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Home My WebLink About1998 The cover of the Annual Town Report for 1998 shows two of North Andover's building successes. The North Andover Middle School is a proud symbol of a well-run school building project. The Thomson School, completed at the end of 1998, also exhibits the efforts of architects, builders, planners, but most of all the people of the community who supported both endeavors. The renovation of our Stevens Memorial Library and the expansion of our North Andover Senior Center have provided much needed facilities for the use of the entire Community. Our future is also bright with the pending construction of the Joseph N. Hermann Youth Center as years of fundraising and planning come to fruition. Our thanks go to all departments who contributed to the information in this report. The people of the Town of North Andover are encouraged to continue their support and encouragement as we move forward together. The North Andover Senior Center North Andover Service Listings Our Town INCORPORATED April 7, 1855 SITUATION About 24 miles north of Boston Latitude 42040'' 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 July 1, 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 and 2 North Andover Middle School Main St. STATE REPRESENTATIVES 14th Essex - Precincts 1, 2, 3, and 6 David M. Torrisi Precincts 3 and 4 Atkinson School Phillips Brook Road 21st Middlesex District - Precincts 4 and 5 Bradley H. Jones, Jr. STATE SENATOR 3rd Essex Precincts 1, 2, 3, and 4. James P. Jajuga Precincts 5 and 6 Franklin School Cypress Terrace Polls open 7:00 A.~a.--8:00 P.M. 1st Essex and Middlesex Precincts 5 and 6 Brace E. Tart Town Offices 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 TFY: 683-3168 HOURS: 24 hours a day PUBLIC LIBRARY 345 Main Street PHONE: 688-9505 FAX: 688-9507 HOURS: Monday-Thursday 10:00 ^.M.-9:00 Friday and Saturday 10:00 A.M-5:00 Sunday 2:00 p.M-5:00 P.M. 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 ^.M.--4:30 P.M. TOWN MANAGER 120 Main Street PHONE: 688-9510 FAX: 688-9556 SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION 675 Chickering Road PHONE: 794-1503 FAX: 794-0231 HOURS: 8:00 ,1:30 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 Sdaool 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 27 Charles Street PHONE: 688-9540 Communicable Diseases Info/Surveillance Environmental Health Concerns Food Establishmem Permits/Complaints Food Sanitation Training Programs Health Screening: Blood Pressure, TB Home Visits Housing: Requ'uements 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 27 Charles Steet PHONE: 688-9545 ADA Coordinator Building Permits Building Information Demolition Permits Fireplace & Chimney Permits Gas Permits Masonary Permits Occupancy Permits Plumbing Permits Relocating Strncture 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 27 Charles Steet PHONE: 688-9530 Wetlands Information COUNCIL ON AGING-SENIOR CENTER 120R Main Street PHONE: 688-9560 HOURS: Monday-Friday 8:30 n.M.-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 Patties 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 ^.u.-9:00 P.~. Friday and Saturday 10:00 ^.M-5:00 Sunday 2:00 t,.M--5:00 ~'.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 TrY: 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 Advisovj 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 P.M. Field and Park Maintenance Boat and Fishing Permits - Lake Cochichewick Pothole and Road Hazard Repairs Public Tree Issues Recycling Permits Sewer Connections Sewer Blockages Snow Removal Regulations 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 CMldren'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 ^.M.-4:30 P.M. Art: K-12 Athletics (794-3144) Community Schools Program (794-3080) Day Care Programs Breakfast Club Extended Kindergarten KidStop! 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 Heatings STEVENS ESTATES AT OSGOOD HII,L 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 24-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 David Minicucci Ernest Jones CABLE TV COMMITTEE ** George I. Dague, Chairman Richard M. Gacioch Robert S. Parker Thomas M. Finelli Vincent G. Ranscher Mark Catologna Arthur S. Fundeklian David Torrisi, Selectmen's Rep. 0999) (1999) (1999) (1999) (1999) (1999) (1999) (200o) (2000) (2OOl) (2001) CONSERVATION COMMISSION ** Albert P. Manzi, Ir., Chairman (1999) Beth Westcott (1999) Deborah Feltovic (2000) Robert Mansour (2000) Joseph W. Lynch (2001) John Mabon (2001) ScoU Masse (2001) Michael Howard, Conservation Administrator COUNCIL ON AGING ** Maria V. Rosati, Chairperson (2000) Mae Cantone (1999) Robert Driscoll (1999) Joanne Perry (1999) Domenic Torrisi (1999) Frank Geanarelli (2000) Albert S. Movesian (2000) Adele McConaghy (2001 ) Jean Muellar (2001) Eugene Thibodeau (2001) Nicholas Ventrillo (2001) Kathleen B. Gorman, Director, Eider Services COMMISSION ON DISABILITY ISSUES *** Cheryl Vazza-Scotti, Chair (2000) James IR. Lyons (1999) Eugene Nevins (1999) Barbara Currier (2000) Donald B. Stewart (2000) Judith Moolic (2001) Leonard Perkins (2001) EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY * * John J. Coco, Director Jeffrey J. Coco, Deputy Director Richard Stanley, Police Services Officer William Dolan, Warning Services Officer Richard C. Boettcher, OIC Auxa'Special Police Joseph Sullivan, Jr., Communications Officer Leonard Somers, Education and Training Officer Evelyn Coco, Secretary (1999) FINANCE COMMITIEE **** Rosemary Smedile, Chairman (1999) Peter North (1999) Michael Gan'on (1999) Michael Bubar (2000) Peter Phelps (2000) William D. Whittaker, Jr. (2000) Polly Pyle (2001) Alfred Russo (2001) 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 * Mark Ford (2002) 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 Debra Rillahan, R.N. Susan Ford, Inspector (2001) (1999) (2000) HISTORICAL COMMISSION ** Kathleen Szyska, Chair (2000) Patxicia Long (2000) Anne Erickson (2001) Barbara Somers (2001) HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION ** George Schruender, Chairman (2000) Harry Aznoian (1999) Patricia Hayward (1999) Robert Stevens (1999) Martha Larson (2000) Leslie Hopkins (2001) Kathleen Szyska (2001) HOUSING AUTHORITY * William McEvoy, Chairman (2000) Clare Coco (2001) Keith Mitchell (2001) Helen Soucy (2003) Anna O'Connor (2004) Hope R. Minicucci, PHM, Executive Director HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR*** Chris Liebke INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY *** George Schmender, Chairman John R. Kalin Larry Buote Jennifer Keenan INSPECTORS*** D. Robert Nicetta, Bldg. Commissioner & Zoning Enforcement Officer Michael McGnire, Local Inspector James L. Diozzi, Plumbing & Gas Inspector James DeCola, Electrical Inspector Robert E. Atwood, D.M. LIBRARY TRUSTEES (Replacement 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 (2002) 0999) (2001) (2002) (2000 (1999) (1999) (1999) (1999) LICENSING COMMISSIONERS * Donald B. Stewart, Chairman William B. Duffy David Torrisi lohn R. Leemah, Jr. Keith A. Mitchell (2000) (1999) (1999) (2000) (2OOl) LOCAL ARTS COLrNCIL ** Jill Barker, Co-chair (2000) Jeannine Rose Hardy, Co-chair (2000) Patricia Conroy (1999) Lisa Lousigian (1999) Barbara Somers (1999) J. Leslie Young-Lemire (2000) Peter Baylies (2001) Patricia Constanfinean (2001 ) Jacob Zarr (2001) MERRIMACK VALLEY PLANING COMM. (Appointed by Planning Board) John Smolak (1999) PLANNING BOARD *** Richard Rowen, Chairman (1999) Joseph V. Mahoney, Esq. (1999) Richard A. Nardella (2000) John Simons (2000) Alberto Angles, Jr. Associate Member (2001) Alison Lescarbean (2001 ) Kathleen Bradley Colwell, Esq., Town Planner PLANNING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT *** William J. Scott, Director POLICE CHIEF ** Richard M. Stanley PUBLIC WORKS, DIVISION OF *** J. William Hmurciak RF_,CREATION COUNCIL ** William McEvoy, Chairman (2000) William B outillier (1999) John Driscoll (1999) Jeanne Lee (1999) William Blackstock (2000) William McCarthy (2000) Jay McDonald (2001) Barbara Pybus (2001) Joseph Walsh (2001) REGISTRAR OF VOTERS, BOARD OF ** Leo E. Lefond, Chairman (2001) Mary Alice Windle (1999) Helen Tacy (2000) Joyce A. Bra&haw, Town Clerk (Ex Officio) SCHOOL BUILDING COMMITTEE (Appointed by School Committee & Town Moderator) Louis Minicucci, Chair Stephen Bullis Marilyn G. Doyle Harold Dushame Diane J. Huster Domenic Scalise Paul Szymanski SCHOOL COMMITTEE * John S. Lyons, Chairman Diane J. Huster Marilyn G. Doyle Louis Minicuc¢i, Jr. Nancy Gaffny Rullo (1999) (1999) (20O0) (2000) (2001) SCHOOL, SUPERINTENDENT OF (Appointed by School Committee) Dr. William E. Alien SEALER OF WEIGHTS & MEASURES *** Leonard White SELECTMEN, BOARD OF * Keith A. Mitchell, Chairman William B. Duffy, Jr. David Totrisi John R. Leemah, Jr. Donald B. Stewart (2001) (1999) (1999) (20O0) (2000) STEVENS ESTATE, BOARD OF TRUSTEES Albert E Cullen, Esq. E. William Hansen Martha Larson John McGatry, Esq. Richard Reming Marc Torrisi, Esq. John J. Willis, 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 Bra&haw Janet Eaton Karen Robertson Guenter Loesser VETERAN'S AGENT & BURIAL AGENT *** Richard E. LaHaye (2000) (2000) YOUTH SERVICES BOARD OF DIRECTORS ** Peter Breen, Chairman (1999) William Buck (1999) Joyce A. Bradshaw (2000) Peter Coco (2000) David Rand (2000) Brenda Clark (2001) Vincent Valentino (2001) Ex Officio: Donald B. Stewart, Selectman David Torrisi, Selectman Tracy Casfiglione, Police Department Richard Oorman, Youth Services Director ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS ** William J. Sullivan, Chairman John Pallone Robert Ford Walter Soule Raymond Vivenzio Scott Karpinski, Associate George Early, Associate Ellen McIntyre, Associate (2000) (1999) (2000) (2OOl) (2001) (1999) (200O) (2OOl) * Elected Official ** Appointed by Selectmen *** Appointed by Town Manager **** Appointed by Town Moderator Report of the Board of Selectmen and Town Manager Fiscal Stability through Sound Financial Planning In 1998 the Town met its goal of remaining within its approved expenditure budget. It accom- plished this despite overruns in the areas of winter snow and ice operations and group health in- surance. These budgets are areas where the Town remains vulnerable to conditions beyond its control--inclement weather and large medical claims--and are budgets that have typically been funded at levels below our normal, average experience over the years. For instance, while the average winter over the past four or five years resulted in total expenditures for snow and ice op- erations of $375,000 to $400,000, the Town has typically budgeted only $150,000 to $200,000. These shortfalls, by state law, must then be raised out of the following fiscal year revenues. For- tunately, for the first time in several years the Town had expenditure surpluses in other such "con- tingency" accounts that covered these shortfalls. In the years ahead we will continue a gradual transition to funding more adequate budgets in these areas. Unfortunately, on the other hand, the Town fell somewhat short of meeting its revenue budget largely due to a decline in water revenues, investment income, and ambulance fees. We were there- for forced to cover this net shortfall with a combination of budget reductions and transfers from Free Cash and Water Surplus. In the year ahead the Selectmen and Town Manager have taken the following steps to improve the financial stability of the Town's operations: · Significantly increased funding in the Group Health Insurance account to improve our ability to handle unexpected claims activity and increasing insurance costs. This will avoid the po- tential of further deficits in this area. · Negotiated an across the board change in the employee contribution rates for the Blue Cross Blue Shield Master Health Plus from 35% to 50% of the premium cost. The expected budget savings from this change are $50,000 to $100,000 per year. · Continued a policy of conservative use of long term debt with the goal of reducing future prin- cipal and interest payments on such debt as early as Fiscal Year 2002. · In preparing the Budget Message and Goals for FY 2000 we have purposely employed very conservative estimates of revenue in order to prevent the types of revenue shortfalls experi- enced in FY 1998 and assure that we increase our bottom-line financial reserves. Financial Reserves and Stabilization Fund Goals The Town of North Andover has less than $1.0 million in available cash to provide cash flow and reserves for its operations. This is woefully inadequate given the $48.0 million budget with which we are working. To put this in perspective, this amount provides approximately one week's worth of cash flow. In terms of a home owner, it means that our check book balance allows the Town to live only from week to week. When an emergency or unexpected event occurs, we be- gin "robbing Peter to pay Paul" and other short term solutions to make ends meet. This creates an atmosphere of short term, crisis oriented management which is certainly not in the best interests of a growing dynamic community like North Andover. The rule of thumb for communities in Massachusetts is that we should have financial reserves of approximately 5% of its annual budget. This means we should have between $2.0 and $2.5 million in reserves. This mount provides approximately five weeks of cash flow. The Selectmen and Town Manager have established a goal of achieving approximately $2.0 million in reserves by June 30, 2001. Economic Development Goals The Town of North Andover and the City of Lawrence reached an innovative and mutually beneficial agreement to codevelop approximately 50 acres of surplus land at the Lawrence Mu- nicipal Airport. The airport is located entirely in the Town of Noah Andover and is tax exempt. The City had little financial incentive to develop the surplus property since the proceeds of the sale of the land would revert to the Federal Aviation Administration. The City and Town have entered into a memorandum of agreement whereby the two communities will share the tax rev- enues, net of North Andover's costs of services, on a fifty-fifty basis. We are currently seeking legislative approval of the tax sharing arrangement. The Master Plan Committee and the Director of Community Development are likewise pur- suing the long range traffic management and economic development plan for Route 114 in order to pursue community development opportunities along that corridor. Host Community Issues A considerable amount of activity occurred in 1998 at two significant regional, environmen- tal service facilities located in North Andover. The regional trash-to-energy, sometimes referred to as the NESWC incinerator, began the local permit process to construct the air pollution con- trol retrofit required to comply with the 1990 amendments of the federal Clean Air Act. There is overwhelming interest in North Andover to close the facility rather than have it retrofitted to meet the stricter air standards. In the absence of any commitment from federal or state regulators the closure of the plant was likely given the technology that is available to meet the new standards, our local development review boards used the local regulatory process to impose a wide range of conditions and financial requirements that will allow the Town to better monitor the impacts of the plant and to force compliance with local traffic routes for trash tracks established through permit process. The Town also negotiated a host community agreement which over time will phase-in long absent supplemental financial payments to North Andover as host community. These supple- mental payments will reach $250,000 per year by 2005 and will be on par with the supplement payments paid to other such host communities. The Greater Lawrence Sanitary District, which operates a regional 30 million gallon per day waste water treatment plant also located in North Andover, is entering into a public private de- signfouild/opemte contract with the New England Fertilizer Co. to transform the solid sludge left over after the waste water treatment process into fertilizer. The residual sludge is currently dis- posed of at a landfill at great expense to the District communities. The contract with New En- gland Fertilizer will save an estimated $1.5 million per year in disposal costs. Noah Andover will benefit from 11% per cent of these savings. Unfortunately, North Andover does not receive ei- ther a Payment in Lieu of Taxes or a host community fee from the district. We hope that we will be able to negotiate such a payment for this 98 acre site, which if developed as an industrial prop- erty would otherwise generate $275,000 per year in property taxes. At a minimum we have adopted a local by-law whereby the New England Fertilizer Co. will pay a sludge processing fee to the Town of approximately $165,000. Capital Improvement Plan and Building Program Last, the Town Manager attempted to outline a comprehensive financial plan and time line for moving forward with a significant list of community investments which are required in build- ings and facilities. These projects include: · Either a new or substantially renovated North Andover High School · New combined Police/Fire Complex to replace the antiquated downtown fire station and the overcrowded and obsolete Police Station. · Renovated and expanded Town Office Building Downtown, utilizing the space in the old fire station · A new sub fire station in the Boxford St./Foster St. area. · Expanded youth athletic and recreation facilities · Investments and improvements needed in the future as the Town prepares for the eventual con- struction of a new elementary school at the Foster Farm parcel. Working Together for North Andover's Future If there is a single success in 1998 that bears repeating it is the successful acquisition of the Foster Farm parcel. This acquisition is a case study in how we as town officials can work together in a proactive manner. This beautiful parcel ranked high on both the open space parcels priority list and was also identified as the only site available for a future elementary school in the Out Country area of North Andover in the future. The Selectmen and Town Manager began the pro- cess of building a shared purpose and vision for acquiring this parcel in September 1997. A spe- cific plan was in place by January 1998. Before the trustee had placed the parcel on the market, the Town was able to negotiate a very advantageous purchase price. The project was approved at the May annual town meeting and subsequently excluded from proposition two and a half at a June election. The parcel became the property of the Town in August for an outstanding value of $1,850,000. The Selectmen and Town Manager wish to thank all of the various town officials, volunteers, managers and employees who contributed to our progress in 1998. To our residents we appreci- ate your patience and understanding as we continue to work on our more difficult and longer stand- ing problems. If we continue our efforts together we will clearly build a strong future for Noah Andover. BO^RD oF ~m,P. CTMEN Tow~ MA~AO~R WmL~,M B. Duvvy Jotm R. LEEMAN DONALD B. S~w~ J~ES M. ~A~S ROBERT I-IA~flN Report of the Finance Committee The Finance Committee is a nine member volunteer board appointed by the Town Moderator to monitor the Town's finances. The Committee, consisting of a diverse group of citizens, reviews ali aspects of municipal finance, revenues, budget, and capital projects on behalf of all the-Town's citizens. The Finance Committee is the official fiscal overseer. The Committee meets regularly throughout the year to monitor the progress of the budget as voted at Town Meeting. Committee members also meet with the Town departments to review their budgets and financial considerations. Based on detail review and analysis, the Finance Commit- tee makes recommendations that will, in their opinion, best balance the needs of the community with the expected revenues. These recommendations are usually made, but not exclusively, at Town Meeting. Financial Policy The Board of Selectmen, School Committee and Finance Committee have adopted a series of financial objectives to help the Town to better serve the community and ensure a stronger finan- cial position. Some of the major areas addressed are · Precise forecasting and budgeting of revenues; · Establishing and maintaining of financial reserve accounts of 2% to 4% of revenues; · An operating budget in which operating expenses are truly recognized in the year they are in- cuned and completely balanced by operating revenues in that year; · Allocating 2% to 3% of revenues to its annual capital to maintain infrastructure; · Control of long-term debt to 4% to 6% of net tax revenues; · Maintain water and sewer as a Public Enterprise. The Financial Policies were recognized in fiscal year 1998, but were not fully realized due to continuing lack of revenue relative to the Town's needs and expenses. Fiscal Year 1998 Summary The May 1997 Annual Town Meeting voted a total budget of $44,726,624.00. The largest single revenue source available to the Town government is property taxes. A summary of property taxes is stated as follows: · Property Tax Base Levy · 2 + Increment · Levy from New Growth · General Service Override · Maximum Property Tax Levy · Excluded Debt Service $25,317,758 $632,944 $981,193 $1,346,000 $28,277,895 $1,187,379 Total Property Taxes $29,463,506 Additional Revenue Services · State Revenues $5,242,472 · Local Non-Property Tax Revenue $12,047,027 · Other Available $951,705 Fiscal Year 1998 proved to be a year of f'mancial accomplishments and set backs for the Town of North Andover. The Town continues to stmggle with the inability to continue with the current level of services with the expected revenues even with the $1.3 million override passed at the May 1997 Town Meeting. The override was designed to meet certain depadaiental budget shortfalls in Fiscal Year 1998 and was not sufficient to provide for future revenue to expense shortfalls. Budget ConStraints and Setbacks Arguably, the most disturbing f'mancial shortfalls for the Town of North Andover in 1998 were · Difficulty in accurately forecasting revenues. This was particularly evident in the Water En- terprise where billing usage was down due in part to weather and aging meters resulting in a revenue shortfall of $736,000. Miscellaneous local receipts, such as Ambulance service fees and investment income, were also less than anticipated by $530,000. Monies in part from Free Cash and unexpended departmental appropriations were used to make up the difference fur- ther depleting the Town's reserve funds; · Depleting Reserve Funds--For the second year in a row, reserve funds were depleted from a high of 5.9% of general fund revenues in 1996, to 3.7% in 1997, to below policy minimum of 2% or approximately $800,000; · Lower Bond Rating--In August of 1998, Standard & Poor lowered its rating on the Town's General Obligation bond to a single "A-" from a single "A' rating; stating in part the "Town's consistent difficulties in obtaining and maintaining a financial cushion, and a demonstrated pat- tern of aggressively optmisfic revenue forecasting, leaves North Andover vulnerable to op- erational uncertainties." Moody's remained the same at A3 but did however issue stem warnings to the Town particularly in the area of the need for a stabiliza6on account as well as a level of reserves of 2% to 4% of the revenues; · Insufficient funds to support needs identified by departments in Town; · School population growth impacting operational expenses and impacting class size; ° Increasing costs associated with mandated Education Reform and student MCAS testing; · Increasing costs of Special Education; · Lack of financial resources to deal with increasing demands caused by unfunded or partially funded mandates; i.e., Americans with Disabilities Act; · Solid waste disposal fees; · Modest commercial tax base and growth; · Insufficient funds available for capital expenses to maintain infrastructure. Town and Budget Accomplishments · Middle School renovation completed in 1998, on time and on budget; · New Thomson elementary school scheduled to open February 1999, on time and on budget for which voters approved a debt exclusion referendum; · Acquisition of the Foster Farm land for a future elementary school, other municipal uses, and for the conservation of open space; · Signing of the Host Community Agreement with Wheelabrator resulting in a payment in lieu of taxes of $500,000 to a tipping fee stabilization fund from the site operator that would stabi- lize the Town trash fee to approximately $90 per ton. The agreement also pays $25,000 for on- site inspections to monitor the plant's safety; · Commercial development expanded particularly in the areas of Route 114 and Route 125 of- feting a wide range of stores and businesses, one of which being Stop & Shop which enhances the commercial tax base; · An agreement was also reached between North Andover and the City of Lawrence for expan- sion around the airport, offering a 50/50 sharing of tax revenue. Costs incurred for support services (police, rue, plowing) will be incurred by the City of Lawrence; · More realistic budgeting of health care insurance and snow removal costs; · Funding of the Police Arbitration award and bringing the North Andover patrolmen into a mid- range pay scale to similar communities; · Major Facilities Working Group was formed to develop a clear plan for the Town's capital needs. Various members from all departments met regularly and developed a long range plan priori- tizing and outlining all future capital projects. Financial Future North Andover continues to be a highly desirable community in which to live, evident in home sales being up 11% from the previous year, property values rising 15.7% from 1997 to 1998, with the median price of a home at $353,000. Our greatest asset and source of revenue is our residen- tial properties, but with that comes an expected level of services for our citizens. As stated in the results of the Master Plan survey done in 1997, issues that were of the highest priority were edu- cation, preservation of open space and rural character, quality Town services, quality government, and proper planning. If we do not continue to meet these expectations, property values could suf- fer resulting in a declining tax base. It is, therefore, imperative that we accurately forecast our revenues and budget, build up our reserves to restore or increase our bond rating in order to keep borrowing costs down, and maintain our infrastructure. With expenditures continuing to grow faster than revenues, current service levels cannot be maintained without additional revenue. Respectfully Submitted, NORm ANOOVER FINANCE CoMMrrtv_,E ROSEMARY SMEDILE, CHAIRMAN P~R NORTH, VIcE-CR^IRM^N MICHAEL BUBAR MmHAEL (~ARRON PETER PHELPS POLLY PYLE ALERE~) RUSSO WmLIAM WHITTAKER The Division of Administration and Finance includes the Depa~h~lents of Town Accountant, Treasurer/Collectors Office, Assessors Office, Management Information Director, and that of the Office of the Town Clerk. It is the financial and information hub of Town government. As Direc- tor, our challenge is always to provide a better level of customer service to our residents. The le- gal compliance issues are always central to the collection and reporting process. The setting of the tax rate, maintenance of property and assessment records and maps, producing and process- ing weekly payrolls, payments and processing of all Town bills and payments, collection of all revenue, and Information Technology programs is a daunting task. Providing information, tech- nology updates, successful audits, and prompt attention to our customers is our goal. The plan- ning of the Annual Town Budget and financial planning for the Town requires extensive involvement with the dedicated members of the Finance Committee. Our goal to provide the high- est level of service is made possible by the dedicated Depamnent Heads and their hard-working staffs. Report of the Assessors Office The Assessors Office is in the process of converting to a new Y2K Compliant Computer system with enhancements to better serve the public. The process of digitizing and updating ex- isting maps for subsequent incorporation into a GIS is also progressing. The mutual sharing of data is a joint project with other Town departments that will bring about better consistency of information on a town-wide basis. The process of appeals, processing exemptions, the continu- ous updating of records and new growth, and assisting citizens and all customers would not be possible without the expertise and cooperation of my entire staff. GARRETT C. BOLES CHIEF AsSESSOR Aggregate value of real estate - 12 month Aggregate value of personal property Real estate tax levy - 12 months Personal property tax levy - 12 months Residential rate per thousand C.I.R rate per thousand Water lien (from tax collector) Sewer lien (from tax collector) Interest (water) (from tax collector) $2,038,330,700.00 $51,277,894.00 $28,625,111.97 $838,906.57 $13.60 $16.35 $144,d~.45 $87,715.56 $16,867.23 Betterment with Interest Chapter 380 (sewer) Chapter 40 (water) Commited interest (sewer) $76,941.12 Commited interest (water) $363.00 Meter $11,042.38 Traffic lights $108.90 $532.50 $18,225.56 Motor Vehicle Bills and Tax $ Committed to Collector in FY 97 Num taxed 1996 vehicles 222 1997 vehicles 5496 1998 vehicles 21,746 Levy of vehidestaxed $19,684.50 $599,622.30 $2,426,888.17 Buildings and Vacant Land Assessed Single family 5718 Condominiums 1254 Misc. res. 26 Two family 476 Three family 43 Four-eight family 46 Vacent land 768 Residential/commercial 60 Commercial buildings and land 409 Industrial buildings and land 84 Personal property accounts 882 Chapter 61-forest property 5 Chapter 61 a-farm property 137 Chapter 61b-recreational land accounts 4 Exempt buildings and land 380 Public utilities 3 Report of the Town Accountant The Office of the Town Accountant is the financial processing center for the Town. Payroll, Accounts Payable, Audits, and providing the necessary statutory functions is a far-reaching func- tion. A new Financial Management System has brought about many challenges and will allow better analysis and efficiency of processing. My thanks go to my devoted staff who have tirelessly supported these efforts and provide a high level of assistance to me, all Town Departments, and the Citizens of North Andover. Report of the financial operations for the fiscal year beginning June 30, 1998 are as follows: At the May 1997 town meeting members approved the fiscal year 1998 budget for the Town. The results of the May 1997 town meeting and transfers at the May 1998 town meeting are as follows: Fiscal Year 1998 General Public Government Safety F, ducation ATM Article 7 (ATM) Salaries ATM Article (ATM) Expenses With Override Provision Library Offset Reserve Fund Art 12 Article 8/3 Radio Replacement Article Article Article Article Article Article Article Article 8/4 Police Computer Technology 8/10 New Tech/Infrastxucture 8/12 Public Works Equipment 8/15 Bradstreet Ceilings/Lights 8/19 Franklin School PH II 8/22 Tech Infraslmcture/Equip 8/12 GAC filter replacement 8/24 Cross Correction Total Original Town Meeting Vote Transfers Town Meeting May 98 Article 14 from Free Cash May 98 Reserve Fund Transfers COLA transfers COLA transfers 1,869,597.00 4,280,879.00 16,014,570.00 777,496.00 472,336.00 4,572,584.00 170,000.00 256,553.00 426,000.00 (21,115.00) 2,837,978.00 5,009,768.00 184,500.00 109,000.00 277,000.00 30,650.00 (95,044.08) 95,044.08 21,125,371.00 2,958,083.92 5,490,812.08 21,155,371.00 Public Fixed Works Expenses Reserve Tax Levy Transfer to Fund Special Articles Other Funds Totals 1,585,429.00 10,544,000.00 3,776,297.00 5,361,371.00 10,544,000.00 (31,000.00) (262,500.00) 44,047,405.00 852,553.00 (21,115.00) 75,000.00 57,762.00 57,762.00 21,210.00 21,210.00 57,080.00 57,080.00 153,000.00 153,000.00 9375.00 9375.00 27,900.00 27,900.00 127,400.00 127,400.00 60,000.00 60,000.00 25,000.00 25,000.00 75,000~00 538,727.00 45,482,570.00 (62,775.00) 2125.00 277,000.00 5,330,726.00 10,281,500.00 12,225.00 538,727.00 2125.00 45,769,570.00 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS AtrmORlZ~ Article 8 Sidewalk Construction Article 8 ADA Phase 1II Kittredge Sch Article 8 Replace 6 Underground Tanks Article 8 Water Main Rehabilitation Article 8 New Thomson School Article 26 Youth Center 200,00.00 256,000.00 223,000.00 650,000.00 8,4OO,O0O.OO 525,0O0.00 10,254,000.00 On June 30, 1997, the long term debt balance outstanding was $35,231,833.99. During the fiscal year 1998, the Town entered into long term debt borrowing in the amount of $29,173,000.00, refinanced $3,315,000.00 and retired the amount of $2,586,584.00. These transactions resulted in an outstanding long term debt balance as of June 30, 1997 in the amount of $35,231,833.99. Respectfully submitted, LAURIE A. ELLIOTr Tow~ Accou~^~ Report of the Treasurer-Tax Collector The Treasurer/Collector's Office is responsible for collecting revenue for the Town including real estate and personal property taxes, water and sewer bills, excise tax bills, as well as main- taining records of retirees' health insurance. Excise tax bills are issued once per year per vehicle, while real estate, personal property, and water/sewer bills are issued quarterly. Currently, we are implementing a new computer system to process these bills, as well as the miscellaneous revenue which is collected in the office. Once converted, this will allow for en- hanced billing and report generation. Training has begun on the excise module, with other bill- ings to follow shortly. We expect to be fully converted to this Y2K compliant system by July 1, 1999. Thanks for a job well done to all the staff in the Treasurer-Collector's office. ROBERTA MCGOWAN ASSISTANT TREASURER Tax Collector As Tax Collector, I submit my report for the 12 months ending June 30, 1998: SUMMARY OF COLOR'S RECEIPTS Motor Vehicle Excise 1998 Motor Vehicle Excise 1997 Motor Vehicle Excise 1996 Motor Vehicle Excise 1995 Motor Vehicle Excise 1994 Motor Vehicle Excise 1993 & prior Real Estate 1998 Real Estate 1997 Real Estate 1996 Real Estate 1993 Personal Property 1998 Personal Property 1997 Personal Property 1996 Personal Property 1995 Personal Property 1994 Personal Property 1993 Personal Property 1992 & prior Farm Animal Excise 1998 Farm Animal Excise 1997 Sewer Liens/Assessments 1998 Sewer Liens/Assessments 1997 Sewer Liens/Assessments 1996 Water Liens/Assessments 1998 Water Liens/Assessments 1997 Water Liens/Assessments 1996 Traffic Light Betterment 1998 Traffic Light Betterment 1997 $2,165,740.22 621,906.20 31,815.14 4,021.17 1,331.15 5,784.28 28,028,020.18 324,798.38 915.80 57.69 837,304.33 2,4a. 0.72 389.61 93.27 90.30 87.91 187.50 137.00 1,211.26 76,110.85 9,038.00 296.33 109,846.98 9,726.74 260.36 18, 169.73 548.78 Payment in Lieu of Taxes Tax Title Rollback Taxes Water Lien Interest Water Lien Interest Water Lien Interest Water Lien Interest Committed Interest Water Rates, etc. Sewer Rates, etc. Municipal Lien Certificates Interest on Taxes Tax Title Interest Water/Sewer Releases 1998 1998 1998 1998 1997 1996 1995 1998 1998 1998 1998 1998 1998 1996 22,422.87 296,758.41 3,635.94 12,883.76 1,426.21 27.81 2,342.10 11,028.03 2,976,915.68 1,816,415.23 48,940A5 103,313.72 70,624.31 180.00 $37,617,243.40 Town Treasurer As Town Treasurer, I submit my report for the 12 months ending June 30, 1998: Balance on Hand, July 1, 1997 Receipts for Fiscal 1998 $18,029,451.33 95,594,306.99 $113,623,758.32 Disbursements for Fiscal 1998 96,777,159.23 Balance, June 30, 1998 $16,846,599.09 RECONCILIATION OF CASH Boston Safe Deposit M.M.D.T. Century Bank Lockbox State Street Bank Eastern Bank Fleet Bank BayBank - Escrow BayBank 2,974,028.29 5,845,018.90 23,399.89 595,174.46 758,031.03 1,330,667.86 3,715,589.90 1,604,688.76 $16,846,599.09 UNCOLLECTED BALANCF3--Jt~E 30, 1998 Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 $358,229.49 $31,812.00 (3,993.65) (9,898.62) 1.24 Personal Property Personal Property Personal Property Personal Property Personal Property Motor Vehicle Excise Motor Vehicle Excise Motor Vehicle Excise Motor Vehicle Excise Motor Vehicle Excise Respectfully submitted, Kevl~ E IVI~t~o~v, Dm~c-ro~ Dmls~o~ o~ Fma~c~ 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 (5,865.53) 4,565.37 4,805.88 3,501.28 3,138.74 199,103.60 31,330.43 24,685.39 16,546.00 15,534.66 Report of the Town Clerk The Office of the Town Clerk was indeed a busy place in 1998. Our efforts commence in January with our Dog Licensing Program. The initiation of having all our dog owners send pictures of their pets not only brought outstanding compliance, but allowed us all to enjoy proud North Andover dogs. Our goal is to have all dogs licensed. This is especially important for rabies vac- cination, protection for owners, and most of all to be able to better reunite lost pets with their owners. The "Running for Office" Seminar was a joint effort with the Andover Town Clerk's Office. This is an annual prelude to our Town Election, held on the first Tuesday in March. The 1998 Election witnessed final results broadcast live on Cable Channel 3 by 8:30 P.~n. We axe always pleased that our AccuVote machines perform so well and give us accurate results so quickly. Our successful candidates were Keith A. Mitchell as our Selectman for three years, Nancy Gaffny Rullo replacing David Carney on the School Committee, and Helen Soucy returned to the Housing Au- thority. As always, such success in this and all our elections is a direct result of the poll workers and my loyal Board of Registrars - Leo Lafond, Helen Tacy, and Mary Windle. A Special Town Meeting on March 23, 1998 did not convene and was part of the Annual Town Meeting held May 11, 1998 and May 12, 1998. We are actively involved with preparing the An- nual Town Meeting Warrant and Report of the Finance Committee. This task was especially com- plex in 1998 with over 28 Town Meeting Articles needing Attorney General Submission. The preparation, recommendations, and f'mal presentation to the voters would not be so successful without the efforts of the Board of Selectmen, Finance Committee, Planning Board, and School Committee whose tireless efforts make our Legislative process work. Our thanks must always go to the participants who take time from their busy schedules to attend and complete the process. Charles Salisbury, our Moderator, makes the Town Meeting run efficiently and smoothly. His expertise, hours of preparation, and meticulous attention to detail assure fairness and legality. Our Annual Town Census had over 10,000 forms processed. The direct entry into our State Central Voter Registration system required over 50,000 entries. We are always seeking improve- ment and to maximize Voter Registration and full census participation. Counting our residents means accuracy for planning for schools, government needs, economic development, and service delivery. The month of June had two Special Elections. The successful ratification of funding for the Foster Farm purchase was held June 9, 1998. The acquisition of the so-called Renshaw Property was defeated on June 23,1998. Signature certification for the State Election offices, Town Election candidates, Initiative Pe- tition signatures, Referendum Signatures pushed all our resources through the summer. The Sep- tember 1998 State Primary Election is particularly challenging because of 12 different ballots for three patties and four distinct voting districts for each. This complex election was combined with Special Town Meeting preparations. The Special Town Meeting required two separate Monday nights to complete the necessary business. For lack of a quorum, despite diligent efforts to adver- tise and encourage participation, necessary business was postponed from October 19,1998 until October 26, 1998. The State Election was held November 3, 1998. A 53% Voter Turnout - 9,280 Voters went to the polls and another successful election saw weeks of preparation. Thanks must go to the won- dedul school custodians who make the day possible. Selectman David M. Torrisi was elected to replace Donna Fournier Cuomo as State Representative for the 14th Essex District. Our office wishes to thank Donna for all her help and cooperation to us. Representative Bradley Jones was elected for precincts 4 and 5. James P. Jagnga and Bruce Tarr were reelected to serve North Andover in the State Senate. The active election and Town Meeting schedule does not eliminate our statutory obligations. We pride ourselves on offering immediate access to Vital Record copies. We value our citizens time and are pleased to provide this service to them. Our Office recorded 295 deaths, 145 mar- riages, and 355 births for calendar year 1998. The precise nature and scope of these recordings and resulting certifications becomes more challenging as regulations and procedures are constantly changing. The Office of the Town Clerk also processes all Licenses for the Board of Selectmen in their role as Licensing Authority. We have established a mutual reporting program with our Police Department to assure that proper TIPS certifications are maintained for Liquor licenses. Innova- tions and a constant effort to automate is our ongoing mission. Janet Eaton, Assistant Town Clerk has been the driving force behind the licensing automation in addition to performing all our var- ied duties. I must thank her for her tireless efforts along with Virginia Sullivan. Their efforts, sup- port, and encouragement make my governmental role possible. They allow me to participate in Town Clerk seminars, the Legislative Committee for the Massachusetts Town Clerk's Associa- tion, and attend the International Institute of Municipal Clerks at Salve Regina College. The su- preme efforts of all Town Departments, Elected and Appointed Boards, Town Manager Robert J. Halpin make our task possible. A special thank-you to our Division Director Kevin E Mahoney who is always supportive to our initiatives. The spirit of cooperation, dedication, and competence allow us to deliver such a high level of service with often limited financial and space resources. Their devotion to duty and the wonderful residents and visiotrs who pass through our Office each year make our task so enjoyable. It is indeed a pleasure to serve the people of the Town of North Andover. My thanks to you all as we look forward to another successful year. Respectfully submitted, JOYCE A. BRA~S~AW TOWN CLERK Management Information Systems The task of the Management Information Systems Director has been to network all Town Departments and be instrumental in the implementation of a Financial Management system. The interaction between Departments and Town Agencies to provide technical and support services will allow better use of technology. The goal of my department is to continue to upgrade technol- ogy, establish central data sharing,and improve communication to our residents. Innovative use of systems will allow more efficient processing and allow better departmental service to the Com- munity. I wish to thank all Departments for their cooperation and assistance. Respectfully submitted, JOHN FEROUSON MIS DIRECTOR 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 persormel records for the con- servation, 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 1998 the Community Development De- partment expanded the prior role of management oversight to include project management and public facilities development. Past Year Overview The 1998 Activity chart indicates the time allocation of the department for the calendar year. Over 60 percent of the office time were expended on facilities and planning projects. Over 25 percent of time were expended on Administration and Management services to the various de- partments. These services include payroll, personnel reviews and budget oversight. Of the Project category the facilities projects comprised the greatest amount of time. Some of the projects ac- complished are as follows: Master Plan: Osgood Hill: Complete Goals and Objectives and began work on the recommendations. Together the opportunities created by the Community Development Of- rice through the Massachusetts Historic Commission, a $85,000 grant, and Massachusetts Development Finance Agency, $25,000 grant, will create opportunities for immediate building stabilization and long range reuse planning. The M_HC grant is underway and roof constmction will be eom- Senior Center: Youth Center: Public Safety Combined Facility: Fire Substation: Capital Facilities: Johnson Street Fire Station: pleted in April of 1999. The department I assisting the Trustees in devel- opment of Capital Improvements plan for the Estate. Completed the construction for the expansion of the center doubling the size. The expansion was funded by a $583,000 State grant applied for by Community Development. Coordinated the feasibility study and permitting for the new Youth Cen- ter. The department will work with the Building Committee to establish the budget and final plans with the Architect. A summer 1999 bid is ex- pected. Coordinated and completed a feasibility study and capital improvement scenario assessment for a proposed joint public safety facility. Coordinated and completed a feasibility study and capital improverc~nt scenario assessment for an out-country Fire substation. Assisted the Town Manager and Finance Director in developing a com- prehansive facilities assessment providing multiple scenarios for facilities needs. Assisted the Fire department in completing the design and selecting a contractor for the replacement of driveways at the second Fire Station. Spring 1999 construction is anticipated. Respectfully submitted, WtLLtnM J. Sccrrr DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & SERVICES Report of the Animal Inspector During the past fiscal year, I have inspected the animal and stabling conditions on the two remaining dairy farms. I also visited the eight equine boarding facilities in North Andover to inspect the animals and general conditions. Twelve calls were made to inspect backyard horses, sheep, goats, and chickens. Health cer- tificates were issued to the aforementioned farms and premises. Twenty-seven dogs and cats were quarantined as rabies suspects. Twelve dogs and cats were quarantined as rabies suspects. An encounter with a rabid skunk resulted in a quarantine of five months for a dog. The dog's owners received rabies prophylaxis. The Rabies Clinic, held every year at the Olde Centre Fire Station on the second Saturday in May from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M., resulted in 42 dogs and cats being vaccinated. Respectfully submitted, ROBERT E. ATWOOD, D.M. Report of the Board of Appeals The Board of Appeals held 12 regular meetings and 2 special meetings. The Board held hear- ings on 21 Special Permits, 42 Variances, 4 Party Aggrieved. The Board of Appeals holds its regular meetings on the second Tuesday of every month at 7:30 e.M. unless otherwise advertised. RespectfuUy sUbmitted, WmrJaM J. Sulxxv^~q, C~^mMA~q WArrant SOULE, V~C~. CHAmP. MAN R~x~ao~ Vrv~z~o, Ctrm~ Ro~sax FoP, v Jo}ua PAtJ~O~r Associate Members Scow Kam,msra E~v.u McIm'v~ GEORGE EARLEY Recording Secretary Ivln~.¥ L~¥-hn, otxro Report of the Board of Health The North Andover Board of Health is a three-member board comprised of volunteers ap- pointed by the Town Manager for three-year, overlapping terms. The Board generally meets on the fourth Thursday of each month. The Health Depa~b~ent is staffed by a full-time Administra- tor, inspector, and secretary, and a part-time Public Health Nurse. In addition, the Department bas this year been assisted by two Senior Aides from Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley. The Board of Health and its staff are responsible for the enforcement of the State Sanitary and Environmental Codes, the reporting of diseases dangerous to the public health, and the enforce- ment of other applicable state and local laws and regulations created to protect citizens. These regulations cover such diverse areas as housing, food safety, air and water quality, sewage dis- posal, animal and insect control, lead poison control, occupational safety and health, nuisances, communicable diseases and immunizations; in short, all laws that relate to the safety, health and welfare of the general public. The Board of Health through the Health Department also offers a comprehensive network of services to address such issues as childhood immunizations for the underinsured, tobacco use and education, vaccine distribution to providers, home visits to shut ins, water sampling of Stevens Pond, and education of food handlers. This year the Board of Health again offered the free Influenza Clinics in the fall, adding a fourth evening clinic; sponsored the annual Rabies Clinic in May; sponsored a Certified Food Handler training; held Hepatitis clinics for at-risk town employees, and offered two tetanus clinics to se- nior citizens. In an effort to respond in a more timely manner to environmental issues, the Board hired a consultant to handle some of the work involving septic systems. Permits Issued by the Board of Health between January 1,1998 and December 31,1998 Food Service Retail Food Limited Retail Home Cooks Mobile Food Trucks Disposal Works Construction Disposal Works Installers Design Approval permits Animal permits Funeral Director's Licenses Recreational camps 95 Swimming pools 12 9 Offal/Trash haulers 42 16 Suntanning establishments · 2 7 Massage Therapy/Establishment 19 5 License 90 Site Testing permits 67 39 Dumpster permits 118 68 Burial permits 95 12 Tobacco Sale Permits 27 4 Subdivision Plan Reviews 6 11 Frozen Dessert Licenses 7 The Board of Health continues to act progressively on issues which pose potential haz- ards to North Andover residents and welcomes the assistance and input of all residents. Respectfully submitted, GAYTON OSGOOD, CHAIRMAN JOHN S. RXZZA, D.M.D., CLERK FHANC[S P. MAclVImLA~, M.D., SANDRA STARR, HEALTH ADMINISTRATOR D~BRA RU~AXAN, R.N. SUSAN FO~,D, I~se~xOR CAROL J. PAWELS~a, SECRETARY Report of the Building Department The following comparison table indicates construction activity remained at a steady pace for the Fiscal Year 1998. The permitting process and inspection 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. Permits Issued New Dwelling, 1 &2 Family Residential Additions & Alteration New Commercial & Industrial Building Commercial & Industrial Addition & Alterations Dormitories & Educational Building Re-roofing & Vinyl Siding Pools Garage & Sheds Miscellaneous (Signs, Demolition, Chimney, Stoves) FY98 FY97 72 139 209 211 17 10 39 76 3 4 117 138 23 16 29 14 86 75 Total building, sign permits fees--FY98 $604,232.88 Plumbing Permits Gas Permits Electrical Permit 318 505 294 431 493 808 Total electric, gas, plumbing permits fees--FY98 $150,457.00 Certificte of inspection fees $399.00 Occupancy permits issued Respectfully Submitted, D. ROBERT N~c~ ha, BtrlLDINO COMMISSIONER & ZONING F__~IFORCEMENT OFFICERS I~NNETH SUR/a-I-[Ia, LOCAL INSPECTOR JAMES L. D~oz7~, PLUMBING & GAS INS~R JnM~s D~CoL^, EL~'Za~;C_AL INSVP~'rOR JEAtqrqm~ McEvo¥, SF~CR~r^RY Report of the Conservation Department and Commission The Conservation Commission is comprised of seven (7) volunteer members who arc 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. 131, 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- lng public health and safety interests: 1. Protection of public and private water supplies; 2. Protection of Ground Water Supply; 3. Flood Control; 4. Storm Damage Prevention; 5. Prevention of Pollution; 6. Protection of Fisberies; 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 review and a permit from the Conservation Commission. In November of 1997, the Massachu- setts 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 through- out North Andover. Past Year Overview 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 thirty (30) public heatings, issued thirty-three (33) Determinations of Applicability (positive and/or negative combined) and fifty-five (55) 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 responsibilities under the Act and local ByLaw, the Conservation Commission completed the following projects: 1. 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 Cochicbewick Watershed Protection issues. 2. Completed a land use management plan for Town Farm & Forest using an $8,000 grant ac- qnired in 1998. 3. In conjunction with the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission, an "11 x 17" laminated trail map for Town Farm was created. 4. Reinstalled "beaver pipes" and, in conjunction with the Massachusetts Division of Fisberies & Wildlife, Department of Public Works and local citizen groups, continued to monitor ex- isting beaver ponds and mitigate wildlife impacts. 5. Continued to provide opportunities for Eagle Scouts to complete their required public ser- vice projects including the consmaction 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 Depart- merit continued to work on the $230,000 grant from the Massachusetts Highway Department to evaluate the feasibility of a "Shawsheen Riverway Trail" linking the three communities. 10. Preliminary installation ora Geographic Information System (GIS). During this year we established a into long range planning and project development. The critical wle 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. This year we substantially revised the North Andover Wetland ByLaw and Regulations to accommodate new State regulations and close loopholes. 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 DI%V to incorporate a set of construc- tion standards in accordance with the state "Stormwater Mgmt. Policy." 7. Implemented an educational outreach program with the Annie L. Sargent School Council. 8. On-going projects with the North Andover Trails Committee including anticipated trail maps for Osgood Hill and Mazurenko Farm. Our efforts for the coming year will be focused on four areas of responsibility: Wetland Pro- tection, Watershed Protection, Open Space Planning, and implementation of GIS/Permit Track- ing Software applications. We will continue to work with the Merrimack River Watershed Council and the Bay Circuit Alliance on various trails initiatives. We thank Joseph Mottola for the years of dedicated service to the Commission and are happy to welcome John Mabon to the Conserva- tion Commission. Respectfully submitted, A~ERT P. MANZ~, JR., CHAIRMAN SCOTt MASSE, VICE CItAtRMAN ROBERT L. MANSOUR Bm Wescrrrr DEBORAH FEI.mWC Jom~ MASON JOSEPH LYNCH, JR. 1VI~KE HOWARD, CONSERVATION ADMINISTRATOR Report of the Council on Aging On behalf of the Council on Aging, I am pleased to submit the annual report for the period between January 1, 1998 and December 31,1998. The Senior Center expansion was under con- stmction from January to June. No services or programs were canceled, while the Center was closed for activities during the construction. Special thanks to those in the Community who provided space in their facilities to have made this possible. Fund raising efforts for the expansion were highly successful. As a result, we greatly appreci- ate the generous donations from individuals, businesses, churches and foundations. We were able to purchase all the furniture and equipment for the new site. The Senior Center was officially opened in June. It was a busy, but fruitful year. We are most grateful for the effort, time, energy and support of so many people to create this beautiful Center. With the additional space and increased programming, the Senior Center is a vital part of the lives of seniors in our Community. Throughout the year, Outreach Staff served the most frail, ill and isolated elders living in North Andover. Outreach workers made home and hospital visits, assessed needs and provided support and services. Volunteers provided services at the Senior Center and in the community such as facilitating support groups, assisting students in North Andover schools, providing Telephone Reassurance and Friendly Visitors services for isolated elders, providing Legal and Income Tax Assistance and Medical Transportation. In the past year, 202 volunteers contributed 22,855 hours of services. New volunteers are always being recruited. Many services would not exist without the support of our devoted volunteers. Respectfully submitted. KATHLEEN B. G-ORMAN Dn~cTOe OF ELDER' SERVICES Services and Programs Informational and Referral In Home Services Outreach Clients Telephone Contacts Home and Hospital Visits Health Screening: Cholesterol, Skin, Eye, Hearing, Foot Blood Pressure Clinic Pneumonia and Flu Immunization Wellness and Fimess Programs Community Education Home Delivered Meals Referrals to and from Other Agencies Congregate Meals Family Assistance (Non-Elderly) Legal Aid, Fuel Assistance, Tax Assistance, Housing, Repairs Transportaxion SHINE (Serving Health Insurance for Elders) Newsletter (Quarterly) Social Functions Recreation Drop-In Intergenerational Programs Discount Cards, Homestead Act, Living Will, Health Proxy Forms MBTA Passes, Bay State Discount Forms Radon Awareness Senior/Disabled Tax Relief Program Food Shopping Assistance Widows/Widowers Support Group Friendly Visitors Program Telephone Reassurance Program 19,394 1,464 1,075 2,401 1,032 425 1,374 1,154 1,381 3,169 13,208 670 4,342 200 432 526 62 16,800 2,033 8,642 4,200 508 102 54 15 384 915 5,568 11,136 Board of Directors MARIA ROSATI, CHAIRPERSON ROBERT DIUSCOLL, VICE CHAIRMAN JEAN MUELLER, SECRETARY, TREASURER ADELE McCoNAG~,W ALBERT MOVSESIAN JOANNE PERRY EUGENE TmBODEAU DOMENIC TORRISl NICHOLAS VEbrrltn .i O Report of the Historical Commission During the year 1998, the North Andover Historical Commission continued to work on its long- term project, the restoration and preservation of the stones in the Old Burying Ground on Acad- emy Road. We have hired the Concord, Massachusetts, preservation consultants Fannin & Lehner, experts in stone restoration to do the work. They have already done some preliminary documen- tation on the stones during the fall of 1998 and will begin the actual restoration of the stones in the spring of 1999. The cost of restoring and resetting the 20 documented stones is well over $5000. Monies from the Stevens Foundation and individuals are helping to pay for the cost of the resto- ration. The Commission is still actively seeking donations to complete the whole project. The Commission continues its mission of recording all historic properties in our town. Last year's accomplishment was the documentation and listing of the Stevens Estate at Osgood Hill on the National Registrar of Historic Places. The Historical Commission is grateful to Carol Majahad, director of the North Andover His- torical Society, for her participation and assistance throughout the year as an ex-officio member of the Commission. Respectfully submitted, KATHLEEN SZ'YSKA, PRESIDENT PATRICIA LoNa A~ E~cso~ B~a~ So~s Report of the Planning Department and Board 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 Section 2.30.1 Driveway, 4.125 R-6 Zone, 4.136 Watershed Protection District, 7.2.1 Access, 7.2.2 Frontage Exception, 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. Under M.G.L. Ch. 41, Sec. 81 ,Q The Planning Board is responsible for periodically updat- ing the North Andover Subdivision 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 hearing 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 mount 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. More recently the Department has been involved in creating a long term solution for the sewer overflows on Glenwood Street. 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. Statistical year in review 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 14 298,081 SF 1 2 1 3 lots 13 159 lots Respectfully submitted, Report of the Recreation Department In 1998, the Recreation Department celebrated its 52nd 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 playground at the Middle School. The programs were held Monday through Friday from 9:00 A.M. 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 enjoyed 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 Snnday 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" and other popular performers. Wednesday concerts allow mid-week entertainment throughout the summer. · 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 Methueu, York Beach ex- cursion, Cinderella, Water Country, a Boston Harbor Boat Ride, a ~ip 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 Vueno's Escape Thrills, Jimbo Z the Clown and the mystery of B. J. Hickman's Magic. Children of all ages come to the Common and enjoy the festivities. · A Special Needs Playgound Program at Drummond Park is under the direction of Becky Mor- gan and as always is well attended. This innovative program will grow and progress. Respectfully submitted, WILLIAM P. McEvov, CHAIRMAN BRIAN FINN WILLIAM BLACKS'lOCK JAY McDoN^LD WILLIAM BOUTILLIER WILLIAM McCARTHY JOSEPH WALSH JOANNE LEE Report of the Stevens Memorial Library To the Citizens of North Andover, Massachusetts: The Trustees of the Stevens Memorial Library herewith present their 90th report, which is for the period J.apuary 1, 1998-December 31, 1998. To the Trustees of Stevens Memorial Library: I hereby submit the 90th report of the Director: The library's mission is to provide a center for education, culture, information and recreation. We accomplish this by providing prim and non-print materials, on-line resources and activities and programs to stimulate, expand and enrich the reading and intellectual interests of the entire community. Our Children's staff provides service, materials and activities for: children from the time they are bom through grade six, parents and caregivers, teachers and school librarians, nursery schools, daycare centers and the home schooled. They strive to provide a lifelong love of reading and learn- ing. The programs they have developed for infants, toddlers and preschoolers are essential build- ing blocks for a literate, informed and productive adult. After school, on weekends and during vacations they provide homework help, reference, readers' advisory, programs, activities and a safe environment in which our younger patrons can relax, study or read. For adults we provide up-to-date recreational materials for our reading and viewing public in print & non-print formats, on-going support for the educational needs of students of all ages, support for independent learners in meeting their needs in areas such as business, careers, self~ improvement, health, hobbies, culture, local history, geneology, consumer information, etc. We also serve as a center for community activity whereby we provide social, cultural and recreational programs and activities. We also provide a central location for community groups to meet and share information. The following statistics provide a glimpse of some of our measurable activities: Fiscal year 1997 Calendar year 1998 Acquisitions 3268 4502 Circulation 173,776 174,539 Reserves 2659 3345 Museum Passes 800 867 Inter-Library Loans Sent 2360 2527 Inter-Library Loans Received 2537 2594 Reference Questions Answered 17,481 18,201 Programs Offered 242 290 Program Attendance 4023 5762 Library Usage 140,102 162,312 Meeting Room(s) Usage 520 599 During 1998, Deborah Perlow, a long time Reference Librarian and Susan Babb, our Head of Youth Services, moved on to challenging new positions. We wish them well. Two other reference librarians decided to devote more time to their new babies. But we are very happy that they will continue on as substitutes whenever the need arises. Our new and our more seasoned employees continue to offer prompt, courteous service to our patrons. Over the summer months we added more computers and expanded our Reference Desk to keep up with the ever increasing demands for service and up-to-date information. Six Interact work- stations were made available to the public. (4 for adults and 2 for children) These allow for graphi- cal access to the web and on-line products provided by the library, our consurlium ~d the state. A CD-ROM workstation was also added and is dedicated to genealogical research. Several new CD-ROM titles were added, including American Business Disc, Columbia Granger's Poetry, DISCovering Multicultural America, Grolier's On-Line Encyclopedia and What Do I Read Next?. Don't be shy about asking for help. Not only does our Reference Staff find the perfect print materials for you, they can help you locate your information on the Internet. They've even "bookmarked" some sights to make your search easier. Yunan Guo, our Technology Librarian has training sessions so you can surf the 'net yourself! The coming year promises to be busier than ever with more materials in print and non-print formats, more programs for families and patrons of all ages, and easier access to information through technology. This and more is brought to you by our terrific staff. I thank them for the great job they do and the wonderful service they provide to you, our patrons. We also couldn't do it without the help and support of our volunteers, Friends and Trustees. And most importantly we couldn't do it without all of you, our loyal, wonderful patrons. Keep it up and we'll see you at the library! Respectfully submitted, SUE ELLEN HOLMES, DIRECTOR Report of the Stevens Memorial Library Trustees The Trustees would like to thank Art Larson, Chairman of our Building Committee, for his time and dedication in overseeing the expansion of the Reference Department during the sum- mer of 1998. The results speak for themselves. We'd also like to thank Yunan Guo, our Technol- ogy Librarian, for her efforts in the upgrading of our technology. The results in this area are impressive as well. The Board of Trustees continues to oversee the management of those funds entrusted to them. The Board also takes this opportunity to thank our dedicated staff for their service to the towns- people of North Andover. Your efforts are greatly appreciated. Respectfully submitted, M~m'aA SALISBURY, CHAIR Amar~ L~sorq, TREASURER WmLIAM HICKEY, SECRETARY Wn. Jan~ B. Dupe-v, JR. E. WmL~ Iq_n~SEN PemR L^~OND M~¥ Et~En Osaooo Endowment Fund Income Account Activity - 7/I/97 to 6/30/98 Reported Endowment Fund Income Balance - 7/1/97 Receipts From ReadCom $28,159.00 From Phillips Fund (Deposited 7/2/98) Total Receipts $28,159.00 $5,014.16 $28,159.00 Expenditures Books & Periodicals - net Building Maintenance Furniture & Equipment Programs Miscellaneous Bank Service Charge Total Expenditures Ending Balance - 6/30198 $14,379.52 $260.00 $0.00 $2,537.37 $1,313.78 $14.47 $18,505.14 ($18,505.14) $14,668.02 Endowment Fund Income Account Expenditures Budget vs. Actual - 7/1/97 to 6/30/98 B~d~et Actusl Variance Books & Periodicals Building Maintenance Fumiture& Equipment Programs Miscellaneous Service Charges $15,500.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $3,000.00 $14,379.52 $260.00 $2,537.37 $1,313.78 $14.47 ($879.52) $740.00 $1,000.00 ($2,537.37) $1,686.22 ($14.47) Total expenditures $18,500.00 $18,505.14 ($5.14) Copier Fund Account Activity - 7/1/97 to 6/30/98 Reported Copier Fund Balance - 7/l/97 Receipts Total receipts Expenditures Total expenditures Ending Balance - 6/30/98 $6,780.75 $4,995,08 $1.594.58 $6,780.75 ($4,995.08) $3,380.15 Fidelity Investments Pm;folio Valuation Value as of June 30, 1998 Fund Historical Value $361,873.52 Present Value Charles Whitney Davis Fund Phillips Fund Berrian Fund Elizabeth P. Stevens Fund NathanieVElizabeth P. Stevens Fund Dale Stevens Fund Anne Bradstreet Fund M.T. Stevens, Abbot Stevens, Mary O. Tyler & Reynolds Fund Total $10,000.00 $2,550.00 SI,000.00 $10,000.00 $25,000.00 $13,500.00 $1,500.00 $61,682.81 $125,232.81 $19,683.00 $6,843.81 $3A21.91 $27,375.24 $61,594.29 $34,219.05 $3,421.91 $205,314.31 $361,873.52 Special Gifts Fund Account Activity - 7/1/97 to 6/30/98 Special Gifts Fund Balance - 7/1/97 Receipts Memorial Contributions $3,290.34 Other Contributions $2,718.00 Lost Books $1,278.16 Computer Printouts $433.00 Other $275.41 Interest $195.48 $7,159.62 Total receipts $8,190.39 $8,190.39 Expenditures Books $412.27 Equipment $613.38 Programs $685.00 Bank Service Charges $127.69 Advance to READCOM $1,838.34 Total expenditures Ending Balance - 6/30198 ($1,838.34) $13,511.67 Special Gifts Fund Detail - 7/1/97 to 6/30/98 Beginning Balance - 7/1/97 Net Activity 7/1/97 to 6/30/98 Ending Balance - 6/30/98 Spedai Advance to Gifts READCOM $21,526.57 ($14,366.95) $7,159.62 $6,352.05 $6,352.05 $27,878.62 ($14,366.95) $13,511.67 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 Depa~i,,,ent and calling for the establishment in ev- ery city, town or district, a Department 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 50th Anniver- sary of the Veteran's Services Depmhuent. 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 Veteram, and their dependent chikhen through this office: · Financial Assistance · Medical Services · Educational Benefits · Death Benefits · Motor Vehicle Plates--Veteran, P.O.W., Pearl Harbor · Property Tax Exemption · Veteran's Bonus · Civil Service Employment · Housing Programs · $1,500.00 Bonus for Gold Star Parents (Application at Veteran's Office) 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 2,500 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 P.M. Town of Boxford: telephone: (508)887-8181 Respectfully submitted, RICHARD E. LAHAYE Dlsr~ucr Du~cro~ OF V~g~s's S~wc~s Report of the Youth Services Department The Youth Services Department, under 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-mn 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 a grant and fundraising money, who was hired full-time in July. During FY98 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 $13,000. Youth Services also secured a $17,000 grant from the Office of Public Safety. Our volunteer staff consisted of college interns, student office aides, program leaders and coordinators, fund raisers 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. We now have raised 1.6 million dollars and hope to break ground in the summer of 1999. 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.LS.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-honr 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 Collaboration: Youth Services employees work 15-20 hours per week in the school system. 10. Young Mothers Group: Weekly supporting group for new young mothers, 11. Fish Bowl: Child/Parent dialog program. Adventure Programs 1. Ropes Courses: Youth Services owns one of the finest ropes course in the Northeast. Com- munity 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: 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 Basketball Leagues: Geared toward middle school, high school and past high school age youth--services over 500 youths. 3. Youth Lacrosse: Town wide pwgram 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- bail and weightlifting. 6. Jr. Youth Center Committee: Meets monthly to assist Joseph N. Hermarm Youth Center Inc. 7. NBA (No Boys Allowed): Elementary age girls sports program. 8. Summer Fun: Structured playground nm at Alldnson 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 Services 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 gsades nine through twelve meet weekly to discuss youth is- sues and concems. The council is action oriented and is made up of a wide array of individuals. 2. T.A.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 me- diation. 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 nm TEENCO dances. 7. Junior Youth Center Committee: Teens who raise funds and awareness for new youth center. 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 tu 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. 5. School to Career: A collaboration between school system and Youth Services to expose stu- dents a world of work. 6. Habitat for Humanity: Service programs for teens. North Andover Youth Services Board of Directors DAVID RAND~ CHA[RMAH WILLIAM BUCK I~T~R P~EN JOYCE BRADSHAW BRANDA CLARK PemR Coco VL~ cF~rr VALEhmNO TRACY CASTIGLIONE, EX OFFICIO JOHH MARICOHS, Ex OFFICIO FUTURE HOME OF THE JOSEPH N. HERMANN YOUTH CENTER Report of the Emergency Management Agency This past winter was rather benign with no serious winter storms, nor floods in our commu- nity. We activated the North Andover Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for several minor callouts such as possible flooding of the Merrimack and Shawsheen rivers after the winter thaws. The North Andover Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) hosted a Hazardous Ma- terial Spill on 8 October 1998. This exercise included the Regional Emergency Planning Com- mittees and included Mass, Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and State representation. In September our Radio Amateur Communications Emergency Services (RACES) personnel and supported the Merrimack Valley walk for the Elders through the {own of North Andover. As usual this effort was also supported by members of the regular Police Force and other volunteers. We continue weekly local and monthly tests of our communications equipment with MF.2dA. We attend monthly MEMA and LEPC meetings. Our communications equipment is exercised monthly to maintain proficiency and enhance our readiness posture. We remain eligible to receive Federal matching funds for 50% of Emergency Management salaries and 50% of all administra- tive expenses under the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) guidelines. We activated our secondary repeater on Osgood Hill and it gives us excellent coverage within the confines of the town. We are still trying to resolve the interference problem at the Boston Hill repeater site. Many thanks for the extra efforts of Mr. Gerald Rowen and Tom Ippolito who have spent countless hours working at each of these sites. Our thanks also to Mx. Peter Butler of Rus- set Wireless Group who has volunteered his efforts to assist us at both sites. As usual we are grateful to Mr. Benjamin Famum for allowing us to keep our primary ~ater on Boston Hill. Our RACES and Auxiliary Police personnel as usual have contributed countless hours of vol- untary services to the town in support of local events demanding communications and crowd control support. We are seriously on the lookout for communications personnel holding Amateur radio licenses to get involved in the support of our radio projects. We are also looking for volunteers over age 21 and able to pass a background investigation conducted by our local police department to join our Auxiliary Police cadre. All town residents are eligible regardless of race, sex or creed. You may contact the undersigned We offer our thanks to the many town boards and departments for their assistance and sup- port of all our projects. In particular Town Manager Mx. Robert Halpin, The Police, Fire and High- way departments who always support our MEMA exercises and real world incidents. Many thanks to my Deputy Director Jeffrey Coco and the Emergency Management staff, The RACES com- munications personnel, Sgt. Richard Boetteher and all the Auxiliary Police for providing their voluntary services to the Town. Your support is greatly appreciated. Respectfully submitted, JOltN J. Coco, DmECroR NORTH ANDOVER EMEROENCY MANAOEMENT AGENCY Report of the Fire Department Mission Statement The North 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 man-made, and to be of assistance to the public. Responses January 1, 1998 to December 31, 1998 Fire and Rescue 2056 Ambulance 1705 Fire Prevention Officer 670 Smoke Detector inspections 62 Oil Burner Inspections 65 Sprinkler installation inspections 60 Annual Common Victualler License Renewal Inspections 65 Other Total 922 Revenue Fire Prevention Permits Ambulance Service Fire Alarm Service Fees $15,260.00 $292,021.51 $11,800.00 1908 Overview · The most severe fire loss experience occurred January 16, 1998 during a snowstorm at 335 Forest Street. The fact that this residence was beyond an area with fire hydrants, the inclement weather and the well-advanced stage of fire worked against our efforts to suppress this fire. The Middleton Fire Department also responded with us to assist this call. · The fire mentioned above increased the concern of many Town Residents who reside in areas where there is no municipal water supply. Meetings were held with area residents to address the issue. Fire, Community Development and Services and the Department of Public Works all participated to provide objectives to meet the needs of these citizens. Community Develop- ment would continue to work with developers to extend the water mains as has been done in the past. The Fire Department has revisited its response and resources and developed new plans for response to structure fires in these areas. The DPW will present a capital budget to extend the water mains. · Response for emergency medical services and in particular, the ambulance, has increased with the growth of the Town. The Town was able in 1998 to staff an ambulance at the Old Center Fire Station with two fire fighter EMTs during the weekday hours. That vehicle, however, was not available on nights and weekends to respond to emergencies. Lack of this second vehicle can cause delays in the delivery of service in all parts of the community. The emergency trans- port service has not been utilized as we had expected and the expectation that this service would pay for the costs of personnel for the second ambulance did not materialize. We will continue to provide nonemergency transports on an "as needed" basis but we are proposing that the Town staff a second ambulance in 1999 as part of the overall enhancement of services proposed for the Town. · The Depaxtment was pleased to participate in the monthly meetings of depathnents to formu- late priorities for the future capital budget needs of the Town. These meetings provided each department to speak on its mission and to listen to others. We welcome the opportunity to work with all departments where we can. · Ability to deliver our services in a timely manner to all parts of the Town continues to be a concern for us. We are again proposing that the Town establish a third fire station in the are of Boxford, Foster and Salem Streets as was recommended by the consultant hired by the town in 1992 and by several fire and station committees prior to that. This station, when staffed, will not only increase our ability to provide service to all areas of Town, but also decrease the response time from each station and increase the availability in the area where the station is located. · The Department continues its efforts in fire prevention education through the use of our fire safety trailer and funding from State-funded S.A.F.E. - Student Awareness for Fire Education. Lt. Melnikas, Lt. Fred McCarthy, and Lt. Bill McCarthy use their enthusiasm to work with the school system to provide children with fire safety knowledge. · Firefighter Dan Glynn and Firefighter Jay Garvey, the Department's two fire investigators, continue to work with our public fire education program, Youth Services Department, and the schools to intervene in problems associated with juvenile firesetters. Personnel Firefighter Frank Devan retired from the Deparhnent on July 6, 1998 having been employed by the Department for 30 years. Firefighter Robert Harclacre was hired to replace Firefighter Devan. Lieutenant Charles Shay retired after 23 years with the Department from job-related injuries. Firefighter Matthew Twiss was hired to fill Lieutenant Beime's position. We wish both of our retirees a long and prosperous retirement and we welcome our new mem- bets to the fire service family. Respectfully submitted, Wn.L~A~ V. DOL^~ NmE CmE~ Report of the Police Department The Police Department has successfully pursued alternative funding sources to maintain cer- tain service programs for the Town. A Community Policing Grant for $50,000 was awarded. Some of the programs that this award supports are High School Resource Officer, patrols that will tar- get traffic issues, implementation of a Rape Aggression Defense Program, and a Student Police Academy. A Department Web Site is currently under construction and will be online April of 1999. The D.A.R.E. program has been funded for $15,000. This type of funding is an acknowledg- ment of the excellent work that D.A.R.E. Officer Tracy Castiglione has accomplished within the school system. In addition to her classroom work, Officer Castiglione participates in after school peer leadership meetings and involves youth in developing and participating in anti-drug and tobacco messages. The U.S. Department of Justice awarded the Town approximately $29,000 to fund a civilian Administrative Assistant for one year. This money will be used to put more police on the street if the Town elects to utilize the funds. Over the last five years department personnel have picked up additional duties that are better served by civilian personnel. In addition, we received over $40,000 in grant money for "Violence Against Women" initiatives that Inspector Diane Peek has been implementing. We have also received additional technology money totaling approximately $61,000 which will provide an automatic vehicle locator system and will provide computer equipment that will allow use to participate in regional crime analysis programs. The automatic vehicle locator will provide dispatch with a real time location of all cruisers so that dispatch can make the quick- est response possible to emergency calls. The business community, as always, has once again supported the Police Department through generous donations. Groupe Schneider and Signal Resco have provided funds that will allow the continuation of community policing and traffic enforcement programs. Safety Officer, Sgt, Fred Soucy has jump-started some safety programs. In addition to his bi- cycle helmet sales program that provides helmets at a cost of $8, patrol leader program and bus safety program for school children, Sgt. Soucy has been expanding his involvement in traffic engineering and enforcement issues. One of Sgt. Soucy's major projects is to resolve the traffic problems that have developed within the Old Center. Officer Thomas Driscoll is assisting with many of the school based safety programs. The Police Department will continue to seek input from residents and businesses on all issues that effect them. Residents will notice a new format in our presentation of Department statistics. Both Lieut. John Carney and Yong W. Nam, Ph.D. of North Andover, have work extensively to provide a meaningful format for residents to review crime trends within the Town. Policing is a community effort and I encourage you to actively participate by contacting us directly with your concerns and problems. Respectfully submitted, R~CHA~O M. STANLEY CHIEF OF POLICE Adults ages 17 and over arrested during FY98 A~uR krrc,~s Type of Offeme Armed Robbery Assault and Battery Assault and Battery on a Police Officer Assault and Battery with Dangerous Weapon Assault with Intent to Murder Assault with Intent to Rape Attempt to Commit Crime Attempted Murder Breaking and Entering Breaking and Entering of Motor Vehicle Credit Card Fraud Disguise to Obstruct Justice Disturbing the PeacedDisorderly Conduct False Information to Police Officer Fugitive from Justice Indecent Assult and Battery Indecent Exposure Larceny Larceny of Motor Vehicle Lewd and Lascivious Major Trafficking Class D Controlled Substance Malicious Damage Operating After Suspension/Revocation of License Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol Operating Under the Influence of Drags Operating Without a License Other Criminal Complaints Other Motor Vehicle Complaints Possession of Alcohol Under Age 21 Possession of Burglarious Tools Possession of Class A Controlled Substance Possession of Class B Controlled Substance Possession of Class D Controlled Substance Possession of Class E Controlled Substance Possession of Controlled Substance w/Intent to Distribute Possession of Dangerous Weapons Possession of Drag Paraphernalia Possession of Forged/Altered RMV Document Possession of Hypodermic Needle and Syringe Possession of Stolen Motor Vehicle Possession/Carry of Firearm without License Prostitution Rape Receiving Stolen Motor Vehicle FY94 2 34 2 1 7 10 53 2 5 12 86 34 70 161 18 9 15 4 8 30 FY95 1 31 7 9 15 40 32 4 5 3 2O 3 2 23 125 44 1 48 15 233 25 6 4 39 8 5 26 5 FY96 1 40 9 11 1 64 16 2 2 25 1 6 12 93 45 2 30 3 60 2 2 2 16 1 25 6 11 5 1 68 7 4 29 21 1 14 41 57 3 4 47 2 FY98 37 3 15 1 1 23 4 6 42 8 6 27 1 3 16 69 59 1 20 68 79 6 2 9 48 1 7 Receiving Stolen Property Refusing to Stop for Police Officer Resisting Arrest Shoplifting Speeding Threat to Commit a Crime Trafficking Class B Controlled Substance Trespassing Unarmed Robbery Uninsured Motor Vehicle Unregistered Motor Vehicle Uttering Forged Instrument Xrtolation of Marked Lanes Violation of Open Container Law Violation of Restraining Order Warrant arrests 31 Total Complaints Issued Total Adult Arrests 59 6 17 29 114 3 2 24 1 18 3 89 11 5 5 58 10 1 18 1 26 14 13 4 3 7 5 3 444 522 329 237 24 6 5 81 29 9 15 14 15 2 19 2 6 249 1,156 1,492 972 794 1070 685 993 813 558 594 In addition to the above, 168 adults were summoned to court Juvenile Arrests Type of Offense Assault and Battery Assault and Battery/Dangerous Weapon Assault and Battery/Family Member Attempt to Commit Crime Breaking and Entering Breaking and Entering of Motor Vehicle Defrauding Innkeeper Disturbing the peace-Disorderly Conduct/Person Failure to Stop for Police Officer False Information to Police Officer Larceny Larceny of Firearm Larceny of Motor Vehicle Malicious Damage Operating Without a License Other Criminal Offenses Possession of Alcohol Possession of Burglarious Tools Possession of Class C Controlled Substance Possession of Class D Controlled Substance Possession of Class D with Intern to Distribute Possession of Dangerous Weapon Possession of Drag Paraphemaiia Possession of Firearm Possession of Hypodermic Needle/Syringe FY94 9 2 2 10 on 271 criminal violations. FY9$ FY96 FY97 FY98 I 4 4 2 1 I 2 2 5 3 3 6 9 5 6 3 1 1 3 33 18 3 1 5 5 1 11 1 3 4 1 12 1 6 14 2 7 7 2 6 10 7 20 1 10 2 19 1 3 2 1 Possession of Stolen Motor Vehicle Receiving Stolen Property Shoplifting Trespassing Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle Warrants 4 1 3 4 1 8 9 8 7 21 16 14 3 9 1 2 9 7 4 8 Total Complaints Issued 107 107 100 64 140 Total Juvenile Arrests 65 69 69 64 77 In addition to the above, 28 juveniles (under age 17) were summoned to court on 38 criminal complaints. Traffic citations issued during FY98 Citations Type of Offense FYg~5 FY96 FY97 FY98 Child Restraint Violation 10 6 12 Crosswalk Violation 5 2 3 3 Defective Equipment 82 65 41 48 Failure to stop for police 8 Failure to Yield 8 8 11 9 Impeded Operation I 8 Left Lane/Left Turn Violation 10 2 11 28 Marked Lane Violation 25 29 27 66 Miscellaneous 13 14 36 36 No Inspection Sticker 136 179 73 124 Number Plate Violation 8 5 9 18 Operating without License 16 29 25 48 Operation of Unregistered Motor Vehicle 77 74 49 86 Passing Violation 143 79 49 48 Red Light/Stop Sign Violation 347 434 375 498 Registration not in possession 10 15 18 18 Seat Belt Violation 29 45 116 Speeding 868 967 786 1009 Tinted Window Violation 15 5 1 Violation of State Highway Signal/Sign/Marking 49 26 44 34 Total Violations 1,822 1,963 1,608 2218 Total Citations 2026 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, 1997 to June 30, 1998. Water Supply & Distribution There were installed in 1997-1998, 6035 feet of eight-inch water main; 1 twelve-inch, 22 eight- inch, 9 six-inch gate valves; and 8 fire hydrants. The water distribution system now consists of 141.04 miles of main pipe; 6 twelve-inch check valves; 4 twelve-inch altitude valves, 5 twenty- four-inch butterfly valves; 472 twelve-inch, 8 ten-inch,879 eight-inch, 1728 six-inch, and 4 four- inch gate valves; with 1281 public hydrants. Size of Pipe (Inches) 24 12 Length of Pipe (Feet) 1917 245,499 10 8 -8521 341,270 Size of Pipe (Inches) 6 4 Length of Pipe (Fee0 142,471 1262 3 160 There were installed in 1997-1998, either wholly or partial/y, 105 water services. 265 new meters were installed and 60 old meters were repaired. Thirteen fire hydrants broken off by cars were replaced and 27 water main or service leaks were repaired, Hydrants were inspected, repaired, and painted where necessary. A complete hydrant flushing program of the distribution system was completed in June. Statistics of Consumption of Water Finished Water Pumped Fiscal Year 97-98 Months July 1997 August September October November December January 1998 February March Apdl May June 1998 FWTotals, MG~ 161.3447Million Gallons(MG's) 147.8872 103.0670 92.4571 80.7851 83.0778 73.8067 64.9952 73.8849 75.0250 101.0231 104.8981 Total million gallons 1090.9818 Total number of days pumped Average daily consumption (MG's) Maximum daily consumption (MG's) 8/11/97 362 3.2106 7.0000 Statistics Relating to Distribution System 1. Kind of pipe 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 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 cast iron and ductile iron 3" to 24" 6,035 800 8 1,281 3,048 0 6 20 to 148 psi cement lined, lead lined, copper 3/4" to 10" 105 6,691 265 In July 1997 the Water Treatment Plant received an award from the Department of Environ- mental Protection (DEP) for Soume Protection. This award was due to North Andover being one of the f'n:sts in the state to develop a "Local Water Supply Protection Plan". The benefits of this plan are: increased protection against water borne disease, possible disinfection/filtration cost savings, possible avoidance of disinfections by-products, public education, and is an integral part of multi-barrier protection. The Town received recognition again in November 1997 in a DEP newsletter to all the communities in Massachusetts and again in a New England Water Works Association newsletter. The North Andover Source Protection Plan will be used as a prototype for other communities. In October 1997 the Watershed Committee put a new buoy in the lake at the location of the Water Treatment Plant's intake pipe. Placed in the middle of a half mile restricted zone around the intake, the buoy is intended to remind boaters of the sensitivity of the area and thus to pass along the opposite shore away from the treatment plant, and to not use your engine while in that area. The lake is a water supply first and foremost and this small effort will help in our continued efforts to keep contaminants from reaching the water treatment plant. In April 1998 the Drinking Water Treatment Plant (DWTP) personnel removed spent G-ranu- lar Activatexl Carbon (GAC) from filters 1, 3 & 5 and installed roughly 49,000 lbs of virgin qual- ity GAC in each. Total cost of the GAC purchase was $127,488.82.00. These three carbon filters have cleaned approximately 1.4 billion gallons of water. In the May 1998 Bear Hill 3.5 M.G. Drinking Water Storage Tank had to be taken off line for repairs to its damaged cover. The cover was repaired and modified with more weight to help pre- vent it from lifting during heavy windstorms. The tank was cleaned, disinfected and returned to service. In May 1998 the Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Water Supply eonclueted a two-day Comprehensive Evaluation (CPE) inspection of our treatment facility, storage tanks and related pumping stations for the assessment of design, operation, maintenance and adminis- tration. The information collected was analyzed to determine what impact the above aspects had upon plant performance. The CPE survey results showed that the Drinking Water Treatment Plant O is currently operating at optimum performance. In the future, an design modification maybe required to our settling basins or longer plant operation time in order to handle peak flows if they become consistent, but reevaluation assess- ment will be made prior to confirm this. During National Drinking Water Week in May 1998 the Water Treatment Plant was given a Consumer Awareness Award at the State House in Boston for "Recognition of Efforts in Provid- ing Information to Consumers about Their Drinking Water through Public Outreach Programs". These efforts consisted of tours at the water treatment plant, going into the school system, setting up educational displays and making up brochures to inform the public of many different issues related to water. Also in May the water treatment plant received an award from the Massachusetts Dental So- ciety for the seventh year in a row. This award is for maintaining excellence in providing com- munity water fluoridation as a recognized scientific public health measure in the prevention of dental decay. Sewage Collection and Treatment In North Andover, sewage 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 truck sewer on Massachusetts Avenue and Waverly Road, and along the Shawsheen River to the Merrimack River; and the Central Drainage area bounded by Waverly Road, Middlesex Street and Main Street to the Merrimack River by way of the Greater Lawrence Sewage Treatment Plant. There are 71.67 miles of sewers in the North Andover sewerage system with 4561 house connections. Size of Sewers (inches) 27 24 20 18 15 Length of Sewers (feet) 2737 15,122 9547 26,737 2909 Size of Sewers (inches) 12 10 8 6 Length of Sewers (feeO 33,967 11,575 190,636 85,194 During the Fall of 1997 staff devised standards for the uniform design and construction of future Sewer Pumping Stations to be built or acquired, by the Town of North Andover. These standards will aid or improve the design and operation of our existing pumping stations as well. As of the fall of 1997 the staff undertook the work of maintaining the Sergeant's School sewer pumping station. We now maintains 11 Sewer pumping stations. Two new personnel were hired and added to the staffto maintain the sewer pumping stations, a mechanic and a licensed electrician. This is the beginning of a new team of professionals who will properly maintain the Town's many sewer pumping stations as well as the Drinking Water Treatment Plant and its related mechanical or electrical components. The construction of a new relief sewer on North Main Street was completed by Somerset Contractors in September 1997. Two projects for infiltration and inflow removal from the sewer- age system were completed in FY98. Contract #1 which was substantially completed in October 1997, replaced or repaired over four thousand feet of sewer pipe. Work was initiated on Contract #2, by New England Pipe Cleaning Company in September 1997. The $264,000.00 project sealed leaks in thirty four thousand feet of pipe and one hundred four manholes. The combined project eliminated approximately 500,000 gallons per day of groundwater from the sewerage system. A 1.2 million dollar contract for the construction of the Phase III-B Sewer was awarded to Andreassi Bros. Inc. in September 1997. The nine thousand foot extension of sewer in the Lake Cochichewick watershed will provide service connections to eighty six existing homes. On March 16, 1998 a section of the East Side Trunk Sewer near Chickering Road collapsed. To eliminate the health hazard created by the failed sewer approximately 700 feet of new sewer was installed along the East Side Interceptor. The new sewer was placed into service in April 1998. In June 1998 the Town and the Massachusetts Deparhnent of Environmental Protection signed a Consent Order Agreement with respect to temporary and permanent measures to eliminate the discharge of raw sewage from the West Side Trunk Sewer into the Shawsbeen River. The order placed the Town on a strict schedule for the design and construction of a temporary solution to the overflow problem, for the construction of a West Side Interceptor Relief Sewer to permanently eliminate the problem, and for the elimination of all illegal storm-water connections to the sew- erage system. As of July 1, 1998 the town had met all compliance dates established in the Order. Solid Waste Collection and Disposal Town crews carried out weekly solid waste collection throughout FY98. 8313 tons were col- lected and disposed at the resource recovery facility on Holt Road. In May 1998 the town signed a 3 year contract with Waste Management Inc. for the curbside collection, transportation and dis- posal of solid waste. Recycling The recycling program in North Andover continued it's 'A' rating with a recycling to solid waste ratio of41%. A total of 1,794 tons of paper, glass, tin, aluminum and plastic were recycled. Laidlaw Environmental Services was engaged to conduct a Household HsTardous Waste collection pro- gram on June 20, 1998. Over 3500 gallons of various hazardous waste were recycled. The DPW continued to provide bi-weekly curbside recycling collection and operate the DPW garage Drop off center for recycling and the Cyr drop off center for yard waste on Sharpners Pond Road. Curbside leaf pickup was conducted on 4 Saturdays in the Fall and Christmas trees were picked up in January. Street Maintenance A new drainage system was installed on Pleasant Street between Elm Street and Clarendon Street. Catch basins were repaired or rebuilt as required. The following streets were all or partly paved: Magnolia Street, Elmcrest Road, Cross Street, Putnam Road, Pembrook, Baldwin Street, Belmont Street, Marblehead Street. Jetwood Street, Harwood Street, Old Village Lane, Boxford Street, Wood Lane, Bradford Street, Lacy Street, Pleasant Street, Penni Lane, Johnson Street, Prospect Street and Moody Street There were sidewalks installed in various locations in town along the following streets: Johnson Street, Marbleridge Road, Hewitt Ave, and Pleasant Street, Extensive patching with hot top was done in areas where road sags and flactores existed to minimize the out break of pot holes in this upcoming winter season. Maintained all street signs. Roadside lawn damage from winter snow removal operations were repaired in April. Catch ba- sins were cleaned by machine and by hand totaling over 250 feet of drainage pipe cleaned. Prob- lem catch basins were cleaned as required. Areas of Town where new sidewalks were installed were loamed and seeded including Johnson Street and Pleasant Street. Forestry & Tree Maintenance Sen, ices provided by this department include cutting of grass and brush on sides of all rural roads and intersections where required. Removed large, dead, problem t~es with the Skyworker bucket truck. Some of the trees removed included trees on Edmands Road, Green Street, Johnson Street, Chapin Road, Tavern Road, Marbleridge Road, Milk Street, Longwood Street, Wood Lane, Salem Street, and Barker Street DPW crews worked with the Holiday Committee in many ways throughout the year: Christ- mas lights were put up in the Old Center Common as well as the downtown area which made for a wonderful and festive display, flags were put up along Mass. Ave and Main Street for the 4th of July celebration and veterans day, and wreaths were hung along these same streets for the Christ- mas holiday. 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; Alpin Playground, 1.8 acres; Chadwick Street Playground, 3.0 acres; Soccer Field at the Cyr Recreation Area, 2 acres; and the new Gallagher 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. The beach was open June through August. Over 2,000 swimming lessons were given by the Director Donald Smith and other lifeguards. A Contract for Athletic field improvements was awarded to RAD Corporation of Hingham in April 1998. Improvement that were compiled include rebuilding of the existing youth baseball field and construction of a second field at the Franklin School, rebuilding the softball and base- ball infield at the High School, constructing three softball fields at the Chadwick playground, improvements to the Aplin park infield, and installation of fencing and dugouts at Grogans field. A new soccer and baseball facility at the Cyr Center on Sharpners Pond Road was designed by the landscape architectural firm of Moriece and Gary Inc. Bids for construction of the project were received on July 1, 1998. 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 week. All triangles at various locations were main- tained and mowed. School ground areas consists of the Bradstreet School, 1.20 acres; Thomson School, 3.00 acres; Kittredge School, 6.57 acres; Franklin School, 8.77 acres; Sargent School 15 acres; North Andover Middle School and Atkinson School, 38.34 acres; and the High School, 44.52 acres - a total of 117.40 acres. Bleachers were repaired and repainted as required. Baseball fields, track and field facilities, field hockey, soccer, and football fields were maintained for competitive school events and practice. Respectfully submitted, WILLIAM I"IMURCIAK DWlSION OF PUBLIC WORKS Report of the Affirmative Action Program The Town of North Andover Affirmative Action Office is responsible for monitoring, review- ing, 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 dam. · 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 Affirmative 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 in 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 conwact 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 Who We Are We a~ an advocacy group established to work with citizens with disabilities who live in North Andover. Our Commission is made up of individuals with and without disabilities who wish to provide an important civic duty for the town. We are all volunteers from various walks of life and are citizens of North Andover appointed by the Town Manager. The North Andover Commission on Disabilities (NACDI) continues to work toward ensur- ing that the civil rights of people with all types of disabilities are met. Commissioners have provided trainings, workshops, and meetings to assist with ensuring that the Town will increase its compliance with Thc Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). Com- missioners organized Irainings, and workshops to assist with ensuring that the Town will increase its compliance with The Massachusetts Architectural Access Barriers (AAB) Regulations, The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), and other disability related laws. Some of the recommendations we have made for improvements which will bring the Town and local businesses into compliance include: installing accessible signs, adapting bathrooms and doorways, acquiring tty's (telephones for people who are Deaf), alternate print formats (i.e., Braille, audiotape, computer disc, etc.) ramps, etc. Overall, businesses are very willing to nLake these changes because they realize that making goods and services fully accessible increases their sales. This Year's Accomplishments A number of our members are trained and certified (by Massachusetts Office On Disability- MOD) Community Access Monitors (CAM's). What this means is that we are able to check new construction and renovations in order to verify that they are in compliance with the American Disabilities Act codes. We have been asked to do this by The Town, and a number of businesses and have also done some monitoring on our own. When violations have been found, the owners have been informed. Thus, the necessary changes could be made before the construction or reno- vation was completed saving the owners time and money. We have also approached various busi- nesses already established and informed them of existing code violations. A quorum was achieved at all of our meetings this year. We have met with guest speakers in- cluding: Kathy Ogden of The Lawrence Eagle Tribune, Lieutenant John Carney of the North Andover Police Department, Myra Berloff of the Mass Office On Disability, and others. We have met with parents who have children in the North Andover school system; residents who have requested more accessible parking on streets; We completed exterior access surveys at all of the businesses in Town. We then completed a report on DAP spaces. We surveyed the new Dormitory buildings at Merrimack College, and found that they have done a good job in achieving ADA compliance, As always, our Building Depart- ment Director does a wonderful job enfoming AAB and other building accessibility requirements. In fact, we believe that we have the finest Building Department in the State. To highlight some of our other accomplishments, we will mention just a few: we advised the owners of the new Stop & Shop on how to make their shopping center fully accessible. Spoke with owners of the Old Stone Building to advise them on AAB regulations as they installed a wonderful new access ramp and made their building more accessible; met with owners of the Salem Street Minimall who made their new shopping mall totally accessible; Richdale, Dunkin Donuts, Merrimack College, and others have installed accessible parking in their tots; We met with the property manager of One High Street Associates to give him advice on Massachusetts Architec- tural Access Board (AAB) Regulations concerning accessible crosswalks on High street, etc. We completed an informative brochure, which has been widely distributed around town, and has been posted on the Internet. What We Are Doing At Present One of the projects we are presently working on is conducting exterior surveys of the various businesses in North Andover such as restaurants, shopping malls, etc. to check on their Desig- nated Accessible Parking (DAP) accommodations. Working with the Building Department, we wanted to see if their facilities were in compliance with the ADA code for DAP parking. The three most important stipulations are that there are above-ground signs for each parking spot, that there are at least one DAP parking spot for each 24 parking areas and that at least one of the DAP spots must be designated as van accessible. Much to our dismay, we have discovered that there are far too many businesses which are not in compliance. We plan to work in parmership with The Li- censing Commission to inform these businesses of their problems and hope that they will be co- operative in getting their parking areas up to code. Future Missions:What we hope to accomplish in F.Y. 1 gg9 There are many issues which we plan to address in EY. 1999 as we enter the new millennium): We plan to work with the North Andover Police Department to make all citizens aware of the inconvenience caused when a non-DAP vehicle uses a designated accessible space. Individuals must have either a DAP plate or placard. Those of us who drive accessible vehicles encounter this problem far too frequently. We realize that drivers often feel that using a DAP spot for five minutes is all right but are unaware of the inconvenience it causes for those of us who need the spot. We don't believe that there is any malicious intent involved but feel that enhanced aware- ness might be helpful. We plan to continue educa/Jng citizens of North Andover to the needs of residents with dis- abilities. This includes people with all types of disabilities, and of all ages. It is difficult for indi- viduals without disabilities to understand even the simplest barriers which can be encountered such as getting into a store with stairs or even a high threshold, going along sidewalks which are cluttered, cars blocking sidewalk curb cuts, etc. All people should be aware of the telephone re- lay service, how to provide print-reading materials in alternate formats (i.e., Braille, large print, computer disc, etc.). People with psychiatric and many other disabilities encounter stigma and prejudice in our daily lives. We are attempting to make people more aware of these issues and others, which are very complex. We aim to hold true to our motto, which is "To educate, not in- timidate, for the good of all North Andover citizens." We will work with the Town Clerk's Office, The Building Department, and the MOD on a joint project with Secretary of State W'dliam Galvin's office to improve the accessibility of polling places in Town. Conclusion We meet on the third Thursday of each month in the conference room of the Stevens Memorial Library at 6:30 P.M. We have had and will continue to have very informative guest speakers. We welcome any and all input from the community in general. Please feel free to join us at any time and let us know what we can do to help. We can be reached through the Town Clerk's office at (978) 688-9501. Commission Members: Cheryl Vaz?a-Scott, Chairperson James Lyons, Vice Chairperson Donald Stewart, Selectman Eugene Nevins, Secretary Barbara Currier, Longest Commission Member Leonard "Skip" Perkins, Media Coordinator All persons interested in learning more about the Commission, the ADA or any other disabil- ity related issues are welcome to come to our meetings which are held the third Thursday if each month at 6:30 at the library. We are currently have one vacant position, which is the Clerk's (of- ficer) position. If you are interested, please call Cheryl, she can be reached by leaving a message at the above number. Respectfully submitted: T~E NORTH ANDOVER COMMISSION ON DISAB1LrrJeS (NACDI) Report of the Council for the Arts This year was an exceptional year for the North Andover Council for the Arts (NACA) both in terms of Council activities and the number and variety of funded programs executed. Due to the availability of unused granted North Andover arts lottery monies in 1997, an unusual number of grants were applied for and approved for 1998. (Of 44 grant applications, 35 were approved, most of them funded in full.) As a result, this year Notrth Andover has enjoyed a wide range of grant-funded activities, improvements, and programs, such as the No. Andover and Andover His- torical Societies' play production, Cry Witch!, summer band concerts on the Common, individual artist and local cultural organization projects, and many school, library, and elder services pro- grams. The 1999 grant applications that were submitted Oct. 15, 1998 were not quite as numerous as last year's but certainly as diverse (36 applications of which 31 were approved by NACA). Among these applications is a NACA-sponsored project, No. Andover Arts Fair Day, proposed for May 1999. Also, due to the success of this year's first NACA-sponsored project, the Youth Arts Work- shops will be offered again during school vacation in April 1999. With the increasing scope of NACA, the Council, with approval by the Selectmen, expanded its membership from 7 to 9 members, effective October 1998. Respectfully submitted, JILL MARTIN BARKER Co-C.An~ Report of the Housing Authority As Executive Director, I am pleased to submit, on behalf of the North Andover Housing Au- thority Board of Commissioners and its Chairman, William McEvoy, the Authority's 50th An- nual Report for fiscal year ending September 30,1998. This report has been prepared in accordance with Chapter 12lB of the General Laws of Massachusetts, which govern housing authorities. This year he Authority celebrated its 50th Anniversary. A picnic was held at the field at Foun- tain Drive, under a tent, with entertainment and dancing. A good time was had by all. The tents, entertainment and numerous raffle prizes were donated by many area businesses for which we are extremely grateful. Also, during the past year, the Authority provided low rent subsidized units for over 400 fami- lies. The Authority owned low rent units are distributed in six elderly and two family develop- ments which consist of STATE FUNDED Fountain Drive Bingham Way Foulds Terrace O'Connor Heights Veteran's Housing Ashland Street 40 units of elderly/disabled 42 units of elderly/disabled 52 units of elderly/disabled 20 units of elderly/disabled 10 units of congregate housing for frail elders 24 two- and three-bedroom family units 2 three-bedroom family units FEDERALLY FUNDED McCabe Court Morkeski Meadows 45 units of elderly/disabled 60 units of elderly/disabled In addition to our owned units, the Authority also administers rental subsidy programs through the use of Federal and State funds. These programs are designed to provide a subsidy of housing to eligible low income families and elderly individuals. The goal of the program is to coordinate both the private and public sector for the purpose of meeting the housing needs of our commu- nity. It offers families, in need of housing or housing assistance, a choice of residence among virtually every apartment that qualifies within Housing Quality Standards and Fair Market Rent Guidelines. Under the Section 8 program, there are 71 certificates and 67 vouchers. We have currently taken back administration of the majority of our certificates and vouchers that have trav- eled all over the Commonwealth. The Authority is successfully administering a Family Serf Sufficiency (FSS) program where we have been working to provide education and training to participants with the objective of be- coming self sufficient and eventually off of all public assistance. We have mn parenting classes, support groups, classes in resume, dressing, interviewing, etc. We've seen our first participant graduate, go off of Section 8, take her escrow account, and buy a condo. She is off of all subsidy. The newest program offered by the State, the Alternative Housing Voucher Program, is suc- cessfully housing disabled persons in private market units while they await placement in state public housing units. All housing administered by the North Andover Housing Authority is subject to the following income and asset limits: INCOME No. in Family State/Federal Section 8 1 $31,700 $19,850 2 $36,250 $22,700 3 $40,750 $25,500 4 $45,300 $28,350 5 $48,900 $30,600 6 $52,550 $32,900 7 $56,150 $35,150 8 or more $59,800 ' $37,400 ASSEST: There are no longer any asset limits in any of the Authority's programs. 2/3% (cur- rent HUD determined interest rate) or actual interest earned on assets is taken as income. Age Limits: State Elderly: Age 60', or disabled Federal Elderly: Age 62, or disabled *This lowering of the eligibility age to 60 in State aided elderly housing is a change enacted by the legislature in 1995. This lowering of the age limit, and easing of the asset limits open opportunity for persons who were not eligible in the past. North Andover residents still receive preference. The Authority completed modernization at most of our sites in 1998. Fountain Drive, Bingham Way, Foulds Terrace: · Hard wired smoke detectors and still to be completed is the new wiring for new heat de- tector system with new panels, etc. · Received funding in 1998 for ADA upgrades to the Community Room and surrounding common areas with new handicapped parking. Veteran's Housing: · Upgraded electrical system and hardwired smoke detectors in all units. McCabe Court: · New windows, front security doors, and door bell/buzzer systems. · Installed GFI outlets in all locations within 6' of the kitchen sinks. · Received funding in '98 for new back doors, storage heater upgrade study. Morkeski Meadows: · Installed GFI outlets in all locations within 6' of the kitchen sinks. · Received funding in 1998 for common area floor/carpet replacement, heat/ventilation re- pair study. We are watching to see what the future holds as the legislature passed a massive housing bill this year for the first time in a long while. The Authority received its third 100% rating on the Federal Housing Management Assessment Program (PHMAP). We are very proud of this. Federal Consolidated Budget: INCOME EXPENSES Rent $325,499.00 Administrative $84,642.00 Interest $4,553.58 Utilities $103,696.25 Other $7,219.44 Maintenance $83,402.03 Subsidy $24,981.00 General Expense $70,514.32 Non Routine $ 4,523.68 Total $362,253.02 Total $346,778.28 State Consolidated Budget: INCOME I;'.XPEN SF_,S Rent $587,393.16 Administrative $96,506.59 Interest $6,273.12 Maintenance $125,733.67 Other $3,770.85 General Expenses $56,269.45 Subsidy 0.00 Utilities $160,866.48 Non Routine $85,486.15 Total $597,437.13 Total $524,862.34 The only personnel change we have seen in 1998 is the retirement of Joe Walsh, Maintenance Supervisor, for health reasons. The Authority Board, staff and tenants cannot express how much we miss Joe, but wish both he and his better half, Gloria, the best. Once again, the Housing Authority wishes to express its sincere appreciation to the town de- partments and the citizens of North Andover who have supported and assisted the Authority in the development of all of our housing programs, and in our continuous efforts to provide adequate housing for the residents of North Andover. A special thanks to the Authority staff. Respectfully submitted, HOPE R. Mmlcucc~, PHM EXEC'LrlWE DIRECTOR Board of Commissioners: Wm~a~ McEvoY, CHAIRMAN CLARE COCO, V~¢E CHAmWOM^~q A~N^ O'CoNNoR, Tar~ASUR~ ~ Mrrcum. L, Ass~sTta. rr TReaSUReR I~LEN SOUC¥, MEMEER Report of the School Committee Financial planning, facilities administration, curriculum development, personnel changes and Education Reform mandates towered over the School Committee's docket of FY 98 business and education entities. The school population continues to exhibit astounding growth rates. There's a consistent and constant influx of new families bringing their small children into town. The district's enrollment figures increase by 150 students each year. The strain is surfacing across the whole town and in all the schools. Newcomers are settling down in new-sprung developments, plus they're re-lay- ing foundations in older, familiar, established neighborhoods. This town-wide situation poses uncommon impasses and challenges for the School Committee. While the bulk of the new stu- dents are breaking down doors at the elementary schools, the preceding years' new students are moving forward and swelling the middle school and high school building capacities. Fortunately, the primary components of the School Master Plan became reality this fiscal year. Last spring the town celebrated the dedication of the North Andover Middle School addition/reno- vation and rededication of the Veterans Memorial Auditorium. This two and one half-year project involving development, construction, and student relocation was completed on time and within budget while regular class operations were maintained and continued. This spring the town will open the new Thomson School, a major milestone that will help alleviate overcrowded class sizes throughout the town. This 18-month project, although not as extensive as the Middle School, was likewise completed on time, on schedule, and on budget. The demolition of the old Thomson will be completed before Summer 1999. The town's approval to purchase the Foster Farm property confirmed and reinforced the Committee's course of action for site and construction planning analysis/feasibility studies for another out-country elementary school. Relative to the final stages of the School Master Plan, town officials are overlooking and scrutinizing several different fa- cilities designs, cost effectuation alternatives, land management selections, growth projections, and monetary propensities for a new High School. The School Committee acknowledges the town's responsibility and resolution to engage state- mandated Education Reform requirements and directives. Overshadowing the enrollment crisis is the need to immediately address curriculum realignment, reduced class sizes and obligatory professional development requirements. The 1993 Education Reform Act requires all municipali- ties in the Commonwealth to meet comprehensive curriculum sequences and pass rigorous test- ing. Proficiency standards must be achievable in 2001; no diploma will be presented to failing MCAS test takers. The School Committee and school administration, along with the Selectmen, Town Manager, and Finance Board continue to seek solutions for facing the town's financial dilemmas. The town, under the limits of Proposition 2-1/2, cannot maintain State program entanglements, growth, curriculum complexity, technology, and other citizen services. In essence, the demand is far out- stripping the town's ability and propensity to supply. The State Department of Education awarded North Andover High School another ten-year sec- ondary school accreditation, A great deal of credit goes to the school principal, the school fac- ulty, the school student body, and the district's executive and administraove staff. The accreditation process was a time-consuming process, requiring an entire year of intensive analysis, evaluation, measurement, demonstration and questioning. Dr. George Blaisdell retired this year after eleven years of faithful service as North Andover's Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Blaisdell was an outstanding leader with great vision and fore- sight who led the town through some tumultuous times. The townspeople are grateful for his ef- fort and dedication to the children of the town and for leaving us with one of the best school systems in the Commonwealth. After a one-year term, Dave Carney retired from the School Committee. Nancy Rullo was elected to a three-year term to fill his seat on the board. David's contribution to the school system was exemplary, and he worked very hard to fulfill many of the current educational programs now underway. "To live is to change and to be perfect is to have changed often." (John Neuman) Change is the one thing we can all be certain of as we proceed into the next century. The School Commit- tee, with the help and support of many other fine boards and committees, welcomes this challenge and opportunity to support the town and the children of the town. It appreciates and thanks the voters for continued support and confidence. Respectfully submitted, Jole~ S. LYoNs, CHAmM^N Report of the Superintendent of Schools The school district's report for the 1997-98 school year is my first as your Superintendent of Schools. During the past six months, I have had an opportunity to meet a number of North Andover residents, elected officials, and employees, all of whom have been welcoming and supportive. 1 am looking forward to our future together. 1998 marks a time of transition. My predecessor, Dr. George Blaisdell, retired after twelve years of devoted service to the citizens of North Andover. Dr. Blaisdell left the North Andover school system in excellent condition and prepared in many ways to meet the demands of the fu- Our community continues to experience growth, growth in terms of new homes being built; and, of course, growth in terms of homes being sold, both of which are leading to increased en- rollment in our schools. We expect this trend to continue for the next several years, necessitating continued attention to the addition of staff and facilities. During the past year, the expansion of the Middle School has been completed, the new Middle School facility will serve up to 1200 stu- dents, a number we expect to reach in the next two years. At the same time, the Thomson Elemen- tary School project is moving forward with an expected completion dale of February 1999. The completion of the Thomson School, while it will add additional space for elementary school stu- dents, is only a temporary measure in the long term need for additional elementary school space. In May the annual Town Meeting authorized the purchase of Faster Farm for the construction of another elementary school. It is expected that construction on this school will have to commence sooner, rather than later. Perhaps the biggest facilities project facing North Andover is that of the High School. As we look to the future, the replacement of North Andover High School is something that must be se- riously considered and, hopefully, supported. The combination of increasing enrollment and an outdated facility clearly points the way to the need for a new facility. As has been the case in prior years, our staff continues to work toward the successful imple- mentation of the Education Reform Act of 1993. At every level of our school system teachers and administrators are engaged in developing new curriculum, new instructional strategies, and new assessment strategies, all designed to provide a quality education program that will meet the needs of students as they look to their futures. As these improvement efforts are undertaken, more and more time is required for professional development activities to train and retrain our staff. These efforts will continue into the foreseeable future. What follows are reports from the administrative staff of the North Andover School System, including Assistant Superintendent, Principals and Directors. You will see in their reports the in- credible efforts that are being made to provide good educational programming for our students. Our staff and faculty have made outstanding efforts over the past year on behalf of our students, and the reports that follow will give you a picture of their work. Assistant Superintendent Curriculum and Instruction As the North Andover School System completes its fourth year of our "Success for All Stu- dents'' Program, the District continues to accelerate with three major initiatives: curriculum, instruc- tion and assessment. This program, encompassing the major vision of challenging all students at the highest levels of learning, has been complemented with strong professional development and curricu- him growth. It challenges all 300+ members of our faculty and staff to support these initiatives. Developed by the Curriculum Steering Committee (CSC), our Five-Year Master Plan, that charts the comprehensive plan of action for integrating both curriculum and professional devel- opment into a common package, was revised and revisited every year to reflect new learning and new teaching techniques. The CSC, the committee responsible for coordinating curriculum and instruction in the North Andover district, developed a plan for all seven academic disciplines in North Andover to be revised. These revisions of our local curriculum uses a curriculum guide model originally created by the CSC three years ago. Two years ago, the CSC designed its own Relational Data Base to house our district's cur- riculum. Now copyrighted, this Relational Data Base uses FileMaker Pro 4.0 which will enable faculty and staff to use curriculum as a "living" document in the classroom. The State Depart- ment of Education has demonstrated a keen interest in our Relational Data Base and continues to support the development of this program as it explores the feasibility of implementing the pro- gram on a statewide basis. Because the development of our Relational Data Base moved faster than most other districts in the Commonwealth, the State Department of Education awarded North Andover a Lighthouse Grant that enabled us to both train teachers locally in how to use the data base and introduce this technology to other school districts across the Commonwealth. During the spring and summer of 1998, the Curriculum Development Committees (CDC's) were awarded mini grants that enabled these Committees to continue writing or revising the district's existing curriculum following the timeline approved by the School Committee. The Mathematics and Fine Arts disciplines will go through the first cycle of the Five-Year Master Plan that includes piloting and implementing new curriculum throughout the District K- 12. The piloting process was developed by the CSC at our Summer Institute in July, 1998; and this formal process will enable the CSC to ensure that the district's piloting of curriculum, instruc- tion and assessment moves with quality control. The school district's expanded definition of cur- riculum includes not only curriculum (what you teach), but also instruction (how you teach it), and assessment (how you measure it). As we match the district curriculum with the State Frame- works, it has become apparent that the District now needs to focus on multiple ways of assessing student learning. We are also stressing that all teachers gain increased information about how best their students learn and then employ various teaching practices to accommodate diverse learning styles. Throughout the year, our teachers have been encouraged to grow professionally and to make progress toward their own teacher State recertification. More than 100 faculty members took one or more graduate level courses at a local college or university. In addition, almost seventy per- cent of the faculty or staff attended one or more statewide conferences or workshops last year. These combined initiatives ensure that the faculty and staff remain among the most highly edu- cated and well trained of the teaching profession in the Commonwealth. This office monitored nine State and Federal Grants last year, including: Title I, Eisenhower Math and Science, the Block Grant, Early Literacy, PALMS, the State Frameworks, and the Massachusetts Cultural Council. We were also awarded a local grant from the Stevens' Founda- tion to support the High School's Shakespeare and Company program. In addition, we were awarded a new State grant to support the Reading Recovery Program. The integration of these grants into the school district allows us to make greater strides toward achieving "Success for AIl Students" in North Andover. Respectfully submitted, RONALD BINKNEY Early (hildhood (enter The Bradstreet Early Childhood Center serviced about 334 students during the 1997/1998 School Year. Our teaching staff of 8 classroom teachers, 1 full time and one part time (.3) special needs teacher, 4 teacher assistants, 1 guidance counselor (.5), art, music, physical education and library specialists taught 16 classes of kindergarten students which ranged in size from 15 to 24 and averaged 20 per class for the year. We welcomed two new teacher assistants, Patricia Teichman and Diane Matton. We also welcomed a new Speech And Language therapist, Kathy Hilli. As reflected in our School Improvement Plan, the school community focused on several ma- jor goals this year. Recognizing that kindergarten children begin school with a wide range of experiences and skills, one of our goals was to increase the support available to children who need extra activities and reinforcement in acquiring beginning reading and writing skills. We worked with reading consultant Katherine Heap one half day each week, and she provided modeling and demonstra- tion lessons in classrooms as well as consultation on individual students for the staff. We also began a parent volunteer program which connected ten parent volunteers with classes to work with teachers to reinforce and practice skills in beginning reading and writing for indi- vidual students. These parents received limited training with Kathy Heap, and worked closely with the classroom teachers to do a variety of practice activities with students each week. The infor- mal results of this program are overwhelmingly positive. Volunteer parents, teachers, as well as parents of the students involved noted significant progress for the children involved. A number of children who were referred for Student Assistance Team consultation were successfully sup- ported by this extra attention and did not need further intervention. Another goal in our Improvement Plan was to improve the assessment techniques and data collected to help determine the success of our curriculum and instructional techniques for indi- vidual students and to determine the effectiveness of our program. Our Fall Kindergarten Screening was revised to address this goal. We moved from using the ESI (Early Screening Inventory) to using the Brigance Kindergarten (K-l) Screening Instrument. We added a pilot assessment in phonemic awareness and an assessment of letter identification to the Kindergarten Screening, which we hoped to use to determine the progress made by the students in these areas during the year. These additional assessments were repeated in the Spring to help us determine the progress made by the students in these areas during the year. We examined the data and results of the pho- nemic awareness and feel that we need to look at alternate instrument for the coming school year, because we had questions about whether the instrument accurately assessed the skills we were targeting. Other assessment data collected in the Spring included the Observation Survey on 25% of our students. These kindergarten assessments will be followed up with assessments in in'st grade in an effort to monitor student progress and collect consistent systemwide data. A third major initiative this year was to improve the playground to provide increased oppor- tunities for students to develop gross motor, play and social skills as well as to provide increased access for students with physical challenges to the playground. Our Fro and staff worked to not only raise the necessary funds but also provide the needed volun~ers to plan, purchase equip- ment and install many new pieces of playground equipment. Continuing our effo~s in inclusion and collaboration, this year we planned and provided a program for five children with moderate or severe special needs. This program, which was co- taught by a kindergarten teacher and special needs teacher, with two assistants and therapists, created an environment in which these children were able to be fully included in a regular kin- dergarten class. Their day was extended beyond the regular half day in order to provide individual and small group therapies in the Learning Center classroom. Staff Development focused on increasing teacher skills with technology and developing early reading and writing skills. Individual staff members each worked with one of the systemwide Curriculum Development Committees, and we developed a concise summary of the curriculum areas for Kindergarten Parents. Staff also reviewed our Parent Conference Form and have developed a draft revision of the form to be considered for the 1998/1999 School Year. Respectfully submitted, KATHLEEN CALLAGY, PRINCIPAL Atkinson School Atkinson School in the course of this school year added yet another classroom. This has taken the art room from the area of dedicated art space to classroom space. It also appears that if next year a fifth grade is added that it will force changes in both our library space and our general music space. We eagerly anticipate the opening of the new Thomson and welcome the additional class- rooms that it will bring. This will have a positive effect on our space issues. Again I report to you that, as identified by our survey data, that our people are our greatest strength. Our staff is committed, caring, knowledgeable and involved. This is easily demonstrated via parent -teacher conferences, involvement in "Success for AIl Program" and participation in ongoing system wide curricula efforts. They do in fact "go that extra mile" for our children. Sec- ondly, our parents are most supportive of our efforts. They provide both resources and manpower to assist in the classroom. The functioning of the PTO from fund raising to social to enrichment is a constant positive in our school life. Also the School Council, reviews, set direction and imple- ments plans to assist the school to improve. Last year, for example, after school programs were set up at little or no cost but involving a great deal of effort. Over two thousand dollars were raised and grants won in order to fund Science club, Drama Club, and a Web Team (Interact computer club for our web site). Other activities initiated by combined parent teacher collaboration were a Volunteer Center, a collaborative presentation to School Committee regarding space issues and a greater participa- tion of all parties, both parents and teachers. From my perspective this increased collaboration and communal effort had a profound and positive effect on children. School was understood to be a place where all participated in learn- ing, where the goal was to benefit each child, and where a safe and nurturing environment ex- isted for every pupil's betterment. Again prior initiatives involving communications, technology were placed in the "continuing"/ "on-going" category. Curriculum development and professional participation in professional growth opportunities also belong in this category as teachers and administrators attend workshops, contribute in curriculum development comnfittees and most importantly share and collaborate with their newly acquired skills and learnings. The unstinting contribution of time and energy on the part of the PTO, the School Council and the Faculty, for the second year in a row, I believe was a most significant factor in our growth as a learning community, a community of learners. Thank you for your most generous donation of time, energy and most importantly, yourself to the children of the Atkinson School. Respectfully submitted, ALBERT A. GOEBEL, PRINCIPAL Franklin School The Franklin school opened on Wednesday, September 3, 1997 with 424 students. This year a second grade classroom was added to accommodate the increased enrollment in grade on. This brought the classroom grade configuration to four each in grades one and two and three class- rooms in grades three, four, and five. Teachers hired for this school year included Karen Pudelko, Mary Louise Purcell in the spe- cial education department, Maggie Liuzza, Mary?mn Lodde, and Eileen Biggio were hired as teaching assistants, and Jeanne Hollins transferred to Franklin from the Sargent School. Because of maternity leaves in the spring, Karin Perry and Diana Uttley were hired to substitute for two teachers during their maternity leaves in the spring. All of these additions to the Franklin staff did an outstanding job of providing organization and motivation for the students. SCHOOL L~PROVEMENT ACTIVITIES The Franklin School Council met monthly beginning in June to review school-wide policies and to write the school improvement plan. The members for 1997-95 consisted of Paul McQuilkin, principal, teacher representatives Cathy Dalnowsld, Mary Goodwin, Patti Hoke, and Fdm Terry. The parent representatives were Donna Katzman, Laura Craig-Bray, Shari Lopilato, and Joan Mailhot. The major school system goals had been identified as the following: · To continue to use SUCCESS FOR ALL as the system's educational plan. That document iden- tifies the following key components - essential curricula, varied instruction, and multiple as- sessments, · Finances and facilities, · Specific District Issues, and · To continue our effort to develop a strong student focused school culture in each building, con- sidering several specific issues. The Franklin School council adopted these goals and del'reed them in terms of Franklin school needs. Success For All The school council focused on three specific areas for aiding the implementation of Success For All: I. Implementation of the Curriculum Frameworks Staff members participated on the Curriculum Development Committees in various subject areas, and Para Lathrop represented the school on the Curriculum Steering committee. During the school year, teachers were encouraged to become familiar with the curriculum frameworks docu- ments and to incorporate the spirit and philosophy into their daily lessons. Staff meetings were used to share successful practices with one another and to brainstorm slrategies to successfully deal with students of a variety of abilities. Staff members and parents joined to help make the curriculum as rich and rewarding for our students as possible. The Academic Excellence Committee coutin- ued to emphasize the impoaance of high quality work in the classrooms. New materials particularly in the area of educational software were introduced 'to challenge students and make them better informed. Work continued of developing consistency across the curriculum, interdisciplinary teach- ing, flexible scheduling, and successful teaching practices. Collaboration and collegiality were encouraged, and teachers were urged to make instruction challenging, practical, and hands-on. 2. Professional Development Franklin staff members were provided with a number of professional development opportu- nities. In addition to the many offerings by the school district, teachers attended workshops on classroom management, inclusion, various curriculum areas (reading, math, writing), and com- puters. Staff members also served on committees for software selection. Inservice days were pro- vided during the school year and were used for grade level meetings on the state curriculum frameworks, both at the district and school level. 3. Technology Franklin staff members have become increasingly proficient with technology and specifically with use of the computer for both academic and personal applications. This year, the council though it important to develop some consistency in file management for students. The concept of an elec- tronic portfolio was (and still is being) considered as a way to keep student's work on file and as a way to better coordinate the transition from grade to grade. Training was provided to teachers on sew eral other pieces of equipment including a digital camera, scanner, and alphawdter. Open lab was held before school and several inservice days were devoted to using technology and software in the classroom. The e-mail system was used successfully by teachers and older students and as a result information for the weekly newsletter could be submitted electronically from the classrooms. Finances and Facilities Many improvements were made to the building and grounds during the summer and past year. Several new ceilings were hung, and windows were replaced in the first/second grade wing. New roofs were installed on the portable classrooms. Painting included the nurse's office, speech of- rice, computer lab and bathrooms. The entire main hallway was retiled and various ceiling tiles were also replaced. Lockers were painted in the fourth and fifth grade part of the school. The in- tercom system was upgraded and extended to the portable classrooms. Exit doors were replace near the portable classrooms. The custodians have worked very hard this year to keep the build- ing at a very high level of cleanliness. Many parents and visitors comment positively on the ap- pearance of the school. SpecificDistrictlssues The school council addressed the issue of student transition from grade to grade by allocating more time at grade level and faculty meetings to transition issues--both from grade to grade and as best as we could, from school to school. Student transition, Communication is handled in a variety of ways through a weekly newsletter, frequent conferences, the school web page, and a quarterly PTO newsletter. In order to increase collaboration between the PTO and the school council, one member served in both capacities as a member of the council and as and officer in the PTO. This worked very effectively. School outreach programs include the Holiday Kids, Se- nior Citizens day, Special Friends, student teachers, as well as collaboration with the police and fire departments through DARE and the Smoke House. In addition Franklin sponsors a Boy Scout troop and houses several Gift Scout troops. School Culture Franklin school has targeted two issues as fundamental in the development of a strong school culture. They are to have high expectation for students and staff, and to address the issues of so- cial awareness, student diversity and conflict resolution: The first of these goals is part of the task of the Academic Excellence Committee which has representation from both parents and staff. The committee's focus has been the continued emphasis on Project Quality as evidenced by creating and encouraging quality work and high standards in all classrooms, and holding a "Quality Fair" in the spring during which representatives from the community visited classrooms to have the students see the importance and relevance of quality in a non-school context. Both of these ac- tivities have been highly successful and will be continued in the future. The second major focus was addressed through the adoption of The Responsive Classroom model in all classrooms. Responsive Classroom involves the teaching of social skills as well as the academic curriculum. All teachers were trained in the correct procedures and implemented them into their classrooms during a twenty minute Morning Meeting each day. In addition, first grade students received instmction in conflict resolution through the piloting of the Second Step Curriculum through Mothers Against Violence In Schools (M.A.V.I.S.). Many other activities took place this year at Franklin School in addition to those named above. The PTO was very active in sponsoring social events, yearbooks, the karaoke picnic, community involvement projects muffin mornings and donut days, the annual fundraiser, holiday social, bookfairs, the fifth grade outing at Osgood Hill, and end of the year activities. Many parents vol- unteer in the classrooms, office, computer lab, and library to assist the children. We are most appreciative of the continued support of the PTO. The North Andover Enrichment Council presented a wide variety of special assemblies and shows to the students. They included ArtQuest, World of Rhythms, Reptiles and Amphibians, High Touch/I-Iigh Tech, Odd Bodkins, Helen Keller, Poetry in Motion and the Enchanted Circle The- ater. The children always enjoy these programs and we thank the volunteers on the Council for their time and efforts on behaff of the schools. Teachers once again provided many interesting activities and trips for their students. Included in this list would be field trips to the Museum of Science, Logan airport, the seashore, North Shore Music Circus, and many others. Finally I would like to thank all of the students, parents and staff for all that they have done to make the Franklin School a showplace for learning, caring, responsibility, and involvement. Respectfully submitted, PAUL McQuILKIN, PRINCIPAL Klttredge School Parents with rolling video cameras recorded buses and cars spilling out the fresh-faced, eager students who would begin a new year at Kittredge School. Ten classroom teachers, two Special Education teachers, reading, art, music, and physical education specialists as well as a guidance counselor, nurse, principal and five teacher assistants greeted the students as they ran onto the playground. The school year was underway. Several new staff members joined us during the year. Jim Rozzi and Danny Tang custodi- ans, Marcia Boisvert--music teacher, Kristina Vemis (now Stephenson) Title I instructor, Janice Micklo long-term substitute for Special Education, Faith Escudero guidance counselor, and Allison Gorman--teacber assistant. With their capable help, we were able to meet the needs of our 250 students. The Kittredge School Improvement Plan focused our efforts on four Building Initiatives. We worked to 1. refine our present curriculum to more closely align with the Massachusetts Frameworks; 2. implement strategies to strengthen the three school culture characteristics that were identi- fied by staff following completion of the School Culture Survey; 3. fully implement the Responsive Classroom structure for developing a social curriculum si- multaneously with the academic curriculum; and 4. utilize tbe combined efforts of staff, PTO, and School Council to improve attendance at school events and to increase communication between school and community. More detailed infor- mation follows. CURRICLILIJM Many staff members participate on Curriculum Development Committees (CDCs) to improve our program at the district level. That work benefits individual schools because these teachers keep us up to date on the current thinking of each CDC. During this past year, we examined various assessment practices, paying special attention to those that focus on the application of skills and those that encourage self-reflection. We noted that the Massachusetts Frameworks encourage teach- ing that emphasizes problem solving, discovery, and inquiry. We identified parts of our program that reflected these practices and made plans to construct additional units of work that would encourage our students to use these processes more effectively. Technology has made a major impact on our academic program. Teachers tried out new ways of teaching with the help of Anne Bate, Instructional Technology Facilitator and Barbara Henry, Network Manager. For example, a second grade teacher taught her familiar unit on dinosaurs, but used our computers to help the children develop a database of dinosaur information that made it much easier to compare these mammals according to specific criteria. We are developing and sharing an increasing repertoire of such examples. It is important to reach out to parents so that they may understand what changes should occur as part of Education Reform, A major event was designed and orchestrated by parent, Susan Hanson. We held a series of three Math & Science Nights which provided parents with a chance to spend an evening with their school-age children exploring specific math and science topics. The problem solving, discovery, and inquiry practices endorsed by the Massachusetts Frameworks were firmly in place and experienced by all participants, many of whom took ideas home for fur- ther fun. SCHOOL ClJLTURE Experts agree that it takes about three years to develop a positive school culture. This was the third year since redistricting dramatically changed the Kittredge population. Tree to expectations, our families seemed comfortable within the Kittredge learning environment this year. Attendance at school events rose, volunteerism reached a new high and the children reflected this comfort with "their" school by demonstrating a high degree of interest in learning. Outreach programs such as our partnership with The Greenery helped our students to recog- nize the joy of giving to someone else. Third and fifth graders learned that gifts of time can be more meaningful than tangible gifts. Third graders are also involved in the state-supported "Saw ing Makes Sense" program. Our connection is with the Andover Bank's North Andover branch. Bank employees join with the third grade teachers to teach basic banking and saving concepts. Students tour the bank, get a photo Identification, and establish a bank account if they wish. This experience helps students understand the real world application of some of the skills they learn at school. T~m RESPONSIVE CLASSROOM This social skills program, developed by the Northeast Foundation for Children, has had a maj or impact on the peaceful quality of interactions at Kittredge School. Every child is greeted by teacher and classmates as the day begins. They practice appropriate social behaviors and internalize the need for logical consequences for actions. Classroom teachers and support staff share observa- tions and ideas that are intended to strengthen relationships between students and staff. We know from first hand experience that these positive relationships help us deal more effectively with the results of isolated examples of poor decision making. Our school improvement plan helped us to make a difference for all of the families served by Kittredge school. Other programs, provided by the North Andover Enrichment Council, integrated with our curriculum and provided extension experiences. For example, "High Touch/High Tech" was a favorite that gave students the opportunity to explore science topics in greater depth. "Wingmasters" brought birds of prey for the students to see and helped them gain a greater un- derstanding of the place of these birds in the food chain and on the endangered list. "Art Quest" is an annual favorite that helps fourth graders begin to develop an appreciation for specific artists and their works before traveling to an art museum to have a firsthand viewing experience. The last day of this successful year was also memorable. Students designed and ran math games for an outdoor Math Field Day. Excitement was high as students moved through events mn by first through fifth graders and enjoyed ice cream provided by parent, John Costa. The evening brought many families back to school for Family Fun Night, a mini-carnival organized by PTO President, Cheryl Martin. We are grateful to all the families and community members who helped in any way to con- tribute to the Kittredge School 1997-1998 experience! Respectfully submitted, B~,-r.. A_.',rN COYLE, PRINCIPAL Annie L. Sargent School The Annie L. Sargent School enjoyed a successful year during the 1997-98 school year. Both parents and staff alike expressed the belief that the Sargent School has come into its own in this, its third year of educating children. All would agree that a strong sense of community has become a hallmark at the Annie L. Sargent School. We began the school year with all of our staff of teachers and teacher aides returning and welcomed Amy Tedrow as the teacher of the new GLEC class. However, we also experienced some transitions during the school year. In February, third grade teacher Kristen Molnar began a maternity leave. Susan Scandore, who had served as a teacher's aide for three years, was appointed to replace Mrs. Molnar. Mrs. Molnar announced to the staff in may that she was resigning to stay home with her child for a few years. In March, first grade teacher Dana Taylor resigned because she was relocating to St. Louis where her husband was beginning a new job. Amy Guerrera, who had been a teacher's aide here at Sargent for two years, was appointed to replace Mrs. Taylor. Monica O' Leary and Lisa Crichton were hired as the new teacher aides. Beth Cahill, a teacher's aide with three years's experience, resigned to work in her field of training as a lab technician. Michael Bulger and Steven Langlois joined our custodial staff as the night custodians. Finally, at the end of the year, we celebrated the retirement of third grade teacher Jackie Pomphret. Mrs. Pomphret had taught at the Franklin and Atkinson Schools before helping to open the new Annie L. Sargent School. We all wish Jackie well in her retirement. The end of the school year also marks thc end of Principal Thomas Kanc's tenure as Principal of the Annie L. Sargent School. Mr. Kane leaves this position to become Assistant Superintendent of Schools in SAU ~qe29 in Keen¢ New Hampshire. A LE^P.~N~ COMMUNITY It is the active interaction among teachers, students and parents that creates a strong sense of community at the Annie L. Sargent School. All of these constituencies have contributed to the rich diversity of learning experiences in which children have engaged during the year at Sargent School. Evidence of student learning was clearly evident to visitors who walked through the halls of Sargent School this year. The teachers displayed countless examples of the students work on the walls of the school to bring a visual focus on their learning. Examples of students' writing, biographies, personal time lines, creative acrostics, travels of "Flat Stanley", state reports and graphs of all kinds were all featured in every changing displays of the students' work. This year, the annual Academic Fair, brought a focus on the day to day learning activities that the children experience. The twist of the evening was that the students played the role of the teachers and the parents were the students. For the Fourth Grade Science Fair, students demonstrated their use of the scientific method to answer such kid related questions as "what chewing gum holds it flavor the longest?" and "how do different condition affect plant growth?" Over 1800 examples of the students' art work were displayed by Mr. Ruzicka and a host of parent volunteers during the Art Show and Ice Cream Social. The whole students body came together under the direction of Mrs. Caserta to perform in the Holiday and Memorial Day Programs. Teachers and students traveled to many places to extend their learning experiences. These field trips included visits to the Mu- seum of Fine Arts, Drumlin Farms, Pioneers Village, the State House and the U.S.S. Constitu- tion. The North Andover Enrichment Council and the Sargent School PTO made possible a number of special programs for the students. These included 'Wales of Mother Russia" by the Enchanted Theater, storytelling by Odds Bodkin, musing World Rhythms by Tony Vacca, and science pm- grams that intrigued the students like Reptiles and Amphibians and the High Touch/High Tech program. Sargent School was a host site for the Great East Music Festival which gave our stu- dents an opportunity to hear Middle School bands, choruses and orchestras. The PTO, with the leadership of President Leanna Pristash, contributed also a social component to the students' ex- perience with the Holiday Social, Fun Run, Breakfast Buddies weeks and the Ice Cream Social. The PTO also has developed plans and has the funds available to build an addition to the Sargent School Playground. SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT EFFORTS The Annie L. Sargent School Council members this year included teachers Sarah Murphy, Susan Hajjar and Jeanne Caron; parents Lisa Besen, Jane McDade, Kathy DiTroia, Liz Reft, Gail Welch and Marylane Meadows; community members Nancy Ryan and Scott Durgin, and Princi- pal Thomas Kane. The Council used input from staff and parents to develop a School Improve- ment Plan for the 1997-98 school year that also built on the goals of the previous year's plan. The Plan outlined six goal areas; (1) Developing School Culture, (2) Using Technology as an In- structional Tool; (3) Assessment; (4) Differentiating Instruction in the Heterogeneous Classroom; (5) Developing the Wetlands as a Science Area; and (6) Increasing Parents Knowledge of School Curriculum and Student Expectations. A number of committees and study groups were formed to address the specific objectives of these goals. The following is a summary of the work accom- plished this year. 1. Developing School Culture The mission if the Annie L. Sargent School is summed up in the five Students Outcomes state- ments: Sargent Students will · Be Active Learners · Develop Confidence in Themselves as Individuals and Learners · Respect Others and Find Value in Differences · Become Effective Communicators · Take Responsibility For Their Behavior Feedback from teachers and parents suggested that, while everyone had read these statements, there was a low level of understanding of their meaning among the Sargent community. The Council's Objective for the year was to increase student, parent and teacher understanding of these Outcomes by making highlighting connections between the Outcomes and everyday activity at the Sargent School. A committee of teachers including Sarah Murphy, Susan Hajjar, and Katie Cochran, organized a number of school wide activities that focused on these connections. These included the creation of the Writers' Wall where students were encouraged to post samples of their writing; the "Readers are Learners" reading promotion in March, and the "I was recognized for showing respect" sticker program in February. In addition, Mr. Kane highlighted examples of student learning in his weekly Principal's Notes and wrote an article on each of the outcomes over the course of the school year in the Sargent News. 2. Using Technology as an Instructional Tool The staff at the Sargent School continued its effoas to use the technology available in the school effectively as a tool for learning. Each teacher participated in a series of workshops that focused on specific pieces of software and how they can be used in a variety of learning activities. The workshops were conducted by Ann Bate and Barbara Henry and were funded through the Light- house Grant. The Sargent Technology Committee headed by Susan Faro completed the Software Directory that was begun last year and developed a system for piloting new software. 3. Assessment Our objective in the area of assessment this year was to build on the training of a pilot group of teachers in the use of rubrics as an assessment tool and the development of prototype bench- mark assessments in writing. The staff met in graded level meeting biweekly throughout the school year to work on these objectives. Dana Taylor, $oan Redman, Mary-Lou Costello, Jackie Pomphret, Deborah Gesing, Walter Huston and Kay Henry, who had all participated in the training during the 1996-97 school year, shared their knowledge and experience with their colleagues at their re- spective grade levels. During the Fall, each teacher committed to piloting the use of rubrics in their own classroom program and shared their experiences with their colleagues. During late winter and early spring, teachers reviewed sample of writing assessment from other systems and devel- oped an assessment activity and rubric for their particular grade level. The writing assessment were administered to all children at each grade level. At year's end the teachers were analyzing the students work to (a) assess individual student performance; (b) assess the quality of the assess- ment activity; and (c) rewrite the rubric for their grade level. 4. Differentiating Instruction in the Heterogeneous Classroom An action plan to explore how to better differentiate instruction in the heterogeneous class- room was developed as part of the 1996-97 SIP. This year a group of teachers including Maureen Roberts, Brenda Kohl, Amy Rutherford, Deborah Gesing, and Mary Margaret Provost, formed a study group that focused on three needs: specific organizational strateg/es, instructional materi- als that extend the curriculum, and using parent volunteer. This study group met regularly during the year. They piloted strategies that were described in Susan Winebrenner's book Teaching gifted children in the Regular Classroom. The teachers also purchased and piloted a range of instruc- tionai materials. Parents Abbie Ritchie and Elaine Twoomey organized a series of training work- shops for parent volunteers in November to increase the efficiently of the efforts of the many parents who volunteer at the Sargent School. In May, a pilot group of teachers and parents were trained in the Great Books Program. Amy Rutherford, Katie Cochran, leanne Caron, Abbie Ritchie, Mamy Karr and Liz Sharp piloted this program during the last few weeks of school. It is hoped that this program will be an effective in our efforts to differentiate instruction at Sargent. The teacher study group conducted a workshop for parents at the May PTO Meeting that gave parent some first hand knowledge of the strategies and materials that they had piloted during the year. 5. Developing the Wetlands as a Science Area The Sargent School property includes a wetland area of approximately 3.5 acres adjacent to the school. Mary Lou Costello, a second grade teacher, proposed that we explore how to use this resource as an interactive learning center for science. This area inchdes wetland, a small pond, woodlands and a small meadow. A planning committee was organized to develop an action plan to achieve this objective. The Committee included teachers Mary-Lou Costello, Kathy LaFanci, Sarah Murphy, Mary Margaret Provost, parents Kathy DiTrioa and Liz Reti, and Town Conser- vation Administrator, Michael Howard. The committee explored a number of resources to get information about similar resource. Site visits were made to the Thomas Prince School in Princeton and to a wetlands site in Beverly. Mike Howard developed the Annie Sargent School Site Assess- ment and Wildlife Habitat Evaluation report, which outlined the range of plant life and animal life in the site. By the end of the year, the committee had developed a plan that included the building of a raft and dock over the summer and the clearing ora trail that has been mapped out during the Fall. Bradley Bate has volunteered to build the raft/dock as an Eagle Scout project. The commit- tee has also developed plans to apply for grants that will focus on staff training in the autumn. 6. Increasing Parents' Knowledge of Curriculum and Students Expectations Two objectives were attained this year to increase parents' knowledge of curriculum and stu- dents expectations. First, the annual Academic Fair was planned differently this year. Instead of focusing on individual student projects, the Fair highlighted more typically learning activities in which students participate in on a day to day basis. The twist was the students took on the role of the teachers and the parents and visitors assumed the role of students and participated in the learning activities. The second achievement was the selection of a student assignment book that will be used by all students in grades 3-5. The new Sargent "Reminder Binder" will help to create a more uniform way of communicating to parents information about homework, tests and long term as- siguments. In summary, the staff, students and parents of the Sargent School community have all con- tributed to make the 1997-98 school year a successful one. Respectfully submitted, THOMAS KANE, PRINCIPAL Thomson Elementary School The 1997-98 school year was a successful and exciting one for the Thomson School Com- munity! Construction of the new Thomson School began with a gala ground breaking ceremony on Halloween, October 31, 1997. Students, staff, community members, dignitaries and friends of the Thomson gathered to celebrate the beginning of a new em for the Thomson School. A sub- committee of teachers and principal worked fervently with the architect to investigate classroom designs, color schemes, and furnishings for the new school. Students zealously investigated build- ing projects, and read and wrote stories as they watched the new building take shape and form. Slowly, after several months of bulldozing, cement pouring, and erecting steel girders, a new building emerged. There were a few staffing changes at the Thomson School. Ms. Edwards moved from third grade to second grade, Ms. Godden from first grade to third grade, and we welcomed Ms. Katie Cronin to our community as an Instructional Aide in the fourth grade. Perhaps the saddest yet most poignant event of the school year was the retirement of our school secretary of 40 years, Ms. Barbara Currier. Ms. Currier was not only a loyal and respected school employee of North Andover, but also a faithful and much loved friend of all who passed through the Thomson doors. The staff continued to examine ways to improve student learning and the ways we assess that learning. The Thomson School Community focused on a school-improvement plan that included these four major initiatives: · Increase parental & community involvement at the Thomson School and enhance communi- cation among the members of the Thomson School Community · Further develop a cohesive program of literacy instruction in grades 1-5, focusing on Read- ing, Writing, Phonics, and Spelling, and develop teaching strategies to improve student learn- ing · Use computer technology to develop teaching strategies to improve student learning · Develop a long-range plan which meet the instructional goals of the system for new Thomson School The first building initiative, to increase parental & community involvement at the Thomson School and enhance communication among the members of the Thomson School Community, included many activities. The School Council conducted a parent/student needs survey. Staff held a Literacy Night for parents of 1st & 2nd graders, and a Portfolio Session for parents of 4th & 5th graders. The entire Thomson Community celebrated Literacy Day by inviting parents and friends to read one on one with students. The school was bustling with the sounds and sights of reading that November morning! The second initiative, to further develop a cohesive program of literacy instruction in grades 1-5, focusing on Reading, Writing, Phonics, and Spelling and develop teaching strategies to im- prove student learning, realized a deliberate focus on reading to children, with children, and lis- tening to children read. Classroom teachers and specialists alike, saw children engaged in Shared Reading, Guided Reading, DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) time, and Literature Club. Teachers brainstormed and implemented new and effective teaching strategies, continuously examining the way students learn. They assessed the effectiveness of their work with running records, and writ- ing samples, using Saphier's book, The Skillful Teacher, as a staff development tool. A sub com- mittee of teachers investigated various types of graphic organizers and their use, with the long range goal of incorporating the use of graphic organiZers across the curriculum. Several teachers were involved in district wide Curriculum Development Committees to align the North Andover Curriculum with the Massachusetts Frameworks. The third initiative, to use computer technology to develop teaching strategies to improve stu- dent learning, focused on developing activities and lessons that promote usage of technology in the classroom. Teachers participated in a series of workshops that focused on specific pieces of software and how they can be used in a variety of learning activities. The workshops were conducted by Ann Bate and Barbara Henry and were funded through the Lighthouse Grant. The technology initiative was an important one as we anticipated a fully equipped, technologically advanced building in 1999. Finally, our last initiative, to examine the instructional needs of the students at Thomson School found teachers and students involved in various projects focusing on the new school facility. The Thomson School Community appreciated an active and supportive Fro. They sponsored the 2nd Annual Father Daughter Valentine Dance, a gala affair for 2nd through 5th grade students, system wide, and their dads, step dads, or other significant male figures in their lives. They also sponsored the 1 st Annual Mother Son hockey game at Merrimack College. Some other highlights of the year were the Holiday Fair, the Fun Run, the Book Fair and the Muff.ms for Mom and Donuts for Dad. The Thomson Fro, along with the other elementary PTOs, supported The North Andover Enrichment Council which provided a number of special programs for the students. These included "Tales of Motber Russia" by the Enchanted Theater, storytelling by Odds Bodkin, rousing World Rhythms by Tony Vacca, and science programs that intrigued the students like Reptiles and Amphibians and the High Touch/High Tech program. Finally, I would like to thank all those who helped in any way to contribute to the success of the Thomson School during the 1997-98 school year. Respectfully submitted, NANCY JUKINS, PRINCIPAL North AndoYer Middle School I hereby submit my annual report as principal of North Andover Middle School for the 1997- 98 school year. ENROLLMENT The enrollment at the school on October 1, 1997 was 992 students. This represents an increase of 61 students from October 1, 1996. STAFFING During this past year a number of new staff joined us at the middle school in Word Language, Language Arts, Social Studies and Special Education. The full-time World Language teacher, Ms. Chris Sifakis, taught Spanish in all three grades while Ms. Ruth Serijan, a part-time teacher, taught seventh and eighth grade Spanish. Ms. Marsha Gilmore joined us to teach seventh grade Language Arts in Carder House while Ms. Anne Olkovikas has hired to teach Language Arts in eighth grade in Symmes House. The same eighth grade team in Symmes House needed anew Social Studies teacher. We selected Mr. Dan Roy for that position. In the area of Special Education Ms. Darlene Ohlenbusch joined us to develop a new program. ACHON PLAN As in the past two years, the construction project was a major pan of the plan for the school. In February the third and final phase was completed and the third house, Carrier House, was or- ganized. With the completion of this final phase the retrofitted Veterans Memorial Auditorium was also made available to the school and the public. Carrier House also provided for a third Computer Lab that was immediately fully booked by teachers to enhance their curriculum. A Dedication Ceremony was held in June to introduce the community to the completed project. The school implemented a number of major initiatives to funber reinforce the development of the middle school model. In an effort to promote an increased awareness of the middle school model for parents several programs were implemented. First, a major VISION and MISSION statement was developed by the School Council and was presented to parents during the Open Houses. In an effort to improve the Open House program for parents, the school held separate grade-level evening Open Houses for the first time rather than having only one Open House for the whole school. During the winter the school organized its first Back-to-School Night. This evening provided a range of opportunities for parents including observing some of the work com- pleted by their child, enjoying a teacher-student basketball game or socializing with each other rover an ice cream sundae. With the help of a large group of parents an ice cream sundae fest was held for the students on the last day of school. It was this kind of strong parental involvement which attributed to a very successful school year, Three major studies were completed during the year, the results of which will have an impact on future planning for the school. A small group developed a questionnaire for the students to assess how well the school was providing a positive learning environment, especially in regard to ac- ceptance of diversity. The results of the questionnaire reflected a very positive environment at the school but one which could be further enhanced with additional programs. These programs will be implemented in the 1998-99 school year. The second study was completed in the spring after sending a questionnaire to all parents, teachers and students. The study was an effort to assess how well the school was doing with its practice of being organized around heterogeneous (mixed- ability) groups. The results of this "Longitudinal Study" led to a number of recommendations that will also be pursued in the 1998- 99 school year. The third study focused on increasing staff involvement in identifying areas of the program that could be enhanced to improve our alignment with a middle school model of providing com- prehensive programs for students. All of the teachers completed a self-assessment of the school and submitted recommendations to be implemented over the next school year. The middle school also developed a new program in Special Education. This self-contained program, taught by Ms. Darlene Ohlenbusch, was implemented to assist a range of students who required more intensive academic support than what can be provided in the regular inelusionary classroom setting. Students in this new program spent part of their day with Ms. Ohlenbusch and then worked with the rest of the students in regular classrooms. Learning opportunities for the students were greatly enhanced in a number of new areas. Sev- eral teams developed new Interdisciplinary Units, the Related Arts teachers in Health and Cre- ative Problem Solving coordinated their curriculum in several units, and the Odyssey of the Mind program increased the number of teams attending the competition. There was also a major ex- pansion of the eighth grade program to New York City. Two additional teams took pan in this wonderful three day educational trip to the Big Apple. Respectfully submitted, GARY N. OA~C~S, PRINCIPAL High School The 1997-98 school year was a very exciting school year for North Andover High School. In November the New England of Schools and Colleges Visiting Committee arrived at the high school for it's four day, 10 year reaccreditation visit. The Visiting Committee looked at every aspect of North Andover based on the ten standards of membership in the association. These stan- dards range from the quality of our instructional program to the adequacy of our building. The Visiting Committee composed of fourteen professional educators from New England spent four days at the school interviewing staff, parents and students. Visiting classes and reviewing the self study report that had been done by the faculty the year before. This resulted in two significant aspects. The first was on April 27th 1998 the director of the association sent a letter stating the "Commission on Public Secondary Schools that at its March 29,1998 meeting reviewed the re- port of the recent accreditation of North Andover High School and voted to award the school continued accreditation in the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. This means in essence that North Andover High School has met the ten standards of the association. The second significant event flowing from the visit was the Visiting Committee's report. In the report fifty two commendations were made regarding the school. Commendations are gener- ally defined as things in which the school does and outstanding job. Just to point out a few the Commission in specific commended the following: · the linkage between the Statement of Purpose (Philosophy) and the North Andover Education Plan Success for All · talented, professional faculty who effectively deliver high quality instruction in a highly chal- lenging physical environment. · the regular cun'iculum review · the strong commitment to professional development · student respect for the facility by lack of graffiti and vandalism Perhaps the single most heartening recommendation was the one that points out the qualities of our student body. It read "In the area of school climate, there is a definite feeling that educa- tion and the well being of the students at North Andover High School are the primary concern. People are united in their goal of educating young people, but beyond that the theme of respect prevaids all segments of the school community. There exists an atmosphere of kindness, consid- eration, and caring. The committee was most impressed with overwhelming positive and supportive school climate (students are confident, open, well behaved, and articulate." Beyond the commen- dations of the Visiting Committee were also sixty-six recommendations. It is an obligation to be a member in the NEAS&C that the school act on each of these recommendations and report to the Commission within two years. Beginning in April the school began to address some of the recommendations and to plan to address all of them prior to a report due to the Commission on October 1, 1999. It should be noted that one of the recommendations addressed the school facility. As members of the community are aware, North Andover High Schools interstructure is deteriorating and the open concept does not serve the educational process for faculty or students. The Commission highlighted one of it's recommendations as something that needed particular attention. It stated "Utilize the results of the plan of the Feasibility study to most effectively meet the learning needs of students. Beyond the accreditation visit may other activities occupied the school staff and School Coun- cil. A good deal of activity surrounded the following areas: · All department worked to implement the state frameworks and prepare for the upcoming MCAS tests. The MCAS test, as tenth grade parents can attest was as predicted very difficult and con- sumed many hours of the school day. The state has indicated that they will have results of that test in November. Strengthen our technology program with the automation of the Library connecting the guid- ance to the administration in order to do the critical functions of course scheduling. The cre- ation of a second PC lab and connecting the Interact to all of the labs in the building. During the year there was a great deal of enthusiasm and student interest in using the new technology and many teachers began using the intemet directly in their course work. School Council set as a goal "Encourage instructional practices that actively engage students (who have diverse learning styles) in their own learning." This goal is not only in keeping with the directions of the state frameworks but also is in recognition of our increasing knowledge of how students learn. It is not a goal that will be accomplished in an single year, but I am pleased to report that many teachers are finding new ways of reaching students and making their learning more meaningful. As mentioned before in the use of Technology and also we have been working to expose students to the world of work as a way of showing them that the kinds of skills that we are teaching in the school are indeed needed in the work place. The year ended with another very fine graduation with exemplary student behavior and a spirit of accomplishment. The community should be very proud of the young people who graduate from North Andover High School knowing that they must continue their education throughout life to be successful workers and citizens. North Andover Middle School Library The 1997-98 school year was our first full year in the new library media center and our first year on-line. The construction project continued through part of February with a few classes us- ing library space; after February vacation, the project was essentially complete and the facility full available for the library program. We were busy almost always, as usual; however, with four- teen networked computers, the daily activity had certainly changed. Students looked up books on our on-line catalog via the Winnebago System, used Grolier Encyclopedia on CD Rom, World Book Encyclopedia networked version, created their own projects on Hyper-Studio, and used Infotrac, our automated magazine index. They also used the Interact frequently, after they and their parents signed an Acceptable Use Policy delineating roles and expectations for Internet and computer use. Each sixth grade team spent a week in the library learning the new layout, reviewing library and research skills, and learning to use new tools. Students in upper grades learned how to oper- ate the equipment and use the software as well; we held many classes to teach these skills in con- nection with ongoing research and curriculum projects. New teaching methods have certainly taken hold at NAMS. A more student-centered curricu- lum orientation, with inquiry-based learning and an emphasis on multiple intelligences, brings more and varied research and projects, which in mm bring more library use. Students did research on a myriad of subjects, from styles and contributions of rock groups; daily life and culture of different peoples at different times; artists and their masterpieces; to creating a mythological civi- lization with its own gods and goddesses. The library is an extension of the classroom, and stu- dents worked cooperatively in groups here as they do elsewhere. While a few students restricted their research to electronic tools, for thc most part students needed more books to accompany the software rather than less. Fortunately, this year we were provided with some additional funds from the building project and made progress in meeting these needs. We were similarly able to pur- chase videos to support the curriculum. Each classroom now has a television; ours is connected to cable. We also have an "S" cable connecting a computer to the TV, which is an effective teaching tool for introducing the use of electronic tools. We have a great new setup available for the first time: 13 VCRs wired through- out the building, allowing any number of classrooms to view videos or TV programs at any one time. Teachers took frequent advantage of this for team viewing. Our TWENTY PLUS BOOK CLUB, consisting of students who read twenty or more books during the year, celebrated in June with a pizza patty provided by PTAC. Much of the time there was a flurry of activity, with people browsing through magazines and selecting books, as well as doing research. Students kept staff and volunteers busy with technical needs accompanying the new hardware and software, while we ali learned more about the on- line system. Students also visited the library after school more than in the past, especially those who do not have computers at home. The school year was a busy and successful one. North Andover High School Library STAFF One Library/Media Specialist One Library Assistant (Two persons sharing the job) Two Student Aides COLLECTION 000 249 Fiction 2,347 100 287 Short Story 263 200 215 Professional 102 300 2,183 Reference 1,382 400 162 500 1,436 Total: 16,724 600 1,027 New Books Added 443 700 I, 185 Discarded/Withdrawn 3 800 2,050 Paid For: 9 books, 10 periodicals 900 2,726 Lost due to students leaving school: 6 books CIRCULATION Yearly Total (number of items owned): 2,625 books and periodicals Audio-Visual Equipment Loan: 1,721 items loaned from the library; in addition, overhead projectors, cassette players, sound/filmstrip projector, and TV/VCR setup were on school-year loan in individual departments. LII~RARY USAGE Number of classes using the library and studio facilities for library research, class assignments and audiovisual viewing: 1,884 classes. Number of students working individually (on passes) from study hall and/or classes: 15,698. BUDGET Library Audio-Visual Books 9,240 Equipment 2,000 Periodicals 4,282 A.V. Supplies 1,550 Library Supplies 1,200 Software 600 Microfilm 5,339 Service Contracts 1,126 Federal Funds 0 Instructional Equipment 2,100 Computer Supplies 500 Total, Library & A. V.: $27,937 NEASC ACCREDITATION The library received a very favorable report from the NEASC Committee with several worth- while recommendations that we are working on implementing. ELECTRONIC CARD CATALOG AND CIRCULATION The Winnebago program; which runs on both PC and MAC platforms, has been up and run- ning since the beginning of the school year. The card catalog is very effective and easy to use. Students easily acclimated to the new system. The key word search system has students access- ing books that have previously received little use. By tracking circulation patterns for six months, we discovered that 44% of all the books that circulated had not circulated in two years or more. One hundred forty-one tires circulated this year that have not circulated in more than seven years. SHAKESPEARE ~ COMPANY ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCY This was the fifth year of the Artist-in-Residency program with Shakespeare & Company. Our fourth full Shakespeare production. "Measure for Measure," was a remarkable success. In addi- tion, cast and crew participated in the Fall Festival of Shakespeare in Pittsfield, MA, for two full days. We were also able to have three English classes and their teachers work for four weeks in their classrooms. The Massachusetts Cultural Council has again awarded North Andover High School a grant to continue this program. After five years, the administration and operation of the program has been turned over to the English Department. Department of Health, Physical Education & Athletics The 1997-1998 school year saw no additions or changes in our health and physical education staff. We continue to provide physical education to all elementary students twice a week, twice in a six day cycle to middle school, daily for one semester to high school freshmen and sopho- mores and to update our health education offerings to our students. Our staffing continues to improve and we hope to be able to restore physical education to grades 11 and 12 in the future. Our students continue to excel in the President's Challenge fitness tests with close to 100 students in grades 4 through 9 achieving presidential level (top 15%) and approximately 650 students at the national level (top 50%). This year the Curriculum Development Committee for health and physical education contin- ued to revise and develop our curriculum to meet the standards of the Health Framework. We look forward to this group providing new direction as we head to the Goals 2000. The school department funding of athletics provided 100% of the budget this year. This fund- ing allowed for the elimination of user fees for student-athletes for the first time since 1990-1991. The sports of Girls Volleyball and Boys Lacrosse were added at the sub-varsity level this year and anticipate varsity participation in the 1998-1999 school year. An extensive after school activities program was offered at the Middle School this year, and an open gym was run at the high school during the summer evenings, thanks to a grant received to fund these programs. HEALTH EDUCATION 1. The Project DARE program was continued for 6th grade students. A $4,000 grant from the Department of Education allowed us to offer a wide range of activities. The North Andover Police Department and DARE Officer Tracy Castiglione in particular, have been extremely cooperative in making this program a success. 2. For the eleventh consecutive year, the North Andover Public Schools rer,.eived a Drug Free Schools grant through the Department of Education. This year's grant was $20,958 which funded the stipend for the Coordinator of Project Charlie, paid for guest speakers, educational material, after school programs as well as programs offered by the Deparuaent of Youth Services. 3. The Project Charlie program was successfully taught by close to 40 volunteers in grades I, 3 and 5. 4. The Health Protection Grant of $88,305 provided for health education staffing, a Lead Health teacher, peer mediation for elementary, middle and high school students, the middle school after hours program, Youth Services activities; smoking cessation offerings; and professional development opportunities for the health and physical education staff. 5. Health Education was taught to all students in grades 4-9 by health education teachers. ATHLETICS The coaching staff and student-athletes have worked hard this past year and have achieved various levels of success. Most notably were the league championship teams of golf, gifts soccer, gifts skiing and wrestling. Several teams qualified for state tournament competition and many student-athletes participated in individual competitions at the sectional and state level. Several teams won league championships, including golf, girls soccer, gifts skiing and wres- tling. Several individual accomplishments were noteworthy. Patrick Sbeehan was selected Cape Ann League player of the year in football, as well as Boston Globe all scholastic; Nick Montuori was Cape Ann League golf open champion; Alison Pappas was selected Cape Ann League player of the year in soccer and Boston Globe AIl Scholastic; Kim Russo was champion in the Merrimack Valley Conference on uneven bars, and balance beam in gymnastics as well as being selected Boston Globe All Scholastic for the fourth year in a row; David Brown was Cape Ann League wrestler of the year and won both sectional and state championships and David Nelson won the Cape Ann League Open singles title for the fourth year, was North sectional champion and was selected Boston Globe All Scholastic. In closing I would like to thank the North Andover Athletic Association/Sportswagon, the high school coaches and our student-athletes who continue to provide the efforts which make our pro- gram a success. My position continues to offer an exciting and enjoyable challenge. I look for- ward to being an integral part of our future improvement and growth. ! wish to publicly thank the school committee and Superintendent George I. Blaisdell for the elimination of user fees and providing a co-curricular program to all students at North Andover High School. Respectfully submitted, JOHN W. STEPHENSON DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND ATHLETICS Fine and Performing Arts The Fine and Performing Arts Department in North Andover completed another productive year. A continued focus of instruction has been expanding interdisciplinary units and activities at ail levels. As a result, students are increasingly making the eounections between the f'me and per- forming arts as extensions of learning in all seven disciplines. The members of the department worked throughout the year on new curriculum. They modi- fied the existing curriculum and included new components of instruction and assessment. They were joined by a consultant from Boston University, Dr. Judith Simpson. The elementary program expanded in many directions. The FY99 budget permitted the dis- trict to increase the teaching staff with a .2 position assigned to the Bradstreet Kindergarten Cen- ter. The year concluded with the retirement of Lead Teacher, Mr. Jim Wiltshire. The Middle School art program continues to grow under the capable direction of Don Latham and Floreen Maroncelli. Following a carefully designed program, their students are exposed to a variety of mediums and encouraged to expand their own creative abilities. At the High School, Cathleen Calmer and Joel Groessel offer rich artistic experiences to stu- dents in photography, art and cerarrdc courses. An Interdisciplinary Course, American Thought, gave a class of Juniors opportunities to examine the connections between history, literature and art during the Twentieth Century. Respectfully submitted, RONALD B1NKNEY ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT Special Education Over the course of the 1997-1998 school year, the North Andover School District provided special education and related services to a total of 630 students between the ages of three and twenty-one. This represents approximately 13% of the total student population and is below the state average yet slightly higher than the national average. These students have been identified through a comprehensive referral and evaluation process. In an effort to provide staff with a re- source guide regarding the special education process, a Special Education Procedural Guidebook was developed and Inservice training offered to ail administrators and special education staff. In accordance with the school district's local Child Find Program, referrals for students between the ages of 3 through 21 who are suspected of having an educational disability can be made at any time by contacting the office of the Administrator of Special Education. The Federal Special Education Law, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), was amended and signed into law on June 4, 1997. A copy of the supplement to the Massachusetts Department of Education Parents' Rights Brochure was mailed to parents informing them how the new law may affect their child's program. Included in that brochure was a section on partici- pation in state and district wide assessments. IDEA - 97 specifies that ail students with disabili- ties must be included in general and district wide assessment programs, with accommodations, where necessary. The intent of the provision is to hold high expectations for students with dis- abilities and ensure their access to the general curriculum to the maximum extent possible. A full range of special education and educationally related services is available to North Andover students. These services are described in detail in the Three Year Special Education Plan which is located in the Office of the Superintendent of Schools. The services provided are indi- vidually determined by a TEAM of people knowledgeable about the student and are designed to ensure that each child's educational needs are met within the least restrictive environment. North Andover is committed to providing students with a developmental continuum of learning experi- ences, which will encompass the diverse needs of all students within their home school, along with age appropriate peers within the general education classroom with appropriate support ser- vices to the maximum extent possible. As a school system we broadened our knowledge and abili- ties in developing and implementing programming for children with increasingly complex and diverse needs. We hired several teacher/student assistants, and contracted with various consult- ants to assist us in our efforts to provide for many of our children with disabilities within a regu- lax classroom environment. Inservice training and support was provided to both staff and parents in various areas including: The Spectrum of Autism/PDD, Behavioral Management/Inclusion Strategies, Administering and Interpreting the Woodcock Johnson Psychoeducational Battery of Tests, Evaluations and Reporting Format, Attention Deficit Disorder, Early Literacy and Read- ing Strategies, Hearing Impairments, Teachers Role with Paraprofessionals and others. The Spe- cial Education paraprofessionals attended a series of inservice training surrounding the following topics: Overview of Special Education, Behavioral Management, Characteristics of Students with Disabilities, Roles/Responsibilities and Teaming, Communication with staff, students, parents, and Modifications and Instructional Strategies. Through the collaborative planning of administrators, teachers and staff, we have continued to explore alternative approaches in coordinating the delivery of services to our children. Read- ing specialists continue to be a tremendous resource in providing a direct and consultative ser- vice to staff and students as we accommodate all learners, The building based teams, through the prereferral process, continue to assist the teachers in examining alternative teach- ing strategies and modifications geared more toward the student's learning style, along with iden- tifying existing support and consultation services available. It is through these means that we have been able to reduce the number of referrals to special education and provide the opportunity for our students to succeed in regular education. The principals and administrators continue to play a very active role in the special education process as evidenced by their personal involvement in the development of Individual Education Plans and other TEAM meetings. Their active involvement in this process has greatly improved our ability to focus on the students as learners and has fostered communication, collaboration and team building as we explore various models of instruction. The preschool program continues to provide a safe supportive, and nurturing environment that promotes the physical, social, emotional and cognitive development of our young children with and without disabilities. Parent involvement remains a critical component of the program's suc- cess. Given the increase in the children identified as having special needs by age three, the pre- school continued with six classes this year. The North Andover Parents Advisory Council for Special Education, through the efforts of Chairperson, Kim Kelly, continued to support and assist parents of children with special needs. Project applications for federal monies were completed and submitted to the Department of Education for approval and funding in conjunction with the Consolidated Grant Application. En- titlement monies received were once again allocated to support in-district programs with staff- ing, supplies and professional development workshops and conferences. In closing, I would like to express my sincere thanks to all administrators, staff, parents, and community members, for their endless contributions and collaboration in providing for the needs of all our children. Respectfully submitted, KAn-mEn,: M. CONLIN ADMINISTRATOR SPECIAL EDUCATION Technology As our Curriculum Development Committees implement new curricular changes and the Massachusetts Frameworks standards become uniform, so too does technology integration be- come more embedded into educational reform. Highlights included: · Implementation of the District Lighthouse Technology Grant. Staff development was provided at each school, training teachers to access the relational data base housing the Massachusetts with Stale Frameworks and the North Andover Curriculum. Grant funding also allowed all K-5 teachers to be trained in utilizing existing software applications with focus on classrooms integration. · Expansion of the Wide Area Network (WAN) to include the high school. Today, the high school administrative office, the media center, guidance offices, directors' offices, math and science labs, business department lab, and all department chairpersons' offices are connected via serv- ers. Administrators, teachers and students all have on-line access to internet, library and other world-wide resources at the desktop. Library automation was installed and the 56 kb connec- tion was enhanced by Media Express to T1 service. The Technology Bond Bill funding will allow for further expansion of the WAN at the High School and Bradstreet School. · Phases II & III of the Middle School renovation project were completed. Hardware, includ- ing teacher and student computers and printers, were added and networked to servers in both Freeman and Carrier Houses. The model of there student computers/classrooms was comple~l for the entire renovation project. The school district has made great strides in fulfilling its mission set forth in the Five Year Technology Plan. Still, much remains to be accomplished in the years to come in integrating tech- nology into daily lessons for students, maintaining and servicing the huge fleet of hardware/com- puters/servers/printers, and replacing hardware that is no longer functional. Respectfully submitted, Ron~RT S. PARr, ER DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOOY Community Programs As the district's user fee funded service provider to families for both child care and enrich- ment programs, our programs focused on the following areas: · Parents' increasing needs for quality child care for before and after school hours. Once again, quality child care, coupled with ever present space constraints, was the driving force for our elementary school programs. There are now three after school sites, Bears'Stop.t at Bradstreet, and Kids' Stop! at both the Franklin and Sargent schools, offering care until 6 P.M., and three Breakfast Clubs located at the same schools that offer care, beginning at 7 A.M. Our Sargent site is new this year and filled to capacity immediately. · Our Extended Kindergarten day program, which offers care for the other half of the kinder- garten day, was again filled to capacity. This program achieved reaccreditation, granted to 5% of early childhood programs nationally, from the National Academy for Early Childhood Edu- cation in recognition of program quality and dedication of staff. This was granted after a year long self-study of our program, with on site visitation and observation by certified NAEYC staff. · Curriculum day care for children in our programs enabled us to visit areas as diverse as Russell Farm, and Cedardale, and host magic shows and song rests. · EXCEL our after hours enrichment program, offered traditionally popular courses such as ski- ing, fencing, golfing, art lessons, and science experimentation for elementary students through our fall and winter/spring sessions. High school students were involved in certification for driv- ing through our Driver Education program and for college prep through SAT courses. · Summer school offered students the oppon'unity to experience small, interactive and intensive classes, with the hope of strengthening their knowledge positively to allow them to continue with their courses on schedule. · Summer camps gave students in grades K through 9 a variety of both athletic and academic experiences and fun. · Volunteers. In a mutually rewarding experience, we included our middle and high school stu- dents, and college students from Merrimack and Salem State, in our child care programs. We also offered free baby-sitting services, both at home and at the high school, for parents who wished to attend our annual Town Meeting. Respectively submitted, NOEL HAYES, DIRECTOR Business Services This report includes the following areas of business services: 1. Transportation 2. Building & Facilities 3. Energy TRANSPORTATION During the 97198 school year students were transported at public expense from the following distances: School Greater than No. of buses No. of students High School 2.0 8 521 Middle School 2.0 13 603 Elementary 1.5 See Note 855 Early Childhood Ctr. 0.5 See Note 283 St. Michael's 0 See Note 148 Note: A total of 13 buses were used to transport students to and from the elementary schools, ECC and St. Michael's. The school district provides transportation to the students of St. Michael's School to the same extent as it provides transportation to like students attending the public schools. The elementary schools remained on a split schedule due to the limited number of buses avail- able. We operate a four tier transportation system. In accordance with School Committee Policy, paid busing was made available to students at- tending their district school or involuntarily transferred out of district who lived within the desig- nated walking distance. The ABC Bus Co. provided this service for an annual fee of $210.00. Paid busing is only offered to students attending their dis~ct school or involuntarily trans- fen'ed out of district. Paid busing will not be offered to pupils whose parents have turned down an opportunity to return to their neighborhood school, or for pupils who have voluntarily trans- fen'ed out of their neighborhood school. The method for determining bus stops for paid riders is the same as for bus stops made for eligible riders. Preferential service will not be given to paid riders. Many parents expressed their frustration and disappointment that the School Department only funds the operation of thirteen school buses. The Business Office received over 130 written re- quests for bus stop and mute changes. For the most pan parents are not familiar with Committee policies that govern the development of bus routes and the placement of stops. However, dissemi- nation of transportation information remains a priority. B[..I. DINO AND FAClLrrmS At the May 12, 1997 Annual Town Meeting, the School Depa~hnent reque~xt funding for eight School Facility Capital Improvement Projects. Five of the eight projects were approved. With these funds we accomplished the following. We removed and replaced two underground oil storage tanks at the Franklin School; enhanced educational spaces at the Bradstreet School by installing new lighting and new ceilings; removed and replaced windows at the Franklin School; initiated Phase III of our ADA program at the Kittredge School; installed infrastructure/equipment at many schools as part of a comprehensive technology plan. Town Meeting also approved the construction of a new Thomson Elementary Schoo1--$8,400,000 was appropriated. In addition to the Capital Projects, 59 Special Projects were initiated and completed during the school year. A very siguifi- cant accomplishment was the re-roofing of the Bradstreet School. All safety related work was addressed as well as many maintenance and cosmetic projects. The Middle School Additions/Renovations Project was completed on schedule and on bud- get. We moved into the spaces made available by phase three in Febmary 1998, as planned. Construction the new Thomson Elementary School Commenced during the month of Octo- ber 1997. As with the Sargent School and Middle School construction projects, the Thomson project is on schedule and on budget. ENERGY As first reported to you last year we participate in the Greater Lawrence Educational Collaborative's Cooperative Purchasing Program. We signed a one year contract, for natural gas, with a firm that guaranteed savings of at least 13.5% below that of the local distribution/gas com- pany. We subsequently extended the contract for a second year and continued to receive discounts between 13.5 % and 18%. We have been pleased with the results of this program and will con- tinue to participate in the Collaborative's initiative. Similar opportunities will be explored in the purchase of electricity. While we have enjoyed the benefit of the Standard Offer, 10% from Mas- sachusetts Electric, deregulation of power companies to the degree necessary to support competi- tive bidding, has been slow in coming. The Collaborative is monitoring the electricity situation, and will keep us informed as to any future opportunities for additional savings. As usual, we will respond and participate at the appropriate time. Respectfully submitted, PAUL P. SZYMANSK1 DtRECTOR, IVIANAGEMENT SUPPORT SERVICES School Lunch Program In concluding the school year 1997-98 the following information is provided: 1. The Food and Nutrition Department served school lunches a total of 180 days. The num- ber of reimbursable meals served was 257,042 broken down as follows: a) Paid 223,900 b) Free 25,741 c) Reduced 7,401 Average meals per day 1428 2. Other meals served are broken down as follows: a) Teachers 6303 b) Free (Adult Help) 11,731 This school year found us receiving $29,182.46 (Market Value) in government commodities. The total reimbursement of reimbursable meals: paid, free and reduced was $115,372.50. To recap income the breakdown is as follows: SALES Student Student Teacher A La Carte A La Carte Misc. Student Meals Sales Foods Milk Income $324,045.20 $15,954.80 Grand total income from sales Cash Sales School Reimbursements Total Moneys Commodities (Market Value) Total All $166,069.60 $540,914.16 $540,914.16 $115,372.50 $605,735.12 $29,182.46 $624,543.27 $19,678.40 $15,166.16 The School Year has shown a participation rate of 36%. Our net worth is as follows: Inven- tory $37,898.58 (actual cash value) and a cash balance of $78,653.01. Closing Cash Balance Functions Receivable Claims Receivable $78,653.01 $1,865.65 $8,062.68 Cash Available $88,581.34 Accounts Payable $ 7,692.30 Adjusted Cash Balance $80,889.04 As always, I attribute the success of the North Andover School Lunch Program to very pro- fessional and motivated employees. I am very fortunate to work with highly supportive Adminis- trators and a staff that truly cares about providing healthy meals to our students. The Govemment Commodity Program seems to be offering less and less each year. It was a great challenge writing menus that were both enticing to our students and cost effective to our program. I anticipate an increase of at least 5% in food cost for next year making my job even more challenging for the year to come. Total revenue increased just over 8% this year. Since lunch prices remained the same, I at- tribute this increase to very careful purchasing techniques and the ability to provide our students with a variety of healthy and nutritious menu selections that they want to eat. The opening of the Middle School Cafeteria was a huge success, due to the support of Ad- ministration and a very dedicated staff. We increased meal choices by adding a fresh salad bar, pasta and taco bars and a hot sub line. The students expressed great satisfaction with their new kitchen and meal selection. Participation increased 10% at the Middle School from last year. I look back on a very productive school year for the School Lunch Program and look forward to the challenges and goals set forth for next school year. Respectfully submitted, Emr,~ E Mum,}~¥ DIRECTOR OF FOOD SERVICES Conclusion We have much to do as we look to meeting the expectations of the future. In September 1998 we admitted the Class of 2011 to our kindergarten. As adults, ninety percent (90%) of these chil- dren will be working at jobs that do not exist today; over their lifetimes, they will work in five to six different career fields. It is clear that the future will be much more complex- that our stu- dents will have to be flexible, be able to take the knowledge they have gleaned in one area and use it in other career areas, that they will have to be able to work successfully as members of teams; and they will clearly have to be people who can solve problems and think critically. In order to provide our children with the skills they will need to meet the demands of the future, we are go- ing to have to change our curriculum and instructional strategies and the way we assess perfor- mance. We look forward to meeting this challenge with your support. I would like to extend my sincere thanks and deep appreciation to those of you in the commu- nity who have volunteered your time in our schools and are working in other ways on behalf of our children. To quote the words of Garrison Keeler, "Nothing we do for children is ever wasted." Respectfully submitted, WILL~a~ E. ALLE~, ED.D. SuPEm~rmr~Em oF SCHOOLS Fiscal Year 1 998 Adopted Budget and Expenditures and Encumbrances Depa~ment Operating Operating Departmental Expenses Expenses Turnbacks/ Budget Expended Balance GENERAL GOVERNMENT Moderator 0.00 Town Manager 97,960.76 (97,960.76) 0.00 Finance Committee 8,500.00 (8,611.76) (111.76) Accountant 5,896.00 (7,239.29) (1,343.29) Assessors 79,650,00 (81,191.83) (1,541.83) Treasurer/Collector 161,143.29 (149,603.37) 11,539.92 Audit 18,000.00 (18,000.00) 0.00 Town Counsel 26,840.00 (26,840.00) 0.00 Special Legal Services 197,598.01 (178,313.43) 19,284.58 Personnel 9,036.94 (9,036.94) 0.00 Town Clerk 60,430.00 (58,860.34) 1,569.66 Conservation Commission 4,609.79 (4,609.42) 0.37 Community Development 58,779.34 (58,779.34) 0.00 Planning Board 9,829.02 (9,403.85) 425.17 Zoning Board of Appeals 1,286.81 (1,124.82) 161.99 Industrial Development Comm 0.00 Building 10,584.35 (9,301.53) 1,282.82 Animal Inspector 0.00 Animal Control 0.00 Weights and Measures 300.00 0.00 300.00 Collective Bargaining COLA Subtotal 31,567.63 Pu~uc SAFETY Police 340,333:00 (341,406.09) (1,073.09) Fire 154,472.00 (152,517.47) 1,954.53 Emergency Management 5,104.00 (5,092.58) 11.42 Subtotal 892.86 ]~DUCATION: N.A. Public Schools School Building Committee Techncial HS Assessment Subtotal 5,008,764.00 (5,005,189.46) 3,574.54 8,441.00 (8,394.99) 46.01 115,712.00 (115,712.00) 0.00 3,620,55 Department Operating Expenses Budget Operating Expenses Expended Departmental Turnbacks/ Balance PUBLIC WORKS: Building Maintenance Administration/Engineering Streets Snow Removal Solid Waste GLSD Sewer Water Vehicle Maintenance Graves Registration Parks and Grounds Subtotal HUMAN SERVICES: Health Council on Aging Youth Services Veteran's Benefits Veteran's Quarters Stevens Library Recreation Historical Commission Patriotic Celebrations Subtotal FIXED 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 Subtotal 162,748.00 23,550.00 226,700.00 302,000.00 1,115,714.00 921,946.00 288,553.98 475,235.02 169,850.00 13,527.09 84,584.60 14,250.00 5,500.00 212,685.00 9,000.00 2,588,335.99 370,000.00 1,881,218.00 1,146,019.00 60,000.00 1,352,255.00 16,000.00 30,000.00 2,575,270.00 262,4O2.OO (172,208.13) (20,397.42) (216,579.80) (301,701.33) (1,113,327.33) (921,946.00) (288,081.74) (473,147.56) (168,076.54) (12,938.99) (84,584.60) (14,009.83) (4,339.42) (212,685.00) (4,486.65) (2,586,584.00) (370,000.O0) (1,834,489.55) (1,143,928.74) (51,767.78) (1,352,255.00) (12,936.02) (23,030.60) (2,554,000.05) (258,035.09) (9,460.13) 3,152.58 10,120.20 298.67 2,386.67 0.00 472.24 2,087.46 1,773.46 0.00 0.00 10,831.15 588.10 0.00 240.17 1,160.58 0.00 0.00 4,513.35 0.00 0.00 6,502.20 0.00 1,751.99 0.00 46,728.45 2,090.26 8,232.22 0.00 3,063.98 6,969.40 21,269.95 4,366.91 94,473.16 TOTAL GENERAL Fur~o OPERATING BUDGET - EXPENSES 146,994,69 Department Personnel Services Budget Personnel Services Expended Departmental Turnbacks/ Balance GENERAL GOVERNMENT 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 Comm Building Animal Inspector Animal Control Weights and Measures Collective Bargaining COLA Subtotal PUBLIC SAFETY Police Fire Emergency Management Subtotal EDUCATION N.A. Public Schools School Building Committee Techncial HS Assessment Subtotal 150.00 160,667.24 85,371.70 145,939.07 231,255.76 25,785.01 96,822.36 63,196.84 86,493.35 64,740.05 11,933.35 173,744.64 3,600.00 2,803.19 13,050.53 2,512,898.24 2,473,727.85 4,275.96 16,030,895.00 (15o.oo) (160,667.24) (85,371.7O) (145,939.07) (231,255.76) (25,785.01) (96,822.36) (63,196.84) (86,493.35) (64,740.05) (11,933.35) (173,744.64) (3,600.00) (2,587.56) (2,512,898.24) (2,434,661.60) (4,275.96) 14,673,991.28) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 215.63 13,050.53 13,266.16 0.00 39,066.25 0.00 39,066.25 1,356,903.72 0.00 0.00 1,356,903.72 Department Personnel Services Budget Personnel Services Expended Departmental Turnbacks/ Balance PUBLIC WORKS Building Maintenance Administration/Engineering Streets Snow Removal Solid Waste GLSD Sewer Water Vehicle Maintenance Graves Registration Parks and Grounds Subtotal I-[UM AN SERVICES Health Council on Aging Youth Services Veteran's Benefits Veteran's Quarters Stevens Library Recreation Historical Commission Patriotic Celebrations Subtotal FIXED 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 State Assessment County Assessment Subtotal 234,071.85 260,877.69 178,212.64 59,000.00 177,746.00 284,912.12 344,003.49 105,605.30 104,532.41 121,461.96 74,227.79 400.00 396,581.79 18,380.00 (260,869.72) (207,397.45) (178,073.18) (58,605.95) (207,892.89) (265,420.19) (353,532.77) (102,219.97) (104,463.29) (121,427.08) (74,227.79) (400.00) (396,581.79) (18,305.00) (26,797.87) 53,~0.~ 139.46 394.05 (30,146.89) 0.00 19,491.93 (9,529.28) 3,385.33 0.00 0.00 10,416.97 0.00 69.12 34.88 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 75.00 0.00 0.00 179.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 TOTAL GENERAL FUND OPERATING BUDGET - SALARIES 1,419,832.10 General Fund Revenue Personal Property Real Estate 1998 Prior years 1998 1997 Prior years Rollback Taxes Farm Animal Excise Water Lien Int Add to Taxes Sewer Liens Sewer Assessments Water Assessments Water Liens Committed Lntemst Traffic Light Betterment Motor Vehicle Excise 1998 1997 1998 1997 1998 1997 1996 1998 1997 1996 PriorYears Hotel Room Occupancy Tax Payment in Lieu of taxes Tax Title Water Rates Water Hookups Water/Main/Construction Sewer Rates Water/Sewer Lien Release Betterment Pre-Assessment Brentwood Ave Phase II Bonnyland Phase IH Sewer Rate Relief Fund Interest Property Taxes Tax Title Lien Certificates Bond premium 837,304.33 3,305.39 27,924,094.60 300,678.89 (3,774.16) 3,635.94 1,348.26 14,202.78 65,920.58 10,006.95 76,110.85 9,038.00 (49.88) 109,620.48 8,492.97 260.36 11,028.03 18,718.51 2,156,615.63 584,585.37 29,002.44 10,236.50 2,249.00 22,422.87 296,118.41 2,972,471.09 169,681.50 9,786.00 1,813,797.10 175.00 7,174.30 7,225.10 22,567.00 103,302.51 70,624.31 48,290.45 21,288.14 Subtotals 840,609.72 28,220,999.33 3,635.94 1,348.26 14,202.78 75,927.53 85,148.85 (49.88) 118,373.81 11,028.03 18,718.51 2,780,439.94 2,249.00 22,422.87 296,118.41 3,151,938.59 1,813,797.10 175.00 14,399.40 22,567.00 173,926.82 48,290.45 21,288.14 STATE RECE~rs LOSS of tax - veterans benefit Elderly Abatements Reimbursement for Blind Loss of Tax Elderly Persons Tuition of State Wards School Aid GL Chapter 70 Trans of Pupils Ch 71 Police Career Incentive School Construct SBAB reimburse Local Aid Additional Assistance Lottery Aid Highway Fund State Owned Land 18,364.00 14,212.00 1,750.00 39,658.00 28,893.00 2,450,540.00 237,526.00 80,475.00 607,534.00 151,695.00 1,457,552.00 130,989.00 78,122.00 5,297,310.00 DEPARTMENTAL RECEIPTS Town Manager/Selectmen Cable Fees Liquor Licenses Other Alcohol Licenses Food Licenses Miscellaneous Licenses Treasurer/Collector Demand/Bad Check Charge Investment Interest D&F Betterment Repayment Town Acct Misc Revenue Town Acct Misc Revenue Assessor's Dept Fees Town Clerk Fees Conservation Fees Planning Board Filing Fees Board of Appeals Fees Police Department Dog Fees Police l 0% Administrative Fees Miscellaneous Revenue Parking Fines Court Fines Bulletproof vests Fire Department Ambulance Service Permits False Alarm fee Building Department Inspection Fees Plumbing Fees Electrical Fees Gas permits 3,924.50 43,200.00 2,520.00 2,150.00 3,630.00 1,130.50 328,159.01 61,050.00 5,237.00 25.00 573.00 29,296.74 623.50 65,435.87 1,845.87 2,569.00 2,648.33 9,705.00 105,485.00 399.00 299,351.38 33,600.25 4,300.00 321,707.50 68,854.50 99,200.00 17,783.00 55,424.50 390,339.51 5,262.00 573.00 29,296.74 623.50 65,435.87 1,845.87 28,399.89 149,206.22 337,251.63 507,545.00 Civil Defense Reimburse School Department Rental Fees Miscellaneous Medicare Reimbursement Department of Public Works Misc. Water Dept. Trash - Neswick Recycling Fees Bathing Beach Receipts Fishing/Boating License State Grant Revenue GAT Neswick Program Health Department Fees Library Fines Total General Fund Receipts SP£C~L R~VENUE Fmms School Lunch program Receipts Federal Aid Reimburse State Aid Reimburse Earnings on Investments School Department Athletic Revolving Pre-School Shakespeare/Music After School Program Alternative High School Community Events Health/Drug Awareness In Service Grants Block Grant Per Pupil Tech Education PL 94-142 PL 94-142 Math/Science Training PL 97-35 Chapter I PL 89-313 Other Grants Arts Council Grant Community Policing COPS Grant Violence Against Women Fke Education Trailer Fire TAG Grant LEPC Fire HMEP Grant Fire HAZMAT grant Health Title V grant 2,944.49 11,305.00 676.13 32,197.00 423.00 856,131.54 77,529.60 28,335.00 769.00 14,315.00 10,868.00 57,469.72 9,128.59 538,382.16 97,671.50 16,738.02 2,691.17 36,760.03 49,752.50 10,686.00 6,690.00 56,000.00 470,981.32 125,551.00 28,918.00 9,902.00 40,000.00 206,846.00 31,350.00 13,948.00 128,578.00 17,447.00 6,864.00 48,750.00 24,425.00 10,605.37 2,524.00 9,800.00 3,000.00 600.00 2,000.00 2,944.49 44,178.13 988,371.14 57,469.72 9,128.59 655,482.85 1,233,409.85 45,679,761.51 Council on Aging Expansion Library State Aid Police Dare grant Council on Aging Elder Affairs Wm Wharton Trust Grant Ogood Hill Grant Receipt Interest Earned-Grants Boat Ramp DH Sutton Highway Grant Osgood and Andover Int bi Andover Arts Council Revolving Funds Osgood Hill Council On Aging DPW recycling bins Youth Service Revolving Ambulance- Reserve from Fees Conservation Wetland Fees DPW Highway Damage Reimburse SCHOOL-Damage Reimbursements DONATIONS Conservation Trail Building Police-Community Policing Fire Educational Trailer Fire/Stevens Foundation Forest View Estates Health Dept Fees Council On Aging Fundraising Council on Aging Nutrition Program Council on Aging Education Fund Council on Aging Expansion Fund Senior Citizen Expansion Fund Council on Aging Spring Water Recreation Council Fourth of luly Youth Services-Youth Lacrosse Sewer Infiltration Mitigation TotaI Speci~Revenue Funds CAPITAL PROm~rs Bond Proceeds-GPR Phase 2 Bond Proceeds-Extend Sewers Bond Proceeds-Sutton Hill Tanks Bond Proceeds-Water Main Rehab Short Term payoff-Water Main Rehab Bond proceeds-New Elementary School Short Term payoff-New Elementary Sch Bond Proceeds-Osgood Hill 538,000.00 22,247.92 13,000.00 18,284.00 6,777.95 750.00 456.09 7,259.55 44,871.73 168.02 369,577.41 6,045.40 2,521.00 63,117.7l 24,000.00 35,502.00 4,990.52 231.34 328.44 3,000.00 103.05 3,000.00 6,000.00 35,781.06 11,776.92 1,300.00 335.00 13,656.92 33,773.00 700.00 500.00 3,521.00 16,505.00 34,496.00 5,840.52 469,250.00 54,909.48 800,000.00 25,000.00 1,930,000.00 70,000.00 4,625,000.00 707,628.24 52,755.39 441,261.52 24,000.00 35,502.00 4,990.52 231.34 164,776.39 3~20,038.10 lid Short Term payoff-Osgood Hill Bond proceeds-Middle School Project TRUST FUND REC£IPTS Contributions and donations Conservation Trust Fund Stabilization Fund Interest Income Law Enforcement Trust Total Trust Funds Total Other Funds Grand total Receipts Year Ending 1998 AGENCY FUNDS Meals Tax Fish Wildlife Sales/Meals Tax Osgood Tiffany/Hampstead Highway Dept Escrow Seized Fire outside Police outside detail Collector fees Kelley Planning Board Conservation Conserv bank interest Planning Bd reveiw fee Total Agency Funds 275,000.00 17,973,000.00 529.86 116.58 2,996.75 6,273.33 5,840.38 9,607.30 19,700.88 79.54 48,500.00 307,148.59 21,011.71 476,044.52 44,405.00 123.80 964,430.75 85,969.91 118,727.65 26,228,000.00 9,916.52 29,557,954.62 75,237,716.13 2,101,590.03 School Expenditures 1000 Administration 1000 School committee 1200 Superintendent 1400 Supt. support Total 1000 Series 2000 Instruction 2100 Supervision 2200 Principals 2300 Teaching 2400 Textbooks/technology 2500 Library 2600 Audio visual 2700 Guidance 2800 Phychological sew. Total 2000 Series 3000 Other Services 3100 Attendance 3200 Health 3300 Transportation 3400 Good service 3500 Athletics 3600 Student activities Total 3000 Series 4000 Operation & Maintenance 4100 Operations 4200 Maintenance 4210 Equipment repair Total 4000 Series 5000 Fixed Charges 5100 Employee benefits 5300 Portable classrooms 5310 Leased equipment Total 5000 Series 7000 Equipment 7300 New equipment 7400 Replacement equip Total 7000 Series Grant Total 1998 General Exp. 1998 Salaries 36,921.21 3,696.76 92,632.68 133,250.65 1,832.81 68,199.43 292,052.28 404,479.49 43,324.14 7,200.75 18,452.26 835,541.16 12,624.63 520,030.00 190~842.23 11,728.92 735,225.78 842,256.70 413,402.65 65,004.39 1,320,663.74 37,890.00 37,890.00 64,167.64 64,167.64 3,126,738.97 10,400.16 156,866.00 320,455.06 487,721.22 165,289.42 1,101,923.39 10,576,349.22 325,323.38 575,079.39 12,743,964.80 2,200.00 207,848.44 78,614.15 182,239.00 55,902.01 526,803.60 851,504.18 39,190.31 890,694.49 64,167.64 14,649,184.11 47,321.37 160,562.76 413,087.74 620,971.87 167,122.23 1,170,122.82 10,868,401.50 404,479.49 368,647.52 7,200.75 593,531.65 13,579,$05.96 2,200.00 220,473.07 520,030.00 78,614.15 373,081.23 67,630.93 1,262,029.38 1,693,760.88 452,592.96 65,004.39 2,211,358.23 37,890.00 37,8 o.0o 64,167.64 64,167.64 17,775,923.08 Special Education Expenditures 2000 Instructions 2100 Supervision 2300 Teaching 2400 Text/technology 2600 Audio visual 2700 Guidance 2800 Psych serv Total 2000 Series 3000 Other Services 3300 Transportation Total 3000 Series 4000 Operations & Maintenance 4210 Equipment repair Total 4000 Series 5000 Fixed Charges 5310 Leased equipment Total 5000 Series 7000 Fixed Assets 7300 New equipment Total 7000 Series 9000 Other Districts 9100 Tuitions 9400 Collabor. tuitions 9410 Special serv Total 9000 Series Grand Total 1998 Sped Exp 1998 Sped Salary 6,025.65 4,639.32 9,902.30 5,346.07 23,500.15 49,413.49 128,461.10 2,345,741.33 2,474,202.43 134,486.75 2,350,380.65 9,902.30 5.346.07 23,500.15 2,523,615.92 421,631.97 421,631.97 421,631.97 421,631.97 5,610.91 5,610.91 5,610.91 5,610.91 975.00 975.00 975.00 975.00 2,976.40 2,976.40 2,976.40 2,976.40 698,745.01 373,452.22 320,027.18 1,392,224.41 1,872,832.18 2,474,202.43 698,745.01 373,452.22 320,027.18 1,392,224.41 4,347,034.61 Grants-June 1,1 go?-June 30, 1 gg8 Grant Name & Code Bal. 711/97 Income Expenses Bal. 6~30/98 Health Protection 349-036-8 Smoking cessation 331-139-7 Drag free 331-041-8 Drag free 378-033-8 Safe schools 532-014-8 Elem.violence 641-005-8 Teen dating violence Curriculum Study 504-145-7 Frameworks 576-061-8 Early inter, literacy 580-015-8 Gifted & talented 393-019-8 Essential skills remedial 313-009-8 Emergency immigration Block Grant 302-149-7 Title VI 302-046-8 Title VI Technology Grant 603-060-7 Bond technology 606-107-8 Tech literacy chall 1 Eisenhower Grant 303-140-7 Teacher train math/sci 303-038-8 Teacher training 368-061-8 Palms st lea. Title 1 305-106-7 Title I distribution Dissemination Charge 305-016-8 Title 1 distribution Special Education 262-131-7 Sped early childh'd 262-036-8 SPed early childh'd 240-142-7 Sped 94-142 240-041-8 Sped 94-142 274-048-8 Sped curt frameworks Total 3,831.94 555.50 1,543.74 79,390:77 6,637.60 14,31136 -322.66 1,861.00 (650.00) 21,161.93 (9,254.00) 119,067.48 88,305.00 20~58.00 2,000.00 7,325.00 6,963.00 15,000.00 7,500.00 10,000.00 3,918.00 9,902.00 11,805.00 5,243.00 128,578.00 24,500.00 221,580.00 17,447.00 88,305.00 3,831.94 20~58.00 2,000.00 7,325.00 6,963.00 555.50 15,000.00 7,500.00 10,000.00 3,481.90 1,543.74 5,196.74 79,390.77 38,431.43 6,637.60 10,158.34 5,243.00 127,690.24 1,211.00 20,785.50 11,907.93 195,834.30 13,839.55 683,790.48 436.10 4,705.26 1,568.57 1,646.66 14,876.76 3,714.50 25,745.70 3,607.45 56,301.00 Revolving Accounts Athletics Community Schools School Insurance Preschool Gifts & Donations Alternative HS Totals 7/1/9~ Bal. Deposits Payments 115,514.24 37,320.03 6,810.67 101,057.26 480,931.39 331,107.63 2,533.18 37,499.51 49,628.00 63,103.03 10,876.39 22,853.80 19,326.42 700.00 56,000.00 57,204.92 268,180.58 646,733.22 477,552.67 Ret. Y/E Bal. Checks 1998 125.00 125.00 146,023.60 250,881.02 2,533.18 23,899.48 14,403.77 (504.92) 437,236.13 Enrollment on October 1 Grade 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 Pre-K Kindergarten 295 330 304 343 334 333 Pre-lst 27 31 1 354 337 367 385 364 327 2 354 370 390 369 327 312 3 381 390 365 330 327 309 4 384 368 340 327 317 309 5 379 349 325 329 313 271 Integrated Pre-School 70 72 71 70 56 60 Total Kind. & Elem. 2217 2216 2162 2153 2065 1952 6 355 333 336 307 270 290 7 325 345 310 279 277 244 8 356 314 285 280 247 257 Total Middle School 1036 992 931 866 794 791 9 259 231 240 207 213 218 10 243 231 210 225 202 220 11 225 207 226 200 220 198 12 204 210 198 223 199 193 Total HighScho~ 931 879 874 855 834 829 Total Enrollment 4184 4087 3967 3874 3693 3572 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- mitred 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. Annual Town Meeting-May 11,1 998 Summary of Actions Taken Article One Article Two Article Three Article Four Article Five Article Six Article Seven Report of Receipts and Expenditures as presented in the 1997 Annual Town Report accepted by Unanimous Vote. Compensation of Elected Officials accepted by Unanimous Vote. Report of Special Committees to Town Meeting - Master Plan Report ac- cepted by Unanimous Vote. Fiscal Year Budget transfers by the Director of Administration and Finance as presented in the Warrant accepted by Unanimous Vote. Adoption of the Establishment of a Water Enterprise Fund under the provi- sions of Chapter 44, Section 53F 1/2 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Adoption of the Establishment of a Sewer Enterprise Fund under the provi- sions of Chapter 44, Section 53F 1/2 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Water Enterprise Fund Appropriation for Fiscal Year 1999 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Eight Sewer Enterprise Fund Appropriation for Fiscal Year 1999 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Nine Article Ten Article Eleven Article Twelve Article Thirteen Article Fourteen Annual Appropriation Article for Fiscal Year 1999 as presented in the War- rant in the total amount as recommended by the Finance Committee in the sum of $42,792,210 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Capital Improvement Plan Appropriation for Fiscal Year 1999 as presented in the Warrant and read in the Motion to Town Meeting and as amended to include $87,500 added to Line Item 19 - Cyr Recreation Area Ballfields was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Authorization of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 - Highway Funds was accepted by Unanimous Vote. The establishment of a Reserve Fund in the amount of $75,000 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. The Authorization to Operate Osgood Hill Conference Center was accepted by Unanimous Vote. The Funding of the Arbitrators Decision fund the binding arbitration award rendered January 7, 1998 by the JLMC transferring $277,000 from Free Cash was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Fifteen Article Sixteen Article Seventeen Article Eighteen Article Nineteen Article Twenty Article Twenty-one Article Twenty-two Article Twenty-three Article Twenty-four Article Twenty-five Article Twenty-six Article Twenty-seven Article Twenty-eight Article Twenty-nine Article Thirty Acquisition of Land - Foster Farm - Foster Street authorizing the Board of Selectmen to borrow $1,850,000 under G.L. Chapter 44 Section 7 (3) and that $296,000 be appropriated due in Fiscal Year 1999 subject to an override of G.L.C. 59, Section 21C (Proposition 2-1/2) was passed by a two-third Vote /Declared by the Moderator. Sense of the Town Meeting - Solid Waste Incinerator stated that the Town Manager and the Board of Selectmen should actively pursue strategies lead- ing to the closure of the Wbeelabrator/MRI incinerator on Holt Road that will not cause significant economic harm or legal liability to the Town was passed by a Clear Majority Vote. Addition of Residual Waste Management Facility - Fee in Lieu of Taxes Bylaw - Chapter I01 Section 101-2 of the Town Code as presented on the Supple- mental sheet presented to Town Meeting was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Amendment to Town Code Section 17-8 regarding Water/Sewer bills was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Acceptance of Land at Wayne, Lexington, and Bunkerhill Streets as printed in the Warrant was accepted by a majority vote. Amendment of Town Code - Fire Prevention to define Chapter 106 - Fire Pre- vention was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Amend Town Code Chapter 106 to allow for the Non-Criminal Disposition of Violations was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Amend Town Code - Chapter 69 - Alarm Systems was accepted by Unani- mous Vote. Amend Town Code Chapter 109 Fire Lanes was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Amend Zoning Bylaw Section 4.2 - Phased Development was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Amend Zoning Bylaw Section 4.136(5) - Emergencies was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Amend Zoning Bylaw Section 7.7.1 - Contiguous Buildable Area was ac- cepted by Unanimous Vote. Amend Zoning Bylaw Section 8.3 - Site Plan Review was accepted by Unani- mous Vote. Amend Zoning Bylaw Section 2.27 - Building Heights was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Acquisition of Land - Renshaw Property as amended was accepted by a Clear Majority vote subject to an override of Proposition 2-1/2. Amend Zoning bylaw - Section 6.6D Signs & Outdoor Lighting was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Article Thirty-one Article Thirty-two Article Thirty-three Article Thirty-four Article Thirty-five Article Thirty-six Article Thirty-seven Article Thirty-eight Article Thirty-nine Article Forty Article Forty-one Article Forty-two Article Forty-three Article Forty-four Article Forty-five Article Forty-six Article Forty-seven Article Forty-eight Amend Zoning Bylaw - Section 6.6D - Signs was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Amend Zoning Bylaw - Section 10.4 Variance and Appeals was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Roadway Acceptances - Voted by Unanimous Vote to adopt the Layout Or- der and plans approved by the board of Selectmen for Sugarcane Lane Ex- tension Plan 41886E; Beechwood Drive, Plan No. 12902 and East Pasture Circle, Plan No. 12615. Appropriation of Police/Fire Complex Site & Design in the amount of $60,000 under General Laws Chapter 44, Section 7(22) was passed by a Two- Third Vote as Declared by the Moderator. Architectural Fees for High School design in the amount of $235,000 under General Laws Chapter 44, Section 7(22) was passed by a Two-Third Vote as Declared by the Moderator. Amend Zoning Bylaw by adding a new section 8.9 Wireless Service Facili- ties as amended was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Amend Zoning bylaw Section 2.65 - Special Permit Granting Authority for Wireless Facilities was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Amend Zoning Bylaw Section 8.3 - Site Plan Review - was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Amend Town Code ~ Chapter 178 - Wetlands Bylaw - was adopted as amended by a Vote of YES--133; NO 45. Escrow Account - Consultant Fees for the Conservation Commissions By law was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Revocation of Civil Service for Town's Custodians and Food Service Worker rifles was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Rezone of 110 Sutton Street - Petition of Robert Carberry and others was accepted by Unanimous Vote Rezone of Chickering Road from R-4 to Business 1 was accepted by Unani- mous Vote. Rezone - Parcel of Land located on Willow Street - Petition of Leonard Annaloro and Others was defeated- YES-- 50; NO--80. Rezone - Portion of Osgood Street from R1 to Business 2 - Petition of Joanne McCarthy and Others was Defeated - YES--13; NO--l12. Release of Interest in Certain Paper Streets as presented by the Board of Selectmen was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Abandon Ownership - Paper Streets - Petition of Joan Kulash and Others was Unanimously Voted to Take No Action. Amend Town Code Chapter 88 - Dogs to add Section 88-6 - Removal of Feces was passed by Majority Vote as amended. Special Town Meeting--October 1 g, 1998 Article One Article Two Article Three Article Four Article Five Article Six Article Seven Article Eight Article Nine The granting of a permanent sewer easement to Lucent technologies as recorded in the North Essex Registry of Deeds on Book 1147, Page 281 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. The vote to rescind unissued bond authorizations as authorized by Article 12, Item 14 of 1989 Annual Town Meeting in the amount of $152,210 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. The transfer from free cash to the stabilization fund in the amount of $250,000. A vote of No Action was passed unanimously. The amendments to adjust appropriations voted at the 1998 Annual Town Meet- ing was accepted by Unanimous Vote. Amendments to the Water Enterprise Fund Appropriation Article for Fiscal Year 1999 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. The exchange of easements dated August 14, 1985 and recorded at the North Essex Registry of Deeds as Plan No. 10036 by Bear Hill Development was ac- cepted by Unanimous Vote. The acceptance of Settlers Ridge Road as recorded in the North Essex Registry of Deeds as Plan No. 13007 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. The amendment of the appropriation of debt service due in Fiscal Year 1999 for the acquisition of land - Foster Farm on Foster Street from $296,000 to $40,138 was accepted by Unanimous Vote. The appropriation of $4,000,000 for the purpose of financing the construction of the West Side Sewer Project was accepted by Unanimous Vote. MELANSON HEATH ~ COMPANY, PC CEI~TIFTI!D PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS ~ ~ Trafalgar Square Na.~ltm=, NH o~o6~, t974 ~1 {60~) 88z. ~ ~ ~ ~ · F~ (6o~} 88z-g458 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT To the Board cf Setectm, en Town cf North Andcver, Massachusetts We have audited the ac==mpanying general purpose financial statements cf the Town of North Andover, Massachusetts as cf June 30, la.C8 and for the year then ended. These general i=urpcse financial statements are [he respcnsibilit,/cf the Town cf North Andover's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these general purpose financial statements based on cur audit. We conducted cur audit in accordance with generally acc-opted auditing standards. Those standards require that we ,clan and perform the audit ta obtain reasonable assuranc..= ai=¢ut whether the general purpose financial statements are free cf material misstatement. An audit includes examining, cna test basis, evidence sup- porting the amounts and disclosures in the general purpose financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the acc=unting princil::les used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall general purpose financial statement presentation. We believe that cur audit provides a reascnai:le basis for cur cpinion. %ne financial statements referred ta above dc not induce the General Fixed Asset G¢cup cf Accounts, as required by generally accepted accounting principles. The amount that should be recorded in the General Fixed Assets Acc.cunt Group has not been determined. In cur opinion, excspt for the effects cf the item described in the third paragraph, the general purpose financial statemer;ts referred to above present fairly, in ail material rescects, the financial position cf the Town af North Ar;dover, Massachusetts, as cf Jur~e 30, 1998 and the results cf its oper~.ticns for the year then ended in conformity with generally ac=opted accounting pdnclples. Nashua, Nez¢ Hampshire Ncvemher 9, l-C-c~, TOWN OF NORTH ANDOVER. MA$SACHUSE'IT$ Statement of Revenues and Other Sources, and Expenditures and Other Uses - Budget and A:ual - General Fund For the Year Ended June 30, 1998 Revenues and Other Sources: Property taxes Exc~se taxes Charges for se~ice interest penalties and nther Licenses, permits And fees Intergovernmental interest income Cepartmental and ather Transfers in Cther sources Total Revenues and Other Sources Expenditures and Other Uses: Genera/government Put~lic safety Education Public works Fixed expenses Intergovernmental Transfem out Other uses Total Expenditures and Other Uses Excess (deficgencT) of revenues and other sources over expenditures and other uses Budqet Actual Vadance FavoraDle (Unfavorable) $ 29,071,697 $ 29,071,697 $ 2,638,652 2.784.,037 14.5,385 6,389,968 5,684,4-t3 (705,525) 2.28,500 244358 16,458 955,500 988,113 30,613 5,340,478 5,297,314. (43,164) 683,520 341.968 (341,552) 1,016,606 1,033,939 17,333 12¢,000 (124,000) 277.000 277.000 . 46,725,921 4.5,721,469 (1,004,452} 4,377,824 4,316,591 61,233 5,490,812 5,450,089 40,723 21,155,371 ?.1,151,796 3,575 5,3~0,726 5,309,081 21,665 9,4.12,712 9,349,542 63,1T0 506,885 533,47T (28,592) 2,125 2,125 449,466 4~9,466 46.725321 46,582.147 163,774 (840,878) $ (840,678), See accompanying notes to financial statements. TOWN OF NORTH ANDOVER, MAS,SACHUSc'-rrs Statement of Revenues, Expenses and Changes in Retained Earnings/Fund Ealance - All Proprietary Fund Types and Similar Trust Funds For the Year Ended June 30, lgg8 Propd~ary F~dudary Fund Tyoes Fund Ty~ Intemal Service Non-expendable Fund TmstFund Revenues: Contributions $ 2.727,344 $ 2.497 Total Revenues 2.727,394 2,<:J97 E~enses: Personnel services Non personnel services - 48,2.67 Total Exl3enses 2.~6,2.84 48,.?.67 Net Income (45,2.70) Retained E.~mings/Fund Balance, beginning, as restated 115,722 Retained Earnings/Fund Ealance, enc~ing $ $ 70,452 31,110 (588,480'~ See accompanying n(~tes to financial statements. TOWN OF NORTH ANOOVER, MASSACHUSETTS Statement of (:;ash Flews Proprietary Fund Types and Similar Trust Funds For the Year E[nded June 30, 1998 Cash Flows From Operating AC, ivities: Operating income Adjustments to reconcile operating income to net cash provided by operating activities: Prior pedod adjustment (Increase) Decrease in c'-,rrent assets: Other receivable Other assets Increase (Decrease) in current liabilities: Other lialailifies Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Net increase (decrease) in cash ancl cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, July 1, 1997 Cash and Cash Investments, June 30, 1998 Reconciliation of Trust Cash: Total Trust and Agency Casi3 Less: Expendable Trust and Agency Css~ Total Non-expendable Tru~ Cash Proprietary Fund Ty~aes Internal Service Funct $ 31,110 (62O,O9O) (152,12.4) (239,400) 859,490 (121,014) $ (121, .014) Fiduciary Fun(~ TYee Non-expendable Tmst $ (45,270) (45.~70~ (45,270) 115.722 70.452 $ 4,138,926 (4.068.474) $ 70,452-- See accompanying notes to financial statements. Town of North Andover Notes to General Purpose Financial Statements 1. Sumrnarv of $l.qnificant Accounting Policies The accounting policies of the Town of North Andover (the Town) conform to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) as applicable to govern- mental units, except as indicated in Ncte 2. The following is a summary of the more significant, policies: A. Re~o~ina Entity The govemment is a municipal corporation governed by an elected Board of Sale.men. As required by generally accepted accounting principles, these financial statements present the government and applicable com- ponent units for which the government is considered to be financially accountable. In fiscal year 1998, it was determined that no entities met the required GAS8-14 criteria of component units. B. 8a$i$ cf ~resentafion - Fund Accountina For reporting purposes, the financial amivities af the Town of North Andover are accounted far through the use of several funds and account groups. Eac,~ fund is a separate accounting entity with self-balancing accounts. 'Fne following types of funds and account groups are used by the Town cf North Andovec. Governmental Fund Tyaes Govemmental 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 financisl 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 cf 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, Cacital Prelect Funds - Transactions related to resources obtained and used for the acquisition, construction, ar improvement of major capital facilities are acc=unted for in capital project funds. Such resources are derived principally from proceeds of general obligation bond issues and from Federal and State grants. Pro:rietary, Fund Ty~es. Proprietary funds are used to account for the Town's ongoing organi2.aticns and activities which are similar to those often found in the private sector. The measurement focus is upon determination of net income. The following is the Town's proprietary fund types: Internal Service Funds - To account for goods or services provided by one Town department or agency to other Town departments or agencies. 'Fne Town accounts for its self-insured health insurance fund as an internal service fund. Fiduciary Fund Tw:es Fiduciary funds are used to account for assets held by the Town in a trustee capacity. 'rne Town maintains the follcwing fiduciary fund types: Exaendebte Trust Funds - These funds are accounted for in essentially the same manner as governmental funds. Ncnexcendable 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. Agency, Funds - These funds are custodial in nature (assets equal liabili- ties) and do ncr involve measurement of results of operations. Account Grou~s Account groups are used to establish accounting control and accountabil- ity for the Town's general Iong-tem-~ obligations. The following account group is maintained by the Town. General Lonc-Term Debt Account Grcuo - This account group is used to account for alt long-term obligations of the Town. C. Basis of Accountine The basis of accounting used for each fund is as follows: Modified Accrual Basis (Governmental. Extendable Trust and Aoencv 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, cnly current assets and cur- rent 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 ace"ual 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 criteria 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 casts because these amounts are not expected ta be relieved within the current accounting period, are recorded when the related fund liability is incurred. Accrual Basis (Proorietary and Nonexpendable Funds~ All proprietary, and nonexpendable trust funds are accounted for on a flow of economic resources measurement focus. With this mea- surement focus, all assets and liabilities associated with the operation of these funds are included on the balance sheet.. Proprietary fund type operating statements present increases (e.g., revenues) and decreases (e.g., expenses) in net total assets. The accrual basis of accounting is used by proprietary and nonexpendable trust funds. Their revenues are recognized when they are eamed, and their expenses are recognized when they are incurred. The Town has elected to apply proprietary fund accounting principles applicable to the pdvate sector issued through November 30, 1989, unless those principles conflict with or contradict pronouncements of the Governmental Accounting Standards Board. D. Cash and Cash E~uivalents Cash balances from all funds, except these required to be segregated by law, are combined to form a consolidation cf 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 Tcwn maintains a cash and investment peel that is available for use by all funds. Each fund's pcrtion of this peel 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. For purpose of the statement of cash flows, the proprietary funds and nonexpendable trust funds consider investments with original maturities of three months er less to be cash equivalents. E. Investments State and Iccal statutes place certain limitations on the nature of deposits and investment available to the Town. Deposits in any financial institution may net 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 er agencies that have a matudty of Iess than one year from the date cf purchase and repurchase agreements guaranteed by such securities with maturity dates of no more than 90 days from the date of purchase. F. Prouerty Tax ~Jrnita#ons Legislation known as "Proposition 2 112" limits the amount af 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 (exc!uding new growth), unless an override or debt exemption is voted. The ac,ual fiscal year 1998 tax levy reflected an excess capacity of $1,769. G. Lonq-Term Obligations The government repcrts long-term debt of governmental funds at face value in the general long-term debt account group. Certain other govern- mental fund obligations nat expected to be financed with current available financial resources are also reported in the general Icng-term debt account group. Long-term debt and other obligations financed by proprietary funds are reported as liabilities in the appropriate funds. H. Accrued Emr~lovee Eenefifs 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 cf the ~;eneral long-term debt account group. I. Fund E~uify Reservations of fund balance represent amcunts that are not appropdable or are legally segregated for a specific purpose. J. Encumbrance Acc=untinc and Rep(~rtinq Encumbrance accounting is employed in ~;overnmental funds. Encum- brances (e.g., purchase orders, ccntra~s) outstanding at year end are reported as reservations of fund balances and do not constitute expendi- tures cr liabilities. K. Memorandum Only - Total Columns Total columns on the general purpose financial statements are captioned as "memorandum only" because they do net represent consolidated financial information and are presented only to facilitate financial analysis. The columns do not present information that reflects financial positi(3n, results of operations, or cash flows in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Interfund e{iminations have not been made in the aggregation (:f this data. L. Materfal Chances in Classifications The acccml;anying financial statements reflect, vadous changes in classification from the pdor year. Specifically, ail health insurance activity is presented in the Town's Internal Service Fund rather than the genersI fund. Departures from Generally Acceoted Accountin~ Principles The significant departures of the Town's financial statements from generally accepted accounting principles are as follows: · General fixed asset acquisitions are nat capitalized in a general fixed asset group cf acc. cunts. 3. Stewardshio. Compliance and Accountability, A. Eudcetarv Infcrmati(;n At the town meeting, the Finance Committee presents an operating and capital budget for the proposed expenditures af the fiscal year commenc- ing the following July 1. The budget, as enact, ed by the town meeting, establishes the legal level cf control and specifies that certain appropri- ations are tc be funded by particular revenues. The odginai budget is amended during the fiscal year at special town meetings as required by changing conditions. In cases cf extracrdinary cr unforeseen expenses, the Finance Committee is emp(~wered to transfer funds from the Reserve Fund (a contingent! appropriation) to s departmental appropriation. "Extraordinary' inctudes expenses which are not in the usual line, or are greet or exceptional. "Unforeseen" includes expenses which are not foreseen as cf 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 fcr an emergency and for the safety cf 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 mansgement control device dudng 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. B. Eudoetarv 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: 1998 annual appropriations 1998 supplemental appropriations Statutory County and State assessments Other uses lecjally required to be raised 45,572,943 277,000 506,885 369.093 Total Appropriation $ ,~6.725.921 C. Budeet/GAAP Reccnciliation The budgetary data for the general fund is based upon accc, unting prin- ciples that differ from generally accepted acccunting principles (GA,AP). Therefore, in addition to the GAAP basis financial statements, the results of operations <:f the general fund are presented in accordance with bud- getary acccunting principles ta provide a meaningful ccmparison with budgetary data. The follawing is a summary of adjustments made ta the actual revenues and other sources, and expenditures and other uses, to conform to the budgetary basis of accounting. General Fund Revenues/Expend[tums (GAAP basis) Other financJncj sources/uses (GAAP basis) Adjust tax revenue to acc-ual basis Reverse expenditures of prior year appropdaticn carryforwards Add end cf year appropriation carryfcrwards to expenditures Record raising cf pdor year appropriation deficits Recognize use bf other sources as funding source Budgetary basis Revenues and Other Financinq Sources $ 45,616,909 (172,4ao) 27T.000 $ 45,7~1,~9 Expenditures and Other ~nancing Uses $ 45,661,001 372,125 (312,783) 392,338 449,466 $46.~62.147 O. t=~ces$ of ~woenditure$ Over A~crcoria#ons The Town had expenditures exceeding apprcpriaticns as follows: General Fund: Intergovernmental 26,592 E. Deficiency of Revenues Under Estimate The Town had a deficient/of revenues compared to budget of. $1,004,452 as cutlined on page 4. The Town is required by Massachusetts General Laws to raise a deficit cf $ 840,678 (revenue shortfall net of expenditure surplus) with the fiscal year 1999 tax rate. F. Deficit Fund E¢uib/. The follcwing funds had deficits as cf June 30, 1998: Special Revenue Funds: Chapter 90 $(816,368) Capital Project Funds: Sewer i & I improvements Sewer I & I improvements Sewer extension North Main sewer Sewer I & I improvements Sewer I & I improvements Sewer I & I improvements Technical equipment Road improvements Sidewalks DPW equipment Recycle 'Fncmpscn school $(489,744) $(371,681) $(909,843) $(676,850) $(535,009) $(358,503) $(82,044.) $(205,600) $(102,7=0) $(43,684) $(211,393) $(125,000) $(2,843,765) 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 wi(h financial institutions at June 30, 19~c8 was $17,298,455. 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 OlF, cr collateralized with securities held by the Town in its name $ 523,400 Unc~llateralized 11,780,888 State investment pccl 5,845.o19 Total Rank Balance Taxes Receivable Real and personal property taxes are based cn 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 Town has an ultimate right to foreclose cn property for unpaid taxes. The following is a summary of the property tax calendar used for the 1998 tax levies: June, 1997: First quarterly real estate tax bills are malted to taxpayers. This bill is approximately equal to one quarter of the prior year's tax levy. August, 1997: 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, 1997: The sec,~nd quarter real estate tax bills are mailed to taxpayers. This bill is approximately equal to one quarter cf the prior year's tax levy. November, 1997: 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, 1997: 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, 1998: 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, 1998: The fourth quarter real estate and personal property tax bills are mailed to taxpayers. This is for the remainder of the tax levy. May, 1998: 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 tt~e delinquent taxpayer. Fourteen days after the demand notice has been sent, the tax collator may proceed to file a lien against the delinquent taxpayers' prcperty. Taxes receivable at June 30, 1998 consist of the following(in thousands): Real Estate 1998 $ 329 Prior 36 365 Personal Properly 35 Tax Liens 1,383 Deferred taxes 6 Total $1,7~9 Due From Other Governments This balance represents amounts oWed to the Town from the state for various highway projects. 7. Amount to be Provided b.v Commonwealth The balance in this account represents the estimated portion of bonds payable expected to be reimbursed through the Commonwealth's Massachusetts Water Pollution Abatement Trust and the School Building Assistance Bureau. Warrants Payable Warrants payable represent 1998 expenditures paid by Juty '~ 5, 1998 as pe~ mitted by law. 9. Accrued Liabilities Accrued liabilities in the general funds represent salaries earned by Town employees but unpaid as of year end. Acc,"ued liabilities in the internal service fund represent an estimate of incurred but unpaid health insurance claims. 10. Deferred Revenue The balance of the General Fund deferred revenues account is equal to the total of all June 30, 1998 receivable balances, except real and personal property taxes that are accrued for subsequent 80 day csllemians. The Town's statutory "allowance for abatements and exemptions" (overlay) account, with a balance of $ 408,397 has been reclassified to deferred revenue for reporting purposes. 11. 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. 12. Antic!potion Notes Payable The Town had the following nctes outstanding at June 30, 1998: Interest [2ate of [~ate of Balance at Rate Issue Maturity June 30. 1998 Bond anticipaticn 4.0% 9/97 9/98 $ 1,048,100 Bond anticipatJcn 4.0% Total 10.558.100 (1) These bond anti,",¢ation notes were permanently financed in September, 1998 as described in note 17. 13. Other Liabilities This balance consists primarily of various payroll deductions. 14. Long-Term Debt A. Genera/Oblidat/on Bonds The Town issues general obligation bonds to provide funds far the acquisition and construction of major capital facilities. Payment is not limited to a pa~icular 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, General purpose, fiscal General purpose, fiscal General purpose, fiscal General purpose, fiscal General purpose, fiscal General purpose, fiscal General purpose, fiscal Interest Maturity Balance Rate Oate June 30. 1998 ~ear 1989 6.20 - 7.48% 11101/12 $1,140,000 ,ear 1991 5.50 - 7. 112% 1 lj01/12 2,400,000 ,ear 1993 6.20 - 7.40% 11/01112 1,625,000 ,ear 1995 4.60 - 6.80% 6115/15 3,920,000 ,ear 1996 4.40 - 5.20% 9115111 6,505,000 ,ear 1997 6.00 - 5.50% 1/15/16 11,670,000 ,ear 1998 4.30 - 6.0(}% 1/15/13 4,625,000 'ear 1998 4.25 - 5.38% 1115/18 24,548,0(20 Massac.husetts Water P~lluticn Abatement Trust variable 2/01/15 5.169.948 (1) The Town expects to receive re~mt~ur~ement of approximately $ EO0, OOO from the Massac,~usetts Water Pollute'on Abatement Trust. The Town expec;$ Co receive reimbursement of a~proxima~eiy $ 'I 8. OGO, GGQ from tl~e Massachusetts $CohOCl Eu~lding A$.cJstanca Bureau. (1) B. Future Debt Service The annual principal and interest payments to r~tire all General obligation long-[erin debt outstanding as cf June ,30, 1 ,c~8 are as follows: 1999 20~0 2001 a~er Pdnci~al Interest Total 3,210,201 $ 2,939,039 $ 8,149,240 3,271,064 2,752,409 8,023,473 3,385,195 2,566,897 5,931,892 3,119,515 2,386,081 5,505,696 3,274,345 2,218,573 5,492,918 42.362.528 15.177.813 57.5~0.341 $~ $ 28.~40.8~2 $ 86.6z3.ECO C. Bond Authorizations Long-term debt authorizations which have not been issued as long term bonds or rescinded as cf June 30, 1998 are as follows: Water system DPW equipment DFW mad improvement DPW recycle truck Replace engine 3 rescue Technology equipment Architectural design DPW Rcrf repairs Amount 152,210 115,000 125,000 390,000 205,600 270,000 75,000 (c~ntinued) (ccntinued) Builciing improvements Variable freq. pump ddve Raw water wet well access Thompson Sc,hcol Youth Center Kettredge Sc,heel - Phase 3 Underground storage tanks Sidewalk consU'uc*Jen Sewer improvements Ill Phase 3B sewer No. Main sewer Sewer I.I. Sewer GPR Phase 2 Lake eudet control Fcster farm Water main rahab Pta¥ing fie{ds Water main rahab West side trunk relief sewer Osgocd hill rccf& gutter repairs Sewer GPR Phase 3c Sewer improvements I/I Public safety complex design Architectural fees -schccls Sewer GPR Phase 3a 15,000 41,000 10,000 8,400,00C 975,000 256,000 223,000 200,000 1,535,000 1,500,000 700,000 500,000 429,882 30,000 1,850,000 650,000 337,500 750,00C 365,000 95,000 1,500,000 .800,000 80,000 '235,000 51.341 Total $ ~ O. Le¢al Debt Marcin The Town is subject to the General Laws of the Commonwealth cf Massa- chusetts which limits the amcunt of bcnded debt the Town may have out- standing to 5 percent of the valuation of taxable property as last equalized by the Commonwealth's Department cf Revenue. The following is a com- putation of the legal debt margin as of June 30, 1998 (in thousands of dollars): Equalized valuation - January 1, 1997 Debt limit - 5% cf equalized valuation Total debt outstanding Less: debt exempt from limit Authorized, unissued Legal Debt Margin $1.948.938 $ 97,447 58,603 (58,603) ¢2.654) $16,19Q E. Chan~es in General Lonq-Term Liabilities During the year ended June 30, 1998, the following changes occurred in liabilities reported in the general long-term debt account group (in thousands): Accrued employee benefits General obli(~ation debt Totals Balance july 1, 1997 Additions Fieductions $ 353 $ 23 $ . 35.232 25,958 2.587 $ ~5.585 $ 25.981 $ 2.587 Balance June 30.1998 $ 376 58603 $ 58.979 15. Reserves and Desiqnations of Fund Ecuity, 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 segregaticns, have also been established to indicate tenta- tive plans far future financial utilization. The Town reported the following types of reserves and designations at June 30, 19~c8: Reserved for Encumbrances - An account used to segregate that portion cf fund balance committed for expenditure of financial resources upon vendor performance. Reserved for Endowments - Represents the principal cf the nonexpendable trust fund investments. T"ne balance cannot be spent for any purpose; how- ever, it may be invested and the earnings may be spent. Unreserved - Desi(~nated - represents management's tentative plans to utilize fund balance for water and sewer rate stabilization. 16. General Fund Undesignated Fund Balance, The undesignated general fund balance reported cn the balance sheet is stated in acccrCance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), which differs in certain respects from the Massachusetts Uniform Municipal Accounting System (UMAS). The following paragraphs summarize the majcr 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 actual property tax abatements and exemptions over the provision for abatements and exemp- tions (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 ~eneral fund undesignated fund balance: GAAP basis balance $ 504,333 Tax refund estimate 93,578 Revenue deficit 840.678 Statutory (UMAS) Balance $1,438.589 17. Subsequent Events Permanent Debt In August, 1998, the Town bcrrowed additional bond anticipation notes of $ 2,535,000 that matured in September, 1998. In September, 1998, the Town permanently bcnded $13,175,000 cf the bcnd anticipation notes outstanding as cf June 30, 1998, notes issued in August, and new debt. In September, the Town Also paid down certain anticipation notes with General fund appropriations. 18, Commitments and Contingencies Outstandin.q 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 cf such claims would not materially affect, its financial statements taken 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 d/sallowed ctaims, including amounts already collected, may constitute a liability of the applicable funds. The smount of expenditures which may be disallowed by the grantor cannot be determined at this time, although the Town expects such ~-mounts, 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 Tcwn 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 cf the bonds (net cf 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. 19. P,ost-Refirement Health Care and Life Insurance Benefits The Town's ample.yea contracts provide for health care and life insuranca benefits to retirees, their dependent, or their survivors. These benefits are provided through the Town's group plans. The cost cf 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 c~st of benefits for retirees, their dependents, or their survivors for the year ended June 30, 1998 was ncr available. 20. Pension Plan %ne Town follcws the provisions of GASB Statement No. 27, Accounting for Pensions for State and Local Government Employees, with respect to the employees' retirement funds. A. Ffan Desc.'fction The Town contributes to the Essex County Retirement System (the "System"), a cost-sharing multiple-employer, defined benefit pension plan administered by a county retirement board. The System provides retirement, disability and death benefits to ptan members and bene- ficiaries. Chapter 32 of the Massachusetts General Laws assigns the System the authcrity to establish and amend benefit provisions of the plan, and crant, cost--of-living increases, to the State legislature. The System issues a. publicly available financial report which can be obtained through the Essex County Retirement System at 36 Federal Street, Salem, Massachusetts, 01970. B. Funding Policy Plan members are required to contribute to the System at rates ranging from 5% to 11% cf annual covered compensation. The Town is required to pay into the System, its share of the remaining systemwide actuadally determined contribution plus administration costs which are apportioned among the employers based on active covered payroll. The contributions cf plan members and the Town are governed by Chapter 32 of the Massachusetts General Laws. The Town's contributions to the System far the years ended June 30, 1998, 1997 ~nd 1996 were $1,352,2.55, $1,182,792 and $1,121,77'7, respectively, which were equal to its annual required contributions for each cf these years. 21. Self Insurance The Town self insures against claims for employee I~ealth coverage. Annual estimated requirements for c~aims are provided in the Town's annual opera- ting budget. 'Fne Town ~ntraCs with an insurance carrier for excess liability coverage and an insurance ccnsultant 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 roi=resents an estimate of claims incurred but unpaid at year end, based on past historical costs and ctaims paid subse- quent to year end. T'nis 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, lS98 are as f~llc'ws: Claims liability, July 1, 1997 $ 871,890 Claims incurred / recognized in fiscal year 1998 2,692,284 Claims paid in fiscal year 1998 (2.704.684) Claims liability, June 30, 1998 22. Risk Mana,qement The government is exposed to various risks of loss related to torts; theft of, damacje to and destruction of assets; errors and omissions; and natural disasters for which the government carries commercial insurance. There were no significant reductions in insurance coverage from the previous year and have been no materfaJ settlements in excess cf coverage in any of the past three fiscal years. 23. Be,qinnin9 Fund Balance Restatement The beginning (July 1, 1997) fund balances cf the Town have been restated as follows: Internal Generel Se~ice Fund Fund As previously rel:crted $1,501,85,4 $ Reclassify health insurance to a sepsrate fund 8£0.090 (620.090) As restated $ 2.121 T~4 $ (620. Index North Andover Service Listings Our Town Town Offices Town Officers and Committees Officials and Term Expiration Dates General Government Board of Selectmen and Town Manager Finance Committee Division of Finance and Administration Assessors Office Town Accountant Town Treasurer-Tax Collector Town Clerk Management Information Systems Division of Public Works Public Works Division of Community Services Affirmative Action Program Commission on Disability Issues Council for the Arts Housing Authority 10 13 School Department School Committee Superintendent of Schools 16 18 Hnanclal Reports 21 Fiscal Year 1998 Adopted Budgets 24 and Expenditures 25 General Fund Revenue 55 62 64 66 67 70 72 99 103 Division of Community Development and Services Community Development Office Animal Inspector Board of Appeals Board of Health Building Department Conservation Department and Commission Council on Aging Historical Commission Planning Department and Board Recreation Department Stevens Memorial Library Stevens Memorial Library Trustees Veterans' Services Youth Services 26 27 28 29 30 31 33 35 36 38 39 41 44 45 Financial Report--School Department School Expenditures 108 Special Education Expenditures 109 Grants 110 Revolving Accounts 111 Enrollment on October 1 112 Town MeeUngs and Elections Town Meeting--May ll, 1998 113 Special Town Meeting--October 19, 1998 116 Financial Appendix Independent Auditors Report Division of Public Safety North Andover Emergency Management Agency Fire Department Police Department 48 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 ................................................................................... 683-1101 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 Departmem - 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 ................................................................................... 688-9579 Superintendent's Office .......................................................................... 794-1503 Atkinson School ..................................................................................... 794-0124 ................................................................................... 794-1677 ...................................................................................... 794-1990 School ............................................................................................ 794~1711 .......... 794-1688 SchooI ........................................................................................ 794-1870 725-3673 794-1545 and Measures ..................................................................... 686-2638 .................... 688-9510 ......... 688-9560 ...... 688-9501 ..................................................................... 688-9510 ................................................ 685-1568 ................... 688-9550 ................... 688-9525 ................................. 682-9000