20% from com- mercial. If you accept the premise that new growth revenue should be utilized to meet growth- related needs, then other expenses cannot exceed the normal 2.5% increase. On an annual basis, our school population is averaging an increase of 100-110 students with an average per student expenditure of approximately $5300. If class size is to be maintained, approximately $530,000- $583,000 of new growth tax revenue is utilized. As a result, only approximately $70,000--$140,000 would remain for infrastructure improvements or normal expenses exceeding 2.5%. This amount is not substantial when looked at in light of normal expenses exceeding 2.5% and other projects that can quickly use up this revenue. For example, last year a worthwhile proposal was devel- oped to provide a new youth center in town and it was passed at town meeting against Finance Committee and Selectmen recommendations that suggested it was not affordable. The town por- tion of the annual debt payment required to support the Youth Center is expected to be $100,000 annually. In FY '97, the health benefits and snow budgets exceeded plan and $640,000 was transferred from "free cash reserves" to meet the expense. While "free cash" is in place exactly for this type of unforeseen expense, it reduced the "frae cash" to half of policy-required levels. Moreover, with- out some recovery from the reduced portion the town bond rating is likely to decrease in 1998, increasing borrowing costs in future years. FY '98 and Beyond · The general override last year provided $550,000 earmarked for rising solid waste disposal costs, which will enable the town to meet rising costs through FY 2002. However, disposal costs continue to increase through the FY 2005. To meet this expense the Town Manager and Selectmen have been negotiating to reduce and/or offset this expense. This effort was signifi- cantly aided by pressure from environmental groups. A proposal was developed that would provide fees from the site operator that would be utilized to offset these expected expenses. The majority of fees would be scheduled to be paid in FY '99 and invested to grow to meet the expected cost increases. To work as designed, Selectmen would need to adopt the proposal within the next year. · The town is faced with a Police Arbitration Award exceeding the amount set aside to meet ex- pected salary settlement increases. · The School Committee has developed a proposal for additional site work in preparation for a new high school. · A forward thinking proposal to acquire the Foster Farm property for open space and future school construction. · A proposal is under development to acquire a site for a new public safety facility. These items cannot be easily funded from existing tax revenue sources without reducing ser- vices. Decisions on many of these and similar items are made each year at town meeting and at the voting booth; we urge you to participate. Respectfully submitted, Pu-r~*R NORTH, CHAIRMAN MICHAEL GARRON WmLL~M D. WurrrxKER, JR., ViCE Cu~m JAMES GAMmE ~T~R PHELPS ROSEMARY SMED~ Report of the Assessors Office Aggregate value of real estate ~ 12 month Aggregate value of personal property $1,749,201,600.00 $43,643,012.00 Real estate tax levy - 12 months Personal property tax levy - 12 months $24,950,543.54 $724,910.43 Residential rate per thousand C.I.P. rate per thousand $13.87 $16.61 Water lien (from tax collector) Sewer lien (from tax collector) Interest (water) (from tax collector) $142,564.56 $82,358.75 $16,718.52 Betterment with Interest Chapter 380 (sewer) Chapter 40 (water) Commited interest (sewer) Commited interest (water) $78,662.82 Chapter80(draln) $0.00 $528.00 Meter $0.00 $1,100.82 Trafficlights $18,226.27 $153.45 Motor Vehicle Bills and Tax $ Committed to Collector in FY 97 Num taxed 1995 vehicles 81 1996 vehicles 3182 1997 vehicles 20,228 Levy of vehidestaxed $7,209.33 $337,256.86 $2,027,461.66 Buildings and Vacant Land Assessed Single family 5624 Condominiums 1256 Misc. res. 27 Two family 476 Three family 41 Four-eight family 46 Vacent land 825 Residential/commercial 60 Commercial buildings and land 409 Industrial buildings and land Personal propperty accounts Chapter 61-forest property Chapter 61 a-farm property Chapter 61b-recreational land accounts Exempt buildings and land Public utilities Utilities valued by state 84 557 5 137 4 380 3 3 Report of the Town Accountant Report of the Financial operations for the fiscal year beginning June 30, 1996 are as follows: On May 1, 1996 town meeting members approved the Fiscal year 1997 budget for the Town. The results of the town meeting are as follows: Operating Budget - Salaries Operating Budget - Expenses Less offsets Subtotal Special Articles. Raise and Appropriate Article 5 - Master Plan study Article 12 - Reserve Fund Capital Improvements Authorized Article 9 - Various Raise and Appropriate Article 9 - Various Bonded Original Budget $26,050,214.02 $13,885,613.17 $(20,660.00) $39,915,167.19 $75,000.00 $75,000.00 $102,270.00 On October 29, 1996 special town meeting members approved a supplemental budget for tis- cai year 1997. The results of the town meeting are as follows: Operating Budget - Salaries Operating Budge - Expenses Less Offsets Change $100,818.00 $80,000.00 $180,818.00 Article 5 - Architectural fees for Schools This appropriation was a transfer from overlay surplus New Budget $26,151,032.02 $13,965,613.17 $(20,660.00) $40,095,985.19 $275,000.00 At theAnnual Town Meeting in May of 1997 there was a transfer from Free Cash and surplus article balances that increased the operating budget, The results of the town meeting are as follows: Operating Budget - Salaries Operating Budge - Expenses Less Offsets Change New Budget $26,151,032.02 $870,000.00 $14,835,613.17 $(20,660.00) $40,965,985.19 On June 30, 1996, the long term debt balance outstanding was $24,792,933.00 During the tis- cai year 1997, the Town entered into long term debt borrowing in the amount of $12,538,300.00 and retired the mount of $2,099,399.01 These transactions resulted in an outstanding long-term debt balance as of Sune 30, 1997 in the amount of $35,231,833.99 Respectfully submitted, LAUP. iI~ A. Euaorr Tow~ Accoc~rrA~rr Report of the Town Treasurer As Town Treasurer, I submit my report for the 12 months ending June 30, 1997: Balance on Hand, July 1, 1996 Receipts for Fiscal 1997 Distributions for Fiscal 1997 Balance, June 30, 1997 $17,490,321.23 90,962,312.70 108,452,633.93 90,423,182.60 $18,029,451.33 Reconciliation of Cash Fleet Bank Boston Safe Deposit M.M.D.T. Century Bank Lockbox State Street Bank Eastern Bank BankBoston BankBoston - Escrow Total $ 632,934.58 2,083,255.31 9,064,083.87 22,634.73 1,662,719.23 728,368.48 152,355.37 3.683.099.76 $18,029,451.33 Uncollected Balances - June 30, 1997 Real Estate Personal Property Motor Vehicle Excise 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 $ 386,697.22 9,266.31 (1,482.31) 5,181.62 6,760.15 494.86 5,328.64 5,195.49 3,412.19 3,198.11 3,146.88 6,758.29 60,305.16 38,254.84 20,601.64 16,919.56 19,419.98 22,190.17 Respectfully submitted, KEVlN F. MAHOIqEY, DIRECTOR DMSlON OF FINANCE Report of the Town Clerk The Office of the Town Clerk is the information center for the Town - the "General Informa- tion'' source. We are the first line of assistance for our customers. The conclusion of our 350th Anniversary Year was indeed hectic. While actively involved in all events, our mandated activi- ties continued. On Tuesday September 17, 1997 the State Primary Election was held. Although the turnout was low, the vast preparations remain the same. On Tuesday November 5, 1996, the State Election was held, with a turnout of 74% of our 15,749 registered voters. The challenge of the Central Voter Registration System complicated by Registry of Motor Vehicle Voter registration difficulties showed the true abilities of the wardens and election workers. Their patience and diligence makes this and all elections work. Results available by 9:00 P.M. was quite different from the 1994 State Election when the first results came to Town Hall at 3:45 A.M. The sun rose on November 6, 1996 with a strong indication of a full Congressional recount in the 'fleroey-Torkildsen race. Our office was completely engulfed for four weeks as we prepared for the recount. The outstanding support of my staff, but most especially of the Board of Registrars, made this rare event mn smoothly. Thanks must go to all the workers, the staff of the Library for hosting the event, the candidates, attorneys and observers for the candidates, and the Elections Division of the Secretary of State's office. A special thank-you to Anna Foster who stepped in to help as an Assistant Registrar. Coordinating a "Running-for-Office" Seminar in conjunction with the Office of Campaign and Political Finance is another yearly event. The Annual Town Election was held Monday March 3, 1997 with John R. Leemah, Jr. and Donald B. Stewart reelected as Selectmen for a three-year tenn. Louis P. Minicucei, Jr. joined the School Committee along with veteran member Marilyn G. Doyle. Charles A. Salisbury was again elected Moderator for three years. Annual Town Meeting preparation involves receiving all Warrant Articles, certifying voter signatures, preparing, editing, and mailing the Warrant to 9,100 households. I am also responsible for all logistical preparations and arrangements for the meeting. This difficult task involves inter- action with the community, and other Town Departments to provide as much information to the community. Once bylaws are ratified by Town Meeting, the changes must be submitted to the Office of the Attorney General for approval and subsequently posted. A Special Town Election on May 6, 1997 had a turnout of 29% of 15,921 Registered Voters. The passage of the Thomson School Construction and a General Operating Override was achieved. Issuing and renewal of dog licenses has undergone extraordinary response. License totals have double from 600 to almost 1,300 dogs licensed. The task of automation, while difficult to ftrst accomplish, allows lost animals to be returned, rabies vaccinations monitored, and assure citizen compliance with the regulation. We look forward to even greater participation. Other ongoing projects the Town Clerk's Office is focusing on are · Increased Voter Registration and Census Return · Maintaining expansion of VRIS system to certify nomination and petition signatues, maintain purged voter lists, establish voter history and activity · Prepare for Census 2000 - the 10 year Federal Program · Begin work on political redistricting to come in 2001 · Continue to process more than 25,000 changes into the Voter Registration system each year · Automate records such as UCC filings, Business Certificates, Underground Storage Permits, Federal and Massachusetts Tax Liens, and Street Acceptances · Try to continue to serve our expanding population - now over 26,000 residents and over 16,500 Registered Voters · Maintain and act as agent for the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife The Town Clerk's statutory obligation to record, maintain, and issue certified copies of all Vital Records requires precise diligence. We pride ourselves in offering same-day response to our cus- tomers' requests. We appreciate the needs of our citizens. This level of service is not always avail- able in other communities. Our office recorded 266 Deaths, 149 Marriages, and 336 Births in Calendar Year 1996. In 1997 there were 253 Deaths, 127 Marriages, and 345 Births. The Office of the Town Clerk handles the entire licensing process for the Licensing Commis- sioners. This involves all issuance, changes, violations, record keeping, renewals, and correspon- dence for Liquor, Automatic Amusement, Common Victualler, other Permits as well as the coordination of Pole Petition requests through Bell Atlantic and Massachusetts Electric. As keeper and archivist of Town records our task is especially difficult with severe space con- straints. Filings we administer include Uniform Commercial Code recordings, Planning Board and Conservation Decisions, keeping original bond agreements and consultant fees, and all legal litigation. Minutes for all Town Committees and Boards must be permanently recorded and main- tained. Town Meeting Records and minutes and a repository for all policy and procedures for the town since 1855 are key to the preservation and integrity of the Town of North Andover's history and legal standing. The dedication of my staffis the only mason all these responsibilities are possible. Janet Eaton, Assistant Town Clerk, and Virginia Sullivan are why we are able to provide such a high level of service with limited resources. Special recognition must go to the Board of Registrars--Leo Lafond, Helen Tacy, and Mary Windle who provide the support for Town Meeting and Elections. Their years of dedicated service to the community and their personal integrity make our local demo- cratic process. The team effort of all other Town Departments, elected and appointed officials, and most important of all our residents and visitors make the Town of North Andover the special community we are. My thanks to them for another successful year. Respectfully submitted, lovce A. Be~a~s~w, Tovo~ C~ Special thanks to St. Michael's School, polling location for Precincts 1, 2, and 3. Report of the Community Development Office Introduction The Community Development Office serves as the management arm of the Community De- velopment and Services Division. Community Development consists of the Director of Commu- nity Development and the Administrative Assistant to the Director. Community Development is responsible for the direct oversight of personnel and the applicable personnel records for the con- servafion, building, health, and planning departments. To a lesser degree the CD Department oversees the personnel management of the services departments: Youth, Recreation, Veterans, Elder Services. The Library Department, while under the auspices of Community Services, manages their own personnel functions. Moving projects toward implementation, Community Development serves as technical and administrative staff to the following committees: · Master Han Committee, · Osgood Hill Trustees, · Senior Center Building Committee, · Youth Center Building Committee, · Public Safety Building Committee, · Watershed Study Committee. The Community Development Office has taken a proactive role in the development of mu- nicipal projects by facilitating the selection of consultants, coordinating, managing project funds and providing technical expertise. In the calendar year 1997 the Community Development De- partment expanded the prior role of management oversight to include project management and public facilities development. Past Year Overview The 1997 Activity chart indicates the time allocation of the department for the calendar year 1997. Over 61 percent of the office time was expended on facilities and planning projects. Over 25 percent of time was expended on Administration and Management services to the various departments. These services include payroll, personnel reviews and budget oversight. Of the Project category the facilities projects comprised the greatest amount of time. Time and Performance - Note on the Chart The data for the chart is generated by a list of projects and or tasks performed by all or some of the staff in the departmenL When compared to annual performance goals the tracking of time allo- cation will provide the department with an indicator of what areas are consuming too many resources and what areas are not properly addressed. 1997 is the first year the Division has employed this evaluation tool. 1997 Community Development Activity Administration/Management--27% Projects/Committee, 51% Direct Services--6% Plan Review Permits~% Enforcement Emergency--l% Educational Outreach--l% Inspections--l% Those projects conducted in 1997 are as follows: · Senior Center: The Community Development Office filed a grant with the help of the Direc- tor of Elder Services in August of 1996. As a result of the grant application in January of 1997 the Town was awarded over $583,000 for additions to the senior center. The construction has proceeded throughout the year and will finish in May of 1997. The project will double the size of the structure focusing on new functions, kitchen and office space. · Public Safety Facility: The Community Development Office assisted in the hiring of aa ar- chitect and managed the project funds to develop feasibility and site selection studies for both the Fire and Police facilities. Currently the departments are reviewing site options for a single building serving the dual purpose of a Fire and Police facility. · Youth Center: The Community Development Office has provided assistance in a similar manner to the public safety facility, by working with the Youth Center Building Committee to hire an architect and managing the project funds. · Osgood Hill Facilities and Plarming Projects: Pending Town Meeting action a matching grant ($85,000 State funds and $95,000 Town) will provide funds for the rehabilitation of the main estate building to prevent further deterioration. An additional $25,000 grant approved by the Massachusetts Development Finance Agency (MDFA), will be used to address the need for clear information as to the options for the Town. Together the opportunities created by the Com- munity Development Office through the MHC and MDFA projects will create opportunities for immediate building stabilization and long range reuse planning. · Town Hall: As part of an overall facilities plan the Community Development Department con- ducted a reuse analysis of Town Hall to determine the costs of expanding into the Fire De- partment space. It is anticipated that the costs will be updated three years from now assuming the Fire Department project moves forward. Planning Projects In 1997 the Community Development Office continued to assist in the progress on several planning projects. These projects represent long range solutions to current and potentially future issues. A sample of the major projects are as follows: Master Plan: The Interim Report presented to Town Meeting in 1997 included: a computer model created by the department to assess the potential residential growth for the community, a community-wide phone survey which gathered opinions on relevant land use topics, the results of neighborhood meetings between Master Plan Committee members and residents in their homes. Work continueson the Master Plan with an expected release of the Goals and Objectives for May 1998. Airport Industrial Development: An authorization, at the May 1997 Town Meeting, for a Home Rule petition to proceed with an agreement to develop 52 acres of the Lawrence Airport (located in North Andover) moved the project closer to a reality. Since May 1997 a Lawrence election has slowed the progress somewhat, however the project aided by the Mass. Development Fi- nance Agency and the Lawrence Economic Development Office continues to show progress. Foster Farm: Beginning in 1997 the Community Development Office assisted the School Building Committee in site selection toward the selection of Foster Farm. Community Devel- opment, through the Open Space Committee and Conservation Department, will continue into 1998 the important progress on the acquisition and planning of the site for open space, recre- ation and a school. Management Issues In prior years the Community Development Division has faced a turnover in the director posi- tion. As a result, management and facility issues required attention. The primary issue has been a sick building problem that plagued the Building, Planning, Health and Conservation Departments. This issue lasted for over two years without a definitive solution. The continued impact of the site on the health of the employees forced a move from the building in May of 1997. This consumed a considerable amount of time in the organization of the moving. This issue of inadequate office space continues to plague the Community Development Division as the resulting temporary move has fractured the operational efficiency of the Division. The Division sees facilities as a strong factor in the enhancement and continuation of positive services to the community. An additional management project on the Community Development side has been the devel- opment of policies that formulate the basis for across the board uniformity on decision making. In 1997 the Community Development Division instituted a policy to deny projects where the plans are not substantially complete. This policy has benefited the review process by reducing the time necessary to review incomplete filings and has encouraged greater attention to detail by the development community. 1 cjg8 Projects The Community Development Office will continue to proceed with providing staff assistance in the progress of the facilities projects. The office will begin the implementation stages of the Master Plan with the goal of delivering the Action Plan to the Fall 1998 Town Meeting. The Com- munity Development Office will continue to improve services through efforts such as assisting the Health Depmiment in privatizing the septic inspections to provide more resources for a greater response capability. In 1998, Community Development see the opportunity to continue to focus on current issues while providing resources to deliver long range solutions. Report of the Animal Inspector During the past year, I have inspected the animals and stabling conditions on the two remain- ing dairy farms. I also visited the five large horse farms in North Andover to inspect the animals and general conditions. Twelve calls were made to inspect backyard horses, sheep, goats and chickens. Health certificates were issued to the aforementioned farms and premises. Ten dogs and cats were quarantined as rabies suspects. One sample of brain tissues was submitted to the rabies lab for florescent antibody analysis. The sample was negative. The Rabies Clinic, which is held every year at the Old Center Fire Station on the second Sat- urday in May from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., resulted in 47 dogs and cats being vaccinated. Respectfully submitted, ROBERt E. ATWOOD, D.M. Report of the Building Department The following comparison table indicates construction activity remained at a steady pace for Fiscal Year 1997. The permitting process and inspectional services have remained on schedule. We wish to thank those Town Departments that cooperated in the proper enforcement of pub- lic safety and zoning by-laws. Respectfully submitted, D. RoBmr NICETrA, BtrmDma Coumss~o~a & Zonma EnvoRce~va, rr OrtaCER KEIqI~TIt SURE'tm, [AX:AL INSPEC'rOR Ja3ms L. Dtozza, P[tn~tr~o & G^s ~srrcroR Jtu~ms D~Cot~, Euvxrrmcn~ I~srecroR Jenmam5 NcEvo¥, SecR~r~a~¥ Permits Issued FYg? New Dwelling, 1 & 2 family 139 Residential Additions & Alterations 211 New Commercial & Industrial Buildings 10 Commercial & Industrial Additions & Alterations 76 Dormitories & Educational Buildings 4 Re-roofing & Vinyl Siding 138 Pools 16 Garage & Sheds 14 Miscellaneous (Signs & Demolition, 75 Chimney, Stoves) Plumbing Permits 505 Gas Permits 431 Electrical Permits 808 FY96 164 150 4 67 2 130 39 45 87 459 392 735 Report of the Conservation Commission Introduction The Conservation Commission is comprised of seven (7) volunteer members who are appointed by the Board of Selectmen for three (3) year terms. The Conservation Department is staffed by an Administrator, a Conservation Associate, and a Clerk to provide information and assistance to residents regarding the Town's natural resources. The Conservation Commission administers the Massachusetts Wetland Protection Act (M.G.L. C. 13 I, S.40) and the North Andover Wetland ByLaw and Regulations (C. 178 of the Code of North Andover). These state and local regulations help protect valuable natural resources including North Andover's lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes, swamps, lands subject to flooding and vegetated fresh- water wetlands. These wetland resource areas are known to play an important role in the follow- ing public health and safet~ interests: 1. Protection of pubYx¢ and private water supplies; 2. Protection of Ground Water Supply; 3. Flood Control; 4. Storm Damage Prevenfon; 5. Prevention of Polluron; 6. Protection of Fisheries; 7. Protection of Wildlife & Wildlife Habitat; 8. Recreation; 9. Sedimentation and Erosion Control. Any construction (permanent structure, addition, deck, roadway, pool, driveway etc.) or al- teration of land within 100 feet of any wetland resource area in North Andover requires public r~view and a permit from the Conservation Commission. In November of 1997, the Massachusetts Legislature revised the Wetland Protection Act and incorporated a new wetland resource area into the definitions section. The "Rivers Bill" restricts development within 200' of both sides of rivers and perennial streams such as Mosquito Brook, Rocky Brook, Boston Brook, Cedar Brook, Fish Brook, the Shawsheen River, the Merrimack River and the many nameless tributaries throughout North Andover. Past Year Overview Time and Performance - Note on the Chart The data for the chart is generated by a list of projects and or tasks performed by all or some of the staff in the department. When compared to annual performance goals the tracking of time allo- cation will provide the department with an indicator of what areas are consuming too many resources and what areas are not properly addressed. 1997 is the first year the Division has employed this evaluation tool. 1997 Conservation Department Activity Enforcement Emergency--18% Administration Manage.--9% Plan Review--57% Projects Comm. Support--8% Inspections Site Visits--6% Educational Outreach--l% Direct Services--l% The Conservation Commission and professional staff are required to examine the impact any proposed activity would have on the previously mentioned interests. Meetings are held twice a month for the purpose of reviewing projects and holding public hearings. In calendar year 1997, the Conservation Commission: held twenty four (24) public hearings, issued forty two (42) De- terminations of Applicability (positive and/or negative combined) and fifty-seven (57) Orders of Condition. As indicated on the chart to the left, Department staff spent greater than 50% of their time on permit review alone. A tremendous time commitment. In addition to their regulatory responsi- bilities under the Act and local ByLaw, the Conservation Commission completed the following projects: Worked in conjunction with the Board of Health, Division of Public Works and Planning De- partment as a participating member of weekly Watershed Council meetings to address Lake Cochichewick Watershed Protection issues. 2. Acqnired $8,000 in grant funds to create a land use management plan for Town Farm & Forest. 3. In conjunction with the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission, an "11 x 17" laminated trail map for Town Farm was creaXed. 4. Re-installed "beaver pipes" and, in conjunction with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife, Depm tment of Public Works and local citizen groups, continued to monitor exist- ing beaver ponds and mitigate wildlife impacts. 5. Continued to provide opportunities for Eagle Scouts to complete their required public service projects including the construction of a boardwalk at Mazurenko Farm. 6. Expanded duties with the North Andover Trails Committee and North Andover Open Space Committee, which are recognized by the Commission as official subcommittees and as key contributors with regards to open space management and land use. On-going implementation of the state approved "Open Space & Recreation Plan". 7. In conjunction with the City of Lawrence and Town of Andover, the Conservation Department received a $230,000 grant from the Massachusetts Highway Department to evaluate the fea- sibility of a "Shawsheen Riverway Trail" linking the three communities. 8. In addition, a $30,000 grant was also awarded to the Conservation Department to evaluate the feasibility of an "out country" rail-trail linking North Andover with the Town of Middleton. 9. Preliminary installation of a Geographic Information System (GIS). ProJects for 1 gg8 The Conservation Department sees the coming year, 1998, as a transition into long range plan- ning and project development. The critical role of inspections, plan review and enforcement will continue to mount as the community faces development in and around land with greater natural resource limitations. The test of the department will be the balancing of the two missions: current review and the continued success on long range environmental planning and protection. Below are examples of projects that fulfill both missions: 1. Regulatory responsibilities including enforcement, site inspections, public guidance, and permit review. 2. Revisions to the North Andover Wetland ByLaw and Regulations. 3. Open Space protection including a finite priority list and the creation of an "Open Space" theme map and a "Chapter 61" theme map. 4. Implementation of the Mazurenko Farm and Town Farm "Land Use Management Plans". 5. Wildlife management programs. 6. Coordinated effort w/the Planning Department and DPW to incorporate a set of construction standards in accordance with the state "Stormwater Mgmt. Policy." 7..Educational outreach program with the Annie L. Sargent School Council. 8. Implementation of the "Shawsheen Riverway" grant with the Town of Andover and the City of Lawrence as well as the "ISTEA Rail-Trail" grant. 9. On-going projects with the North Andover Trails Committee including anticipated trail maps for Osgood Hill and Mazurenko Farm. Report of the Council on Aging The Council on Aging was awarded a grant of $538,000 in FY '97 to expand the Senior Cen- ter. We demonstrated the need for this expansion because of the dramatic increase of services that are offered at the Senior Center, the vast increase of the elder population, and the fact that over 65% of North Andover's senior residents are of middle to low income. The lower level of the Senior Center was closed for programs. However, the staff was always available for Informational and Referral Services and for conferences with seniors and family members who need assistance. During the construction, all Clinical and Mental Health Services along with assistance, social, recreational, and educational programs continued in the commu- nity. Special thanks to the Housing Authority, School Department, Stevens Memorial Library, Edgewood Retirement Community, Inc., Heritage at North Andover, Andover Senior Center, St. Gregory's Church, and the Knights of Columbus for the use of their facilities during the construction. A major effort has been made to raise funds for all the equipment and furnishings for the new. expansion. We are very grateful to the individuals, businesses, and charitable foundations for their generosity and support. Throughout the year, we have maintained a very strong Outreach Program whereby the staff assesses the needs of elders and provides necessary services to improve the quality of their lives thereby enabling them to live independently. We also gratefully appreciate our 255 dedicated volunteers who contributed 27,414 hours of services during the past year. Respectfully submitted, KATHL~EN B. GORMAN DIRECTOR OF ELDER SERVICES Senior Center expansion, opening spring 1998. Services and Programs Informational and Referral Case Management In-Home Services Finding Clients/Outreach Health Screenings-Skin, Eye, Hearing, Foot, Cholesterol Blood Pressure Clinic Pneumonia and Flu Immunization Wellness and Fimess Programs Community Education Home-Delivered Meals Congregate Meals Family Assistance (Non-Elderly) Legal Aid, Fuel Assistance, Tax Assistance, Housing, Repairs SHINE (Medical Assistance), Radon Testing, Senior Tax Relief Program Transportation Newsletter (Quarterly) Social Functions Recreation Drop-In Intergenerational Programs Discount Cards, Homestead Act, Living Will, Health Proxy Forms, Food Shopping Assistance Widows/Widowers Support Group Friendly Visitors Program Telephone Reassurance Program Client Support Units of Service 17,058 1355 2024 1055 550 2776 1002 5116 6870 11,190 6884 200 410 224 16,800 1508 12,028 4200 921 488 894 5568 11,136 5568 Report of the Health Department Introduction The Health Department is the staff arm of the Board of Health. The Board of Health is a three member Board comprised of volunteers appointed by the Town Manager for three-year overlap- ping terms. The Board generally meets on the fourth Thursday of each month to vote on Title V variances, determine policy, rule on matters pertaining to public health when appropriate, and make themselves available to the public. The Health Deparanent consists of the Public Health Admin- istrator/Agent, one full time Inspector, a full time secretary, and a part time Public Health Nurse. In addition, this year the Depathnent has been fortunate to have the assistance of a Senior Aide from Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley. The Board of Health is responsible for protecting the residents of North Andover from the potential health hazards of air and noise pollution, radiation, lead poisoning, communicable dis- eases, improper sewage disposal, solid and hazardous waste disposal, substandard or unsafe hous- ing, water contamination, improper food handling and poor food quality. The Board of Health also ensures compliance with health regulations by inspecting and regulating recreational camps, bath- ing beaches, massage establishments, private wells, public and semi-public swimming pools, and tanning establishments. The Board of Health annually inspects the public schools, and licenses funeral directors. It has the responsibility to require site assignments for solid waste sites and all like trades, approve cemetery sites, control the spread of rodents and insects, track animal bites, inspect and license livestock and stables, examine all nuisances and protect water quality. The Health Department also develops and implements regulations to protect the public health as well as offers a comprehensive network of services to address the issues of tobacco and other drag use, and attempts to educate the public on a variety of health issues. To comply with these varied requirements, the Health Department performs inspections of all food, massage and tanning establishments, septic pumping tracks, swimming pools, bathing beaches, stables and camps, and has developed a strong review program for all new restaurants, septic systems, public swimming pools and spas, and massage establishments. Water sampling to meet swimming requirements is performed at Stevens Pond during the summer months. The Department offers annual flu and tetanus clinics for senior citizens and those at risk as well as Hepatitis immunizations. Activities of the Health Department affect the entire Town and its resi- dents as well as those who work in the Town and those who come into the Town to use its day care centers, eat at its food establishments, patronize its massage facilities and tanning establishments. Persons served: 25,000+ through water quality testing, private wells, siting of septic systems, immunizations, food inspections, etc. Totals reflect those who work in the Town and those who use its services and businesses, The next section is an indicator of the permits and mandated responsibilities of the Board of Health accompanied by the pertinent regulatory code. Time and Performance - Note on the Chart The data for the chart is generated by a list of projects and or tasks performed by all or some of the staff in the department. When compared to annual performance goals the tracking of time allo- cation will provide the department with an indicator of what areas are consuming too many resources and what areas are not properly addressed. 1997 is the first year the Division has employed this evaluation tool. 199;' Health Department Activity -Projects Comm. Support--27% Enforcement Emergency--3% Direct Services--6% Managernent--7% Inspections~26% Plan Review Educational Outreech--17% Dnw, cr S~Rwcm Disease Reporting Deaths/Dang. Dis. Kids Home Home Deaths Immunizations Disease Spread Vaccine Disburse Isolate, TB etc. Report TB Evaluate Immigrant MGLC. Ill, S. 111 & 112 MGLC. IlI, S. 29 MGL C. 71, S. 55A MGLC. 111, S. 109 MGLC. 111, S. 181-183 MGLC. 111, S. 7, S. 92-116 MGLC. 111, S. 5A MGLC, 111. S. 95 MGLC. 111, S. 113 FLPL 87-301 PLA~ l~vn~w/Pgm~rrs Burial Permits Massage Parlors Funeral Directors Site Cemeteries Subdivision Plans Site Haz. Waste Site Landfills Offal Noisome Trades Site Noisome Tr Lic. Camps MGL C. 114, S.45 MGLC. 140, S. 51 MGLC. 114, S. 49 MGLC. 114, S. 34 MGL C. 41, S. 81S-81V MGLC. 111, S. 150B MGLC. 111, S. 150A MGLC. II1, S. 31A MGLC. 111, S. 151 MGLC. 111, $. 143 MGL C. 140, S. 32B & 32C Tanning Special Waste Installers Offal Haulers Food Estabs. Beaches Camps Stables Dumpsters Pools Well Const. Tobacco Sales MGLC. 111, S. 207~214 310 CMR 19.16 310 CMR 15.000 310 CMR 15.000 105 CMR 590.000 105 CMR 445.000 105 CMR 430.000 LOCAL LOCAL 105 CMR 435.000 LOCAL LOCAL Enforce Ch. II Lead Poison Shell-fish Adult. Food Enforce All Ind. Clean Air Condemn Hsg. MGLC. 111, S. 127A& 127B MGLC. Ill, S. 1981 MGL C. 130, S. 81 MGL C. 94, S. 186-95 MGLC. llI, S. 31 MGL C. 270, S. 22 MGLC. 111, S. 127B INSPECTIONS Housing Lead Paint Landfills Food Ests. Camps 105 CMR 410.000 105 CMR 460.000 310 CMR 19.25 105 CMR 590.000 105 CMR 430.000 Past Year Overview As development pressures increase, the Health Department shifts its focus to septic system related work. With over 25% of staff time allotted to this work the department has required to move the focus away from other areas. This has been the norm for several years since the pro- mulgation of the 1995 Title V Regulations and the increase in development in the regions of the community not served by municipal sewer. To manage this growth and provide assistance to the public a septic tracking system was implemented which will be used with the community septic management loan program. The staff also continued a high level of inspections of restaurants, public and semi-public pools, massage and tanning establishments, and tested the water at Stevens Pond in order to protect the public health by enforcing the State Sanitary Code. Approximately 8% percent of staff time was spent on inspections other than septic inspections. Clinics offering immunizations for flu and pneumonia, tetanus and Hepatitis were offered on several occasions during the year, and a regu- lation establishing a "no nits" policy in local schools was adopted by the Board. The site assignment for the TBI trash/recycling facility consumed over 2% of staff time since there were nine lengthy hearings, with the end result that the Board of Health denied the site as- signment. The office continued to respond to a high number of citizen inquiries despite the fact that actual staffing levels were down due to illness. 1998 ProJects This year the Health Department intends to hire an outside consultant to provide much of the septic system work, thereby freeing a large block of staff time to expand services in other areas. Fees for the services will provide payment for the consultant which will afford greater flexibility to address a fluctuating development generated demand. The additional time will be used to: manage the loan part of the septic management loan program; offer a household hazardous waste collection event; promulgate regulations on body art; update the massage and private well regu- lations; offer select educational forums, and create several educational brochures on a variety of issues. Becoming proactive in the areas of health education is a critical objective to the Depart- ment and Board. With the possibility of additional funding for the Public Health Nurse, the Department intends to offer periodic blood pressure clinics, initiate monthly TB screening clinics, offer periodic child- hood lead screening clinics, and perform a community health needs assessment. It is expected that there will be additional public health concerns because of the proposed Wheelabrator retrofit that will involve Health Department staff in the review of the Planning Board applications. Report of the Historical Commission The North Andover Historical Commission completed the 350th Anniversary Celebration with a feeling of pride that the Town's celebrations had brought remembrance of our rich heritage. A year of celebration sparked renewed interest in the rich history of the Town as new visitors came to visit our community. The "Cochichewick Chronicles" have been actively completing the eighth and last edition. The editors have worked dilligently to provide a rich focus on different North Andover stories. The restoration of the First Burying Ground on Academy Road is continuing its preservation efforts. The North Andover Council on the Arts has given a Grant to the commission to publish three historic tour brochures. These pamphlets will include walking tours and other historic programs. The Historical Society generally meets the second Monday of evew month at 4:00 PM at the Historical Society on Academy Road. All are cordially invited to the meetings. Membership to the society is welcomed as members can participate in so many interesting projects. Please con- tact the Historical Society for more information. The Historical Commission is grateful to Carol Mahajad of the Historical Soceity for her par- ticipation and assistance throughout the year as an ex-officio member of the Commission. Respectfully submitted, KATHLEEN SZYSKA, PRESIDENT ANNE ERICSON, SECRETARY PAT LONG, TREASURER B~a~s^~ SOMERS Report of the Planning Department Introduction The Planning Department consists of one Planner, one secretary and a six member volunteer Planning Board. The Board meets regularly on the first and third Tuesday of every month and conducts Saturday morning site visits. The Department reviews, endorses, and files with the Town Clerk all Approval Not Required Plans M.G.L. Ch. 41 Sec. 81-L and 81-P. The Department re- views all preliminary and definitive subdivision plans as required by M.G.L. Ch. 41 Sec. 81 - K to 81 - GG and the North Andover Subdivision Rules and Regulations. The Department also reviews the following special permits as authorized by M.G.L. Ch.40A and the North Andover Zoning Bylaw: · Section · Section · Section · Section · Section · Section · Section · Section · Section · Section 2.30.1 Driveway, 4.125 R-6 Zone, 4.136 Watershed Protection District, 7.2.1 Access, 7.2.2 Frontage Exception, Section 8.3 Site Plan Review, 8.5 Planned Residential Developments, 11 Planned Development District, 12 Large Estates Condominium Conversion, 13 Continuing Care Retirement Center, 14 Independent Elderly Housing. The Planning Department also reviews the Development Schedules for all subdivisions un- der Section 8.7 Growth Management. As indicated by the below chart the Planning Office dedicates the majority of the time to Plan Review. However, equally as important is the work associated with committee support, such as Master Plan. Because the private sector dictates the demands on the Planning Office through application filings, the ability to concentrate on planning and project review at any given time is dependent on plan review demands. Knowing that the Master Plan is of paramount importance, a result of the demands of the Master Plan, the Inspections category has suffered for lack of time. Under M.G.L. Ch. 41, See. 81 -Q The Planning Board is responsible for periodically updat- ing the North AndoverSubdivision Rules and Regulations, other regulations of the Board and the Zoning Bylaw. This involves research of other town bylaws and regulations, review of publica- tions, assimilating gathered information into the drafting of new bylaws and regulations suited to the needs of North Andover. All new regulations require a public heating with a legal notice placed in the local newspaper. All new zoning bylaws require a public hearing with a legal notice placed in the local newspaper as well as a presentation and vote at Town Meeting. A significant amount of time and effort is spent each year on behalf of the Planning Staff to keep the bylaws and regu- lations up to date. Under M.G.L. Ch. 41, Sec. 81-D, the Planning Board is charged with creating and periodi- cally updating a master plan for the Town. The Planning Department is involved with the Master Plan Committee by meeting on the second and fourth Thursday of every month, coordinating the minutes, reviewing sections of the plan as prepared by both staff and consultants, meeting regu- larly with the consultants, reviewing proposed zoning bylaw changes and rezoning, and by keep- ing the Planning Board involved in the decisions made by the Committee as to the direction of the Town. The Planning Department is often asked to render an opinion on many different projects that are not directly related to the permit process. For example, the Planning Department has been working closely with the School Committee to find an appropriate location for a new elementary school. The Department has also assisted the City of Lawrence in the review of the airport prop- erty for potential industrial development. The Planning Department is also involved in many regional organizations such as the Cham- ber of Commerce, the H.O.M.E. Consortium, the Merrimack Valley Regional Planning Commis- sion and the Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority. Involvement in these organizations is required in order to receive certain services and grants. Past Year Overview The Planning Department reviewed fourteen (14) site plan review applications including the 77,084 SF Stop & Shop, 19,295 SF addition to United Plastics, 23,500 SF Sal's Pizza, and the 75,000 SF dorm at Merrimack College. The Planning Department also reviewed thirteen (13) definitive subdivisions for a total of 156 lots. These subdivisions varied in size from the two (2) lot Old Center Lane on Johnson Street to the ninety-two (92) lot Forest View Estates on Rt. 114. Of the 156 proposed lots, 36 were approved. The Planning Department has been working on updating the Subdivision Rules and Regula- tions, and updated the Fee Regulations. The department functioned on a reduced staff level during the months of May until August of 1997. In an effort to continue services of the Planning Department the Community Development Director assumed the Planner position. In the absence of additional part time staff the Commu- nity Development Director reviewed plans and provided staff to the Planning Board within the time constraints of performing two positions. Time and Performance - Note on the Chart The data for the chart is generated by a list of projects and or tasks performed by all or some of the staff in the department. When compared to annual performance goals the tracking of time allo- cation will provide the deparlment with an indicator of what areas are consuming too many resources and what areas are not properly addressed. 1997 is the first year the Division has employed this evaluation tool. 1997 Planning Department Activity Project Committee Support--31% Direct Services--19% Plan Review--37% Administration/Management-- 6% infomement Emergency--4% nspection Site Visits---2% Educational Outreach--l% Type of application # of permits reviewed # lots/square footage Watershed Special Permit Site Plan Review Frontage Exception Lots Site Plan Review Waiver Preliminary Subdivision Definitive Subdivision 9 16 lots 14 298,080 SF 1 NA 2 NA 1 3 lots 1 159 lots 1998 ProJects The upcoming year can be considered as the year of implementation. The Planning Depart- ment will continue to work toward improving the review process through the implementation of more defined subdivision regulations. These efforts will be supplemented by the results of the Master Plan which will guide the department toward the creation of new zoning amendments in the Fall of 1998, In 1998 the Planning Department will also work with the Department of Public Works toward developing a clear set of standard construction guidelines that can be implemented as the stan- dard by developers and through all departments in the Town. The tree test of the ability of the Planning Office to move toward implementation of Master Plan goals and other projects will be the number of proposals which may require review in the coming year. Because time is divided between long range planning and short range review, the increase in review requests limits the long range planning effectiveness by shifting the focus to plan review. There is a strong need to increase the department's ability to conduct short range review and increase a long range planning effort. North Andover Historical Society, Academy Road. Report of the Recreation Department In 1997, the Recreation Department celebrated its 51st year of organizing activities for the citizens of the Town of North Andover. We again operated our eight-week program at the Chadwick Playground, the Drummond Playground, the Carl Thomas Playground, and the payground at the Middle School. The programs were held Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Programs during the year included: · Ice Skating: This programs runs from November to March every Sunday evening for two hours from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. It is held at Brooks School Rink. This successful program is en- joyed by all those that spend time at the rink. · Band Concerts: Young and old alike anxiously look forward to our band concerts each year. Having expanded to be held on Sunday and Wednesday evenings has seen its popularity grow. Our Sunday concerts included groups such as Four Guys in Tuxes, Country Western perform- ers, the New Liberty Jazz Band, Yankee Strummers Banjo Band, Brian Kingsley in Concert, the Oberlaedler Hoffbrau Band, Chicks Dance Band and a Russ McQueen "Sing-A-Long". Wednesday Concerts included Sweet Hot and Sassy, the Lucent Swing Band, Black Derby Band, and Brian Kingsley and Russ Mcqueen. · Saturday Morning Basketball: This program for boys and girls is held at the Annie L. Sargent School for grades 2, 3, and 4. This popular program is directed by William Mccarthy. · Summer Playground Programs: It wouldn't be summer without programs every Wednesday at the Old Center Common. Thursday field trips included Go Carts in Methuen, York Beach excursion, Cinderella, Water Country, a Boston Harbor Boat Ride, a trip to Pawtucket for the Red Sox farm team, and the always exciting Canobie Lake Park. Special Events included Dan Grady Puppeteer, Mr. Slim, Judy Pancourt Music, Peter Vuono's Escape Thrills, Jimbo Z the Clown and the mystery of B.J. Hickman's Magic. A Special Needs Playgound Program at Drummond Park is under the direction of Becky Mor- gan and as always is well attended. Respectfully submitted, WILLIAM P. McEvoY, CHAmMAN Bm~ FInN WILLIAM B LACKSTOCK JAY McDo~nto Wzt~l^M BotrrmLt£R WI~L~a~ McC~x~ Jos~H W~SH JO^NN~ L£~ Report of the Stevens Memorial Library To the Citizens of North Andover, Massachusetts: The Trustees of the Stevens Memorial Library herewith present their 89th report, which is for the eighteen (18) month period July 1, 1996 through December 31, 1997. To the Trustees of Stevens Memorial Library: I hereby submit the 89th report of the Director: Library usage is increasing steadily. Almost 30% more people used the library in FY97 than in FY 96. Circulation of library materials increased by over 18% (almost 30,000 items) during the same time period. Inter-library loans increased by 40% and the number of reference questions answered almost doubled. By looking at the following figures it is easy to see that the trend toward increased library usage will continue. Library Statistics FY 1997 FY 1998 Total (1/2 year) Acquisitions 3268 1560 4828 Circulation 173,776 89,825 263,601 Reserves 659 376 1035 Museum Passes 800 396 I 196 ILL's sent 2360 1216 3576 ILL's received 2537 1179 3716 Reference Questions 17,481 10,917 28,398 Programs 242 139 381 Program Attendance 4023 3193 7216 Library Usage 140,102 74,558 214,660 Meeting Rooms Usage 520 292 812 In July of 1996 two long time staff members, Klm Bears (Children's Librarian) and Eleanor Sathan (Reference librarian), left to pursue challenging new jobs. Audrey Alenson replaced Eleanor in the reference room while Susan Babb took over as Head of Youth Services in November 1996. Various other staff changes occured in the past 18 months resulting in a number of new faces throughout the library. We are grateful to the townspeople of North Andover for their support in allowing us to re- mm to our pre-1991 operating hours (67 hours per week) and in providing us with the ability to add three new positions to aid us in responding to demands for more services and materials. As a result of the needs for more materials we were able to give some help to our Assistant Director, Barbara Philbrick, in the processing of those materials. Increased usage of technology, equipment, CDRoms, etc. made it vital to create the position of Technology Librarian. This was filled by Yunan Guo in September 1997. And not only does she keep the equipment up and running she has been offering training on our automated catalog and CDRom workstations. Future workshops are be- ing planned on the use of our Internet workstation which was added in March 1997. Current pro- gramming and activities will be expanded now that we have hired our very first Community Services/Outreach Librarian. Debbie Papalia joined our staff in this capacity in November. Watch for our newsletters, special programs and book displays. In November we celebrated the library's 90th anniverary with a one-man performance of Mark Twain by local resident George Frein. It was a truly remarkable event! We'd like to thank the public for their generous support during those 90 years. You have made it possible for us to have a wonderful, dynamic and service -oriented staff who have my gratitude for their efforts on behalf of the community. My thanks also go to our volunteers, Friends and Trustees for their help and support as well. Our Landscaping committee, comprised of volunteers, Friends, Trustees, staff and our terrific custodian, Bill Ford, has been instrumental in helping to maintain our grounds. I'd like to thank them and the scouts who planted bulbs in October. We look forward to seeing the results of their labor as those flowers bloom in the spring. We also look forward to seeing all of you at the library. Respectfully submitted, SIJE ELLEN HOLMES, DIRECTOR Report of the Stevens Memorial Library Trustees The Trustees of Stevens Memorial Library would like to give a special thank you to Joarme Stevens who resigned from the Board in September. She will be remembered for her 13 years of dedicated service to the library, especially for her years as Chair when the expansion and renova- tion of the new building were completed. Thank you Joanne. A new trustee, Peter Lafond was welcomed to the Board in November. And as always, the Board of Trustees continues m oversee the management of those funds entrusted to them and to set those policies under which the library operates. Our thanks to our wonderful, energetic staff who make it all work. Respectfully submitted, MARTHA SALISBURY, CHAIR ARTHUR LARSON, TREASURER WILLIAM HICKEY, SECRETARY WmLIAM B. Dur~Y, JR. E. WILLIAM HANSEN PETER LAFOND MARY ELLEN OSGOOD Endowment Fund Income Account Activity - 7/1/96 to 6/30/97 Reported Endowment Fund Income Balance - 7/1/96 Disbursements 6/28/96 Endowment Fund Income Balance - 7/1/96 Receipts From Endowment Fund $20,000.00 From Phillips Fund $461.61 Contribution Betsy Williams $100.00 Total Receipts $20,561.61 $1,124.30 ($185.65) $948.45 $20,561.61 Expenditures Books & Periodicals - net Building Maintenance Furniture & Equipment Programs Miscellaneous Bank Service Charge Total Expenditures Ending Balance - 6/30/97 $11,407.76 $1,022.00 $0.00 $1,772.50 $2,195.03 $98.61 $16,495.90 ($16,495.90) $5,014.16 Endowment Fund Income Account Expenditures Budget vs. Actual - 7/1/~ to 6/30/97 Budget Actual Variance Books & Periodicals - net Building Maintenance Furniture & Equipment Programs Miscellaneous Service Charges $10,250.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $1,750.00 $11,407.76 $1,022.00 $o.oo $1,772.50 $2,195.03 $98.61 ($I,157.76) ($22.00) $1,000.00 ($772.50) ($445.03) ($98.61) Total expenditures $15,000.00 $16,495.90 ($1,495.90) Copier Fund Account Activity - 7/I/96 to 6/30/97 Reported Copier Fund Balance - 7/1/96 Adjustments with Special Gifts Account Copier Fund Balance - 7/1/96 Total receipts Expenditures Total expenditures Ending Balance - 6/30/97 $6,950.45 $4,162.65 $499.41 ($1,692.63) ($1,193.22) $6,95O.45 ($4,162.65) $1,594.58 Merrill Lynch Portfolio Valuation Value as of June 30, 1997 Fund Historical Value $348,413.79 Present Value Charles Whitney Davis Fund Phillips Fund Berrian Fund Elizabeth P. Stevens Fund Nathaniei/Elizabeth P. Stevens Fund Dale Stevens Fund Anne Bradstreet Fund M.T. Stevens, Abbot Stevens, Mary O. Tyler & Reynolds Fund $10,000.00 2,550.00 1,000.00 10,000.00 25,000.00 13,500.00 1,500.00 61,682.81 $125,232.81 $19,683,00 6,574.75 3,287.37 26,298.98 59,172.70 32,873.72 3,287.37 197,242.34 $348,413.79 Special Gifts Fund Account Activity - 7/1/g6 to 6/30/g? Special Gifts Fund Balance before adjustments - 7/1/96 Adjustments with Copier Account Special Gifts Fund Balance - 7/1/96 Receipts Contributions Lost Books Computer Printouts Interest $3,239.32 $1,259.92 $705.3O $88.94 Total receipts $5,293.48 Expenditures Building Program - landscaping Programs Bank Service Charges Advance to READCOM $1,368.00 $175.00 $182.03 $66.98 Total expenditures $1,792.01 Ending Balance - 6/30/97 $1,964.92 $1,692.73 $3,657.65 $5,293.48 ($1,792.01) $7,159.12 Special Gifts Fund Detail - 7/1/96 to 6/30/97 Beginning Balance - 7/1/96 Net Activity 7/1/96 to 6/30/97 Ending Balance - 6/30/97 Sped~ Gifts $17,957.62 $3,568.95 $21,526.57 Advance to READCOM ($14,299.97) ($66.98) ($14,366.95) $3,657.65 $3,501.97 $7,159.62 Report of the Veterans' Services Department In 1946, Chapter 115 of the Massachusetts General Laws was passed by the General Court, creating a Massachusetts Veteran's Services Department and calling for the establishment in ev- ery city, town or district, a Depa~haent of Veteran's Services. In 1947, the Selectmen of the Towns of North Andover and Boxford voted to form a district and appointed a District Director of Veteran's Services to carry out the provisions of Chapter 115. This year marks the 51st Anniver- sary of the Veteran's Services Depa~huent. The general purpose of the District Director of Veteran's Services is the Administration of the Veteran's Benefits Program to provide the utmost possible assistance to Veterans and/or their dependents in time of distress or hardship. Listed below are services provided by the State of Massachusetts for Veterans, widows of Veterans, and their dependent children through this office: · Financial Assistance · Medical Services · Educational Benefits · Death Benefits · Motor Vehicle Plates--Veteran, P.O.W., Pearl Harbor · Property Tax Exemption · Veterall'S Bollus · Civil Service Employment · Housing Programs Listed below are services provided by the Federal V.A. Administration of Veterans, widows of Veterans, and their dependent children through this office: · Obtaining and Maintaining Copies of Discharges · Information on V.A. Home Loans · Insurance Programs · Applications for Services at V.A. Hospitals and Clinics · Applications for Widows' Pensions All of these programs are subject to eligibility according to state and federal guidelines. This Office also provides updated information of current events sponsored by local Veteran's organi- zations, namely V.F.W. Post 2104 and the American Legion Post 219. Congratulations and thank you to the men and women of North Andover who served their country and continue to serve their community. Over 2,000 flags were placed at the graveside of veterans at all the cemeteries in the Town on Memorial Day in remembrance of those who served their country. The Veteran's Department has the following office hours: Town of North Andover - Monday-Friday 8:30 A.M.--4:00 V.M. Town of Boxford - Telephone: (508) 88%8181 Respectfully submitted, RaCUAP. D E. LAI-Inv~ D~ST~aCT Dm~cros OF V~X~.An'S S~wc~s Report of the Youth Services Department The Youth Services Department, trader the direction of Rick Gorman, continued to provide a superior quality of services and a full complement of programs consisting of support groups, court- related programming, student-ton programs, family and individual services as well as a host of social and recreational activities. This past fiscal year Youth Services was staffed by a full-time director, a full-time youth worker and a part-time worker paid for out of grant and fundraising moneys~ During FY97 Youth Services applied and received $6,000 in grant money from the Greater Lawrence Community Foundation and Health Protections grant. The Youth Services Carnival also raised $11,500. Our volunteer staff consisted of college interns, student office aides, program leaders and co- ordinators, fund misers and parent chaperones. Without this kind of volunteerism and support, Youth Services could not give the quality of service and much needed programs to the youth and families of this community. The Joseph N. Hermann Youth Center Inc. Committee continues to work hard to make the Youth Center a reality. May 1997 saw the town appropriate 975,000 to the cause and the committee has already raised an additional 300,000 toward its goal of 1.8 million. Support Services 1. High School Groups: Weekly groups at the high school, groups last one semester and work on a number of personal growth issues. 2. Parent Awareness Group: Ongoing parenting co-led by a therapist and youth advocate. 3. Short-term Groups: Includes victims of sexual abuse and substance abuse. 4. Girl's Group: Weekly support group for middle school age girls. 5. R.I.S.K. Program: Mentoring Programs for youths in grades 3-6. 6. Holiday Giving Program: Youth Services provides/sponsors food, gift and clothing drive at both Thanksgiving and Christmas. 7. 24-Hour Emergency Services: N.A.Y.S. is a 24 hour beeper service. 8. Information and Referral: N.A.Y.S. provides information and referral services for many youth related issues. 9. Youth Services/School System: Youth Services employees work 15-20 hours per week in the school system. Adventure Programs 1. Ropes Course: Youth Services owns one of the finest ropes course in the Northeast. Commu- nity groups utilize course for team building purposes. 2. R.E.A.C.H. Camp: Two week adventure camp for middle school age students. 3. Outdoor Challenge: After school program for middle school age students. 4. Rock Climbing: Periodically offers indoor and outdoor rock climbing classes. 5. Mountain Biking: Periodically offers six weeks mountain biking program. 6. Snowbound: Winter vacation program for middle school students. 7. Aviation Program: Aviation education and flight school program offered at Lawrence Airport. 8. Wilderness Connections: 6th grade wilderness orientation program. 9. Boating Program: Summer program that exposes youth to kayaking, canoeing and sailing. 10. Avalanche: Snowboarding program for high school students. Social/Recreational 1. Teenco: A youth program that runs social and educational activities for 650 middle school students. 2. Summer Baskethall Leagues: Geared loward middle school, high school and past high school age youth--services over 500 youths 3. Youth Lacrosse: Townwide program geared toward late elementary through middle school age youth over 100 youths are involved. 4. Flag Football: From September-December a flag football league is offered to high school youth. 5. Open Gym: Periodically throughout the year, the high school fieldhouse is open for basket- ball and weightlifting. 6. Jr. Youth Center Committee: Meets monthly to assist Joseph N. Hermann Youth Center Inc. 7. NBA (No Boys Allowed): Elementary age girls sports program. 8. Summer Fun: Structured playground program mn at Atldnson School for elementary aged youth. 9. Special Events: Youth Services provides numerous special events such as Town Carnival, Bas- ketball Tourneys and concerts. Court Related Programs Community Service Program: A Program for first time offenders from North Andover. Lawrence District Court diverts first time offenders for community service hours. Youths are sent to this program for four to six months. Student Run Programs 1. Youth Council: Members from grade nine through twelve meet weekly to discuss youth is- sues and concerns. The Council is action oriented and is made up of a wide array of individuals. 2. TA.C.K.L.E.: A collaboration between Youth Services and DARE to recruit tomorrow's lead- ers. High School age program. 3. Peer Mediation: Middle school program that works on conflict resolution through peer mediation. 4. Adventure Leaders: Program for middle school and high school age students who are inter- ested in adventure based programming. 5. Interact: Combination service and social club for young people ages 14-18 collaborates with Rotary Club. 6. TEENCO Dance Committee: 8th grade students who plan and run TEENCO dances. Other Services 1. Job Bank: Monthly listings of available employment aimed at ages 15-19. 2. School Attendance Officer: Director also assumes the role of Attendance Officer. 3. Consultation Services: Youth Services consults with neighboring communities on how to start an agency. 4. Middle School After Hours: Youth Services run a number of after school programs in con- junction with the "After Hours" program. Respectfully submitted, N.A.Y.S. Board of Directors D^xan Rx~qo, WmL~ Buck: BmmD^ CLAm,: VINCENT VALENT1NO PE~R Bm~E~ TRACY CASTIGLIONE~ EX OFFICIO PETER COCO JOYCE BR.~OSP, AW JOHN MARKUNS, EX OFFICIO 0 Report of the Emergency Management Agency During this last reporting period our area was plagued with several winter northeast storms and some very heavy coastal flooding including the Shawsheen and Merrimack rivers. On April 1, 1997 Governor Weld declared a State of Emergency due to a heavy snow and freezing ice storm which took down many trees, power lines and blocked main highways. The Emergency declara- tion asked that highway travel be restricted to emergency or essential traffic only, allowing plows, ambulances, public safety and power companies to carry out their duties. When major highways were open for travel they still remained restricted and dangerous due to downed trees and power lines. Power was out to approximately 500,000 homes in Massachusetts with extra line crews arriving from Quebec, Ontario and Pennsylvania to assist local crews in power restoration. The No. Andover Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated throughout these emergencies and communications maintained at local and State levels with Headquarters at MEMA. The Merrimack Valley Red Cross made themselves available to provide heated shelter, which hap- pily was not required. In September 1997 we supported the Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley "walk for Elders and families" with approximately 1500 persons participating in the walk. Emer- gency Management Radio Volunteers provided support as well as the Police, Fire, Auxiliary Po- lice and public works departments. All in all a great collective effort on the part of all the participants and volunteers. During this period we have participated in several exercises of our communications system with MEMA. The $4,830 Grant that was received by Emergency Management will assist in the formation of a Regional Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC). Members of this committee will be the municipalities of North Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, Andover, Haverhill and Middleton. This alliance, brought about by Fire Chief Dolan, who serves as the LEPC Chairman and the Emer- gency Management Staff will be of great benefit to our town. This union will provide a broader spectrum of information, training and resources to our community as well as the aforementioned communities in this rapidly expanding segment of Emergency Management. We continue to attend monthly Emergency Management Director's meetings at MEMA Area I headquarters and LEPC meetings. We continue to exercise our communications equipment on a weekly basis. We maintain our eligibility to receive federal matching funds for 50% of our Emergency Management salaries and all administrative expenses under FEMA. Our new repeater is experiencing ~terference from some local radio source. To date, we have been unable to locate the origin of this interfering signal which drastically hampers our commu- nications capability. If we cannot resolve this interference problem we will have to apply to the RACES Frequency Coordinator for a frequency change to maintain an uninterrupted 24 hour communications capability. If the interference originates from our present location we may have to move the repeater to another location. Thanks to the generosity of Mr. Benjamin Farnum our repeater has been located on Boston Hill for a number of years allowing us to access it on a 24 hour daily basis. The RACES personnel continue to exercise our communications equipment weekly to enhance our readiness posture. Annually the RACES communicators under communications Officer Joseph Sullivan Jr., and the Auxiliary Police personnel under Sgt. Richard Boettcher and the other Emergency Manage- ment volunteers contribute thousands of hours of voluntary service to the town. We urge teachers and students to utilize our expertise regarding earthquakes and natural di- sasters as required for school projects. We can be made available to provide guidance or litera- ture to assist in your school projects. We are always on the lookout for volunteers to serve as Emergency Management Staff Offic- ers, communications personnel (amateur radio license must be held), and Auxiliary Police (must be 21 years of age and pass a background investigation conducted by our local police department). All town residents are eligible regardless of race, sex, or creed. The undersigned may be contacted by interested parties. Our thanks to the Town Manager, all members of our town boards and departments for their support of our efforts. The Police, Fire, and Highway departments, communications dispatchers and all their members are always available to support us during emergencies as well as for the various MEMA exercises. My thanks to Deputy Director Jeffrey Coco and the Emergency Man- agement Staff, Mr. Joseph Sullivan and his RACES Communicators, Sgt. Richard Boettcher and all the Auxiliary Police for their continuing voluntary services to the community. I'm extremely grateful for your continuing support. Respectfully Submitted, JOHN J. Coco DIRECTOR, EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Johnson Street fire station. Report of the Fire Department Mission Statement The Noah Andover Fire Department is an organization dedicated to the protection and pres- ervation of life and property through aggressive fire suppression, fire prevention, emergency medical services, public education, hazardous materials control and containment, the mitigation of other disasters, natural and manmade, and to be of assistance to the public. FY 98 Budget Information Responses January 1, 1997 to December 31, 1997 Fire & Rescue--1583 Ambulance--1947 Fire inspections 1997 Smoke detector--566 Oil burner .43 Sprinkler--73 Blasting--8 Underground tanks--10 LP gas--8 Special Suppression--1 Victcualers... 65 Quarterly & Annual--50 On site meetings--27 Total inspections--851 Revenue Prevention Permits--S25,948.00 Ambulance service--$316,386.93 Fire alarm service fees--$13,600.00 1997 in Review · The department has received its second year of Student Awareness for Fire Education (SAFE) grant funding which provides for tim safety training in the schools. Our primary tool for this instruction has been the fire safety trailer which was donated by local industries. · As part of our responsibility for compliance with federal regulations regarding confined space rescue, department members have received training through the cooperation of Lucent Tech- nologies and equipment donated from MRI. · The Lawrence Regional Vocational Technical High School through their on site programs have painted both stations. The only cost to the department was for materials. · The department is completing its first year of using the public safety software system for dally record keeping. · The department started a new program which provides for non-emergency transports for resi- dents requiring this service. Two new firefighter/EMT's were hired to staff the reserve ambu- lance during the weekday hours at Station 2. In addition to providing this service these per- sonnel also allow the department to have a second ambulance available for emergency calls. With the addition of these personnel the department has regained two of the five firefighter positions lost in fiscal year 1991. · The Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) has received three local grants from the Com- monwealth of Massachusetts, which will improve planning, awareness and response for chemi- cals in the community. · North Andover is working with the surrounding communities to establish a Regional LEPC. This group will include Andover, Haverhill, Lawrence, Methuen, and Middleton. · Maureen Hart, one of our LEPC citizen members was successful in obtaining a grant to es~ tablish a web site which will provide the public with information on sites in the regional LEPC area which have reported pertroleum spills. It is planned to provide information on other types of chemical releases in the future. Access to the information will be available at the local li- braries either on the web site or in a hard copy version · We are currently updating our emergency plans with specific information on sites which must report chemical information, response routes, community resources and vulnerable assets in each of the six communities. · The Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) has been a beneficial resource to our community in our ability to serve those persons who have been victims or witnesses to a traumatic event. · The District 6 Regional Hazardous Materials Respnse Team continues to be a valuable resource to the department in providing technical support during chemical releases. In August they re- sponded and provided support for a vapor release from collected refuse in one of the Towns refuse trucks where two town employees were overcome by fumes. Personnel · On July 2, 1997, Lt. Kenneth Long died having served the department for forty-one years the last seven as Fire Prevention Officer. · Firefighter Blake Adams retired from the department on January 1, 1997 after serving on the fire department since 1970 and as a Town employee since 1965. · William McCarthy was promoted to Lieutenant to replace the vacancy created by the death of Lt. Long. · New firefighters John McClellan and Jack Risacher were hired to. replace Blake Adams and Peter Dugan who retired at the end of December 1996 · New firefighters Steven Risacher and John Pramas were hired to staff the second ambulance during the weekday hours. Respectfully submitted, WILLIAM V. DOLAN FIRE CHIEF Report of the Police Department Over the past year the North Andover Police Department has maintained and expanded exist- ing programs as well as responding to the many new challenges placed on modem law enforce- ment agencies. Much of this progress has been a direct result of an aggressive effort to compete for grant money on the state and federal level. One of the greatest improvements has been the installation of a modem computer system. This system has not only streamlined our record keeping process but allows us to track crime trends and to coordinate accident data with enforcement efforts. It has proved to be a vital tool in the planning process to direct our resources where they are most needed. It is also of great value in responding to the unprecedented number of requests for information that we receive. Further en- hancements are in progress that will allow officers to access more information from the termi- nals in their cruisers. This will allow officers to continue investigations and complete reports without having to be taken out of service and, therefore, remain visible and available throughout town. Another enhancement is the digital imaging of mug shots. Many of these recent upgrades have been made possible by a Federal Byme Grant of $151,000. This is a technology grant dis- tributed by the Executive Office of Public Safety. The Criminal Investigation Division has had great success in solving some difficult cases over the past year. Increased participation in investigations by the uniformed members of the depart- ment, additional equipment, training and development of individual officer's skills have lead to this success. Inspector Diane Peek was instrumental in securing a "Violence Against Women" grant in the amount of $39,284. to help us combat domestic violence. Intensive training for all department personnel and assistance programs will help us aid victims and prosecute batterers. Another grant which will increase officer awareness was awarded to us from the U.S. Depart- ment of Justice. It is a Law Enforcement Block Grant for $11,221. Which will be used for cul- tural diversity training. A Community Policing Grant of $48,750 was awarded to North Andover which allows us to continue to sponsor programs like the Student Police Academy, Lt, Paul Gallagher, Sgt. Ttm Crane, Inspector Dan Cronin and other officers have worked hard to present an informative program to the high school age students who participated, A Drug Awareness Resistance Education grant of $22,160 has allowed Officers Tracy Castiglione and Gene Salois to expand their efforts to educate our youth about the dangers of drags, alcohol and violence. They have coordinated their efforts with the Youth Services Department and other agencies over the years to provide a variety of assistance and activities for the young people of North Andover. Moving traffic safely on out streets and through our neighborhoods continues to be one of the greatest challenges facing our community. Sgt. Fred Soucy has streamlined the process for han- dling concerns of residents about traffic issues. He has worked on a number of studies to recom- mend engineering improvements in key areas. As officers spend more and more time on calls for service, traffic enforcement efforts often suffer. Detailed plans have been developed to take advantage of a Federal C.O.RS. (Community Oriented Policing Services) grant of $533,189 offered to North Andover to hire several officers. We are working on acceptance, by the Board of Selectmen, of the grant and plan to form a traffic unit. The teams primary responsibility would be to educate drivers and pedestrians and target specific areas for enforcement. We have worked diligently toward implementing more of the recommendations made in a management study of the department in 1996. Expanded and more regular staff meetings have improved communication and teamwork throughout the department. We are currently involved in a strategic planning process for the department which will help guide us to meeting our goals and ohjectives in the coming years and coordinate our goals with those of other town agencies. Increased demands for services from police agencies, specifically in areas that have not traditionally been considered part of "law enforcement" have created new challenges for our department. We look forward to addressing these challenges in our planning process. I would like to thank the residents of North Andover and members of the business commu- nity for your continued support. I would also like to thank the men and women of the North Andover Police Department for their hard work and dedication. We look forward to working to- gether with you and the other town departments to improve the services we provide. Respectfully Submitted, RICHARD M. STANLEY CHIEF OF POLICE ADULT ARRESTS July 1,1998 - June 31,1 gg? Assault and Battery Assault by Dangerous Weapon Assault with Intent to Rape Assault and Battery/Family Member Assault and Battery on a Police Officer Attaching Plates Breaking and Entering Attempted Breaking and Entering Contribute to Delinquency of a Minor Credit Card Fraud Defraud Innkeeper Destruction of Property Disguise to Obstruct Justice Disorderly Person Disturbing the Peace Fail to Yield at Intersection False Information to a Police Officer False Statement on RMV Document Follow too Close Indecent Exposure Larceny Lewd and Lascivious License Not in Possession Maintain Disorderly House Malicious Damage 7 11 1 18 6 9 1 2 1 5 3 3 1 65 1 2 7 5 2 1 3 3 2 2 1 Minor in Possession of Alcohol No Inspection Sticker Number Plate Violation Operating Under the Influence of Liquor Operating Under the Influence of Drags Obscured License Plate Open Container Operating to Endanger Operating Without a License Operating After Suspension/Revocation Operating After Suspension for OUI Possession Class A Possession Class B Possession Class D Possession Class E Possession Drag Paraphernalia Possession Alcohol Possession of Fireworks Possession Hypodermic Needle and Syringe Possession Dangerous Weapon Prostitution Protective Custody Rape of a Child under 16 Red Light Violation Refuse to Stop for Police Officer Resisting Arrest Receiving Stolen Property Shoplifting Speeding Stalking Threat to Commit a Crime Trespassing Unarmed Robbery Uninsured Motor Vehicle Unlicensed Possession Firearm Unregistered Motor Vehicle Violation of Marked Lanes Violation of Restraining Order Violation of State Highway Signal/Sign/Marking Warrants-Local Warrants-Other Total Complaints Issued Total Adult Arrests 57 6 4 21 1 1 3 l 14 2'7 2 3 4 47 2 2 5 1 1 4 1 3 2 4 5 5 11 58 10 1 1 18 1 26 3 14 13 3 3 1'91 46 794 558 JUVENILE ARRESTS July 1,1 gg6 - June 31,1997 Assault to Maim Assault and Battery Assault and Battery/Household Member Assault and Battery by Dangerous Weapon Child in Need of Services Defraud Innkeeper Disorderly Conduct Larceny Leave Scene of Accident with Personal Injury Leave Scene of Accident with Property Damage Minor in Possession of Alcohol Minor Transporting Alcohol Operating Without a License Possession of Alcohol Possession Class C Possession Class D Possession Class D with Intent to Distribute Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Receiving Stolen Property Resisting Arrest Tattooing Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle Total Complaints Issued Total Juvenile Arrests 1 4 3 1 1 1 18 1 1 1 3 3 7 1 10 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 113 64 Police Department Communications Center. CITATIONS July 1, lgg6 - June 31, lgg7 Breakdown Lane Violation Child 6-12 Without Seat Belt Crosswalk Violation Equipment Violation Fail to Keep Right for Oncoming Traffic Fail to Yield at Intersection Fail to Wear Seat Belt Fail to Slow Fail to Stop for School Bus Fail to Stop for Blind Pedestrian Improper Turn Improper Operation of Motor Vehicle Left Lane Restriction Violation License Not in Possession Marked Lanes Violation Motor Vehicle By-Law Violation No Inspection Sticker Number Plate Violation Operation of Unregistered Motor Vehicle Passing Violation Pedestrian Violation Red Light/Stop Sign Violation Registration Not in Possession Registration Sticker Not Displayed Speeding S~ate Highway Traffic Violation Trespass with Motor Vehicle Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle Violation of State Highway Regulations Violation of State Highway Signal/Sign/Marking Miscellaneous Total Violations 4 6 2 41 1 11 45 2 3 1 10 3 1 20 27 1 73 9 49 49 1 375 18 3 786 5 1 5 12 27 17 1608 Report of the Division of Public Works The following is a summary of activities within the Division of Public Works for the period of July 1, 1996, to June 30, 1997. Water Supply & Distribution There were installed in 1996-1997, 3080 feet of twelve-inch, 24,080 feet of eight-inch, 12 twelve-inch, 63 eight-inch, 60 six-inch gate valves; and 59 fire hydrants. The water main distri- bution system now consists of 140.05 miles of main pipe; 6 twelve-inch check valves; 4 twelve- inch altitude valves, 5 twenty-four inch butterfly valves; 471 twelve-inch, 8 ten-inch,858 eight-inch, 1719 six-inch, and 4 four-inch gate valves; with 1274 public hydrants, Size of Pipe (Inches) 24 12 10 8 Length of Pipe (Feet) 1917 245,499 8521 336,035 Size of Pipe (Inches) 6 4 Length of Pipe (Feet) 142,471 1262 3 160 There were installed ha 1996-1997 either wholly or partially, 122 water services. 276 new meters were installed and 68 old meters were repaired. 10 fire hydrants broken offby cars were replaced and 35 water main or service leaks were repaired. Hydrants were inspected, repaired, and painted where necessary. A partial hydrant flushing program of the distribution system was completed in July. Statistics of ConsumpUon of Water Annual Report Calculation for FY 97 Months FW Totals, MG's July 1996 121.7301 (Million Gallons (MG's) August 123.2005 September 88.7710 October 76.9369 November 76.7950 December 75.7519 January 1997 76.1690 February 68.7520 March 75.0388 April 74.8339 May 88.9511 June 144.0516 O 1. Total consumption of the year (MG's) 2. Average daily consumption (MG's) 3. Maximum daily consumption (MG's) Statistics Relating to Distribution System 1. Kind of pipe cast iron and ductile iron 2. Sizes 3. Extended during the year (feet) 4. Discontinued (feet) 5. Total number of hydrants added during year 6. Total number of hydrants now in use 7. Number of stop gates now in use 9. Number of stop gates smaller than 4 inches 10. Number ofblowoffs 11. Range of pressure on mains 12. Kind of service pipe--cement lined, lead lined, copper, cast iron, and ductile iron. 13. Size of service pipe 14. Number of service taps added this year 15. Number of service taps now in use. 16. Number of meters installed 1090.9818 2.8980 6.5571 3" to 24" 27,180 10,015 59 1,274 3,021 0 6 20 to 148 psi 3/4" to 10" 122 6,586 276 In May the Drinking Water Treatment Plant personnel removed spent Granular Activated Carbon(GAC) from filters 6, 7 and 8 and installed roughly 49,000 lbs. of virgin quality GAC in each. Total cost or the GAC purchase was $126,281.00. These three carbon filters have cleaned approximately 1.3 billion gallons of water. Removal of the Town's old ozone system began in August of 1996. Shortly thereafter instal- lation of the new ozone system took place. The new ozone system was put into service on Janu- ary 12, 1997. This new ozone system has enhanced the quality of the finished water product by burning up organic compounds in the lake water prior to process treatment, making their removal easier. It also provides an added measure of insurance in the destruction of Giardia and Cryptosporidium Protozoan micro-organisms. Two more Sewer Pumping Stations (SPS), Holly Ridge and Hawthorne Place were transferred over to the Town from private ownership January 1997. This brings the total of 11 SPS's oper- ated and maintained by the Water / Sewer Department. In May, 1997 the Drinking Water Treatment Plant celebrated National Drinking Water Month by setting up a "water display" in the treatment plant's foyer. Some subjects that were touched upon were conservation, watershed protection, water treatment and water quality. Several school groups toured the plant this month and found the display and the tour quite educational. Because of its success the display will remain standing and continuously updated with new Subjects on water. Also in May, for the sixth year, the Water Treatment Plant received an award from the Ameri- can Dental Society for maintaining excellence in the addition of floride to the water to combat tooth decay. Because of this award we are now able to help other communities who floridate. Going into our third year the Watershed Committee, which consists of town employees from the Water Treatment Plant, DPW, Health, Planning and Conservation Departments, have been meeting weekly to discuss issues relating to the protection of the water supply and watershed. A weekly lake and tributary monitoring program is also ongoing to collect historical data and to monitor sources of pollution that might be entering the lake. A study of the lake continues by a company named ENSR. The study is an up_ri_a~_e of the original report on the water supply in 1978, We are hoping to see if the original recommendations in the 1978 report that were implemented have had any positive effect on the quality of the water in the lake. Some of the Water Treatment Plant personnel received recognition this year from a national organization, the American Water Works Association (AWWA), for their contribution to a research project entitled, "Factors Limiting Microbial Growth in the Distribution System". The Project is now an AWWA Research Foundation publication. In July the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced that the Water Treat- ment Plant Personnel and the Watershed Committee would receive an award for the Source Pro- tection Plan that was submitted to the DEP. This plan was done voluntarily for the DEP so that they could have an example for other communities. The purpose of a Source Protection Plan is to improve watershed protection which would: increase protection against water borne disease, help defray treatment costs, and avoid disinfection byproducts which are produced when there are a large amount of organic compounds in the lake. A Source Protection plan and its implementation is now mandated in the 1996 Reanthorization of the Safe Drinking Water Act. The Watershed Com- mittee will be responsible for managing this plan. Sewage Collection & Treatment In North Andover, sewerage is designed to flow in three divisions: the east side drainage area with its trunk sewer following Lake Cochichewick to the Merrimack River; the west side drain- age area with its trunk on Massachusetts Avenue and Waverley Road; and along the Shawsheen River to the Merrimack River; and the central drainage area bounded by Waverley Road, Middlesex Street, and Main Street to the Merrimack River by way of the Greater Lawrence Sewerage Treat- merit Plant. There are 71.27 miles of sewers in the North Andover Sewerage System with 4487 house connections. A contract for constmctinn of the North Main Street Relief Sewer was awarded to Weswal Construction in March 1997. General bids for Contract gl of the Infiltration/Inflow Removal Program were received in February 1997. The contract was awarded to D & C Construc- tion Co. in the amount of $781,555.00 Size of Sewers (Inches) 27 24 20 18 15 Length of Sewers (Feet) 2737 13447 9,547 28,366 2,909 Size of Sewers (Inches) 12 10 8 6 Length of Sewers (Feet) 33,967 11,575 188,659 85,117 Solid Waste Collection & Disposal Rubbish collection was carried out throughout the year by Town crews. 8349 Tons were collected and disposed of at the resource recovery facility on Holt Road. The Town is a member of the Northeast Solid Waste Committee (N.E.S.W.C.). Recycling The recycling program in North Andover is one of the best in the state with a waste to recycling ratio of 41%. The state has recognized our achievement with an "A" rating for FY '97. The state's year 2000 goal is 46%, therefore North Andover is well on its way in compliance. Our Recycling program consists of 1. Biweekly curbside collection of three types of glass, aluminum and steel cans, number 2 plastic milk jugs, and paper. Over 5,000 red recycling bins have been distributed to our residents. 2. A drop off center at the Department of Public Works garage is open daily from 9 to 3 and one Saturday per month from 9 to 12. All items that are picked up curbside in addition to number 1 and number 2 plastic bottles are eligible. 3. A drop off center at the Cyr Recycling Area on Sharpners Pond Road is for yard waste as well as leaf and grass clippings. This center is open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from April through December. 4. An oil recycling drop off center at the Department of Public Works garage is held on the first and third Saturday of each month and a white goods pickup two Fridays per month by ap- pointment. Other recycling activities continued at our transfer station at the Department of Public Works giving North Andover DPW the ability to market the recycled commodities, thereby giving more services without any increase in costs. Street Maintenance Drainage repairs: Catch basins were repaired or rebuilt as required. The following streets were all or partly paved: Ferry Street, Hewitt Ave., Rosedale, Walnut, Beech Ave, Faulkner Road, Russell Street, Allen Street, and Highlandview Ave. Extensive patching with hot top was done in areas where road sags and fractures existed to minimize the out break of pot holes in this coming winter season. Power swept all streets, hand swept all sidewalks, and dug all catch basins. Maintained all street signs and maintained all parks, triangles, athletic fields, and schools. Catch basins were cleaned by machine and by hand total- ing over 250 feet of drainage pipe cleaned. Problem catch basins were cleaned as required. Catch basins rebuilt included basins on Milk Street, Johnson Street, Hewitt Ave., and Flag- ship Drive. Forestry & Tree Maintenance Services provided by this department include cutting of grass and brash on sides of all rural roads and intersections where required. Removed large, dead, problem trees with the Skyworker bucket track. Some of the trees removed included trees on Main Street, Johnson Street, Boston Street, William Street, Belmont Street, Buckingham Road, Chestnut Street, Mass Avenue, Bradford Street, and Chadwick Street. Removed stumps at various locations in Town including Main Street, Johnson Street, Boston Street, William Street, Belmont Street, Buckingham Road, Chestnut Street, Mass Avenue, Bradford Street, and Chadwick Street. Christmas trees were chipped in January. Playground Maintenance The playground system consists of Grogan's Field, 4.7 acres; Drummond Field, 5.0 acres; American Legion Beach, 1.4 acres; Carl Thomas Playground, 4.7 acres; Aplin Playground, 1.8 acres; Chadwick Street Playground, 3.0 acres; Soccer Field at the Cyr Recreation Area, 2 acres; and the new field at the Town Farm. This brings the total number of acres to 25.10. In preparing for the very busy summer season, the following work was completed: All exist- ing swing sets and see-saws were repaired and painted. Playground equipment was installed at all playgrounds and the bathing beach. All benches were repaired and replaced at the playgrounds as needed. Sand was spread over the bathing beach to improve the swimming area. A new type of baby safety swings were placed at each playground. The beach was open June through Au- gust. Over 2,000 swimming lessons were given by the Director Donald Smith and other lifeguards. A fence and dugout were added to the baseball diamond at the Aplin Playground. Perimeter landscape, timbers and a sand base were installed at various playground devices throughout town for added safety. A new surface was placed on the Reynolds Basketball court. Parks & School Grounds Maintenance The parks area consists of the Center Common, 8.1 acres; training grounds, 1.9 acres; Memo- rial Park, 2.7 acres; Old Burying Ground, 1 acre; Historical Society Plot; Farrington Burying Grounds; and 20 small plots at street intersections - a total of 15 acres. All park areas were main- rained, and mowed an average of once per weelc All triangles at various loca6ons were main- tained and mowed. School ground areas consists oftbe Bradstreet School, 1.20 acres; Thomson School, 3.00 acres; Kittredge School, 6.57 acres; Franklin School, 8.77 acres; North Andover Middle School and Atkinsou School, 38.34 acres; and the High School, 44.52 acres - a total of 102.40 acres. Bleach- ers were repah~ and repalnted as required. Baseball fields, track and field facilities, field hockey, soccer, and football fields were maintained for competitive school events and practice. Respectfully submittal, J. Wn~UA~ I-IM~cL~K DMSlON OF PUBLIC WORKS Report of the Affirmative Action Program The Town of North Andover Affirmative Action Office is responsible for monitoring, review- hag, and assisting the Town Manager in the implementation of the Town of North Andover Affir- mative Action Program and making quarterly progress reports to the Town Manager, the Community Development Director, and the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination. This program consists of four (4) plans, as follows: 1. Municipal Employment Activities Plan 2. Contract Compliance and Minority/Women's Business Enterprise Plan 3. Fair Housing Plan and Fair Housing Committee 4. Town of North Andover Commission on Disabilities Issues Municipal Employment Activities Program · Assisted the Town Manager by reviewing with a sign-off, applications, requisitions, and es- tablishing an eligible list. · Prepare quarterly applicant flow data, promotions, separations data. · Notify vacancy announcements for minority/female outreach and review the Town's work force for availability of qualified women and minorities for the position. · Advertise positions in the local newspaper, regional newspaper, and periodicals serving mi- nority communities. · Prepare quarterly reports for the Town Manager and Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination. · Assist in implementation of Affirmative Action Programs. · Attend various state conferences for update on Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Laws. Contract Compliance and Minority/Women's Business Enterprise Program · Meet on a regular monthly basis with the North Andover Afl~u'mative Action Consultant. · Orientation and update on contract compliance regulations on both state and federal level with consultant. · Update vendor master file purchases to readily identify minority/woman suppliers. · Analyze and evaluate the Town master vendor file to improve performance ha Town profes- sional services and vendor purchases. · Utilize SOMBA annual directory to outreach minority and female contractors and subcontractors. · Notification to state office (SOMBA) of intention to bid on projects. · Quarterly analysis and evaluation of the Town of North Andover contract compliance report and minority business enterprise report in preparation for submitting to Massachusetts Com- mission Against Discrimination and the Town Manager. · Semi-annual assessment and evaluation of the communities participation in the contract award activity. Preparation of a written document reflects results of analysis. Report sent to Massa- chusetts Commission Against Discrimination and the Town Manager. · Make necessary adjustments in the semi-annual assessment and evaluation of the contract awards activities performance in order to comply with the Minority/Women's Business En- terprise contract compliance plan requirements per Town and Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination Agreements. · Preparation of annual review and update for all other Minority/Women's Business Enterprise programs administrated by the Town. Fair Housing Plan and Fair Housing Committee · The Fair Housing Committee continues to be coordinated by the Division of Community De- velopment and Services. · The Town of North Andover is an active participant in the HOME Consortium. · The Town continues to work on a regional approach toward providing affordable housing op- tions for North Andover. Report of the Commission on Disability Issues The North Andover Commission on Disability Issues (NACD) continues to work toward en- suring that the civil rights of people with all types of disabilities are met. Commissioners con- tinue to attend conferences and workshops to assure the Town's full implementation with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Some of these recommendations for improvements which bring local businesses into ADA compliance include installing accessible posting signs, adapting bathrooms and doorways, acquir- ing TrY units (phones for deaf persons), and installing ramps. Overall, businesses are very will- ing to make these changes because they realize that making goods and services fully accessible to people of all ages with various kinds of disabilites increases their sales. Among accomplishments of NACD include a training program at the Heritage on Chickering Road attended by building inspectors, human service providing architects, engineers and other local Disability Commission members. This training was co-sponsored with the Massachusetts Office on Disability, the Notxheast Independent Living Program, and New England ADA Tech- nical Assistance Center. At a recent NACD Meeting elections were held and we are pleased'to report that Cheryl Vazza Scott is our new Chairperson with Jim Lyons as our new co-Chairperson. A quorum has been achieved at all of our meetings this year. We have met with wonderful guest speakers in eluding Bill Hmurciak (D.P.W. Director) and Bob Nicetta (Building Inspector). All persons interest~xl in learning more about the Commission, the ADA or other disability related issues are welcome to come to our meetings which are held Thursday evenings. Respectfully submitted, CHERYL. VA~A SCOWl', CHAIRPERSON JIM LYONS, VICE-CHAIRPERSON JUDY MOOLIC B~.B^R^ CURRIER LEONARD "SKIP" PERKINS SELECTMAN DONALD B. STEWART Report of the Housing Authority Organized in 1948 to address the housing need of the Town's returning Veteran population the NAHA is "a public body politic and corporate," authorized by State Law (M.G.L. Chapter 12lB, S 3) and Federal (Department of Housing and Urban Development) funding sources. Al- though NAHA receives no direct local funding, five unpaid North Andover residents (four elected and one appointed by the Governor for a five-year term), who compose the Board of Commis- sioners, govern the Authority and are legally responsible for its overall operation. The Board meets regularly on the fourth Wednesday of each month and conducts its Annual Meeting and election of officers each March. The Board of Commissioners contract an Execu- tive Director who administers the day -to-day operations operation of the Authority and within State and Federal budgetary limitations, hires such supporting staff as it determines necessary to achieve its goals and to fulfill its responsibilities. The following individuals make up the current staff: · Hope R. Minicucci, Executive Director · M. lacqueline Lamprey, Assisted Housing Program Coordinator · Joanne M. Comerford, Bookkeeper · Linda M. Donovan, Program Aide · Sally Lavigne, Property Manager (Hired 1997) · Susan Laorenza, Family Self-Sufficiency Coordinator · Ruth M. Geary, Bookkeer, Retired (1997) · Jospeh F. Walsh, Maintenance Supervisor · James Camire, Maintenance Mechanic · Allen Miller, Maintenance Mechanic (Hired 1997) · Walter Pawlick, Maintenance Mechanic, Retired (1997) Once again, this Authority has received an eligible/qualified management rating from the Department of Housing and Community Development. This rating, the highest given, was based on our past performances and a complete review of a submitted checklist. The Authority has re- ceived this rating for the past thirteen years. Other notable accomplishments include: · The Authority's PHMAP received a grade of 97.14% out of a possible 100%. Grades from 90-100 have been achieved the past several years · The Executive Director was elected to the board of Directors of the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Association of Housing Revelopment Officials during its Annual Meeting in May. She is Immediate Past President of the North Shore Housing Executive Directors Associatio which serves 65 housing anthorites. · The Assisted Housing Program Coordinator is an active member of the Section 8 Administra- tion Association. · Once again the Agency had no findings in a recent Single Audit. Each year, under Federal Law, a single audit is conducted to determine that all regulations are followed. The staff was com- mended by the Commissioners for continuing to do a fmc job. · The Authority has received the Group Trust Safety Award in 1997. This award recognizes no workers compensation claims and that no claims were received for the reporting period. Housing Programs include: · Elderly/Handicapped Programs (667-c) - Fountain Drive 40 Units; Bingham Way - 42 Units; Foulds Terrace - 52 Units; O'Connor Heights - 20 conventional, 2 five bedroom congregate · 200-1 Veteran's Housing Program - Francis and Baldwin SWeets - 24 Units · Chapter 705 Family Housing Units - Ashland Street - 2 Units · Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program · Alternative Housing Voucher Program · Federally Funded and Regulated Programs include McCahe Court - 45 Units and Morkeski Meadows - 60 Units · Leased Housing Programs - Section 8 for Existing Housing Rental Assistance Programs · Family Self-Sufficiency Program seeks to assist the rising number of very low income fami- lies to move from welfare dependency toward full employment and economic self-sufficiency A special thanks to the Authority staff. Respectfully submitted, HOPE R. M~mcucc~, PI-IM Board of Commissioners WILL.Vt P. McEvo¥, Cv. nm~q CLARE A. Coco, VIcE-CHAIn ANN^ O'Co.~oa, TP~AS~ Kzrm MrrC.EL~ HELEN SOUCY Report of the Council for the Arts This year has been a busy and productive one for the Council. In September of 1997 the Council held a Community Input Meeting to discuss what the various civic and cultural organizations in North Andover would like to see the Council do and what projects they would like to see the Council sponsor. Among the groups represented were * North Andover Recreation Department · North Andover Historical Society · North Andover Schools Enrichment Council '* North Andover Improvement Society * Stevens Memorial Library As a result of this meeting, many groups submitted grant proposals. Some of the projects funded were three programs for Elder Services, funds to relocate and refurbish war memorial monuments awarded to the Friends of Memorial Park, school projects, and funding for the band concerts held at the North Andover Common. The North Andover Council for the Arts submitted two proposals that will enable the Council to sponsor and Arts Festival for the Town of North Andover. This project will be initiated with a series of art workshops for the youth of North Andover during the school vacation of April 1998. Respectfully submitted, JUDITH HILLNER CHAIRPERSON Report of the North Andover School Committee Planning for the future, both academically and f'mancially commanded a great deal of time and attention this year. The financial health of the community and the school building needs of a growing student population were of particular concern. In the summer of 1996 the School Committee appointed eight citizens to the School Facility Master Plan Committee. The Committee started with the Town's Strategic Planning Committee conelusien that "North Andover's schools require substantial renovation to remain effective learn- lng centers" and the New England School Development Council's (NESDEC) identification of two main problems "of a projected space shortage over the next ten years of approximately 1300 elementary pupil stations..." and "there is an on-going and urgent need to remedy the "open space" problem at the High School." The Master Plan Committee's first step recommendations called for a new Thomson School, a new Dale Street area elementary school, and a renovation/addition or new High School. The new Thomson School was approved in the Spring by the voters in a debt exclusion election. We are grateful for the support of the community and especially happy in the fulfillment ora 10 year dream for the neighborhood and children of the Thomson School. The opening of Thomson in the winter of 1999 will alleviate overcrowding in other schools for several years. Preliminary work was approved by Town Meeting for selecting a new out-country elementary school site and site- work and architectural studies for the most cost effective up-grade for the high school facility. The 1998 Town Meeting will be making decisions on elementary site and high school plan. The Middle School project continues to be on time and on budget. The new classroom wing, library and performance center were opened in February 1997. The fa-st renovated classroom wing, cafeteria, and auditorium were ready in the Fall of '97. The third classroom wing should be com- pleted in February of 1998. The school and its site have been transformed. We urge citizens to visit the school and be proud your new Middle School. The School Committee working with the Board of Selectmen ~d the Finance Committee sought solutions for the growing f'mancial crisis facing the Town. The Town with a school sys- tem growing by more than 100 students every year simply cannot keep up the services citizens desire and growing enrollments require under the limits of Proposition 2 1/2. The only available solutions were an override or cuts in services. We thank the citizens for their support in voting yes to maintaining services. Passage meant class sizes at the elementary, middle and high school levels would stay the same instead of increasing. Building maintenance, repairs and technology upgrades could continue. Unfortunately due to the limited amount in the override for education and continuing increases in enrollments financial limitations on the school budget continue. Class sizes at all levels, resources for children and their teachers, availability of courses at the high school, and busing continue to be among the concerns for the school system. There are challenges ahead. Education Reform demands massive curriculum changes to match the state mandated Curriculum Frameworks. There will be state tests at the fourth and eighth grade. Passing a tenth grade test, starting with the Class of 2003, will be required for graduation. Our teachers and administration have been working very hard to align the curriculum with state requirements. At the same time our society is changing rapidly. The workplace will require educated work- ers capable of critical thinking and problem solving. Our children's careers will change many times over their lifetimes. For the first time this generation, in order to better itseff, will require higher education to succeed. Telecommunication, the intemet, and computers are changing the workplace and society. It is being said this is "the first generation in humankind that knows more about and can control the principal innovation of it's age than it's previous generation." All our children must have the knowledge to use these tools and be prepared for the twenty first century. After one term, one year as Chairman, Steve Bullis retired. His services will be missed for he was an effective leader and worker for the children of North Andover. Louis Minicucci, currently Chairman of the School Building Committee, was elected to a three year term and Marilyn Doyle was re-elected. Our school system has many people all working together trying to do what is best for the chil- dren. Teachers, support staff, administrators, parents, ordinary citizens, businesses, all contribute towards a school system not content to stay as it is but always striving to do better. We thank you for your efforts on behalf of the children. Respectfully submitted, Dt^~E J. HUSTER, CHAIR DAVID J. MARILYN G. DOYLE JoH~ S. LYONS Louts P. M~q~cucca, JR. Report of the Superintendent of Schools Introduction While this report focuses on events and progress of North Andover's Public Schools during the 1996-1997 academic year, which began in September 1996, it was assembled during the 1997- 1998 academic year--my last as the Town's Superintendent of Schools. Revisiting and reporting on the district's developments, I take pride in the strides we have taken and, as my tenure as a public-school administrator draws to a close, marvel at and reflect on the ways in which our children, our schools and our world have changed during the last decade and more. Although we may debate the merits of this change, we cannot deny that the lives of our fami- lies and their children have become increasingly complex, competitive, and stressful as we ap- proach the new century. Consequently, our schools have been challenged to respond in ways that not only broaden the spectrum of approaches to learning, but also to accommodate the demands--- legal, medical, academic and physical of a diverse student population that will routinely learn, work, and communicate using methods we could only dream about when my career began. Three factors in particular underscore the scope this change. First, computer technology--whether we like it or not--now plays a dominant role in the lives and learning styles of our students, often replacing reference books as the means by which they gather and digest information. As such, we are witness to a worldwide and not-so-gradual ero- sion of a print tradition than has spanned more than five centuries. (Encyclopedia Britannica, for example, now sells far more compact-disc versions of its work than bound volumes, chiefly be- cause the electronic package is easier for students to use and thousands of dollars less expensive to purchase.) Second, a significant number of students and their families have a need for special-education programs in the public-school setting. Moreover, an even broader spectrum of children require specialized attention of some sort from our staff. For example, school nurses now regularly dis- pense prescribed medication to hundreds of students. Once again, whether we like it or not, we must be prepared for and respond to a condition far more prevalent today than it was even a de- cade ago. Third, the pace of family life has become increasingly hectic as parents are working longer and harder to maintain a quality of life for their families that a smaller household income could reasonably sustain a generation ago. Today, many elementary students arrive at our department's Breakfast Club program as early as 7 a.m. and stay after school at Kids' Stop, which continues until 6 p.m.--a long day even by adult standards. Moreover, many others depart from elemen- tary school for private after-school care, as our in-school program has a long waiting list. Not surprisingly, demands of work have also resulted in a far higher number of children who arrive sick at school: students were dismissed due to illness on 18,222 occasions during the 1996- 1997 school year--an average of almost five dismissals during the course of the year per student enrolled in the system. These three factors have had an undeniable and complex influence on the nature and scope of the job our nation's public schools are being asked to do--and they have come to bear in North Andover as well. During my tenure as superintendent, we have endeavored not only to strengthen the system's physical and academic foundations, but also to anticipate the fundamental changes to teaching, learning, and the societal environment that will take hold during the next decade and more--a considerable challenge as the volume of information and intellectual demands on chil- dren and adults alike continue to multiply at a staggering pace. When I assumed this position, in January 1987, the town provided public education for about 3,400 students--an overall number that had remained relatively constant even as new develop- ment added income to municipal coffers. Perhaps predictably, growth of the student population began to outpace expansion of the town as a whole during the early 1990s--a continuing trend in 1997 and beyond. In 1998, the system enrolls just over 4,100 students--800 more than it did just a decade ago. The most recent enrollment projections indicate an increase of just over 500 stu- dents within the next five years. I am particularly proud of the fact that, during this last decade, we have worked together to respond to growth by adding a significant number of permanent classrooms to the system--al- most keeping pace with the student population's growth from 1988 to 1998. Unfortunately, por- table classrooms and time-worn facilities that should have been replaced during the 1970s and 1980s continue to be as essential in 1998 as they were when I arrived in 1987, chiefly because the system permanently expanded as the town was developed and no corresponding facilities were constructed at that time. This discomforting legacy from the past---along with substantial repair or replacement of our open-concept high school (the newest school in town until the Annie L. Sargent Elementary School opened in September 1995)--remain as unconquered tasks as my work here draws to a close. I am pleased, however, that the School Committee, citizen volunteers, and elected and appointed officials from all quarters of our municipal government have collaborated during the last several years to define and develop a plan for addressing these long-term needs. Facilities Needs Addressed The 1996-1997 academic year saw three major and positive steps as the town began to ad- dress our system's long-term facilities needs. First, expansion of North Andover Middle School, approved by voters during the 1995-1996 academic year, began. Thanks largely to the efforts of a hard-working and highly competent School Building Committee, construction proceeded on time and under budget--scheduled for comple- tion in Spring 1998. Second, special town meeting approved a $275,000 expenditure for furthering of a North Andover School Facilities Master Plan. Principally, the expenditure was designed to evaluate and refine plans for the system's future needs, including · updating of existing plans for a New Thomson Elementary School. Asomewhat smaller school on the same site had been proposed to and rejected by voters in 1988; · renovation or replacement of the open-concept high school; · construction of a new "out country" elementary school to replace the Bradstreet Early Child- hood Learning Center (built in 1911) and 12 portable classrooms now attached to the Franklin, Kittredge, Atkinson and Thomson schools. Additionally, an ad hoc School Facilities Master Plan Committee--comprised of representa- fives from the Board of Selectmen, School Committee, Finance Committee and parent organiza- tions-recommended a possible addition to the Atkinson Elementary School if the student population continues to grow as we expect. Finally, voters approved construction of a new and larger Thomson Elementary School for 375-400 students, replacing a facility constructed in 1924 for education of approximately 165 students. (Construction began in November 1997.) While the new school will add only seven classrooms to our system (because existing classrooms in the old building will be demolished when the new structure is finished), completion of the New Thomson School will be a major step forward for two reasons. First, it will place a state-of-the-art school in an area of town that has not benefited from a new facility in several decades. Second, the larger school will enable al- most 200 children who now travel to elementary schools much father from home to "come back" to their neighborhood school. (Construction of the new school should be finished by the sum- mer of 1999.) Curriculum Changes The district continued to make progress in changes to curriculum, instruction, and assessment, completing the third year of a "Success for All Students" program. This exciting three-year pe- riod of professional development and curriculum growth brought together talented faculty and staff--nearly 300 members strong--to build on a vision of challenging all students to their high- est levels of learning. Developed by the Curriculum Steering Committee, a Five-Year Master Plan charted a com- prehensive strategy for integrating curriculum and professional development. The steering group directed subordinate Curriculum Development Committees to revise curricula at all levels to address three critical components: curriculum (what is tangh0, instruction (how teaching occurs), and assessment (how progress is measured). The new model will allow us to define more exactly-- for ourselves and for the public--what we mean by "success" in learning. As it does in so many of our endeavors, technology played an important role in creation and assessment of the curriculum revision: we now use a relational database to coordinate North Andover's PreK-12 curriculum to the statewide Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. Technological Applications As more students and their parents use computers at home, work, and school, the system made great strides in expanding technological applications during the 1996-1997 school year. High- lights included: · Development and implementation ora school-wide "Home Page" accessible to the public on the World Wide Web (http://www.nandover. mec.edu). Information from the Central Office and from each school can be found at this site, thanks to the hard work of our Technology Task Force and teams at each school. · Expansion of Internet access and e-mail to include all elementary schools and the Middle School. Today, all elementary-school classrooms, administrative offi~:es, libraries and resource centers are linked together in a Wide-Area Network--and all administrators and teachers have Intemet access. At North Andover High School, six areas of the facility have also been desig- nated for connection to the network. (The Massachusetts Department of Education continues to provide funding for infrastructure and networking hardware through the state's Technol- ogy Bond Bill.) · Creation and implementation of a system-wide Acceptable Use Policy for Intemet access. At each School, students review and sign the agreement for responsible use of our Intemet re- SOurces. Looking ahead, during the next several years our community and others across the country must confront the substantial challenge of coming to terms with the expense of maintaining our schools' technological resources--a far more difficult and perilous job than the last generation's purchasing of books for the library---especially because truly useful and interactive technology has, to date, been costly and short-lived. Consequently, the temptation to mm away from tech- nology is attractive, particularly in communities hard-pressed to provide adequate facilities and other basic needs. Succumbing to such a temptation would be a mistake. As public schools of the last generation and before prepared their students to succeed in a less automated workplace, today's schools must acknowledge that careers of the future will increasingly require technological know-how. In this context, we must be vigilant to ensure that public schools here and elsewhere continue to suc- ceed in their primary mission of offering all students--rich and poor, gifted and challenged--the opportunity to compete and prosper in the information-based workplace on which our economy is now predicated. Special Education During the course oftbe 1996-1997 school year, the North Andover School District provided special education and related services to a total of 605 students between the ages of three and twenty-one. This represents approximately 13 percent of the total student population--well be- low the state average and slightly higher than the national average. These students were identified through a comprehensive referral and evaluation process. In an effort to provide staff and parents with more meaningful evaluations, staff, counselors, and school psychologists underwent a two-day training seminar. In accordance with the school district's local Child Find Program, referrals for students between the ages of three and twenty-one sus- pected of having an educational disability can be made at any time by contacting the office of North Andover's Administrator of Special Education. System-wide, we broadened our knowledge of and abilities in developing and implementing programming for children with increasingly complex and diverse needs. Moreover, through the collaborative planning of administrators, teachers, and staff in every school, we have continued to explore alternative approaches to coordinating delivery of services to special-needs children. Adding to the challenge of public education, demand for and awareness of special-education services continues to grow. Yet, we continue to educate most of these students within our regular classroom settings. The Elementary Program (Grades K-S) After a transitional year in which opening of the new Annie L. Sargent School required com- prehensive and disconcerting redistricting of elementary students, the system's early childhood learning center and elementary schools dedicated the 1996-1997 academic year to three endeav- ors designed to enhance our public-school program for young children, including: · Implementation of requirements as mandated by the Massachusetts Education Reform Law to strengthen elementary curricula. · Continuing to define and strengthen the "school culture" of our newly constituted elementary communities. · More comprehensive use of technology in the classroom and as a community-wide commu- nications tool. Once again, the work of dedicated teachers, administrators, students, and parent volunteers combined to realize improvements to the quality of life and cohesiveness of school communities throughout the district. The following brief accounts demonstrate clearly and powerfully how dedicated individuals worked together on school councils and as community volunteers to tackle a spectrum of complex issues and unanticipated challenges. Bradstreet Early-Childhood Learning Center With an average enrollment of 318 students in 16 half-day kindergarten classes, the center welcomed several children in 1996-1997 with severe allergies to peanut products--a unique situ- ation that gained national media attention. The entire school community--administrators, teachers, parents, and children collaborated to develop and implement a comprehensive plan to ensure the lowest possible risk for an allergic reaction from any child; other communities have subsequently sought the center's advice on de- velopment of similar plans. The center's 1996-1997 improvement plan focused on three principal areas: · Early Literacy. Strengthened by a grant from the North Andover Educational Foundation to support a "Book in a Bag" initiative, the early-literacy program encourages students to use a variety of emergent-reading materials in school and to bring home copies of books they have read in school to share with their families. · Enhancing assessment. The center's kindergarten-screening process was reviewed and revised. Collaborating with the school system's Language Arts Curriculum Development Committee, the staff made changes to the assessment process that will not only provide information to help plan more effective learning programs for each child, but also to gather important dala early on to enable ongoing assessment of the language-arts program itselfi · School culture. Parents and staff continued efforts to strengthen school culture in several ways, principally by focusing on safety-related issues. For example, the policy for dropping off and picking up students was reviewed and revised. In addition, playground safety received renewed emphasis. To strengthen efforts in teaching children to play cooperatively and resolve con- flicts, the staff developed and implemented a school-wide discipline plan that was taught in several classes and larger groups. Finally, parents and staff worked on ways to improve the sometimes difficult and important transition of students from kindergarten to first grade, culminating with a survey of first-grade parents and teachers about the success of the transition process. Atkinson Elementary School Building its sense of school community and working to implement newly revised curricular offerings, the school council felt it essential to begin the 1996-1997 year by establishing a "base line" with parents, students, and staff--a community-wide assessment of where the school stood, the direction in which it should be headed, and how individuals would work together to achieve goals. To gather information and make plans, the school conducted three major surveys--the first aimed at parents and teachers, the second aimed at fourth- and fifth-grade students as learning "customers" of the school, and the third focused exclusively on parents. Responses from an unusually high percentage of each group revealed a range of valuable per- ceptions. For example, as a result of the survey work, we learned of and responded to a substan- tial parent demand for courses in using technology. In addition, surveys indicated a strong perception of the school as being above average in academics, standards of behavior, and oppor- tunities for parent/student/teacher interaction. While parents also expressed a desire for smaller class sizes and greater school resources, the survey project served as a notable benchmark in assessing and enhancing the quality of the school community. As a result of opinion gathering and later communication, participation in school- wide activities showed a marked increase, Franklin Elementary School The school council met monthly to review school-wide policies and develop a school-improve- ment plan. Major goals of the improvement plan focused on · Curriculum and instruction. In accordance with systemwide initiatives, the group made imple- mentation of the new Curriculum Frameworks a primary goal. Parents worked closely with staff to understand the process and to bring curricular revisions to the classroom. · School culture. Development of a positive and supportive school culture was also a priority. Parents, students, and staff collaborated on a variety of events designed to reinforce the value of membership in the Franklin community. In addition, the school made a commitment to "The Responsive Classroom" program, emphasizing the importance of teaching a social as well as an academic curriculum. · Facility and finance. Several classrooms were modified to accommodate hearing-impaired stu- dents and a range of repairs and improvements were made to enhance the building. Kittredge Elementary School After a year in which almost the entire school community was reconstituted in system-wide redistricting, students returning in September 1996 had a far greater sense of community than they had just 12 months before. Building on this new sense of school ownership, the school council identified a need to ex- tend a sense of community and to strive for increased involvement of all Kittredge families. In addition, the council sought to support and further develop a school culture characterized by car- ing, enthusiasm for learning, willingness to take risks, open and honest communication, and a personal commitment to the school as a whole. As a result, the school increased its communication by creating a monthly newsletter. It also developed "Family Math Nights"--so well attended that the initial two-night program was later expanded to five nights to accommodate larger-than-expected demand. Academically, the council pledged to examine strategies that increased the quality of learn- ing. In conjunction with that initiative, staff in particular focused on developing and sharing ideas to improve the education process. With a grant from the North Andover Education Foundation, teachers in early grades created a special program centered on literacy. Like the Franklin School, Kittredge also made a commitment to "The Responsive Class- room"--a program that both staff and parents found particularly worthwhile. Annie L. Sargent Elementary School Beginning its second year of operation, the school strengthened its commitment to its "stu- dent outcomes"--or benchmarks for performance and evaluation developed during the 1995- 1996 year. School-improvement efforts focused on · Developing school culture. A focus group representing a cross-section of the school commu- nity created a list of six fundamental "beliefs," well worth repeating here: 1. All students can learn and must have equal opportunities to learn to their potential. 2. Learning takes place in all aspects of a child's world. 3. An effective home-school partnership is essential for truly successful learning. 4. Classrooms that foster an atmosphere of learning must be based on mutual trust and re- spect among its members--teachers, students, and parents. 5. Children learn best when expectations are clear, challenging and attainable. 6. Students must be active participants in the learning process. Implementing a technology plan. The council created a three-point strategy to address issues relating to appropriate software, staff training, and parent awareness. Curriculum assessment. The council's objective was to continue a two-year plan to train a rep- resentative group of teachers in use of rubrics and portfolios for student assessment---a con- cept that began to take root in the system during the 1995-1996 school year--and to implement a pilot program based on these techniques. The pilot program proved so successful that intro- ductory training for the remainder of the staff was planned to begin in September 1997. Success for all. The council sought to identify specific concerns about how well the full range of children's needs were being met in the heterogeneous classroom and to develop an action plan for addressing these concerns during the 1997-1998 school year. A subcommittee iden- tified three strategies to enable teachers to differentiate instruction to meet the needs of indi- vidual students: specific planning initiatives, varied instructional materials, and added human resources in the form of staff collaboration and the use of volunteers. Finally, the group cre- ated an action plan that formed the basis for a pilot program to begin in September 1997. Once again, success of this pilot program will have extended impact as a well tested approach to the needs of individual students takes hold throughout the school in future years. Thomson Elementary School The school council developed and implemented a four-phase '"ouilding initiative" for school improvement: · Building lnithztive I focused on enhancing community-wide communication. Moreover, par- ents and staff continued their efforts to use portfolios of student work in evaluation of progress. · BuiMing Initiative H centered on literacy and learning, including development of a cohesive program of literacy instruction in grades one through five and refinement of strategies to im- prove student learning. · Building Initiative III concentrated on use of computer technology to improve instruction. · Building Initiative IV sought to develop a long-range plan for instructional goals. Finally, the community took initial steps to prepare for its move t6 the new Thomson School, consu'uction of which began in November 1997. A subcommittee was formed to review class- room designs, color schemes, and furnishings for the new facility and to consider ways to assure that the new facility supports the program we want for our children. Middle School (Grades 6-8) In addition to continuation of the major renovation and construction project, several initiatives were undertaken, including implementation of An interdisciplinary approach to providing instruction in all three grades, extending opportu- nities for students to perceive and understand better the interconnectedness of all subjects. A program for sixth-graders arriving as new students from the system's five elementary schools. As a collaborative effort involving Middle School staff and North Andover's Youth Services program, the "Adventures Course" was designed to acquaint students with their new and larger school and to help them to get to know each other as members of individual Middle School teams. An improved advisory program geared to providing closer working relationships between stu- dents and teachers in small-group settings in which they collaborated on developing goals for academic success. In addition, the school council continued to play a significant role in the school's improve- merit plan, developing a brochure that set forth a vision statement for the entire school community. Of course, addition to and renovation of the building had an unavoidable impact on the qual- ity of school life. Much of the 1996-1997 school year was spent preparing for opening of the new section in February 1997-~adding 16 classwoms, a computer center, library/media center, office complex, and performance center. Construction was completed on time--no small achievement in an endeavor often plagued by delays under even the most favorable conditions. In this case, the project was required to proceed in conjunction with an even more important task education of the school's 931 students. Fortunately, due to careful planning and close at- tention to detail, we were able to avoid the construction pitfalls, educational disruptions, delays, and cost overruns that have beset such initiatives in other communities. As I write (in March 1998), constmction is within weeks of completion--and the entire town can be justifiably proud of the expanded facility and surrounding landscape. High School (Grades 9-12) Much of the 1996-1997 school year was dedicated to preparing for the New England Asso- ciation of Schools and Colleges' evaluation of our high school, scheduled to take place in No- vember 1997 as part of the 10-year reaccreditation process. Prior to that visit, the school community was required to undertake an extensive period of self study--encompassing curriculum, staffing, facilities, student services, financial support, administration, and school climate. Subsequently, the Association's Visiting Committee used the school's self study as a basis for its review, pro- riding recommendations for improvement and commendations for excellence in specific areas. (As the 1997-1998 school year progressed, the Visiting Committee's significant concerns about our "open concept" high school prompted the School Committee to make a strong and urgent rec- ommendation to town leaders for construction of a new, traditional-classroom facility.) The 1996-1997 self-study enhanced and furthered several ongoing initiatives, including · Developmentofanewhighschoolphilosophy. Aconsultativepmcessinvolvingtheentirefac- ulty, student body, and parents resulted in a comprehensive statement that outlined commit- ments, goals, expectations and responsibilities for every individual as a participant in the school community. In particular, the statement reinforced and emphasized high expectations of stu- dents in the areas of academic achievement, social awareness and responsibility, and personal growth. In addition, the document set forth a parallel set of expectations for the professional performance of administrators and staff as providers of the highest quality of secondary edu- cation. · Progress in incorporation of the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks into the programs of all departments. This major undertaking made significant advancement as departments re- viewed current practices and prepared for necessary improvements and modifications. · Enrichmentoftheacademiccurriculumthroughincreaseduseoftechnology, developmentof a second artist-in-residence program, and enhancement of the school-to-career program. · lmprovementoftheschoolclimateandphysicalenvironment. Toensurethattheschoolinten- sifted its focus on learning, a new attendance policy was implemented. Early results indicate a marked improvement. Moreover, several physical improvements to the facility--including locker replacement to ensure that students have safe and secure storage space--contributed to making the building a better place in which to learn. Even so, the facility continues to be plagued by significant drawbacks, including lack of cost-effective heating/ventilation and absence of traditional and quiet classroom spaces. Examination of the leveling structure of courses. The school council conducted an extensive review of how courses are "leveled" by degree of difficulty. Data indicate that grade inflation and college expectations may contribute to students' enrollment in courses at higher-than- appropriate levels. However, data also show that they can and do take courses at different lev- els and move up or down as needed during the year or at the beginning of a new year. Overall, our high-school students do well academically, as indicated by their scores on nation- ally standardized tests. More significant, they continue to work toward continuing education, with more than 85 percent choosing to attend college after graduation. Inter-Scholastic Athletics North Andover has long had a significant interest in school sports. Unfortunately, fmancial constraints during the early 1990s led to painful but necessary cutbacks. As a result, citizens ral- lied to maintain our public-school athletic program by contributing private funds and by comply- lng with a schedule of user fees for students participating in school sports. Restoration of a portion of the physical-education budget in 1996-1997 relieved the dedicated members of the North Andover Athletic Association of the need to supplement the school department's budget for the first time since 1990-1991. (As the 1997-1998 school year began, further restoration of the budget eliminated athletic user fee~la concern for many who keenly perceived the need for equal access to all public-education offerings.) Several individual accomplishments during the 1996-1997 school year are worth noting. The town produced a Cape Ann League Runner of the Year and captured the championship at the league meet. In addition, the Boston Globe named a North Andover student as Gymnast of the Year; the Massachusetts Basketball Coaches' Association selected one of our students for Academic All- State Honors; and a member of our wrestling team captured both Sectional and State wrestling titles. Conclusion For generations, our elders and teachers have encouraged each of us to make our marks on the world by endeavoring to leave our communities in better shape than that in which we found them. Looking back over the last 11-1/2 years, I can say with conviction that North Andover's public-school program has made a lot of progress since January 1987---due in no small part to the dedication of an exceptional and dedicated staff and a host of volunteers from all quarters of the community. It has been both a pleasure and a privilege to work with citizens who care as deeply about education as so many do here in North Andover. Three areas of endeavor stand out as high points of my tenure as superintendent. First, we can all be proud of the permanent gains the town has made by construction of the new Annie L. Sargent Elementary School, by expansion and renovation of the Middle School, and by undertaking to build a new Thomson School. Second, commitment to increased use of technology in education and dedication to success for all students have been commendable and long-term achievements. Finally, the efforts of the professional staff to step up to the challenges of completely rewriting the system's curriculum to achieve "Success For All" in response to the Education Reform Act is a hallmark of a very good--and caring--school system. Enhancement of the system's operating budget--measured with respect to the "foundation budget" as required by the Massachusetts Education Reform Act of 1993--is especially noteworthy at a time when school budgets of many other growing communities in our area have lost ground with respect to the Education Reform "foundation" yardstick. Even so, it troubles me greatly that substantial long-term concerns remain unaddressed---in particular the system's continued reliance on portable classrooms and lack of consensus about repairing or replacing our open-concept high school--although the needs and solutions have long since been identified. Moreover, I remain deeply concerned that the gains in the quality of our public-education program that have been achieved by long and hard work over the last decade could be swept away in minutes by the rising tide of financial troubles the town faces as the 1998-1999 year approaches. This is especially disappointing in view of the work the town's Finance Committee completed during the 1995-1996 year that clearly and completely defined the scope and magnitude of our long-term, townwide, and significant financial problem---a problem only partially addressed last year. I have often summarized our school system as one which achieves student performance re- sults which are well above average at a cost which is well below average. Credit our students and teachers for that important value. It is also accurate to note that we are a community with an above- average capacity to pay for the services we require (educating our students is my area of concern), and a below-average effort to do so. That condition has existed for many years. I urge you not to permit any North Andover student to be short-changed by that condition. As I conclude my last report to you, I thank you for the opportunity I have had to be your Superintendent and to work with our staff on behalf of the community's young people. I leave as I arrived, believing that this work is exceptionally important to our students, our community and our country. I wish to call your attention to the untiring efforts of so many, especially your School Com- mittee, who give so much of themselves to these efforts. With your help, they, assisted by our faculty and staff, will continue to strive for the success of every one of our students. GEORGE I. BLAISDELL SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS Fiscal Year 1 gg7 Adopted Budget and Expenditures and Encumbrances Department Operating Operating Departmental Expenses Expenses Tm'nbacks/ Budget Expended Balance O~ER~. GOVER~MF~T Moderator 0.00 Town Manager 87,578.27 (87,578.27) 0.00 Finan~ Committee 7,738,65 (7,738.65) 0.00 Accountant 4,205.41 (4,205.41) 0.00 Assessors 91,900.48 (91,900.48) 0.00 Treasurer/Collector 142,078.77 (142,078.77) 0.00 Audit 16,500.00 (16,500.00) 0.00 Town Counsel 31,269.88 (31,269.88) 0.00 Special Legal Services 97,727.28 (97,727.28) 0.00 Personnel 22,735.88 (21,697.15) 1,038.73 Town Clerk 53,838.82 (53,838.82) 0.00 Conservation Commission 5,067.83 (5,067.83) 0.00 Community Development 12,600.07 (12,600.07) 0.00 Planning Board 4,214.42 (4,214.42) 0.00 Zoning Board of Appeals 1,228.93 (1,225.63) 3.30 Industrial Development Corem 2,400.00 (2,400.00) 0.00 Building 4,587.56 (4,587.56) 0.00 Animal Inspector 0.00 Animal Control 0.00 Weights and Measures 0.00 0.00 0.00 Collective Bargaining COLA Subtotal 585,672.25 (584,630.22) 1,042.03 PUBLIC SAFetY Police 250,623.60 (231,285.45) 19,338.15 Fire 108,839A6 (108,839.46) 0.00 Emergency Management 5,216.84 (5,216.84) 0.00 Subtotal 364,679.90 (345,341.75) 19,338.15 EDUCATION N.A. Public Schools School Building Committee Technical HS Assessment Subtotal 4,712,998.20 (4,712,998.20) 0.00 8,441.00 (6,197.82) 2,243.18 85,153.00 (85,153.00) 0.00 4,806,592.20 (4,804,349.02) 2,243.18 Department PvBtac WORKS Building Maintenance Administration/Engineering Streets Snow Removal Solid Waste Gl,SD Sewer Water Vehicle Maintenance Graves Registration Parks and Grounds Subtotal Hl.rt~N SERVICE Health Council on Aging Youth Services Veteran's Benefits Veteran's Quarters Stevens Library Recreation Historical Commission Patriotic Celebrations Subtotal F~XED COSTS Long Term Debt-Principal Shorl Term Payoff Interest on Long Term Debt Interest on Short Term Debt Bond Issue Expense Retirement Assessment Workers comp Expense Unemployment Insurance Group Health Insurance Liability Insurance Subtotal Operating Expenses Budget 123,969.27 9,891.96 203,263.58 251,502.03 797,235.00 957,586.00 136,701.25 412,594.93 138,839.52 1,699.95 26,423.69 3,059,707.18 13,289.74 18,716.00 13,115.00 3,452.99 1,2O0.00 145,962.00 9,000.00 1,363.13 1,598.51 207,697.37 2,159,182.59 868,O00.00 1,333,804.58 1,044,555.00 70,000.00 2,664,816.00 271,718.00 8,412,076.17 Operating Expenses Expended (119,481.16) (9,891.96) (203,263.58) (251,502.03) (797,235.00) (954,650.39) (133,184.37) (412,112.46) (138,839.52) (1,699.95) (26,423.69) O,048,284.11) (13,289.74) (18,715.25) (12,227.30) (1,200.00) (145,177.24) (4,874.37) (1,363.13) (1,598.51) (198,445.54) (2,159,182.59) (868,O00.O0) (1,333,804.59) (1,042,750.16) (47,686.72) (2,714,143.66) (269,549.48) ($,43S,117.20) Departmental Turnbacks/ Balance 4,488.11 0.O0 0.0O 0.00 0.0O 2,935.61 3,516.88 482.47 0.00 0.0O 0~0O 11,423.07 0.00 0.75 887.70 3,452.99 0.00 784.76 4,125.63 0.O0 0.0O 9,251.83 0.O0 0.0O 0.00 (0.01) 1,804.84 22,313~28 0.00 0.O0 0.0O (49,327.66) 2,168.52 (23,041.03) TOTAL GENERAL ~0ND OPERATING Bt~r - Ex~s~s 17,436,425.07 (17,416,167.84) 20,257.23 Department Personnel Services Budget Personnel Services Expended Depar~ental Turnbacks/ Balance Moderator Town Manager Finance Committee Accountant Assessors Treasurer/Collector Audit Town Counsel Special Legal Services Personnel Town Clerk Conservation Commission Community Development Planning Board Zoning Board of Appeals Industrial Development Corem Building Animal Inspector Animal Control Weights and Measures Collective Bargaining COLA Subtotal PtmLIC SAF~=r¥ Police Fire Emergency Managenmnt Subtotal EDUCATION N,A, Public Schools School Building Committee Techncial HS Assessment Subtotal 200.00 159,462.22 98,145.72 137,835.37 208,968.41 35,611.41 92,142.50 57,451.90 76,880.77 61,146.97 13,129.89 152,662.54 3,600.00 2,590.00 75,256.75 1,175,084.45 1,944,126.53 2,226,572.19 4,275.96 4,174,974.68 14,875,750.80 14,875,750.80 (150.00) (158,853.60) (95,648.34) (134,880.99) (2Ol,406.94) (35,124.93) (89,~~. .21) (56,960.31) (74,125.99) (61,056.03) (12,826.34) (152,639.10) (3,600.OO) (2,587.56) (75,256.?5) (1,154,561.09) (1,944,126.53) (2,225,507.92) (4,275.96) (4,173,910.41) (14,868,815.82) 50.00 608.62 0.00 2,497.38 2,954.38 7,561.47 0.00 0.00 0.00 486.48 2,698.29 491.59 2,754.78 303.55 0.00 23.44 0.00 0.00 2.44 0.00 2,0,523.36 0.00 1,064.27 O.OO 1,064.27 0.00 6,934.98 O.OO 0.00 6,934.98 Department Personnel Services Budget Personnel Services Expended Departmental Turnbacks/ Balance P~uc Wombs Building Maintenance Administration/Engineering Streets Snow Removal Solid Waste GLSD Sewer Water Vehicle Maintenance Graves Registration Parks and Grounds Subtotal 27,858.32 231,676.85 153,987.51 46,500.00 207,029.35 206,117.21 326,781.73 102,805.07 204,796.06 1,~07,9S2.10 HUMAN SERVICES Health Council on Aging Youth Services Veteran's Benefits Veteran's Quarters Stevens Library Recreation Historical Commission Patriotic Celebrations Subtotal 92,082.84 114,523.41 70,969.20 327,216.34 17,380.00 622,171.79 Fix~o CosTs Long Term Debt-Principal Short Term Payoff Interest on Long Term Debt Interest on Short Term Debt Bond Issue Expense Retirement Assessment Workers comp Expense Unemployment Insurance Group Health Insurance Liability Insurance 1,180,439.00 13,000.00 22,000.00 (27,241.39) (232,294.59) (153,987.51) (46,492.39) (207,019.35) (206,117.21) (326,781.73) (102,805.07) (400.00) (180,941.06) (1,484,080.30) (91,735.79) (114,523.41) (70,969.20) (318,347.93) (17,370.00) ( 612,946.33) (1,180,438.63) (11,810.84) (24,429.30) Subtotal 1~215,439.00 (1,216,678.77) Total General Fund Operating Budget - Salaries 23,571,372.82 (23,510,992.72) 616.93 (617.74) 0.00 7.61 10.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 23,855.00 23,871.80 0.00 347.05 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 8,868.41 10.00 0.00 0.00 9,225.46 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.37 1,189.16 (2,429.30) 0.00 0.00 0.00 (1,239.77) 60,380.10 General Fund Revenue P~rsonal Prol~rty 1997 Prior years Real Estate 1997 1996 Prior ye~ Rollback Taxes Farm Animal Excise Forest Products Tax Water Lien Iht Add to Taxes Rent-Agricultural Use Sewer Lieus 1997 1996 1995 Sewer Assessments 1997 1996 Water Assessments Water Liens 1997 1996 1995 Committed Interest Traffic Light Betterment Motor Vehicle Excise 1997 1996 1995 Pr/or Years Motor Veh Excise Clear Fee Payment in Lieu of taxes Tax Title Water Rates Wa~er Hookups Water/Mair~Construction Sewer Rates Water/Sewer Lien Release Betten~ent Pre-Assessment Brentwood Ave Phase H Bonnylane Phase Sewer Rate Relief Fund Interest Property Taxes Tax Lien Certificates 716,269,13 (428.28) 24,171,125.64 431,805.57 13o5.09 8,216.26 857.22 163.70 14,424.27 106,323.48 6,071.30 201.00 67,267.61 5,153.00 1,022.01 65,755.22 15,297.39 258.25 702.18 17,850.79 1,883,922.31 404,747.78 21,852.68 8,740.82 50,158.00 22,509.57 217,499.33 3,179,822.60 225,717.92 10,925.03 1,537,903.92 194.00 19,457.22 26,978.20 48,865.00 95,905.24 56,868.29 31,497.75 Subtotals 715,840.85 24,604,336.30 8,216.26 857.22 163.70 14,424.27 240.00 112,595.78 72,420.61 1,022.01 81,310.86 702.18 17,850.79 2,319,263.59 50,158.00 22,509.57 217,499.33 3,416,465.55 1,537,903.92 194.00 46,435.42 48,865.00 152,773.53 31,497.75 STA~ Rr~cm~s Loss of tax - veterans benefit Elderly Abatements Reimbm'sement for Blind Loss of Tax Elderly Persons Tuition of State Wards School Aid GL Cb 70 Trans of Pupils Ch 71 Police Career Incentive School Construct SBAB reimburse Veterans Benefits Ch 115.S.6 Local Aid Additional Assistance Lottery Aid Highway Fund State Owned Land Extended Polling Hours DEPARTMENTAL RECEIPTS Town Manager/Selectmen Cable Fees Liquor Licenses Other Alcohol Licenses Food Licenses Miscellaneous Licenses Treasurer/Collector Copy Machine Receipts Demand/Bad Check Charge Investment Interest D&F Betterment Repayment Town Acct Misc Revenue Assessor's Dept Fees Town Clerk Fees Conservation Fees Planning Board Filing Fees Board of Appeals Fe~s Police Deparunent Dog Fees Police 10% Administrative Fees Miscellaneous Revenue Parking Fines Court Fines Fire Depa~hnent Ambulance Service Permits Building Depmiment Inspection Fees Plumbing Fees Electrical Fees Gas permits Civil Defense Reimburse 4,469.00 14,212.00 1,750.00 43,172.00 16,549.00 2,163,587.00 215,900.00 85,654.00 1,449.00 1,175,014.00 130,989.00 61,918.00 1,634.00 3,778.50 42,300.00 1,860.00 2,300.00 5,260.00 136.50 950.00 655,480.29 67,100.00 240.00 213.06 26,554.07 4,047.25 72,915.52 1,106.68 290.00 22,458.75 1,768.54 8,113.00 90,870.00 248,818.87 29,438.00 269,740.33 53,912.75 83,557.50 19,357.00 1,921.00 607,534.00 151,695.00 4,675,526.00 55,498.50 723,666.79 240.00 213.06 26,554.07 4,047.25 72,915.52 1,106.68 123,500.29 278,256.87 426,567.58 1,921.00 School Department Rental Fees Miscellaneous Medicare Reimbursement Department of Public Works Public Works Fees Misc. Water Dept. Trash - NESWC Recycling Fees Bathing Beach Receipts Health Depa~hnent Fees Library Fines Veterans Services · nt~l General Fund Receipts SPeCIaL l~ve~ Ft~os Ch. 90 State Highway School Lunch Program Receipts Federal Aid Reimburse State Aid Reimburse Earnings on Investments Federal Home Investment Program Federal Home Investment Income School Department Athletic Revolv'mg Pt'c-School Shakespeare/Music Special Needs Quota After School Program Alternative High School Community Events Elementary Violence Technology Grant PL 94-142 Safe Schools In service Frameworks Chapter I Block Grant Early childhood lileracy SPED Early Childhood Math and Science Math and Science Eisenhower Chapter II Block Grant Health Protection Drug Free Schools Federal Energy Grant 7,935.0O 6,943.31 45,532.00 48.00 9,666.60 871,937.53 26,420.00 31,518.25 57,116.80 9,437.12 1,350.47 974,482.50 496,672.55 105,461.51 16,247.35 5,292.25 103,832.49 48,898.40 9,842.00 858.60 5,529.15 700.00 36~,693.70 14,640.00 116,220.00 186,051.00 2,000.00 11,765.00 111,111.00 6,500.00 23,085.00 721 .(lO 10,251.00 8,050.00 86,399.00 17,799.00 13,041.00 60,410.31 939,590.38 57, I 16.80 9,437.12 1350.47 974,482.50 623,673.66 7.45 1,141,987.34 40,931,46~.18 Other Grants Arts Council Grant Community Policing COPS Grant Fire Education Trailer Health Title V grant Council on Aging Expansion Osgood & Andover MA Highway Library Furniture Fixture Equipment Library State Aid Police Dare grant Council on Aging Elder Affairs Interest Earned-G-rants Boat Ramp DH Sutton Highway Grant Osgoed and Andover Iht Revolving Funds Osgood Hill Council On Aging DPW Recycling Bins Youth Service Revolving Health Dept Training Police Insurance Damage Reimb Ambuiance--Reserve from Fees Conservation Wetland Fees DPW Highway Damage Reimburse School--Damage Reimbursements DONATIONS Veterans Graves Regisa'ation Conservation Trail Building Conservation Hazardous Cleanup Police-General Donations Police-Dare Program Polic¢-Commu~ty Policing Fire Educational Trailer Council On Aging Fundraising Council on Aging Nulrifion Program Council on Aging Education Fund Council on Aging Expansion Fund Council on Aging Spring Water Recreation Council Fourth of July Youth Services-Youth Lacrosse Youth Services-Community Center Sewer Infiltration Mitigation Total Special Revenue Funds 8,341.58 40,000.00 16,952.00 5,000.00 18,000.00 18,000.00 995,000.00 292.60 22,114.67 25,000.00 15,575.00 490.03 7,019.61 12,280.40 250,003.54 7,108.14 789.00 57,732.00 180.00 2,099.18 23,000.00 18,957.10 22,264.24 337.20 125.00 235.00 7,278.21 1,726.26 4,195.00 1,450.00 4,043.35 8,813.58 725.00 396.00 45,819.43 386.00 950.00 4,424.00 14,746.00 7,318.50 8,448.00 1,164,275.85 19,790.04 315,812.68 2,099.18 23,000.00 18,957.10 22,264.24 337.20 125.00 7,513.21 7,371.26 4,043.35 56,140.01 950.00 4,424.00 22,064.50 8,448.00 4,417,766,57 CAPITAL PROJECI~ School Capital Projects State Grant-Underground Storage Tank Bond Proceeds- Roof Replacement Bond Proceeds-ADA Phase II Bond Proceeds-Franklin Window Replace Bond Proceeds-Fire Alarm Bond Proceeds-Replace Windows Bond Proceeds-Science Labs Bond Proceeds-Technology Equip Bond Proceeds-Heating System Bond Proceeds-Repair Roofs Bond Proceeds-Roof Replacement Bond Proceeds-ADA Phase I Short Term Debt Payoff-Lockers Short Term Debt Payoff-Underground Tank Short Term Debt-Payoff-Chairlift Short Term Debt Payoff-Tech Equipment Short Term Debt Payoff-Hayes Floodlights Short Term Debt Payoff-Tech Equipment Short Term Debt Payoff-Drainage Bond Proceeds-Elementary School Short Term Debt Payoff-Elementary School Town Capital Projects State Grant Revenue-Water Feedline Bond Proceeds-Water Feedline Bond Proceeds-Computer System Short Term Debt Payoff-Pump Station Impr Bond Proceeds-Ozone Generator Bond Proceeds-Water Main Rehab Short Term Debt Payoff-Ozone Generator Short Term Debt Payoff-Water Supply Short Term Debt Payoff-Engineering Water Bond Proceeds-Sidewalks ADA crossing Bond Proceeds-Cyr Recreation Bldg Bond Proceeds-Playfields Townwide Short Term Debt Payoff-Cyr Dog Pound Grant Revenue-MA Water pollution Abate Total Capital Project Revenue Contributions and donations Conservation Trust Fund Stabilization Fund Interest Income Law Enforcement Trust Total Trust Funds Total Other Funds 17,770.00 202,500.00 213,100.00 137,500.00 109,096.43 82,750.00 75,000.00 266,460.00 220,000.00 352,000.00 78,903.57 189,400.00 47,000.00 14,000.00 40,000.00 55,000.00 200,000.00 37,000.00 7,820,000.00 111,462.00 608,790.00 296,000.00 30,000.00 555,000.00 750,000.00 95,000.00 25,0O0,00 35,000.00 200,000.00 100,000.00 91,500.00 10,000.00 190,300.00 5,000.00 516.11 111.78 2,905.51 3,719.40 180,000.00 3,098,052.00 10,437,480.00 13~35,532.00 12,252.80 17,96S~S137 Grand total Receipts Year Ending 1997 AGF~C¥ FY-SDS Police Outside Detail Fire Outside Detail Planning Depattulcnt Bonds & Esrcows Meal Tax-State of MA Fish/Wildlife Deputy Collector Fees Tolal Ageney Receipts 343,836.38 17,488.49 3,982,104.12 957.42 12,778.50 63,926.91 Special Education Expenditures 2000 INSTRUCTIONS 2100 SUPERVISION 2300 TEACHING 2400 ~,XT/T~CHNOLOGY 2600 AUDIO VISUAL 2700 GUIDANCE 2800 PSYCH SERV TOTAL 2O00 SERIES 3000 OTl-fg.R SERVICES 3300 TRANSPORTATION TOTAL 3000 SERII~.S 1997 SPED EXP 16,882.23 2,962.56 5,777.35 1,639.00 5,668.68 21,904.61 .S4.,8..M.43 469,955.99 469,95S.99 4000 OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE 4210 EQUIPMENT REPAIR 4,522.08 TOTAL 4000 SERIES 4,.q22.08 7000 FIXED ASSETS 730O NEW EQUIPMENT TOTAL 7000 SERIES 1997 SPED SALARY TOTAL 9000 OTHER DISTRICTS 9100 TUITIONS 9400 COLLABOR.TUITIONS 9410 SPECIAL SERV TOTAL 9000 SER r~.~ 123,561.72 1,803,287.58 1,926,84930 140,443,95 1,806,250.14 5,777.35 1,639.00 5,668.68 21;904.61 1,981,683.73 GRAND TOTALS 469,955.99 4,522.08 4,522.oa 3,158.09 3,188.09 3,158.09 3,158.09 646,686.28 394,397.36 334,044.60 1,375,128.24 1,907,S98.83 L926,849.~o 646,686.28 394,397.36 334,044.60 1,375,128.24 $,sz4,44s.13 Grants--July I 1996-June 30, 1997 GRANT NAME & CODE BAL BAL 7/1196 INCOME EXPENSES 6/30/97 HEALTH PROTECTION 349-105-7 SMOKING CESSATION 331-139-7 DRUG FREE 378-050-7 SAFE SCHOOLS 532~005-7 ELEM.VIOLENCE CURRICULUM STUDY 504-145-7 FRAMEWORKS 575-034~7 EARLY INTER.LITERACY BLOCK GRANT 302-149-7 TITLE VI EISENttOWER GRANT 303-140-7 TEACHER TRAIN MATH/SCI TECHNOLOGY 603-060-7 IT BOND TECHNOLOGY TITLE 1 305-106-7 TITLE 1 DISTRIBUTION SPECIAL EDUCATION 262-131-7 SPED EARLY CHILDH'D 240-142-7 SPED 94-142 TOTAL 4,061.00 86,399.00 86,399.00 -- 17,799.00 18,028.06 3,831.94 2,000.00 2,000.00 -- 14,640.00 14,640.00 -- 11,765.00 11,209.50 555.50 6,500.00 6,500.00 -- 8,050.00 6,506.26 1,543.74 10,251.00 3,613.40 6,637.60 116,220.00 36,829.23 79,390.77 9,337.00 111,374.00 106,399.34 14,311.66 13,398.00 23,735.00 21,874.00 1,861.00 195,305.00 174,143.07 21,161.93 604,038.00 617,436.00 488,141.86 129,294.14 Revolving Accounts 7/1~6 ATHLETICS 59,893.54 COMMUNITY SCHOOLS 42~682.08 SCHOOL INSURANCE 12,195.98 PRESCHOOL 64,796.07 G]FFS & DONATIONS :5,272.62 ALTERNATIV~ HS -- TOTALS 184,840.29 DEPOSITS RET. Y/E BAL CHF~CKS 1997 103,957.59 355,572.18 337.20 50,114.40 18,889.25 700.00 529,~70.62 48,211.89 297,197.00 10,000.00 76,319.96 13,285.58 44S,014.~,3 125.00 115,514.24 101,057.26 2,533.18 1,091.00 37,499.51 10,876.29 7OO.OO Enrollment on October 1 Grade 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 Pre-K 15 Kindergarten 330 304 343 334 333 292 Pre-lst 27 31 46 1 337 367 385 364 327 304 2 370 390 369 327 312 303 3 390 365 330 327 309 307 4 368 340 327 317 309 272 5 349 325 329 313 271 284 IntegratedPre-School 72 71 70 56 60 35 Total Kind. & Elem. 2216 2162 2153 2065 1952 1858 6 333 336 307 270 290 242 7 345 310 279 277 244 253 8 314 285 280 247 257 282 Total Middle School 992 931 866 794 791 777 9 231 240 207 213 218 214 10 231 210 225 202 220 205 11 207 226 200 · 220 198 196 12 210 198 223 199 193 220 Total High School 879 874 855 834 829 835 TolalEm-ollment 4087 3967 3874 3693 3572 3470 Age of Admittance Children entering Kindergarten must be 5 years of age on or before August 31 of the entrance year. Children entering the first grade must be 6 years of age on or before August 31 of the entrance year. Any request for an exception to the established entrance age for the first grade must be sub- mitted to the School Committee' for consideration prior to April 30. No School Announcements Radio Broadcasts: Stations WCCM, WLLH, WBZ, and WRKO TV: Channels 4, 5, and 7, and local channel 98. Special Town Meeting--October 2g, 1 cjo SUMMARY OF ACTIONS TAKEN Article One--The Report of the Financial Planning Initiative to Special Town Meeting was ac- cepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Two--The Status of the Master Plan Report was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Three--The amendment of Chapter 2, Section 59-2 of the General Bylaws to change the quorum requirement for Town Meeting was passed as amended by a vote of YES--167 NO--152. Article Four--Fiscal year 1997 budget transfers as printed in the Wanant were passed by a Ma- jority Vote. Article Five--Amhitectuml Fees for Schools in an amount of $275,000 to be used at the direc- tion of the School Building Committee was passed by a Majority Vote. Article Six--The authorization to accept sewer system pumping stations at variouys locations was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Seven-- The road acceptance of Hawthorne Place as a Public Way formerly known as Dryad Place was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Eight--The acceptance of Brewstex Stre~ as a public way was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Nine--The acceptance of poffiens of Blue Ridge Road, South Bradford Street and Lancaster Road in its entirety was passed by a Majority Vote. Article Ten--The appropriation of $110,131 for MOL Chapter 90 Road Repairs in anticipation of State reimbursement under Chapter 44, Section 6A was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Eleven--The agreement to implement the NESWC agtc, ement was passed as amended by a Majority Vote. Article Twelve--The amendment of the General Appropriation Article as previously voted under Article 7 1996 Annual Town Meeting was passed as amended by a Majority Vote. Article Thirteen--The authorization to enter into an intermunicipal agreemem for consulting and support services for the Town's Computerized Assessment System was accepted by Unani- mous Vote. Article Fourteen--The amendment of Chapter 7 of the General Bylaws to include a dog waste disposal bylaw. A vote of No Action was passed unanimously. Article Fifteen--The Proposed Temporary Handicapped Permit Program was accepted by Unani- mous Vote. Article Sixteen--The Amendment to the Town Code to add a New Chapter 137 - Noise Control Bylaw was defeated because of lack of a unanimous vote under the "No Quorum" rule. Article Seventeen--The introduction of Titlve V borrowing authorization by the Board of Health. A vote of No Action was passed unanimously. Article Eighteen--Amendment to Chapter 122 of the town Code regarding sale of Christmas Trees was defeated because of lack of a unanimous vote under the "No Quorum" role. Annual Town Meeting--May 12, 1997 Summary of Actions Taken Article One--Aunual Town results reported by Town Clerk Joyce A. Bmdshaw and accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Two--Report of Receipts and Expenditures as presented in 1996 Annual Town Report accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Three---Compensation of Elected Officials accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article FourwReport of Special Committees - Master Plan Report acceptexl by Unanimous Vote. Article Fire--Authorization to transfer unexpended funds by the Director of Administration and Finance as presented in the Warrant accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article S/x--Fiscal year budget transfer buy the Director of Administration and Finance as presented in the Warrant accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Seven--Annual Appropriation Article as presented in the Supplemental Information to Town Meeting was accepted by Majority Vote with no Amendments. Article Eight---Capital Improvement Plan was accepted with no Amendments by a two-thirds vote declared by the Moderator. Article Nine Construction of a new Thomson Elementary School passed by a two-thirds vote declared by the Moderator. Article Ten--Authorization of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 - Highway Funds ac- cepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Eleven--Authorization to amend various formerly voted borrowing articles by the Director of Administration and Finance was passed by a two-thirds vote as declared by the Mod- erator. Article Twelve~The establishment of a Reserve Fund in the amount of $75,000 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Thirteen--The authorization of the Town Manager with the approval of the Board of Selectmen was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Fourteen--The funding of the Wetlands Filing Fees Account in the amount of $14,000 and $8,00 to be used by the conservation Commission was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Fifteen--The annual authorization to Operate Osgood Hill Conference Center was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Sixteen--The establishment of a seven member Board of Trustees of the Stevens Es- tate at Osgood Hill to oversee and manage the center was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Seventeen--The General Appropriation Article for Fiscal Year 1997 as printexl in the Warrant was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Eighteen--The adoption of the Noncriminal disposition method of violations as it re- lates to applicable Boar of Health Regulations was passed by a clear majority vote. Article Nineteen--The adoption ufa Septic Management Program to establish a loan process for septic system issues for property and study was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Twenty The authorization to file Special Legislation or home role amendment to in- crease the number of North Andover GLSD representatives was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Twenty-one--The authorization of the Board of Selectmen to execute an inter-municipal agreement between the Town of Andover and North Andover for the purpose of additional water supply was accepted by Unanimous Vote, Article Twenty-two The acceptance of the gift of land fromThe Community Center, Inc. for the site of the Joseph N. Hermann Youth Center was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Twenty-three--The authorization to. establish a Special Industrial Assessment District by the board of Selectmen was passed by a clear Majority Vote. Article Twenty-four--The petition to amend the Charter to cahnge the date of the Annual Town Election from the first Monday in March to the first Tuesday in March was accepted by Unani- mous Vote. Article Twenty-five--The amendment of the vote of Town Meeting of May 1, 1995 to autho- rize the Construction of a Youth Center at 400 Osgood Street to allow location change to 33 Johnson Street for a Youth Center Facility was passed by a vote of YES--329 NO~51. Article Twenty-six--The appropriation of an additional $525,000 by borrowing as passed by a vote of YES--273 NO 46. Article Twenty-seven--The authorization of the School Department to enter into a lease with the ltistofieal Society for the use of the former Textile Museum was passed by a clear Majority Vote. Article Twenty-eight--The amendment of the Town Code for a new Noise Control Bylaw was defeated. Article Twenty-nine--The amendment to the Zoning Bylaw changes to Table 1 Table 2 - Di- mensional Requirements was passed by a two-third Vote Declared by the moderator. Article Thiny~The amendment to the Zoning Bylaw Section 8.1 for off street parking as passed by a two-thirds vote declared by the Moderator. Article Thirty-one--The acceptance of the continuation of Old Cart Way. Avote of No Action was passed Unanimously. Article Th/ny-two---The acceptance of Nadine Lane. A vote of No Action was passed Unanimously. Article Thirty-three--The acceptance of White Birch Lane. A vote of No Action was passed Unanimously. Article Thirty-four--The acceptance of Cherise Circle. A vote of No Action was passed Unani- mously. Article Thirty-five--The acceptance of a gift of land at Lot 124 Hidden Court and Lot 151 Blue Ridge Road was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Thirty-six--The acceptance of Hickory Hill Road was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Thirty-seven--The acceptance of M.G.L. Chapter 39, Section 9 allowing the Town Moderator to take all votes requiring a two-thirds majority in the same manner and other votes are taken was passed by a vote of YES 62 NO~2. Article Thirty-eight--The authorization of the expenditure of funds in the amount of $10,000 for repairs to letwood street was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Thirty-nine--The amendment of the Zoning Map from R6 to GB on Turnpike Street was passed by a Unanimous Vote to refer this Article back to the Planning Board for study. Article Forty--The amendment to the zoning map for 20 Baldwin Street from (iB to R4 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Forty-one--A Citizen Petition for a Conservation Restriction for Osgood Hill was defeated by a vote of YES--50 NO---130. Article Forty-two Citizen Petition for a Conservation restriction of the property known as the Town Farm was passed by a clear majority vote as amended. MELANSON HEATH ~ COMPANY, PC CERTIFIED PUBLIC ,~CCOUNTANTS ~ ~ Trafalgar Square Naslma, NH o~o65- ~974 Tel (6o~) 88~- ~ ~ ~ ~ · F~ (6o~) 88~.9456 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT To the Board of Selectmen Town of North Andover, Massachusetts We have audited the accompanying general purpose financial statements of the Town of North Andov'er, Massachusetts as of June 30, 1997 and for the year then ended. These general purpose financial statements are the responsibility of the Town of North Andover's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these general purpose financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the general purpose financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence sup- porting the amounts and disclosures in the general purpose financial statements. An audit atso includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall general purpose financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. The financia~ statements referred to above do not include the General Fixed Asset Group of Accounts, as required by generally accepted accounting principles. The amount that should be recorded in the General Fixed Assets Account Group has not been determined. In our opinion, except for the effects of the item described in the third paragraph, the general purpose financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all matedal respects, the financial position of the Town of North Andover, Massachusetts, as of June 30, 1997 and the results of its operations for the year then ended in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Nashua, New Hampshire January'30, 1998 -1- TOWN OF NORTH ANDOVER, MASSACHUSETTS Statement qf Revenues and Other Sources, and Expenditures and Otl~er Uses - Budget and Actual - General Fund For the Year Ended June 30, 1997 Revenues and Other Sources: Property taxes Excise taxes Charges for service Interest penalties and other Licenses, permits and fees Intergovernmental Interest income Departmental and other Other sources Total Revenues and Other Sources Expenditures and Other Uses: General government Public safety Education Public works Fixed expenses Intergovernmental Other uses Total Expenditures and Other Uses Excess (deficiency) of revenues and other sources over expenditures and other uses Budqet _Actual Vadance Favorable (Unfavorable) $ 25,321,3(]6 $ 25,321,306 $ 2,222, 000 2,364,978 142,978 5,938,568 5,343,107 (595,481) 428,670 152,773 (275,897) 1,206,300 829,983 (376,317) 4,696,924 4,694,275 (2,649) 230,000 655,480 425,480 1,324,429 1,445,762 121,333 640,000 640,000 42,008,197 41,447,664 (560,533) 3,814,506 3,773,486 4,539,655 4,519,253 19,673,900 19,656,965 4,567,659 4,532,364 8,414,078 8,459,432 506,552 521,098 491,847 491,847 42,008,197 41,964,445 $ 41,020 2(3,402 6,935 35,295 (45,354) (14,54 ) 43,752 (516,781) See accompanying notes to financial statements. TOV',~I OF NORTH ANDOVER. MA$.SACHUSE'I-;'$ Statement of Revenues. Expenses ~and Ct~anges in Fund Balance Nonexpendalole Trust Funds For the Year Ended June 30. 1997 Revenues: Intemst Contributions To~lRevenue Other Total Expenses Operating Income Net Income Fund Balance. beginning Fund Balance. ending $ 2.892 4.416 7,308 2.000 2.000 5.308 5.308 110.414 $ 115.722 See accompanying notes to financial statements. -5- Town of North Andover Notes to General Purpose Financial Statements 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies The accounting policies of the Town of North Andover (the Town) conform to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) as applicable to govern- mental units, except as indicated in Note 2. The following is a summary of the more significant policies: A. Reportinq Entity The government is a municipal corporation governed by an elected Board of Selectmen. As required by generally accepted accounting principles, these financial statements present the government and applicable com- ponent units for which the government is considered to be financially accountable. In fiscal year 1997, it was determined that no entities met the required GASB-14 criteria of component units. B. Basis of Presentation - Fund Accountinq For reporting purposes, the financial activities of the Town of North Andover are accounted for through the use of several funds and account groups. Each fund is a separate accounting entity with self-balancing accounts. The following types of funds and account groups are used by the Town of North Andove~. Governmental Fund Types Governmental funds are those through which most governmental func- tions of the Town are financed. The acquisition, use and balances of the Town's expendable financial resources and the related liabilities (except those accounted for in fiduciary funds) are accounted for through govern- mental funds. The measurement focus is based upon determination of changes in financial position, rather than upon net income determination. The following are the Town's governmental fund types: General Fund - To account for all financial activities of the Town, except those required to be accounted for in another fund. Most revenues and expenditures of a general governmental nature are accounted for in this fund. Special Revenue Funds - To account for the proceeds of specific revenue sources (other than expendable trusts or for major capital projects) that are legally restricted to expenditures for special purposes. Capital Proiect Funds - Transactions related to resources obtained and used for the acquisition, consl3'uction, or improvement of major capital facilities are accounted for in capital project funds.. Such resources are derived principally from proceeds of general obligation bond issues and from Federal and State grants. Fiduciary Fund Types Fiduciary funds are used to account for assets held by the Town in a trustee capacity. The Town maintains the following fiduciary fund types: Expendable Trust Funds - These funds are accounted for in essentially the same manner as governmental funds. Nonexpendable Trust Funds - These funds are used to account for assets held by the Town in a trustee capacity. The principal balance cannot be spent; however, investment earnings may be spent for intended purposes. Aqency Funds - These funds are custodial in nature (assets equal liabili- ties) and do not involve measurement of results of operations. Account Groups Account groups are used to establish accounting control and accountabil- ity for the Town's general long-term obligations. The following account group is maintained by the Town. General Long-Term Debt Account Group - This account group is used to account for all long-term obligations of the Town. C. Basis of Accounting The basis of accounting used for each fund is as follows: Modified Accrual Basis (Governmental. Expendable Trust and Agency Funds) The accounting and financial reporting treatment applied to a fund is determined by its measurement focus. All governmental and expendable trust funds are accounted for using a Current financial resources measure- ment focus. With this measurement focus, only current assets and current liabilities generally are included on the balance sheet. Operating statements of these funds present increases (i.e., revenues and other financing sources) and decreases (i.e., expenditures and other financing uses) in net current assets. The modified accrual basis of accounting is applied in all governmental, expendable trust and agency fund types. Accordingly, revenues are recorded when susceptible to accrual, that is, both measurable and avail- able to finance expenditures of the current period. Available means collectible within the current period or soon enough thereafter to be used to pay liabilities of the current period. The Town considers property tax revenue available if received within 60 days after the close of the fiscal year. All other amounts not received during that period are deferred and recognized in future accounting periods. In applying the susceptible to accrual concept to intergovernmental revenues, the legal and contractual requirements of the numerous indivi- dual programs are used as guidance. There are essentially two types of these revenues: (1) revenues recognized based upon the expenditures recorded, and (2) revenues recognized at the time of receipt or earlier, if the susceptible to accrual criteda is met. Other revenues (except investment earnings) are recorded as revenues when received in cash because they are generally not measurable until actually received. Investment earnings are recorded as earned since they are measurable and available. Expenditures, except for interest on long-term debt which is recorded when due, and vacation, sick and pension costs because these amounts are not expected to be relieved within the current accounting period, are recorded when the related fund liability is incurred. Accrual Basis (Nonexpendable Trust Fund) Nonexpendable trust funds are accounted far on a flow of economic resources measurement focus. With this measurement focus, all assets and liabilities associated with the operation of these funds are included on the balance sheet. The accrual basis of accounting is used by nonexpendable trust funds. Their revenues are recognized when they are earned, and their expenses are recognized when they are incurred. D. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash balances from all funds, except those required to be segregated by law, are combined to form a consolidation of cash. Cash balances are invested to the extent available, and interest earnings are recognized in the General Fund. Certain special revenue funds and fiduciary funds segregate cash, and investment earnings become a part of those, funds. Deposits with financial institutions consist primarily of demand deposits, certificates of deposits, and savings accounts. The Town maintains a cash and investment pool that is available for use by all funds. Each fund's portion of this pool is reflected on the combined financial state- ments under the caption "cash and cash equivalents". The interest earn- ings attributable to each fund type is included under earnings on invest- ments. E. Investments State and local statutes place certain limitations on the nature of deposits and investment available to the Town. Deposits in any financial institution may not exceed certain levels within the financial institution. Non- fiduciary fund investments can be made in securities issued by or uncon- ditionally guaranteed by the U.S. Government or agencies that have a maturity of less than one year from the date of purchase and repurchase agreements guaranteed by such securities with maturity dates of no mere than 90 days from the date of purchase. F. Property Tax Limitations Legislation known as "Proposition 2 1/2" limits the.amount of revenue the Town can derive from property taxes. The prior fiscal year's tax levy limit is used as a base and cannot increase by more than 2.5 percent (excluding new growth), unless an override or debt exemption is voted. The actual fiscal year 1997 tax levy reflected an excess capacity of $1,438. G. Interfund Receivables and Payables Transactions between funds that are representative of lending/borrowing arrangements outstanding at the end of the fiscal year are referred to as either "due from/to other funds" (i.e., the current portion of interfund loans) or "advances to/from other funds" (i.e., the non-current portion of interfund loans). H. Long-Term Ob/i,qations The government reports long-term debt of governmental funds at face value in the general long-term debt account group. Certain other govern- mental fund obligations not expected to be financed with current available financial resources are also reported in the general long-term debt account group. I. Accrued Employee Benefits Town employees are granted vacation and sick leave in varying amounts. Upon retirement, termination, or death, certain employees are compen- sated for unused sick and vacation leave which is (subject to certain limitations) at their then current rates of pay. The cost of this unused sick and vacation leave, which is expected to be paid from future financial resources, is accounted for as a liability of the general long-term debt account group. J. Fund Equity Reservations of fund balance represent amounts that are not appropriable or are legally segregated for a specific purpose. K. Encumbrance Accounting and Reporting Encumbrance accounting is employed in governmental funds. Encum- brances (e.g., purchase orders, contracts) outstanding at year end are reported as reservations of fund balances and do not constitute expendi; tures or liabilities. I.. Memorandum Only- Total Columns Total columns on the general purpose financial statements are captioned as "memorandum only" because they do not represent consolidated finan- cial information and are presented only to facilitate financial analysis. The columns do not present information that reflects financial position, results of operations, or cash flows in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Interfund eliminations have not been made in the aggregation of this data. M. Statement of Cash Flows No separate statement of cash flows for the non-expendable trust funds is presented since the only change in the cash balance resulted from the net income $ 5,308. e Departures from Generally Accepted AccountinR Principles The significant departures of the Town's financial statements from generally accepted accounting principles are as follows: · General fixed asset acquisitions are not capitalized in a general fixed asset group of accounts. 3. Stewardship, Compliance and Accountability A. Budgetary Information At the town meeting, the Finance Committee presents an operating and capital budget for the proposed expenditures of the fiscal year commenc- ing the following July 1. The budget, as enacted by the town meeting, establishes the legal level of control and specifies that certain appropri- ations are to be funded by particular revenues. The original budget is amended during the fiscal year at special town meetings as required by changing conditions. In cases of extraordinary or unforeseen expenses, the Finance Committee is empowered to transfer funds from the Reserve Fund (a contingency appropriation) to a departmental appropriation. "Extraordinary" includes expenses which are not in the usual line, or are great or exceptional. "Unforeseen" includes expenses which are not foreseen as of the time of the annual meeting when appropriations are voted. Departments are limited to the line items as voted. Certain items may exceed the line item budget as approved if it is for an emergency and for the safety of the general public. These items are limited by the Massa- chusetts General Laws and must be raised in the next year's tax rate. Formal budgetary integration is employed as a management control device during the year for the General Fund. Effective budgetary control is achieved for all other funds through provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws. At year end, appropriation balances lapse, except for certain unexpended capital items and encumbrances which will be honored during the subse- quent year. Budgetary Basis The General Fund appropriation appearing on page 4 of the financial statements represents the final amended budget of the Town and was authorized as follows: 1997 annual appropriations 1997 supplemental appropriations Statutory County and State assessments Other uses legally required to be raised Total Appropriation C. Bud.qet/GAAP Reconciliation $ 640,000 40,369,798 506,552 491,847 The budgetary data for the general fund is based upon accounting prin- ciples that differ from generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Therefore, in addition to the GAAP basis financial statements, the results of operations of the general fund are presented in accordance with bud- getary accounting principles to provide a meaningful comparison with budgetary data. The following is a summary of adjustments made to the actual revenues and other sources, and expenditures and other uses, to conform to the budgetary basis of accounting. General Fund Revenues/Expenditures (GAAP basis) Other financing sources/uses (GAAP basis) Adjust tax revenue to accrual basis Reverse appropriation deficits raised in fiscal 1997 Reverse expenditures of pdor year appropriation carTyforwards Add end of year appropriation can'yferwards to expenditures Revenues and Other Financing Sources $ 41,012,473 21,108 (225,917) Expenditures and Other Financin,q Uses $ 41,047,811 879,650 (550,602) (184,810) 280,549 (continued) (continued) Record raising of pdor year appropriation deficits 491,847 Recognize use of other sources as funding source 640,000 Budgetary basis $ 41.447.664 $ 41.964.445 D. Excess of Expenditures Over Appropriations The Town had expenditures exceeding appropriations as follows: General Fund: Health Insurance $ 49,328 E. Deficit Fund Equity The following funds had deficits as of June 30, 1997: Special Revenue Funds: Chapter 90 $( 221,175) Capital Project Funds: Town improvements Town improvements Capital improvements Water mains DPW - equipment School construction Osgood Hill Middle School construction $(304,956) $(1,100,226) $( 390,086) $(207,496) $(162,999) - $(1,928,485) $(4,900,000) $(12,865,'!,'!,3) The deficits in these funds will be eliminated through future departmental revenues, bond proceeds, and transfers from other funds. 4. Cash and, Cash Equivalents The carrying amount of the Town's deposits with financial institutions at June 30, 1997 was $18,627,278. The bank balances, which do not include reconciling items such as deposits in transit or outstanding checks, are categorized as follows: Amount insured by the FDIC and DIFM, or collateralized with securities held by the Town in its name Uncollateralized State investment pool Total Bank Balance 522.,635 9,765,087 9,0641083 5. Taxes Receivable Real and personal property taxes are based on assessed values as of the previous January 1 and are normally due on a quarterly basis. By law, all taxable property must be assessed at 100% of fair cash value. Taxes due and unpaid after the due dates are subject to interest and penalties. The T<3wn has an ultimate right to foreclose on property for unpaid taxes. The following is a summary of the property tax calendar used for the 1997 tax levies: June, 1996: First quarterly real estate tax bills are mailed to taxpayers. This bill is approximately equal to one quarter of the prior year's tax levy. August, 1996: First quarter preliminary tax bills are due. All bills paid after this date are charged interest at the rate of 14% from the due date. September, 1996: The second quarter real estate tax bills are mailed to taxpayers. This bill is approximately equal to one quarter of the prior year's tax levy. November, 1996: The second quarter preliminary tax bills are due. All bills paid after this date are charged interest at the rate of 14% from the due date. December, 1996: The third quarter real estate and personal property tax bills are mailed to taxpayers. This bill is approximately equal to one half of the current tax levy less preliminary payments. February, 1997: The third quarter tax bills are due. All bills paid after this date are charged interest at the rate of 14% from the due date. March, 1997: The fourth quarter real estate and personal property tax bills are mailed to taxpayers. This is for the remainder of the tax levy. May, 1997: The fourth quarter tax bills are due. All bills paid after this date are charged interest at the rate of 14% from the due date. Fourteen days after the due date for the fourth quarter tax bill for real estate taxes, a demand notice may be sent to the delinquent taxpayer. Fourteen days after the demand notice has been sent, the tax collector may proceed to file a lien against the delinquent taxpayers' property. Taxes receivable at June 30, 1997 Consist of the following: Real Estate 1997 $ 300,130 1996 8,602 Prior 26.908 335,840 Personal Property 1997 11,181 1996 1,790 Prior 49,805 62,776 Tax Liens 1,372,176 Deferred taxes 3,304 Total $1,77~.896 Due From Other Governments This balance represents amounts owed to the Town from the state for various highway projects. 7. Interfund Receivables/Payables The Town maintains several self-balancing funds; however, certain trans- actions flow through the General Fund. In order to obtain accountability for each fund, interfund receivable and payable accounts are periodically utilized. The following is an analysis of the June 30, 1997 balances in interfund receivable and payable accounts. Due From Due to Fund Other Funds Other Funds General $126,959 $ - Special Revenue Funds: Chapter 90 Other special revenue funds 101,625 35O Agency Funds: Conservation escrow 24, g84 Totals $126.9 9 8. Amount to be Provided by Commonwealth The balance in this account represents the portion of bonds payable expected to be reimbursed through the Commonwealth's Massachusetts Water Pollution Abatement Trust. Se Warrants Payable Warrants payable represent 1997 expenditures paid by July 15, 1997 as permitted by law. 10. Accrued Liabilities Accrued liabilities in the general funds represents incurred but not reported health insurance claims and salaries earned by Town employees but unpaid as of year end. 11. Deferred,,Revenue The balance of the General Fund deferred revenues account is equal to the total of all June 30, 1997 receivable balances, except real and personal property taxes that are accrued for subsequent 60 day collections. The Town's statutory "allowance for abatements and exemptions" (overlay) account, with a balance of $ 245,430 has been reclassified to deferred revenue for reporting purposes. 12. Reserve for Tax Refunds This balance consists of an estimate of refunds due to property taxpayers for potential abatements. These cases are currently pending with the state Appellate Tax Board. 13. Anticipation Notes Payable The Town had the following notes outstanding at June 30, 1997: Interest Date of Date of Rate Issue Matudty Bond anticipation 4.0% 1/97 1/98 Bond anticipation .4.0% 1/97 1/98 Bond anticipation 3.99% ~ 1/97 9/97 Bond anticipation 3.99% . 1/97 9/97 Bond anticipation 4.10% 9/96 9/97 State aid anticipation 4.43% 5/97 9/97 Balance at June 30, 1997 $ 4,900,000 17,973,000 60,750 644,250 3,873,000 264,000 Total '14. Other Liabilities This balance consists primarily of various payroll deductions. 15. Long,~Term Debt A. General Obligation Bonds The Town issues general obligation bonds to provide funds for the acquisition and construction of major capital facilities. Payment is not limited to a particular revenue source. However, as previously noted, the Town's ability to raise property taxes is restricted by the enactment of legislation known as "Proposition 2 1/2". General obligation bonds currently outstanding are as follows: General purpose, fiscal year 1989 General purpose, fiscal year 1991 General purpose, fiscal year 1993 General purpose, fiscal year 1995 General purpose, fiscal year 1996 General purpose, fiscal year 1997 Massachusetts Water Pollution Abatement Trust Interest Matudty Balance Rate D,ate June 30, 1997 6.20 - 7.40% 11/01/12 $ 1,330,000 5.50.7.10% 11/01/12 2,600,000 6.20 - 7.40% 11/01/12 4,975,000 4.60 - 6.80% 6/15/15 4,375,000 4.40 - 5.20% 9115111 7,165,000 6.00 - 5.50% 1/15/15 12,348,000 variable 2/01/15 ~2,438,834 (1) (1) The Town expects to receive reim~ursement of approximately $ 857, 000 from the Massachusetts Water Pollution Abatement Trust. B. Future Debt Service The annual principal and interest payments to retire ail general obligation long-term debt outstanding as of June 30, 1997 are as follows: 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 after Principal Interest T..otal $ 2,586,586 $ 1,878,540 $ 4,465,126 2,382,200 1,723,540 4,105,740 2,406,064 1,581,430 3,987,494 2,425,195 1,441,858 3,867,051 2,214,615 1,310,364 3,524,979 23,217,174 7,520,941 30,738,115 $ ~ $15.456.671 $ 50.688.50~ C. Bond Authorizations Long-term debt authorizations which have not been issued as long term bonds or rescinded as of June 30, 1997 are as follows: Purpose Land acquisition - Mazurenko Land acquisition - Calzetta Water system Building renovations Police communications Cochickewick outlet Amount 180,000 2,000 152,210 15,000 1,022 30,000 (continued) (continued) p.urpose Fire exhaust DPW sewer phase II Land acquisition - Osgood Hill Elementary school School oil tank School chairlift School fire alarm School technical equipment School Hayes light DPW equipment DPW sewer phase 3 DPW sewer improvement DPW road improvement DPW recycle truck Replace engine 3 rescue Technology equipment Water main rehab Ozone generator Water supply feasibility Renovations Architectural design Engineer subsequent years Variable freq. pump ddve Raw water wet well access Pumping station improvement N. Andover Middle School Acquisition Youth Center Technology School High school lockers phase II High school correct drainage/pavement Cyr dog pound Amount 1,500 106,000 4,900,000 2,180,000 31,500 40,000 78 904 55 000 40000 212 500 705 884 500,000 115,000 125OOO 390,000 205,600 825,000 95,000 25,000 500,000 270,000 35,000 41,000 10,000 30,000 17,973,000 450,000 260,013 47,000 37,000 lO, OO Total $ ~0.655.133 D. Ovedaoping Debt The Town's proportionate share of debt of other governmental units which provide services within the Town's boundaries, and which must be borne by the resources of the Town, is summarized below (in thousands of dollars) (unaudited): Related Entity Greater Lawrence Sanitary District Essex County Total Total Town's Town's Principal Percent Share $ 5,770 9.00% $ 519 630 4.58% ... 28 $ 6.400 $ 347 This liability is appropriately not reported in the accompanying financial statements. E. Lecjal Debt Ma~, in The Town is subject to the General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massa- chusetts which limits the amount of bonded debt the Town may have out- standing to 5 percent of the valuation of taxable property as last equalized by the Commonwealth's Department of Revenue. The following is a com- putation of the legal debt margin as of June 30, 1997 (in thousands of dollars): Equalized valuation - January 1, 1995 Debt limit - 5% of equalized valuation Total debt outstanding Less: debt exempt from limit Authorized, unissued Legal Debt Margin 35,232 - ) $ 97,297 35,232 (30.655) 4.577 F. Chanqe$ in Genera/Long-Term LJ'abilities Dudng the year ended June 30, 1997, the following changes occurred in liabilities reported in the general long-term debt account group (in thousands): Accrued employee benefits General obligation debt Totals Balance July 1, 1996 Additions Reductions $ 331 $ 22 $ 24,794 12,538 2.100 $~ S 12..560 $2100 Balance June 30, 1997 $ 353 35,232 $ 35.585 16. Reserves and Desi.qnations of Fund Equity The Town has established "reserves" of fund equity to segregate fund balances which are either not available for expenditure in the future or are legally set aside for a specific future use. Fund "designations," which are not. legally required segregations, have also been established to indicate tenta- tive plans for future financial utilization. The Town reported the following types of reserves and designations at June 30, 1997: Reserved for Encumbrances - An account used to segregate that portion of fund balance committed for expenditure of financial resources upon vendor performance. Reserved for Endowments - Represents the principal of the nonexpendable trust fund investments. The balance cannot be spent for any purpose; how- ever, it may be invested and the earnings may be spent. Unreserved - Desi,qnated - represents management's tentative plans to utilize fund balance for water and sewer rate stabilization. 17. General Fund Undesicjnated Fund Balance The undesignated general fund balance reported on the balance sheet is stated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), which differs in certain respects from the Massachusetts Uniform Municipal Accounting System (UMAS). The following paragraphs summarize the major differences. Massachusetts general laws include provisions to allow municipalities to · overexpend certain appropriations if they are incurred in an emergency situ- ation and for the safety of the public. The most common example involves the 'snow and ice" appropriation. All such overexpenditures, however, must be funded in the subsequent year's tax rate. Massachusetts General Laws require that non-property tax revenue budget shortfalls, net of appropriation tumbacks, be funded in the subsequent year. The same treatment is also applied to the excess of ac*ual property tax abatements and exemptions over the provision for abatements and exemptions (overlay). The accompanying financial statements include an estimate for future poten- tial tax refunds, which is not recognized under UMAS, The following summarizes the specific differences between GAAP basis and statutory basis of reporting the general fund undesignated fund balance: GAAP basis balance Appropriation deficits Tax refund estimate $ 384,348 15,930 25,000 Statutory (UMAS) Balance 18. Subsequent Events Permanent Debt In January 1998, the Town permanently bonded $ 24,603,000 and $ 4,625,000 of the bond anticipation notes outstanding as of June 30, 1997. Budget Authorization The financial statements for the Town of North Andover as of June 30, 1997 do not reflect the fiscal 1998 annual budget authorized in May 1997. The amount authorized in May (all funds) totaled $ 19. Commitments and Contingencies Outstandinq Lawsuits - There are several pending lawsuits in which the Town is involved. The Town's management is of the opinion that the potential future settlement of such claims would not materially affect its financial statements faken as a whole. Grants - Amounts received or receivable from grantor agencies are subject to audit and adjustment by grantor agencies, principally the federal government. Any disallowed claims, including amounts already collected, may constitute a liability of the applicable funds. The amount of expenditures which may be disallowed by the grantor cannot be determined at this time, although the Town expects such amounts, if any, to be immaterial. Contracts - The Town is required by contract to dispose of a minimum tonnage of solid waste and to make certain minimum payment for such disposal. The Town is unconditionally obligated to make these payments. The disposal facility was financed by $197 million bonds ($ 23,075,000 allocated to a bond reserve fund). The Town's indirect share of the bonds (net of the reserve fund) approximate 3.9% As the host community to this facility, the Town collects a $ 2.05/ton fee in lieu of property taxes, for each ton of waste delivered. 20. Deferred Compensation Plan The Town offers its employees a deferred compensation plan created in accordance with Internal Revenue Code Section 457. The plan, available to all employees, permits them to defer a portion of their salary until future years. The deferred compensation is not available [o employees until termination, retirement, death, or unforeseeable emergency. The Town funds all amounts of compensation deferred under the Plan, at the direction of the covered employee, through investments underwritten by the Copeland Companies. All amounts of compensation deferred under the plan, all property and rights purchased with those amounts, and all income attributable to those amounts, are (until paid or made available to the employee or other beneficiary) solely the property and rights of the Town, subject only to the claims of the Town's general creditors. Participants' rights under the plan are equal to those of general creditors of the Town in an amount equal to the fair market value of the deferred account for each participant. On August 20, 1996 the Small Business Reform Act changed Section 457 to require that all assets of a plan be held in a trust for the exclusive benefit of participants and their beneficiaries, thus eliminating the ability of the Town's creditors to obtain funds from the plan. The Town has no liability for losses under the plan but does have the duty of due care that would be required of an ordinary prudent investor. The Town believes that it is unlikely that it will use the assets to satisfy the claims of general creditors in the future. 21. Post-Retirement Health Care and Life Insurance Benefits The Town's employee contracts provide for health care and life insurance benefits to retirees, their dependent, or their survivors. These benefits are provided through the Town's group plans. The cost of these benefits are included in the total cost of benefits for both active and retired employees. The number of participants currently eligible to receive benefits, and cost of benefits for retirees, their dependents, or their survivors for the year ended June 30, 1997 was not available. 22. Participation in County Retirement System A. Plan Description and Contribution Information Substantially all employees of the Town (except teachers and administra- tors under contract employed by the School Department) are members of the Essex Contributory Retirement System (ECRS), a cost shadng, multi- ple employer PERS. Eligible employees must participate in the ECRS. The pension plan provides pension benefits, deferred allowances, and death and disability benefits. Chapter 232 of the Massachusetts General Laws establishes the authority of the ECRS Retirement Board. Chapter 32 also establishes contribution percentages and benefits paid. The ECRS Retirement Board does not have the authority to amend benefit provisions. Membership of each plan consisted of the following at December 31, 1996, the date of the latest actuarial valuation: Retirees and beneficiaries receiving benefits and terminated plan members entitled to but not yet receiving benefits 349 Active plan members 2,900 Total 3,249 Number of participating employers Employee contribution percentages are specified in Chapter 32 of the Massachusetts General Laws. The percentage is determined by the participant's date of entry into the system. All employees hired after January 1, 1979 contribute an additional 2% on all gross regular earning over the rate of $ 30,000 per year. The percentages are as follows: Before January 1, 1975 January 1, 1975- December 31, 1983 January 1, 1984 - June 30, 1996 Beginning July 1, 1996 5% 7% 8% 9% Employers are required to contribute at actuarially determined rates as accepted by the public Employee Retirement Administration (PERA). B. Other Required lnformation Schedule of Funding Progress (dollar amounts in thousands): Actuarial Accrued Actuarial Liability Unfunded Actuarial Value of (AAL) - AAL Valuation Assets Entry Age (UAAL) Oate (.s} (b) (b-a) 12/31/95 $106,177 $196,062 $ 89,885 Funded Covered Ratio Payroll 54.2% $ 72,953 UAP, L as a Percent- age of Covered Payroll f(~,- aycl 1.23% Schedule of Employer Contributions: Year Ended June 30 Annual Required Contribution Percentage Contributed 1997 $ 1,182,792 100% The required information presented above was determined as part of the actuarial valuations at the dates indicated. Additional information as of the latest actuarial valuation follows. Valuation date Actuarial cost method Amortization method Remaining amortization period Asset valuation method Actuarial assumptions: Investment rate of return" Projected salary increases* * Includes inflation at , Cost of living adjustments January 1, 1996 Entry age Level percentage 31 Market 8% 5% 1% Teachers As required by State statutes, teachers of the Town are covered by the Massachusetts Teachers Retirement System (MTRS). The MTRS is funded by contributions from covered employees and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Town is not required to contribute. All. persons employed on at least a half-time basis, who are covered under a contractual agreement requiring certification by the Board of Education are eligible, and must participate in the MTRS. Based on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts' retirement laws, employees covered by the pension plan must contribute a percentage of gross earnings into the pension fund. The percentage is determined by the participants date of entry into the system and gross earnings, up to $ 30,000, as follows: Before January 1, 1975 January 1, 1975 - December 31, 1983 January 1, 1984 - June 30, 1996 Beginning July 1, 1996 5% 7% 8% 9% Effective January 1, 1990, all participants hired after January 1, 1979, must pay an additional 2% of salary in excess of $ 30,000. The Town's current year covered payroll for teachers was $12,190,153. 23. Self Insurance The Town self insures against claims for employee health coverage. Annual estimated requirements for claims are provided in the Town's annual opera- ting budget. The Town contracts with an insurance carrier for excess liability coverage and an insurance consultant for claims processing. Under the terms of its insurance coverage, the Town is liable for any excess due over $ 60,000 per incident. The claims liability represents an estimate of claims incurred but unpaid at year end, based on past historical costs and claims paid subse- quent to year end. This liability is reported as part of accrued liabilities in the general fund. Changes in the aggregate liability for claims for the year ended June 30, 1997 are as follows: Claims liability, July 1 ,. 1996 Claims incurred / recognized in fiscal year 1997 Claims paid in fiscal year 1997 Claims liability, June 30, 1997 $ 49O,528 3,089,044 (2.707.882) $ 871.890 Index North Andover Service Listings C~r Town Offices Town Officers and Committees Officials and Term Expiration Dates General Government Board of Selectmen and Town Manager 10 Finance Committee 15 Division of Finance and Administration Assessors Office 17 Town Accountant 18 Town Treasurer 19 Town Clerk 20 Division of Community Development and Services Community Dcvelopmant Office 22 Animal Inspector 25 Building Department 25 Conservation Commission 26 Council on Aging 29 Health Department 31 Historical Commission 34 Planning Department 35 Recreation Department 38 Stevens Memorial Library 39 Stevens Memorial Library Trustees 41 Veterans' Services 44 Youth Services 45 Division of Public Works Public Works Division of Community Services AffuTo_ative Action Program Commission on Disability Issues Housing Authority Council for the Arts School Department School Committee Superintendent of Schools Financial Reports Fiscal Year 1997 Adopted Budgets and Expenditures General Fund Revenue 56 61 62 63 65 66 68 78 82 Financial Report--School Department Special Education Expenditures 88 Grants 89 Revolving Accounts 90 Enrollment on October I 91 Town Meetings and Elections Special Town Meeting---October 29, 1996 92 Town Meeting--May 12, 1997 93 Financial Appendix Independent Auditors Report Division of Public Safety North Andover Emergency Management Agency Fire Department Police Department 47 49 51 EMERGENCY NUMBERS Fire Rescue or Ambulance ....................................................................... 9-1-1 Police ........................................................................................................ 9-1-1 YOUR TOWN GOVERNMENT General Information ........................................................................................ 688-9500 Accounting Office ........................................................................................... 688-9520 Animal Control Officer ................................................................................... 683-3168 Animal Inspector ............................................................................................. 688-1255 Assessor's Office ............................................................................................ 688-9566 Community Development and Services Building Department ............................................................................ 688-9545 Conservation ......................................................................................... 688-9530 Health Department ................................................................................. 688-9540 Planning Department ............................................................................. 688-9535 Zoning Board of Appeals ....................................................................... 688-9541 Emergency Management Agency ................................................................... 688-9580 Fire Department - General Business ............................................................... 688-9590 Housing Authority ........................................................................................... 682-3932 Library - Steven's Memorial ........................................................................... 688-9505 Personnel ......................................................................................................... 688-9516 Police Department - General Business ........................................................... 683-3168 Public Works - Trash and Recycling ............................................................... 685-0950 Water/Sewer Department ...................................................................... 688-9570 Water Treatment Plant ............................................................................ 688-9574 Recreation Department ................................................................................... 688-9579 School Department Superintendent's Office ......................................................................... 794-1503 Atkinson School ..................................................................................... 794-0124 Bradstreet School ................................................................................... 794-1677 Franklin School ...................................................................................... 794-1990 High School ............................................................................................ 794-1711 Kittrcdge School .................................................................................... 794-1688 Middle School ........................................................................................ 794-1870 Sargent School ........................................................................................ 725-3673 Thomson School ..................................................................................... 794-1545 Sealer of Weights and Measures .................................................................... 686-2638 Selectmen's Office .......................................................................................... 688-9510 Senior Citizen's Center ................................................................................... 688-9560 Town Clerk ..................................................................................................... 688-9501 Town Manager ................................................................................................ 6880510 Town Moderator .............................................................................................. 68%1568 Treasurer/Collector ......................................................................................... 688-9550 Veteran's Services ........................................................................................... 688-9525 Youth Services ................................................................................................ 682.9000 '~'.