Town of Dartmouth 2007 Annual Town Report

Town of Dartmouth

2007 Annual

Town Report

Table of Contents

General Information 4 Directory of Public Officials 5 Directory of Town Officers 6

FINANCIAL AND ACCOUNTANT REPORTS

Town Accountant 8 Board of Assessors 29 Town Collector 31

PUBLIC SAFETY AND PROTECTION

Building Department 32 Police Department 35 Traffic Division/Crime Prevention 47 K-9 Division 42 Underwater Recovery Unit 44 Investigative Division / ID 44 Sealer of Weights and Measures 48 Emergency Management Agency 48

PUBLIC WORKS AND SERVICES

Department of Public Works 50 Water Pollution Control 58 Engineering Division 53 Highway and Sanitation Division 54 Water Division 59

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

Planning Board 63 Southeastern Regional Planning & Economic Development District 67 Greater New Bedford Regional Refuse Management District 69 Board of Appeals 70 Historical Commission 72 Community Preservation Committee 73 Cemetery Commission 75

DARTMOUTH PUBLIC LIBRARIES 76

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Financial Statements 79 Superintendent’s Annual Report 91 Dartmouth Community Television 145 Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School 148

HUMAN SERVICES

Board of Health 186 Counsel on Aging 188 Housing Authority 191 Veterans’ Services 192 Youth Commission 193 Community Nurse and Hospice Care 196 Legal Department 197 Grants and Human Resources 198

PARKS, NATURAL RESOURCES & RECREATION

Bristol County Mosquito Control Board 100 Conservation Commission 202 Natural Resources Department 204 Dartmouth Harbormaster Waterway Management Department 205 Soil Conservation Board 207 Park Department 208 Recreation Department 209

ANIMAL CONTROL 211

DEVELOPMENT AND IMPROVEMENT COMMISSIONS

Industrial Development Commission 213 Capital Improvement Planning Committee 214 Personnel Board 220

TOWN CLERK

Vital Statistics 223

ELECTIONS Annual Town Election, April 3, 2007 224 Special Town Election, July 31, 2007

TOWN MEETINGS Spring Annual Town Meeting, June 5, 2007 226 Fall Annual Town Meeting, October 16, 2007

GENERAL INFORMATION

Town Hall Office Building Hours – Monday through Friday – 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.

Select Board – Meetings held every other Monday (Mon. holidays excluded). 508-910-1813 Conservation Commission – Meeting first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 P.M. 508-910-1822 School Committee – First and third Monday of each month, 7:00 P.M. 508-997-3391 Board of Public Works - First and third Tuesday of each month as scheduled. 508-999-0740 Board of Health - Meetings held the first and third Wednesday of each month, 7:45 A.M. 508-910-1804

Planning Board – Meetings each Monday, 7:00 P.M. (Monday holidays excluded) 508-910-1816 Police Department – Open 24 hours a day Telephone Routine Business 508-910-1734 Ambulance and Emergencies 911

Those Officers not maintaining regular office hours in the Town Office Building may be reached as follows:

Sealer of Weight & Measures - Theodore Machado 508-997-4460

Housing Authority – Celia Witherell, Executive Administrator 508-994-1424 2 Anderson Way, Dartmouth

Industrial Development Commission – Richard Walder, Vice-Chairman 15 Beverly Street, Dartmouth 508-999-0752

Soil Board – Diane Gilbert 508-993-1216

Fence Viewer – Joel Reed (Interim) 508-910-1825

DARTMOUTH PUBLIC LIBRARIES GENERAL INFORMATION

Southworth Library – 732 Dartmouth St. is open Monday – Thursday 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Friday and Saturday 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.

4 Telephone 999-0726; Fax 508-992-9914 North Dartmouth Library – Closed Temporarily

DIRECTORY OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

U.S. Representative, Fourth District Barney Frank U.S. Senator Edward M. Kennedy U.S. Senator John F. Kerry

STATE GOVERNMENT Governor Deval Patrick Lieutenant Governor Timothy P. Murray Secretary of the Commonwealth William F. Galvin Auditor of the Commonwealth A. Joseph DeNucci Treasurer and Receiver General Timothy Cahill Attorney General Martha Coakley Senator, Second Bristol District Mark C. Montigny Representative, Ninth Bristol District John F. Quinn

BRISTOL COUNTY GOVERNMENT Commissioners Christopher Saunders Maria F. Lopes Arthur R. Machado

Sheriff Thomas M. Hodgson Register of Deeds (Southern District) J. Mark Treadup Treasurer Patrick Harrington Clerk of Courts Marc J. Santos Register Of Probate and Insolvency Robert E. Peck District Attorney C. Samuel Sutter

DIRECTORY OF TOWN OFFICERS

Steven C. Sharek Moderator

ADMINISTRATIVE SELECT BO ARD

Kathleen Horan McLean, Chairperson Term expires 2008 Robert W. Carney, Vice Chairperson Term expires 2009 Diane Gilbert Term expires 2009 Nathalie L. Dias Term expires 2010 Joseph Michaud Term expires 2010 Michael J. Gagné Executive Administrator Jean Delahunt Administrative Licensing Aide Pam Simmons Part-time Floater

OFFICERS AND STAFF APPOINTED BY THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN

Anthony Savastano Town Counsel David Prentiss Assistant Town Counsel Linda Torres Principal Clerk Doris J. Copley Paralegal/ Grant Program Manager/ Human Resource Coordinator

TOWN HALL AND OFFICE BUILDING

Manuel R. Morro Head Custodian Robert Keith Custodian Robert Mayo Custodian

OFFICE OF BUDGET & FINANCE / TREASURER

Edward F. Iacaponi Director of Budget/ Finance Finance Treasurer Cheryl Abrantes Assistant Treasurer Michael J. Courville Information Systems Manager Bryan Britton Administrative Clerk/Computer Coordinator Randall Kay Administrative Clerk

FINANCE COMMITTEE Term expires ATM of

Peter Friedman, Chairman 2010 Greg Lynam, Vice-Chair 2008 David Ferreira 2010 Larry Fox 2009 Melissa Haskell 2009 Francis Pettengill 2009 Steward Washburn 2008 George Jacobs 2010 Shannon Jenkins 2009 Cheryl Abrantes Secretary

HEALTH INSURANCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Randall Kay DTEA Representative Edward F. Iacaponi Representative Melissa Gell School Department Representative Ronald Richard Representative - DPW Nathalie Dias Representative of Retirees Richard Medeiros Representative of Retirees George Perry Police Representative Christopher Michaud DTEA Representative Cheryl Broughton School/Cafeteria Craig Souza DPW Representative

SISTER CITY DELEGATION COMMITTEE

Edmund Tavares Co-Chairperson Albert Porter Co-Chairperson Joseph Toomey Member Gil Borges Member Cecilia Denwood Member Peggy Cabral Member Nathalie Dias Member Manuel Branco Member Mary Creed Member

TOWN ACCOUNTANT REPORT

Claire L. Karvonen Town Accountant Donna L. Fernandes Asst. Town Accountant Susan Dorschied Administrative Clerk

Herewith is the annual report of the Town of Dartmouth, exemplifying the financial condition of the Town as of June 30, 2007. This report includes the following:

Reconciliation of the Treasurer’s Cash

Analysis of Town Debt and Interest

Analysis of Appropriation Accounts

Revenue Received - All Funds

Report of Trust Funds

The accounting procedures followed by the Town of Dartmouth are established by the Commonwealth which oversees the financial operations of the Town and other Massachusetts municipalities to maintain compliance with the applicable requirements of general and special law.

In my opinion, the attached fairly reflect the financial condition of the Town of Dartmouth and the results of operations for the year ending June 30, 2007.

Claire L. Karvonen Town Accountant

8 RECONCILIATION OF TREASURER'S CASH AS OF JUNE 30, 2007

Cash and checks in office and Collector's Lock Box 473,086.79

Checking Account: Fleet 0.00

Bank Accounts-Interest Bearing: Mellon Financial 88,807.65 Slades Ferry 123,840.32 MMDT 11,722.14 Rockland Trust 86,368.97 Bank of America 4,679,531.45 Bank Five 5,024,243.41 Citizens Bank 8,796,529.40 Webster Bank 1,451,827.11 Eastern Bank 565,593.96 Bristol County Savings Bank 94,271.07 Uni-Bank 647,391.33

Total Bank Account-Interest Bearing 21,570,126.81

Investments: Certificate of Deposits 502,047.10 Trust Funds 708,870.17

TOTAL OF ALL CASH AND INVESTMENTS 23,254,130.87

I hereby certify that the foregoing schedule, setting forth the total cash in the custody of the Treasurer, is in agreement with the general ledger controls in my department.

Claire L. Karvonen Town Accountant

9 10 11

23 24 25 26 27

28 29

TOWN COLLECTOR

Deborah L. Piva Town Collector Joan Mitchell Asst. Town Collector Michelle Souza Head Cashier Elaine Lancaster Principal Clerk Utility Billing Sheila Sabourin Principal Clerk Carolyn Sue Oliveira Principal Clerk Utility Billing Lisa Raposa Cashier Melissa Jerome Cashier

The year 2007 in the Collector’s Office was another very productive year. As in the past, we continue to have an exceptional collection rate. This is in part due to the different payment options we offer the Taxpayer such as credit cards, we accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover; there is a 2% convenience charge for this service. The online payment system cost less then a postage stamp and we encourage continued use of this payment method by registering with www.mcc.net and following the process, which is easy and self-explanatory.

The online parking ticket system with ParkTech2000 is working very efficiently with accountability for all tickets collected and voided. The figures for 2007 totaling $47,040.00 was collected, with $40,180.00 in actual tickets collected, $6,860.00 in fines collected, and the number of tickets disposed of was 896.

The continued effort of the Town’s Deputy Collector is apparent by an analysis of the report from January to December of 2007. The report reflects a total of 2,542 delinquents accounts paid in full, which consist of Motor Vehicle and Boat Excise for a collection amount of $261,458.41, of which $217,156.82 represents all tax, $17,186.59 interest, $12,755.00 demand fees and $14,360.00 Registry of Motor vehicle fees. We encourage continued use of the Silver Slot Security Receptacle located beside the mailbox outside of Town Hall.

The Collector’s Office will continue to operate in a professional manner with the emphasis on security and safety of public funds and continue with enhancements and innovation that are cost saving and efficient in the operation of the office.

Dartmouth Building Department

Inspectors

Joel S. Reed Director of Inspectional Services, C.B.O. & Fence Viewer David W. Mattos Building Inspector & Zoning Enforcement Officer David Brunette Part-time, Assistant Building Inspector William R. Plamondon Part-time, Inspector of Wires David Gonsalves Alternate Inspector of Wires Donald Sweet Alternate Inspector of Wires Edward Viveiros Alternate Inspector of Wires Scott Livesley Alternate Inspector of Wires Edmund A. Brown Part-time, Plumbing & Gas Inspector Gary E. Lavalette Alternate Plumbing & Gas Inspector

Clerical Beverly A. Sylvia Permit Facilitator Suzanne C. Gonsalves Administrative Clerk

The Building Department reviews plans, applications and issues permits for all new construction, additions, alterations and repairs. We also do site inspections and issue Certificates of Occupancy per 780 CMR Massachusetts State Building Code and 521 CMR Architectural Access Code. The Director of Inspectional Services oversees Buildin g , Zoning Enforcement, Electrical, Plumbing and Gas Departments. The Director is also the Fence Viewer and communicates with the three Fire Districts on a weekly basis. The Zoning Enforcement Officer enforces the zoning by-laws and some general by-laws.

January 2007 through December 2007 Building Statistics

# of Permits Type of Permit Estimated Value

45 New One-Family Dwellings $16,488,601.00 1 New Building (Apartment Building 24 units 1,065,000.00 2 Condo Unit (Single-Family) 300,000.00 6 Condo Unit (Two-Family) 900,000.00 1 Condo Unit (8 Units) 560,000.00

1 New Building (4- Studio Apartments) 150,000.00

327 Additions & Alterations (Residential) 11,991,921.00 78 Additions & Alterations (Commercial) 1,043,976.00 1 Addition/Alteration (Non-Residential) 18,000.00 1 Foundation Only (Residential) 12,000.00 4 Foundations Only (Commercial) 497,000.00 1 Foundation Only (Non-Residential) 95,000.00 1 Accessory Building 68,500.00

New Building (Zapp Precision Strip Inc.) 165,000.00 New Building ( Elite A u to) 55,000.0 0 New Building (Retail P laza) 640,000.00 New Building (D .P.W . Pump Station I) 146,000.00 New Building (D.P.W. Pump Station II) 146,000.00 New Building (S teel F ra me-H awthorn Medical) 520,000.00 New Building (Hawthorn Medical) 4,855,000.00 New Building (85 Faunce Corner Mall Road - Retail Plaza) 1,200,000.00 New Building (Pillar LLC) 1,200,000.00 New Building (2-Story Office Building) 1,200,000.00 Boat House/Storage Building 195,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Olive Garden) 89,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Hawthorn Medical) 70,000.00 Addition/Alteration (365 Faunce Corner Road) 199,925.00 Addition/Alteration (Dartmouth Marketplace) 85,000.00 Addition/Alteration (TGI Friday’s) 108,000.00 Addition/Alteration (D’Angelos) 73,500.00 Addition/Alteration (Healthy Grille) 217,854.00 Addition/Alteration (South Coast Hospital Group) 79,925.00 Addition/Alteration (Dr. David Sullivan) 53,425.00 Addition/Alteration (DYAA) 95,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Black & Decker) 50,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Dick’s Sporting Goods) 86,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Avenue) 257,895.00 Addition/Alteration (Wal-Mart) 103,000.00 Addition/Alteration (South Coast Hospital Group) 75,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Shield MRI) 373,500.00 Addition/Alteration (Lighting Care Co., Inc) 60,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Retail Space) 150,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Acushnet Co.) 187,000.00 Addition/Alteration (New Bedford M e dical Associates) 60,000.00 Addition/Alteration (The Homeport) 75,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Sovereign Bank ) 55,000.00 Addition/Alteration (So. Eastern MA Dialys is Cente r #1320 125,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Dart mouth D e rmatology) 60,000.00 Addition/Alteration (634 State Road) 55,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Adamowski & Adamowski) 50,000.00

33 Addition/Alteration (Pearle Vision) 99,895.00 Addition/Alteration (Pinnacle Health & Fitn es s) 50,000.00 Addition /Alteration (Aquapoint Inc.) 71,025.00 Addition/Alteration (The Homeport) 55,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Symphony Shop ) 125,000.00 Addition/Alteration (Two-Condo Un its ) 260,000.00

1 Parking Lot 265,000.00

64 Pools (42 above-ground, 22 in-ground) 635,306.00 1 Barn 22,000.00 14 Garages 478,450.00 24 Sheds/Poolhouses 181,250.00 13 Demolitions 247,100.00 76 Replacement Windows/Doors 782,693.00 53 Woodstoves/Pelletstoves 112,666.00 75 Tenants/New/Change/Temporary 13,670.00 4 Temporary Trailers 16,150.00

3 Wind Turbines 80,000.00

4 Antennas 70,000.00 103 Signs/Temporary Signs/Banners 234,234.00 40 Home Occupations 2,455.00 235 Re-roofs/Sidings 2,251,933.00 38 Temporary Tents 78,028.00 2 Pavilions 25,000.00

TOTAL ESTIMATED VALUE OF CONST R UCTI O N 52,562,877.00

Department R evenue

Type of Permits Value Building $323,083.00 Electrical 98,572.50

Plumbing & Gas 88,878.50 Miscellaneous 10,982.00 Total Revenue: $521,516.00

POLICE DEPA R TMENT

To say that this has been a challenging year for the Town of Dartmouth is an understatement. Severe shortfalls in our overall Town revenues and no new identifiable sources of revenue have forced each department within Town to cut their budgets and eliminate or lay off pe rs onnel , l eavin g vacant position s unfi ll ed and key positions eliminated in the process. There doesn ’t app e ar to be any help this year as Town finances are once again projected to be in the red.

For many years now, your Police Department has received level funding or has been severely cut from our fis c al bud g et requ e sts. This was the case last year when close to $400,000 was cut fr o m the o verall P ublic Safety budget through lay offs and unfilled positions. Our medical expenses, vehicle repair, and utility cost continue to skyrocket. Our fuel expenses as well as other equipme nt maintenance agreements c ontinue to rise. We have had to request significant reserve transf er s just to pay some of our contractual obligations during the past fis ca l year .

The Town of Dartmouth as well as your Police Department faces serious and growing problems. I do not have to remind you of the serious crimes, which we read about happening in our larger cites, to the east and west of ou r borders. T hose crimes are consistently crossing over into our Town and a re tak in g place here in Dartmouth, evident with a recent drive-by shootin g , incre a sed dr ug and ga ng activity; as well as increased calls for police services. WE m ust act NOW to ensu re that t h ese cri minal elements do not become entrenched within ou r border s . WE collective ly MU ST set our priorities regarding Public Safety to ensur e that th e safety we have come to enjoy is not jeopardized.

We as a Town need collectively and uniformly to establish a commitment to Public Safety and to start building our manpower to backfill not only our open positions but our projected vacancies due to pending retirements within our r anks. We have canniba l ized o ur speci a list po sitions including a Student Resource Officer, Domestic Violence Officer, D.A.R.E. Officer, Crime Prevention Officer and two entry-level Police Officer positions just to maintain enough officers on the streets. We have also had to lay off four traffic supervi so rs, a part tim e d ispa tcher, an d an Administrative Secretary due to recent budget cut requirements.

The National Ratio of Officers to Population is 2.4 officers per 1000 population. This would equate to the Town of Dartmouth at a residential average of 33,000 x 2.4 officers = 79 Full Time Officers. Currently we have 58 officers within our ranks. Our largest complement of officers for our departmen t w as 64 office rs b a ck in 20 03!

Hiring a Police O ffice r is not like hiring personnel in the pr iv ate sector, there are significant time constraints due to extensive background checks, selection process, and required training involved. Please be reminded that it takes a minimum of nine months

35 before an entry-level patrol officer has completed all of the necessary and mandated training and is ready to assume duties on their own.

The Dartmouth Police will also be facing further depletions in upper command staff within the next two years. The Operations Captain will be retiring this fiscal year. The Executive Officer Captain, second in command of the police department is also eligible to retire this fiscal year. In less than two and a half years the Town will be searching for a new Chief of Police to command the Police Department and a senior Lieutenant will also be retiring. These critical command positions will have to be backfilled from our present structure of first line command positions. Those positions that backfilled as a result of first line command promotions will now have to be backfilled from th e patrol complement, further depleting our manpower availability to patrol the roads.

We continue to answer and respond to more police calls for service with fewer personnel adding additional tasks and assignments to an already overburdened and short- staffed workforce. Our arrest statistics continue to climb along with of felony incidents and calls for service. In short, we are living on borrowed time! The time to act is NOW!

Remember always that this is YOUR police department and that public safety is EVERYONE’S job. It needs your valuable information, input, concerns and above all your continued support. Your police department continues to be the model of professionalism and remains dedicated to serving YOU!

Sincerely, Chief Mark Pacheco Chief Mark Pacheco

36 Operations Division

The Operations Division of the Dartmouth Police Department is responsible for conducting all “tactical” functions within our agency. That is not to confuse that term “tactical” with specific connotations of “Tactical Teams” or other specialized units, but the more generalized definition which includes all day to day police functions including law enforcement, crime prevention and investigation, and public service. In short, Operations includes all functions not considered administrative. We are “the boots on the ground”. During the fiscally trying times of 2007, the Dartmouth Police Operations Division has strived to utilize our available resources in the most efficient manner possible. The Patrol Division, under the direction of Lieutenant Ken Cotta and Lieutenant Gary Soares, has stepped up traffic enforcement activity through the use of directed patrols. Increased traffic enforcement, the mandate of not one, but two separate community surveys, results in a safer environment for our drivers and pedestrians, with the additional benefit of increasing the detection of alcohol and drug violations as well as warrant apprehensions. New programs were established to better utilize our motorcycle and bicycle patrols in areas where their unique abilities are best suited, and today’s technology continues to streamline our intelligence gathering and reporting processes. Our Detective Division continues to diversify computer and identity fraud cases which are on the rise and I felt that we have just touched the tip of the iceberg. Detectives dedicated to these crimes and highly trained in these areas are in place within our Detective Division. Close cooperation with the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office has led members of this division to become integral parts of several high profile, current and “cold case” investigations. The Detective Division under the supervision of Sergeant Robert Szala was instrumental in creating our current “I.M.P.A.C.T. Patrols”. Under the direction of Chief Pacheco and with assistance and cooperation of the Patrol Division this concept came to fruition. Directed patrol teams of uniformed patrol officers and detectives, gather intelligence, plan activities and conduct enforcement. These patrols are in our community. The result had been extraordinary and the I.M.P.A.C.T. Patrol Program has become the envy of, and model for many surrounding communities. Our Communications Division has undergone significant hardware and software upgrades and received intense training for communications personnel and selected police officers in response to the Enhanced 911 upgrades. The Communication Division is an integral part of the Operations Division and continues to handle the lion’s share of our interaction with the community. I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every member of the Dartmouth Police “team” for their dedication to service and to the community. Most importantly, be safe out there. Sincerely, Captain Scott Brooks Captain Scott Brooks Operations Division Commander

DARTMOUTH POLICE DEPARTMENT

PERSONNEL

Ranking Officers and Special Service Assignments

Mark Pacheco Chief of Police Dennis E. McGuire Captain, Executive Officer/Director of Support Services Scott Brooks Captain, Operations Divisions Commander

Kenneth Cotta Lieutenant, 8-4 Commander/Public Information/Quartermaster/Traffic Division Supervisor Gary Soares Lieutenant, 4-12 Commander/ K-9 Supervisor/Firearms Coordinator Allen Shaw Sergeant, Police, EMS Coordinator Robert Szala Sergeant, Investigative Services Commander Peter Faria Sergeant, Dive Team Supervisor Raymond Lake Sergeant, Alternate Commander 2nd & 3rd relief’s Mark Zielinski Sergeant, Alternate Commander/Patrol Supervisor 3rd Relief/ Bike Patrol Gregg Rutch Sergeant, 1st Relief /Field Training Coordinator, Intermittent Officer Supervisor/Facilities Supervisor Ryan Mitchell Detective/Identification George Perry Detective Paul Medeiros Detective Brian Levesque Detective Robert Levinson Detective Marc Maynard Detective William Garcia Firearms Licensing/Assistant Quartermaster/Computer Services Assistant Joseph Vieira Traffic/Safety Division/ Motor Vehicle Crash Reconstruction/Fleet Coordinator Richard Medeiros Alternate Traffic/Safety Division/Motor Vehicle Crash Reconstruction/Radio Services Assistant Charles Lackie K-9 Officer Craig Pimental K-9 Officer Jared White K-9 Officer

Ptl. David Mello retired 04/07

Police Officers Uniform Patrol Division

John Rose/Patrol Investigator S cott Affonce / Bike Patrol Victor Porto Sean Mc.Guire / Field Training Officer / Bike Patrol Philip Dutra / Firearms Licensing Assistant. Kyle Costa / Field Training Officer Nancy Thibodeau Jonathan Smith Jeffrey Lewis Steven Canario Howard Wong Peter Canuel Scott Stanton / Dive Team Coordinator Frank Oliveira / Field Training Officer Bike Patrol Tony Vincent / Field Training Officer Manuel DeMelo John P. Costa / Motorcycle Patrol officer Joseph Rapoza / Dive Team Member Paul Arruda / Bike Patrol Jeremy Smith Andrew Wheaton / Firearms Instructor Justin Fonseca / Bike Patrol Scott Lake / Field Training Officer James Storey Derek Kenney / Field Training Officer David Tavares Keith DaCosta Richard Pacheco / Motorcycle Patrol Officer David Oikarinen Frank Condez Derek Sousa Robert St. Denis Matthew Beauparland Lisa Bradley Victor Morency Jose Catana Kevin DaCosta

Intermittent Police Officers

Matthew Michaud Corey Pimental Jason Arruda Tim Bernard Scott Brooks Ryan Cabral Robert Days Marc Vachon Shawn Souza Brian Sladewski Ryan Souza Victor Trinidad

39 Communications

Joann Ashworth / Communications Training / Leaps Representative / Dispatcher Auzenda Brasidio Dispatcher Katie Marie Edgcomb Dispatcher Darlene Fielding Dispatcher Todd Grant Dispatcher Timothy J. Klatt Dispatcher Melissa Liberty / Communications Training / Leaps Representative /Dispatcher Patrick Mendonca Dispatcher David Saulnier Dispatcher Donna Wunschel Dispatcher

Cleric al Staff

Sandra Hdowlan Administrative Clerk Diane Dupont Principal Clerk Lorie Vieira Principal Clerk Deborah Wotton Administrative Clerk

Traffic Supervisors

Gladys G. Pimpao Traffic Coordinator Cindy Miller Traffic Supervisor Lynne Mercure Traffic Supervisor Kathleen Raudonaitis Traffic Supervisor

40 Dartmouth Police Department In an Emergency dial: 911

DEPARTMENT EXTENSIONS

Office of the Chief of Police 508-910-1736 Executive Officer 508-910-1724 Director of Support Services 508-910-1743 Operations Commander 508-910-1743 Lieutenants 508-910-1777 Sergeants 508-910-1776 Traffic Safety 508-910-1770 Firearms Licensing 508-910-1738 Investigative Service Division 508-910-1775 Computer Systems 508-910-1753 Communications/Dispatch 508-910-1735 Records Room 508-910-1774 Anonymous Crime Tip Line 508-997-9900 (answering machine)

K-9 DIVISION 2007 TOWN REPORT

The year 2007 passed quickly for the busy team members of the Dartmouth Police K-9 Division. Officer Jared White and K-9 Topper, Officer Charles Lackie and K-9 Tonka and Officer Craig Pimental and K-9 Edgar. They provided several educational and entertaining demonstrations in and around town . A good example was the St. Julie September fest. This was done at St. Julies Church on Slocum Road and geared to the crowd in attendance putting the patrol dogs and handlers through their paces.

While the K-9’s were on and off duty, they were called upon to assist both the patrol division and investigative services division with many incidents, too numerous to list all of them. Individually and collectively all of our K-9 teams are an irreplaceable asset to the Town and the Police Department as a whole. These are a few highlights out of their very busy activities.

Officer Lackie and K-9 Tonka: Officer Lackie and Tonka performed many on duty tracks. One of which involved a suspect f leeing from a stabbing at Benny’s on Dartmouth St. This happened on Halloween night. T he suspect had assaulted another youth and fled in the wooded area near the store. K-9 Tonka and Officer Lackie were called upon to attempt to locate the suspect and any evidence connected with the crime. The area was cordoned off by other officers who were there to assist. Officer Lackie and Tonka began their track from the last know location and during the track Officer Lackie detected a slight change in his K-9 partners behavior. Officer Lackie had the spot marked, where the dog’s behavior changed and continued on. Ultimately, the suspect was located off site by other assisting officers. Officer Lackie and K-9 Tonka returned to the marked location and recovered the weapon used in the assault. This was a textbook case of K-9 and handler working in perfect harmony. Officer Lackie and Tonka were also key factors several weeks later when a suspect fled on foot after he was discovered operating a stolen motor vehicle and left the vehicle abandoned fleeing into the woods. Officer Lackie responded with his partner and a short time tracked from the stolen car locating the suspect in the woods who was subsequently arrested by other officers.

Officer White and K-9 Topper: Officer White and his K-9 partner Topper were called upon to assist our patrol division and investigative services division with numerous tracks. His main focus this year was on narcotics detection. He was instrumental in the location of a substantial quantity of drugs located in a vehicle reported by an off duty Dartmouth officer resulting in the arrest of the owner of the vehicle and confiscation of narcotics processing equipment. They were also used extensively this past year by the District Attorney’s office in several narcotics investigations that were wide spread and still on going. He was also instrumental in coordinating the demonstrations that our K-9’s did around town.

Officer Craig Pimental and K-9 Partner Edgar: Officer Pimental and his K-9 partner Edgar were directed to assist in locating a missing person early in 2007. The

42 weather was brutally cold and had been for several days. The last sighting of the male had been several days before. Officer Pimental used a scent article for Edgar to get a track started. The track was a short one to a nearby waters edge where Edgar indicated that the track had gone into the water. After checking up and down the shores edge in both directions from where Edgar’s first indication was it was evident that the missing person had entered the water there. After a brief check at the waters edge the male was located unfortunately deceased.

Recently while home and off duty Officer Pimental was contacted by Officers that there had been a house break just minutes before and the suspects were still in the area. Officer Pimental took Edgar and they went to work, locating a solid track in the wooded area no t far from the residence that had been broken into. Within a few minutes the pair of house breakers were flushed out by Officer Pimental and Edgar into the waiting arms of several other off duty officers and assisting Massachusetts State Police.

The Dartmouth Police K-9 teams have now been together for over seven years; they are at the peak of their form. Unfortunately the reality is that just when we think they are as good as they can get, they will soon be ready to retire. Typically a K-9 team is ready to retire at around the age of nine and don’t even start working until they are around two years old. Which means that out there somewhere, there are three fluffy lovable little puppies that will be the next generation of Dartmouth finest K-9 partners. We are in our 34th year of uninterrupted service and with the continued support of the town and its residents we hope to be around for many years to come, as the invaluable part of the police department that the dogs have become.

Lieutenant. Gary Soares Lieutenant Gary Soares K-9 Supervisor

43 INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES DIVISION

During the year 2007, the Investigative Services Division continued to maintain a high level of professionalism and success. This was achieved despite the rise in violent crime as well as an increase in computer related crimes. I thank Chief Mark Pacheco for his tireless effort to secure the equipment and training we need.

A significant increase has been made with our child exploitation investigations and court action is sought whenever possible. We saw an increase in our violent crimes, which included several drive-by shootings. Fortunately, no serious injuries have resulted. Our efforts to combat this have been very successful. We formed I.M.P.A.C.T. (Integrated Municipal Police Anti Crime Team), a Unit that works under a philosophy geared towards the pro-active investigation and enforcement of street crimes that interfere with citizen’s quality of life and feelings of safety. This action has included a cooperative effort with our school officials. We expanded our sex offender registry compliance and made bold efforts to protect our children with aggressive monitoring of those offenders within our town.

We continue to investigate property and identity theft crimes and thank the community, both the citizens and businesses, for all their help. As always, this is a community effort.

Detective Sergeant Robert Szala D etective Sergeant Robert Szala Investigative Services Division

DARTMOUTH POLICE UNDERWATER RECOVERY UNIT

The Dartmouth Police Underwater Recovery Team currently consists of three members, Sgt. Peter Faria, Officer Scott Stanton, and Officer Joseph Rapoza. All three officers not only serve as full time police officer but also respond to all water emergencies.

The Dartmouth Police Dive Team has been very busy over the past two years working in cooperation, building a regional police dive team called S.E.M.L.E.C. (Southeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council). This is a co-op where local police departments in the Southeastern Massachusetts area have joined together to pool resources in improving services not only to the Town of Dartmouth but all member agencies. The goal of this organization is to work together in accomplishing the objectives associated with the mission of the Dartmouth Police to “serve our citizens”. This past year we have improved and maintained equipment that includes a dive vehicle, underwater tow video camera, and dive equipment used for underwater deployments.

We also have access to the regional Police Dive Recovery Boat, a 23-foot aluminum Safe Boat that will be available to the town if the need arises. This police boat

44 is not only used for dive operations but can also be utilized to provide security for our shoreline. We are also able to assist in recreational activities and events including the Dartmo uth Park Department Triathlon where participants swim the length of Round Hill beach. The police boat is always available in case of an emergency. A second smaller boat is also available for use in smaller bodies of water, it can operate in shallow water and has the maneuverability needed in confined areas. Some of our other equipment includes a jet ski loaned to us by JEM Motor Sports for quick response and is jointly shared with the Harbormaster’s Office for incidents requiring a dual purpose water craft for speed and the ability to operate in shallow water.

The Dartmouth Police dive team has been called upon to assist in the location and recovery of drowning victims, and in the recovery of stolen vehicles found under water. The dive team also has the ability to record and recover evidence located underwater, which may have been used in the commission of a crime.

In June, the Police Dive team was called as a member of S.E.M.L.E.C. to Fairhaven to assist that agency in locating and recovering a drowning victim. Upon our arrival at the scene, we were able to establish a search area and assist the regional divers and complete the assigned task.

In September, the Dartmouth Police Dive Team as part of S.E.M.L.E.C. assisted the Bristol County District Attorney’s office in recovering evidence at the ledge regarding a past investigation. The dive team has also been called over the past several years for water related incidents in Dartmouth including sinking boats, capsized canoes, and overdue boaters.

The Dive team trains once a month with S.E.M.L.E.C. to keep our skill level high and continue to provide a quality dive team to serve the Town of Dartmouth. We look forward, as always to working with all of the F ire Districts, their divers, and the Harbormaster’s Office to keep our waterways safe.

Respectfully, Sergeant Peter Faria Sergeant Peter Faria

STOLEN VEHICLE RECOVERED VEHICLE

January 5 January 1 February 4 February 0 March 3 March 2 April 4 April 2 May 10 May 5 June 5 June 3 July 6 July 4 August 1 August 1 September 7 September 1 October 5 October 2 November 0 November 0 December 4 December 1

Total 54 Total 22

46 FIREARM LICENSING PTL. WILLIAM GARCIA

The following Firearm Licenses were issued in the year 2007

Class A Large Capacity License 635 Firearm Identification Card 39 Chemical Propellant License 27 Resident Machine Gun License 7 Dealers License 11

Total License Issued 719

TOWN REPORT 2007 TRAFFIC DIVISION/CRIME PREVENTION

The Dartmouth Police Department currently has two officers assigned to the Traffic Division, Officer Joseph Vieira and Officer Richard Medeiros.

Officers Vieira and Medeiros have been trained and are certified Accident Reconstruction Officers. In 2007 our reconstruction team responded to approximately 10 crashes that were life threatening. Unfortunately 1 of these crashes resulted in fatalities. They also assisted in crashes that were less severe, but involved injuries and extensive property damage and/or arrest.

During 2007 the Traffic Division and Patrol Division participated in several state sponsored traffic enforcement programs. “Click it or Ticket”, “U Drink U Drive U Lose”, and Operation Yellow Blitz (school bus enforcement).

Officers Vieira and Medeiros continue to work closely with the business community in the area of the Dartmouth Mall during the holiday season. The concerns were holiday traffic. A traffic plan, which was developed in part by the Traffic Division 4 years ago, was successful and was used during the peak hours. It worked well considering the large amount of traffic generated during the holiday season.

Officers Vieira and Medeiros were involved, along with the Registry of Motor Vehicles, and the Department of Transport, in a school bus safety inspection of all Dartmouth school buses.

Officers Vieira and Medeiros are also responsible for cruiser maintenance and related equipment as well as radios, both in the cruisers, and hand held.

The department has made efforts to increase traffic enforcement throughout town, both with the Traffic Division and Patrol Division. This is a result, in part, of two surveys taken over the last ten years that made it clear from the residents that traffic enforcement is a primary concern. For 2007 the results of the increased enforcement resulted in an increase amount of traffic stops.

The department continues to make available home inspections as sisting the schools as needed. The UMASS Off Campus Housing project is in its 8th year, which includes working with students who live off campus, landlords and neighbors. We also participated in an auto-etching program with UMASS and the Governor’s Auto Strike Force. Approximately 35 vehicles have vehicle identification numbers etched in their windows and registered with the strike force.

Lieutenant Ken Cotta Lieutenant Ken Cotta Traffic Division/Crime Prevention

Annual Report Of Sealer of Weights and Measures

For the period commencing January 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007.

Theodore Machado, Sealer

The Department of Weights and Measures ensures that equity and fairness prevail in the marketplace between the buyer and seller and enforces all laws, ordinances and regulations relating to the accuracy of weighing and measuring devices used by local business establishments. These include taxi meters, gas station pumps, home heating oil truck meters, hospital and health clinic scales, truck scales, factory and pharmacy scales, and scales for the tipping of solid waste.

The Department of Weights and Measures enforces Massachusetts General Laws and regulations relating to the accuracy of weighing and measuring devices that weigh, measure, or count commodities offered for public sale. The department also seals or condemns devices tested, and performs such work in accordance with state laws and regulations and municipal ordinances, subject to review through reports and periodic checks by the State Division of Standards. Additionally the department inspects prepackaged food and merchandise to ensure compliance with weight, measurement and count requirements, and for proper labeling as to weight, measure and extended prices. It

48 also inve stigates complaints on measuring devices or those not conforming to legal standards, checks hawkers and peddlers for possession of licenses, and inspects weighing and measuring devices used by these vendors. The Department also advises merchants on packaging and labeling of goods.

This Department uses Handbook 44, Specifications, Tolerances, and other Technical Requirements for Weighing and Measuring Devices, promulgated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, of the United States Department of Commerce, and further promulgated by the Massachusetts Division of Standards.

Sealing fees collected and submitted to the Town Treasurer amounted to $6,039.00.

Dartmouth Emergency Management Agency

Edward V. Pimental, Jr. Director Robert T. DeCampos Deputy Brad Anselmo Operations Officer Nancy M. Pimental Secretary Mary Ellen DeFrias Administrative Clerk Antone Duarte Member Nathan Dufault Member Erica Harris Member Luiz Lopes Member Stacey Martin Member Kevin O’Brien Member Paul Rymszewicz Member Brian Sladewski Member Leonard Thompson Member

The year of 2007 continued to be a busy year for the Emergency Management Agency staying active in the community.

We are pleased to announce the addition of two new members in our department, Nathan Dufault and Kevin O’Brien.

The department continues to maintain a close working relationship with the Police, Fire, Town department heads and NSTAR to ensure coordination of efforts in case of an emergency. The department is also represented at the town’s monthly Public Safety meeting. During the past year, this department provided assistance when needed to the

49 police, fire and various town agencies. We also continue to train once a month, as well as maintaining any certifications needed.

The CERT Program (Community Emergency Response Team) with its 30 citizens continues to have refresher courses and is ready to help in an emergency.

Our department updated our CEMP Plan in compliance with FEMA and MEMA requirements. EMA personnel attended meetings with FEMA and MEMA to stay abreast of information important to be ready to act in an emergency.

We are also pleased to coordinate the Memorial Day Parade.

Again we would like to take this opportunity to thank all Town Officials and local business people for their help and assistance in 2007.

Edward V. Pimental, Jr. Director

DEPARTMENT OF P U BL IC WORKS

Board of Pub li c Works Lee M. Azinheira, Ch airman Richard R. Medeiros, V ic e Chairman Manuel Branco , C lerk

Department of Public Works

David T. Hickox, P.E. Director Michelle L. DeFranco Office Manager Confidential /Secretary

Bonnie J. Souza Contract Bidding Aide

Diane L. Vieira Administrative Clerk Kerry Riggs Principal Clerk Maria Rosa Mendonca Principal Clerk Priscilla Tavares Clerk (Part-time)

50 A message from the Director of Public Works David T. Hickox. P.E.

For FY 2008, the Town implemented a Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) solid waste and recycling program. As part of the program, a Solid Waste Enterprise Fund (SWEF) was established by Town Meeting and the cost of operating the program became user based, effectively separating the costs associated with solid waste and recycling from the Town’s general fund. The PAYT program has been a tremendous success, reducing the tonnage of solid waste collected curbside by 50%, and increasing curbside recycling by 38%. Approximately 500 homes “opted-out” of the PAYT program by contracting with private solid waste companies. I would like to thank the participating PAYT residents for their effort in making year one of PAYT a success. I would also like to thank the Department of Public Works personnel for their hard work in the implementation process. In an effort to reduce the residents’ cost for PAYT, the Board of Public Works has committed to evaluating private solid waste and recycling services for FY 2009.

In 2007, the Department of Public Works completed several important roadway, drainage and water system improvement projects. Our Construction Division completed the installation of drainage and the full depth reconstruction on Donald Street and Jordan Road, and the installation of new water main on McCabe Street (east). The Department put a significant effort into mitigating ongoing drainage issues throughout the Town. A significant effort was expended on the site of the new Panelli Wells by the installation of a new water main loop from Rte. 6 to Old Westport Road via the well site. Construction Division personnel also installed the underground electrical service to the Panelli Wells.

The Slocum Road Reconstruction Project – Phase 3 between Sharp Street and Elm Street was put on hold in 2007 due to the installation of new gas main in Slocum Road by NStar. Subject to funding, Phase 3 will start in the spring of 2008. This final phase will consist of the installation of new granite curbing, concrete sidewalks with handicap accessible ramps, the reconstruction of the roadway surface, and intersection improvements.

The Bayview Sewer Project scheduled for completion in November 2 007, was delayed due to the unanticipated volume of ledge encountered during construction. As of October 2007, all piping had been installed. The construction of the sewer pump stations is scheduled for completion by April 2008. The Old Westport Road Sewer Project also took place in 2007 and is scheduled for completion in the spring of 2008.

As our Water Pollution Control Facility approaches design capacity, the Town will be performing a Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan. This comprehensive plan will direct the Department of Public Works on future wastewater improvements related to collection and treatment over the next 20-year planning period. This important planning project will be performed by Fay, Spofford & Thorndike Engineering and will be funded by the Department of Environmental Protection through the SRF loan program.

In 2007, Weston & Sampson Services, Inc., completed the construction of the Panelli Wells on land located between Rte. 6 and Old Westport Road. This new municipal

51 water supply will yield 600 gallons per minute and will be in service by May 2008. The Department is currently reviewing a feasibility study for the development of a new water supply and treatment facility on Town owned land in the northwestern section of Town.

A new traffic signal with lane modifications on Faunce Corner Road at I-195 was put into service in 2007. I would like to thank Select Board member Carney for his diligent effort in working with Mass Highway to make this improvement project a reality.

The Massachusetts Highway Department (MHD) has completed their review of the Dartmouth Street reconstruction project. The final project scope would include intersection improvements at Rockdale Ave, Cove Road and Rogers Street, and the upgrade or installation of new granite curbing, concrete sidewalks and roadway pavement from Rockdale Ave. to Rogers Street.

After several years delay, MHD has given the Town the “green light” to proceed with the engineering design of the Padanaram Causeway Rehabilitation Project. The Town was granted $1,400,000 from a Congressional appropriation with an additional $300,000 matching grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Board of Public Works has recently selected the engineering firm of Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc (VHB) to provide professional engineering services for this project.

The Construction Division under the leadership of Mr. Paul Pacheco will be undertaking several important projects in 2008, including the replacement of water main on Old Reed Road, George Street, Golen Drive and Gentle Valley Drive. The reconstruction of George Street will also include drainage improvements as necessary. Several water main upgrades are scheduled to improve water quality including replacement of “TCE” and asbestos lined water main.

Additional Construction Division projects include the installation of an underground storm drainage treatment device on Prospect Street. The “Vortechnic” unit will treat sto rm water prior to discharge into Apponagansett Bay. A grant from the Department of Environmental Protection funded the materials for this important project.

As FY’09 approaches, the Department will continue to evaluate the most cost effective approach to providing essential services as well as maintaining and upgrading the Town’s infrastructure. As roadway reconstruction costs continue to rise, it is imperative that the Town continues to properly budget for the maintenance and rehabilitation of our roadway infrastructure.

Mr. Christopher Okafor, Highway Supervisor, resigned in April 2007. I would like to acknowledge Mr. Okafor’s hard work and dedication to the Town. As a result of Mr. Okafor’s resignation, the Board of Public Works has approved a reorganization plan for the Department of Public Works. The primary focus of the reorganization would be in the Highway Division. The plan calls for Mr. Paul Pacheco to move from the position of Field Manager to Superintendent of Services & Infrastructure, and promotes Mr. Roy

52 Pinheiro to Assistant Superintendent of Services & Infrastructure effectively taking over the day-to-day responsibilities previously held by Mr. Okafor.

After several years of harsh winter storms, the Town was fortunate that 2007 brought a winter season with unseasonable warm temperatures and no significant snow. The Highway Division expended a significant effort in roadway striping, brush clearing, drainage and roadway repairs in 2007. The Department of Public Works hired summer college interns to assist the various Departments in engineering, water and wastewater operations, and roadway maintenance. The interns provided added manpower during the summer months when staffing can be difficult due to summer vacations.

Our Water & Sewer Division, under the leadership of Mr. Steven Sullivan, continues to produce a first class municipal water supply for our Town. The Water Division personnel should be acknowledged for their ability to continually improve efficiency while at the same time taking on the operation of new facilities with no increase in personnel. The Water Division staff is well-trained and acknowledged professionals in the water industry.

I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank the Board of Public Works, Mr. Lee Azinheira, Chairman; Mr. Richard Medeiros, Vice Chairman; Mr. Manuel Branco, Clerk for providing policy, guidance and oversight to the Department. It has been a pleasure to serve such a dedicated and knowledgeable Board.

Finally, I would like to personally acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all Department of Public Works employees serving the residents of Town.

ENGINEERING DIVISION

Ronald A. Richard Senior Engineer Robert W. Swallow Associate Engineer/Inspector Stephen Lawrence Associate Engineer/Inspector Joseph M. Pimentel Associate Engineer/Inspector Timothy J. Barber Associate Engineer/Inspector

The Engineering Division continues to provide permitting, engineering design, bidding and inspectional services for various public works projects, as well as residential and commercial developments. In 2007, the Division provided resident engineering for the Bayview Sewer Project, the Cedar Dell Sewer Project, and the Tucker Road Sewer Project. The use of the Engineering Division personnel for the betterment sewer projects reduces the cost and provides better control than the use of consultant engineers. As we move into 2008, the Engineering Division has completed the design and bid documents for the Slocum Road Reconstruction Project – Phase III. This project will consist of the installation of new granite curbing, concrete sidewalks with handicap ramps, reshaping and paving of the travel way, and intersection improvements. After several years of permitting, the Division received Department of Environmental Protection approval for

53 the expanded Transfer Station.

As part of the Town’s Inflow/Infiltration (I/I) Program, the Engineering Division continues to work on an aggressive manhole cover replacement project, which includes the installation of internal manhole seals, and detailed manhole inspection. This ongoing program reduces the flow of clean water into the sewer collection system thereby creating sewer system capacity issues, and increased cost to collect, transfer and treat sanitary waste. The use of the Engineering Division for I/I inspections will be a priority for 2008.

HIGHWAY & SANITATION/RECYCLING DIVISION

Roy Pinheiro, Interim Assistant Highway Supervisor

Mary Ann Ferreira, Administrative Clerk

Michael Brosius David Souza Michael Cabral Ronald Souza A. Manny Cardoso Stephen Souza Lance Fielding William Starvaggi Carl Furtado Robert Sylvia Frank Manley Wayne Thatcher, Jr. James Martins Stephen Vincent Andrew Medeiros Shaun Westgate Stanley Medeiros Richard Wotton Christopher Mendonca Jason Xavier Steven Mendonca Daniel Miller Bridge Tenders (Seasonal Daniel Mota Joseph Baptista Steven Pelletier Armand Farland Glenn Pinto Bethany Furtado Steven Oliveira Frederick Icyk Steven Oliveira Kelley Manchester Justin Raposa Keith Manchester Mark Santos David Simas

HIGHWAY & SANITATION DIVISION 2007 Recyclables Collected at Transfer Station

Amount Collected Description .58tons Batteries 98 tons Cardboard 7248 ton s Compostables/Organics (leaves) 264tons Construction & Demolition 62 each Fluorescent Lamps (misc. size bulbs) 906 each Fluorescent Lamps (straight bulbs) 38 tons Mixed and Clear Glass, Green Glass 53 tons Junk Mail/Magazines 17 tons Mattresses 2 tons Metal Cans 4 tons Plastic Clear 3 tons Plastic/Milk 4 tons Plastic/Mix 178 each Propane Tanks 24 tons Refrigerators, Freezers, and Air Conditioners 13 tons Tires 26 tons TV/Computers 3,430 gallons Waste Oil 15,460 lbs. Used Clothing/Textiles (American Red Cross & Pac Trading Containers) 85 tons Newspaper 257 tons Scrap Metals

Municipal Solid Waste Collect at Transfer Station – 636 tons. Municipal Solid Waste Collected at curbside -----7,995 tons

Recyclables Collected at Curbside Tons Description 1,324 tons Newspaper, cardboard/paperboard/magazines 589 tons Co-mingled: glass, #1 - #7 plastics, cans

Roadside Debris Collected Tons Description 78 each Misc. debris (TV’s furniture, etc.) 6,420 lbs. Misc. debris (lumber, tire, etc.)

55 Construction Division

Paul Pacheco, Field Manager

Normand Emond Robert Frias Michael Pavao Tobey Pimental Roy Pinheiro Antonio Rodrigues David Rebello Antonio Tavares Michael Sweeney (Retired 6/07)

The Construction Division had a very active year in spite of the loss of two key senior personnel; one position lost to a reassignment to the Highway Divisions as interim Assistant Highway Supervisor and the other to retirement. The Construction Division assisted the Highway Division in completing a number of projects that were outstanding. Several important projects were completed with a substantial savings to the Department. Inflow/Infiltration (I/I) work was completed within the Reed Road service area. This work consisted of installing special Cretex chimney seals inside (230) sewer manholes to prevent groundwater from flowing into the sewer system and taxing the water pollution control facility.

Manholes and Catch Basins repairs for the Highway Division

The construction crew performed the following work in various areas around the town.

Frames replaced 6-Catch Basins completely rebuilt 16-Concrete flat tops replaced 8-Catch Basins Frames & Covers were replaced 6-Drain Manholes repaired 6-Drain Manholes Covers & Frames replaced

Drain line Repairs

The Division worked on repairs to the Tucker Road area repairing 120’ of 6” drain line between White Weed Drive and Wayne Memorial Drive, tying into an existing drain line cros sing Tucker Road eliminating running water and icy conditions from entering the roadway during the winter months. Jordan Road The Division performed full depth reconstruction of the existing roadway including new asphalt and the loam and seeding of shoulders of the road. Four driveway aprons were replaced. Donald Street The crew reconstructed 1,200’ of roadway and 600’ of 10” drain line, and 6 new catch basins. The existing roadway was then reclaimed and new asphalt base pavement was placed with new Cape Cod berm along the roadway edges.

56 High Hill Road The Division installed (1) new catch basin and drain manhole with 1,100’ of 10” drain line. The roadway area was over-laid with new asphalt. Alpha Street The Division had 600’ of the existing road surface on Alpha Street between Sharp and Westwood Streets reclaimed. The bas e asphalt layer was pla ced this fall with the top layer to be installed in the spring of 2008. N. Hixville Road This project consisted of drain and roadway improvements. The first phase was completed in the winter of 2006 and spring of 2007. This summer the Division raised, to final pavement grade, (15) new catch basins, (7) new drain manholes to install 1 ½” of top pavement. The existing driveway aprons were repaved to the new roadway grades and edges of the new roadway were loamed and seeded. Copicut Road This project was performed in conjunction with the North Hixville Road Project. The Construction Division raised to final road grade (2) new drain manholes and (4) catch basins. The road was paved with 1 ½ of top pavement and existing driveway aprons repaved to the new roadway grade and edges of pavement loamed and seeded. Reed Road This project was a combined drain, roadway and water line improvement project. The division replaced the existing T.C.E. coated waterline, removed the continuous flow at the end of the 16” waterline and 2,600’ of new 16” water main was installed. The Division raised (7) new catch basins, (7) new drain manholes to final pavement grade, and 1 ½” of top pavement was placed in the spring of 2007. The new roadway edges were loamed and seeded and all existing driveways were adjusted to new pavement grade. Lane Farms In the s pring of 2007; 500’ of roadway was repaved, new Cape Cod berm installed, and the pavement edges were loamed and seeded. West McCabe Street This project was a combined waterline improvement and roadway improvement project. The division replaced 880’ of 8” TCE coated water line, reconnected 15 existing well services and installed 3 new fire hydrants. After the main was completed, a 1,000’ of roadway was reclaimed and 2” of road base pavement was placed. In the spring of 2008, 1” of top pavement will be placed. Panelli Well Site This project was part of the new Panelli Well project. The division installed 3-4”, 1,200’ long concrete incased electrical duct bank. Also 3 new electrical pull boxes with one new transformer pad. Also 420’ of 8” D.I. water main was installed and one new fire hydrant.

Streets Reconstructed, Widened & Resurfaced in 2007 Name Length Jordan Rd 5400’ Donald Street 605’ West Bliss Street 500’

57 Alpha Street 620 ’ West McCabe Street 1,000 Total 7625’=1.4 miles

Curbing & Sidewalk Improvements Name Concrete Bituminous Granite Donald Street 1,200 Lane Farms Dr 1,000 Total 2,200

WATER POLLUTION CONTROL

Carlos M. Cardoso Water Pollution Control Manager James Shaw Assistant Water Pollution Control Manager Richard Perry Chief Maintenance Operator

Plant Operators II Plant Operators I William Messier Jose Mota Dennis Matos Motor Equipment Operators Mark S. Phaneuf Christopher Camara Dennis Lewis Dennis Medeiros Antonio Torres Chris Swallow, Plant Custodian

Dartmouth’s Treatment Plant is one of the finest in Southeastern Massachusetts and tours are frequently given to visitors who perceive it as a model plant that is run very professionally. The staff is under the fine leadership of Mr. Carlos Cardoso, Water Pollution Control Manager.

The Town accepts brush from private contractors and residents. In 2007, the brush grindin g operation produced 10,040 cubic yards of amendment (ground brush), which is recycled to the plant composting facility. The composting facility then blends the ground brush and bio-solids. A total of 5,805 cubic yards of finished, screened compost was produced in 2007. The finished compost is then screened and sold on the compost market.

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT Water Treated and Pumped Total Flow Year Gallons 2000...... 900,900,000 2001...... 927,080,000 2002...... 897,570,000 2003...... 1,088,8 30 ,000 2004...... 1,077,8 80 ,000 2005...... 1,269,720,000 2006...... 1,159,400,000 2007...... 1,027,340,000

WATER DIVISION

MISSION STATEMENT:

The Dartmouth Water Division is dedicated to providing, protecting and preserving today’s water supplies for tomorrow’s consumers. Our commitment is to supply quality water that complies with all State & Federal standards, provide education and excellent customer service, and to be the leaders in our profession.

I respectfully submit the following report and pumping record for the year 2007:

Month Gallons Month Gallons

January 68,947,000 July 131,399,000

February 68,793,000 August 134,031,000

March 71,058,000 September 114,255,000

April 72,183,000 October 94,940,000

May 95,262,000 November 73,156,000

June 114,666,000 December 68,694,000

Of all the water pumped, 75% or 834,400,000 gallons were pumped from our own wells and 25% or 272,984,000 gallons were purchased from the City of New Bedford. The greatest amount pumped in one day was 5,554,000 gallons on August 2, 2007. The daily average water pumped per day for 2007 was 3,033,929 gallons. Total 2007 precipitation measured at the 687 Chase Road Treatment Plant was 35.68 inches compared to 41.86 inches in 2006.

The Water Division has an active in-house program for back flow prevention and cross connections, which represents savings for the department. Several employees have taken advantage of educational programs for Certification under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

The Water Division has continued throughout the year with an aggressive maintenance program, which included fire hydrant painting, spring and fall hydrant flushing, lead service line replacement and system valve exercising. Many of our wells were rehabilitated to allow the wells to pump at their maximum capacity.

The Consumer Confidence Report was mailed to all of the ratepayers. This report is sent out each year to provide information to consumers on how our water is treated as well as any other pertinent information that consumers should know about their water. In 2007, the water division purchased 30.44 acres of land to further protect the Town of Dartmouth’s water supply in the area that abuts the new Panelli Wells, which are set to go online in 2008.

The contract for the cleaning and painting of the 500,000 gallon Allen Street Elevated tank was awarded to Modern Protective Coatings Inc. of Hudson NH, in the amount of $498,140.00. The storage tank was taken off line on February 22, 2007, to start the project. The project was completed and the elevated tank was put back into service on June 8, 2007.

The Current systems totals now stands as follows:

189.67 Miles of water main

2,874 gate or butterfly valves 6" or larger

1,565 Fire Hydrants

8,873 Water Services

92.95 Miles of sewer mains

6447 Sewer Services

Our employees are dedicated and committed to their jobs. As a Department Head, it is certainly rewarding to have employees of this caliber and I would like to personally thank all of them for their continued efforts.

Tricia Anthony Administrative Clerk Peter Andrade Water Facilities Operator Paul Galego Water Facilities Operator Kevin Nunes Water Facilities Operator Michael Roderick Water Systems Inspector James Barlow Craftsman Paul Andrade Assistant Operator 1 Gerald Lemos Craftsman/Assistant Water Facilities Operator Russell Hiksdal Working Foreman Richard Hopkins S.M.E.O Derek Martin H.M.E.O David Rebello Jr. Maintenance Worker Craig Souza Master Mechanic Jay Perry Meter Reader

“With Water Works Pride” Steven M. Sullivan 508-999-0742 smsullivan @town.dartmouth.ma.us

SEWER MAINS

Location Length (L.F.) Size Manholes Bayview Avenue 654.5 8” PVC 5 279.4 2” PVC F.M. 136 1 ½” PVC F.M. Beach Avenue 719.2 8” PVC 3 209.2 1 ½ ” PVC F.M. Bourne Place 841 10” PVC 4 Degaris Avenue 1,055.4 10” PVC 5 Dutra Avenue 549.6 8” PVC 2 Dyke Avenue 245.1 8” PVC 1 379.5 1 ½” PVC F.M. Elm Street (Heritage Wharf) 38 6” PVC 1 Faunce Corner Road (jail site) 656 8” PVC 5 130 6” PVC 1 Gulf Road 1,883.6 10” PVC 15 1,672.8 8” PVC

61 4,946.2 6: PVC F.M. 1 (air release) 32 2” PVC F.M. 448 1 ½” PVC F.M. 1 pumping station 1 bridge crossing Salt Creek Road 1,076.4 8” PVC 6 Smith Neck Road 1,482.4 10” PVC 10 572 12” PVC 137.8 8” PVC UMass (research building) 350 2” PVC F.M. 350 3” PVC F.M. West Smith Neck Road 1,651.5 12” PVC 9 1,115.4 6” PVC F.M. 577.4 1 ½” PVC F.M. 1 pumping station Westwood Drive 226 8” PVC 1 Tucker Road 2,095 8” PVC 7 TOTALS 24,509.4’ 76 2 pumping stations

SERVICES FOR 2007 60 – NEW WATER SERVICES 15 – REPLACED, REPAIRED, OR DISCONTINUED 72 – NEW SEWER SERVICES 5 – REPLACED, REPAIRED, OR DISCONTINUED 1 – NEW DRAIN SERVICE\ WATER MAINS

Location Length (L.F.)± Size Gates Hydrants Bayview Avenue 973.5 8” D.I. 5 2 Beach Avenue 1,302.1 8” D.I. 5 2 Blossom Court 382 8” D.I. 2 1 Clarendon Street 825 6” D.I. 5 2 Cross Road (Applebee’s) 58 6” D.I. 1 0 Cross Road (Bristol County Bank) 282.6 6” D.I. 1 0 Degaris Avenue 1,050.4 8” D.I. 7 3 Dutra Avenue 697 8” D.I. 3 1 Faunce Corner Road (jail site) 801 6” D.I. 5 1 Gulf Road 0 12” D.I. 1 0 Pleasant Lane & East Lakeside 462 6” D.I. 3 2 Avenue Smith Neck Road 0 12” D.I. 7 1

Smith Neck Road 599 8” D.I. 2 0 State Road (T.G.I. Fridays) 104 6” D.I. 1 0 West Smith Neck Road 12” D.I. 1 0 Westwood Drive 239 6” D.I. 2 1 Totals 7,775.6 51 16

62 PLANNING BOARD ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2007

PL ANNING BOARD

Lorri-Ann Miller, Chairman Term Expires 2011 Joseph E. Toomey, Jr., Vice Chairman Term Expires 2009 John Haran, Clerk Term Expires 2010 John V. Sousa Term Expires 2008 Arthur C. Larrivee Term Expires 2012 Kathleen DelSordo, Alternate Member Term Expires 2008

PLANN ING STAFF

Donald A. Perry, AICP Planning Director Joyce J. Couture Planning Aide Elizabeth A. Smith-Bochman Principal Clerk

OVERVIEW

The development statistics for subdivisions reviewed by the Planning Board in the year 2007 indicated a decrease in the sum total of new lots in Dartmouth for the year. The total number of new lots created in 2007 was 44, down from 88 in 2006. This total includes Definitive Subdivision lots and ANR lots. Definitive Subdivision lots decreased from 45 in 2006 to 24 in 2007. The number of ANR lots decreased from 43 to 20.

Commercial development, as represented by parking spaces reviewed, showed a decrease from 6 41 in 2 006 t o 376 in 2007. The 376 spa ces reviewed in 2007 are the lowest since 1998.

The most notable planning event in 2007 was the com pletion of the updated Growth Management Master Plan prepared by SRPEDD, the Town’s Master Plan consultants. The plan was completed and adopted by unanimou s vote of the Planning Board on October 15, 2007. On October 16, 2 007, Fall Annual Town Meeting also voted to adopt an amendment to the Town of Dartmouth’s Zoning B y-Laws, updating the Preamble, which refers to the new Master Plan. The Planning B oard looks forward to implementing recommendations of the Maste r Plan and has already begun work on mixed use and village zoning which have been g iven a high priority in the plan. Preparatory to updating village zoning, the Planning Bo ard sought volunteers and established the Padanaram Village Review Committee to provide recommendations and feedback for village zoning.

At the Spring Annual Town Meeting, a residential wind turbine zoning by-law was adopted. The wind turbine by-law will allow residential size wind mills by Special Permit and should encourage clean, renewable el ectric energy creation at the local level.

63 In the summer of 2007, the Planning Board voted to adopt, after holding a duly required public hearing, a totally updated and revised version of the Town’s Subdivision Regulations. The revised Subdivision Regulations was a collaboration of different departments and specialists; such as the Department of Public Works, Fire Chiefs, and the Town’s drainage consultant. The Subdivision Regulations contain the standards and procedures to follow in order to secure Planning Board endorsement or approval for plans which show divisions of land. The revised Subdivision Regulations were also posted on the Town’s website and the Subdivision Regulations forms and procedural flowcharts are in downloadable format.

Former Planning Board member, Kathleen DelSordo, was reappointed to serve as alternate Planning Board member for Special Permits. The alternate member is appointed by the Planning Board and is only requested to serve when a regular Planning Board member is unable to participate on a Special Permit application.

In addition to their Planning Board duties , Board members served on behalf of the Planning Board in the following capacities: Lorri-Ann Miller served as the Planning Board’s delegate to the SRPEDD Commission. John Haran served on the Chapter 40R ”Village at Lincoln Park” Committee; Joseph E. Toomey, Jr. served on the Soil Conservation Board; John Sousa served on the Affordable Housing Partnership, the Community Preservation Committee, and the Community Development Group; and the Planning Board’s newest member, Arthur Larrivee, served on the Agricultural Preservation Trust Council.

Throughout 2007, the Planning Board and/or its staff continued their reviews and activities in the following areas: * Reviewing subdivision plans and monitoring subdivision sureties; * Reviewing parking plans; * Reviewing variances submitted to the Board of Appeals; * Reviewing Conservation Commission Notices of Intent; * Preparing reports and recommendations to Town Meeting; and Providing technical assistance and information to citizens, Town committees, and developers.

SUBDIVISION AND COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT

The data charts that follow compare the level of development reviewed by the Planning Board over the specified time period:

64 APPROVAL NOT REQUIRED (ANR) PLANS

100 90 81 80 73

60 51 44 46 43 40 30 25 19 20 20 NEW LOTS CREATED 0 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 YEAR

DEFINITIVE PLANS 125 D 100 88

REATE 75 C 51 56

TS 45 50 36 LO 26 24 25 16 13 EW 10 11 N 0 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 YEAR

65 TOTAL NEW LOTS CREATED 1997 - 2007

160 139 140 124 107 120 100 102 100 88 80 57 61 60 46 44 40 30

# OF LOTS CREATED 20 0 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 YEAR

PARKING SPACES REVIEWED

6000 4866 5000 4000 3000 2158 2000 # OF SPACES 921 1000 770 681 583 642 708 641 271 376 0 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 YEAR

66 REPORT TO THE TOWN OF DARTMOUTH FROM THE COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUTHEASTERN REGIONAL PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT (SRPEDD)

The Town of Dartmouth is a member of the Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District. SRPEDD (pronounced sir-ped) is the regional agency serving twenty-seven cities and Towns in southeastern Massachusetts dealing with common issues facing our region, such as economic development, growth and land development, transportation, environment and general planning for the future. SRPEDD is governed by a Commission of local mayors, selectmen, planning board members and at large members. We are funded by federal and state grants and local assessments. For 2007, the Town of Dartmouth paid $4,953.48 to SRPEDD, based upon an assessment of 16.15 cents per capita.

Local citizens serving at SRPEDD included the following:

< SRPEDD Commission: Robert Carney and Lorri-Ann Miller < Joint Transportation Planning Group: Robert Carney and David Hickox

Lorri-Ann Miller also serves on the Executive Committee and as Past Chairman of the SRPEDD Commission. Robert Carney serves on the Executive Committee.

Some of SRPEDD's more significant accomplishments during 2007 were:

• Completion and approval of the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), which sets regional priorities for federal transportation funds, and the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). The TIP established priorities for federal and state regional targeted for highway projects, and transit funds for GATRA over the next 3 years.

• Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for Southeastern Massachusetts, a regional economic development strategy, was completed and certified by the U.S. Economic Development Administration, making the region eligible for federal economic development grants from EDA.

• The Taunton River Wild and Scenic initiative continued in 2007 with an effort to get the U.S. Congress to designate the Taunton River as a Wild & Scenic resource. SRPEDD is also a partner with 9 other organizations in the Taunton River campaign.

• SRPEDD publishes the 100 Most Dangerous Intersections in Southeastern Massachusetts for the period 2001-2004. The list included the following Dartmouth intersections: o Route 6 and Brandt Ave./Home Depot o Route 6 and Faunce Corner/Old Westport Road o Route 6 and Hathaway Road

• SRPEDD’s web site contains data and information about every city and Town in the region, and can be reached at http://www.srpedd.org. The web site was expanded again this year and now includes an inventory for more than 300 signalized intersections in the region.

• The Southeastern Massachusetts Commuter Rail Task Force met through 2007. The Task Force, which includes representation from 18 municipalities and 18 regional organizations, is examining the growth impact of the proposed rail service extension to Taunton, Fall River and New Bedford.

• SRPEDD is the designated fiduciary agent by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety for the Southeast Regional Advisory Council for Homeland Security serving 96 communities in 6 counties in southeastern Massachusetts. The Council has awarded $11.6 million in federal homeland security funds since 2004.

• SRPEDD conducts a district-wide traffic counting program (including speed surveys and vehicle classification, and intersection turning movement counts) and maintains a computer file of all available traffic count data throughout the region. SRPEDD undertook 100 counts at various locations this past year.

• An extensive Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping program is maintained by SRPEDD. Every year new computerized “data layers” are added to the system. SRPEDD also operates the Southeastern Massachusetts Data Center, providing information to businesses, cities and towns, and individuals.

• SRPEDD continues to provide planning and support to the two regional transit authorities, SRTA and GATRA, on various efforts including: consumer advisory committees, route evaluations, planning, monitoring services and federal reporting.

• SRPEDD maintains a comprehensive database of all 305 signalized intersections in the region. This includes geometry, traffic volume, crash rate, signal timing and operational characteristics.

• SRPEDD continued its affiliation with the South Eastern Economic Development (SEED) Corporation, which makes loans to small businesses for expansion. SEED is one of the Small Business Administration top lenders in New England.

In addition, municipal assistance was provided to the town in the following areas:

• Paskamansett River Clean Up Program – Public outreach and organization • Com pleted Master Plan • Faunce Corner Road Traffic Study

68 SRPEDD was created to serve the cities and towns of southeastern Massachusetts. We are governed by elected and appointed officials from all the cities and towns. We look forward to serving you in the future.

GREATER NEW BEDFORD REGIONAL REFUSE MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 2007

District Committee Rosemary Tierney, Chair Term expires 2009 Robert Medeiros, Vice-Chair Term expires 2008 Richard Medeiros, Second Vice-Chair Term expires 2008 Jeffrey King, Treasurer Term expires 2007 Nathalie Dias Term expires 2009 Gregory Lynam Term expires 2010

Administrative Staff

Virginia Valiela Executive Director Marie E. Alves Exec. Secretary, Asst. Treasurer Cynthia Cammarata Accountant Leonor Ferreira Office Assistant Marissa Perez-Dormitzer Recycling Coordinator Margaret Hebert Recycling Assistant

Operations Staff Hank Van Laarhoven Director of Operations & Chief Procurement Officer Paul Pease Landfill Foreman Roy Cardoso Utility Technician Randal Ferry Scale House Operator George W. Maciel Equipment Operator Robert Medeiros Equipment Operator Richard Mota Utility Technician Robert J. Porawski II Utility Technician Shawn Peckham Maintenance Foreman

The Refuse District has completed its thirteenth year of operations, providing a wide variety of solid waste services to the member communities of Dartmouth and New Bedford. The operation at the Crapo Hill Landfill continues to meet all environmental standards and provides an economical site for disposal of municipal trash. The District is currently filling Cells 1 & 2 of Phase 2, and has begun the construction of ten new acres of landfill f or Cells 3 & 4. Construction of the stormwater retention basin is complete.

The District has contracted with CommonWealth New Bedford LLC to convert landfill gas to electricity. A 3.2 megawatt plant was constructed beside the Crapo Hill Landfill and is connected to the landfill through a network of pipes. The plant went on line in December 2006 and has been performing above expectations. The District monitors and maintains the gas well field, and has installed 2760 feet of HDPE horizontal pipe and 1464 feet of vertical pipe to capture methane this year. Major in- house repairs were completed on the D5 and D65 dozers (bottoms turned).

During fiscal year 2007, the District landfilled 108,071 tons of trash. Dartmouth delivered 10,946 tons to the landfill, a drop of 357 tons compared to its 2006 tonnage. Dartmouth representatives are leading the way to reduced use of the landfill in order to prolong its life. The Select Board and the Board of Public Works v oted to implement a Pay-As-You-Go (PAYT) program, effective October 1, 2007. Recycling tonnage in calendar year 2007 was 2369 tons, a 16% increase ov er 200 6 . Plas tics #3 - #7 were added to the curbside collectio n prog ra m.

The District sp o nsored t wo ho u sehol d hazardo us wa st e coll ection days free of charge to residents, and three automotive collection days for tires and batteries for a small fee. Useable paint collected from households is stored at the Regional Paint Recycling Shed at the New Bedford Transfer Station, and is free to all. Other free recycling services are collection of fluore s cent b u lbs, m ercury-contain in g devi c es, and used oil at the Transfer Station. As always, the District appreciates the support of the DPW staff in the success of these progr am s.

BOARD OF APPEALS

BOARD OF APPEALS MER EMB S

Kimberly Moses-Smit h , Esq. ( Chair pe rson) Member- Term Expires 2008 Raymond Souza Member- Term Expires 2010 Roger Tougas M embe r- Term Expires 2009 Jose Abreu (resigned) Alternate- Term Expires 2007 Michael Travers Alternate- Term Expires 2009 Allan J. Turner Alternate- Term Expires 2008 Jane Choubah Principal Clerk

The Zoning Board of Appeals would like to welcome Jane Choubah, the new Principal Clerk who came on board December 11, 2007 and Allan Turner, the new Alternate Member who was appointed by the Select Board in December 2007.

OVERVIEW

The Zoning Enabling Act, Chapter 40A, was enacted by Chapters 368 and 551 of the Acts of 1954 and became effective on August 1, 1954, replacing the previous zoning enabling legislation, Section 25 to 30B, inclusive, of Chapter 40, General Laws. On December 22, 1975, the Governor signed Chapter 808 of the Acts of 1975, the Zoning Act, which created a new Chapter 40A of the Massachusetts General Laws.

The Board of Appeals is under the jurisdiction of Section 14, Chapter 40A of the General laws of Massachusetts. The Board consists of 6 members who are appointed by the Select Board of the Town of Dartmouth, three of which are Alternate Members.

A person aggrieved by the refusal of the issuance of a building permit by the Building Commissioner and Zoning Enforcement Officer may appeal to this office under the provisions of Chapter 40A of the Massachusetts General Laws.

In the year 2007 the Board heard petitions for amendments of prior decisions, special permits, variances and administrative appeals along with comprehensive permits which in part relies on Chapter 40B.

During 2007, the Board of Appeals has continued to work cooperatively with all departments affiliated with the health, safety and planning of the Town of Dartmouth to ensure protection of the Town’s environment while providing zoning relief when appropriate.

The following is the relief obtained by various petitioners in 2007:

Granted Denied Withdrawn Pending Total

Variance 21 3 1 4 29 Special Permit 19 0 1 2 22 Amendment 8 1 3 0 12 Comprehensive 2 2 Adm. Appeal 1 1 2 Change of Use 1 1 ------50 5 5 8 68

71 DARTMOUTH HISTORICAL COMMISSION

ANNUAL REPORT 2007

The Historical Commission is charged with preservation and documentation of the town’s historic buildings and sites. This year the commission has completed some projects that have been pending for a long while and has started a new venture to update the Form B's.

In the year 2007 the commission had 11 demolitions, nine were approved, one was delayed and one delay was lifted. The demolitions were basically out buildings of no significant value. The delay was on the Tower and Dish at Round Hill. The commission looked into various options for the tower but none were workable. (Moving it to Round Hill Beach or another location in town.) The applicants for demolition didn't have any suggestions either. The delay ended on Oct. 31, 2007 and the tower came down shortly after.

The delay that was lifted came about as a result of cooperative effort on the part of the applicant for demolition, their architect, and the commission. After some discussion the applicant was able to appreciate the historic value of the home, the commission was able to understand the applicants need and the architect was able to put together a plan that satisfied all. The front of the home was saved; windows in the demolished section will be reused as well as doors, hardware and other sections that have meaning to the applicant. Even though this may not have been in our charge, it was important to us to save as much as possible.

The Russell Garrison Deed has been registered and through the generous contributions from Wal-Mart, two signs on Elm St. and one at the site have been erected.

The Historic Dartmouth map has been completed and distributed. We have positive reaction from all and continue to distribute it to public places in the area.

Paul Levasseur has found the missing RR Sta. sign on Hixville Rd. and has taken the responsibility of having it put back in its proper place.

Craig Tjersland has taken an interest in preserving and using the original North Dartmouth Library currently located behind the closed No. Dartmouth Library. Craig talked to the Library Trustees about his ideas and in the end the trustees decided to table the matter because of the uncertainty of the town finances.

Barbara Faria has been re-hanging many of the photos in the commission room as well as in the hall outside the room. Take the time to come and see some of the old photos and then see if you have any at home that we can add to the collection.

An old cemetery (#844 in the Cemetery Book) on new Faunce Corner Rd. has been demolished. What looked like just an old stone wall was actually the enclosure to a small Mosher Cemetery with about six sites, and permission was given to knock the wall down.

72 Because of the error the cemeteries are being put in the town's GPS system and the assessor will make sure the cemeteries are designated with a cross when new maps are printed.

The commissions new project is the acceptance of Richard Casella's application to update the Form B's for property up to 1850. We were approved by town meeting to receive CPC funds to finance this project. Judy Lund worked with Mr. Cassala to decide how the project will progress. We are encouraged because he would like to use some students to help him, and we think getting young people involved in history is to the benefit of all. Judy will oversee this project.

Commission Members: Brock Cordeiro, Barbara Faria, Jean Larrivee, Paul Levasseur, Judy Lund, Chair, Robert Smith, Nancy Thornton, Craig Tjersland.

Community Preservation Committee

Community Preservation Act

The Town adopted the Community Preservation Act (“CPA”) in April, 2002, approving a 1.5% surcharge property tax surcharge that is also matched with funds from the State Department of Revenue. These funds can be spent in three areas: 1) Affordable Housing, 2) Historic Preservation, and 3) Open Space and Recreation. By statute, at least 10% of the funds must be designated for each of these three areas.

The amount of funds collected is certified to the State on June 30th of each year. On October 15th, the State pays matching funds from the Community Preservation Trust Fund to each municipality that has adopted the Community Preservation Act. The municipalities will receive between 5% and 100% of a match, depending on the balance available in the Trust Fund. These funds are not part of the general fund at either the State or Town level. They are held in segregated funds dedicated to projects or purposes under the Community Preservation Act.

Dartmouth Community Preservation Committee The Dartmouth Community Preservation Committee’s mission is to enhance Dartmouth’s unique character and quality of life by facilitating efforts to preserve historic places and structures, retain and protect open spaces, increase lands available for recreation, and seek creative solutions that meet the affordable housing needs of our residents.

The Community Preservation Committee (“CPC”) consists of nine members of which five are legislatively mandated representatives of other Town committees and four are citizen-at-large members appointed by the Select Board. For the 2007 fiscal year ending June 30, 2007, the CPC members were as follows: Howard “Buddy” Baker-Smith (Chairperson and At-Large member), Jacquelyn McDonald (Vice-Chairperson and Conservation Commission representative), William O’Connor (Housing Authority

73 Representative), Nancy Thornton (Historical Commission representative), John Sousa (Planning Board representative), John Costa (Board of Parks Commissioners representative), Michael Bachstein (At-Large member).

The role of the CPC is to make recommendations to Town Meeting about how CPA funds should be spent. The CPC solicits project proposals from individuals, organizations, and Town boards and committees. Proposals are reviewed according to established selection criteria and the public is invited to comment on projects at public hearings held by the committee. The final funding recommendations by the CPC are then presented to Town Meeting for approval.

Projects Funded in Fiscal Year 2007 The CPC sponsored two funding rounds in fiscal year 2007 and recommended a total of four projects to the Fall and Spring Town Meetings, totaling $302,600 in CPA funds. Town Meeting approved all of the projects for CPA funding as recommended by the CPC.

A. Recreation Comprehensive Recreation Plan and Feasibility Assessment [in progress]

Spring Town Meeting approved $35,000 to the Dartmouth Recreation Association to engage the necessary professional services to assess the Town’s recreational needs and resources, develop a master recreational growth plan, and conduct a preliminary feasibility study that will address the Town’s current and future unmet recreational needs.

Creation of Recreational Boating Access at Clark’s Cove [in progress]

The Fall Town Meeting approved $75,000 to the Dartmouth Waterways Commission to complete preliminary design and site work as part of the first phase of the Regional Waterways Public Access Project at Clark’s Cove that will create a new recreational boating access area on an unused parcel of land owned by the town.

B. Open Space

Ridge Hill Reserve Expansion Project [completed]

The Spring Town Meeting approved $150,000 to the Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust to acquire and preserve as natural open space 52 acres of forested upland and wetland habitats that are contiguous with other protected forestland known as the DNRT Ridge Hill Reserve.

C. Historic Preservation

Historic Preservation Commission Inventory of Historic Buildings [in progress]

74 The Spring Town Meeting approved $42,600 to the Dartmouth Historical Commission to engage qualified professional services to update the Historical Commission’s inventory of historic buildings in town built before 1851.

Community Investment As of December 31, 2007, more than $4.2 million in CPA funds have been invested in twenty-six community sponsored projects.

Dartmouth Cemetery Commission 2007 Annual Report

Manuel R. Morro, Chairperson Term Expires 2007 Cathy Costa Term Expires 2008

The Cemetery Commission of the Town of Dartmouth is charged with the management of the following town owned cemeteries. Evergreen Cemetery, located on Old Fall River Road, Pine Island Cemetery, located on Pine Island Road, and the Joseph Davis Cemetery, located on Faunce Corner Road.

Plots are available for sale to town residents for $400.00 per lot. Opening fees are: $450 for standard burial and $200.00 for cremation.

Residents should contact the Town Clerk’s Office for information regarding the purchase of burial plots.

Work has begun on clearing and cleaning out of the east side of Evergreen Cemetery.

During the year 2007 there were six (6) burials and only a handful of graves sold.

Respectfully submitted, Manuel R. Morro, Chairperson

DARTMOUTH PUBLIC LIBRARIES

ANNUAL TOWN REPORT

2007

BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES

Kathryn Murphy-Aisenberg, Chairman Term Expires 2008 Rachel Charrier, Vice Chairman Term Expires 2010 Andrew Couto Term Expires 2010 Hope Atkinson Term Expires 2008 Paul Pereira Term Expires 2009 Martha Munro (deceased) Term Expires 2009

LIBRARY STAFF

Denise Medeiros Director of Libraries Lynne Antunes Asst. Director of Libraries/Branch Librarian Sharani Robins Information Services Librarian Joanne Sousa Children’s Librarian Brian Walsh Information Services Librarian Audrey Quail Administrative Clerk/Computer Coordinator Joan-Marie Proulx Branch Associate Paula Sitarz Branch Associate Deborah Collins Pre-Professional Library Assistant Katherine Gomes Pre-Professional Library Assistant Ann-Margaret Neenan Pre-Professional Library Assistant Deborah Tripp Pre-Professional Library Assistant Juvenal Sousa Head Custodian Jerome Mello Maintenance Custodian

76 Tyler Gagné Page Urszula Mikolajczak Page George Ripley Page/Library Substitute Katie Surprenant Page/Library Substitute Sheri Torres Page/Library Substitute Marcia Beardsley Library Substitute Pauline Bowcock Library Substitute Shirley DaSilva Library Substitute Judith Lariviere Library Substitute Susan Hess Library Substitute Joan Foster Library Substitute Karley Spencer Library Substitute Dolores Tansey Library Substitute

DARTMOUTH PUBLIC LIBRARIES GENERAL INFORMATION

Southworth Library, 732 Dartmouth Street, is open 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday; on Friday and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Telephone 999-0726; FAX 992-9914 North Dartmouth Library, 1383 Tucker Road, Temporarily Closed Russells Mills Library, 1205 Russells Mills Road, Permanently Closed

CIRCULATION STATISTICS Fiscal Year 2007

ADULT CHILDREN TOTAL Books 90,303 73,307 163,610 Periodicals 10,384 391 10,775 Audio Cassettes, Compact Discs 14,747 2,841 17,588 Video Cassettes/DVD’s 37,196 19,753 56,949 Miscellaneous 505 58 563 Totals 153,135 96,350 249,485

Number of volumes held at end of reporting year 128,799 Number of subscriptions 213 Number of audio cassettes and compact discs held at end of report year 4,090 Number of video cassettes and DVD’s held at end of reporting year 5,850 Number of inter-network transfers (SAILS) 72,805 Number of public internet computers 21 Number of reference transactions 64,125 Number of children’s programs held 314

77 Total Attendance at all children’s programs 5,262 Total number of adult and YA programs 106 Total attendance at all adult and YA programs 1,974 Number of registered borrowers 20,512 Door counts for Southworth and North Dartmouth Branch 209,136

EXPENDITURES AND RECEIPTS

Fiscal Year 2007 Expenditures for Books, Periodicals, and Audio-Visual Materials $164,832 Money Received for Fines, Lost Books, Lost Cards and Photocopiers $16,193

BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES It has been a time of sadness for the Board of Library Trustees. In January of 2007, Ralph Schmarsow resigned from the Board of Library Trustees due to ill health. Ralph passed away May 25, 2007. Paul Pereira was appointed by the Trustees and the Select Board to complete the unexpired term. On December 18, 2007, current library trustee, Martha Munro, died suddenly from heart complications. Both Ralph and Martha will be deeply missed by the library community. STAFFING IN 2007 Library staffing remains far below adequate levels. Four staffers retired in 2007: Kathleen Whittaker, Branch Associate; Mary Collins, Judith Lariviere and Susan Hess, Pre-Professional Library Assistants. SUMMER READING PROGRAM “Catch the Beat’ @ the Dartmouth Public Libraries” was the theme of the 2007 Summer Reading Program. Approximately 400 participants attended the summer reading finale that included a cookout presented by the Ninety-Nine Restaurant & Pub. NEW CHILDREN’S AREA AT SOUTHWORTH Due to the downsizing and subsequent closure of the North Dartmouth Bran ch facility a new children’s area was opened in the lower level of the Southworth Library . It opened to the public on January 29, 2007. The staff has received many positive comme nts about the new use of space and business is booming. CHA-CHA-CHA-CHANGES! The Russells Mills Branch Library closed permanen tly in July of 2007 due to budget constraints. The North Dartmouth Branch closed temporarily from July 1- December 31 due to lack of funds. The circulation desk at the Southworth Library was replaced in July in order to consolidate staff to one service desk on the up per l ev el to help with staff reductions. A self-check out system was installed th is sp rin g allo wing p atrons to chec k out most of their own material and pick up and check out their own hold items. The auto- attendant on the telephone system has been activated due to staffing le vels. A l ibrary book drop was installed at Town Hall to try making things more convenient for patrons with the branch closings.

78 FRIENDS OF DARTMOUTH LIBRA RIES In 2007, the Friends group continued to provide the community with a variety of programs and activities. The Friends recently acquired a conta in er fro m Hand s Across the Wate r, an organization that sends books to needy communities across the nation. Any of the books that the Friends cannot use are packed up and donated to this g ro up fo r the benefi t o f others. The annual Art Film Series was well attended and well received. The Friends also held a pajama story time and an ice cream social featuring Showstoppers. Four book sales were held by the Friends in March, July, September and December. Throughout the year the Friends have continued to give their generous support to funding children’s programming and museum passes. Many thanks for all their time and hard work. DARTMOUTH LIBRARY FOUNDATION, INC. Early in 2007, the Library Foundation received its official 501(c) (3) status. A fundraiser in March, Murder at the Library, was attended by over 200 people who had a great time as they assisted in solving “the crime.” A rental collection of best-selling books and dvds has been established by the Foundation to help with the lack of funds in the book budget. A Bucks for Books campaign has raised over $18,000 to help supplement the Town appropriation and retain the library’s certification and reciprocal borrowing privileges statewide. The Foundation held its annual meeting in October. Dr. Robert Waxler, co-founder of the Changing Lives Through Literature Program, was the guest speaker.

Dartmouth Public Schools

SCHOOL DEPARTMENT REVENUE JULY 1, 2006-JUNE 30, 2007

Special School School General Revenue Athletic Lunch Fund Fund Fund Fund Totals

Fees 111,333 42,761 154,094

Charges for Services 1,005,010 1,005,010

Federal Revenue Thru State 1,364,715 231,665 1,596,380

Chaptr 70 9,149,719 9,149,719

School Construction - State 2,219,316 2,219,316 State Special Educ. Reimbursement 893,728 893,728 ("Circuit Breaker")

State Aid Other 811 25,495 19,364 45,670

Misc. Revenue 777 92,364 5,084 98,225

Interest Earned 6,432 6,432 Totals 11,370,623 2,487,635 42,761 1,267,555 15,168,574

THE SCHOOL DIRECTORY

SCHOOL COMMITTEE Term Members Expires Mr. John Nunes 2009 Ms. Judith Boles 2010 Mr. Christopher Pereira 2008 Ms. Joan Britto 2008 Mr. Shawn McDonald 2010

ORGANIZATION OF COMMITTEE

Chairperson...... Judith Boles Secretary……………………………Dr. Steve Russell

Regular meetings of the School Committee are usually held on the first and third Mondays of each month at 7:00 p.m. and are usually held in the High School Media Center, 555 Bakerville Road, N. Dartmouth

SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS Steve Russell, Ed.D.

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS Marylou Clarke

SCHOOL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR Manuel Cordeiro, Jr.

Office Telephone 508-997-3391

Secretary to the Superintendent Joan Boucher Finance Manager Jo-Ann Sylvia Bookkeeper/Payroll Dale Borges Accounts Payable/Payroll Laurie Wilkins Secretary to the Assistant Superintendent Andrea Smith Secretary to the School Business Administrator Delores Moniz Transportation Clerk/General Business Office Secretary Natalie Roderick Accounts Payable Mary Ann Bettencourt Receptionist Muriel Garcia Food Service Administrative Assistant Nancy Nowak

Office Hours 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

80 Monday through Friday 12 Months FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FISCAL YEAR 2007 July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007

SCHOOL APPROPRIATION $31,722,647.84 FY06 Certified Funds $140,620.21

Total Dollars Available $31,863,268.05

Expenditures: School Appropriation $31,374,071.39 FY06 Certified Funds $140,588.61 Total Expended 6/30/07 $31,514,660.00

Balance 6/30/07 $348,608.05

Less Certified Funds $207,954.62

Returned to Town 6/30/07 $140,653.43

STATE AID FISCAL YEAR 2007

Including unexpended funds and other reimbursements which were remitted to the Town and, in effect, reduced the Town's share of the Cost of Education:

State Aid: General - Chapter 70 $9,149,719.00 Pupil Trans. Ch. 71,71A,71B & 74 $0.00 Total State Aid $9,149,719.00 Unexpended Approp. Remitted to Town $0.00 Misc. Reimbursements & Fees $40,176.99 Grand Total: $9,189,895.99 FY05 Cost of Education $31,514,660.00

Town's Cost of Education $22,324,764.01

TOWN AGENCY ACCOUNTS

Student Book Agency Account - Middle School Balance 7/1/06 $4,718.78 Receipts through 6/30/07 $448.30 Total Available $5,167.08 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $0.00 Balance 6/30/07 $5,167.08

Student Book Agency Account - High Schoo l Balance 7/1/06 $1,891.82 Receipts through 6/30/07 $2,011.71 Total Available $3,903.53 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $0.00 Balance 6/30/07 $3,903.53

Student Book Agency Account - DeMello Scho ol Balance 7/1/06 $22.35 Receipts through 6/30/07 $0.00 Total Available $22.35 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $0.00 Balance 6/30/07 $22.35

Insurance Recovery Balance 7/1/06 $5,731.92 Receipts through 6/30/07 $6,466.78 Total Available $12,198.70 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $11,796.60 Balance 6/30/07 $402.10

Restitution Middle School Balance 7/1/06 $1,517.38 Receipts through 6/30/07 $0.00 Total Available $1,517.38 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $0.00 Balance 6/30/07 $1,517.38

Restitution High School Balance 7/1/06 $1,008.17 Receipts through 6/30/07 $0.00 Total Available $1,008.17

82 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $0.00 Balance 6/30/07 $1,008.17

FEDERAL GRANTS FISCAL YEAR 2007

Academic Support Services (632-140-7-007 2-H) Balance 07/01/06 $3,623.00 Receipt through 06/30/07 $3,622.00 Total Available $7,245.00 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $7,191.86 Balance 06/30/07 $53.14

Academic Support Services (632-173-6-007 2-G) Balance 07/01/06 $21.36 Receipt through 06/30/07 $0.00 Total Available $21.36 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $21.36 Balance 06/30/07 $0.00

Academic Support Services (632-132-5-007 2-F) Balance 07/01/06 $8.85 Receipt through 06/30/07 $0.00 Total Available $8.85 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $8.85 Balance 06/30/07 $0.00

Academic Support Services - (625-054-7-00 72-H) Balance 07/01/06 $3,877.00 Receipt through 06/30/07 $3,877.00 Total Available $7,754.00 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $7,749.27 Balance 06/30/07 $4.73

Community Partnership Balance 7/1/06 $1,984.49 Receipts through 6/30/07 $0.00 Total Available $1,984.49 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $0.00 Balance 6/30/07 $1,984.49

Community Partnership-FY07 Balance 7/1/06 $0.00

83 Receipts through 6/30/07 $23,418.00 Total Available $23,418.00 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $23,418.00 Balance 6/30/07 $0.00 Drug Free FY07 (331-065-7-0072-H) Balance 07/01/2006 $7,777.00 Receipts through 6/30/07 $0.00 Total Available $7,777.00 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $178.45 Balance 6/30/07 $7,598.55

Drug Free FY06 (331-029-6-0072-G) Balance 07/01/2006 $8,446.97 Receipts through 6/30/07 $0.00 Total Available $8,446.97 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $8,446.97 Balance 6/30/07 $0.00

Enhance Education Through Tech (160-083-7 -0072-H) Receipts through 6/30/07 $3,071.00 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $3,071.00 Balance 6/30/07 $0.00

New Directions FY06 (Summer) Receipts through 6/30/07 $26,503.00 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $18,669.04 Balance 06/30/07 $7,833.96

New Directions FY05(Summer) Receipts through 6/30/07 $14,789.58 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $14,789.58 Balance 06/30/07 $0.00

Sped - Circuit Breaker Receipts through 6/30/07 $893,954.20 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $858,550.90 Balance 06/30/07 $35,403.30

Sped 94-142 Allocation (FY06) Balance 7/01/06 $45,580.19 Receipts through 06/30/07 $0.00 Total Available $45,580.19 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $45,580.19

84 Balance 6/30/07 $0.00

Sped 94-142 Allocation (FY07) Balance 7/01/06 $0.00 Receipts through 6/30/07 $945,101.00 Total Available $945,101.00 Expenditures throuth 6/30/07 $889,705.20 Balance 6/30/07 $55,395.80

Sped Early Childhood Allocation (262-Dartm outhPUPay107) Receipts through 06/30/07 $18,523.00 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $17,132.10 Balance 6/30/07 $1,390.90

Sped Early Childhood Allocation - 262 Receipts through 06/30/07 $1,713.00 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $1,713.00 Balance 6/30/07 $0.00

Sped - Electronic Portfolio Receipts through 06/30/07 $1,500.00 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $1,500.00 Balance 6/30/07 $0.00

Sped Professional Dev. FY06 (274-173-7-0072-H) Receipts through 06/30/07 $23,684.00 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $27,432.37 Balance 6/30/07 -$3,748.37

Sped Professional Dev. FY06 (274-060-6-0072-G) Receipts through 06/30/07 $11,923.45 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $11,923.45 Balance 6/30/07 $0.00

Sped - Technology - FY06 Receipts through 06/30/07 $0.95 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $0.95 Balance 6/30/07 $0.00

Sped - Corrective Action - FY06 (#252-050-6- 0072-G

85 Receipts through 06/30/07 $8,400.00 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $8,400.00 Balance 6/30/07 $0.00 Sped Mental Health - FY06 (#216-064-0072-G) Receipts through 06/30/07 $24,438.46 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $24,438.46 Balance 6/30/07 $0.00

Teacher Quality (140-215-6-0072-G) Balance 7/01/06 -$2,844.08 Receipts through 06/30/07 $50,736.00 Total Available $47,891.92 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $47,891.92 Balance 06/30/07 $0.00

Teacher Quality (140-199-7-0072-H) Balance 7/01/06 $25,099.00 Receipts through 06/30/07 $25,099.00 Total Available $50,198.00 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $72,503.92 Balance 06/30/07 -$22,305.92

Title I (305-146-6-0072-G) Balance 7/01/06 $11,307.34 Receipts through 06/30/07 $0.00 Total Available $11,307.34 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $11,307.34 Balance 06/30/07 $0.00

Title I (305-054-7-0072-H) Balance 7/01/06 $0.00 Receipts through 06/30/07 $204,667.00 Total Available $204,667.00 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $201,816.16 Balance 06/30/07 $2,850.84

Title V (302-083-6-0072-G) Receipts through 06/30/07 $1,315.21 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $1,315.21 Balance 06/30/07 $0.00

Title V (302-184-7-0072-H) Balance 7/01/06 $3,088.00 Receipts through 06/30/07 $0.00 Total Available $3,088.00 Expenditures through 06/30/07 $2,783.00 Balance 06/30/07 $305.00

TRUST FUNDS FISCA L YEAR 2007

Potter Fund "To be used to promote music in the Dartmouth Public Schools" At the discretion of the School Committee

Principal $10,000.00

Interest Balance $4,839.63 Interest Income through 6/30/07 $421.32 Total Available $5,260.95 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $0.00 Balance 6/30/07 $5,260.95

Crapo Fund "To be used for the benefit of public schools and children atte nding pu blic schools" At the discretion of the Board of Selectmen

Principal $2,000.00

Interest Balance $7,357.36 Interest Income through 6/30/07 $265.66 Total Available $7,623.02 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $0.00 Balance 6/30/07 $7,623.02

Dartmouth Scholarship Trust Fund To be used for student scholarship a wards and for faculty performan ce awards - Under the administration of the Superintendent of Schools – Both as prescribed in the Trust documentation

Principal $111,500.00

Interest Balance $7,298.46 Receipts through 06/30/07 $0.00 Total Available $7,298.46 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $0.00 Balance 6/30/07 $7,298.46

Dartmouth Enrichment Fund Interest & Gift Income through $76,594.67 Receipts through 06/30/07 $2,153.01 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $10,931.40 Balance 6/30/07 $67,816.28

REVOLVING ACCOUNTS FISCAL YEAR 2007

School Department Gift Account Balance 07/01/06 $34,047.79 Receipts through 6/30/07 $41,326.81 Total Available 6/30/07 $75,374.60 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $40,619.86 Balance 6/30/07 $34,754.74

High School Athletic Account Balance 7/1/06 $36,734.54 Receipts through 6/30/07 $36,963.00 Total Available 6/30/07 $73,697.54 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $51,355.76 Balance 6/30/07 $22,341.78

High School Stadium Concession Account Balance 7/1/06 $1,039.75 Receipts through 6/30/07 $5,798.05 Total Available 6/30/07 $6,837.80 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $5,259.32 Balance 6/30/07 $1,578.48

Student Enrichment Revolving Fund Balance 7/1/06 $82,414.78 Receipts through 6/30/07 $70,589.00 Total Available 6/30/07 $153,003.78 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $83,252.72 Balance 6/30/07 $69,751.06

Middle Pre-School Program Balance 7/1/06 $1,944.69 Receipts through 6/30/07 $58,095.00 Total Available 6/30/07 $60,039.69 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $59,988.31 Balance 6/30/07 $51.38

Potter Pre-School Gift Account Balance 7/1/06 $712.27 Receipts through 6/30/07 $0.00 Total Available 6/30/07 $712.27 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $0.00 Balance 6/30/07 $712.27

Town Tax Gift Account Balance 7/1/06 $1,985.25 Receipts through 6/30/07 $1,328.74 Total Available 6/30/07 $3,313.99 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $0.00 Balance 6/30/07 $3,313.99

Chapter 76 & 75 State Wards Balance 7/1/06 $593.65 Receipts through 6/30/07 $0.00 Total Available 6/30/07 $593.65 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $593.65 Balance 6/30/07 $0.00

School Cafeteria Revolving Account Balance 7/1/06 $40,431.77 Receipts through 6/30/07 $1,268,434.46 Total Available 6/30/07 $1,308,866.23 Expenditures through 6/30/07 $1,277,979.78 Balance 6/30/07 $30,886.45

90 Dartmouth Public Schools 2007 Annual Report

It is again an honor and a privilege for me to submit the annual 2007 report for the Dartmouth Public Schools. This is my fifth annual report as your Superintendent of Schools and the one hundred and fifteenth such report to be preserved in the town records.

This report has been developed through the written contributions of all of the school district’s administrators. It is intended to document the challenges and accomplishments of Dartmouth’s schools, our staff, and students during the past year – (January-December, 2007).

When I reflect upon 2007 and the portions of the two “school years” that have taken place during that time, I am reminded of a quote taken from Charles Dickens in A Tale of Two Cities, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…,”. Here within the Dartmouth Schools we experienced both! In 2007: • The Dartmouth Schools bid “goodbye” to Middle School Principal Stephen Pettey after 34 years of service and Quinn School Principal Dr. Carol Karafotis after 38 years of service. Both administrators contributed a great deal to the “Quality of Learning for All” that we strive for daily. • Manuel Cabral, former Assistant Principal at Dartmouth High School, was appointed as the Principal of Dartmouth Middle School. • Work continued on the system-wide initiatives that are underway. The Building & Renovation Committee began individual assessments of each school facility utilizing the Massachusetts School Building Authority Educational Program Space Standards & Guidelines. The Dartmouth Education Foundation, through our association with the Community Foundation of Southeastern MA, has begun both their endowment and “student safety net” fundraising initiatives. And, the second phase of improvements to the Dartmouth Veterans Memorial Stadium was concluded with the installation of a new sound system provided through the generous donations of many citizens and community groups. • Successful audits (2) of the special education “circuit breaker” accounts and the Comprehensive Annual and End of the Year Financial Reports were completed by Hague, Sahady & Co., P.C. resulting in sound reports on the schools’ financial management. • Dartmouth parents, citizens, community businesses and the school staff worked together to hold the DHS After Prom Party for the 14th year in a row! This community-wide effort provided graduating seniors with a healthy means to celebrate the completion of their high school careers. • Two hundred and eighty-six (286) members of the Class of 2007 received their high school diplomas on June 10th in the Dartmouth High School Gymnasium. Carrie Holstrom’s receipt of her diploma after living through her traumatic injuries and recovery scored as an inspiration to us all.

91 • Limitations on available funds and the resulting budgetary impact were felt by students and adults throughout the system (and town). A total of one hundred and nine “pink slips” were distributed in April notifying staff of the possibility of the discontinuation of their employment for the school year ahead. The school system experienced a shortfall of over $248,000 in our utilities accounts resulting in a mid-year “freeze” on non-critical expenditures and the need for and receipt of additional funding in June from town reserves and the Finance Committee. Actual system-wide reductions in administrative, teaching, and support positions followed with the conclusion of the school year. The School Committee also faced the very difficult challenge of closing buildings or not rehiring many of the staff members who received “pink slips”. This resulted in the closing of the Cushman and Gidley Schools, a decision that became finalized with the failure of a Proposition 2-1/2 override initiative on July 31st. • The Dartmouth Public Schools re-opened on September 5th with over 4000 students entering the high school, middle school, and one of three K-5 elementary schools. The Quinn School enrollment exceeded 1,000 students. A system of fees for bus transportation, student parking, athletics, music, and other student activities was also implemented at Dartmouth High School. • During the fall of 2007, despite the many challenges that they faced, our students continued to excel both in and outside of their classrooms. Several (of many) examples included the success of the DHS Band in winning the Division 5 USSBA Northern States Championship, the DHS Soccer and Football Teams winning the Old Colony League Championships, and the DHS Football Team’s participation (and play) in the Eastern Massachusetts Division I Super bowl. This was a contest held at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro on a very cold day that we will all remember!

And while the ‘Life of our schools” continues, nobody accomplishes anything of great or lasting value by themselves. We want to publicly thank and recognize those members of the staff who have retired during the past year. They include: Dartmouth High School: Robert Kocur, Richard Silvia, Sheila Koot, School Nurse

Mary Beth Collins, and Security Monitor James Lancaster

Dartmouth Middle School: Principal Stephen Pettey and Deborah McMahon Cushman School: Alice Huff DeMello School: Gay Encarnacao, Kathryn Gifford, and Patricia Severs Gidley School: Judith Lederman-Lechan

Quinn School: Dr. Carol Karafotis, Principal

Potter School: Linda Johnson

While these people have moved onto other endeavors, their contributions will live on in the young people of the community.

92 On September 5th we also welcomed new teachers to our staff who replaced those who retired or found jobs elsewhere. At Dartmouth High School they included: Assistant Principal Loretta Patterson, Meghan Rogers, Laurie Chiarito, Jeanne Flight, Jean DeSouto, Estella delaCruz, Linda Gold, Everett Tatelbaum, and Eric Silva At Dartmouth Middle School our new teachers included: Carolyn Wingate, Pamela Glass, Karen McDaid, Bethany Gendreau, Brian Amado, and Julie Barcelos Dartmouth’s elementary schools also welcomed the following new members of the staff: Amy Pacheco, Nichole Daniel, Melissa Pickering, Maureen Mantzavinos, Tammy Piazza, Diane Maynard, Carole Myatt, Lindsay Allen, Catherine Claassen, Tracy Oliveira, and Erin Gomes.

School Committee Judith Boles, Chairperson Shawn McDonald, Vice Chairperson John Nunes Joan Britto Christopher Pereira

Christopher Pereira served as School Committee Chairperson during the Winter and Spring. Judith Boles served as Vice Chairperson. In April, Ms. Boles was re-elected to the School Committee and became Chairperson. Committee member Shawn McDonald served as Vice Chairperson. Nicole Oliveira served as student representative to the Committee during the Spring semester and Anthony Carrancho served as student representative during the Fall semester. All of these people deserve our special thanks for the individual and collective efforts that they have made in support of Dartmouth’s young people - everyday!

During my five years as Superintendent, I have learned about what makes Dartmouth special - and it’s the people! My thanks go to everyone involved in supporting our shared efforts regardless of your role in or outside of the organization. I encourage you to read more about our staff’s efforts and our students’ accomplishments in the pages that follow.

Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment Marylou Clarke, Assistant Superintendent

I would like to share a few quotations that characterize the critical task of public education today:

“We live in a rapidly shifting era in which economic opportunities and challenges abound. Educating our citizenry to participate and succeed in a globally interconnected world must start in all our schools. The challenges involve forces that transcend national boundaries”. Global Education in Massachusetts Schools—The Case for Urgency by the Global Education Advisory Council of the Massachusetts Initiative for International Studies

93 “This is a world in which a very high level of preparation in reading, writing, speaking, mathematics, science, literature, history, and the arts will be an indispensable foundation for everything that comes after for most members of the workforce.” Tough Choices or Tough Times: The Report of the New Commission on “The Skills of the American Workforce”, National Center on Education and the Economy This is the context for the twenty-first century skills and expectations which have become the norm for the workplace which Dartmouth graduates will enter.

Electronic connectivity and portability of work unite all economies in this current and growing “global economy”. Current workplace expectations include:

• critical and creative problem-solving skills, including the ability to deal with ambiguity • strong skills in languag e , math ematics, and science • proficiency in at least one additional language • strong technological skills • strong work ethic • understanding of the United States in the world context (Global Education: A Call to Action--A Position Paper of the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents)

There are some action steps that we can take within our existing curriculum and programs to prepare our students. However, additional steps will lead to significant change, and will require a strong partnership with business and community leaders. For example, Dartmouth participates in the Southcoast Education Compact. The Compact is composed of regional business leaders and school district leaders, facilitated by the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth. In November, the Center for University and School Partnerships (CUSP) at the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth took an important step in promoting an understanding the need for advancing global education. CUSP invited Dr. Bruce Fuchs, Director of Science Education at the National Institutes of Health to the region to address education, business and political leaders. In his address, “Charting a Course for Science and Math Education: A Community Conversation”, Dr. Fuchs shared the compelling evidence that United States graduates are competing in the international workplace with graduates from countries with increasingly sophisticated economies such as China and India. He reinforced the need for interesting students even in the earlier grades to pursue work in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. In fact, in order to promote dialogue, education and progress in this area, the Dartmouth Schools are taking active steps. Dr. Fuchs and members of his staff will return to Dartmouth Public Schools in January 2008 to participate in professional development activities with our staff.

We value our post-secondary collaborations with both University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth and Bristol Community College. Most importantly, numerous examples clearly demonstrate that the Dartmouth Public Schools is the beneficiary of resources in both “services and dollars to our students and teachers” through this participation that

94 expands the services beyond our capacity as a school district to provide.

Dartmouth also continues to participate in a regional collaboration at the University of Massachusetts Center for Community and School Partnerships (CUSP), entitled Leading for Learning. The program was developed in response to the alarming issue of the shortage of qualified school principals to fill an increasing number of vacancies. Three Dartmouth teachers completed their administrative practicum in the program this year and one Dartmouth teacher has joined the second training session.

Also, through the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth, our district enjoys a relationship with the James J. Kaput Center for Research and Innovation in Mathematics. Named after the late James Kaput, a UMass Professor and Dartmouth resident, the Center is now under the direction of Dr. Stephen Hegedus, also a Dartmouth resident. The Center engages in international research projects that focus on how students learn mathematics. This ranges from instruction related to the concepts of Early Algebra to Calculus, and the use of interactive technology and its impact on mathematical experience. In some cases, our classrooms serve as research sites. Our teachers also receive training as a function of our participation, and our schools receive valuable classroom resources in the form of software and related technology. Dartmouth continues its participation with other Southcoast member districts in the federal Teaching American History Grant through Bristol Community College. The College has recently been awarded a remarkable fourth federal grant, Writing and History, based on the well documented research that “since history is a written understanding of our nation’s past, understanding history depends on understanding writing.” Students, who can write about history, clearly understand it better. Through this project, Dartmouth teachers are again participating in courses that represent thousands of professional development dollars and continue to improve their knowledge. In short, our regional college and university frequently outreach to the public schools with positive results. They are valued educational neighbors!

Dartmouth schools also enjoy a mutual and growing collaboration with the Dartmouth YMCA. The YMCA has a successful Share the Harvest project, where Dartmouth students and their families volunteer. The YMCA also provides after school programming on a fee for service basis at its Gulf Road site as well as at the Potter School. Our goal is to seek grant funding intended to increase access to these experiences at the elementary and middle level for more children. The evidence is compelling that strong after school programs contribute to gains in student achievement.

Grant Funding: Dartmouth continues to receive $1.5 million annually in grant funding in the areas of Special Education, Teacher Quality, Academic Support, Safe and Drug Free Schools, and Title One (a federal reading grant program). Dartmouth High School earned the distinction of being one of two successful applicants in the Commonwealth for a five-year Smaller Learning Communities Grant through the United States Department of Education. The annual grant award is $250,000. These funds are required to be used to support programs within Dartmouth High School designed to increase the number of graduates

95 who are college-ready. This program includes introducing a Freshman Academy program. Research documents that one of the strongest indicators of successful high school completion is a positive freshman-year experience. The total grant award for this five (5) year program will equal over $1.2 million.

School Data:

Data is a valuable tool used to increase student progress and in a district-wide effort to view trends suggested by important data points, Dartmouth continues to report on these “multiple measures”, considered valuable to decision-making.

Low Income Students:

% District % State 03-04 04-05 06-07 03-04 04-05 06-07 9.6 10.2 12.4 27.2 27.7 28.9

Student Services:

Special Education: (compared to statewide average)

% District % State 03-04 04-05 06-07 03-04 04-05 06-07 14.0 14.3 15.1 15.6 15.9 15.9

Student Accommodation Plans (for the 2007 -2008 school year):

Grades # Accommodation Plans Grades K-5 28 Grades 6-8 28 Grades 9-12 26

Out-of-District Special Education Placements: 31 students in day placements; 9 residential students (January 1 – December 30)

Approved Home Education Plans:

05-06 06-07 07-08 22 Dartmouth students 16 Dartmouth students 20 Dartmouth students in 16 families in 11 families in 15 families

Teacher Data:

% District % State 03-04 04-05 06-07 03-04 04-05 06-07

96 % Teachers Licensed 97.6 99.2 98.0 93.9 93.9 95.4 in Teaching Assignment % of Core Academic 97.5 99.5 98.5 93.9 93.0 95.1 Teachers Identified as Highly Qualified

Student Attendance Data:

% District % State 03-04 04-05 06-07 03-04 04-05 06-07 Attendance Rate 95.5 95.6 95.8 93.9 94.1 94.6 Average # of days 7.8 7.7 7.2 10.2 10.8 9.3 absent

Drop Out Rate (2 005-2006):

% District % State 1.4 3.3

Post Secondary Plans of Graduates (2005-06)

% District % State 4-Year Private College 29 31 4-Year Public College 32 27 2-Year Private College 1 2 2-Year Public College 17 19 Other Post Secondary 0 3 Employment 10 10 Military 1 2 Other 2 1 Unknown 7 7

Testing:

MCAS Test Results- Spring 2007 Percent of Students at Each Performance Level And CPI (Composite Performance Index)

(Key: State CPI for English Language Arts- 85.4; State CPI for Mathematics- 76.5) CPI is a measure of student performance relative to attaining 100 % proficiency, the goal of No Child Left Behind for ever y student in the Com monweal th by 2014. (Ref: MA Department of Education)

Grade and Advanced/ Proficient Needs Warning/ Students CPI Subject Above Improvement Failing Included Proficient District State District State District Stat e District S tate GRADE 03 – 12 14 50 45 34 32 5 9 330 86.1

READING GR ADE 03 – 17 19 50 41 28 24 5 16 330 87.0

MATHEMATICS GRADE 04 – 3 10 53 46 35 34 8 10 324 82.1 ENGLISH LANGUAGE

ARTS GRADE 04 – 23 19 38 29 33 39 5 13 325 85.3

MATHEMATICS GRADE 05 – 12 15 60 48 26 28 3 9 355 90.6 ENGLISH LANGUAGE

ARTS GRADE 05 – 18 19 42 32 31 31 10 18 354 82.5

MATHEMATICS GRADE 05 – 15 14 47 37 32 37 5 12 354 86.2 SCIENCE AND

TECHNOLOGY GRADE 06 – 2 9 66 58 29 25 3 7 333 88.7 ENGLISH LANGUAGE

ARTS GRADE 06 – 17 20 35 32 33 28 15 20 333 77.0

MATHEMATICS GRADE 07 – 5 9 62 60 27 23 5 8 365 87.9 ENGLISH LANGUAGE

ARTS GRADE 07 – 17 15 33 31 31 30 19 24 363 74.9

MATHEMATICS

98 GRADE 08 – 9 12 68 63 20 18 3 6 332 91.8 ENGLISH LANGUAGE

ARTS GRADE 08 – 18 17 34 28 33 30 16 25 334 76.1

MATHEMATICS GRADE 08 – 1 3 35 30 48 44 16 24 334 71.0 SCIENCE AND

TECHNOLOGY GRADE 10 – 20 22 56 49 22 24 2 6 320 91.0 ENGLISH LANGUAGE

ARTS GRADE 10 – 47 42 28 27 21 22 5 9 315 88.9

MATHEMATICS Data Last Updated on October 3, 2007

Under the Federal No Child Left Behind Act, the MCAS scores reported above are included in Massachuse tts Depa rtment of Education ca lculatio ns and used to determin e our required Adequate Yearly Progress. While Dartmouth’s overall No Child Left Behind Accountability Status Performance Rating is High in both English Language Arts and Mathematics, there are some trends of concern. For the district, the subgroup of low income students in Grad es 3-5 d id not meet Ad equate Yearly Progres s in En glish Language Arts and the s ubgrou p of Spe cial Education student s did not meet Adequat e Yearly progress in Grades 6-8. Two of three elementary schools also did not meet Adequate Yearly Progre ss in Re ading i n the A ggregat e (a com posite score of all stude nts). School and district efforts are focused on these trends. This data also supports the urgency for the need for replacing our core literacy program for Grades PreK-5, as our current program is no longer published.

Professional Development: Dartmouth continues to creatively fund and plan a robust professional development program. In January, all instructio nal personnel p articipa ted in a wide range of worksh ops held on the annual Intersession Day. Elementary staff rotated through a series of teacher-led, grade-level workshops on the t opics of Math and Engl ish Lan guage Arts cur riculum, the use of an MCAS softw are program entitled NCS mentor, and approaches to writing high level “open response” questions that students encounter on the MCAS. The middle school faculty met on the “use of data to inform classroom instruction” to better meet student needs.

99 We continued our progr am desi gned to support new teachers entitled Projec t TIME (Teacher Induction and Mentoring Experience). This year, there were some significant improvements to the program. Dr. Jana McHenry, Literacy Specialist at Quinn School, the author of two professional books on the topic of mentoring new teachers into the profession, has assumed the responsibility of facilitating the new teacher induction program. New mentors have be en recr uited and traine d and a mentor handbo ok is un der development.

Professional development remains continuous in response to changes in faculty as well as advances in teaching approaches. In order for our teachers to remain current in the area of mathematics, PreK-Grad e 8 teachers participated in a series of mathe matics workshops presented by Guy Roy, a forme r Mathe matics Coordinator from a neighbori ng distric t. He specifically designed workshops based upon the needs of each school and grade level focus upon our own MCAS testing results. Dartmouth hosted a graduate level course through Fitchburg State College entitled, Studying Obstacles to St udent A chievem ent, taught by Ned Pa ulson. Staff st udied how to best utilize data to inform instruction. Twenty (20) faculty members were enrolled in this course.

Our teachers are continuing to work on establishing a foundation for shared Professional Learning Communities. This approach provides for an organized collaborative discussion on specific student achievement issues that stimulate collective inquiry on a topic. Professional Learning Communities serve as a powerful school improvement tool. This approach benefits students and leads to concrete academic gains, reduced drop-out rates, and lower rates of absenteeism. (Education Research Service, On the Same Page) Another opportunity for regional collaboration occurred through the Summer Administrators’ Institute hosted by Wareham Public Schools. This Institute was entitled “Leadership for Effective Instruction--What Does It Mean To Be A ‘Change Leader’”. It was led by Tony Wagner of the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

In closing, our schools have continued to maintain a remarkable standard of effort during the past school year considering budget reductions that have led to restructuring and staff reductions that have impacted each level, from elementary through high school as well as impacting our capacity at the district level. Decreasing resources, despite the use of prudent and well-intentioned cost-saving economies eventually impacts progress and results in unintended yet negative consequences. Our goal has been to lessen the impact on student achievement resulting from declining resources whether it is in the form of staffing, facilities, student programs, text and technology materials. The challenge is maintaining the highest quality of student achievement in each grade for each year of a student’s school experience. However, we remain concerned that compromising a child’s school experience does have an ultimate and negative collective impact on our community.

The Massachusetts Department of Education issued a Preliminary Report on Current Fiscal Conditions in Massachusetts School Districts (1/08). In its summary and key findings, it states “The Commonwealth has moved steadily to increase expectations on

100 school districts, teachers, and students to meet the demands of a global economy.” However, as “academic expectations and challenges have risen, spending on instructional services has not kept pace.” The need, however, remains and our work continues. Creating a quality educational experience for all Dartmouth students, our shared responsibility as a community, is in fact “the soul of a society as it passes from one generation to another.” Gilbert K. Chesterton

Facilities & Finance Manuel Cordeiro, Jr., School Business Administrator

FY07 financially has been a very difficult year, leaving the school department with limited resources to provide quality education to our children. Informational meetings with our administrators were held to discuss program budget requests. Open forum meetings were also held at the various schools with parents and concerned citizens. These meetings allowed administrators to share information and prioritize requests for the FY08 budget, while considering the financial limitations that the town is presently dealing with. A district-wide community PTO meeting was organized by the parents and held at the Cushman School. A panel of town representatives answered questions concerning the issues confronting our schools and town departments. The school department’s itemized budget was made available to the community on our web site: WWW.Dartmouth.12.MA.US. Additional financial and statistical education data has also been made available to our community through our website. These efforts are intended to make our school department finances transparent and easily accessible to the public.

The School Building and Renovation Committee has been meeting during the fiscal year. The committee has toured all our facilities in our school system. The charge of the committee is “to investigate the need and feasibility of building a new school and/or renovating the existing school facilities in the Town of Dartmouth”. Due to the financial deficit that the town of Dartmouth is currently dealing with, the committee has focused its efforts on assessing our facilities, studying methods of projecting the impact of future student enrollment, and the effect it will have on our school facilities. A five-year Capital Improvement Plan was presented and endorsed by the School Committee. However, the schools’ annual presentation to the Capital Improvement Planning committee was not scheduled due to the decision to limit borrowing for capital improvement projects town wide. The Finance Committee did approve funding for the replacement of the last two underground oil tanks at two school sites. The projects were completed during the summer recess of 07. A project to retrofit obsolete electrical panels at our schools sites was also approved for funding. This project is currently in progress. Our FY08 school budget was level-funded at the town meeting despite the need to address a $2 million increase in fixed costs. A Proposition 2-1/2 override was organized by the town. The request for an override caused division amongst the people in our community. The override failed. As a result, many cost-saving initiatives were utilized. The school department closed two elementary schools and transferred the students and staff to the Quinn Elementary School. The enrollment of this school increased by approximately 500 students resulting in an elementary school of over 1,000 students. This transition was

101 completed in less than one month. The Quinn School is academically running, despite the remaining logistical issues that could not be remedied in the short time available.

When compared with the other municipalities in the Commonwealth and on the most current statistics, Dartmouth’s per pupil expenditure is $8,791 as compared to the State average of $11,210. Dartmouth ranks 31 from the bottom of the list out of 328 reporting districts in per pupil expenditures (or in the bottom 9%). These statistics are consistent with many other measures of funding support in which Dartmouth remains in the bottom third in comparative funding levels.

Currently we are operating with two fewer buildings, we have reduced our support, teaching and administrative staff and are assessing high school student fees for participating in sports, activities, transportation, and parking. All of these funds are being used to offset the $2,000,000 FY08 school budget shortfall. The administration is meeting to develop a proposal or proposals, which may be in the form of an override for April of 08. If successful, the school system would return to its status quo with additional funding to support academic initiatives that will begin to return the Dartmouth School System to the level of excellence that it once attained. If the override is not successful, our system will continue to decline in quality as continuing sacrifices will be required in the face of the continuing rise in our fixed operational costs. These challenges make it difficult to attain our mission statement of “Quality of Learning for All”.

Pupil Support Services Linda Maniglia, Pupil Support Services Administrator

Fiscal Year 2007 was a busy and challenging year for all! Yet, in spite of the challenges we have faced, all of the Special Education Department experienced numerous accomplishments.

One of the most important responsibilities of the SPED Department is to comply with state and federal regulations including adherence to time lines. We continually review existing district policies and procedures and strive to improve or refine them. I am pleased to say that hiring in-district psychologists for the Middle School and High School has proved effective in maintaining such compliances. Bush Street secretaries and Sped Director have developed and implemented tracking systems to streamline the IEP process. We’ve organized and scrutinized student record files to ensure that mandated forms are completed and are coming into full compliance in these areas.

Lines of communication amongst the Department and the district are kept open through regular e-mail communication, memos, and individual monthly meetings held with elementary, middle school and high school staff, related service providers, psychologists, and administrators.

The Department of Education conducted a Comprehensive Coordinated Program Review in May of 2005. In May 2008, the Department of Education will return to conduct a Mid-

102 Cycle Review. At this time they will again examine student files and district policies and procedures to ensure compliance. In both May and October 2007, the district underwent a MA Department of Education circuit breaker funding audit. We fared favorably. Dartmouth was also a participant in the state monitoring cohort study for high school transition plans and timelines, and we participated in a study to determine the effectiveness for state pre-school programs, all with positive results. As a district, we continue to analyze, expand, and refine our professional knowledge and skills through on-going professional development, course work, conferences and workshops. • Administrators have participated in series of legal workshops presented by our Special Education District Attorney, Catherine Lyons from the law firm, Nuttell & Sullivan. In addition, we continue to work collaboratively to fine tune Building Based Support TEAM forms and procedures, which are used district wide to identify “at risk” students. Under the direction of Dr. Adam Feinberg, we’ve continued our training in “Response to Intervention” (RTI), an approach that utilizes universal screening (DIBELS) progress monitoring (data-guided decision making), effective interventions (evidence-based practices) and systems support for accurate and sustained implementation (core, strategies, intensive). • Psychologist attended “Job Alike” meetings at READS Collaborative, various workshops on Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA) and Response to Intervention (RTI) training. They also participate in many legal workshops. • Occupational Therapists hosted a “Job Alike” networking meeting for Occupational Therapists in surrounding districts. They also have participated in legal workshops as well as a Sensory Integration Processing Training (SIPS) institute workshops offered through the Department of Education (DOE), SCERTS Training conducted by Dr. Barry Prizant and Assistive Technology training. • Speech and Language Pathologist participated in legal workshops, assistive technology training, SCERTS training with Dr. Barry Prizant and they attended the ASHA Conference which took place in Boston. • Special Education staff are participating in various graduate programs academic course work, restraint training, assistive technology, Inclusion workshops, Wilson Reading, SCERTS training by Dr. Barry Prizant, and academic assessment protocol training. • Nancy Lally, Assistant Principal at DeMello, Lorraine Granda, Co-Principal at Quinn and the SPED Director have attended Early Intervention (EI) meetings at the Stone School in Fall River with other surrounding district administrators. Procedures and policies were reviewed and district forms are shared. Nancy Lally and Linda Maniglia attended an institute through DOE on program evaluations. • The SPED Director attended legal workshops, DOE regional meetings, ASE Conferences, LRP Conferences, participated in Response to Intervention trainings, FBA training, SCERTS training, and Job Alike meetings with surrounding district Directors, all in an effort to remain current and up-to-date on special education laws, programs, and strategies.

103 Our Special Education Summer School Program took place under the direction of Nance Belizzi. It was held at the DeMello Elementary School. The program ran for five weeks, Monday through Thursday, 8:30-12:30. The program provided students with a nice balance of academics, related services, and opportunities for socialization. Once again, the high school summer camps were available to students. Dartmouth Middle School and High School students volunteered their time as “Learning Partners” for students enrolled in the program. A questionnaire sent to parents, yielded very positive responses about the program. A full day pre-school program was developed to effectively meet the needs of a pre- schooler with multiple disabilities, as well a high school autism class designed to address the needs of eighth graders transitioning to the high school. The Special Education Department welcomed the following new staff into the department: Amy Pacheco – ASD K-2 Quinn Brian Amado – Middle School Tutorial Linda Gold – ASD High School Julie Barcelos – Speech Pathologist – Middle School Beth Eaton –Teacher of Visually Impaired Thomas O’Shaunessey – Mobility Specialist Donna LaMontagne – Secondary School Secretary – Bush Street Karen Morrisseau – Administrative Secretary – Bush Street Nancy Lally – Early Intervention Coordinator Lisa Moore – Teaching Assistant

Health, Physical Education, and Athletics Thomas McDermott, Director

The philosophy of athletics at Dartmouth High School is to teach our student-athletes the proper values that can be derived from competing in an interscholastic competition. These include patience, courage, integrity, and inner strength. Our athletic programs also teach students how to handle victory in an appropriate manner and to cope with the adversity when unsuccessful. We also work to develop an awareness of teamwork, sportsmanship, and unselfishness. All are goals of all of our interscholastic teams. Dartmouth High School is a member of the Old Colony League (OCL); nineteen of our 24 sports programs compete as a member of the OCL against Attleboro High School Barnstable High School, Bridgewater – Raynham Regional High School, and Taunton High School. In 2007, Dartmouth High School Athletics offered 24 different programs. Twenty-two out of 24 of these programs allowed students to compete at the interscholastic level. Nineteen of these sports teams competed in the Old Colony League, one as a member of the New England Schools Sailing Association, and two as members of the Maritime Lacrosse League. We also have Fall and Winter Cheering teams that perform at Football and Basketball games. In total, these programs are made up of 43 teams and compete at the Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Freshman levels. Our athletic teams are made up of over 800 students and these teams participated in over 740 athletic contests!

Present Sports and Levels at Dartmouth High School

104

Winter Sports

Cheering – Varsity Boys Basketball – Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Girls Basketball - Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Ice Hockey - Varsity, Junior Varsity Boys Indoor Track - Varsity Girls Indoor Track - Varsity

Spring Sports

Baseball - Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Boys Lacrosse - Varsity, Junior Varsity Girls Lacrosse - Varsity, Junior Varsity Sailing - Varsity, Junior Varsity Softball - Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Boys Tennis – Varsity Girls Tennis – Varsity Boys Outdoor Track – Varsity Girls Outdoor Track – Varsity

Fall Sports

Cheering – Varsity Boys Cross Country - Varsity, Junior Varsity Girls Cross Country - Varsity, Junior Varsity Field Hockey - Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Football - Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman\ Golf – Varsity Boys Soccer - Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Girls Soccer - Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman Volleyball - Varsity, Junior Varsity

Synopsis of Sport Seasons

Winter 2006 – 2007

Our Boys Basketball team finished in 2nd place in the OCL and they qualified for the Division 2 South Sectional Tournament. Our Girls Basketball had a competitive season and steadily improved. Our Ice Hockey team qualified for the Division 3 South Sectional Tournament after having a very successful regular season. Our Boys and Girls Indoor Track teams continue to be two of our most popular athletic teams with close to 130

105 students involved in the program. Both the Boys and Girls Indoor Track teams participated in the State Class B Meet at the Reggie Lewis Center. Our Cheerleaders’ efforts were exceptional throughout the season. They contributed to our overall school spirit. Dartmouth High School students chosen as Winter 2007 OCL All – Star by sport were: Boys Basketball: Nate Andrew, Justin Mello Girls Basketball: Devon Carter, Lauren Kelleher Ice Hockey: Thomas Barrett, Josh Chouinard, Kyle Mello, Brian Picinisco Boys Indoor Track: Morgan Brandso, Will Cole, John Gomber, Billy Hawkins, Matt Perry Girls Indoor Track: Brittany Cole, Molly Rouillard, Michaela Sleight

Spring 2007

Our Baseball Team qualified for the Division 1 South Sectional Tournament and lost to undefeated Walpole 2 – 1 in the second round. Our Boys Lacrosse team qualified for the state tournament for the second year in a row and our Girls Lacrosse team finished 2nd place in the League and also qualified for the state tournament. Our Sailing team had a very successful season under Warren Hathaway and D.J. Walsh. Our Softball team improved tremendously from the beginning of the year to the end. Our Boys Tennis and Girls Tennis teams both qualified for the Division 1 South Tournament and had very successful seasons. Our Girls Outdoor track team continued to be highly competitive and competed in the State Class B Meet. Our Boys team was champions of the OCL and did extremely well in the State Class B Meet. The Dartmouth High School students chosen as Spring 2007 OCL All-Stars by Sport were:

Baseball: Nate Andrew, Ryan Andrew, Tony Santos Boys Lacrosse: Tom Barrett, Andy Bosworth, Jay Ferreira, Nick Supino Girls Lacrosse: Danielle DeBurgo, Shelby Hickox, Maggie Schoening Softball: Ashlyn Mello, Dana Sylvia, Julianna Tatelbaum Boys Tennis: Tomas Rodrigez, James Baptista, Jon Eisenberg Girls Tennis: Jenna Cisco, Christina Nesse, Arielle Walton Boys Track: Morgan Brandso, Will Cole, Jeremy Fransisco, James Gilchrist, John Gomber, Paul Grafov, Ben Messier Girls Track: Brittany Cole, Leah Mello, Cristal Peixoto, Keanna Santos

Fall 2007

Our Boys and Girls Cross-Country teams were very competitive and under Coach Reed improved tremendously over the season. Our Field Hockey Team finished 2nd place in the OCL and defeated Dennis-Yarmouth 1 – 0 in the first round of the Division 1 South State Tournament. Our Golf Team qualified for the State Tournament for the second year in a row with a very young team. Our Boys Soccer team won the OCL Championship for the

106 2nd year in a row. Our Girls Soccer Team finished in 2nd place in the OCL and had a strong run in the Division 1 State Tournament before losing to Marshfield in the South Sectional Semi-Finals. Our Volleyball Team had a successful season by finishing in 2nd place in the league and qualifying for the Division 1 South Tournament. Our Football Team finished as OCL Champions for the 2nd year in a row. They defeated Brockton in the first round of the p la y-offs and qualified to play Everett in the Eastern Massachusetts Division 1 Super Bowl at Gillette Stadium. The team played a tremendous game and lost to Everett in over time. Jordan Todman and Sean Sylvia were chosen for the Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic Team. Jordan was chosen as the Massachusetts Division 1 Player of the Year and was nominated and won the prestigious Otto Graham Award. Our Football Team was ranked # 2 in the state in the final poll. Our Cheerleaders did a tremendous job all season and were the highlight of our annual school Spirit Rally in the fall. The Town of Dartmouth’s Select Board presented citations to our Football Team and Cheerleaders at a special meeting on January 9, 2007.

Dartmouth High School students chosen to Fall 2007 OCL All-Stars by Sport were:

Boys Cross-Country: Jeremy Fransisco, Nick Martin Girls Cross-Country: Genoa Warner Field Hockey: Allyssa Arruda, Isabelle Cassell, Hope LaBelle, Carissa Wills-DeMello Football: Ryan Andrew, Justin Cruz, Arthur Fontaine, Justin Mello, Sean Sylvia, Jordan Todman, Chris Toole Golf: D.J. Hudson, Todd Lake, Craig Snell Boys Soccer: Morgan Brandso, Andrew Brazil, Kyle Gavin., George Hodge, Chris Tsonis Girls Soccer: Jenna Custodio, Carolyn Merchant, Lauren Hopp, Dana Sylvia Volleyball: Meghan Brown, Leah Mello

MUSIC

William Kings la nd, D irector

ELEMENTARY

Miss Shirley Guerreiro was the choral and general music instructor for Cushman, DeMello, and Gidley Schools from January through June of 2007. Students from these three buildings performed in school-based productions of 101 Dalmatians for their spring performances. Students from Gidley School performed in February at Cedars Assisted Living and sang Valentines Day songs. Miss Guerreiro’s was reassigned to the Potter and DeMello Schools with the closing of Gidley and Cushman Schools in September, 2007.

107 DeMello students sang Thanksgiving songs at the Dartmouth Council on Aging and Potter students sang Thanksgiving songs at Heritage Assisted Living. Mrs. Marianne Oien started 2007 as a choral and general music instructor for the Potter and Quinn Schools. Students from the Potter School performed in a spring production of the Wizard of Oz while students from the Quinn School presented Ocean Commotion, which featured nautical songs and dances. Third graders from the Potter and Quinn Schools studied the recorder and music reading techniques. With the closing of the Gidley and Cushman Schools, Mrs. Oien became a full-time teacher at the Quinn School starting in September of 2007. She has also continued with the Northside Singers which performed at The American Choral Director Association Elementary Festival at St. Marks Prep School in Southboro, MA. Mr. Touchette and Miss Church direct the instrumental program at the elementary level. With the reduction of staff for 2007-2008, the elementary strings program began in fourth grade instead of third, and the band program was moved from grade four to five. The kindergarten music classes met bi-weekly rather than weekly as of September 2007.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

The middle school strings, band, show band, and chorus attended the 2007 Great East Festival. They received platinum and gold medals. Miss Church is the Orchestra Director, Mr. Touchette is the Band Director, Mr. Sousa directs the show band and Mrs. Rezendes directs the chorus. In September, 2007, Mrs. Bouley became the General Music Teacher at the middle school, as a result of the reductions in the music staff. The middle school combined band (grades 6, 7, and 8) represented the Town of Dartmouth in the 2007 Veteran’s Day Parade in New Bedford on November 11th. During 2007, Mrs. Bouley was featured in the S tanda rd Time s for her involvement with the New Bedford Symphony. She also appeared in a You Tube video with her string quartet. Mrs. Rezendes completed her Master’s Degree at Rhode Island College culminating with an excellent vocal recital. Mrs. Rezendes was also documented in “Who’s Who Among American Woman”. William Kingsland, Director of Music, took on extra teaching responsibilities with the middle school b and in S eptem ber, 2007, again as a result of the reduction of staff in the instrumental program.

The following students auditioned for and were accepted to the Southeast Junior District Festival in March, 2007.

Southeast Junior District Audition Winners Anna Audycki Ray Paul Biron Elisa Duguay Renea Gauvin Alexandria Georgadarellis DoHyun Kim Eva Machado Brandon Medeiros Adam Wang

108

HIGH SCHOOL

The high school chorus and musical theatre is under the direction of Juan Rodriguez. In addition to holiday, pops, and spring concert performances, choral students presented the spring musical “Gypsy” with a large cast and orchestra. Kaytie Dimery, starred in the lead role. Kaytie Dimery, David Raposo, Alyssa Bailey, and Kelsie Brejcha performed with Festival Theatre in the production of 42nd Street. Richard Blair, Drama Club Director, performed in the lead role. Mr. Rodriguez was a solo performer with the Sippican Chorale for their holiday program in 2007. Miss Church is the Orchestra Director at the high school. Beyond their regular concert schedule, the orchestra presented small group performances throughout the community at functions like the National Honor Society induction and town Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Miss Church was given a grant and selected as the Southcoast Teacher of the Year from the Community Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts. She was also Massachusetts String Teacher of the Year for the American String Teachers Association. The high school orchestra took a field trip to the Dunkin Donuts Center in Providence, RI to see the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Miss Church performed with this production in all of their northeast shows. The high school band is under the direction of Mr. Kingsland. The band provided music for their school concert schedule and graduation in 2007. They also provided music for: Dartmouth Memorial Day Dartmouth Firefighters Madeira Feast Parade Columbus Day Home Football Games Firefighters Halloween Parade

The marching band competed in Division 5 of NESBA and the USSBA. They were Division Champions in both circuits performing at Giant’s Stadium for USSBA finals. The show theme was based on Urban Themes and the Souths of Traffic. The Select Board of the Town of Dartmouth issued official citations for their achievement during the 2007 competition season. Certificates were also issued to the band and colorguard staff. Tom Aungst Stan Moore Ian Flint Jen O’Neil Guy Medeiros Jason Medeiros Jennifer Holske Lenny Machado Kelly Rose

The winter colorguard is directed by Lenny Machado and assisted by Jennifer Holske, Kelly Rose and Krista Noons. There were two groups in 2007, a varsity guard and a JV

109 group. The show themes were Romeo & Juliet and Goodbye My Love. Both groups competed in NESBA and finished in second place. The Indoor Percussion, under the direction of Mr. Aungst, performed an original show, The Turning Point. They competed locally in NESBA and the WGI. They attended regionals in Stratford, CT, and finals at UMass Amherst and in Dayton, Ohio. They won the Marching Open Class in NESBA and finished 2nd at WGI in Dayton. The following students auditioned for and were accepted to the Southeast Senior District Festival in January, 2007. Southeast Senior District

Shawn Baptista Ian Legge Chantel Deane Richard Medeiros Shayna Gonsalves Brea Warner Zachary Kingsland Kristin York The following students auditioned for and were accepted to the Massachusetts All-State Festival in March of 2007: Shawn Bapitsta Chantel Dean Zachary Kingsland

DARTMOUTH SCHOOL MUSIC ASSOCIATION

The DSMA is the parent support group for the entire music department. The President for 2007-2008 is Ann Marie Gomes. The DSMA helped sponsor and support our students at many of our local and away events and competitions. They staffed our concession stand in Memorial Stadium and also ran a concession stand at Gillette Stadium for the Patriots, concerts, and other events. Although we are fortunate to have support from the school department and the Town of Dartmouth, the DSMA oversees all our fundraising activities and makes it possible for us to offer more varied educational and performance experiences to many students in Dartmouth. They also maintain and staff a large moving truck for our students’ equipment and offer scholarships to deserving senior music students. ACTIVITY FEES

Students in the Band, Colorguard, and Orchestra paid fees for participation in these groups for the 2007-2008 school year. Fees for band and colorguard were $100.00 and orchestra was $50.00 based on budgets and extra curricular stipends. REDUCTION IN STAFF For the 2007-2008 school year, the Dartmouth music staff was reduced one full-time instrumental position and one half-time (.5) elementary general music teacher due to budget constraints. Dartmouth High School Donna Dimery, Principal

The administration and staff at Dartmouth High School continued to be committed to the continuous improvement of student learning for ALL students despite the challenges presented to the school community by the end of the 2006-2007 school year. Twenty-four (24) DHS teachers received pink slips in May. Town meeting determined that the school budget would be funded at minimum net-school funding levels. With the failure of the

110 July override and the closing of two elementary schools in town, Dartmouth High School ended up losing four teaching positions (science, social studies, physical education, and unified arts), and half of a secretarial position. In addition it became necessary to increase the teaching load of all department heads (that necessitated a corresponding decrease in curricular and instructional development and oversight). Fees for bus transportation, parking, athletics, music, and extracurricular activities were instituted. For the first time, teachers to whom we offered employment chose other job offers. It has been a difficult time for the DHS family. However, during the month prior to the defeated override, Principal Donna Dimery, along with faculty members, Rachel Chavier and Elizabeth Haskell, and parent Joyce Signorella volunteered their time and effort to apply for a Smaller Learning Communities Grant with the hope that no matter what the community’s decision, Dartmouth High School could continue to improve as an educational environment for students. Prior to applying for the position in Dartmouth, the new Assistant Principal, Loretta Patterson, shared her expertise and experience with the Smaller Learning Communities Grant with the team. Because Dartmouth was not only able to demonstrate a need and desire for improvement but also because we had a proven track record of implementing promising practices, DHS was chosen as one of only two high schools in the state of Massachusetts to receive funding from the federal Smaller Learning Communities Program. In late September, 2007, the United States Department of Education contacted Dartmouth High School with the news that we had been awarded a grant in the amount of $695,000 for the period 2007 through 2010 (over $200,000 equally distributed across the three years of the funding cycle). This success was the result of hard work on many peoples part through what was a highly competitive grant application process for a limited pool of federal funds under the Smaller Learning Communities Program. The philosophy behind the grant is a large body of national research, supported by the Gates Foundation that focuses on forming smaller organizational strategies within high schools of 1000 students or more to improve student outcomes.

Dartmouth High School’s successful grant application allowed the school to proceed with establishing freshman academies, developing student advisories, and providing teachers with specific training on teaching college level writing skills, teaming, interdisciplinary teaching and change leadership. This funding cannot replace any local appropriation by law. It is the Dartmouth community who will have to help us put our plans in place by providing the funding for up-to- date textbooks and technology, appropriate class sizes and sufficient support personnel, as well as increased supervision of providing students with a relevant and rigorous curriculum. Our goal is to go from being a good school to an exemplary school! Under the auspices of the Smaller Learning Communities Grant, this year 54 teachers are currently working on six committees with a focus on school improvement in the areas of Rigor, Relevance and Relationships. In our quest for continuous improvement, Dartmouth High School saw improvements in the spring 2007 student scores on MCAS testing from the 2005-2006 school year. For example, in 2006, 69% of our students achieved in the proficient/advanced range; in 2007, 77% reached that benchmark, an improvement of 8%! In 2006, 66% of our students achieved in the proficient/advanced range in English Language Arts, in 2007, 77% had reached proficiency or above, an 11% improvement! The entire staff, upon learning that

111 we had scored below state average in every single open response question in the 2006 MCAS administration, made a commitment for a school-wide focus on incorporating open response questions and rubrics into class work and tests. This year, Dartmouth High School students scored above the state average not only in every single open response question in the ELA test, but every open response question in the social studies test and science tests. The extra time, practice, and effort focused upon creating and grading open response questions for all of our classes certainly paid off. All of the members of the Class of 2010 who braved the high stakes science MCAS as freshman in 2007 passed the exam with a Needs Improvement or better score. (Students had also had the option of taking the exam as freshmen or sophomores.) The Class of 2010 is the first class that will need to pass a science MCAS along with the English and Math MCAS to qualify for a diploma as state standards continue to increase. In the SATs, we saw a slight decrease in our mean math average from a 545 to 540. The DHS mean score, however, still continues to be 18 points higher than the state mean average of 522, and 25 points higher than the mean average of all students taking the math SAT. In SAT critical reading, we saw a slight increase from 496 to 499, and in SAT writing we improved from a mean of 490 to 492. Both of these scores are just points under the national mean, but not where we want them to be. We trailed the state mean average by 14 points in critical reading and 19 points in the writing. There is more work to be done as we want to be more than average! Of the students who entered DHS in 2003, 86.1% graduated in June, 2007. That means that 49 students dropped out over the course of their four-years at DHS. Granted, many of them transferred to New Bedford Night School to get their diploma, many did not. During the previous school year, 1.4 % of our 1300 student body dropped out. That translates to 18 youngsters in a year. Dartmouth High School’s goal is to graduate ALL of our students college-ready without need for remediation. Again, we have work to do. Of particular note are the efforts that we have made to address the needs of our most fragile students. In 2007, only eight Special Education children will need to re-test in MCAS. Last year, twenty-one (21) special education children needed to re-test in MCAS. Progress in this area is being made.

We created another in-district Sped program at the high school for our ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) student population. We hired a teacher through grant money. We currently have placed three children in the program as an extension to the elementary and middle school ASD programs. At $40,000 or more per child, or a total of $120,000 for an outside placement for all three children, hiring a teacher and creating a new program saved the town money and provided the students with a supportive academic network in their home community.

We also saw an increase in our Developmentally Delayed (MR) program for students ages 14 to 22. Program participants increased from five students to eight students this year. Next year it will increase to 11 students saving approximately $40,000 for each child if they were placed in an out-of-district program. We also currently have four out of eight students working on job sites outside during the school day learning functional skills in a work setting.

112 To address the needs of students experiencing failure in their courses, Guidance Counselor David White developed and directed the Community Evening School. This program operated for the first time during the school year. It provided services for 65 enrollees. Students attended classes to "recover" lost credit from February - May 2007 and took up to two classes on Monday and Wednesday evenings. Classes offered were in English, science, history, math, art, and computer applications. Parents were called three times during the session to keep them informed of their child's progress. Our students had almost a 90% completion rate of the program. Overall, we saw a very positive result! The heart of our school is the Library Media Center under the able direction of Mrs. Laurie Dias-Mitchell. The LMC is in its second year of the MassCat pilot project, with MassCat circulation going from 24 items in 2006 to nearly 300 in 2007. MassCat is a multi-type library consortium and is certified by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners; consequently, it allows DHS students free access to InfoTrac, Electric Library, and Newsbank electronic databases. During 2007, the DHS library logged an average of 8573 student visits each month – before, during, and after school. That is an average of 563 students each day! On average, there were 70 whole-class visits to the library each month.

In 2007, because the DHS LMC enjoyed its highest book circulation, database and facility usage in its history, it was necessary to fund before and after-school access for students, faculty, and staff. DHS library aide, Pam King, was paid to supervise the library after school for an additional 30 minutes each morning before the start of the school day and an hour each afternoon, thereby encouraging independent study and promoting recreational reading. During 2007, the DHS Student Readers’ Forum met every Friday to discuss good books that members were reading individually. This year, members also participated in “shared reads” and “paired reads” – including Within Reach: My True Everest Story culminating in a field trip to Caribiner’s, the indoor climbing facility in New Bedford.

For the sixth year, the DHS “Teachers and Staff Are Readers Book Club”, which has twenty-five loyal members (including parents!), met monthly to dine together and discuss various titles including A Thousand Splendid Suns, Forgetfulness, Our Lady of the Forest, Everything Is Illuminated, and Three Junes.

During the 2007 National School Library Week, LMC activities included a SUPER RAFFLE (a $100 gift certificate to the Dartmouth Mall as the grand prize; with several other – on average six per day - gift certificates to: Rainoni’s, NY Bagel, McDonald’s, Baker Books, Pub 99, Big Value Outlet, DHS School Store, Panera, BJ’s Wholesale Club). Thanks go to the DHS faculty and staff for generously donating the majority of prizes!

Long-time DHS library volunteers Liane Laverty, Pat Swift, and Audrey Brooks continued to log hundreds of hours per year. Our thanks go to them. They are an integral part of the DHS community.

113 The DHS Library Director’s community service club “Think Community: Act Now” (TCAN) continued to run the dining room of a soup kitchen every other Sunday (year round) and during major holidays. They also provided much-needed services, such as landscaping and fundraising, for Hope House, Southeastern Massachusetts’ only AIDS hospice and for Gentle Arms, a teen homeless shelter in Fall River. TCAN, along with DHS’s other community service clubs (Diversity, Key and Amnesty International), has started planning their April, 2008 trip to New Orleans. Thirty-five (35) students and their chaperones will be working for Habitat for Humanity and Animal Rescue New Orleans during their spring break.

With a $2,500 grant from the Community Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts, Library Director Laurie Dias-Mitchell, along with participating faculty members Scott Richards, Cathy David-Thomas, Margaret Brumsted, and Loretta Patterson, implemented the second year of Natural Connections. The Natural Connections curriculum offers students a year-long, hands-on series of presentations and field experiences which exposes 17 at-risk students who are within Dartmouth High School’s Alternative Program the opportunity to learn skills, gain experiences, and use tools utilized in the natural resources management professions. Each month, Sanctuary Director Gina Purtell or a designee, in collaboration with participating Dartmouth High School faculty, visits the students in their classroom (or adjoining science lab) and presents one of a series of topics related to the Allen’s Pond Wildlife Sanctuary (geologic structures, soil types, flora, and fauna as well as ecological processes such as weathering and their causes) using power-point slide shows, laboratory equipment, software, computer-linked GPS units, and other tools. During a second day of each month the students travel to the Allen’s Pond Wildlife Sanctuary. There they apply the classroom lessons performing relevant stewardship tasks. Stewardship projects in the field include trail improvements, invasive plant removals, native plant planting, litter removal, and trail marking and mapping.

Laurie Dias-Mitchell, Donna Dimery, Lorraine Granda, and Anne Kelly designed and implemented the DHS/Gidley School Recess Partnership. Four (4) DHS seniors (Ben Messier, Kyle Espindola, Nathan Gauthier, and Chris Oliver) traveled to the Gidley School three times each week to coordinate meaningful recess activities for the students there. This project was funded through a grant from Southcoast Health System’s RAPPP Program.

During this year, one of the Guidance Department’s initiatives was to develop and publish their first Post-Secondary Guide to Careers and Education for all juniors. This booklet is used in the junior groups in the spring of junior year and again in the fall when they become seniors. This informative guide as well as our Program of Studies was also posted on line. The Guidance Department added useful software entitled “Career Cruising” to augment student awareness of all the career possibilities available to them. In addition, the DHS Guidance Department piloted a program that enables students to upload transcripts directly to colleges. Students now can participate in “On-the-Spot” college admissions with BCC and UMass Dartmouth due to an agreement between DHS and the local colleges.

114 The math department continues to participate in international research studies conducted by the James J. Kaput Center for Research and Innovation in Mathematics. In particular, the research on SimCalc projects begun by Professor Kaput, funded by a large federal grant, will determine and promote improved methods to teach algebraic concepts. Dartmouth High School was recognized by being featured in a recent Education Week article about the project. UMass Dartmouth will collect data as part of a study for use in determining if the SimCalc intervention has had a significant impact in developing the mathematical capabilities of our students. We also received our first Navigator system that will help us move into the 21st Century instruction in mathematics. The DHS Math Team, under the direction of Donald York, continued its winning record. They won first place in the Southeastern Massachusetts Conference Math League in 2007. The top scorer for DHS in the Nineteenth Annual Worcester Polytechnic Institute Mathematics Meet was Matthew Perry. Class Valedictorian Jaclyn Teixeira earned the highest four-year average in mathematics classes. The science department continued to enhance the curriculum with relevant and service- related activities. Andy Goodman's physics students taught physics lessons to elementary students at the Potter and Quinn Schools. Doran Cohen’s biology classes adopted a panda. Bob Kocor held the DHS Annual Blood Drive before he left on retirement. Margaret Brumsted's horticulture class worked with DNRT on a Community Service Project.

Genoa Warner (‘08) was awarded the Rensselaer Medal for 2007. This annual award, sponsored by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, is presented to one student in the top 5% of the junior class who has displayed outstanding achievement over three years in mathematics and science and who has demonstrated potential for success in a math/science related field. Abigail Finger (’08) won the Bausch and Lombe Science Award.

At Senior Awards night, the following seniors were recognized for their excellence in the study of the following science and technology courses: Architectural Drafting – CAD: William Cole and Kelly Dwyer; Engineering Drafting – CAD: Jacob Enoksen: Biology: Jaclyn Teixeira; Physics: John Armando; Advanced Wood Technology: Joshua Emmett; Engineering Drafting – CAD: Jacob Enoksen; Architecture Drafting – CAD: William Cole and Kelly Dwyer; Drafting Technology – CAD: Brian Parent; Applications of Technology: Richard Melo.

The 2006-2007 Dartmouth High School Women in Technology – Sensata Technology, Inc. Project had an outstanding year! Working with DHS faculty members Donna Sachs and Arthur Schattle and Sensata Technology, Inc. engineer Bob Southerland, the team designed two assembly fixtures for anti-lock braking sensor components for part of the production process at Sensata Technology, Inc. in China. The team utilized the design process to complete the project, used Computer Aided Drafting, stereo lithography apparatus and an optical gauge measurement system, that increased their SCANS skills in applying technology. This program allowed our DHS students to gain actual experience in the global world of corporate engineering.

115 The 2006-2007 school year was another excellent year for the CAD-Computer Aided Drafting program at Dartmouth High School. Students were involved in numerous hands- on real life learning activities that culminated in end of course professional architectural presentations to a diverse audience and a quality exhibit of CAD student work at the annual Dartmouth High School Art Show. Members of our English department remained very active this year. Two teachers had student teachers during second semester 2007. Bill Kavanaugh mentored Meghan Rogers from Providence College, whom we hired in the fall 2007. Claudia Corey mentored Cheryl Landry from UMass Dartmouth. Michelle Alexander was chosen to be part of the Red Truck Wines Cross-country Summer Promotion, in which she and five fellow artist/collaborators drove across country, kept a blog with photos and commentary, and shared interviews and other news. Wilbur Higgins served as a reader for the AP English Language Test (6/11- 6/15/07) and as a SAT essay reader (10/11-10/12/07). Ann Fifield was selected as an Associate Director of the Buzzards Bay Writing Project and served in that capacity during the local summer and district seminars. The Buzzards Bay Writing Project planned to use Meghan Rogers’ blog of her first-year teaching experiences as part of their local advertising.

Lily Brown (’08), a member of Mr. Higgins’ journalism class, won the Scholastic Writing Contest gold key. In April ’07, The Spectrum published an article written by Chantal Begley (’08) that was chosen for the ASNE National Edition. Angela Chouinard (’08) was awarded the Outstanding Student in English award for her four years of achievement in English.

The social studies department prepared for the high stakes MCAS exam in U.S. History which will be required of the students in the Class of 2012. In both March and November, the social studies department hosted the Company "B" Cavalry Unit, an American Civil War re-enactment group. They came to the high school to speak with students about the daily lives of soldiers and women during the American Civil War. On November 8, Dartmouth High School welcomed several Iraq War veterans. These soldiers shared their experiences with the entire school. The men who came spoke eloquently about the challenges, dangers, and heroism that they experienced and witnessed. The participants were: Sergeant Jose Tome, Sergeant Stephen Littlefield, Cadet George Jacome, Sergeant Stephen Davis, and Sergeant Robert Quinones. In addition, students heard from Sergeant Robert North, a former teacher at Dartmouth High School and Corporal Toben Medeiros, a Dartmouth High School alumnus, who was severely wounded during his second tour of duty in Iraq. During the presentation, Dartmouth High School also recognized Patrick Zuber, a Dartmouth High School alumnus and son of current teacher Patricia Zuber, who is currently serving in Iraq, and Sergeant Peter Enos, Dartmouth High School alumnus (Class of 1998) who was killed in Iraq in April of 2004.

The department honored outstanding students at Senior Awards Night: Kasey Considine Samantha Gollub (world history), Bryan Fournier (economics), Angela Chouinard, Rachael Falk, and Erica Mazza (psychology.) Rachael Falk and Samantha Gollub were the Outstanding Amnesty International students. On May 21, DHS Amnesty members

116 flew to Washington, D.C. to lobby Congress asking them to take action to stop the genocide in Darfur. This was the culmination of awareness-raising activities in Dartmouth about the genocide. It included the gathering of over 600 signatures for a petition to deliver to Congress.

Following her first year of teaching at DHS, Spanish teacher, Rebecca Taub became the advisor to the Spanish Club. Mrs. Taub formerly taught English in the Master’s Degree program at the Autonomous University of Barcelona. Spanish teacher Estella De La Cruz joined the world language staff as a long-term substitute in 2007. Having lived and studied in Spain, she previously taught students of all levels and ages in numerous schools there. French teacher Lucy Bly is advisor to the DHS chapter of the American Field Service. Students Phil Kraus and Caroline Watson studied in Argentina and Justin DeAndrade studied in Honduras until January 2008. Fannie Toivonen from Finland and Tomas Rodriguez-Monreal from Chile were welcomed during the 2006-2007 school year. In the fall of 2007, Lucio Gnotti’s visit from Argentina was reciprocated by Shelby Hickock. Griffin Hanrahan spent the year in Costa Rica and Chris Saunders left for Italy in January. Our students experiences are extending well beyond the wall of Dartmouth High School!

World language students participated in various food drives throughout the year. Mrs. Cabral-Pinto’s Spanish classes made the holidays brighter for an area family by purchasing clothing and collecting food items. Mrs. Sousa’s and Mrs. Carreiro’s Portuguese classes collected clothing and toys for the New Bedford Women’s Shelter, House of Hope, before the winter holiday. Students were encouraged to think of others. The Camoes Club, advised by Jane Carreiro, focused on participation in events that celebrated the culture of Portuguese-speaking countries. They made connections between the students at the high school in Povoaçao (Dartmouth’s sister city) through e-mail and written correspondence.

High achieving world language students included Nathaniel Costa, Ashley Tozer, Nicholas Lamarre (French); Angela Chouinard, Ashley Martins (Portuguese). Ashley Morgan, Jake Peelen, Erica Caravana, Meagan Raposo (Spanish) were recognized for their achievement during the Senior Award Ceremony held in June. Awards for the highest averages in these courses were presented to Nicholas Lamarre, Angela Chouinard and Ashley Morgan.

Camoes Club members and the Portuguese classes of Mrs. Dias-Faria and Mrs. Sousa attended a multidisciplinary presentation sponsored by the Portuguese Cultural Center at Bristol Community College to learn about events leading to the “Revolution of the Carnations” in Portugal on April 25.

Mrs. Sousa and Mrs. Carreiro utilized the Moodle on-line technology platform to enhance their teaching of Portuguese 4 and French 2. World Language Chairperson, Jane Carreiro, joined 14 middle and high school teachers representing seven metropolitan school districts for a curriculum workshop held at Harvard University’s David Rockefeller Center for Latin American Studies. “Music, Land

117 and Women’s Rights: Citizens Making Change in Brazil and the U.S.,” provided Mrs. Carreiro with the opportunity to develop 15 lesson plans highlighting social movements in Brazil for her Portuguese classes. In addition, she represented DHS at the 5th Annual Conference on Portuguese Language Education. Mrs. Carreiro also completed a National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Institute (from June 24 – 29). As part of “Inventing America: Lowell and the Industrial Revolution.” She engaged in research in the archives of the Lowell National Historical Park’s Tsongas Industrial History Center at the University of Lowell. She worked to develop materials and form interdisciplinary connections for her DHS language and culture classes pertaining to the role of the French Canadian and Portuguese immigrants in the early textile industry. She also completed the second in a series of district-sponsored courses, “Sheltering Content Instruction”. Ms. Carreiro regularly teaches evening courses in Portuguese and French for the Dartmouth adult community through the Southcoast Learning Network. She has also taught Conversational Portuguese to Dartmouth teachers through the 2006 -07 For Teachers, By Teachers professional development program.

Under the direction of advisors Anita Lamoureux and Patricia Kane, Dartmouth High School re-established the DECA Club in 2007. DECA is a marketing club composed of over 140,000 high school students across the U.S. and internationally. It began with 41 members who were required to be enrolled in various business classes such as marketing, business essentials, and accounting. In September of 2007, at the beginning of our second year of enrollment, there was a 28% increase in student membership at DHS. DECA students successfully marketed and ran a Powder Puff football game and marketed and sold candy on Valentines Day and in the fall in order to help raise money for competition. Our students were extremely successful at our competitions in 2007, especially for a first- year team. In the district competition with over 400 student representatives participating, 24 DHS students competed in 12 different areas as either a team or individually. We received a first place in the Buying and Merchandising Team Event (Michael Saraiva/Jason Ferreira), second place in Financial Analysis Team Event (Arthur Gracia/Kevin Wilkinson) and had over ten top ten winners. Four DHS DECA members qualified and competed in the state competition and four more represented DHS as our Quiz Bowl Team at the Copley Plaza Hotel in Boston. We received first place in Buying and Merchandising Team Event (Michael Saraiva/Kevin Wilkinson) and second place for Quiz Bowl (Anthony Carrancho/Courtney Pacheco/Arthur Gracia/Nathan Dufault). Our students went on to represent the State of Massachusetts competing against over 16,000 students in Orlando, FL. Michael Saraiva and Jason Ferreira competed in regular competition. Anthony Carrancho, Courtney Pacheco, Arthur Garcia, Nathan Dufault, represented Massachusetts and competed as the Massachusetts Quiz Bowl Team. Junior Christine Shannon successfully graduated from the Leadership Development Academy and went on to become the President of the Dartmouth DECA Chapter in September of 2007.

During Senior Awards, Bryan Fournier was named the Outstanding Student in Business. Ashley Sousa was the Outstanding Student in Web Design. Peter Ciminello took the honors as Outstanding Student in Computer Programming and Ryan Lake was the DHS Outstanding Student in Accounting.

118 As part of a continuing partnership with UMass Dartmouth Art Education Department, Mrs. Cronin worked with Professor Kathy Miraglia’s undergraduate art education class. Dr. Miraglia placed her 20 students in unified arts classes to observe teaching strategies. Other undergraduate students came in throughout the year to observe the exemplary DHS program from UMass Dartmouth, Massachusetts College of Art, and Bridgewater State College. The Unified Arts Department had a student teacher, Morgan Sharkey who worked with them from January through May (spring semester). As an ongoing part of the curriculum, Mrs. Cronin welcomed representative Angela Jones from the Massachusetts College of Art to speak to the upper level art students about admission requirements and to perform portfolio reviews, which helped to prepare them for their college applications. The advanced art students attended the National Portfolio Day at Mass College of Art in November under the direction of Mrs. Cronin and Mrs. Erwin. They received feedback on their portfolios to help them with their college admissions. Some students also had their portfolios accepted for college admission at this time. Professors Tony Miraglia, Kathy Miraglia and Mark St. Pierre from UMass Dartmouth gave a presentation on a summer college-level course available for high school students in Nocciano, Italy. Jennifer Signorella and Julia Signorella were chosen to participate in the Nocciano Institute for Arts and Culture for two weeks this past summer (2007). These students earned college credit for their work. This course was sponsored by the Mediterranean Studies Association. The students were accepted based on their grades and a letter of intent.

The advanced art students traveled to New York City for their annual field trip on April 5, 2007. The group visited Cooper Hewitt Museum, The Museum of Modern Art, the Fashion Institute of Technology, SoHo galleries (which they chose in advance from their research on the Internet), and they saw the Broadway Musical, Legally Blond. Mrs. Cronin hosted the unified arts department annual fundraiser—a day trip to New York City on Sunday, November 11, 2007. This year’s stage hands’ strike precluded the hoped- for viewing of the musical Grease. Proceeds from this trip will be used to cover a portion of the cost of the bus for DHS students to go to NYC in the spring of 2008. Hannah Szynal earned a Silver Award on the national level of the Scholastic Art Awards. From over 100,000 entries, approximately 575 students from throughout the country received national honors. Hannah received her award at Carnegie Hall in New York City on June 15, 2007. Her work was exhibited at the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, DC this summer.

The 2007 Scholastic Art Awards were presented on February 11, 2007 at John Hancock Hall in Boston, MA. The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards are conducted nationally by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers, Inc., a not-for-profit organization. The contest is co-sponsored by the New England Art Education Association. The awards given on the regional level are: (l) Gold Key—the highest level of achievement on the regional level. Gold Key winning works are forwarded to New York for national level adjudication. (2) Silver Key—presented for distinguished achievement on the regional level. (3) Honorable Mention—presented for work worthy of recognition on the regional level. The Gold Key Awards and the Silver Key Awards were then exhibited at the Massachusetts Transportation Building, Ten Park Plaza, Boston, MA.

119 The following students earned the following awards:

NAME AWARD CATEGORY TEACHER Ruth Barry Gold Key Jewelry Design Judy Cronin Maura Erwin Ruth Barry Silver Key Jewelry Design Judy Cronin Anna Franz Honorable Mention Photography Christine McFee Emma Gelinas Honorable Mention Photography Christine McFee Jennifer Goes Honorable Mention Photography Christine McFee Jennifer Goes Honorable Mention Apparel Design Judy Cronin Hannah Houbre Gold Key Jewelry Design Judy Cronin Kristina Nesse Honorable Mention Jewelry Design Judy Cronin Molly O’Leary Silver Key Photography Christine McFee Shana Lee Silva Gold Key Apparel Design Jacqueline Francisco Hannah Szynal Gold Key Mixed Media: Book Maura Erwin Hannah Szynal Silver Key Painting Maura Erwin

The Unified Arts Department hosted its annual art show in the Dartmouth High School Library welcoming friends, family and community. It was held on Thursday, May 17, 2007 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. The student body viewed the show on May 17-18, and the department hosted a faculty reception on May 16. The culinary arts students under the direction of Mrs. Cheryl Lowney provided elegant refreshments. Works of the students of the following classes were exhibited: Advanced Placement Art; Advanced Portfolio Preparation, Portfolio Preparation; Art 2 Foundation; Art 1 Foundation; Design Workshop Ceramics; Design Workshop Metals & Jewelry; Darkroom Photography 1 & 2; Digital Photography; Fashion History & Construction 1 & 2; Living Arts; Digital Graphic Design; CAD; Architectural Drafting; Methods for Early Learning; Early Learning Practicum, and the Dartmouth High School Preschool class,. The teachers of these classes were: Judy Cronin, Susan Brunette, Maura Erwin, Jacqueline Francisco, Polly Guilbeault, Christine McFee, Arthur Schattle, and Cheryl Lowney. The Advanced Placement Art class under the leadership of Maura Erwin had their exhibit, “Crimes of the Art” at the Dartmouth Gallery at the Town Hall. The opening held on March 19, 2007 was extremely well attended by members of the Dartmouth Community. The culinary arts students, under the direction of Mrs. Lowney, catered the affair. The exhibit was open to the public through March 30.

Caitlin Doe was chosen by a panel of art educators to participate in Art All State at the Worcester Art Museum in May of 2007. This was a weekend-long arts workshop focusing on art careers and college preparation for high school juniors. Only highly- qualified students were chosen. Much like college applications, students apply to this program with a portfolio, a letter of intent, teacher recommendations, their transcript, and they participated in an interview process in order to be accepted.

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At Senior Awards Night in June, the following graduates earned the following awards from the Unified Arts Department: Ruth B arry, Outstanding Student in Visual Arts; David Sequeira, Outstanding Student in Culinary Arts; Amanda Correia, Outstanding Student in Early Learning Practicum; Stephanie Mello, Outstanding Student in Communications & Television Production; and Jennifer Goes, Outstanding Student in Fashion Design.

On the opening day of school in September, 2007, the following in-coming seniors were honored with the following book awards: Harvard Book Award: Genoa Warner; College Club: Genoa Warner and Kara Bernert; Dartmouth College: Melissa Bermudez; Wellesley College: Kara Bernert; UMass Dartmouth: Christopher Bach; Smith College: Abigail Finger; Bryant College: Gregory Wa ng; and New England Tech: Sebastian Pritchard.

This fall, Jackie Francisco secured a Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising Innovative Teacher Grant for 2007. The grant awarded her $700.00 to purchase supplies for interdisciplinary fashion lessons. The judges appreciated the connections students made between history and fashion. As students created clothing that would have been worn in the late 1800's, they learned about the Lizzie Borden murders. They then traveled to the family grave site, the church w here Lizzie taught Sunday school, and finally the family home - all dressed in costume that replicated the sty les worn then. Following the Reggio Emilia approach of early childhood education philosophy, Polly Guilbeault mentored future teachers and childcare providers in the care and instruction of preschoolers enrolled in the Dartmouth High School Early Learning Center. The Advanced Early Learning Practicum students participated in field study observations under the guidance and direction of Polly Guilbeault with the following community child care facilities: Hawthorn Hill Preschool, Dartmouth Preschool at Quinn Elementary, and the Integrated Preschool at Quinn Elementary.

Mrs. Guilbeault’s Early Learning Practicum classes and Mrs. Lowney’s Methods & Materials for Early Learning classes participated in ACT Against Violence Training Program workshops through the RAPPP Program (Responsible Attitudes Toward Pregnancy, Parenting, and Prevention) sponsored by the Southcoast Hospital Group at St. Luke’s Hospital. Students who completed the three-course sequence received their Massachusetts Department of Early Education Care and Pre-School Certification. Some of our students completed the advanced level course and received an Infant/Toddler certification as well. These students will receive credit at area colleges through our Tech Prep Program.

The summer at Dartmouth High School was busy. Under the direction of Judy Cronin, the Dartmouth High School Unified Arts Department hosted the 5th Annual Arts Camp during July 2007. These camps were offered to all resident students from Grade 2-12. A total of eight courses were offered to the community, and approximately 72 students participated. Two sections of Jewelry Design were offered and instructed by Judy Cronin, two sections of Video Production were offered and instructed by Denise Angelo and Jocelyn Houle, two sections of Darkroom Photography were offered and instructed by Christine McFee, one section of Ceramics was offered and instructed by Susan Brunette,

121 and one section of American Girl Costume Design was offered and instructed by Jacqueline Francisco. Children from ages 7-17 participated. David White directed our second Credit Recovery Dartmouth Community Summer School during the month of July. Seventy-six students participated in the program. They experienced a 95% success rate. Elizabeth Haskell interned in an administrative capacity. She focused on meeting with students for positive reinforcement. Meetings took place daily and included frequent parent contact.

Dartmouth High School continued the Helping Hands Project again this year. The brainchild of Marshall Gerstenblatt, this was an all-school fund-raiser intended to provide financial relief for students and their families who fall upon hard times. In 2007, the school and community raised a total of $7,287.95. These funds were raised through community donations, collections at home football games, several raffles and collections in classrooms. Since its inception, Helping Hands has serviced 36 families consisting of 97 people. The total collected in the past two years is $13,131.07!

In 2007, we said good-bye to our beloved retirees: science teacher Robert Kocor, math department head Sheila Koot, and school nurse Mary Beth Collins. Seven of our pink slipped teachers, Cheryl Lowney, Robert North, Claudia Corey, Anita Lamoureux, Robert DaSilva, Jodi Roderick, and Chuck Lapre, as well as James McGonigle and Paul Elias, all sought employment elsewhere. Assistant Principal Manuel Cabral, Jr. became the new Principal of Dartmouth Middle School. We welcomed the following teachers to the DHS family: English teacher Meghan Rogers, business teacher Jean DeSouto, history teacher Laurie Chiarito, special education teachers Jeanne Flight and Sherri Houle, nurse Jill Dumont, math department chair Catie Marchessault and replacing her position, math teacher Everett Tatelbaum, Spanish teachers Rebecca Taub and Estella de la Cruz and Rap Room Coordinator Eric Silva. Linda Gold became our new ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) teacher. Loretta Patterson joined our staff as the Assistant Principal in charge of Curriculum and Instruction as well as the Project Coordinator for the Smaller Learning Communities Grant.

As is evident from this report, Dartmouth High School is a learning community that is actively preparing our students for a commitment to life-long learning and service. We are grateful to our community for the support they give us in this endeavor.

Dartmouth Middle School

Manuel Cabral, Jr., Principal

Dartmouth Middle School is certainly a R.A.R.E. place to be, where our students’ academic, social, and developmental growth is in the forefront. Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment

In the area of curriculum and instruction, our teachers continued to work to improve the alignment of what is taught with the Massachusetts State Frameworks. On any given day,

122 students are working and learning in a variety of different ways! This ranges from seventh graders completing a laboratory experiment investigating changes in mass movement, to sixth grade students preparing presentations on continental drift. Our students are constantly applying what they have learned. Teachers from the middle school have participated in curriculum meetings as well as monthly faculty meetings. Teachers map their curriculum to refine and improve instruction across grade levels. They have identified end of year grade level expectations and essential learnings. Teachers have met to develop benchmarks, that is, the concepts and skills students should master at specific times during the school year. Math teachers have been working with students to improve their computation skills. All Math teachers use the Math’s Mate program, in which students practice skills weekly and assess their progress periodically throughout the school year. Beginning in 2006, all students were required to participate in summer reading. We continue to work on improving and enhancing curriculum in order to meet the needs of all students and provide a challenging and interesting educational program. In September of 2007, a new student schedule was fully implemented. Students have a six-period day, with each period lasting about an hour. Students have English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies each day. In eighth grade, students continue to take a first year course of Spanish or Portuguese. The maximum number of students per block is approximately 110, which is an increase from last year. Due to the lack of funding, we had to discontinue offering French during our World Language block. The loss of our French offerings increased class size in many of our other World Language classes to over 30 students per section. Interdisciplinary planning time was created to increase communication among staff on curriculum and instructional issues. A sixth grade pilot inclusion program was continued this September to help further improve student learning. Special Areas are organized with the following offerings: • Sixth and seventh graders have Family and Consumer Science, Computer Basics, and General Music. • Sixth and Eighth graders have Technology Education. • Art is taught to students in all three grades. • Physical Education and Health have now been combined and is taken by students in all grades. • Students explore Portuguese or Spanish as a Special Area Course. • Academic Support time is a new Special Area. (This is time for students to receive academic support from their block teachers.) • As always, all students have the opportunity to participate in one of our excellent performance groups: Band, Orchestra, or Chorus.

Diagnostic testing is performed each year to monitor both students’ progress and our curriculum. Students in grade seven participated in IOWA testing in October. Last April and May, our sixth, seventh, and eighth graders took MCAS tests in English Language Arts and Mathematics. Eighth graders also took MCAS tests in Science and Technology. Seventh graders took part in a History and Social Science Pilot MCAS test. As the test results came in, staff members reviewed them. They continuously update and reflect upon

123 ways to improve what they teach and how they teach it. English Language Arts and math common assessments were revised and administered at all three grade levels. These tests are based on the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and provide teachers with valuable data to help inform instruction. In addition to the curriculum and instruction work that has been continuing in the classroom, there have been many programs that have enhanced students’ experiences outside of the classroom. For example, assemblies offered a wonderful way to supplement classroom experiences. They were scheduled throughout the year. Sixth graders enjoyed Scot Cannon’s presentation of “We Can” and “Toying with Science” as presented by Garry Krinsky. Seventh graders were entertained and inspired by David Parker and they were visited by a Roman Legionary from the Higgins Armory Museum. In October, seventh and eighth graders enjoyed the multimedia presentation, “Commitment to Excellence”, by Camfel Productions. In March, eighth graders attended the drama presentation of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”. In the spring, some of the chorus, band, and string students attended music festivals. Seventh graders attended a field trip to the Museum of Science. In June, some sixth grade classrooms also visited the Newport Mansions and the Feinstein IMAX Theater. This Fall sixth graders went to Roger Williams Zoo to study animals and their habitats and seventh graders visited the Feinstein IMAX Theater. A group of eighth graders attended Trinity Repertory Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Carol”. Students in grades 6, 7, and 8 participated in the annual New England Mathematics League Contest. In this math contest, the highest scores at the middle school were earned by Chloe Bernert in eighth grade, Adam Wang in seventh grade, and Ashlee Junier in sixth grade. The Veterans of Foreign Wars sponsored the annual Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest. The awards ceremony took place in March; Peter Mello was awarded first place, Lily Siegal came in second, and Kasey Silvia won third place. In honor of National Poetry Month, many of our students participated in a poetry- writing contest sponsored by Baker Books. In the Grades 6-8 category, our own Sarah McCormack, Grade 8, was the first place winner and Jacqueline Coakley, Grade 6, received Honorable Mention.

Teacher Quality

Mr. Steve Pettey, our former Middle School Principal, retired in 2007. Gr. 7 Science Teacher Mrs. Debbie McMahon also retired. Mr. Chris D. Oliver-Computers., Mr. David Carulli-Tech Ed., Ms.Kerri Scroope–Gr. 6, Courtney Flaherty-Gr.7, Sherry Krause- Mazza–Gr.6, Erin Ptaszenski–Special Needs, and Kim Hebert–Guidance, moved on and took positions in other districts. The following teachers joined the Dartmouth Middle School staff: Mr. Manuel T. Cabral, Jr.-Principal, Ms. Carolyn Wingate–Gr.6, Mrs. Karen McDaid–Gr. 7 English, Ms.Bethany Gendreau–Gr. 7 Science, Mr. Brian Amado–Special Needs, Mr. John Kelly–Computers, Ms. Pamela Glass-Technology, Mrs. Cheryl Lowney-Family and Consumer Science, Mr. Peter Graca, Mr. Paul Lemelin, and Ms. Kerri O’Brien as Teacher Assistants, Mrs. Christine DeMello-Cafeteria Manager. Transfer within the Middle School Staff: Mrs. MaryAnne Casserly-Guidance, Mrs. Susan Bouley-General Music, and Mrs. Charlene Monte-Strings (Half time).

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Student Support Programs & Services

The Dartmouth Middle School Wellness Program teaching position was discontinued in the Spring of 2006 due to a lack of funding. The School Wellness Program had provided opportunities for our students to participate in community service projects in and around the school community such as the Warm Hearts/Warm Hands Project and a food drive for the Humane Society sponsored by the Community Service Club. Through the design and creativity of our staff and students, the Wellness Program had built partnerships with community agencies and provided students with many opportunities to give of their time and talents toward helping others. We hope to be able to reinstate this position and resume these important activities in the future. Despite the loss of the Prevention Specialist, our students did continue to work on projects that show appreciation for each other, teachers, and the school community. Through the voluntary coordinating efforts of the Guidance Staff, during the months of November and December our entire school became involved in our Thanksgiving and Winter Wonderland projects. Students helped support Dartmouth families. They worked to make their holidays a bit brighter with food baskets, well wishes, and gifts from the heart. These overwhelming gestures of kindness and good cheer allowed each of us to feel like we are truly making a difference even in small ways! Our students are the forces that drive these acts of kindness and they are what make the Dartmouth Middle School a great place to be part of and call home.

Teachers continued to volunteer and work on the R.A.R.E. Committee headed up by Mr. Darren Doane. This committee is working to instill some of the ideals that the Wellness program addressed. R.A.R.E. is an acronym for respect, accountability, responsibility, and esteem. These are values which we want to continue to incorporate into our school culture. Over the course of the year, the students were exposed to a variety of activities associated with R.A.R.E. all designed to celebrate the academic and behavioral success of students. The After-School Program provided services to many students. It allowed for them to expand upon what they have learned during the school day and to explore new areas of interest. In light of a reduced services budget, Dartmouth Middle School instituted a fee for participating in the After-School Program this year. Unfortunately, we were not able to maintain the commitment to the after school enrichment program in the Fall of 2007 and had to cancel the Fall Program. Just some of the after-school activities that ran during the Spring 2006-2007 school year included the following: • Homework Club and Peer tutorial programs • Community Service Learning • Computers • Dance Club • Sports • Technology Club • Mock Trial • Gardening

125 • MATHCOUNTS

Destination Imagination continues to run as a fee based extra-curricular activity with parent coaches and middle school support. During March Madness Volleyball, a large percentage of the staff and students competed for the “coveted award” of overall champion.

Seventh and eighth grade students had the chance to interact socially at the Spring, Harvest, and Winter dances during the school year. Band, Orchestra, and Chorus concerts were held for each grade. These occurred in May and December. The Dartmouth Middle School Parent Group remains as an important support group for our school. Their successful fundraising campaigns provided funds to supplement after- school programs, the library collection, field trips, and teacher’s classroom expenditures. They contribute Dartmouth t-shirts and other items that are given to welcome new students entering Dartmouth Middle School after the school year gets started. Parent and community volunteers worked in the school’s media center. Parents signed up and received e-mail messages throughout the school year. Dartmouth Middle School staff and students benefit from the support of the many volunteers who donate their time and efforts to the school.

Leadership and Governance

Due to lack of funding, an Assistant Principal position and a half of a secretarial position in the Main Office were cut from the Middle School Staff in September of 2007. The Assistant Principal position that was not funded was primarily involved with curriculum, instruction, and overseeing the development of the students in grade 6. With the loss of this very important position the development of any new curriculum / instructional initiatives has been placed “on hold” for this year. While we always strive to improve communication with parents, with the lack of adequate staffing in the Main Office and at the Administrative level continued improvement has been a challenge during this difficult year. The guidance staff continues to publish its quarterly Guidance Newsletter. We also have our own website, www.dartmouth.k12.ma.us/dms, which includes a monthly updated calendar and general information about the school. As is customary, the school year started with a very successful Open House in September. The Dartmouth Middle School Parent Group sponsored a Book Fair in the spring and then again in the fall. In November, and then again in December, the Early Release Time Professional Development Days were used to allow for Parent Conferences. These conferences also occur throughout the year and are scheduled through our guidance counselors. At Dartmouth Middle School, we strive to ease transitions for all of our students. Last spring our administration and guidance personnel held an Orientation Night for parents of prospective sixth graders. A question and answer period helped parents to understand what is so special about life at the Middle School. In May, members of the Guidance staff visited all of the elementary schools in town to continue the orientation process with fifth grade students scheduled to come to the Middle School in the fall. This was one more step taken to ease the transition and anxieties that students and parents have when going

126 from fifth to sixth grade. Movin’ on Up Day completed the last of our Sixth Grade Orientation activities as fifth graders were bussed to the Middle School for a tour of the building.

In February, our eighth graders took a tour of Dartmouth High School. They also listened to a presentation from Bristol Aggie and the Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Schools about the opportunities available at these high schools. Also in June, a variety of activities for our graduating eighth graders were held to celebrate their last year at the Middle School. Assemblies featuring Brian Gillie’s Early Rock and Roll and Scot Cannon’s The Next Step entertained both students and staff. In addition, eighth graders participated in a field day. An eighth grade graduation was held at Dartmouth High School followed by a celebration held in our dining room where eighth grade teachers served a light buffet supper, catered by Subway.

Management

The Dartmouth Public Schools’ Crisis Response Plan was reviewed by the middle school faculty in 2007. Middle school faculty received training on the new Crisis Response Plan.

We conducted our annual mock drill with students this fall.

Middle school administration and teachers reviewed the D.M.S. Massachusetts’ Annual Yearly Progress (AYP) Report in September. The results of the Spring 2007 MCAS indicated that, overall, Dartmouth Middle School students’ performance continued to improve and stay on track with the state average. However, we remain concerned that students in our special education sub-group are not making the same amount of improvement in mathematics. Therefore, Dartmouth Middle School did not meet Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) in Cycle IV and was “Identified for Improvement” in Mathematics. We did make AYP in English Language Arts for the aggregate and all student groups in Cycle IV. There is more work to be done! Dartmouth Middle School continues to focus on the intellectual, emotional and social development of our students. The curriculum and extra-curricular programs in our school challenge, engage, and tap our young adolescent’s boundless energy and interests. The traditions and supportive climate of Dartmouth Middle School continue as new opportunities and instructional programs are constantly improved upon.

Andrew B. Cushman School

Heidi Silva-Brooks, Principal

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The year 2007 opened yet another chapter in our history. The new year brought excitement as we awaited the birth of first grade teacher, Mrs. Lisa Niemi’s baby and began the planning of the retirement party of a Cushman “icon”, Mrs. Alice Huff. 2007 gave way to many exciting events, which in hindsight will be remembered bittersweetly. Specific highlights include – Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment • Members of our faculty participated in the day-long professional development workshop on Inter-Session Day focusing on Mapping the Literacy Curriculum. Faculty members worked with their grade-mates from across the district. The experience was invigorating and allowed for a sharing of ideas. • Participation on the Data Coach team by Heidi Silva Brooks and Jana McHenry allowed for an in-depth study of district and building test score trends. This information was then shared with the PTO, School Council, faculty and students through targeted discussion. • Technology education was enhanced by our pairing with Jean Dean. Jean worked closely with our teachers and their students once per month. She inspired the teachers to continue their work with the technology standards.

Teacher Quality • At the annual Dartmouth Educators Association banquet Mrs. Wendy Howland, a Teacher Assistant, was named Distinguished Support Staff Member of the Year. • Mrs. Alice Huff, a teacher at Cushman School for 39 years, retired. The Cushman Faculty surprised Mrs. Huff with a hayride through the Sylvan Nursery gardens before arriving at the home of Mrs. Leeson. The garden party guest list included her college roommate, current and retired colleagues, family and friends. The Cushman faculty presented Mrs. Huff with a scrapbook honoring her 39 years in the classroom; a poem penned by her colleague Mrs. Angela Millette, a personalized porch rocker and the travel plans for a Maine destination. Mrs. Huff’s class presented her with a bench decorated by her students, and a frame containing the class photos of her first and last classes. The PTO presented Mrs. Huff with a garden stepping stone and a gift certificate to Tree Land. We wish her many happy days ahead!

Student Support Programs and Services • The Building-Based Support Team Program (BBST) allowed us to better monitor student progress. Participating members on the team included Building Principal, Heidi Silva Brooks, Reading Specialist, Jana McHenry and Learning Disabilities Specialist, Nance Bellizzi. Depending upon the nature of the concern the team invited the School Nurse, Patricia Grenon and/or Family Outreach W orkers, Maria Aguiar or Dee Kehoe to attend. The BBST met every other week. Th is approach allowed us to follow student progress more closely. Thus allowing us to document the strategies used by the classroom teacher along with the success or concerns they represented. • After school enrichment programs were offered to students. “Club” activities for fourth and fifth graders included – Press Club, where student reporters contribute

128 articles to the Cushman Chronicle; the Do Something, our Community Service organization. Third, fourth and fifth graders were offered classes in Science (instructed by retired teacher, Connie Sweeney) and Art (by Heather Houbre, MFA). • Representatives from the nationally recognized Junior Achievement program worked with our first and second grades to address the economic strand of our Social Studies curriculum. • An extensive list of coordinated activities was offered through our PTO’s Arts & Enrichment Committee for students at all grade levels.

129 Leadership and Governance • School Council members requested that a Parent Survey be created for parents of our first graders to gauge their adjustment to a new school as well as their receptiveness to PTO fund-raisers and sponsored activities. The results of this survey as well as our traditional fifth grade survey were returned to our building throughout the summer as we continue in our efforts to continually improve.. • Community Service projects done in conjunction with the Do Something team and our PTO were performed. New Bedford Child & Family Services provided us with the names and needs of five area families. This activity, known as Holiday Hope, created an avenue for our students to provide gifts to those less fortunate. Our students also donated canned goods, which were donated to the Council on Aging’s food pantry. The Do Something team also was responsible for our school- wide recycling program collection. • Mrs. Patricia Burke, PTO President and Read-A-Thon Chairperson, organized our second annual Read-A-Thon fundraiser. The Read Around the World theme was celebrated by calculating our “miles of reading”. Our students read almost 8 times around the world! We celebrated our accomplishment by watching Around the World in 80 Days while munching popcorn. • Mrs. Brooks and Dr. McHenry organized the District’s Summer Reading program. In addition to title selection and purchase, teacher activity packets were created with input from members of the district’s ELA Committee as well as classroom teachers. Titles at the elementary level included some old faithful’s: Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes (grade 1), Diary of a Worm by Doreen Cronin (grade 3), and Frindle by Andrew Clements (grade 5). Through suggestions by district teacher’s we selected Tooth Trouble by Jane Clarke (grade 2), and Niagara Falls or Does It, from the Hank Zipzer Series by Henry Winkler (grade 4), The Summer Reading program was funded by the district, a donation from the Dartmouth Rotary Club, and a grant from Target. Books were purchased at significant discounts through Scholastic Books and Baker Books. • We bid our fifth grades farewell with a Mardi Gras themed end of the school year party.

Business and Financial Management • The Cushman School budget successfully funded the instructional materials requested by our teachers as well as the supplies needed to maintain a clean, safe learning environment. • Our Parent-Teacher Organization supported the awarding of three scholarships to three deserving graduates of the Class of 2007. The Cushman PTO Scholarships were awarded to Daniel Bruce, a graduate from New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School who will pursue his culinary passion at Johnson & Wales. The second scholarship was awarded to John Amando. John will attend Tufts University to pursue cancer research. The Victor J. Ladetto Scholarship was awarded to Alexandra Miller who enrolled in the pre-med program at Davidson University in North Carolina. Unfortunately, the 2007 school year closed with an air of uncertainty. Due to the town’s financial crisis an over-ride vote was set for July 31st. Hanging in the balance was the

130 existence of our special school. The passion for our school and the special memories created through our 85-year history were shared with the community through news articles, heartfelt letters and hand-lettered signs. However, when the votes were counted, due to significant budgetary restraints, our doors were closed for the 2007-2008 school year.

With stiff upper lips our faculty returned to pack years of memories along side instructional materials. With the assistance of community volunteers, parents and former students, the life of Cushman School was transported to the Quinn School. Joseph DeMello School Cathy Maccini, Principal

The staff of Joseph DeMello School is committed to meeting the diverse learning needs of our students and improving their academic performance. Our strategy is to implement a challenging, standards-based curriculum designed to increase academic success of all students.

Initiatives developed to improve student reading and mathematics achievement were developed and expanded throughout 2007. By way of example, we established 90 minute uninterrupted reading blocks for students in grades one through three, and 45 minute blocks for kindergarten. Additional time was provided for students to work in small groups with the classroom teacher, reading specialist, Title I teacher or teaching assistant designed to focus on the development of specific reading skills based on individual needs. During these support periods we used research-based reading intervention programs with our struggling readers. In addition, we administered reading assessments called DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Literacy Skills) three times a year ensure that all students were progressing.

We also initiated a school-wide fluency program. Reading fluency is directly related to comprehension and consists of the ability to read connected text with speed, accuracy and proper expression. Students improve their reading fluency by rereading the same words, books and passages. DeMello students in grades two through five were given weekly passag e s to practice reading. Their results were graphed, thereby allowing students to see their own progress. This practice has coincided with improved reading comprehension and student motivation to improve their reading skills. In mathematics, students developed logical and systematic thinking skills, interpreted data and improved computational skills. A template was used to provide students with steps on how to respond to and solve open response math problems. Teachers conducted various activities that encouraged students to learn their math facts. We also provided parents with websites that offered additional math practice and activities at home. To assist with MCAS Mathematics preparation, students in grades three through five utilized an online program called Study Island along with the Heads Up or Math Mate’s programs to further reinforce their math concepts and skills. We also revised our summer math packets based on parent/guardian feedback and provided them to students expected to return in the Fall.

131 In addition to focusing on improving student reading skills, we attempted to foster a love of reading. To accomplish this, our teachers developed many enjoyable classroom activities centered on reading, such as author studies and book reports. Younger and older students were paired as reading buddies to complete various activities. We designated the month of March to reading, with the theme of March on Reading. During this time, students were encouraged to read at home. A reading incentive program was implemented where we graphed the number of books read by both students and staff. We celebrated Family Literacy Month in November by welcoming the Reading is FUNdamental (RIF) program. Members of the community visited each classroom to discuss the importance of reading as an invaluable skill and enjoyable pastime. Our guests also took the opportunity to read to the students. Our sincere appreciation goes to Trooper Diane Breault, Lt. Kenneth Cotter, Officer John Costa, Officer David Tavares, Officer David Oikarinen, Firefighter Anthony Poente, Firefighter Erick Turcotte and RIF Coordinator Ellie Martins for helping us with this endeavor.

We developed and adopted instructional practices designed to enrich learning. Our WOW word (Word of the Week) program remained popular among students and staff as an enjoyable way to expand student application of language and to encourage the use of rich vocabulary words. A book give-away program was implemented several times during the year to encourage students to read and to expand their home libraries. Our fourth and fifth grade teachers started voluntary recess study and homework clubs to assist interested students. In addition, the staff sponsored three Family Fun Nights focused on poetry, mathematics, and holiday crafts and games.

Our staff also focused on the use of technology as an instructional tool. Through weekly lessons in our computer lab, students developed their keyboarding and word processing skills. In a monitored environment, they became familiar (or more familiar) with the use of the Internet as a valuable research instrument. The NCS Mentor program allowed students the opportunity to review and assess writing samples consistent with the MCAS standards.

Staff members were involved in various professional development activities aimed at improving curriculum and instruction. Computer classes were conducted by our building technology coordinator based on staff interests and needs. Fifteen faculty members also participated in a ten-week book talk devoted to the topic of research-based instructional reading methods. In the spring, the reading support personnel received training in the reading intervention program My Sidewalks. The staff analyzed MCAS and DIBELS data as a means to identify student strengths, weaknesses and scoring trends all intended to assist us in developing improvement strategies. We were thrilled to have two of our teachers recognized in 2007 for their accomplishments! Mrs. Helen Mello was honored as the Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year for the Southcoast and Mrs. Elizabeth Correia was chosen as Fun 107’s Teacher of the Month.

We encouraged our older students to become responsible, civic-minded members of the community by providing opportunities for them to demonstrate their leadership. Students in fourth and fifth grade led the school in opening exercises over the intercom system.

132 The DeMello Student Council offered fourth and fifth graders the chance to contribute positively to our school community by coordinating the school’s recycling program and canned food drives for the holidays. They also sang holiday carols in classrooms, promoted Family Poetry Night by reading poems over the intercom system during opening exercises, and organized a “Back to the Beach” theme for the last day of school. Our school newspaper, The Tribal Tribune, was published several times during the school year. It consisted of school-related articles written by fourth and fifth graders. The Garden Club was comprised of third, fourth and fifth graders who actively maintained the hallway planters and courtyard, with the goal of beautifying the school and teaching horticultural skills. In addition, students in various grade levels and our Developmental Resource Room periodically entertained the seniors at Brandon Woods and the Dartmouth Council on Aging.

We also organized a Fit Club to promote fitness and healthy eating for students in grades one through five. Students wore pedometers and walked around the building with staff members three mornings a week before the start of school. Students earned plastic feet for miles walked to add to their Fit Club necklaces. We worked to create a positive and supportive school environment for students, staff and parents characterized by respect, honesty, compassion, responsibility and acceptance. This was articulated to students through our school motto: “DeMello Students are Respectful, Responsible and Friendly”. To promote increased student awareness of behavioral expectations and consequences, a PowerPoint presentation was viewed in each classroom in September. At that time, we reviewed school rules, our motto and ways to recognize and respond to bullying. Students participated in a state-wide essay contest sponsored by Bridgewater State College, devoted to writing about anti-bullying. One of our students, Autumn Avila, received an honorable mention for her composition. We implemented a “Respect Program” to focus on students being respectful to all members of our school community. Our goal was to encourage students to make good choices. Our teachers emphasized the cause and effect of choices and consequences, through the school-wide implementation of the Second Step program. We held school spirit days to recognize and reward respectful behavior.

We believe in a strong home/school connection and try to promote close communication among parents, guardians, teachers and administration. This was accomplished through the distribution of DeMello School Take Home Folders, teacher newsletters and websites. In addition, parents were provided with a monthly school activities calendar and newsletter from the administration. We created a lending library consisting of reading skill materials and games, as well as books and videos related to various counseling topics. Parents and guardians were advised of the available resource materials and encouraged to borrow these resources to help them more effectively support their child’s reading, social and emotional growth.

The DeMello staff is very appreciative of our supportive PTO, who funded all of our academic and cultural enrichment programs, contributed money to student field trips, and financed numerous other special activities and school programs. We are also grateful to all of our volunteers who devoted many hours to our school. Parents, guardians and

133 grandparents volunteered in classrooms, the library and the copy center throughout 2007. They were recognized for their contributions with a Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast held in June. One of our volunteers, Retired Lieutenant Colonel Sylvia Friedman, was named “Dartmouth Woman of the Year” by the Standard Times because of her passion for education and her related commitment to volunteerism. Lt. Colonel Friedman has volunteered at DeMello for the past five years, tutoring fourth grade students, dressing in uniform on Veterans Day and Patriots Day while conducting classroom presentations, and organizing a “Career Day” for fourth and fifth grade students.

In June we honored three veteran teachers, Mrs. Gay Encarnacao, Mrs. Kathryn Gifford and Mrs. Patricia Severs, as they retired after many years of dedicated service to the students of DeMello School. We thanked them for their commitment and wished them well in their retirement. In September we warmly welcomed Mrs. Melissa Pickering, Mrs. Carole Myatt and Mrs. Lisa Wheelden to our DeMello School Community. Mrs. Diane Maynard also joined us as a part-time kindergarten teacher. We remain committed to improving student performance and meeting the diverse needs of the Joseph DeMello School population. This is a true educational and social community where we work to ensure that all students learn to the best of their ability in an environment of mutual respect and cooperation. As we reflect upon the achievements of 2007, we look forward to building upon our accomplishments and meeting new challenges in the future.

Job S. Gidley School

Lorraine Granda, Principal

Ever mindful of the changing world in which we live while facing the reality of a town- wide fiscal crisis, the Job S. Gidley School staff continued to work to foster students’ critical thinking skills, problem solving techniques and civic responsibility in both academic and social development areas. It has been a proud tradition of the Gidley School to meet the diverse needs of all our students! We worked to offer a program of instruction that addressed the different learning styles and needs of our students. Our balanced literacy program, our in-depth science investigations and our challenging mathematical curriculum continued to help us hone the skills of our students. We also worked to provide our students with all the skills necessary to meet state and national standards while instilling a love of learning. Our teaching as well as our instructional strategies and techniques were research-based. Whether using strategies outlined in Research for Better Teaching, the philosophy of William Glasser’s Choice Theory or assessing through DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Beginning Early Literacy Skills), our primary goal was to have successful, well-educated, competent and capable students. During 2007, as the Town of Dartmouth confronted many fiscal challenges, the Gidley School staff remained persistent in finding ways to enhance student achievement. Technology played a key role as we implemented the web-based program, Study Island,

134 for our students in Grades Three to Five. This program enabled students to sharpen their skills on mathematics and literacy topics based on the state standards of the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. Study Island allowed students to practice at school and from home at their own pace by responding to multiple choice questions or by participating in interactive sessions. Students were also introduced to NCS Mentor which highlighted the creative writing process with an emphasis on open response questions. Students in Grades Three to Five were able to view other student writings, rate them based on a standard rubric and discuss why the writing met expectations or not as a means of developing their own skills. These coupled with continued use of Accelerated Reading, weekly lessons in the computer lab, daily work-jobs on the rolling cart of laptops and projects researched on the Internet demonstrated the strong role that technology played at Gidley. We believe that literacy development opens the doors to every type of opportunity conceivable. We, therefore, emphasized reading and writing skills not only as a separate academic area but also within each curriculum area. Our students were expected to be able to read and comprehend, to infer and to predict, and to analyze and apply. These skills were taught through a balanced literacy program that incorporated the use of an anthology, guided and interactive reading, literacy circles, shared and individualized writing, listening and speaking as well as spelling, grammar and language. It was (and is) our expectation that students apply all of these skills in every subject area. Using DIBELS, a research-based assessment tool, as well as student portfolios and formal and informal teacher assessments, the staff was better able to address student needs in phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary and oral reading fluency. The Early Reading Intervention program and Sidewalks Literacy Intervention helped us to target students in Kindergarten through Grade 2 who were experiencing literacy difficulties. As a result, we were able to provide our students additional instructional time and practice in these essential reading skills.

Our Math program covered the topics of number and operations, geometry, patterns, relations and algebra, measurement, statistics, probability and data analysis. During this year, the Heads Up and Math Mates programs were used to supplement skill instruction in Grades 3 to 5. These programs allowed our students to continually review specific topics on a daily and weekly basis.

Our teachers worked diligently through our inquiry-based, hands-on Science program to demonstrate how the strands of earth, physical and life sciences are interrelated and what effect each has on our environment. Our Social Studies program began with the Kindergarten unit, “All About Me,” and expanded to encompass our states, our regions, our country, our neighboring countries of Mexico and Canada and the world beyond our boundaries. Our fifth grade students made history come alive as they portrayed historical figures in costume and commentary at our version of a Biographical Living Museum. In January of 2007, Gidley School collaborated with Dartmouth High School to access the high school’s Service Learning program. Four senior boys willingly donated their lunch time to help supervise and contribute to our noon-time recess. With the assistance of the DHS media specialist, Mrs. Laurie Dias-Mitchell, these young men wrote and received a grant that allowed them to purchase Dance Dance Revolution, a program that they used for indoor recess time. Our students were delighted to listen and learn from the athletic

135 “stars” from Dartmouth High who patiently taught them the rules of various playground games and whose presence as appropriate role models helped decrease recess misbehaviors.

The Gidley School Parent Group offered enriching programs and activities to our students. Each grade level had a cultural program or activity and a class field trip that aligned with a specific curriculum area. The Boston Museum of Science brought its Star Lab for our second grade students while their Electromagnetism workshop benefitted our Grade 3 children. Grade 4 visited the Harvard Museum of Anthropology for their rocks and minerals unit while the kindergarteners learned more about animals during their trip to the Buttonwood Zoo. Perhaps, our greatest achievement during this past year was the creation of a library housed within the Gidley School. With the fiscal crisis in town growing, the North Dartmouth branch library was closed. With that closure, the Gidley students were left without access to fine literature and research tools. Through the tireless efforts and donations of our parents, staff, community volunteers, three students from the DHS National Honor Society and through the dedication of one of our teaching assistants, Mrs. Kathryn Gollub, our school library became a reality and opened in April. Once the task of taking over 5,000 books “one at a time” to bar-code, were entered into our system students began to access books for both enjoyment and homework assignments. It has been one of our building goals to empower our students to become responsible civic-minded participants in their community. Our fourth grade students annually provided a service day to the school. Students offered their assistance to “make things a little better at school.” Twigs were cleared off the front lawn, gym equipment cleaned, kindergarten manipulatives washed, and countless other tasks performed. Students took “charge” of our recycling program and every week emptied containers of paper into the appropriate bins. Our children contributed snack money and/or earned additional money to support The Standard Times Neediest Fund as well as collected toiletries to send to our troops in Iraq. A group of fifth graders consistently and voluntarily gave up their recess time to work with a parent volunteer to help beautify the grounds. This included raking, weeding, planting and maintaining our shrub and flower garden. All in all, the Gidley School students have been involved in activities that combined compassion and civic responsibility in a developmentally appropriate way. We believe that these real world experiences taught all our students the importance of kindness, fairness, respect and responsibility. More importantly it demonstrated that it does not matter whether you do something small or big, but what matters is that you do something to help. As the school year closed in June, our students and families patiently awaited the results of an override that would decide where they would be in the fall. We, the staff, students and families of the Gidley School, knew that together we would face the challenges that lie ahead and that together we would continue to pursue opportunities to help children to grow socially, physically, creatively and academically. On August first, the Job S. Gidley School family accepted a new phase in all our lives as we merged with the James M. Quinn and Andrew B. Cushman School to become one of the largest elementary schools in the State of Massachusetts. From August 1 to December 31, 2007, our story continues as we moved out of the historic Gidley School and were welcomed as new members of the Quinn School family.

136

GEORGE POTTER SCHOOL JACQUELINE FIGUIEREDO, PRINCIPAL

By January 2007, the newest staff members and students who had entered the Potter School family in September of 2006, had become acclimated to our school culture. Staffing changes occurred at the start of the school year due to the retirement of Linda Johnson as a fifth grade teacher, and a family leave taken by Denise Cassara, our part-time Reading Specialist. There was also some apprehension among the Potter School Community due to the possibility of additional staffing changes that might result from fiscal restraints that the School Department and the Town faced. However, it must be noted that throughout 2007, the Potter School staff maintained a focus on instruction and student learning despite both the possibility of change and the challenges that we faced. There was a slight increase in student enrollment from a total of 451 students in January 2007 to 468 in December 2007. Grade level totals have been primarily in the 70’s, but there is an enrollment bulge in Grade 4, where the total population for the 2007-08 school year has fluctuated from mid to high 90’s. There are four classes for each grade level, and this has yielded class sizes ranging from 17 to 24 students.

The District and School goals that had been developed for the 2006-07 and 2007-08 school years have provided a framework for our efforts. They are focused upon continued school improvement and increased student achievement. In English Language Arts, the development of students’ reading and writing skills has been enhanced by the use of new literature, the increased use of guided reading practices, and by having support staff work with at risk students in small groups devoted to providing additional instruction and reinforcement. The first and second grade classes presented class plays. These reinforced speaking, reading, and writing skills in an enjoyable and entertaining way. Other class projects that encouraged reading and writing and also involved families were: the first grade “Backpack Buddies”, “Flat Stanley” in Mrs. Lorrie Murphy’s third grade and Ms. Nancy Medeiros’ fourth grade, “Beanie Baby Adoptions” in Mr. Paul LaBelle’s fourth grade, and Mrs. Christine Morrison’s third grade participation in a program called “ImagiNATIONS” which involved the travels of the class teddy bear, Toasty. A motivational tool used to spark student writing was provided when the PTO sponsored a special performance by storyteller Tom McCabe. Mr. McCabe’s presentation was supplemented with writing workshops in Grades 3, 4, and 5. These were done with enthusiasm! In Mathematics, the use of the District supplementary skill reinforcement programs has been expanded at Potter School beyond Grades 3, 4, and 5. All the first grades and two second grades have implemented the Heads Up! program. The remaining two second grades will also use the program for the 2008-09 school year. In Social Studies, the purchasing of some updated maps and supplementary materials have assisted us in aligning the curriculum with the State Frameworks. One of the additions was a new audiovisual interactive program, WeeBee Tunes for Grade 2, which augments the study of the continents. There are enough new Social Studies textbooks in use in Grades 3 and 4. The continued purchase of the revised edition of the Grade 5 U.S History texts remains as a priority for the 2008-09 school year. There was an integration of English Language Art and Social Studies through a fourth grade biography project that included the “People’s

137 Promenade”. During this activity, students dressed in character and walked around the cafeteria before an audience of students and parents. Instruction in Science remained kit- based. Our hands-on units and curriculum are modified as needed with the help of consultant, Roxanne Kapitan. The continuation of a partnership with the Lloyd Center remains a welcomed component of the elementary school Science program. Third graders enjoyed the study of birds through the center’s Feathery Focus program. We promoted the study of local resources through a unit on Coastal Studies. It was well received by fifth graders! The World of Motion is a curriculum supplement that has been implemented in Mrs. Joan Pepin’s third grade classroom. It is provided by the Society of Automotive Engineers Foundation. Mrs. Pepin collaborates with Dr. Irv Krauss to provide students with this curriculum experience that compliments the students’ study of energy, design, balance, and other areas of Physical Science and Technology/Engineering.

Due to a lack of classroom space, the Potter School does not have a computer lab. However, there are two mobile computer labs, each with 25 iBooks that are accessible to both students and staff. Wireless internet capability has been improved with the addition of airports throughout the school. As a result, there has been an increase in the use of these laptops. Students have worked under the guidance of their classroom teachers, and also participated in lessons with the District’s part-time Technology Consultant, Mrs. Jean Dean. The PTO will be purchasing 5 additional laptop computers to add to our mobile labs. This purchase will begin to fulfill our goal of acquiring a third mobile lab for the school.

The Arts have been integrated into the school day in a variety of ways. In addition to students’ weekly Art and Music classes, the implementation of the Music in the Morning program, sponsored by New Bedford Symphony Orchestra, continued to be a pleasant way to begin each school day. PTO sponsored cultural programs, such presentations by the New Bedford Ballet and the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra were brought into the school. Whole-school sing-alongs have also been held to promote the Arts. Our PTO through collaboration with our Art teachers, held an Arts Festival. This event was attended by many families. Additionally, the number of students who participate in the instrumental program and the concerts that include both choral and instrumental presentations serve to further demonstrate the Potter School’s interest in the Arts. A positive school culture is vital to student success and achievement in an academic environment. Cooperation and respect are promoted at Potter School - both in and out of the classroom! Use of the Second Steps program and the school’s “Respect Campaign” foster the development of students’ social skills. Students learn to respect one another’s differences, as they are taught strategies to use to solve social problems and manage anger. A special school-wide event, “Mix It Up at Lunch Day” was organized by the school’s Outreach Worker, Mrs. Carrie Gregoire. It was held in November to encourage students to make new friends and to create a welcoming environment during lunch periods. The fourth grade “Cultural Fair” and “Spring Clean-up Day” are special events developed and held to show respect not only for people, but also for various cultures and for the environment. Collaboration is cultivated by teachers’ use of cooperative learning strategies, where children learn to work as a team, and “buddy programs”, where students from an older grade work on a project with students from a younger grade. A number of

138 curriculum-based field trips have also been taken by the different grades. These events foster the development of positive relationships. Whole school assemblies build a sense of community and nurture school spirit. The school staff worked together to bring families to school by holding a “Dr. Seuss Night” in early March in a celebration of Dr. Seuss’ birthday and to promote literacy. Something new instituted in September that promotes school unity is the recitation of the “Pledge of Allegiance” by all classes at the same time near the start of the school day. Additionally, for the past few years, a whole-school field trip has been planned and held. Both staff and students have enjoyed the camaraderie and shared learning experience!

There are a number of PTO sponsored activities that have helped to foster a positive school climate. The school “Cook-out” was held in conjunction with “Field Day” in June. Then, “Skate Night”, “Movie Night”, the “All Elementary School Picnic”, “Family Nights” for the kick-off of school book fairs, “Papa Gino’s Night”, and “Pancake Breakfast” at Applebees were all enjoyable family events.

Connections with the community further illustrate the importance of collaboration for Potter students and staff. The relationship of Mrs. Paula Flannery’s fourth grade class with the residents of “The Heritage” assisted living facility is an example of a rewarding inter-generational association. Our resident foster grandmother Florence Mills volunteers in Mrs. Joan Pepin’s third grade classroom to assist students with various learning activities. There were also a number of classroom and school activities that were oriented toward community service. In February, Mr. Paul LaBelle’s fourth grade class collaborated with a High School group, the TGAL (“Think Globally, Act Locally) in a special “Pajama Program”. They sought donations from classmates and other students in the school, to purchase new pajamas or books for children in shelters, orphanages, and group homes. Another program was the “School Walk for Diabetes”. This was a school- wide program that involved having students walk during one of their gym periods in honor of their diabetic “heroes” (a few fellow-classmates). In addition, some families participated in fundraising activities to support the American Diabetes Association. There were two other endeavors that cultivated empathy for soldiers. Mrs. Maureen Mantzavinos’ fifth grade class participated in “The Butterfly Tree” project. This was a nationwide effort to honor soldiers killed in the line of duty. Then, in December, Mrs. Jennifer Oliver’s third grade class collected donations and purchased telephone cards to send to a unit in Iraq. This allowed soldiers to call home for the holidays. Then in April, Mrs. Michelle Dias, a Special Education Teacher, involved students in an Earth Day project. Students decorated paper grocery bags provided by Stop & Shop with an Earth Day message. The bags were then returned to the store and used by customers for their groceries on Earth Day. Concern for the environment was further enhanced through two recycling presentations; “Garbage Is My Bag” was a show about recycling that was sponsored by the PTO, and a group from UMASS Dartmouth made a presentation and completed a recycling project by having third grade students make kites from recycled materials.

“Learning, Caring, Sharing” are words on the Potter School flag. It is believed that the information shared in this year’s annual report exemplifies the positive climate that exists

139 at Potter School. The School Council conducted a parent survey to seek information and opinions from families in the areas of school culture, school policies and procedures, and academics. The return rate represented 62% of the student population, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. There is always room for improvement, but the school mission statement and results remain in close alignment with the general goals of our school, the district, and community.

James M. Quinn Elementary School

Heidi Silva-Brooks, Co-Principal Lorraine Granda, Co-Principal

The mission of the James M. Quinn Elementary School is to provide an educational environment that fosters a love of learning and affords each child an opportunity to develop his or her full potential. It is also our objective to have all children develop problem-solving strategies as well as high-level thinking skills. Learning and social experiences are structured in a manner that promotes mutual respect, self-esteem, and individual responsibility. Through the dedication of staff, the support of parents, and involvement of the community all children will be well prepared for the challenges of the future.

Instruction/Curriculum During the spring of 2007, the Quinn Staff focused on several areas that were specifically geared to enhance learning for students. One area of focus was improving comprehension skills in both fiction and non-fiction literature for all students. Our literacy specialists led two specific “Book Talk” groups (K-2, 3-5) using professional readings. Teachers met monthly on the assigned readings and discussed the content. New strategies were implemented in the classroom and follow-up discussions occurred. There were also opportunities for teachers to share the information during staff meetings. This enabled the staff to work together and determine ways to improve student success and learning.

Writing became another area of focus that grew from teacher discussions. A vertical team combining teachers from multiple grades discussed various writing programs that were utilized throughout the grades. The team met monthly and developed various writing samples and organizers. This enabled teachers to discuss writing expectations, common language, and writing formats throughout the grades.

Another committee that was formed this past year was the MCAS Analysis Committee. Staff analyzed the previous year’s MCAS scores and discussed areas in need of improvement. After analysis, the committee recommended open response in English Language Arts as an area of focus. During a staff meeting, each grade level developed open response questions that would be used in the classroom. At a follow-up meeting, teachers brought examples of student responses and discussed the outcomes. This was a

140 wonderful example of how data analysis was and can be used to improve student achievement. One of the goals of the Quinn School is to serve as a continuous learning community. The various professional learning communities mentioned represent just some highlights of the professional collaboration that occurs at the Quinn School. There are many, many things that happen on a daily basis that are geared to improve instruction in each and every classroom. Common planning time afforded the staff with the opportunity to meet, plan and discuss instruction and curriculum, activities that fostered professional collaboration.

This year has also been a year of transition due to the retirement of our school principal, Dr. Carol Karafotis. Dr. Karafotis had been the principal since the inception of the Quinn Elementary School and devoted over 30 years of service to the Dartmouth Schools.

Student Support In the spring of 2007, our school was very fortunate to be able to continue the After- School Program for our students. This program was made possible through the efforts of the Quinn Parents with some support from Bishop Stang High School students. A variety of topics was offered to the students. These included arts and crafts, drama, basketball, volleyball, and cooking, just to name a few. Parents volunteered their time and, as a result, we were able to offer these after-school sessions to many of our children. Another parent volunteer continued to work with students in writing a school newspaper and literacy magazine.

There were also a number of activities that were planned in order to continue to build “community” among the students and staff. As in previous years, one of our Outreach workers provided a program to our fifth-graders entitled, “Don’t Laugh at Me”. This program sensitized students to the issue of harassment and bullying. Children were specifically taught the need to respect others, what to do if they are being bullied, and/or what to do if someone else is being bullied. Different groups of fifth graders helped spread this message by visiting classrooms and teaching the lessons. This year Quinn along with the other elementary schools implemented the “Second Steps” program. This program helps students to develop empathy, manage emotions and improve problem- solving skills. The classroom teachers taught mini-lessons each week that focused on these concepts. Posters were displayed in each classroom and around the school that reminded students of the “Second Step” strategies. Monthly assemblies with the total student body and staff were also held to reinforce these concepts. These assemblies helped promote a feeling of family among the Quinn students and staff.

Parent Involvement During the spring, parents continued to contribute in many ways to the James M. Quinn School. There were many different activities in which parents took an active role. Their efforts to raise money to support so many of the extra events that take place at school was (and is) greatly appreciated! Due to their fundraising efforts students at each grade level were able to attend a variety of field trips. In addition, a number of Arts and Enrichment programs also came to our school. Many of the programs focused on the curriculum the students were learning. Along with the fundraisers our parents sponsored events such as:

141 Holiday Shop, Field Day, Ice Cream Party, Lip Sync show, Book Fair, Family Social, School Store and Guest Readers’ Week. We also have a large number of parents who volunteer in the classroom, computer lab and in the media center. Quinn parents enriched our school on a daily basis!

On August 1st another chapter in the “Quinn School Story” began to unfold. The narrow defeat of the over-ride sent the staff into action. Immediately summer plans were scrapped and packing and moving began. A schedule was set with the Superintendent, Business Manager, Head of Maintenance and Administrative Team. Through the combined efforts of a contracted moving company, participants from the Sheriff Department’s work release program, the school department’s maintenance staff, combined custodial staff and hundreds of community volunteers, a small miracle occurred! The Quinn classrooms were re-located, Gidley and Cushman teachers were packed and everyone was moved to their new home – the Quinn School.

142 Within 3 weeks, Gidley and Cushman were emptied; Quinn classrooms were re-organized; and an early open house was offered to the 1000+ students and their families who would be calling Quinn their elementary school. By Labor Day weekend, the heavy lifting was done and our building looked like a school. - from the front decorated window’s welcoming message to the colorfully decorated classrooms, everything was prepared awaiting the students’ arrival. However, moving was the easy part. A new community needed to develop. The personality and traditions of the three previous schools needed to find the correct combination to create a new Quinn. Not without “bumps and bruises” that we all did carry on. We merged the staffs of three buildings – from cafeteria, custodians, monitors, secretaries, teacher assistants, teachers and administrators - 140 members strong. We merged the three PTO’s creating a six person “Presidential Council” equally representing the three former schools. Our final group – the School Council, currently seats all the former members of the three councils creating a 17 person group. If there is in fact, “strength in numbers,” than we are mighty strong! The success of our first three months together was achieved through shared efforts, the delegation of many tasks, and determination. Heidi Silva Brooks, former Cushman School Principal and Lorraine Granda, former Gidley School Principal, were appointed Co-Principals of the Quinn School. They joined forces with Wendy Weidenfeller the previous Quinn School Assistant Principal. This administrative team worked tirelessly to develop classlists, specialists schedules, and a working model for meeting the needs of students, staff and parents. The expertise of the Co-Principals having 15+ years of combined administrative experience, allowed Mrs. Brooks and Mrs. Granda to tackle the task at hand. Mrs. Weidenfeller’s invaluable insights into the building, students and faculty served the team well. Through everyone working together, the success of this transition was possible. The Presidential Council (Lisa Perry and Leah Chesney from Quinn; Cathy Banville and Heather Macedo from Gidley; Jen Foley and Carlin Moroney from Cushman) worked closely with the tri-Treasurers (Betsy Araujo, Catharine Scott and Cathy Mayall). They created a sound fiscal plan of fund-raisers and a budget of negotiated expenditures based upon their collective experiences. Our goal “to build a sense of community through our activities” was achieved through two major events held for our students. On Friday, October 19th, the PTO organized a Haunted Halls Event. Students and their families were able to attend either the earlier Pre-School to Grade 2 event (which ran from 4:45-6:45 p.m.) or the Grade 3 to 5 event (which ran from 7:15-9:15 p.m.). Families entered the gym to participate in a variety of games. They traveled the haunted hallway to the band room where dancing was lead by a DJ and the event ended with a stop by the cafeteria where a variety of snacks and drinks were served. Over 700 students attended with their families. The night was a huge success for everyone as we built the “Quinn Community”. On November 2nd, our PTO sponsored Rob Surrette’s Amazing Art Hero “Be Somebody” show. This multi-media extravaganza was held at the Dartmouth Middle School’s auditorium. The size of the auditorium allowed for the 1,000+ Quinn School students to see the show in just 2 seatings. Rob conveyed the messages of respect, compassion, creativity, and the power of positive thinking while speed painting gigantic murals of

143 historical figures. While telling the subject’s life story through spoken word and song, Rob painted the portraits of Abe Lincoln, Albert Einstein, Mother Theresa, Beethoven and Martin Luther King, Jr. At the conclusion, our PTO generously purchased the paintings of Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King, Jr. They are proudly hung in our main hall to remind the students of the amazing experience. Our fifth graders are most acutely aware of the changes that we have experienced this fall. Therefore, it has been the goal of their teachers and parents alike to preserve their final year at elementary school as a special one. Although unique from their previous experience, the 180+ members of the fifth grade class participated in the annual holiday concert – Quinn Style. The fifth graders were divided into two groups of four classrooms each performing the holiday musical; one night the fifth grade band performed with the chorus, and on the second evening the chorus was joined by the fourth and fifth grade strings performers. December came to a close with a special holiday performance by four of our first grade classes and a visit by the Old County League Football Champions Dartmouth High School football team. The success of Quinn School rests squarely on the shoulders of our teachers and all of our staff. Their commitment to foster the ideal student/teacher relationship beautifully transcends the educational experience-whether found in a small or large school. Our staff is working together to share their collective knowledge base and resources with each other and, as a result, our students continue to benefit. In all, the challenging areas of student arrival, dismissal, lunch and recess remain our areas of concern. The shear size of our student population impacts these areas exponentially. While we analyze the possible alternatives and their consequences, we are bound by certain contracts and work schedules which have limited our ability to resolve these issues this year. It is our goal in the next school year to re-configure and improve upon these areas of difficulty. The rewards of this transition have been found in the small joys of the elementary experience. It is those joys, which carry us all through the difficult times brought about by the town-wide fiscal difficulties that we all continue to face.

“Nos somos escolas differentes mas trabalhamos como uma so escola” We are different schools working as one…, The challenges that we face are numerous. Each portion of this annual School Report reflects the style, areas of emphasis, and contributions of the various members of our staff. They reflect what’s special and unique among all of our schools. They also reflect the many combined efforts underway as we all strive to provide the young people of Dartmouth with an educational experience that will benefit them both today and tomorrow.

Muito Obrigado. Respectfully submitted, Steve Russell, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools

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Dartmouth Community Television Staff: Dr. Cynthia Marland, Director of Media Peter Chasse, Technical Manager David Finer, Operations Coordinator Derek Frates, Production Coordinator

Board of Directors: Michael Gagne, Joseph Barbero, Larry Edmundson, Mary Ellen Gomes, Russell Robinson, Dr. Stephen Russell & Jim Thompson.

Our mission is as follows: Dartmouth Community Television, Channel 18, is an educational and governmental partnership dedicated to the production and cablecasting of high quality programming for the residents of Dartmouth, MA.

Two-thousand-seven proved to be a banner year for Dartmouth Community Television in many ways. Cynthia continued to lead the organization in many exciting and new directions; Peter continued to provide us with the highest-quality technical leadership and vision, and Derek and David produced and directed many programs that were considered both poignant and extremely effective in regard to the Town’s current events and issues. Between coverage of municipal meetings, educating the school system’s students and university’s interns, production assistance from the Dartmouth Wanderers, and accomplishments by the staff throughout the year, DCTV is not only proud of what we achieved in 2007, but also excited about the prospects of what 2008 might bring.

Government Coverage DCTV has always been committed to providing high-quality coverage of municipal meetings throughout the Town of Dartmouth. Over the course of any given week, we cover the Select Board Meetings, Zoning Board of Appeals Meetings, and Planning Board Meetings from inside the John Marland Meeting Room in Dartmouth Town Hall. In addition, we also have LIVE coverage of the annual and spring town meetings from Dartmouth Middle School.

There were many highlights to our government coverage in 2007. In May, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick made an appearance in Town and we carried the Municipal Partnership Act Press Conference LIVE on Channel 18 from Town Hall.

145 Massachusetts State Representative John F. Quinn (D – 9th Bristol District) produced two programs over the course of the year. In May, Rep. Quinn interviewed Rep. John Rogers at the State House in Boston about a number of topics. In December, Dartmouth was visited by Michael Festa, Esq., the new Secretary of MA Office of Elder Affairs, and Rep. Quinn interviewed him at the Council on Aging on Dartmouth Street.

Under the direction of Jim Travers, and with help from a number of Dartmouth Middle School students, DCTV provided the Town with LIVE results during April’s Town elections and July’s override vote.

Dartmouth Wanderers The Dartmouth Wanderers from the Council on Aging are a model for senior citizen video programming. The Wanderers include Edith Andrews, Joe Barbero, Ida Case, Maria Connor, Charles Ditata, Janet Doe, Rubye Finger, Ruben Go ldstein, and Paul Levasseur. They continue to focus on health, Town government and history programming. Throughout the year, programs produced by the Wanderers covered a wide range of topics like politics, community events, and Town issues.

Sadly, the Wanderers said goodbye to two of their valued members in 2007 - Gene Chapman and Ralph Schmarsow.

Education DCTV continues to work with students in the Dartmouth Public School System that start in grade six and go all the way through programs at the University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth. The student production crews have made great use of our production truck by helping us cover numerous sporting and musical events.

From the Dartmouth Public School System, we have received help from students Chace Allain, Pat Barrow, Meghann Gilligan, Alex Golen, Jocelyn Houle, Adam Kitchen, Tyler Marland, Steph Mello, Justin Pelletier, Zachary Oliviera, Dylan Santos, Guy Shepherd, Amanda Sideris, Alexandra Siegel, Anita Sylvia, Corey Theodore, Alex Walecka, and Jimmy Wilkins. From the University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth, work-study interns included Kevin Arruda, Dan Aspesi, Matt Beaucage, Jessica Gove, Seth Halko, Kathleen L’Abbe, Thomas L’Abbe, Marjorie LaPrade, Todd Migliacci, Mark Phillips, Joe Scurio, Joe Tomaino, and Kevin Walsh. Two Dartmouth residents studying television production at college have been a tremendous asset to many of the

146 remote shoots – Mike Fernandes from Emerson College and John Gotlib from the New England Institute of Technology.

The commentating staff for sports coverage included Ian Abreu, Paul Brasells, John Cabral, David Finer, Derek Frates, Rick Jalbert, Bill Kavanaugh, Jim McGonigle, Shawn Medeiros, Jim Mullins, Paul O’Connor, Paul Santos, Jim Thompson, Ed Wiley, and Bill Young.

Without the help of these dedicated high school volunteers, college work-study interns, as well as the commentating staff, DCTV would not be able to provide coverage of as many games as we do, as well as the variety of games as we do.

High school sports programming on DCTV included football, boys and girl’s basketball, ice hockey, boys and girl’s soccer, field hockey, baseball, softball, and volleyball. We followed the high school football team throughout their playoff run, which included a Super Bowl game at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA in December, and worked closely with the Kraft Production Group to bring the game back to Dartmouth.

At the University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth, we covered football, men’s and women’s basketball, and ice hockey. After the ice hockey team was crowned ECAC Division III Champions and received a bid into the NCAA Tournament, staff members Peter and David, the production truck, and a production crew of six people followed them to Middlebury, VT in March for a second-round game against Middlebury College.

Volunteer Jim Travers was instrumental in putting together a number of programs that aired on Channel 18. Along with a number of Dartmouth Middle School students, Mr. Travers hosted a LIVE Town Meeting Preview program that started 30 minutes before each session. He also hosted a number of programs that dealt with education issues.

Staff Accomplishments Technical Manager Peter Chasse continued to update equipment throughout the year. DCTV will soon have a new and improved playback system, which will feature a two-terabyte video server. If all goes well, this new system should go on-line sometime during the spring of 2008.

Operations Coordinator David Finer spent a large portion of the year working with students from the Dartmouth Public School

147 System. In the spring, he worked extensively with Dartmouth Middle School Guidance Counselor Kim Hebert and 20 students on a series of programs entitled, “Kids Want To Know.” Over the summer, David led a summer internship program of six students who were getting ready to enter Dartmouth High School and continued to work with them throughout the fall season. He directed many of the sporting and music events along with Derek, highlighted by the MIAA Division 1 Super Bowl at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA.

Production Coordinator Derek Frates completed his first full year of service with DCTV in 2007. Included among his many accomplishments: directing various sporting events at the high school and college level, including the DHS Indians triumphant victory over Brockton in the MIAA Division 1 Playoffs; production of an in-depth documentary about the Buttonwood Park Zoo; integral participation in the creation of Ampers&nd, the first regional television series produced by DCTV and distributed throughout the South Coast; and high achievements in a Special Effects Course at the Rhode Island School of Design.

In 2007, the Director of Media, Cynthia Marland received her Doctorate of Education. She also received a National Research Award from the National Council on Aging for her dissertation entitled, “An Evaluation of Programs on Aging in New England.” Cynthia presented at the Massachusetts Council on Aging Conference with two clinical psychologists in a discussion called “The Challenge of Aging and Confronting Ageism for the Elder and the Boomer Turning Sixty.”

ANNUAL REPORT

CALENDAR YEAR 2007

GREATER NEW BEDFORD REGIONAL VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL

School Committee

Rita M. Ribeiro, Chair, New Bedford David S. Darmo fal, Vice-Chair, Fairhaven Norman Bergeron, New Bedford Randall C. Durrigan, Fairhaven

148 Dr. Thomas E. Kelly, Dartmouth John P. Montigny, Dartmouth Joaquim “Jack” Nobrega, New Bedford Frederick J. Toomey, New Bedford

School Administration

Michael R. Shea, Superintendent-Director Richard R. Dupuis, Business Manager Michael P. Gagliardi, Principal for Career and Technical Education Linda Enos, Academic Principal

Overview of the School

Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School is a four-year vocational / technical high school for young men and women. The school provides career and technical education as well as academic instruction to students from New Bedford, Dartmouth and Fairhaven. With roots dating back to 1908, it opened as a regional vocational technical high school in 1977.

As of October 1, 2007, there were 2,022 students enrolled in grades 9-12. Of those, 1,580 lived in New Bedford, 188 lived in Dartmouth, and 254 lived in Fairhaven.

Many graduates become leaders in business and industry in the region. Many continue their education. In a typical class, 65-70% of the graduates chose to continue their education, either at colleges, universities or technical schools. Another 30-35% directly enters the workforce and approximately 2% enters the armed forces.

Accreditation. GNB Voc-Tech is an accredited member of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, the regional accrediting body for secondary schools in New England. Faculty members are licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Education.

Career Majors. GNB Voc-Tech offers more than two dozen career and technical education programs. During the past year, career majors included Architectural Drafting, Automotive Technology, Carpentry, Collision Repair Technology, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Dental Assisting, Diesel Service Technology, Drafting Technology, Early Childhood Education and Teaching, Electrical Technology, Electromechanical Drafting, Engineering Technology, Environmental Science and Technology, Fashion Design, HVAC/R– Appliance Technology, Information Support Services and Networking, Information Technology, Legal and Protective Services, Machine Technology, Media Technology, Medical Assisting, Nurse Assisting/Health Assisting, Office Technology, Plumbing and Pipe Fitting, Programming and Web Development, Residential Remodeling & Design, Steam Engineering, Visual Design, and Welding/Sheet Metal.

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College Placements. Students who graduate from GNB Voc-Tech can go on to college, and many do. Students have been accepted at a host of two-year and four-year colleges as well as schools which provide advanced technical training.

Earning College Credits / Tech Prep Affiliations. While still at GNB Voc-Tech, students can earn college credit for some of their course work. We have Tech Prep agreements with nearly one dozen schools, including Bristol Community College and Massasoit Community College, which enable our students to work toward a college or technical degree while at Voc-Tech. This allows students to accelerate their degree and save money.

Extra-Curricular Activities. The school offers a large selection of extra-curricular activities. Students can join the Bears Against Risky Behavior (Student Safety Committee), Bowling Club, Business Professionals of America, Chess Club, Drama Club, Environmental/Outdoor Club, Gay/Straight Alliance, Honor Bowl, Internet Club, Karate Club, Multicultural Club, Non-Traditional Careers Group, Peer Leadership, Peer Mediation, Photography Club, Poetry Club, Renaissance Program, Rowing Club, Sailing Club, Ski Club, SkillsUSA, Spotlight Program, Student Advisory Committee, Students Against Destructive Decisions (S.A.D.D.), Urban Dance Group, Women in Technology or the Yearbook staff. Top academic achievers join the National Honor Society.

Sports / Recreation Programs. Students interested in sports have a wide range of choices at GNB Voc-Tech. These offerings include football, soccer, cross country, winter track, spring track, volleyball, golf, ice hockey, lacrosse, basketball, baseball, and softball. Additionally, students participate in weight conditioning, fall and winter cheerleading and intramural sports.

Highlights of the Year 2007 During 2007, there were major changes at the school. A long-time member of the School Committee resigned and become the District Treasurer soon after. Another Committee member resigned after moving out of the district. We appointed people to several high- level jobs to fill vacancies created by retirements and promotions. Parents and faculty created a Boosters Club to support our athletic programs. Student attendance improved. The state selected us as a 2007 Commonwealth Compass School. More than 70% of our graduating seniors indicated that they planned to continue their education after high school. MCAS scores improved – again – and our school was removed from a state “watch” list. We agreed to house a field office for a professional association of voc-tech administrators. We again received a huge number of applications from would-be freshmen.

Our students won medals in regional and statewide SkillsUSA competitions. We learned that we would host the SkillsUSA district competition in the spring of 2008. Students from our new Office Technology program won state and national awards in Business Professionals of America (BPA) competitions. Our Media Technology program launched

150 a new student newspaper. The school undertook a series of off-campus construction projects. Students were inducted into the National Honor Society. The school, students and staff received many awards and accolades. Students earned state and national certifications. We ran another successful Computer Camp. Our Theatre Company continued to grow in popularity. We started planning for a comprehensive self-study of the school.

Several Key Positions Filled

Because of a series of retirements, promotions, and resignations there were several new faces in top leadership roles at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School during 2007. The school announced the appointment of seven administrators, three to replace administrators who were retiring, two to fill jobs left vacant by resignations, and two to fill positions left vacant by promotions.

Plumbing and Pipe Fitting teacher Thaddeus J. “Ted” Haggerty was promoted to the position of Coordinator of the Construction and Drafting Cluster. In that position, he will develop budgets, oversee curriculum, and supervise teachers in six career and technical education programs: Architectural Drafting, Carpentry, Electromechanical Drafting, Electrical Technology, Plumbing and Pipe Fitting, and Residential Remodeling and Design. Mr. Haggerty succeeded James F. Mosley, who retired.

Culinary Arts teacher Robert J. Watt was promoted to the position of Coordinator of the Education, Health Services and Hospitality Cluster. In that role, he will develop budgets, oversee curriculum, and supervise teachers in five career and technical education programs: Culinary Arts, Dental Assisting, Early Childhood Education and Teaching, Health Services, and Medical Assisting. He succeeded Richard “Rick” Brown, who retired.

Michael Wildrick was appointed Information Technology Director, replacing James Cafferty, who resigned to take a similar position at another school. Mr. Wildrick formerly served as our school’s Network Administrator.

James Igoe was appointed Facilities Manager to replace James Tassinari, who resigned to take a similar position at another school. Mr. Igoe formerly worked in management at the Polaroid Corporation in the New Bedford Business Park.

James L. O’Brien, Director of the school’s Adult Education Program, was appointed Dean of Student Affairs, succeeding Janet D. Smith, who retired at the end of the 2006-2007 school year.

Robert M. Pimental was appointed Student Services and School Facilities Director to fill the vacancy created by Mr. O’Brien’s promotion.

151 Social Studies teacher Paul Rodrigues, Jr. was appointed head of the Social Studies department. That job was previously held by Michael P. Gagliardi, who was appointed in late 2006 as Principal for Career and Technical Education.

School Committee Changes

There were several changes on the district School Committee. After more than two decades of service as a member of the Committee, Raymond Sylvia of Fairhaven announced his resignation.

The vacancy was filled by David S. Darmofal of Fairhaven. Mr. Darmofal, a graduate of the school and retired business leader, served on the Building Committee that oversaw our recent $22 million addition and renovation project.

Mr. Darmofal graduated from the school’s Electronics program in 1965. He was employed as Area Operations Manager for Verizon until his retirement in 2003 after nearly 38 years of service. He is chairman of the board of Southern Mass Credit Union in Fairhaven.

Mr. Darmofal has a long connection to the school and to his town. He served on the School Building Committee and the Advisory Committee for the school’s Electrical Technology program. He currently chairs the Fairhaven Council on Aging and serves as a member of the North Fairhaven Improvement Association. He is a former member of the Fairhaven Finance Committee and former precinct chairman for North Fairhaven Precinct 3.

Another vacancy occurred upon the resignation of School Committee chair Michael S. Kalisz, who left the position after moving out of the district.

Mr. Kalisz was succeeded by Frederick J. Toomey of New Bedford.

Mr. Toomey has been associated with Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School and its predecessor institution, New Bedford Vocational High School, for several decades. He graduated from the school’s Electrical program in 1963. He became a member of the governing body of the school, then known as the Board of Trustees, from 1972 to 1978 and served as its chairman from 1975-1976.

He was employed as an Electrical Technology teacher at the school for 26 years. He served on a Massachusetts Department of Education committee that helped develop the state’s curriculum frameworks in Electrical Technology. He retired from teaching in 2005.

Mr. Toomey previously served on the New Bedford Airport Commission. He held a variety of positions with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)

152 Local 224/223. He served as Assistant Business Manager, Secretary and a member of the Executive Board.

A Vietnam veteran, Mr. Toomey now works part-time as Clerk of the Works for the New Bedford Housing Authority.

School Committee Leadership

In May of 2007, the School Committee held its annual organizational meeting.

Michael S. Kalisz of New Bedford was elected chair. David S. Darmofal was elected vice-chair.

Following Mr. Kalisz’s resignation from the Committee in the fall of 2007, Rita M. Ribeiro of New Bedford was elected chair.

New District Treasurer

In February of 2007, the School Committee voted to appoint Raymond Sylvia of Fairhaven as its new District Treasurer.

Mr. Sylvia, a former member of the District School Committee, was unanimously appointed to the part-time position.

He succeeded Atty. Arthur J. Caron.

Students Join School Committee

Two students joined the School Committee as student representatives during 2007.

Brenda Tamayo of New Bedford joined the School Committee as its student representative in February 2007. At the time, Ms. Tamayo was a senior majoring in Office Technology. Soon after, she relocated to Texas.

Student Carina Medeiros joined the Committee in September. She was majoring in Early Childhood Education and Teaching.

The District School Committee sets policy and approves the budget for the school. The eight-member Committee includes four members from New Bedford and two each from Dartmouth and Fairhaven. A student serves as the ninth, non-voting member of the group.

153 District Budget and Assessment

The District’s total budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2008 was $30,222,183. Of this amount, the City of New Bedford was responsible for 78.6%, the Town of Fairhaven was responsible for 11.3%, and the Town of Dartmouth was responsible for 10.1%.

For fiscal year 2008, the District’s total assessment to the three member communities was $7,830,841. This figure represented 25.9% of the total District budget.

Each year, the school district works hard to keep its budget at the required net school spending level.

State Grants

The Massachusetts Department of Education awarded the school approximately $1.6 million in grants for the 2007-2008 school year.

The state awarded grants to enhance technology; improve career and technical education programs; provide professional development for teachers; provide CPR and First Aid training; run a technical reading program; improve education for economically disadvantaged students; and provide academic support services.

By law, these funds must be used to supplement, but not supplant, the district budget.

School Secures Curriculum Grant

Late in 2007, we learned that our school would be sharing in a $40,000 state grant to develop statewide Curriculum Frameworks for Criminal Justice programs.

For two years, our school has been running a Legal and Protective Services program-using curriculum developed by our teachers, staff, administrators, and members of the Program Advisory Committee. With the help of this state grant, we will now develop Frameworks for similar programs throughout the state.

Also sharing in the state grant are four other schools: Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School, Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical School, Southeastern Regional Vocational School District, and Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School.

School Gets Grant from Best Buy

In the spring of 2007, Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School was awarded a grant from a national retail giant to support its science department. The school received a $2,500 Best Buy Teach Award, which recognizes and rewards schools that make learning fun by integrating interactive technology into the curriculum.

154 Pamela Baptiste, a science teacher at GNB Voc-Tech, applied for the award on behalf of the school.

Mrs. Baptiste was presented with the $2,500 grant by Store Manager Norman McCarthy on March 19. Mr. McCarthy turned out to be one of Mrs. Baptiste’s former science students.

The money was used to enhance technology in our science department. It was used to purchase a laptop, digital camera, wireless mouse, rechargeable batteries, flash drive, digital media, CDs, and DVDs.

Parents Give the School a Financial “Boost”

During 2007, parents, coaches and faculty members at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School formed a Booster Club to provide financial support for athletic programs at Voc-Tech…and to recognize and honor the students who take part in them.

The Voc-Tech School Committee voted to endorse creation of the Boosters Club at its meeting in May. The idea was presented to the School Committee by Henry DeGrace, a Diesel Service Technology teacher at the school and father of two Voc-Tech students.

“What we want to do,” said Mr. DeGrace, “is to support athletic programs at Voc-Tech and the young men and women who take part in them.”

The group’s initial goal is to raise funds to purchase plaques to honor student athletes. Next, the group wants to generate funds to purchase weight room equipment, laundry room equipment, and provide scholarships for Voc-Tech athletes.

Mr. DeGrace emphasized that the Boosters Club is designed to support all athletic programs, not just one or two. Voc-Tech currently offers more than a dozen sports, including Baseball, Football, Soccer, Winter Track, Basketball, Golf, Softball, Cheerleading, Ice Hockey, Spring Track, Cross Country, Lacrosse, and Volleyball.

The Booster Club is hoping to take over the operation of concessions during all athletic events held at the school.

Student Attendance Improves

Good attendance is critically important. Poor attendance is the leading cause of failing grades. Because of this, Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School expects students to be present – and on time – every day.

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The school has a tough attendance policy. As soon as a student misses three days of school in any quarter, a letter is sent to their parent or guardian advising them that the student has failed to meet the school’s minimum attendance requirements and that he or she will receive a grade of “Incomplete” until they make up the lost time.

An Attendance Mentor is assigned to the students to make sure they are completing their assignments. Students need to stay with their attendance mentors until 4:00 p.m. for three days to make up one day of school.

Students who intentionally skip school – that is, students who are truant – are referred to the Attendance Officer, the Truant Officer, and the courts.

For the 2006-2007 school year, the school boosted student attendance to 96%, up from 95% the previous year.

The school’s goal is to maintain at least a 95% student attendance rate.

As calendar year 2007 drew to a close, student attendance hovered near 96.4%.

Continuing MCAS Improvement

Passing the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exam is a graduation requirement in Massachusetts. Students must pass both the English Language Arts and math portions of the exam – and satisfy all of the school district’s other graduation requirements – in order to receive a diploma. Starting with the Class of 2010, students must also pass the science portion of the exam.

MCAS test results have continued to show steady improvement. As 2007 drew to a close, 99.6% of the students in the Class of 2008 at GNB Voc-Tech had passed the English Language Arts portion of the MCAS exam and 96.8% had passed the math portion of the exam. These figures do not include results from the retest taken in November of 2007. In addition, those who still have not achieved success will have one final chance to take the exam prior to graduation – in March of 2008.

While encouraged by the MCAS results – particularly in English – the school must continue to do everything possible to improve students’ MCAS scores. We need to continue to expect excellence. We need to create an expectation that students will succeed – and excel – the first time they take the test. Finally, we need to continue to encourage students to participate in school-sponsored MCAS tutorial programs.

Under the federal No Child Left Behind Act, all of the nation’s school districts are required to maintain “Adequate Yearly Progress” in their efforts to ensure that all students reach or exceed state competency standards. In Massachusetts, school districts maintain “AYP” by making progress on the MCAS exam.

156 Students Qualify for MCAS Scholarships

Fifty-seven students from Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School qualified for four years of free tuition at one of the state’s public colleges or universities. Students qualify for the merit-based scholarship program based on how well they score on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exam.

In announcing the scholarships, Academic Principal Linda Enos said: “We’re proud of these students. They worked very hard. And this is their reward.”

GNB Voc-Tech students qualifying for free tuition under the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship program included Alyson Aguiar, majoring in Medical Assisting; Justin Almeida, Programming and Web Development; Mariana Alves, Nurse Assisting/Health Assisting; Cori Barboza, Dental Assisting; Kevin Brito, Plumbing & Pipe Fitting; Jessica Bumpus, Media Technology; Monique Camacho, Medical Assisting; Lia Carvalho, Office Technology; Karina Castro, Medical Assisting; Tania Castro, Media Technology; Kayla Conlon, Culinary Arts; Stephanie Cormier, Media Technology; Christopher Cornaglia and Erin Costa, Information Support Services and Networking; Krysta Cunha, Architectural Drafting; Alexander Davidopoulos, Engineering Technology; Kyle Desrosiers, Machine Technology; Mark Desrosiers, Sheet Metal; and Steven Donnelly, Automotive Technology.

Also qualifying were Ryan Dwelly, Engineering Technology; Amanda Eluziario, Medical Assisting; Charles Farrell, Engineering Technology; Rachel Fonseca, Collision Repair Technology; Samantha Francis, Automotive Technology; Jenna Franco, Early Childhood Education and Teaching; Ryan Gauvin, Machine Technology; Aaron Goldblatt, Architectural Drafting; Richard Goldblatt, Engineering Technology; Raymond Gray, Machine Technology; Jessica Jansen, Dental Assisting; Jared Lizotte and Nicholas Lizotte, Electrical Technology; Ngoc Luu, Medical Assisting; Michael McConnell, Carpentry; and Joshua McGinnis, Taylor McMullen, Sean Medeiros, and John Morrissette, Electrical Technology.

Also qualifying were Jackie Moujabber, majoring in Media Technology; Chelsea Nunes, Nurse Assisting/Health Assisting; Karen Parker, Electrical Technology; Joshua Pavao, Engineering Technology; Michael Perreira, Electrical Technology; Nathan Pond and Nathan Portal, Engineering Technology; Jonathan Raposo, Programming and Web Development; Gilbert Santiago, Carpentry; Dymenthia Scott, Electrical Technology; Casheena Gomes Sanchez, Media Technology; Adam Seifert and Cody Shidell, Electrical Technology; Nicolas Skirkey, Information Support Services and Networking; Carlie Vargas, Nurse Assisting/Health Assisting; Zorimel Vargas, Cosmetology; Andrew Vieira, Machine Technology; Amy Vieira, Medical Assisting; and Edmund Voisine, Electrical Technology.

Seven students – Cori Barboza, Lia Carvalho, Kyle Desrosiers, Taylor McMullen, Karen Parker, Nathan Pond, and Nicolas Skirkey – live in Fairhaven.

157 Six students – Stephanie Cormier, Ryan Dwelly, Ryan Gauvin, Jessica Jansen, Michael McConnell, and Andrew Vieira – live in Dartmouth.

The other 44 students live in New Bedford.

A special scholarship awards breakfast was held on December 13.

The Adams scholarship is open to all public school students who score in the “Advanced” category in either the English or math section of the MCAS test and score in at least the “Proficient” category on the other section of the exam by the end of their junior year. The student’s MCAS scores must also rank in the top 25 percent of their school district to qualify.

The scholarship award covers only tuition; it does not cover college fees or room and board.

School Named a 2007 Commonwealth Compass School

Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School has been honored by the state for making significant academic gains over the past year. GNB Voc-Tech was one of 35 schools named a 2007 Commonwealth Compass School. It was the only school from Greater New Bedford so honored.

Superintendent-Director Michael R. Shea, Principal Linda Enos, then-School Committee Chairman John P. Montigny and School Committee member Norman Bergeron attended a ceremony on February 5, 2007 at the State House in Boston to mark this achievement.

Mr. Shea accepted the Compass School award from Massachusetts Education Commissioner David P. Driscoll.

We’re very proud of this award. Our teachers, staff and administrators have all worked very hard to improve our students’ academic achievement.

The Commonwealth Compass Schools designation is based upon students’ performance and improvement on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exam.

The Compass Schools program was established in 2001 as a way for the state to recognize and celebrate individual school improvement, and to encourage the sharing of good ideas and effective practices among educators statewide.

Commonwealth Compass Schools are identified based on the school's overall performance. To be selected a school must have a Composite Performance Index (CPI) of 95 or above in ELA and math, with 40 percent or more performing in the Advanced category in both subjects; or have a 2006 CPI above the state average, and be able to show

158 significant student gains; or the school must have met or exceeded its improvement target, and have an enrollment that includes 40 percent or more disadvantaged students.

School Removed from EQA “Watch” List

In early 2007, several years of hard work by our administrators, faculty and staff bore fruit. The Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (EQA) formally recognized the substantial progress that we had been making to improve the school’s organizational structure, its delivery of services, and the performance of its students.

EQA originally inspected us in the fall of 2003 and issued a lengthy report in the spring of 2004. Its governing board later placed our school on “watch” status and required us to submit quarterly reports to the agency, outlining how we were addressing a series of issues cited in their inspection report.

A six-member team from the Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (EQA) revisited our school from November 6-9, 2006.

Prior to the revisit, we were informed by our EQA monitor and by the Executive Director of EQA that the new inspection team would look only at those areas where our performance was deemed to be deficient by the original inspection team. In actuality, this was not the case. We found that the second inspection team not only looked at the areas where we had been rated “Poor” or “Unsatisfactory”, it even looked at areas where no deficiencies were found in the original inspection.

Despite this unexpected development, we remained confident that this return visit would result in our removal from the EQA “watch” list. For the past several years, we worked tirelessly to address the issues raised by EQA in its initial inspection report. We know that we made substantial progress in each of those areas. And our EQA monitor, Dr. Wilfred Savoie, and the agency’s Executive Director, Dr. Joseph Rappa, had both indicated to us that they are aware of our efforts – and our progress.

On April 2, 2007, Dr. Rappa officially notified Superintendent-Director Michael R. Shea that EQA had removed GNB Voc-Tech from “watch” status and was discontinuing its monitoring efforts.

In a letter to the school, Dr. Rappa wrote, in part, that EQA’s governing body “…wants to commend you and the Greater New Bedford staff for implementing the many changes which have created such notable progress in the academic performance of your students.”

More than 70% of Graduating Students Continue Their Education

In what may come as a surprise to the public, more than seven out of ten students graduating from Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School in 2007 told us they were planning to pursue a post-secondary education.

159 More and more of our students are heading off to college when they leave us.

During 2007, 71.8% of the school’s graduating seniors reported that they plan to attend a college, community college, or advanced technical school in the fall. Another 25.9% said they plan to go directly into the workforce and 1.9% plan to enter the military. Less than 1% of the graduates said they are still deciding what to do or have decided to stay out of the workforce by choice.

This is the first time in the school’s history that more than 70% of its graduating seniors have reported they planned to go to college or other advanced schooling.

During 2006, 65.7% said they would continue their education, 32.2% said they would enter the workforce, and 1.5% said they would join the armed forces.

In recent years, GNB Voc-Tech has seen a steady rise in the percentage of students going to college.

In 2004, 61% of Voc-Tech’s graduates indicated they planned to continue their education – the first time in the school’s history that that more than half of Voc-Tech’s graduates had indicated they planned to continue their education.

Staff Gets Summer Training

Nineteen administrators, teachers and staff members from Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School took part in the largest professional development conference for vocational educators in Massachusetts. They were among 637 educators from across Massachusetts who took part in the “Connecting for Success” Summer Conference held at Assabet Valley Technical High School in Marlborough.

The three-day event, sponsored by the Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators (MAVA), was held from June 26-28, 2007.

It included dozens of workshops focused on a host of educational topics including use of technology in the classroom to improve student learning, aligning curriculum to new state Vocational Technical Education Frameworks, expanding career planning for students, use of data to improve classroom instruction, and use of personnel and program assessment to improve teaching and administration of schools. More than 370 experts made presentations.

Ongoing professional development is important. Teachers and administrators need to stay current in the field.

Those attending from GNB Voc-Tech included Superintendent-Director Michael R. Shea, Principals Linda Enos and Michael P. Gagliardi; Cluster Coordinators Steven C. Sharek, Robert J. Watt, and Thaddeus J. “Ted” Haggerty; and Construction Projects Manager Rob Gomes.

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Also attending were Culinary Arts teachers Kristine Silva and Jennifer Gaumont, Fashion Design teachers Shirley Tavares and Mary Ann Zuber, Office Technology teacher Cathy Chace, Cosmetology teachers Darlene Azadnia and Patricia Carroll-Fingliss, HVAC- R/Appliance Technology teacher Robert Enos, Legal and Protective Services teacher Kellie Martin, English teacher Lisa Koczera, English Language Learners teacher Phebe Ditata, and teaching assistant Evelyn Bouley.

The Connecting for Success Conference is an annual event and is the largest of its type in Massachusetts.

GNB Voc-Tech Houses MAVA Field Office

The Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators, the largest association of vocational administrators in the state, has relocated its field office to Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School.

The group’s new Executive Director, David J. Ferreira, is now located in a second-floor office at GNB Voc-Tech.

“This is a good match,” said Michael R. Shea, Superintendent-Director at GNB Voc-Tech. “We’re very fortunate to have Dave Ferreira and MAVA in our building. It will help out both of us.”

“MAVA appreciates the hospitality of the GNB Voc-Tech school community,” said Mr. Ferreira. “It will be a pleasure working with the staff.”

Mr. Ferreira, who lives in Dartmouth, retired as Superintendent-Director of Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School in Rochester after 16 years of service. He was appointed Executive Director of MAVA, effective July 1.

Mr. Ferreira succeeds David J. Tobin, who is leaving after serving five years as Executive Director. Under Mr. Tobin, MAVA had its field office at Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School in Franklin.

The GNB Voc-Tech School Committee approved the relocation of the MAVA field office to New Bedford at its meeting in May. MAVA’s main office will remain in Abington.

MAVA is a professional association of educational leaders who administer career and technical education programs in Massachusetts schools.

GNB Voc-Tech is one of more than two dozen regional voc-tech high schools which are members of MAVA and participate in its activities. Among other things, MAVA sponsors an annual summer professional development conference for teachers and administrators and runs a Leadership Academy for those aspiring to be middle managers in vocational technical education.

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Voc-Tech Approved as Testing Site

Graduates from the Medical Assisting program at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School will now be able to take five national certifications exams in their field. The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) approved GNB Voc- Tech as a testing site on May 10.

“This is great news for students in our program,” said Pauline O’Brien, R.N., the curriculum leader in the Medical Assisting program at GNB Voc-Tech. “Our graduates will now be able to sit for a series of national certifications, giving them an edge on their peers.”

The National Healthcareer Association has approved the school as a testing site for several national exams, including Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT), Certified EKG Technician (CET), Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS), and Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA).

Previously, Medical Assisting students were only able to take certification exams in First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).

Upon successful completion of the Medical Assisting program, students who meet the necessary requirements may sit for the appropriate national certification exams.

Mrs. O’Brien said successfully passing a national exam through the NHA will improve a student’s chances of getting a job in the medical field or advancing in their medical careers.

Applications Increase

Each year, more and more students are interested in attending Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School. As a result, the admissions process is becomin g more competitive.

For the ninth-grade class that entered in the fall of 2007, there were only 565 seats available.

The school received 985 applications for those seats.

Enrollment decisions are based upon a state-approved admissions plan that considers student attendance, discipline, grades and guidance counselor recommendations.

SkillsUSA

162 SkillsUSA is a national organization for students in trade, industrial, technical and health occupations education. It sponsors the SkillsUSA Championships annually to recognize the achievements of vocational students and to encourage them to strive for excellence and pride in their chosen occupations.

District competition

Students from Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School earned 33 medals at a SkillsUSA competition involving students from eleven high schools in the region. Students from GNB Voc-Tech won 7 gold, 14 silver, and 12 bronze medals in the competition at Upper Cape Cod Regional Vocational Technical High School on March 13, 2007.

GNB Voc-Tech students earned medals in 16 of the 25 events in which they competed. They swept first, second and third place in both the Automated Manufacturing Team Event and Major Appliance Technology.

“We’re proud of what the students accomplished,” said Michael Lipp, an Early Childhood Education teacher and SkillsUSA advisor at GNB Voc-Tech. “They all worked hard and represented our school well.”

Earning gold medals for GNB Voc-Tech were students Kevin Flynn, Jesse Ponte, and Ryan Dwelly in the Automated Manufacturing Team Event; Michael McConnell in Collision Repair Technology; Ryan Benjamin in Food and Beverage Service; Keith Tavares in Major Appliance Technology; and Samantha Mello in Preschool Teaching Assistant.

Students earning silver medals were students Peter DaCosta, Tristan Wade, Andrew Grota in the Automated Manufacturing Team Event; Steven Donnelly in Automotive Service Technology; Colton Choquette in Carpentry; Rachel Fonseca in Collision Repair Technology; Brian Cox in Diesel Equipment Technology; Cury Deschamps in Major Appliance Technology; Lisa Casimiro in Medical Assisting; Colton Simmons in Office Computer Applications; Joshua Pavao and Craig Gregory in the Robotics and Automation Team Event; Vince Fermino in Sheet Metal; and Benjamin Braley, Technical Computer Applications.

Earning bronze medals were Charles Farrell, Nathan Oliveira, and Genri Fletcher in the Automated Manufacturing Team Event; Andrew Amaral, Automotive Service Technology; Stephen Reney Jr., CNC Milling Technology; Brittany Pacheco, Culinary Arts; Derek Silva, Major Appliance Technology; Richard Goldblatt and Nathan Pond, Robotics and Automation Team Event; Thomas Paiva, Sheet Metal; James Bento, Technical Computer Applications; and Timothy Gauvin, Technical Drafting.

Six of the award winners are from Dartmouth: Jesse Ponte, Ryan Dwelly, Stephen Reney Jr., Michael McConnell, Thomas Paiva and Timothy Gauvin.

163 Six of the award winners are from Fairhaven: Nathan Oliveira, Genri Fletcher, Colton Choquette, Brian Cox, Cury Deschamps and Nathan Pond.

The other 21 award winners live in New Bedford.

In addition to Mr. Lipp, several GNB Voc-Tech teachers and staff members attended the competition. They included Debra Allain, Thomas Canastra, Stephen Condon, and Meghan Wolk.

During SkillsUSA competitions, students test their skills in various categories, ranging from computer applications to welding. A total of 102 students from GNB Voc-Tech took part in the district competition. They took a written exam that includes questions that measure trade knowledge as well as employability skills.

Schools competing in the south district included GNB Voc-Tech, Bristol-Plymouth Regional Vocational Technical High School, Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School, Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical School, Cape Cod Regional Technical High School, Southeastern Regional Technical High School, South Shore Regional Technical High School, Brockton High School, Plymouth South High School, Silver Lake Regional High School, and Weymouth Vocational Technical High School.

Statewide competition

Students from Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School earned 11 medals at a recent statewide skills competition. GNB Voc-Tech won three gold medals, five silver medals, and three bronze medals in the competition sponsored by SkillsUSA in Marlboro on April 27-28, 2007.

Gold medal winners from GNB Voc-Tech included Alyssa Fernandes, Krystal Pinto and Yuri Houtman. They won an award in the Chapter Display team event category for an outstanding promotional exhibit on biodiesel as an alternate fuel source.

Winning silver medals were Sean Carney for Prepared Speech, Samantha Mello for Preschool Teaching Assistant, Richard Goldblatt and Nathan Pond for the Robotics and Automation Technology team event, and James Bento for Technical Computer Applications.

Earning bronze medals were Ryan Benjamin for Food and Beverage Service, Rachel Fonseca for Collision Repair Technology, and Benjamin Braley for Technical Computer Applications.

Nine of the winners live in New Bedford. Two – Krystal Pinto and Nathan Pond – live in Fairhaven.

The three gold medallists are now eligible to compete in the national championships in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Fifty-three students from GNB Voc-Tech participated.

Advisors from GNB Voc-Tech attending the state SkillsUSA competition included Mr. Lipp, Debra Allain, Deborah Brightman, Thomas Canastra, Stephen Condon, Robert Enos, Jennifer Gaumont, Carole Girouard, Robert Leclair, Marvin McFall, Sue Richard, Joanne Romanelli, Paul Sylvia, and Meghan Wolk.

During SkillsUSA competitions, students test their skills in various categories, ranging from computer applications to welding.

National competition

In June 2007, students Alyssa Fernandes, Krystal Pinto and Yuri Houtman competed in the national SkillsUSA competition in Kansas City, Missouri.

They became eligible to compete in the national competition when they earned a gold medal at the Massachusetts SkillsUSA Chapter Display team event category.

State Leadership Conference

Fifteen student leaders from Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School were among hundreds of students who took part in a statewide student leadership conference in Marlborough. The event, held November 18-20, 2007, was sponsored by Massachusetts SkillsUSA.

GNB Voc-Tech students attending the Fall State Leadership Conference included Sarah Andrade, William Barboza, Joshua Berube, Sean Carney, Joseph DeMello, Aaron Eddleston, Aaron Fineberg, Casey Freitas, Phat Luu, Leah Murphy, Michael Parker, Jillian Raposa, Cortney Rebello, Jennifer Vargas, and Jaryd Walker.

The Fall State Leadership Conference is designed for Chapter Advisors and Chapter Officers to help them build strong SkillsUSA chapters at their schools. Participants undergo intensive leadership training in areas such as communication skills, group dynamics, and employability skills.

Students who attended received leadership pins by completing a checklist demonstrating knowledge about SkillsUSA.

The students met peers from 42 other Massachusetts SkillsUSA chapters including 25 other vocational-technical high schools.

Students from GNB Voc-Tech were chosen by their teachers and were given this opportunity because of their outstanding ability in their career and technical field and their potential for becoming leaders in the community and in their SkillsUSA chapters.

165 Several teachers accompanied the students to the conference. They included SkillsUSA chapter advisor Michael Lipp, English teachers Meghan Lacasse and Lisa Koczera, and Information Technology teacher Maciel Pais.

Business Professionals of America

State Competition

In just their second year taking part, students from our Office Technology program earned 13 awards at a statewide competition involving hundreds of their peers. The State Leadership Conference, held March 10-12, 2007, in Framingham, was sponsored by Business Professionals of America (BPA), a national organization for students preparing for careers in business and information technology.

Five students from GNB Voc-Tech took home first-place awards.

“I’m thrilled,” said Cathy M. Chace, a teacher in the Office Technology program at GNB Voc-Tech. “It’s wonderful for our students and it’s great for our program.”

This is only the second year that students from GNB Voc-Tech have entered the BPA competition. And it is only the third year that the Office Technology program has been in existence at GNB Voc-Tech. Because of their success at the state conference, eight of the 12 students from GNB Voc-Tech who competed are now eligible to take part in the national BPA competition in New York City in May.

The school’s four-member Administrative Support Team took first-place honors at the event. Team members included four seniors: Alyssa Costa, Kayla Perry, Krystal Pacheco, and Meaghan Medeiros. Ms. Medeiros lives in Dartmouth. The other three live in New Bedford.

Also earning a first-place award was junior Chelsey Mendonca, who competed in Basic Office Systems and Procedures. Ms. Mendonca lives in Fairhaven.

Three students from GNB Voc-Tech earned third-place awards: senior Alyssa Costa in Basic Office Systems and Procedures, junior Danielle Mello in Fundamental Word Processing, and junior Chelsey Mendonca in Keyboarding Productions. Ms. Costa lives in New Bedford. Ms. Mello and Ms. Mendonca live in Fairhaven.

Three students from GNB Voc-Tech earned fourth-place awards: junior Lia Carvalho in Interview Skills, senior Krystal Pacheco in Fundamental Word Processing, and junior Shanelle Warmack in Spreadsheet Applications and Analysis. Ms. Carvalho lives in Fairhaven. The others live in New Bedford.

Two students from GNB Voc-Tech earned fifth-place awards: senior Kayla Perry in Advanced Interview Skills and junior Hugo Brito in Spreadsheet Applications and Analysis. Both live in New Bedford.

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National competition

In May of 2007, four students from Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School earned a place in the spotlight by finishing third in a national competition in New York City.

The students – all part of our Office Technology program – earned the awards for excelling in the Administrative Support Team competition at the Business Professionals of America (BPA) 2007 National Leadership Conference. BPA is a national organization for students preparing for careers in business and information technology.

Seniors Alyssa Costa, Meaghan Medeiros, Krystal Pacheco, and Kayla Perry received plaques and medals for their accomplishment. The awards were announced on May 12.

“I’m so proud of what these four young women and their teachers have accomplished,” said Steven C. Sharek, Coordinator of the Arts, Communication and Consumer Services Cluster. “It’s a real honor for them. And it’s a real boost for the Office Technology program.” This is only the second year that students from GNB Voc-Tech have entered BPA competitions. And it is only the third year that the Office Technology program has been in existence at the school.

Eight members of the local BPA chapter joined 6,000 other conference delegates from across the nation to participate in national-level business skill competitions, workshops, general sessions, and the national officer candidate campaigns and elections.

Also attending from GNB Voc-Tech were Office Technology majors Lia Carvalho, Danielle Mello, Chelsey Mendonca, and Shanelle Warmack.

To help pay for the conference, students raised more than $3,000 with a marketing project, dress down day, and direct solicitations of corporate, private and individual sponsors. The sponsors included PACE, Inc.; Southern Mass Credit Union; New Bedford Welding Supply; New Bedford Credit Union; Eye Health Associates; Superior Drywall, Inc.; SITEC Civil and Environmental Engineering, Steven Gioiosa, and Janet Medeiros.

Students earned the right to compete at the National Leadership Conference because of their success at a BPA state competition in Framingham in March.

BPA is a national organization for high school, college and middle school students preparing for careers in business and information technology.

Student Newspaper Launched

In September of 2007, students launched The Voice, a student newspaper. This new publication will be issued periodically by students in the Media Technology program.

167 In February of 2006, students launched the school's first magazine, Visions.

Media Technology is a four-year program designed for students planning careers in communications.

National Honor Society Induction

On October 3, 2007, 53 students were inducted into the National Honor Society chapter at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School.

The students – 8 seniors and 45 juniors – were inducted into the Technical Chapter of the National Honor Society in ceremonies held in the William R. Macintosh Auditorium at GNB Voc-Tech.

Sue Demers, Scheduling and Reporting Specialist at the school, was the keynote speaker. Ms. Demers, a 1992 graduate of GNB Voc-Tech, formerly served as President of the Voc- Tech Alumni Association.

The inductees included seniors Jacklyn Araujo, Early Childhood Education and Teaching; Lilian Baptiste, Fashion Design; Sarah Barlow, Media Technology; Eliasary Canelon, Fashion Design; James Feliciano, Engineering Technology; Kristen Guillotte, majoring in Cosmetology; Chelsea Nunes, Health Services; and Karen Parker, Electrical Technology.

The inductees also included juniors Shaun Alger, majoring in Machine Technology; Aramis Arias, Electrical Technology; Brandon Babineau, Office Technology; Shawndrae Barreto, Media Technology; Katelynn Bento, Media Technology; Thea Blais, Media Technology; James Braley, Programming and Web Development; Chelsie Christianson, Medical Assisting; Alyssa Correia, Culinary Arts; Peter DaCosta, Engineering Technology; Joseph DeMello, Information Support Services and Networking; Brooke Desnoyers, Medical Assisting; Tania DeSousa, Cosmetology; Aaron Eddleston, Steam Engineering; Holly Edwards, Medical Assisting; Brittany Farias, Early Childhood Education and Teaching; Ashley Fidalgo, Architectural Drafting; Genri Fletcher, Engineering Technology; Marc Frey, Electrical Technology; Kayla Gelinas, Electromechanical Drafting; John Girouard, Plumbing and Pipe Fitting; and Justin Gomes, Architectural Drafting.

The inductees also included juniors Luis Gomez, majoring in Electrical Technology; Jossean Gonzalez, Steam Engineering; Brianne Gracie, Cosmetology; Andrew Grota, Engineering Technology; Beth Lally, Engineering Technology; Kayla Lamarr-Fiano, Medical Assisting; Richard Largey, Carpentry; Shane Lavoie, Media Technology; Chelsea LeBlanc, Dental Assisting; Heather Lemaire, Engineering Technology; Jacob Levasseur, Engineering Technology; Phat Luu, Machine Technology; Candice McCarty, Early Childhood Education and Teaching; Andrew Medeiros, Architectural Drafting; Samantha Mello, Early Childhood Education and Teaching; La’Toyia Miles, Medical Assisting; Alyssa Pimentel, Media Technology; Sarah Romanowicz, Early Childhood Education and Teaching; Elisa Santos, Early Childhood Education and Teaching; Jessica Travassos,

168 Visual Design; Derek Vieira, HVAC-R/Appliance Technology; Jaryd Walker, Information Support Services and Networking; and Jillian Whitehead, Health Services.

Three inductees live in Dartmouth: Brooke Desnoyers, Alyssa Pimentel, and Jaryd Walker.

Ten inductees live in Fairhaven: Shaun Alger, Aaron Eddleston, Brittany Farias, Ashley Fidalgo, Genri Fletcher, Beth Lally, Richard Largey, Shane Lavoie, Heather Lemaire, and Jacob Levasseur.

The other inductees live in New Bedford.

More than 100 family members and friends attended the ceremonies. Among those in attendance were Superintendent-Director Michael R. Shea, Principal Linda Enos, and Principal Michael P. Gagliardi.

The National Honor Society chapter at GNB Voc-Tech has two advisors: Library Media Specialist Carole Girouard and English department head Susan I. Richard.

The National Honor Society is the nation's premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. The Society serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, and character.

Awards and Honors

School Selected to Host SkillsUSA District Competition

Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School will host the 2008 SkillsUSA south district competition, an event that draws hundreds of students from nearly a dozen schools in Southeastern Massachusetts.

The event will be held on March 13, 2008. More than 700 high school students are expected to take part.

We see this as a great opportunity to show off our school.

For more than a decade, the south district competition has been hosted by Upper Cape Regional Technical School in Bourne. But the event has grown too large for that school to accommodate.

GNB Voc-Tech – a larger school with larger facilities – was asked to host the event. The Voc-Tech School Committee voted 6-0 to support the idea.

169 During SkillsUSA competitions, students test their skills in various categories, ranging from computer applications to welding. In the district competition, they take a written exam that includes questions that measure trade knowledge as well as employability skills.

Students who win medals in the district competition compete at the Massachusetts SkillsUSA competition. At the state event, they participate in a hands-on competition against other winners from other regions of the state.

Schools competing in the south district include GNB Voc-Tech, Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School, Bristol-Plymouth Regional Vocational Technical High School, Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical School, Cape Cod Regional Technical High School, Southeastern Regional Technical High School, South Shore Regional Technical High School, Brockton High School, Plymouth South High School, Silver Lake Regional High School, and Weymouth Vocational Technical High School.

Students Earn Awards for Work on Student Magazine

Two students majoring in Media Technology at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School won awards for their contributions to the school’s award-winning student magazine, Visions.

Junior Nakita Melo earned a certificate of merit for artwork she submitted to the Columbia Press Association’s Gold Circle Awards competition. Ms. Melo’s artwork, titled "Dr. Dingbat and Nurse Dee Dee", was originally published in the fall 2006 issue of Visions, the student magazine at GNB Voc-Tech. An award show was held at Columbia University in New York.

Sophomore Sean Carney earned an award in the fiction category for a story he submitted to a student journalism competition. Mr. Carney’s article, "The First Show", was originally written for an English course taught by Joanne Moniz and was published in the December 2006 holiday issue of Visions. It won a fiction prize at the 37th Annual Scholastic Press Forum, held by the American International College in Springfield, Massachusetts.

“We’re very proud of these two talented young students,” said Maureen Lacasse, lead teacher in the Media Tech program at GNB Voc-Tech. “They are just two of the reasons why the magazine and the Media Tech program have been so successful.”

Mr. Carney is a member of the Voc-Tech Theatre Company and has been a cast member of several school plays. He is a member of the school’s SkillsUSA team, golf team, and junior varsity lacrosse team. He has won several Renaissance awards for academic achievement.

170 Nakita Melo is a member of the school’s Photography Club, Journalism Club, and Gay/Straight Alliance. She has won several Renaissance awards for academic achievement.

Both students are frequent contributors to the student magazine. Both live in New Bedford.

This is just the second year of operation for the student magazine, which is overseen by Media Technology staff members Maureen Lacasse and Bill Gauthier. Last year, the magazine and its student contributors won four-student journalism awards.

The publication is written, edited and printed by students in the school’s Media Technology program, and students from throughout the school are encouraged to submit articles and artwork.

Collision Repair Tech Student Wins Top Scholarship

Rachel Fonseca, a Collision Repair Technology major at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School, was the top winner in a nationwide essay contest sponsored by the collision repair industry. As a result, Miss Fonseca will receive a $5,000 scholarship to further her education.

The essay writing contest was sponsored by the I-CAR Education Foundation, in conjunction with Akzo Nobel Coatings, Inc. and The Most Influential Women of the Collision Repair Industry.

Rachel Fonseca won the top prize for all high school students in the country. Students from 359 career and technical schools and colleges were eligible to apply.

Upon graduation from Voc-Tech, Miss Fonseca plans to attend college. She is a member of the local chapter of the National Honor Society and is ranked twelfth in the senior class of nearly 440. She has won academic awards from the school’s Renaissance program. She has competed in soccer, ice hockey, and softball. Last year, she placed third in collision repair in the Massachusetts SkillsUSA competition.

Collision Repair Technology is one of more than two dozen majors offered at GNB Voc- Tech. The program is certified by the National Automotive Technician Educational Foundation (NATEF) and by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

Students Earn Awards in Faux Finishing Competition

Several students from Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School earned awards at an annual conference sponsored by the New England Council of the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA). The students, all majoring in

171 Residential Remodeling and Interior Design at GNB Voc-Tech, participated in a “Faux Finish Contest” on November 2 at Mt. Snow in Vermont.

Teachers Guy Shepherd and Patricia Allen brought ten students to the conference, which was attended by over 100 students from around New England. The conference was designed to showcase students’ faux finishing skills.

Faux finishing is an interior decorating technique. The word “faux” means “false”. It refers to the technique of making one material look like another, such as making a fiberglass column look like it was made of marble.

Peter Bruce, a junior at GNB Voc-Tech, took first place with his sponged mixed glazing technique, with natural leaf stencils.

Senior Jessica Silva took second place with her mixed glazing and stencil technique.

Junior Cherrelle Hunter took third place with her stone textured technique.

Honorable mentions were awarded to GNB Voc-Tech seniors Tova-Leigh Correia, Megan Cosme, Nicole Vieira, and Gabreal Tomkiewicz and to juniors Sofia Guerra, Alyssa Souza, and John Rosario.

Peter Bruce and Nicole Vieira live in Dartmouth. Gabreal Tomkiewicz lives in Fairhaven. The other students live in New Bedford.

Residential Remodeling and Design is one of more than two dozen majors at GNB Voc- Tech. It is a two-year program for juniors and seniors.

The Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) is a trade association with over 3,200 members in the United States and Canada. The association’s mission is to provide educational opportunities for its members in areas such as safety, business, management, and technical procedures and to raise the level of professionalism in the trade.

Students Earn National Drafting Certifications

Nine students from Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School have been certified as Apprentice Drafters by the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA).

The students – who all majored in Electromechanical Drafting – include Rita Brayton, Caitlin Galligo, Jennifer Soares, Jarred Carvalho, Timothy Gauvin, Miguel Guzman, Nathan Sears, Jay Souza, and Dean Silvia.

172 Ms. Brayton, Ms. Galligo, Mr. Carvalho and Mr. Guzman live in New Bedford. Ms. Soares, Mr. Gauvin, Mr. Sears and Mr. Souza live in Dartmouth. Mr. Silvia lives in Fairhaven.

To earn this distinction, the students were required to complete all of their work in the ADDA-approved course curriculum with at least a “B” average and meet other performance criteria set by their teacher.

The students received a certificate of completion for the accomplishment. In addition, they will be able to join ADDA upon graduation, without having to take the Association’s qualification test.

Two years ago, the American Design Drafting Association certified the curriculum for the Architectural Drafting and Electromechanical Drafting programs at GNB Voc-Tech. Certification means that the design/drafting curriculum meets the standards established and approved by the American Design Drafting Association.

ADDA approval required a complete review of Voc-Tech’s drafting programs to ensure that they met the standards of the drafting industry, including an evaluation of curriculum, equipment, and textbooks, and verification of faculty qualifications.

Students Earn National Appliance Repair Certifications

Eight students at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School earned national certification as service technicians in Major Appliance Repair. The students – six juniors and two seniors – are majoring in HVAC-R/Appliance Technology at GNB Voc-Tech.

Students earning national certification include juniors Katherine Hardy, Mark Correia, Darien Jacintho, Gary Gagne, Justin Lapre, and Derek Vieira as well as seniors José Vargas and Daniel Vello.

Mr. Vello lives in Fairhaven. The other seven live in New Bedford.

“We’re very proud of these students,” said Stephen Ellis, one of the teachers in the HVAC-R/Appliance Technology program at GNB Voc-Tech. Mr. Ellis noted that this is the first time that the school has offered students a chance to take these national exams.

To earn national certification, the students needed to pass eight different comprehensive examinations, which measure their skills in consumer relations, diagnostic techniques and repair ability for all types of domestic major appliances. The students took the exams late last spring and got the results over the summer.

The students are among a select group of major appliance service technicians in the United States to be certified as Certified Appliance Professionals with a Graduate Technician rating. The Graduate Technician rating is the highest available level of

173 recognition for technical expertise given by the major home appliance industry to high school students.

Certification is strictly voluntary and only those who possess extraordinary skills in the field of appliance repair will attempt the rigorous testing procedure.

Both Mr. Ellis and fellow teacher Robert Enos are certified as Master Technicians.

The Professional Service Association, the group that offers the certification, is a not-for- profit trade association representing independent appliance and electronic service centers. The certification programs developed by PSA are designed to encourage excellence and pride in our industry.

Diagnosing and repairing today’s sophisticated appliances requires special skills and constant training to keep abreast of changing technologies. Technicians that make the effort to maintain the high level excellence necessary to become a Certified Appliance Professional are proud of their skills and deserve to be recognized by their profession.

Students Earn EPA Certifications

Fourteen seniors at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School have received federal certifications allowing them to work on refrigeration and air conditioning equipment. The students – David Baker, Jayme Bertoldo, Matthew Cabral, Brandon Cote, Joshua Furtado, Alfons Koka, Jeffrey Melo, Robert Nelson, Preston Newman, Kenneth Pimental, Jordan Schofield, Kyle Silvia, Jarid Sousa and Tyler Sylvia – successfully completed their Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Section 608 exam and the Universal R-410A Safety and Training certification exam.

“The students worked hard to get these certifications, and we’re very proud of them,” said James Gardiner, a teacher in the heating, ventilation refrigeration, air conditioning and appliance technology program. “Getting these federal certifications is an important part of our trade.”

Brandon Cote and Kenneth Pimental live in Fairhaven. Joshua Furtado and Kyle Silvia live in Dartmouth. The other ten young men live in New Bedford.

Passing the Section 608 certification enables the young men to work on any small appliance, high pressure and low pressure refrigeration and air conditioning equipment. The 410A certification allows them to safely handle and work with the new high pressure refrigerants being introduced to the HVAC-R trade.

HVAC/R Appliance Technology is one of more than two dozen career majors offered at GNB Voc-Tech. As part of their career and technical training at the school, students in many of the programs are able to secure state or federal licenses and certificates.

Students Earn National Automotive Certifications

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After taking a battery of professional-level exams, twenty-one Automotive Technology students at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School recently earned a total of 59 national certifications.

The students – all graduating seniors – sat for AYES/ASE (Automotive Youth Educational Systems / Automotive Service Excellence) exit exams. The exams were administered in four areas: A4 Steering and Suspension, A5 Brakes, A6 Electrical/Electronics, and A8 Engine Performance.

“We are proud of our students and what they’ve accomplished,” said Kenneth Sylvia, curriculum leader in the Automotive Technology program at GNB Voc-Tech. “These national test results show that our graduates can compete with anyone.”

Many of the students will be entering the work force while others are continuing their education in related college programs.

GNB Voc-Tech students earning all four certifications included Eric Amaral, Eric Arruda, Alberto Espinola, Narissa Gonsalves, Sean Gould, Barry Madruga, Cory McGee Ashley Resendes-Heroux, Brian Tabares, and David Valerio. Mr. Amaral and Ms. Resendes- Heroux live in Dartmouth. Mr. McGee lives in Fairhaven. The other seven live in New Bedford.

Earning one to three certifications were Samantha DeFrias, Janildo DeBrito, Matthew Ditata, Matthew Drayton, Tyler Enos, Anastasia Greer, Philip Ferran, Katie Luiz, Heather Rego, Saul Rivera, and Armand Vasconcelos. Mr. Ditata lives in Fairhaven. Ms. Luiz lives in Dartmouth. The other nine live in New Bedford

The AYES/ASE exams are the same ones that certified technicians need to pass to earn their professional credentials.

Steam Engineering Students Earn State Licenses

Steam Engineering students at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School have kept alive a streak that has continued for 17 consecutive years. During each of those years, at least one student in the program has earned a state license entitling him – or her – to begin a career as a boiler operator.

During 2007, eight students earned a Massachusetts Second Class Fireman license: Chad Bodeau, Ian Niles, Andrew Pittsley, and Ross Rapoza, all from Fairhaven; Ivan Delgado- DaLuz of Dartmouth; and Danny Branco, Lynnette Cunha and Josh Desousa of New Bedford. All are seniors.

The seven young men and one young woman recently passed a written and oral exam administered by the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety, Division of Inspection. They received their results in late February.

175 “It’s fantastic,” said Paul R. Coelho, lead teacher in the Steam Engineering program. “Every year, the program continues to attract high-quality students.”

The state license will enable the students to continue in the trade or pursue a post- secondary education.

Six of the eight students are planning to further their education next year – at Massachusetts Maritime Academy, UMass Dartmouth, UMass Lowell, and Bristol Community College. The two others are planning to immediately enter the workforce.

Earning the state license is a big step and opens up a number of career paths for the students. Students have the opportunity to become high pressure boiler operators or technicians or hold any one of numerous positions in the field.

Students in the Steam Engineering program are responsible for operating and maintaining the school’s power plant, including operation of high pressure boilers, turbines, pumps, chillers, and two cogeneration units producing approximately 350 kilowatts of the school’s electricity. They also conduct chemical water analysis.

Students are often attracted to the Steam Engineering program because of the high salaries that graduates can earn.

GNB Voc-Tech is the only vocational-technical high school in Massachusetts where students can get the necessary training to take the Second Class Fireman exam. The license entitles the holder to operate any high-pressure boiler under the supervision of a licensed engineer or fireman.

Many of the school’s Steam Engineering graduates now operate the electrical power plants throughout Massachusetts.

Student Wins State Award

Anne Williams, a senior majoring in Engineering Technology at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School, won a prestigious award honoring a top vocational high school student in the state. The Massachusetts Vocational Association (MVA) Secondary Award salutes an outstanding voc-tech student from Massachusetts.

The award was announced at the Massachusetts Vocational Association’s Annual Convention on March 24, 2007 in Hyannis. Selection was made by a three-member MVA committee.

A large contingent of teachers and administrators from GNB Voc-Tech attended the awards presentation. They included Superintendent-Director Michael R. Shea and Principal Michael P. Gagliardi.

176 “We’re very proud of her,” said Steven A. Walker, Coordinator of the Science, Engineering, and Technology Cluster at GNB Voc-Tech. “She works hard and excels at everything she attempts.”

Miss Williams has received awards from the school’s Renaissance program, earned a place on the Dean’s List, and had perfect attendance for three years. Miss Williams has been on the school’s Women in Technology team; has taken part in basketball, winter track and field, rowing, and sailing; and serves as Vice-President of the local chapter of the National Honor Society.

She also takes part in the Honor Bowl and the Spotlight program at UMass Dartmouth. She serves on the Program Advisory Committee for the school’s Engineering Technology program.

She earned the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship for excellence on her Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exam. The Adams Scholarship entitles the recipient to free tuition at any state college or university.

Through the school’s cooperative education program, she works at Chris Electronics in New Bedford.

She was nominated for the award by a team of faculty and administrators at GNB Voc- Tech. She is currently ranked eighth in the senior class.

Student Nominated for Markham Award

Katherine E. Ostiguy, a senior at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School, was nominated for the prestigious Walter J. Markham award. This statewide award is given annually to only one vocational high school student in Massachusetts.

Miss Ostiguy, an Engineering Technology major, was ranked second in the senior class.

The Markham award is given to a student in a Massachusetts vocational technical high school who shows leadership, technical excellence and academic achievement.

Miss Ostiguy is a member and officer of the local chapter of the National Honor Society and has won numerous academic and technical awards from the school’s Renaissance Honor Roll program.

She is involved in numerous extracurricular activities, including the Honor Bowl, Peer Mediation, and the Rowing Team.

She earned the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship for excellence on her Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exam. She is an MCAS tutor.

177 Miss Ostiguy serves on the Program Advisory Committee for the school’s science department.

She has been accepted at Northeastern University, where she plans to study Civil and Environmental Engineering.

The Markham Award is named after the state’s first Associate Commissioner of Occupational Education. It is sponsored by the Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators (MAVA) and the Massachusetts Vocational Association.

Andre Luis Named Outstanding Student

Andre F. Luis, the top-ranked student in his class at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School, was recognized as one of the top vocational technical high school students in Massachusetts. Mr. Luis received the “Outstanding Vocational Technical Student Award” in April during an awards banquet sponsored by the Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators (MAVA).

Each vocational technical high school in the state can nominate one student for the award. A team of teachers and administrators at GNB Voc-Tech selected Mr. Luis, a senior majoring in Information Support Services and Networking.

The MAVA award recognizes students whose scholastic and vocational-technical achievements have significantly contributed to their school district.

Mr. Luis was ranked first in the 443-member senior class. He was a member of the school’s National Honor Society chapter and its Honor Bowl team. He had been on the Dean’s List and Renaissance Honors List during all four years of high school.

Mr. Luis is certified as a Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) in both Microsoft Word and Excel.

A resident of New Bedford, he plans to enroll in a technical college to improve his job skills in the field of Information Technology.

Administrator Elected to MSSAA Leadership Post

Steven C. Sharek, an administrator at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School, was elected chair of the Legislative Committee of the Massachusetts Secondary School Administrators’ Association (MSSAA). A Dartmouth resident, Mr. Sharek was elected at the Committee‘s organizational meeting on September 18, 2007.

As chair of the Legislative Committee, Mr. Sharek also will serve on the Association’s Board of Directors. He previously served as secretary of the Legislative Committee and as a mem ber of an ad hoc committee that helped revise the MSSAA constitution.

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Mr. Sharek serves as Coordinator of the Arts, Communication, and Consumer Services Cluster at GNB Voc-Tech. That Cluster includes five career and technical education programs, the Library Media Center, and Copy Center.

Mr. Sharek holds a Juris Doctor from Southern New England School of Law and a B.A. in English from Southeastern Massachusetts University (now UMass Dartmouth).

He formerly worked as an Assistant to New Bedford Mayor Brian J. Lawler and served on the New Bedford City Council for six years, including one year as its President. He now serves as the Town Moderator in Dartmouth.

The 18-member MSSAA Legislative Committee reviews pending legislation and recommends positions that the Association’s Board of Directors should take on various bills.

Located in Franklin, MSSAA is a statewide association of more than 1,000 middle and high school administrators, including guidance directors, department heads, curriculum coordinators, assistant principals, and principals.

Throughout the year, MSSAA offers numerous professional development opportunities for teachers and administrators. These opportunities include its annual Summer Institute in Falmouth.

Computer Camp Attracts Students

Under the direction of Information Technology teacher Richard Quintin, Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School was back for the eighth consecutive year with its popular summer Computer Camp program.

This highly popular program is aimed at elementary and middle school students and is designed to educate them about computers and engineering.

In all, more than 100 young people from Dartmouth, New Bedford and Fairhaven took part in the program this year.

Computer Camp was launched in the summer of 2000.

179 Voc-Tech Theatre Company

The revitalized Voc-Tech Theatre Company hosted two productions, Oliver in May of 2007 and It’s a Wonderful Life in December of 2007.

Both productions were well received by their audiences.

For the Saturday night performance of It’s a Wonderful Life, the Theatre Company experienced its very first sold-out, standing-room-only crowd.

The Theatre Company is now starting to get the recognition – and the audiences – that it deserves.

A great deal of the credit goes to Artistic Director Gerald A. Morrissey, Jr., who works tirelessly throughout the year.

Off-Campus Construction

During 2007, students from Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School were scheduled to undertake a series of off-campus construction projects, helping them improve their technical skills and helping area communities and non-profit agencies. The students – under the supervision of GNB Voc-Tech teachers and staff – would be working on projects in Dartmouth, New Bedford, and Fairhaven.

The projects included construction of an addition at the Regional Visiting Nurses building in Dartmouth, construction of a storage building for St. Joseph’s School in Fairhaven, and lighting, heating, and ventilation work at Nativity Prep School in New Bedford.

The school was planning eight off-campus projects, according to Robert Gomes, the construction projects coordinator at GNB Voc-Tech.

Also scheduled was work at Brooklawn Park in New Bedford, New Bedford City Hall, Livesey Park in Fairhaven, and Hastings Middle School in Fairhaven. In addition, students installed the annual holiday lighting displays at Clasky Common Park in New Bedford.

In all, more than 300 students representing nearly half of the school’s career and technical education programs were expected to take part in the projects. They include students majoring in Architectural Drafting, Carpentry, Electrical Technology, Engineering Technology, Fashion Design, HVAC-R/Appliance Technology, Plumbing & Pipe Fitting, Residential Remodeling & Design, Visual Design, and Welding/Sheet Metal.

In past years, students from GNB Voc-Tech completed a large-scale renovation and addition at the Dartmouth Grange. They also erected holiday lighting displays at Clasky Common Park, provided electrical services for the Pony League baseball diamond at Brooklawn Park, built floats for the Community Boating Center, designed a steel bridge to

180 be used at the Brooklawn Park duck pond, and erected a storage building for the Dennison Memorial Community Center. Students also assisted in the construction of a solar home for the UMass Dartmouth Solar Decathlon project.

GNB Voc-Tech provides the technical expertise and student labor and the community or non-profit group provides the materials.

Students Help with Youth Court

Students from the new Legal and Protective Services program at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School underwent 30 hours of intensive training to prepare them to handle cases in the area’s Youth Court. The students became certified Youth Court mentors – the persons in charge of meting out justice in the student-run, grant-funded Youth Court.

The twelve freshmen students received a full week of instruction at GNB Voc-Tech. One of the guest speakers was New Bedford Police Chief Ronald Teachman, who lectured to the students about Constitutional Law.

“We’re pleased that the students are getting this opportunity,” said Atty. Kellie Martin, who teaches in the new Legal and Protective Services program.

Atty. Martin explained that the Youth Court practices a system of “restorative justice,” where students must first admit their offense before a group of student mentors who listen to the facts and fashion an appropriate sanction given all of the circumstances.

Cases that end up in the Youth Court are either diverted from the Bristol County Juvenile Court or a local school system.

Atty. Martin and Voc-Tech Social Studies teacher Paul Durland serve on the Youth Court’s board of directors, as does New Bedford Police Sgt. Rita M. Ribeiro. Sgt. Ribeiro is also a member of the Voc-Tech School Committee.

Students Provide “Books and Bears” to Needy

In what has become a springtime tradition at the school, students at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School again joined forces with the New Bedford Police Department to bring some comfort and joy to area children in need.

For the sixth consecutive year, students from several career and technical education programs at GNB Voc-Tech have teamed up on the “Books and Bears” community service project. Students majoring in Fashion Design, Media Technology, and Early Childhood Education and Teaching produced 20 teddy bears – along with matching coloring books and story books – for children affected by trauma.

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“Students really put their hearts and soul into this project,” said Shirley Tavares, one of the teachers in the school’s Fashion Design program. “They get very emotional about it.”

Juniors majoring in Fashion Design designed, stuffed and stitched four kinds of teddy bears: the polar bear, black bear, grizzly bear, and panda bear. Sophomores in Fashion Design sewed tote bags. Students majoring in Media Technology wrote and illustrated storybooks about the bears. Students from Early Childhood Education and Teaching created coloring books and helped decorate the tote bags.

Students presented the books and bears on May 7 to Detective Gene Fortes of the Family Services Unit of the New Bedford Police Department; Officer Dennis Ledo, the School Resource Officer at GNB Voc-Tech; and Sgt. Rita M. Ribeiro, who supervises the department’s School Resource Officers Unit. Sgt. Ribeiro also serves as chairperson of the GNB Voc-Tech School Committee.

“These bears have truly made a difference in our community,” Sgt. Ribeiro told students at the presentation ceremony. “I couldn’t be more proud of this school and all of the people involved in this project.”

She told the students that she gave one of the bears recently to a young girl who was hospitalized with a serious medical condition. “That bear really lit up her face,” Sgt. Ribeiro said.

Police will keep the books and bears in their cruiser cars and distribute them to young children who are affected by traumatic events such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, a parent’s death, court proceedings, fires, or major accidents.

Students from GNB Voc-Tech who worked on the project included 16 juniors and 17 sophomores majoring in Fashion Design; 19 juniors and approximately 10 sophomores from Early Childhood Education and Teaching; and 12 freshmen from Media Technology.

Fashion Design teachers Eileen DeRego, Mary Ann Zuber, and Shirley Tavares; Fashion Design teaching assistant Maria Lopes; Media Technology teacher Maureen Lacasse; Media Tech teaching assistant William Gauthier; Early Childhood Education teachers Deborah Brightman and Michael Lipp; and Early Childhood teaching assistant Lynne Bagaco all helped supervise the project.

Adult Education

Under the direction of Robert M. Pimental, Student Services and School Facilities Director, the school offers one of the largest adult evening education programs in the region. Each semester, students are able to choose from dozens of courses in a wide range of fields, from computer technology and computer aided drafting to arc welding and basic carpentry. Additionally, courses are offered in Spanish, Portuguese, and American Sign Language. Practical arts classes, including oil and water painting, upholstering, power

182 machine quilting, and jewelry making are also popular. Finally, the school offers several courses that are required for licensing in various trades.

Tuition generally ranges from $60 to $300 per course, depending on the subject. Residents of New Bedford, Dartmouth and Fairhaven – the three communities in the district – get a break on tuition costs.

Enrollment in the Adult Education program, by community, was as follows:

Fall 2006 Winter 2007 Spring 2007 New Bedford 382 366 240 Dartmouth 140 130 84 Fairhaven 657 57 47 Non-District Residents 246 183 162 Totals 833 736 533

Looking Ahead

While many things were accomplished in 2007, several more initiatives were still in the planning stage as the year drew to a close.

First, we have begun planning for the decennial visit to our school by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) in 2009. NEASC is the regional accreditation agency for schools in the six New England states. Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School and its predecessor institutions have been accredited by NEASC since the mid 1940s. We certainly want to continue our long- standing affiliation with that agency. Prior to the visit, we need to undertake a comprehensive self-study of virtually every aspect of the school. This is a year-long process that will involve everyone in the school. We have selected several members of the staff to help guide us through development of the self-study. They include Social Studies teacher Frank Gracia and Culinary Arts teacher Jennifer Gaumont, who will serve as co-chairs, and English teacher Joanne Moniz and Information Technology teacher Rick Quintin, who will assist them. They certainly have a large and important task ahead of them.

Second, we have already put in place an 18-member planning group to assist in development of a Five-Year Plan for the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act grant. This grant brings our school approximately $300,000 each year – money that is used primarily on large equipment purchases for our career and technical education programs. The planning group will be led by Principal Michael P. Gagliardi and Cluster Coordinator Steven C. Sharek.

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Third, we need to plan for a Coordinated Program Review by the Massachusetts Department of Education in the fall of 2008. This review will cover, among other things, our Special Education and career and technical education programs. DOE did the first part of the review in December of 2007 when an inspector from the Department of Occupational Safety visited our career and technical programs for four full days.

Finally, we are preparing to host the south section district SkillsUSA competition here in the spring. While we are grateful for the opportunity to showcase our school for students and staff from throughout the region, we also know that this is a huge undertaking. We will need help and cooperation from the entire staff to make it successful. Michael R. Shea, Superintendent-Director Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School

BOARD OF HEALTH

2007 ANNUAL TOWN REPORT

As we struggled to adapt to increased budget cuts, Sue Costa our skilled and dedicated Assistant Animal Inspector /Animal Control Officer was furloughed. In the wake of this unfortunate situation, the Board carefully considered the prioritization of Animal Inspector responsibilities and there was also a significant reduction in emergency response on call hours. The Department of Public Works has assisted with removing large road kill from roadways. Residents have had to assume responsibility for burying wildlife that dies or is dispatched on their property. With a robust rabies incidence in the Fall, concern with this new policy was amplified.

The Select Board’s decision to implement the Pay As You Throw (PAYT) trash collection program occupied much of the department’s time developing regulations and working with the DPW and the Collector’s office to implement the program. The education component of this very new program extended from town employees, residents, and trash haulers as the trash fees and orange bags became a new way of life. The immediate success of the program in increasing recycling and reducing the trash volume was astounding.

Budget cuts and an increased Elderly Nutrition Program assessment necessitated renegotiation of the public health nursing contract. The Community Nurse and Hospice Care, Inc. agreed to reduce the public health nursing contract from $30,000 to $15,000 in light of the town’s budget constraints. In addition to the appropriated $15,000, the nurses received office space, utilities and maintenance and $27,782.91 from the Elliott D. and

184 Louise T. Stetson Charitable Trust, through the Board of Health, to cover free care provided to Dartmouth residents without adequate insurance.

The Board of Health was very pleased to learn of the progress the Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational students are making on the Bullard Wellness Center at the Council on Aging complex. As Town Hall becomes increasingly cramped with volumes of files, the completion of this facility will provide an accessible wellness resource to the community, new quarters for the nurses and free up much needed space to the Town Hall offices. The generosity and tireless work of the Friends of the Elderly and all of the community supporters allowed progress to continue on this project.

As students returned to school in the fall, a new public health concern: community acquired MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus) reached us. First seen in a few students at the High School this antibiotic resistant strain of Staph bacteria, more commonly found in health care settings, but increasingly seen in community settings, was eventually found in 9 students throughout the school system. The school nurses and administration worked with the Board of Health and the MA Dept of Public Health taking a proactive approach to educating the school community and developing a cleaning protocol to contain any incidence. The value of hand washing and personal protection is key in preventing many communicable diseases of concern including MRSA.

Emergency preparedness and planning for a community wide medical emergency continued with the development of a Medical Reserve Corp. All residents are urged to consider volunteering to assist in the event of an emergency. The Reserve Corp is comprised of volunteer citizens who will be trained in response procedures. Volunteers must be pre-credentialed to establish their fields of expertise and training level and will be cleared for voluntary deployment in time of an emergency. Clerks, couriers, greeters, interpreters, technicians, food service, childcare, and all people from all facets of the medical profession are needed. Trainings are scheduled in the area on a regular basis to familiarize volunteers with emergency response. Please call the Board of Health to volunteer and for more information.

The dedication, diligence, and positive attitude of the Board and staff to provide our services, contain expenses, and recover costs wherever possible has allowed the department to return $241,895, or 78% of our operating budget to the general fund in calendar year 2007. Assistance from Police Department and Department of Public Works has been a great asset in light of the significant cutbacks in Animal Control/Inspection services. The patience and understanding of residents is appreciated as we work with the resources we have to assure and improve the health of our community.

Respectfully submitted, Wendy W. Henderson R.S. Director of Public Health

185 BOARD OF HEALTH

Linda Motha Chair, Health Agent Gail Davidson, M.D. Vice Chair, Board Physician, Health Agent, Thomas W. Hardman Board Member Health Agent, Representative to Soil Board Wendy W. Henderson, R.S. Director of Public Health, Health Agent, Animal Inspector Christopher Michaud Health & Sanitary Inspector/Health Agent Janice Young Health & Sanitary Inspector/Health Agent Patti DeMello Administrative Clerk Kathleen Grimley Principal Clerk Sandra J. Gosselin Animal Inspector/Rabies Control Agent Cheryl Jackson Assistant Animal Inspector/Rabies Control Agent, (resigned 6/2007) Susan Costa Assistant Animal Inspector/Rabies Control Agent (furloughed 6/2007) Marianne DeSouza, Director, Greater New Bedford Tobacco Control Program, Health Agent

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PERMITS 2007 Alcohol 1 Animal 116 Body Art Establishment 4 Body Art P ractit ioner 5 Burial 110 Cabin, Motels 6 Cam ps 6 Demolition 17 Food: Bed & Breakfast 4 Cider Mill 1 Food Service 147 Grange 3 Ice Cream 12 Mobile 8 Residential Kitchen 3 Retail 65 Sausage 1 Seasonal 12 Funeral Directors 5 Haulers: Garbage 37 Septage 21 Installers 59 Massage Establishments 19 Massage Therapists 49 Sewage Disposal: New 21 Plan Review 79 Repair 49 Septic Abandonment 45 Title 5 49 Swimming Pools: Residential 24 Semi-Public 20 Tanning 8 Well 40

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COUNCIL ON AGING

Cynthia Marland, Ed. D., Chairman 6/30/09 Christine Rider, Vice Chairman 6/30/08

Beverly Quintin, Secretary 6/30/09 Wayne Whalley, Member 6/30/10 Cecelia Denwood, Member 6/30/09 Joan Foster, Member 6/30/09 Alan Mercer, Member 6/30/10 Jodi Saikali, Member 6/30/08 Mary Sciscento, Member 6/30/08 *Thomas Lindsay, Member 6/30/08 Robert Carney, Member 6/30/09 *Completing the unexpired term of Ralph Schmarsow

Mary Ellen Gomes, Director Susan Pierce, Administrative Clerk Brenda Mentembault, Outreach Nancy Miller, Activity Director, Senior Center Debra Ann Raymond, Social Day Coordinator Ana DeBarros, Assistant Coordinator Linda Lally, Activity Director SDC Toni-Ann Cormier, Coordinator/Activity Director Vaz Center James Pimentel, Maintenance Custodian Van Drivers George Silva Joseph Abreu Gerald Bramwell Robert Braga *Joseph Monteiro, resigned 12/31/07 Marcel Trahan George Frias

The Town of Dartmouth has over 6000 elders and the Council on Aging serves approximately 150 to 350 participants each day through social services, health services, transportation, educational programs, or for socialization. We s erved 1,535 individuals and provided over 50,000 units of service. What is a unit of service? It could be any of the Services listed below.

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Social Services: Food Bank Fuel Assistance Applications Emergency Funds Holiday Food Baskets Medicare Part D Applications SHINE Legal Services Outreach Program Identification Cards Smoke Alarms Congregate Meal Site Thrift Shops Tax Assistance Tax work-off Program Meals on Wheels Information & Referral Telephone Reassurance File of Life

Norma Vaz Center:

The Norma Vaz Center completed its first full year of operation. The center is open three days a week, Monday, Tuesday and Friday. The acceptance by the community is overwhelming. The atmosphere is warm and friendly and many of the participants give of their time and energy to volunteer to help serve at their frequent luncheons, or to make muffins on Muffin Mondays. Many of the activities at the Vaz Center encourage a healthy lifestyle such as exercise, line dancing, massage, blood pressure clinics or scrabble to keep the mind active. A quick look at the numbers will reflect the success of the North End Site, 4,700 units of services were provided at the Norma Vaz Center.

Social Day Care:

The Dartmouth Social Day Care Program provided 5,887 units of service to over 70 separate individuals during 2007. Although the numbers are very important, to understand the success of the program it is really necessary to observe the smiles and happy faces of the clients during the average day. The Adult Day Care is run strictly on the funds generated from the program and is not funded by the Town Budget. Debra Ann Raymond is the coordinator of this excellent program, which not only provides for the needs of elders, but also gives much needed respite to their caregivers. The Program is located in a beautiful wing of the Senior Center and we invite prospective clients, family members and anyone interested in this program to come and visit between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Please call Debra at (508) 991-6018 for more information or to arrange for a visit. Health Services: Many of the health services provided by the COA are aimed at prevention rather than a cure. They participate in classes in Tai Chi, Stretching and Weight Training and many people come in each week for a chair massage to help relax mind and body. The Blood Pressure Clinic and Podiatry Services are well attended. There are a variety of support groups available to help elders and their loved ones with issues of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s or Grandparents raising Grandchildren. Transportation: The most visible service provided by the COA is our transportation because our name is on the vehicles. Transportation is provided to the Senior Center, banks, pharmacy, therapy, grocery shopping and many other destinations. On a limited basis escorted

189 transportation is available. During 2007 the Council on Aging provided 14,249 rides to the elders of our community. Socialization: One of the dangers involved with the aging process is isolation and the senior center is the perfect antidote. Many people have enjoyed our monthly soup/sandwich & movie. Volunteers, including members of the Board of Directors and some of the staff, prepare homemade soup and s an dwic hes. We end the day with a cu rr ent m ovie. These events are so successful that we have to limit the number of people wh o attend so we don’t overcrowd the dining room. Listed below are the activities currently available and there will be additional programs coming in the future:

Senior Clubs Theme Parties Ball Room Dancing Line Dancing Arts and Crafts Quilters Trips/Outings Card Playing Bridge & Table Games Billiards Bingo Book & Tape Lending Library Soup/ Sandwich & Movie Scrapbooking Knitting & Crafts Dartmouth Wanderers

There are three core responsibilities of the Council on Aging: 1) To identify the needs of the community’s elder population and link them with available resources. 2) To educate the community at large about the needs of the elders. 3) To design, promote, and implement needed services and coordinate with existing service providers.

The Council on Aging and the Dartmouth Friends of the Elderly work together and share a common goal, to provide a better way of life for the elders in Dartmouth. The DFOE provides support to the Council on Aging and this year supplied goods and services in excess of $16,000 including new tables, window treatments and educational opportunities for the COA staff. Thank you to the Dartmouth Friends of the Elderly.

Major accomplishments of 2007 were the following: Painting of the outside of the building by the Sheriff’s Department, reestablishment of the Friendly Visitor Program, technology upgrade including data collection via Key-tag system, Activity Coordinator position funded by the Coastline Elderly Services, and an expanded food bank utilizing students from UMASS Dartmouth for delivery of food.

Dartmouth Council on Aging lost a dear friend and long time Board Member in the passing of Ralph Schmarsow on May 25, 2007. Ralph served with wit, humor and a strong concern for the community.

Mary Sciscento continues to be a Council on Aging Board Member but has retired as SHINE Counselor after more than 15 years of dedicated service. Thank you Mary.

190

Respectfully submitted, Mary Ellen Gomes, Director

Dartmouth Housing Authority

This Authority would like to publicly extend its sincere appreciation to all Town Agencies for their continued support. We encourage all residents of Dartmouth who are seeking affordable housing to apply. It is the intent of the Dartmouth Housing Authority to continue to address the housing needs of all our citizens. We feel that affordable housing is an issue, which affects virtually every community.

The Dartmouth Housing Authority Board Meetings are held at 4:00 P.M. on the second Monday of each month. Our Annual Meeting is scheduled in April. The citizens of our community can truly be proud of the 124 units of housing the Authority provides at the following Projects:

667-1 SOL-E-MAR: 44 units, Sol-E-Mar Lane, South Dartmouth. Completed for occupancy November 1967. State-aided Project.

667-2 MUNROE: 80 units, 2 Anderson Way, North Dartmouth. Completed for occupancy November 1980. Federally aided Project.

Eligibility Requirements for the two (2) programs are as follows:

667-1 SOL-E-MAR: Minimum Age: 60 years, except for handicapped units. Income Limits: Persons in household: One: $41,000.00 Two: $46,85.00 Assets: There is no limit on the amount of assets, which a household may possess and still be eligible for admission into State-Aided Public Housing. However, if a household’s assets exceed $5,000, the income from the assets or 1% of the value of the assets, whichever is greater, is included as income.

667-2 MUNROE: Minimum Age: 62 years, except for handicapped units. Income Limits: One Person: $25,600.00 Two People: $29,250.00 (Very Low) One Person: $41,000.00 Two People: $46,850.00 (Low) Assets: There is no limit on the amount of assets, which a household may possess and still be eligible for admission to Section 8 subsidized development. However, if a household’s assets exceed $5,000, the income from the assets or 1% of the value of the assets, whichever is greater, is included as income. On April 1, 2001, the Dartmouth Housing Authority accepted the responsibility of 200

191 units of Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers. This is a HUD funded program for families. Eligibility requirements for this program are as follows:

INCOME LIMITS 1 2 3 4 5 6 Person Persons Persons Persons Persons Persons $25,600 $29,250 $32,900 $36,600 $39,500 $42,450 In addition to the above income requirements, preference will be given to persons who reside or work in the Town of Dartmouth, are employed or are unable to work due to age or disability, or pay 50% or more of monthly household income for rent and utilities. Due to the enormous response to this program, the Section 8 waiting list is closed until further notice. The Authority’s Annual Audit is made public when received from the Office of State Auditors. Sincerely, Constance Desbiens, PHM Executive Director

VETERANS SERVICES

The Veterans Services Department operates in accordance with Chapter 115 of the Massachusetts General Laws for the purpose of assisting veterans and their dependents in time of need. This assistance includes medical, financial, shelter, food, employment and training, vocational rehabilitation counseling, preparing and processing VA claims and other veterans’ benefits and programs. The Dartmouth Veterans Service office continues to expand its outreach to town citizens. As a result of that outreach, the number of benefits for veterans and their families continues to expand. Since 2006, the Veterans Service office has seen a 122% increase in Chapter 115 cases. With continuing outreach by the Veterans Service office and veteran related events in the South Coast area, these figures will increase further as more veterans and eligible family members are educated on what they are entitled to. One such veteran related event took place on August 4, 2007. The Dartmouth Veterans Advisory Board put together the Veterans Identification Cookout, a first of its kind event in the state. The cookout was designed to bring veterans and their families from Dartmouth into a friendly, social atmosphere where they could not only congregate with other veterans while enjoying the cookout, but also pick-up useful information from vendors with veteran related material. When planning began in February of 2007, the event was to be for Dartmouth veterans and family members only. As the event planning took shape though, the Board realized that it should not limit anyone in the South Coast area to such important information. The result was an overwhelming success as more then a dozen vendors and a few keynote speakers disseminated information to more then 500 visitors. The citizens of Dartmouth are extremely lucky for having one of the most active and caring Boards in the state. The Dartmouth Veterans Advisory Board worked

192 tirelessly to raise donations from area citizens and businesses to ensure that the event did not cost veterans and their families any money. The Dartmouth Veterans Advisory Board takes pride in serving all veterans in the area and thanks to the success of the cookout, will make the Veterans Identification Cookout an annual event. Applications for VA healthcare still continues to be the most requested service the Veteran s Servi ce Of fi ce offer s. Ce rt ai n priority groups for enrollment still remain closed unfortunately. The Veterans Service Office and the Dartmouth Veterans Advisory Board continue their hard work to help all veterans and their families in Dartmouth. Sometimes though, no matter how hard we work, we cannot reach all veterans in the town. This is where we depend on every citizen to lend a hand to any veteran you know. If a veteran is not receiving the care or benefits that you think they are entitled to, let me know and I’ll continue to do my best to make sure that all of Dartmouth veterans and their families receive the assistance they are entitled to.

Shawn Goldstein Dartmouth Veterans Service Officer

Dartmouth Youth Commission

2007 Annual Report

About Us The Dartmouth Youth Commission is a youth and family service agency that provides support, referral, counseling and resources to residents of the Town of Dartmouth. The Commission began in Dartmouth in 1972 as a collective response for the community to the growing needs of the Town's youth. The Youth Commission is comprised of nine residents who set policy and guide the work of its youth advocate, Kevin Lee. Currently, the Commission also employs a part-time clerical assistant.

Mission Statement To meet the needs of Dartmouth young people and families who are: 1. At risk from either their own dangerous behavior, or, by the abuse of others; 2. To provide assessment, intervention and counseling to children and teens at risk; 3. Provide information and referral services to teens, their parents, the public, schools, police, juvenile court and other appropriate human service providers. To carry out the specifications of Chapter 40, Section 8E, of the Massachusetts General Laws under "Youth Commissions."

Youth Advocate The Youth Advocate's role involves counseling, crisis intervention, presentations, group facilitation, outreach and consultation with parents. The Youth Advocate typically works with children, early adolescents, and teens in office settings, home visits, and schools.

193 The Youth Advocate is an employee of the Town of Dartmouth. The Youth Commission sets the policies of on-going programs provided and the Select Board, through its Executive Administrator, provides administrative supervision of the Youth Advocate.

Our agency does not provide psychotherapy in either individual or group settings.

The Youth Advocate is available to meet with young people on an individual basis. The Youth Advocate's involvement with young people may be for brief intervention or last over an extended period of time. While the Youth Advocate is prepared to meet with young people in crisis, extended services are provided to Dartmouth residents only.

Confidentiality It is the policy of the Dartmouth Youth Commission and the professional practice of the Youth Advocate, that all names and related information are kept strictly confidential. Only the Youth Advocate has access to client names and private information. Student interns and other volunteers who assist with various programs are also required to abide by a signed statement of confidentiality. Our motto in both individual and group work is..."Whom You See Here, What You Hear Here, When You Leave Here, Let It Stay Here.”

Support Groups

The Dartmouth Youth Commission, through its Youth Advocate, Kevin Lee and other colleagues, offers both time-limited and on going support groups for children, teens and families. Support Groups are detailed below. Additional information on each group is available on our Web site, or by calling our office.

Dartmouth Girl Power is a time-limited support Group for girls in grades 6, 7 and 8 who reside in Dartmouth. Kevin Lee, Youth Advocate, and three female interns facilitate this group. Dartmouth Girl Power meets every Wednesday, 2:30 - 4:30 PM, from October through May.

Banana Splits is a support group for children whose families are coping with the effects of separation and/or divorce. We have offered this group continuously for the last twelve years. We offer two Banana Splits Support Groups; a 2nd and 3rd grade group and a 4th and 5th grade group. Each group meets every other week for a total of ten weeks, from October though March.

Teen Zone Support Group meets on Mondays from 3:00 – 4:30 PM throughout the school year, and at group agreed times during the summer months. Teen Zone is open to Dartmouth teens in grades 8 through 12.

Online Support for Dartmouth Families

194 In addition to regular appointments for consultations, counseling and group facilitation, a growing number of clients and residents use our Web site, www.dartmouthYouth.com for seeking additional information and support throughout our area. Visitors to the Parent’s Center at DartmouthYouth.com will find extensive resources and links on the following topics:

Area Hotlines Reporting Abuse Cyber Safety Human Service Providers Local Support Family Support Special Needs Online Medical Groups Sites Dartmouth Schools Local/State Legal Assistance Dartmouth Youth Sports Agencies New Resident Info Single Parenting Teen’s Center Children’s Center Info

The Alvin Glaser Memorial Family Assistance Fund Many people fondly remember with respect and admiration, the good heart and boundless generosity of Alvin Glaser. Alvin was a founding member of the Dartmouth Youth Commission. Alvin was more than a philanthropist. His generosity sprang not from his ability to give but from a deeper place. Alvin took the time to look into the eyes and hearts of people and then asked, “Tell me what you need.” Alvin, businessperson, family man and beloved town resident was a quiet giant who over the course of his life set the standard for living and giving in community. The Alvin Glaser Memorial Family Assistance Fund was created to assist Dartmouth families and individuals within families, during times of financial hardship caused by illness, death, unemployment or other unexpected events. The Glaser Fund exists solely for the purpose of helping persons in need and is not part of the Youth Commission’s regular operating budget. To learn how to donate to the Glaser Trust Fund, or to receive Application Guidelines, please visit us online or call our office. Youth Commission Members NAME TERM ENDS Gale Schultz, Chairperson June 30, 2010 Rosalyn Glaser-Bernstein June 30, 2010 Valerie Alves June 30, 2010 Debra Brejcha June 30, 2008 Lorraine Gagne June 30, 2008 Alyson Bellora June 30, 2009

Justine Clarke, Clerk Part-time Kevin Lee, Youth Advocate Full-time

195 Contact Information

Location: Dartmouth Town Hall, Room 118, 1st floor Office Hours: 8:45 AM – 4:30 PM, and by appointment. Office Phone: 508-910-1855 Email: [email protected] Web: www.dartmouthYouth.com

Respectfully submitted, Kevin Lee, Youth Advocate

COMMUNITY NURSE AND HOSPICE CARE

Chairman of the Board Pat Flynn 1st Vice Chairperson June Smith Treasurer Eric Strand President & CEO Jane R. Stankiewicz

Nursing Supervisor Joyce Cummings, RN

Community Nurse and Hospice Care is a private non-profit Visiting Nurse Association that provides a full range of home care and Hospice services to residents in the Southcoast area. We also provide Public Health Services to Dartmouth residents through a contract with the Board of Health. Our Dartmouth office is located at 400 Slocum Rd, on the first floor.

Our Public Health work provided to Dartmouth residents includes a monthly blood pressure clinic at the Council on Aging, Flu Clinics, Immunization Clinics, Communicable Disease follow up, and home visits. We also provide education sessions on health topics and wellness. In recent years, a great deal of time has been spent working with the Board of Health on Emergency Preparedness Planning. The Eliot D. Stetson, Jr. & Louise T. Stetson Charitable Trust provides funds that enable Community Nurse and Hospice Care to provide skilled care to Dartmouth residents not covered by insurance.

The staff of Community Nurse and Hospice Care has enjoyed working with the Board of Health and we look forward to the coming year.

196 Community Nurse and Hospice Care Dartmouth Public Health Annual Report 2007

Clinics

Blood Pressure Clinics Dartmouth COA 811 Norma Vaz Center 100

Communicable Disease Case Lyme 27 Hepatitis B 6 Salmonella 6 Tuberculosis 2 Viral Meningitis 2 Chicken Pox 0 Pertussis 6 Other 28 Total: 77

Meetings Emergency Preparedness meetings Adult Immunization Conference Massachusetts Association of Public Health Nurses

Presentations Heart Health H igh Blood Pressure

Town Visits – 8 Adult Vaccines 1 Mantoux Flu Clinics Flu Vaccine 365 Pneumonia Vaccine 28

LEGAL DEPARTMENT

The Town’s Legal Department has offices in Town Hall and is staffed by outside Counsel through the New Bedford firm of Anthony Savastano, Attorney At Law, P.C., with part-time assistance from Linda Torres.

197 The Legal Department provides advice and assistance to all Town departments, boards and commissions on various matters of concern to them, including but not limited to contracting, bidding procedures, permitting an d licensing issues, zoning issues, by-laws and regulations and personnel matters.

The Legal Department defends the Town’s position in disputes including but not limited to these involving its Zoning By-Law, subdivision, regulations, wetlands regulat ions, permitting decisions, soil removal, labor and health issues. The Department assists Town Officers in the enforcement of Town-By-Laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, and applicable statutes and codes.

The Legal Department also represents the Town in contractual and employment dispute s, emin en t dom ain, tort claims a nd ot her claims asser ted by and against the Town.

The Legal Department reviews and d ra fts warrant articles to be presented to Town Meetin g and c ar ries ou t the direction of Town Meeting, such as street layout and accepta n ces, tr an sactio ns involving real property, easements, donations of land, and enactin g and a m ending by-laws and regulation. Questions concerning public bidding require m ents a n d cont ract form s are submitted for review.

During the past calendar year, the Legal Department was involved in litigation, that included but was not limited to zoning disputes, wetland enforcement, eminent domain , comprehensive permits, land acquisition, health code enforcement, agricultural restrictions and workmen’s compensation before state and federal administrative, trial and appeals courts.

The Legal Department advises and defends the Town in personnel matters involving union grievances, industrial accidents disputes, employee discipline, reviewing collective bargaining agreements, and similar personnel issues.

The Legal Department aggressively pursues its goal to provide early intervention and preventative advice to the Town’s departments, boards and commissions in the interest of minimizing costly, avoidable litigation.

GRANTS & HUMAN RESOURCES Doris J. Copley, Paralegal/ Grants Program Manager/ Human Resources Coordinator David Brunette - Housing Rehabilitation Inspector Pamela Simmons, Grants Clerk

The town has been fortunate to have consistently secured funding since 1999 for its block grants from the Department of Housing & Community Development. Each year, applications for funding must be more competitive and creative due to the reduced amount of available funding by the federal government. A contributing factor of the town’s success is the excellent grant rating the town maintains with the state. Another major factor is the submission of comprehensive, competitive grant proposals. The application is based on a points system and we aggressively go after every extra point

198 we can get. The exhaustive attention to detail in administering the day-to-day grant program is also crucial to its success. There is a genuine concern and sensitivity by the Board for low income and elderly residents of the town who are in dire need of assistance with housing rehabilitation and/or social services. To date, the town has received over $3,056,085 in grant funding starting with the 1999 Rte. 6/Hathaway Rd./Lake Noquochoke / Sol-E-Mar Sewer project involving over 750 households. Those grant funds assisted re sident s with over 150 tie-ins and 50 sewer abatements for a total amount of $543,000. In 2002, the town was funded for $800,000 to rehabilitate 26 housing units. Also funded were 3 social service programs for homeless families. In 2004 & 2005, the town received a combined total of $563,175 for 20 more units of housing rehabilitation. Another tremendous benefit to the town is the inclusion of all the housing rehabilitation projects (approx. 75) into its Ch. 40B affordable housing stock. The town’s percentage is now very close to meeting the required 10% goal. The new ADA & Transition Plan of th e tow n’s public buildings has been completed and is available for public inspection. This survey addresses handicap compliance issues along with recommendations to rectify those areas that are currently non-compliant. The success of the grants department in administering these labor intensive grant programs depends on the cooperation of nearly every town department, including the Building Dept. for permits, zoning and inspections, the Accounting & Treasurers Depts. for handling of funds and accounts, the Conservation Dept. for conservation restrictions, the local Historical Commission for determining historical significance of older homes, the Select Board Office for shared administration, the DPW & Board of Health for septic and tie-in permits, the Assessors’ Dept. or owner verification, the Collector’s Office for tax is sues, the Council on Aging for assistance with elderly programs, the Planning Dept. for USGS maps, and the Legal Dept. for opinions. In addition to utilizing in-house departments, the grant also requires interaction with the MA Dept. of Housing & Community Development, who awards and monitors the grant programs, HUD, Dept. of Labor, other supplemental funding sources such as PACE, Citizens for Citizens and USDA, the MA Historical Commission, Board of Building & Regulation Standards, Office of Neighborhood Development for Lead Abatement, grant consultants, engineers and numerous other agencies. Town residents who meet the income guidelines and can show clear title to the subject property may be eligible for assistance. For more information or to request an application, call Pam @ 508-910- 1868 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Mon. - Fri. The Grants Dept. held two public informatio nal wo rkshops in 2007 regarding grant regulations, along with assistance with the preparation of required paperwork.

FY ‘07 INCOME LIMITS FOR DARTMOUTH HOUSEHOLDS

1 2 3 4 people 5 6 7 8 people person people people people people people Very Low 25,600 29,250 32,900 36,600 39,500 42,450 45,350 48,300 Income Low 41,000 46,850 52,700 58,550 63,250 67,900 72,600 77,300 Income

199 HUMAN RESOURCES

In addition to providing paralegal support to the Legal Department, the Grants Program Manager also serves as the Human Resources Coordinator for the Executive Administrator. Her HR duties include providing day to day support to department heads regarding numerous human resources issues including, contract renewals, updating job descriptions, grievances, reclassification requests, labor negotiations, writing and updating policies, conducting training workshops and various other human resources activities.

RECLAMATION AND MOSQUITO CONTROL BOARD

BRISTOL COUNTY MOSQUITO CONTROL PROJECT 140 NORTH WALKER STREET * TAUNTON, MA 02780 Tel: (508) 823-5253 * Fax: (508) 828-1868

ANNUAL REPORT - DARTMOUTH, MASSACHUSETTS

January 1, 2007 – December 31, 2007

In June 30, 2007 the Bristol County Mosquito Control Project completed forty-eight years of service to the cities and towns of Bristol County. The mosquito control project works year-round in its efforts to reduce mosquito breeding sites and adult mosquito populations. The Project uses several different measures of control in its never-ending fight against mosquitoes.

Spring and Summer Larviciding - To reduce the emergence of adult mosquitoes in areas where mosquito larvae are present.

Catch Basin Treatment - To stop mosquito emergence from rain-filled catch basins and storm drains.

Mosquito Surveillance Program - To monitor mosquito populations as to their type and number - a program necessary in encephalitis surveillance. Light trapping of mosquitoes is also useful to determine what areas have nuisance populations of mosquitoes.

Water Management - A year round endeavor to clean and maintain mosquito drainage ditches in areas to reduce standing water conducive to mosquito larvae.

Public Outreach: - Providing importan t informa tion to the residents of the county with respect to personal protection against mosquito bites, mosquito breeding prevention on one’s property and mosquito data.

200 It is the policy of the Bristol County Mosquito Control Project to use pesticides that are environmentally sensitive so that they do not negatively impact people or the environment. We use as many of the biological insecticides as are practical with the environmental conditions present in the New England area.

All of our spray equipment is calibrated periodically in order to insure that dosage rates remain at legal levels but are adequate to reduce mosquito populations. The operators of our spray equipment are state licensed pesticide applicators that are required to attend classes on pesticide safety on a yearly basis.

During the time period January 1, 2007 – December 31, 2007 the Bristol County Mosquito Control Project:

Sprayed over 25,781 acres Treated 67.4 acres in 119 locations with BTI for mosquito larvae Received 790 requests for spraying Cleared and reclaimed 11,581 feet of brush 6,252 feet of tractor work Treated 2,453 catch basins

The Bristol County Mosquito Control Project in a cooperative effort with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health – State Laboratory Institute has been trapping mosquitoes throughout Bristol County and sending the collections to the State Virus Lab.

I would like to thank the town officials and the people of Dartmouth for their continued support and cooperation and look forward to serving them in the coming year. Should anyone have a question as to what might be done to relieve a mosquito problem in their area, whether it is water management work, treatment of a breeding site, or just having an area checked, please feel free to call our office.

Respectfully submitted, Wayne N. Andrews, Superintendent December 31, 2007

Bristol County Mosquito Control Commissioners:

Arthur F. Tobin, Chairman Christine A. Fagan Gregory D. Dorrance Joseph Barile

201

DARTMOUTH CONSERVATION COMMISSION

2007 ANNUAL REPORT

The Dartmouth Conservation Commission was established to carry out the provisions of M.G.L., Chapter 131, Section 40, the Wetlands Protection Act. The Dartmouth Wetlands Protection Bylaw, adopted by the Town in 1980, is a vital link to the Wetlands Protection Act for the protection of the Town's natural resources. The provisions of the Wetlands Act and the Wetlands Bylaw combined, affords the Conservation Commission the supportive authority to control activities which border upon or are within wetlands. As defined by the Wetlands Protection Act, the wetlands are determined by the Conservation Commission through a filing procedure.

In 2007, the Conservation Commission received 91 requests for Wetland Site Inspections, which resulted in the delineation and verification of wetlands within the Town. The Site Inspection process is a procedure allowed under the Dartmouth Wetlands Protection Bylaw to determine the extent of wetlands on an applicant-owner's property.

During 2007 the Conservation Commission held 23 public meetings during which there were 187 public hearings. The Commission reviewed 43 Notice of Intent applications and 53 Requests for Determination of Applicability filings. A majority of these filings were a direct result of the Wetland Site Inspection application process. Fifty- eight (58) Orders of Conditions were granted upon closure of the public hearings. Within the year, the Commission also granted 5 Extension Permits, and 21 Certificates of Compliance on Orders of Conditions

In addition to the mandated duties of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the Dartmouth Wetlands Protection Bylaw, and the day-to-day operations of the Conservation Commission office, the Conservation Commission has made decisions on numerous conservation issues in an effort to protect and enhance the Town's natural resources. The Conservation Commission and its staff were involved in the following special projects or additional activities during 2007.

SALT MARSH RESTORATION PROJECTS The year 2007 was a productive year with salt marsh restoration projects in Dartmouth.

Padanaram Marsh Restoration Project: In May of 2003 the Padanaram salt marsh project restoration was completed, and yearly monitoring has continued since than. The remediation work involved the improvement of a historic culvert that was severely impeding tidal exchange to the 10- acre salt marsh. With the assistance of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration officials and t he assis ta nce o f Town of Dartmouth Department of Public Works staff and equipment, culvert was replaced with a larger culvert allowing for a significant improvement in tidal flows to the s alt marsh system. Monitoring in 2007 of

202 environmental conditions within the marsh system showed a dramatic shift in the salt marsh ecology from its previously degraded state to a more natural plant and animal community.

Nonquitt Marsh Restoration: The 85-acre Nonquitt salt marsh restoration project made significant progress throughout 2007. The design option for replacement of an undersized culvert was finalized. The project has continued to gather significant support and momentum throughout the wetland restoration professional community. The project has many potential areas of research and study that the scientific communities are interested in pursuing. The final design was agreed upon by all participating parties in 2007 and the acquisition of necessary regulatory permits and construction will commence in 2008.

TURN THE TIDE PROJECT In 2007 the Turn the Tide-Restore Dartmouth’s Estuaries continued to make significant progress. Turn the Tide is an integrated, watershed-based, $1.8 million, four- year plan to assess and restore Dartmouth’s estuaries. The Turn the Tide partnership was formed in 2002 among the Coalition for Buzzards Bay, the Town of Dartmouth, the UMass Dartmouth School of Marine Science and Technology (SMAST), and The Lloyd Center for Environmental Studies (LC), and is modeled upon and integrated with the methodology of the Massachusetts Estuaries Project.

Turn the Tide is a watershed-based approach to assessment and restoration, with tasks that include: data collection focusing on watershed source analysis (including stream nutrient and bacterial loading measurement), nutrient distributions, development of a hydrodynamic model, mapping of eelgrass and wetlands, and survey of benthic indicator species. These parameters, when coupled, provide the database for synthesis of contaminant dynamics within each system, enabling construction of a water quality numerical model and overall evaluation of the current and potential ecological health of the various subsystems of the Slocum-Little River Complex and Apponagansett Bay. The synthesis, model and evaluation will then support management and restoration plans for Dartmouth’s estuarine systems. Along with the assessment and management tasks, Turn the Tide has a strong advocacy component that is designed to inform and to mobilize watershed residents and is being coordinated by the Coalition for Buzzards Bay. Thus residents will become invested in the research and will be able to make informed decisions concerning watershed management.

In 2007 water quality testing was completed and drafts of the final reports were completed. Final reports and action plan are expected in Spring 2008.

203 CONSERVATION COMMISSION MEMBERS

Gerald Franklin, Chairman (Resigned 4/07) Term Expires 2007 Jacquelyn McDonald, Chair Term Expires 2009 Patricia Sweriduk Term Expires 2008 Michael A Kehoe, Vice-chair Term Expires 2010 Richard T Mallen Term Expires 2008 Daniel Gioiosa Term Expires 2010 Jennifer Brindisi Term Expires 2010

CONSERVATION COMMISSION STAFF Michael O'Reilly, Environmental Affairs Coordinator Donna Farias, Conservation Aide

NATURAL RESOURCES

Due to the financial crisis in Dartmouth, there was no funding appropriated for the Natural Resources Department for FY 2008. Due to this, the hours of the Shellfish Constable were reduced from 40 to 10 hours per week beginning the second week of August 2007.

Because of this drastic reduction in hours, my Catch Reports are incomplete and will not be published for 2007. On a better note, Dartmouth will receive the Grant from the Harbor Trustee Council, which is $116,000 for three years for shellfish propagation. As of this writing the negotiations are in process.

Respectfully submitted: Kenneth Pacheco

204

Harbor Master/Waterways Director: Waterways Commission: Term Steven L. Melo, JD. Gerald Hickey, Chair 2010 Assistant Harbormasters: Chris Hemingway, Vice Chair 2008 Stephen Turner Robert Metcalf, Secretary 2010 Stephanie Saikali Warren Hathaway 2009 Martin Casey Roger Race 2010 Julian Race Norman Peloquin 2009 Charles J. Howland Ira Perry 2008 Robert Miller Thomas Gill

DARTMOUTH HARBORMASTER

WATERWAYS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT

1 Bridge Street, Rear www.dartmouthharbormaster.com [email protected]

Telephone: (508) 999-0759 / Fax: (508) 990-7759

The Dartmouth Waterways Department is comprised of the Harbormaster/Waterways Director, Assistant Harbormasters and the Dartmouth Waterways Management Commission. Assistant Harbormasters are appointed by the Harbormaster with approval of the Select Board. The Select Board also appoints 7 volunteer Waterways Management Commissioners who develop fair and equitable regulations and policies for Dartmouth Waterways. Increasing safe and responsible public access to Dartmouth’s popular waterways remains a primary focus for the Waterways Department. Monthly meetings are typically held in the Waterways facility at 12 Rogers Street on Clarks Cove in Dartmouth. Minutes of past meetings are posted on the Waterways website, www.dartmouthharborma ster.com. This informative website also contains Waterways and Mooring Regulations, registration and other forms, important local notices, indispensable boater information, and a wealth of practical nautical links. E-mail messages may be directed to the Waterways Commission and Harbormaster from this site. Continuously-refreshed scenes of Padanaram Harbor may be viewed on our website with a link to a web cam.

All funding for the operation of the Waterways Department is maintained separate and independent of the Town’s general fund and tax levy. User-based fees and grant funding constitute the revenue of our self-sustaining enterprise fund. Fees assessed for mooring permits, vessel waterways use permits and related services remain at the same level for the fourth year. Stringent collection efforts on behalf of the Waterways

205 Enterprise Fund allows for increased patrols to protect Dartmouth Waterways. The Dartmouth Harbormaster and Staff are responsible for enforcing all local, state and federal waterways and boating rules and regulations. Equitable application of these regulations results in safe and enjoyable use of our waterways. The Department continues its noted tradition of rendering assistance and guidance to mariner’s based-in or passing through Dartmouth waters. C o llabor at ion w it h loca l, region al, sta te and federal agencies allows the Dartmouth Waterways Departme nt to better educate, serve and prote ct ind i vidual s who enjoy or work o n our w aterways. The Department maintains year-round, constant readiness responding to VHF (Marine channel 09) radio summons, telephone or Dartmouth Police dispatch.

Enforcement of the “No Discharge” designation of all Dartmouth waters resulted in the collection of thousands of gallons of vessel sewage in 2007 and prevention of that pollution from entering our waterways. Our waste pump-out efforts have positively contributed to the restorative efforts of our local fisheries, wildlife habitats, and overall water quality.

The 2007 season saw a successful second annual Slocum River rowing regatta hosted by the Lloyd Center for Environmental studies. Hundreds of participants and spectators gathered in September to enjoy this well-organized human-powered craft competition on the scenic Slocum River. Dartmouth waters into Buzzards Bay also played host to the 35th annual Buzzards Bay Regatta during August of the 2007 season. This event followed on the heals of the move of Concordia, Inc. Boatyard from their historic waterfront home on Padanaram Harbor to a new facility about one mile west of the harbor on Gulf Road. The United States Coast Guard focused considerable effort defining their federally-designated channel in Padanaram Harbor throughout 2007. Two existing aids to navigation were re-located, and a seasonal buoy was added to carefully define the 50-yard wide navigable channel through our harbor. The resulting loss or relocation of nearly 30 scarce mooring sites is being addressed into the 2008 season.

The Waterways Department, with guidance and assistance from Dartmouth Environmental Coordinator Michael O’Reilly, increased efforts in 2007 to close out DEP review of Town-owned land adjacent to the Waterways facility on Rogers Street. Grant funding received from Community Preservation resources in 2007 was designed to help restore this adjacent area to some form of productive public access to the Clarks Cove waterway.

SOIL CONSERVATION BOARD

The Soil Conservation Board is responsible for issuing permits concerning earth removal and reconstruction of sites from which earth has been removed. Permits are renewed annually and projects are bonded according to the Soil Conservation By-Laws. The properties also have official bi-annual inspections.

206 For FY08 the Soil Board budget was reduced by 21%. Despite the significant reduction, the staff has continued to perform the required duties. This reduction will make the bylaw revisions difficult to move forward due to associated costs for advertising.

The Soil Board, in 2007, voted to amend the permit renewal policy bringing it more in line with the revised budget. Permit holders are now requested to submit one annual payment including permit renewal and bi-annual inspection fees. The other significant change would be that current site photos will be provided by the applicant as part of the permit renewal process.

T he larger operations permitted by the Board are for reconstruction of vacant land into cranberry bogs and agricultural land.

The Board also investigates complaints from abutters and concerned citizens about un-permitted activities.

Before they can be granted a permit from the Soil Conservation Board, all applicants, except for incidental acts related to agriculture, must have received permission from the Board of Appeals. There are currently 7 active permits and 2 tabled permits.

The Board is made up of one Select Board member, one member from the Finance Committee, two members from the Conservation Commission, one member from the Board of Public Works, one member from the Board of Health and one member of the Planning Board.

The Board employs a part time clerk and inspector. The Soil Conservation Clerk and the Inspector may be contacted through the Department of Public Works Office, 759 Russells Mills Road, and Dartmouth (508) 999-0740.

SOIL CONSERVATION BOARD

Diane Gilbert Select Board Richard Medeiros Board of Public Works Gregory Lynam Finance Committee Richard Mallen Conservation Commission Joseph Toomey, Jr. Planning Board Jacquelyn McDonald Conservation Commission Thomas W. Hardman Board of Health Chris Michaud Soil Board Inspector Bonnie J. Souza Soil Conservation Clerk

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PARK DEPARTMENT

John P. Costa, Chairperson Term Expires 2008 Lisa B. Tavares, Vice-Chairperson Term Expires 2010 Shaun E. Westgate, Clerk Term Expires 2009

Timothy J. Lancaster, Superintendent Rebecca V. Amaral, Principal Clerk

For the first time in recent history the Park Department began its summer season with great concern regarding our revenue stream and a requirement by the town to offset our operating budget through fee generation. This charge forced the department to begin looking at new ways of generating revenue with only minimal impact on our residents. As a result the Board of Commissioners implemented new policies for the purpose of moving towards a self-funded operating budget. Most notably non-resident passes were developed and sold for $150.00 each with access to all seven parks and beach sites in town. This very successful program generated thousands of dollars in new reoccurring revenue for the department, kept resident passes at a reasonable cost, and had no impact on parking, or beach overcrowding during the 2007 summer season. It was the hope of the Park Commission to increase the cost of these stickers and reduce the available number for 2008, increasing revenue further while allowing less non-residents access. However, in the Fall an article preventing the sale of these new stickers was put forth and passed at Town Meeting. As a result the department will have to look at increasing existing fees to offset the loss of these funds for the upcoming summer beach season.

As in past years the summer was a very busy time for the Park Department. Our lifeguards and seasonal gate guards were on duty starting June 14th and staffed our beaches through Labor Day weekend. Warm weather and the absence of any tropical storms made for an excellent beach season and very high park usage throughout the system. Staff lifeguards responded to numerous requests for first aid throughout the summer, with no serious incidents reported.

Apponagansett Park was utilized heavily again this year as a site for recreational camps, family outings, and the Park Department Summer Concert Series. This past summer marked the eighth year that the self-funded summer concert events have taken place at the park. As in past years the event continues to grow allowing us the opportunity to introduce new names and larger well-known bands to our concert schedule. The Park Department would again like to thank the Dartmouth YMCA, the Dartmouth Harbor

208 Master and his staff, Dartmouth Emergency Management, and Dartmouth Fire District One for offering assistance during our concert events.

Use of the ice cream bucket at Apponagansett Park was put on hold until next season in a hope that the municipal sewer project on Gulf Road will be complete allowing for us to tie in so our new concession facility can operate properly. The building restoration is near completion with the exception of the decorative crank handle, which we hope to install in 2008.

As always, I would like to tak e this o pp ortunit y to th a nk all of the residents and officials who have supported the direction in which the department has been moving over the past several years. Your ongoing commitment and assistance has allowed us to improve and develop our facilities for both the residents of Dartmouth and our deserving staff. We look forward to the continued progress and growth of this department as we head towards our goal of town-wide park and recreational development and access.

Timothy J. Lancaster Superintendent

RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Paul Coucci, Jr., Chair

Cynthia Karl, Vice-Chairperson Cynthia Shorrock

Timothy J. Lancaster, Director Rebecca Amaral, Principal Clerk

In 2007, the Dartmouth Recreation Department was informed by the town that it must offset its entire operating budget and become a self-funded entity, due to the Town’s current fiscal crisis. As a result the department adjusted all fees, relocated the swimming program and combined resources with our U-Mass camp in an effort to save the program under the new funding guidelines. As a result, through re-structuring and adjustment of our fee schedule the Town’s recreation department is now a completely self-funded operation.

Over the last year the department was relocated from the Smith Neck School to the former Town Hall due to the Town’s decision to sell the old school. In the Spring the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office Inmate Work Crew painted and cleaned the building for use as the new recreation center. By summer the building was ready for use by our camp programs and will be utilized year round for indoor activities. We are hopeful that the move to this more centrally located facility will lead to an increased enrollment in our new winter and spring programming.

209

The tyke program saw continued increased enrollment in 2007. This new program, which is totally self-funded, is geared towards children ages 4-5 years old. The program allows participants the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, group games, story time and much more. It is the intent of the department to expand the tyke program in the future.

In addition to our new tyke program the Recreation Department offered a variety of programs to the residents of Dartmouth. These programs, some of which are sponsored by the Recreation Department, offer the Town’s youth and in some cases adults “how to classes” in a particular area. It is the goal of the department to continue exploring the possibility of adding new classes to our current program.

With the arrival of summer, the department conducted its annual tennis, golf, and swimming programs. The tennis program held at Dartmouth High School was a very popular program open to residents of all ages for a period of seven-weeks. The program concluded with a “Beginners Tournament”. The golf program was again held at the Hawthorne Country Club and was open to children and young adults for a four-week period. Finally, our swimming program held at UMASS Dartmouth had another successful year. This program offered a wide variety of lessons ranging from water babies to basic rescue. Each class consisted of a daily 30-minute lesson over a period of seven weeks.

The department operated two summer playground/swim centers during the summer vacation months. The two-playground swim centers, one at Apponagansett Park and one at UMass Dartmouth, were again very successful programs enjoyed by many Dartmouth youth. These programs which ran for seven weeks contained activities ranging from arts and crafts and games, to field trips to play bowling, miniature golf and to the Roger Williams Zoo.

During the spring and summer months the department sponsored archery programs put forth by Ace Archers. These programs were held at the Dartmouth Regional Park & Trails and were a huge success. These new programs took place in the afternoon for a one-week period. It is the intent of the Recreation Department to hold additional archery programs in the upcoming year.

Over the past year the Recreation Department has continued to work with the DYAA and DGAL with the scheduling of gymnasiums for their worthwhile activities. These non-profit organizations have developed and maintained growing programs that serve hundreds of children and young adults on a yearly basis.

On behalf of the Recreation Commission, I would like to thank all of our devoted staff members who have worked diligently to make our programs a continued success.

Timothy J. Lancaster Director

210

Dartmouth Animal Control 2008 Annual Town Report

Sandra Gosselin, Animal Control Officer

Susan Costa, Assistant Animal Control Officer (Laid off June 2007) Cheryl Jackson, Assistant Animal Control Officer (Resigned February 2007)

The New Year started out as busy as ever in the small but very effective department. Even with the cold temperatures and snow there always seems to be a call waiting to be answered or an animal in need. The office managed to get out license billing notices to over 3,400 dog owners by the end of February. This would ensure that everyone would have proper notice of the new $5.00 late fee that would be attached as of May 1st.

Unfortunately not everyone paid attention to these notices. Some dog owners have had to pay far more than they would have if they had come in on time. This is very disheartening since the Town Clerk’s Office starts the new licensing on January 2nd of each year. This gives owners four months to get their licenses before the actual late fee deadline. This also puts more strain on two already understaffed departments. The Town Clerk’s Office starts to make phone calls as early as June but eventually the citations have to be mailed to the owners of unlicensed dogs. Many different approaches have been tried by Animal Control and the Town Clerk’s Office. What will be next! Who knows? I can tell you this; it sure is generating some funds for the town with all the extra money for late fees and such.

In February Cheryl Jackson resigned her position with Animal Control to head the Fairhaven Anim al Control Department. Cheryl worked for Dartmouth since April of 2005. She brought a happy energetic personality to this department and always wanted to take animals home and befriend them. Due to budgetary cuts her position was not filled leaving only one part-time officer for nights and weekends.

These are some of the issues that we as Animal Control Officers deal with, but we also have to learn where to draw the line. It is not easy to be an animal lover and not take everything home with you. That is why this job, as well as the shelter jobs, have such a high employee turnover. You sometimes get so burnt out dealing with people who seem to think animals can be thrown out or sent to a animal shelter and it’s not a big deal. I am not saying that it is not hard for some, but for the most part what we see is the person who has a dog or cat on a whim and now they are too much trouble, so they surrender them to the shelter. Or worse they dump them on the side of the road to fend for themselves. Some owners don’t even bother to claim their so-called beloved pet because they don’t want to pay the boarding fees.

In June 2007 the department was cut once again. Due to budget cuts the Town laid off one of the best Animal Control Officers that they ever had. Sue Costa was an exceptional

211 person who required the very best of herself and expected no less from anyone who owned an animal. Sue’s commitment to animals started over 10 years ago at Capeway Animal Hospital where she worked as a Vet Tech. Her knowledge in the medical field was a great asset to this department. T he spay/neutering of pets was very important to her and she tried to educate everyone that she dealt with in the importance of it. She was driven by the love for animals to make sure anyone she dealt with did what needed to be done. Sometimes this did frustrate her when she had an animal dumped off that lead to a dead end, or she could only enforce the laws of Massachusetts to a standard that most of us in the animal control field consider substandard. She always wanted to save the day and go well beyond her shift just to get things done. The not so responsible owners were in for a surprise dealing with her.

On January 20, 2008, Sue Costa passed away taking a big piece of our hearts with her. I truly believe that she is in a better place where no animal is treated wrongly.

The Humane Society has had animals dropped off at their door as well as the Police Department, and in some instances these animals are from other towns or cities. No one likes to think that someone was not telling the truth when turning in an animal but in this field it is all too common to find out that the animal was theirs to begin with. The cost of these unwanted animals that require a holding period are shifted to the Town.

People are always telling me that they could not do my job, and in fact most could not, and at times it seems that I too feel that way. One of the most disrespectful comments that anyone can say to an Animal Control Officer or shelter worker is “You’re not going to put the animal to sleep, are you?” “Isn’t that what you people do?” We are not the one who abandoned the animal, allowed them to roam in the street, or reproduce to astronomical numbers.

It is not an Animal Control Officer or a shelter workers’ desire to do such a thing, and in most c ases th e animal is adopted out to a loving home. The reality is that some are not adopted and are enthanized. The decision to do this is not an easy one to make for anyone in this field, and certainly we all would like to find a home for every animal no matter the circumstances. You know the old saying, “what comes around goes around”.

In any case we plug on and when the day is done I can honestly say I can be proud of the job I h ave do ne that day. Whether I saved a kitten from a life in the wild or a dog from being hit by a car, I know when I meet my maker I and the rest of the dedicated Animal Control Officers and shelter workers will stand proud.

Statistics for 2007

Dogs Cats Picked up 84 Picked up 74 Adopted 21 Adopted 23 Transferred 1 Transferred 15 Cdlaime 46 Claimed 4 Euthanized 12 Euthanized 29

212 Found Dead 1 Found Dead 20 Rabbits 25 Dumped on Fisher Road

24 placed by Alder Brook Farm 1 Adopted by H.S.

These numbers do not include the numerous animals that are returned to their owners before they are brought to the shelter.

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

Antonio Moniz, Clerk Frank Freitas Debra J. Corte-Real Secretary

The I.D.C. is an advisory Board consisting of seven members. The Board reports directly to the Select Board concerning all non-commercial development. In the coming year, the I.D.C. plans to continue its marketing follow-up to our produced brochure featuring Dartmouth’s desirability to prospective quality industry. We intend to target specific businesses that have announced relocation or expansion plans. The Board also wishes to develop closer relationships with other town boards and regional organization that deal with industrial development. We continue to work to refine certain Industrial By-laws so as to ensure flexibility for quality development, while offering protection for the environment and neighborhoods. The Board meets monthly and encourages the participation of any and all interested residents. Finally, we will work to fill current vacancies on the Board to insure a more active and effective Industrial Development Commission.

213 Summary of Capital Improvement Planning Committee Recommendations In Priority Order FY 2008

The CIP Committee has prioritized all of their recommendations using the following scale: A – Top priorities; the Committee believes these items must be funded. B – High priorities; the Committee b elieves these items should be funded since they are still of high priority. C – Important but not critical priorities; the Committee believes these items would be useful but if funds are not available, other priorities should be funded first. D – Non-critical requests; items that are not priorities and are requests that could be excluded without negative impact.

Also, please be advised that the CIP Committee has reduced the original list of requests from the departments to this list of recommendations.

The following recommendations are coded as “A” top priorities:

Police Department (6) Police Cruisers $234,000 Mobile Computer Upgrade $ 51,000 (60) Portable radios $ 75,000 (3) Police Detective Vehicles $ 51,000

The CIP Committee recommends this be the top priority in terms of capital needs for the upcomi ng Town Meeting. For the last two-plus budget cycles, no front-line cruisers have been purchased. The Town had been on an annual cruiser replacement program of purchasing 3-4 cruisers per year, which yielded significant savings in repairs and mainte nance. The Committee strongly believes the Town should resume its annual cruiser replacement program. Since no requested cruisers were funded in FY 2006 and FY 2007, this has severely impacted the Police Department’s projected plan and, therefore, now they need to catch up to bring the fleet to lower mileage status and weed out the older higher mileage vehicles that we currently keep repairing at substantial cost.

The Mobile Computer Upgrade is also a necessity. Our present mobile computer equipment is now obsolete due to the upgrading of the State CHSB network. Our equipment in that network is much too slow for the features that the new system has on- board at present. Coupled with the fact that cellular providers have phased out CDPD and are going to a new CDMA interface for connection at a substantial monthly cost, we have no choice but to upgrade to the radio interface.

The current portable radios are at least seven years old and are suffering from a lot of fatigue from constant use. They are constantly being repaired and only have an average useful life of three years. The Police Department would take the best of the old ones and

214 give those to the traffic supervisors and then take the 60 new ones for officers, intermittents, and administration.

The three Police Detective vehicles would be either Ford 500’s or Ford Fusions. In the past, Ford Taurus vehicles have been purchased but since Ford has phased those out, the comparable vehicle would now be the 500 or Fusion. The existing Taurus vehicles would be transferred to inspectors at Town Hall in order to begin to standardize their vehicles. This program of using the Fords for administration vehicles has been very successful.

Department of Public Works Administration (Funded 1/3 General Fund, 1/3 WEF, 1/3 SEF) Mid-size vehicle $22,000

The existing truck used by the Superintendent would be transferred to the Highway Division where it can be better utilized during winter storms to plow in small areas. The cost of this vehicle would be split evenly between the General Fund, Water Enterprise Fund, and Sewer Enterprise Fund. Highway (1) 34,000 GVW Dump Truck w/plow & Slide-in sander $145,000 (1) Recycling Truck $165,000 (1) 40-yd packer (Mack) $200,000 (1) Sand blast unit, Operation Protection Suit, Air Supply System. $ 28,500 Road reconstruction $350,000

These requests of equipment for the Highway division are of extreme importance. The current Highway division dump trucks are aging rapidly. The old trucks also do not calibrate the spreading of salt with the speed of the vehicle, which can cause a buildup of sand and salt in intersections or any time the truck had to slow down. The new sanders would decrease the rate of spreading as the truck slows down. These sanders are needed to properly address the Town’s snow removal needs.

For a Town this size, five reliable recycling trucks are needed and we only have 3 reliable ones bought in 1998, 2001, and 2005. The ones the Town owns from 1993 must begin to be replaced. It is also due to the success of the Board of Public Works and Select Board’s combined efforts to enhance the Town’s recycling program and the increase in the volume of recyclable items collected at curbside.

Also, as the Town should do with police cruisers again, we should begin a regular replacement program for the 40-yd packers. Some of them are aging and wearing down to the point of being very costly to maintain.

Also, for this division, the Town could save a lot of repair money by purchasing a sand- blast unit in order to perform a lot of maintenance and body repair work on our own rather than sending it out to be done. Of course only properly trained individuals would use this.

215

Finally, many roads in Town need to be repaved or reconstructed. This will go towards some of the roads that need to be redone. Chapter 90 funds are not nearly enough to complete all the work that needs to be done.

Construction Division (Funded 1/3 General, 1/3 WEF, 1/3 SEF) (1) Replacement Dozer $100,000

The Construction Division, created in 2005, has yielded great savings for the Town by being able to perform various projects in-house. A top priority for them this year would be to purchase a replacement dozer. The current dozer they use, which is borrowed from the Water and Sewer departments, is too big to be practical for the work they need to do. It cannot even get to some areas where they are working because of its size. This would be funded evenly from the General Fund, Water Enterprise Fund, and Sewer Enterprise Fund.

School Department Electrical circuit panel upgrade (Middle) $70,000 Underground fuel tank replacement (Potter and DeMello) $125,000 Educational Technology upgrade $125,000

The Committee believes that, for the School Department, these two items are their most pressing capital needs. All of the school buildings have updated their electrical panels except for the Middle School, which still has its original, obsolete panel from 1956. To save money, the schools would use their own licensed electricians.

Replacement of the underground fuel tanks at the Potter and DeMello schools is also of great importance. The tanks are approximately 50 years old and if there were to be a leak, the Town would incur substantial cleanup costs. Last year, the old fuel tank at the Quinn School was replaced.

The request for a technology upgrade was a FY 2006 and FY 2007 request that was not brought forward for funding consideration at either of those Town Meetings. Our District Technology Plan includes the replacement of 250 computers annually. Currently, through the school appropriation, approximately 60 computers are replaced per year. In order to maintain adequate technology in our school facilities to adequately educate our children, authorization to fund this request is of great importance.

216

Executive Administrator

Renovations, Town Buildings $65,000

Various renovations and maintenance need to be performed at Town buildings, including the Old Town Hall, the current Town Hall, Police Station, Library, and Council on Aging. For example: roof, trim, and window work needs to be done at the Old Town Hall as well as replacement of some old carpeting at the current Town Hall. In addition some interior painting needs to be done. When this type of work needs to be done, the cost cannot be carried by the regular operating budget.

Libraries

Southworth Emergency Doors $25,000

The two emergency doors and the boiler room door at Southworth Library need to be replaced since their condition is worsening due to their age. They have been patched as much as possible.

Water Pollution Control (Sewer Enterprise Fund) Rebuild Plant Grit Collection Equipment $50,000 Add Biofilter media to Soil filter $15,000 (5) New Compost Exhaust blowers w/ energy efficient motors and drives $75,000

The Sewer Plant grit collection equipment, installed in 1992 and in continuous operation, is well beyond its useful life and must be replaced. Due to its location and operational schedule, it has been exposed to the effects of hydrogen sulfide, which has caused extensive rusting of the chain parts, as well as wear caused by the exposure to the grit it is designed to remove. Replacement of both mechanisms at this time is absolutely necessary to protect downstream equipment from the wearing effects of the grit.

The addition of 400 cubic yards of media to the biofilter will extend the life of the filter by at least 18 months, thus delaying the replacement of the whole biofilter media.

The replacement of the five Compost Exhaust Blowers, with new energy efficient motors and drives, is required to update the existing blowers, which have operated 24 hours per day since 1992. The use of energy efficient motors shall reduce the energy requirements

217 of these blowers. Their replacement will also update the blowers to more efficient blower mechanisms.

Water Department (Water Enterprise Fund) Filter Media replacement 299 Plant $120,000 Upgrade of SCADA system $120,000 ½ ton pickup with Cap and Radio $ 21,000

These filters capture iron and manganese from the five wells on this site. They were put on-line in 1999 and the media is reaching its useful life. It is recommended that the media get replaced within less than every ten years.

The term SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) usually refers to a central system that monitors and controls a complete site or a system spread out over a long distance of miles. The bulk of the site control is actually performed automatically by a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) or by a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). Host control functions are almost always restricted to basic site override or supervisory-level capability. The RTU’s we have cannot be replaced and we cannot get anyone to repair them. We need to upgrade to PLC’s. This will create an improvement in the effectiveness and efficiency of the Water Division.

This truck would replace a 1996 ½-ton pick-up with over 107,000 miles with a similar vehicle with a cap and a new 2-way radio.

The following recommendations are coded as “B” high priorities:

Department of Public Works

Highway Division (1) 34,000 GVW dump truck w/plow & slide-in sander $145,000 (1) Street Sweeper $155,000

Construction Division (funded 1/3 General Fund, 1/3 WEF, 1/3 SEF) (1) Loader w/side dump $115,000 (1) Utility truck, diesel 4x4 w/2-way radio GVW 15,000 $ 40,000

The current Highway division dump trucks are aging rapidly. The old trucks also do not calibrate the spreading of salt with the speed of the vehicle, which can cause a buildup of sand and salt in intersections or any time the truck has to slow down. The new sanders would decrease the rate of spreading as the truck slows down. These sanders are needed to properly address the Town’s snow removal needs. (Please note there is an additional dump truck/sander listed as an “A” top priority).

218 Due to the expansion of Town roadways, an additional sweeper is needed to enable the Department of Public Work’s efforts to clean a majority of the roads during the summer months. This sweeper would replace the 1992 Johnson model. This old model uses vacuum type parts that are always getting corroded. A new Elgin model would require considerably less maintenance and would move at a much better speed on the roads.

The loader with side dump for the Construction Division is specialized equipment to help with the installation of water, sewer, and drain lines in narrow roadway areas.

The utility truck would allow the Construction Division to carry all the necessary tools and equipment needed in an organized and efficient way when they are on a job-site.

School Department Phase I and II Window replacement over 2-3 years at Quinn $1,350,000

The Committee would recommend that this project be put out to bid altogether even if it is done in phases – the Town would most likely get a better price. The windows being replaced were installed in 1967. They are single-pane windows, which are susceptible to leaking and are not energy efficient. These windows are no longer serviceable. Replacement costs will be mitigated over time by savings in energy. This project will be phased in over two to three summer recess breaks.

Libraries Southworth Library Heating, Venting, and Air-conditioning $250,000

The system is over forty years old and has undergone several extensive repairs over the last few years. It is also not energy efficient since there is only one zone – it is not necessary to heat both floors if no one is using the lower level. Therefore, energy costs should be reduced with a new system.

Park Department Compartment Body Truck $ 30,000

The current truck used by the foreman has a high number of miles and is not designed to meet the current maintenance demands of the department. With large facilities now spread throughout the Town, the foreman needs a vehicle that can carry the necessary equipment required for maintaining our growing park system.

The following recommendations are coded as “C” Important but not critical priorities:

Department of Public Works Highway Division Highway Garage Expansion $385,000

219 This would fund an addition onto the newer Highway garage including two additional stalls totaling 40’ x 80’ with an additional 35’ overhang. In return, the Park Department would be able to use part of the old Highway garage since they are in dire need of storage and maintenance space. The Bridge Street garage that the Park Department is currently using is currently beyond repair and is not sufficient for their needs.

Executive Administrator Police Station parking lot repaving and woods cleanup $45,000

The parking lot at the police station is in serious need of repaving and reconstruction, especially since the additions and renovations were completed at the station. Also, a section of woods would be cleared in order to lay down a gravel lot, which would be used to park equipment that is not used as much.

Personnel Board

The Personnel Board was a five-member board appointed by the Town Moderator. Janice Estes resigned from the Board and was succeeded by Brian J. Sylvia. Upon the expiration of his term, Brock Cordeiro was succeeded by Scott M. Corin. The Fall Town Meeting of October, 2007, voted to expand the Board to seven members. Mark Eisenb erg and Br ian Faria were appointed to the newly-created seats. The Personnel Board meets on the third Thursday of the month.

At its May meeting, the Board reviewed correspondence from Town Counsel Anthony J. Savastano citing the following duties and responsibilities for the Personnel Board according to the provisions of the Personnel Bylaws:

Maintaining records to properly evaluate the worth of service by elected Town officials and making recommendations to the Finance Committee upon request; Administering the provisions of the By-laws as well as collective bargaining agreements covering employees, and establishing Rules and Regulations governing personnel administration;

Investigating the positions covered by the Classification Plan and proposing amendments to the Plan or other provisions of the By-laws accordingly; Serving by designation or request to hear grievances of Town employees; Considering amendments to the Classification Plan, Compensation Plan or the By- laws and reporting recommendations to the Finance Committee and at Town Meeting;

220 Determining the information to be submitted to the Town Accountant by all departments, committees, and boards for the purpose of maintaining adequate personnel records of Town employees;

Maintaining written job descriptions or class specifications for positions in the Classification Plan, describing the specific duties, requirements and characteristics that distinguish a classification from other position classes; Reviewing a department head’s opinion that an emp lo yee w h o adva nces to a higher classification should start at a higher step than prescribed due to special circumstances;

Approving step-rate advances of employees within their designated compensation grade, and hearing appeals of employees who are not recommended to receive step-rate advances;

Advising as to the appropriate classification to which positions shall be allocated when those positions are to be filled by a new employee;

Administering the terms of administrative/supervisory employee contracts entered into by the governing Commission, Board, or Committee, and promulgating Rules and Regulations to interpret and clarify those contracts; Appointing physicians to conduct physical examinations of candidates for employment;

Providing advice and assistance to the Select Board, department heads and supervisory officials on personnel matters:

Studying the classification, assignment and utilization of personnel in Town departments (excluding the School Department) and making recommendations for improvements;

Developing and establishing uniform personnel practices and procedures for Town departments, including standardized forms and records;

Approving variations in the Classification and Compensation Plans as necessary for the proper functioning of the Town, subject to ratification by vote of Town Meeting and the availability of appropriated funds;

Collecting written performance evaluations of Town employees; and Appointing Personnel Action Forms and distributing them to the proper Town departments.

Attorney Savastano closed by saying that the powers of the Personnel Board are limited to administering the terms of contracts for administrative/supervisory personnel and do not include participating in the negotiation of the terms of those contracts.

221 The Personnel Board voted at its July meeting to make the following recommendations to the Select Board on the subject of town employment contracts and related matters:

No employment contracts for terms greater than 1 year, except for critical positions, being limited to Executive Administrator, Finance Director, Police Chief and Town Accountant. All proposed employment contracts to be subject to review and recommendation of the Personnel Board. Elimination of all job protection clauses, so-called, in all employment contracts. Fringe benefits in employment contracts not to exceed those fringe benefits available and set forth in the Personnel Bylaws.

No automatic COLA increases for employees. Employees that are subject to the Classification Schedule receive salary step increases per the Classification Schedule; employees subject to employment contracts receive salary merit increases under the terms of the employment contract. Adding the COLA salary increase means, in essences, a double raise. Employees should get the step increase or merit increase, as appropriate and warranted, but NOT also the COLA increase on top of that.

All step increases and merit increases must be supported by evaluations and recommendations from supervisors and subject to review and approval by the Personnel Board.

More employees should be moved back into the Classification Schedule and not provided with employment contracts. Salary increases would be based upon the Classification Schedule and not individual employment contracts, which vary from contract to contract.

The Personnel Board recommends a full review of the existing Personnel Bylaws fringe benefits, and amendments as necessary to control the costs of these benefits to the Town.

The Personnel Board recommends a full review of the current Classification Schedule to (a) move more positions into the Classification Schedule and away from employment contracts, and (b) adjust grade and step level increases. The Personnel Board continues to retain the services of Audrey Quail as secretary.

Personnel Board Members

Christopher C. Cassara, Chair Term Expires July 1, 2009 Jeffery W. Stauffer, Vice Chair Term Expires July 1, 2008 Scott M. Corin Term Expires July 1, 2010 Brian Faria Term Expires July 1, 2009 Alison G. Nastanski Term Expires July 1, 2008 Brian J. Sylvia Term Expires July 1, 2010

222

TOWN CLERK

CURRRENT STATISTICS

FOR THE YEAR 2007

Area...... 61.82 Square Miles Miles of Highway...... 218.68 Population as of January 1, 2007…………………………….33,833

Prec Democra Green- Libertarian Republican Unenrolled Others GRAND

t Rainbow TOTAL

01 711 1 8 206 1218 3 2147

02 615 6 6 160 866 3 1656

03 343 2 3 81 673 4 1106

04 852 2 7 213 1109 5 2188

05 966 2 8 245 1172 1 2394

06 1079 1 9 151 930 7 2177

07 981 2 5 238 1096 3 2325

08 1012 0 8 178 844 6 2048

09 876 4 8 386 1236 5 2515

10 761 4 6 317 1283 9 2380

Total 8196 24 68 2175 10427 46 20,936

223

ELECTIONS

Annual Town Election April 3, 2007 Special Town Election July 31, 2007

TOWN MEETING

Spring A nnual Tow n Meeting J une 5, 200 7 Fall Annual Town Meeting October 16, 2007

BOARD OF REGISTRARS OF VOTERS

Randall T. Weeks, Jr. Term Expires 2010 Thomas M. Brooks, Jr. Term Expires 2008 Mary E llen DeF rias Te rm Expires 2 009 Eleanor J. White Clerk, Ex-Officio

TOW N CLERK/EL ECTIONS

Eleano r J. Whit e, Town Cle rk Te rm Expires 2009 Lynn M. Medeiros (Appointed 10/7/02) Asst. Town Clerk er

Moderator

Steven Sharek (Elected 2004) Term Expires 2009

224 TOWN CLERK Vital Statistics

AVERAGE AGE BIRTHS MARRIAGES DEATHS DECEASED Males Females Totals

1981 106 101 207 166 224 74.2 1982 121 88 209 145 229 75.5 1983 96 98 194 154 271 71.5 1984 81 103 184 137 253 75.2 1985 95 100 195 149 250 74.3 1986 78 91 169 122 206 74.5 1987 105 90 196 129 231 78.0 1988 105 97 202 136 269 65.9 1989 83 89 172 122 229 75.4 1990 108 109 217 130 265 73.5 1991 118 105 223 142 250 73.2 1992 88 89 177 114 256 75.5 1993 111 79 190 152 274 73.9 1994 107 83 190 144 250 73.1 1995 109 98 207 155 267 77.9 1996 97 89 186 121 273 76.3 1997 90 93 183 119 257 77.9 1998 106 107 213 138 247 75.9 1999 101 91 192 134 268 77.7 2000 116 103 219 145 287 76.0 2001 93 89 182 115 275 76.7 2002 95 114 209 124 289 77.0 2003 97 105 202 111 304 76.7 2004 124 100 224 124 276 79 2005 93 98 191 93 257 77.3 2006 95 96 181 133 298 75.4 2007 94 84 178 135 286 77

225 TOWN OF

DARTTMOU H

MINUTES

226 SPRING ANNUAL AND SPECIAL

TOWN MEETING

TUESDAY, JUNE 5, 2007

SPRING ANNUAL AND SPECIAL TOWN MEETING JUNE 5, 2007 INDEX ART PAG SUBJECT APPROPRIATI SOURCE E ONS OF # FUNDIN G 1* 7 Enterprise Fund, Solid Waste and Recycling Division,

Transfer Station (SWEF)

2* 8 Funding Solid Waste Enterprise Fund $1,851,378 SWEF

3* 8 Authorization for Expenditures

4* 9 Salaries of Elected Officials

5* 9 Schedule A-FY/2008 $64,147,062.74 See Sch. A 6 20 FY/2008 Budget Funding Through Contingent Appropriation Withdrawn

7* 21 Funding Water Department Budget – Enterprise Fund 3,667,001.97 WEF

8* 21 Funding Sewer Department Budget – Enterprise Fund 3,225,047.88 SEF

9* 22 Funding Dartmouth Senior Social Day Program 196,044.61 Senior Social Day 10* 22 Funding Waterways Management Department –Enterprise 209,959 WMEF

Fund

11* 23 Community Preservation Act – FY/2008 Budget 178,400 CPA

12 23 Acceptance Of Capital Improvement Planning Committee

Report and

227 Funding FY/2008 Capital Plan

13* 27 Capital Improvement Appropriations 70,000 School Excess 125,000 Fuel Bond Tanks Proceeds 25,000 Library 14* 27 Appropriation To Correct Sewer System Inflow 100,000 SEF/II/RE

and Infiltration Issues

15* 28 Funding For A Comprehensive Waste water Management Plan 650,000 Borrowing

16* 28 Supplemental Funding Bayview Sewer Project 750,000 Borrowing

17* 29 Amendment To General By-Laws – Dogs – Fee Schedule

18* 29 Dartmouth General By-Laws –Alarms—Fee Schedule

19* 30 Amendment To General By-Laws – Parking Violations – Fee

Schedule

20* 33 Town Clerk Fee Schedule

21* 33 Weights and Measures Fee Schedule

22* 35 Police Promotional Examinations

23* 37 Petition For Special Enabling Legislation To The Great and

General Court Of The Commonwealth

24* 37 Acceptance Of Report Of The Dartmouth School Building

and Renovation Study Committee

25* 37 Street Acceptance – Lucy Little Road

26* 38 Street Acceptance – Christine Drive

27* 38 Department Of Public Works Water Division Land 72,500 WEF/RE

Acquisition

28* 38 Sewer Easement Tucker Road To Allen Street

228 29* 38 Acceptance Of Right Of Way Easements And Land Takings

30* 39 Zoning By-Law Amendment -- Residential Size, Land Base

Wind Energy Conversion Facilities

31 49 Tucker Road Sewer Easement Withdrawn

32* 50 Community Preservation Act – Historic Building Inventory 42,600 CPA

33* 50 Community Preservation Act – Land Acquisition 150,000 CPA

34* 50 Community Preservation Act – Recreation Master Plan 40,000 CPA

35* 51 Services Contract For Apponagansett Park Concession

36* 51 General By-Law Amendment Enforcement Of Red Light

Running

Violation – Violations – Non-Criminal, Section 9

37* 53 Amendment To Town Charter – Department Of Public Works

38* 54 Stabilization Fund $184,000 Tax Levy

SPRING ANNUAL

SPECIAL TOWN MEETING JUNE 5, 2007 INDEX 1ST 55 Line Item Transfers/Supplement to Schedule A – FY/2007

2ST 55 Authorization for Appropriation – Waterways $41,000 Waterway s/RR M*

3ST 55 Senior Social Day Program $3,579 SSD

4ST 56 Waterways Enterprise Fund –Retained Earnings $1,903.31 WWE/RE

229 M*

5ST 56 Sewer Enterprise Fund – Retained Earnings $50,000 SEF/RE

6ST 56 Community Preservation Act $38,669.45 CPA URFB M*

7ST 56 Water Enterprise Fund – Retained Earnings Withdrawn

8ST 57 Appropriation for Funding of Collective Bargaining Union $90,000 STAB

M* Settlement

9ST 57 Prior Year Invoices $746.10 STAB

230

SUMMARY OF APPROPRIATIONS

SPRING ANNUAL TOWN MEETING JUNE 5, 2007

Gross Appropriations $73,579,163.20

Tax Levy $61,320,579.24 Borrowing 1,400,000.00 Water Enterprise Fund 3,667,001.97 Sewer Enterprise Fund 3,225,047.88 Waterways Management Enterprise Fund 209,959.00

(SWEF 1,851,378.00) (WEF 75,000.00) (SEF 25,000.00) (Conservation Receipts 40,000.00) (Overlay Surplus 150,000.00) (Sr. Social Day Trust Fund 196,044.61) (CPA Surcharge 646,612.50) (Excess Bond Proceeds 220,000.00) (Dartmouth Cable 30,016.00) (SBA Resd for Debt 40,490.00) (Water Receipts/Constr. Div. 204,704.00) (Water Retained Earnings 72,500.00) (II Retained Earnings 100,000.00) (II Receipts/Const. Div. 104,830.00)

Total $73,579,163.20

SUMMARY OF APPROPRIATIONS

SPECIAL TOWN MEETING JUNE 5, 2007

Gross Appropriations $225,897.81

Transfer from:

231 Water Ways Enterprise Fund Receipts 41,000.00 Waterways Management Enterprise Fund 1,903.31 Sewer Enterprise Fund Retained Earnings 50,000.00 Senior Social Day Program 3,579.00 CPA Unreserved Fund Balance 38,669.45 Stabilization Fund 90,746.10 Foundation Reserve

Total $225,897.81 ARTICLE 5 SCHEDULE A – TOWN CHARGES

General Government 2,655,856.27 Tax Levy 120,761.00 Water Enterprise Fund 94,771.00 Sewer Enterprise Fund 8,011.00 Soc. Sen. Day 40,000 Conservation 22,946 Waterways

Public Safety 5,489,075.24 Tax Levy

Health and Sanitation 657,669.30 Tax Levy 4,517.00 Water Enterprise Fund 3,506.00 Sewer Enterprise Fund

Department of Public Works 713,135.46 Tax Levy 510,944.00 Water Enterprise Fund 315,482.00 Sewer Enterprise Fund 841,137.00 Solid Waste Enterprise Fund

Veteran’s Services 137,133.30 Tax Levy

Schools 32,933,713.00 Tax Levy

Libraries 860,322.16 Tax Levy

Parks and Recreation 260,696.54 Tax Levy

Pensions and Retirement 2,966,956.00 Tax Levy 128,233.00 Water Enterprise Fund 142,481.00 Sewer Enterprise Fund

Unclassified 8,993,294.85 Tax Levy

232 155,165.00 Water Enterprise Fund 166,411.00 Sewer Enterprise Fun d 150,000.00 Overlay 30,016.00 Dartmouth Cable Debt 5,468,727.12 Tax Levy 235,612.50 CPA Surchar ge 40,490 Debt Bal. Excess TOT AL 64,147,062.74

Tax Levy 61,136,579.24 Water Enterprise Fund 919,620.00 Sewer Enterprise Fund 722,651.00 Other 527,075.50 SWEF (Solid Waste Enterprise Fund) 841,137.00

TOWN OF DARTMOUTH

SPRING ANNUAL & SPECIAL TOWN MEETING

JUNE 5, 2007

Pursuant to a warrant duly issued the Spring Annual and Specia l Town Meeting of the inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth, represented by their duly elected and qualified Town Meeting Members, was held in the auditorium of the Dartmouth Middle School on Tuesday, June 5, 2007.

The Meeting was called to order at 9:00 AM o’clock in the morning by the Moderator, Steven Sharek.

The Moderator declared that their being 189 Town Meeting Members present out of a total of 373 and 187 being a quorum, a quorum was present. Addit ional Members checked in after the meeting was called to order.

Precinct Membership Attended Absent 1 39 27 12 2 39 33 6 3 23 12 11 4 39 30 9 5 39 34 5 6 38 26 12 7 39 24 15 8 39 33 6 9 39 34 5

233 10 39 35 4 TOTAL 373 288 85 100% 77% 23%

The Moderator asked for a moment of silence in remembrance of Gilbert Fernandez – Town Meeting Member, Friend of the Library and Conservation Commissioner and Teacher at Dartmouth High School, Kathryn C. Glennon – Town Meeting Member, Frederick R. Hawes – Volunteer Fireman in District #3 and programmed Town Voting Machines, Mary L. Martin – P oll Work for Town Elections, Ralph Schmarsow – Library Trustee, Town Meeting Member, Housing Authority, Writer/Interviewer for the “Dartm outh Wanderers” with DCTV and Council on Aging and Beverly Glennon – Town Me etin g Member and Member of Historical Commission.

The Moderator appointed Lynn M. Medeiros and Michelle DeFranco as Tellers.

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the meeting note the correct call of the Warrant and the lawful posting and return

of service thereon.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 9:14 AM

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Moderator is hereby relieved from reading each article in its entirety

and is allowed to refer to them by title and number.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED 9:14 A.M.

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Moderato r is hereby allowed to take up action on a ny of the several

articles out of numerical sequence as he may determine.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 9:14 A.M.

ARTICLE 1: ENTERPRISE FUND, SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLING DIVISION,

234 TRANSFER ST ATION (SWEF)

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town accept the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 53F ½, that authorizes the establishment of a separate account classified as the Enterprise Fund; and further that the Town vote to authorize the establishment of the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund (SWEF).

The Solid Waste Enterprise Fund shall be separately maintained by the Town Treasurer and all receipts, revenues and funds from any source derived from all activities of the Solid Waste and Recycling Divisions (“Divisions”) of the Department of Public Works, and the Transfer Station and all receipts, revenues and funds otherwise received by the Divisions or the Transfer Station or for their benefit or account shall be deposited in such separate account. The Treasurer may invest the funds in such separate account in the manner authorized. Any interest earned thereon shall be credited to and become part of such separate account. The books and records of the enterprise shall be maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principals.

Adoption of this Article is to go into effect on July 1, 2007.

Motion made to postpone Indefinitely.

Motion FAILS 9:56 AM

Now comes the vote on the main motion.

SO VOTED. 10:14 AM

ARTICLE 2: FUNDING SOLID WASTE ENTERPRISE FUND

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $1,851,378 pursuant to the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 44 Section 53½, Enterprise Fund – Solid Waste Operating Budget:

Estimated FY2008 Solid Waste Expenses Estimated Salaries $574,143.00 Expense $272,084.00 Capital Outlay $161,000.00 Administrative Costs $320,625.00

235 Town Overhead $523,526.00

TOTALS $1,851,378.00

FY2008 Estimated Revenue Estimated Revenue Solid Waste Base Rate $925,689.00 Pay As You Throw (PAYT) $925,689.00 Fees TOTALS $1,851,378.00

SO VOTED. 10:15 am

MOVED and duly seconded:

To recess the Annual Town Meeting and go to the Special Town Meeting 10:15 AM

The Annual Town Meeting was called back to order at 10:30 AM

ARTICLE 3: AUTHORIZATION FOR EXPENDITURES

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town authorize the Select Board to enter into contracts for the expenditure of funds allotted, or to b e allotted by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for construction, reconstruction and improvements to Town roads and ways.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 9:16 AM

ARTICLE 4: SALARIES OF ELECTED OFFICIALS

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town fix the salaries and compensation of the following elected officers of the Town as provided in M.G.L., Chapter 81 Sec. 108 and Acts; in Amendment thereof:

Finance Com Rec.

Town Moderator 1@ $ 250.00 $ 250.00 0 Select Board 5@ $ 2,400.00 $12,000.00 0 Town Clerk 1@ $ 62,834.38 $62,834.38 $62,834.38

236 Town Assessors 3@ $ 1,000.00 $ 3,000.00 0 Planning Board 5@ $ 525.00 $ 2,625.00 0 Board of Health 3@ $ 525.00 $ 1,575.00 0 Town Agent 1@ $ 1,871.00 $ 1,871.00 0

Motion made to amend by restoring the salaries of Elected Officials.

Motion FAILS. 11:30 AM

Now comes the vote on the main motion.

SO VOTED. 11:32 AM

ARTICLE 5: SCHEDULE A—FY/2008

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $64,147,062.74 from various funding sources, for the purpose of funding expenses, salary and compensation of all elected and a p pointed officers of the Town, for payment of debt and interest, charges and outlays of the various and several Town Departments for the ensuing 2008 fiscal year.

Recommendat Recommendatio ion n of Finance FY 2008 FY 2008 of Finance Committee Request Request Committee 2% reduction (by line item) (by dept.) (by line item) (by dept) General Government

Town Meeting Police Off Duty sa lar ie s 500.00 0.00 Expense 3,200.00 3,200.00 total 3,700.00 3,200.00 3,136.00

Moderator Salary of Moderator 250.00 0.00 Expense 0.00 0.00 total 250.00 0.00 0.00

Office of the Select Board Board salaries 12,000.00 0.00 Professional salaries (Exec. Administrator) 118,809.41 118,809.41

237 Professional salaries (Administrative Ass t) 48,396.72 0.00 Professional salaries - Other Salaries 34,094.23 34,094.44 Clerical salaries 85,889.19 56,143.67 Longevity 1,450.00 1,450.00 Expense 35,200.00 25,000.00 total 335,839.55 235,497.52 230,787.57

Finance Committee Clerical salaries 9,546.34 7,637.07 Expense 310.00 310.00 total 9,856.34 7,947.07 7,788.13

Town Accountant Professional salaries (Town Accountant) 77,756.87 77,756.87 Clerical salaries 82,435.17 82,435.17 Longevity 750.00 750.00 Expense 905.00 905.00 total 161,847.04 161,847.04 158,610.10

Town Agent Salary of Town Agent 1,871.00 0.00 Expense 3,580.00 3,580.00 total 5,451.00 3,580.00 3,508.40

Assessors Board salaries 3,000.00 0.00 Professional salaries (Admin. of Assessing) 82,745.52 82,745.52 Professional salaries (Asst. Admin. of Assessing) 0.00 0.00 Clerical salaries 115,608.38 115,608.38 Longevity 2,400.00 2,400.00 Expense 7,900.00 7,900.00 Appraisal services 20,000.00 20,000.00 total 231,653.90 228,653.90 224,080.82

Director of Budget & Finance/Treasurer Professional salaries (Director of Budget & Finance / Treasurer) 119,244.02 119,244.02 Clerical salaries 127,012.95 127,012.95 Overtime and Additional Hours 39,500.00 10,000.00 Longevity 1,800.00 1,800.00 Expense 75,210.00 75,210.00

238 Capital outlay 5,000.00 0.00 Banking services 100,000.00 100,000.00 Tax Title expense 40,000.00 30,000.00 total 507,766.97 463,266.97 454,001.63

Town Collector Professional salaries (Town Collector) 80,903.21 80,903.21 Clerical salaries 187,537.87 187,537.87 Longevity 2,250.00 2,250.00 Expense 43,400.00 51,128.00 total 314,091.08 321,819.08 315,382.70

Town Counsel Professional Salaries (Town Counsel) 0.00 0.00 Prof/Other Salaries (Municipal Paralegal Specialist) 34,094.23 34,094.43 Clerical salaries 22,845.98 22,845.98 Longevity 300.00 300.00 Expense 219,700.00 219,700.00 total 276,940.21 276,940.41 271,401.60

Personnel Board Clerical salaries 1,585.00 1,268.00 Expense 200.00 200.00 total 1,785.00 1,468.00 1,438.64

Computer Services Professional salaries (Information Systems Manager) 75,823.90 75,823.90 Other Salaries 50,253.68 50,253.68 Longevity 300.00 300.00 Expense 243,087.00 243,087.00 total 369,464.58 369,464.58 362,075.29

Town Clerk Professional salaries (Town Clerk) 62,834.38 62,834.38 Clerical salaries 77,712.56 77,712.56 Longevity 450.00 450.00 Expense 8,400.00 8,400.00 total 149,396.94 149,396.94 146,409.00

239

Election & Registration Board salaries 2,390.00 0.00 Other salaries 20,000.00 30,000.00 Expense 7,100.00 7,100.00 total 29,490.00 37,100.00 36,358.00

Conservation Commission Clerical salaries 38,787.62 38,787.62 Inspector salary (Environmental Affairs Coordinator) 69,378.87 69,378.87 Conservation Officer salary (Inspector) 0.00 0.00 Longevity 450.00 450.00 Expense 7,300.00 7,300.00 total 115,916.49 115,916.49 113,598.16

Planning Board Board salaries 2,625.00 0.00 Professional salaries (Planning Director) 76,916.28 76,916.28 Prof/Other salaries (Asst. Planning Director) 0.00 0.00 Clerical salaries 70,617.50 70,617.50 Other salaries 2,000.00 2,000.00 Longevity 1,800.00 1,800.00 Expense 6,466.00 6,466.00 total 160,424.78 157,799.78 154,643.78

Board of Appeals Clerical salaries 41,689.55 41,689.55 Longevity 450.00 450.00 Expense 3,147.50 3,147.50 total 45,287.05 45,287.05 44,381.31

Soil Conservation Clerical salaries 3,628.94 2,903.94 Inspector salaries 3,341.90 2,673.90 Expense 400.00 400.00 total 7,370.84 5,977.84 5,858.28

Capital Planning Committee Clerical salaries 912.74 730.74 Expense 0.00 0.00 total 912.74 730.74 716.13

240

Industrial Development Comm. Clerical salaries 0.00 0.00 Expense 0.00 0.00 total 0.00 0.00 0.00

Town Hall/Office Buildings Custodial salaries 154,880.73 122,299.73 Longevity 1,500.00 1,500.00 Expense 292,700.00 292,700.00 Capital outlay 0.00 0.00 total 449,080.73 416,499.73 408,169.74

3,176,525.2 SUMMARY-GENERAL GOVERNMENT 4 3,002,393.14 2,942,345.27

Public Safety

Police Department Professional salaries (chief) 127,538.45 127,538.45 Clerical salaries 216,086.53 216,086.53 3,504,177.9 Police Officer salaries 8 3,357,503.15 Police Officer holiday pay 53,868.82 53,868.82 Police Officer overtime 250,000.00 250,000.00 Dispatcher salaries 388,945.82 388,945.82 Dispatcher holiday pay 5,600.00 5,600.00 School Crossing Guard salaries 135,149.70 67,574.85 Dispatcher overtime 36,000.00 36,000.00 Holiday salaries (chief) 5,375.18 5,375.18 Longevity 21,600.00 21,600.00 Expense 577,435.00 577,435.00 Capital outlay 0.00 0.00 5,321,777.4 total 8 5,107,527.80 5,005,377.24 Building Department Professional salaries (Dir. Of Inspectional Services) 78,842.67 78,842.67 Clerical salaries 81,867.23 81,867.23 Inspector salaries 139,084.06 139,084.06 Other salaries 31,400.00 31,400.00 Longevity 1,200.00 1,200.00 Expense 11,670.00 12,620.00

241 total 344,063.96 345,013.96 338,113.68

Sealer of Weights & Measures Salary of Sealer 3,135.00 2,508.00 Expense 575.00 575.00 total 3,710.00 3,083.00 3,021.34

Emergency Management Agency Expense 2,700.00 2,700.00 total 2,700.00 2,700.00 2,646.00

Animal Control Animal Control Officer salary 53,470.42 53,470.42 Asst.'s Animal Control salaries 19,044.77 0.00 Longevity 300.00 300.00 Expense 30,550.00 30,550.00 total 103,365.19 84,320.42 82,634.01

Parking Control Salary 1,200.00 960.00 Expense 150.00 150.00 total 1,350.00 1,110.00 1,087.80

Natural Resources Professional salaries (Shellfish Officer) 52,722.52 7,842.00 Other salaries 0.00 0.00 Expense 9,600.00 3,000.00 total 62,322.52 10,842.00 10,625.16

Street Lights 95,000.00 95,000.00 30,000.00 29,400.00

Traffic Lights 16,500.00 16,500.00 16,500.00 16,170.00

5,950,789.1 SUMMARY-PUBLIC SAFETY 5 5,601,097.18 5,489,075.24

Schools 2,098,055.0 GNB Voc-Tech 0 1,200,000.00 33,715,200. Public Schools 71 31,721,713.00 Bristol County Agricultural High School 12,000.00 12,000.00

242 35,825,255. total 71 3 2,933,713.00 32,933,713.00

35,825,255. SUMMARY-SCHOOLS 71 32,933,713.00 32,933,713.00

Public Works

DPW-Salaries Board salaries 750.00 0.00 Professional salaries (Supt of Public Works) 116,350.41 116,350.41 Professional salaries (Asst Supt of Public Works) 0.00 0.00 Admin. Clerical salaries 185,071.18 185,071.18 Engineering salaries 336,041.50 336,041.50 Highway salaries 880,694.65 824,694.65 Solid waste salaries 358,840.03 0.00 Transfer Station salaries 94,446.43 0.00 Solid waste/recycling salaries 120,407.06 0.00 Construction Salaries 478,904.40 478,904.40 Longevity 12,300.00 12,300.00 2,583,805.6 total 6 1,953,362.14 1,914,294.90

DPW-Expense Admin. Expense 21,450.00 21,450.00 Engineering expense 13,392.00 13,392.00 Highway expense 362,230.00 362,230.00 Solid waste expense 100,400.00 0.00 Transfer Station expense 90,694.25 0.00 Snow & Ice removal 45,000.00 45,000.00 Solid waste/recycling expense 80,990.00 0.00 Construction expense 33,850.00 33,850.00 total 748,006.25 475,922.00 466,403.56

Highway-Chapter 90 20,000.00 0.00 total 20,000.00 0.00 0.00

3,351,811.9 SUMMARY-DPW 1 2,429,284.14 2,380,698.46

Health & Sanitation

243 Board of Health Board salaries 1,575.00 0.00 Professional salaries (Public Health Director) 80,762.09 80,762.09 Clerical salaries 69,906.49 69,906.49 Inspector salaries 106,940.84 106,940.84 Other Salaries 5,540.42 5,540.42 Rabies Control salaries 5,776.08 5,776.08 Longevity 1,650.00 1,650.00 Expense 14,600.00 14,600.00 Elderly Nutrition 8,644.20 8,644.20 Rabies Control expense 2,500.00 2,500.00 Nursing Services 24,975.00 15,000.00 Mosquito Control 1.00 1.00 total 322,871.12 311,321.12 305,094.70

Ambulance Contract Service 286,000.00 286,000.00 286,000.00 286,000.00

Youth Commission Professional salaries (Youth Advocate) 66,393.30 66,393.30 Clerical salaries 6,908.70 6,908.70 Longevity 600.00 600.00 Expense 2,218.45 2,218.00 total 76,120.45 76,120.00 74,597.60

SUMMARY-HEALTH & SANITATION 684,991.57 673,441.12 665,692.30

Veterans' Services

Veterans' Services Professional salaries (Veterans' Agent) 41,281.94 41,281.94 Expense 1,500.00 1,500.00 Veterans' benefits 97,150.00 97,150.00 total 139,931.94 139,931.94 137,133.30

SUMMARY-VETERANS' SERVICES 139,931.94 139,931.94 137,133.30

Libraries

244 Professional salaries (Library Director) 79,927.85 79,927.85 Professional salaries (other) 242,214.56 189,347.40 Clerical salaries 350,082.94 321,725.87 Custodial salaries 93,583.83 81,405.32 Other salaries 68,348.03 34,223.31 Longevity 6,750.00 6,750.00 Expense 138,000.00 107,000.00 Expense-books, etc. 186,500.00 57,500.00 1,165,407.2 total 1 877,879.75 860,322.16

1,165,407.2 SUMMARY-LIBRARIES 1 877,879.75 860,322.16 Park & Recreation

Recreation Department Professional salaries (Recreation Director) 0.00 0.00 Clerical salaries 4,982.65 4,982.65 Custodial salaries 40,605.00 0.00 Other salaries 23,592.80 23,592.80 Expense 12,300.00 12,300.00 total 81,480.45 40,875.45 40,057.94

Park Commission Professional salaries 60,364.93 60,364.93 Clerical salaries 24,969.06 24,969.06 Other salaries 113,260.44 113,260.44 Expense 26,547.00 26,547.00 Capital Outlay 0.00 0.00 total 225,141.43 225,141.43 220,638.60

SUMMARY-PARK & RECREATION 306,621.88 266,016.88 260,696.54

3,237,670.0 Pensions & Retirement 0 3,237,670.00

3,237,670.0 Pensions & Retirement 0 3,237,670.00 3,237,670.00

Unclassified

Council on Aging Professional salaries (Director of COA) 57,736.18 57,736.18

245 Clerical salaries 38,962.21 38,962.21 Custodial salaries 35,396.38 35,396.38 Longevity 900.00 900.00 Expense 63,195.60 58,195.60 total 196,190.37 191,190.37 187,366.56

4,650,860.3 4,650,860.3 Group Insurance 5 5 4,650,860.35 4,650,860.35

Elected Officials Health Insurance 37,149.60 37,149.60 6,380.92 6,380.92

Funding DTEA FY07 Contract Settlement 90,000.00 90,000.00 90,000.00 90,000.00

Salary & Budget Adjustments 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Police Medical 750,000.00 750,000.00 750,000.00 750,000.00

Assessment Reserve 898,055.00 898,055.00 898,055.00 898,055.00

Tuition Reimbursement 1,500.00 1,500.00 0.00 0.00

Buzzards Bay Action Committee 992.50 992.50 0.00 0.00

Agricultural Trust Council 400.00 400.00 0.00 0.00

Training 2,000.00 2,000.00 0.00 0.00

Center for Non-Violence 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Agricultural Commission 400.00 400.00 0.00 0.00

S.R.P.E.D.D. 4,953.48 4,953.48 4,953.48 4,953.48

War Veterans Graves 1,100.00 1,100.00 0.00 0.00

Veterans of Foreign Wars 400.00 400.00 0.00 0.00

Memorial-Veterans Day 1,790.00 1,790.00 0.00 0.00

Medicare & Unemployment Compensation 499,000.00 499,000.00 499,000.00 499,000.00

Other Unemployment Compensation 0.00 0.00 25,242.00 25,242.00

246

School Unemployment Compensation 264,610.54 264,610.54 264,610.54 264,610.54

Historical Commission 500.00 500.00 0.00 0.00

MMA - Dues 4,191.00 4,191.00 0.00 4,191.00

Week's Plummer Post 100.00 100.00 0.00 0.00

Town/Finance Reports 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Regional Refuse Management District 150,568.00 150,568.00 150,568.00 150,568.00

Sick Leave Incentive 42,850.00 42,850.00 42,850.00 42,850.00

Reserve Fund 630,000.00 630,000.00 630,000.00 625,809.00

Rape Crisis Center 1,500.00 1,500.00 0.00 0.00

Police Dare Program 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Visiting Dignitaries/Sister City 500.00 500.00 0.00 0.00

Recreation/Water 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

S/L- Comp Time Buyouts 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Utility & Maintenance Reserve 25,000.00 25,000.00 0.00 0.00

Manpower Expense 25,000.00 25,000.00 0.00 0.00

Police Grant Match 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Worker Compensation & Multi-peril 1,185,000.0 1,185,000.0 Insurance 0 0 1,185,000.00 1,185,000.00

Communications 110,000.00 110,000.00 110,000.00 110,000.00

9,574,610.8 SUMMARY - UNCLASSIFIED 4 9,498,710.66 9,494,886.85

247 Maturing Debt 1,499,960.4 Principal 5 1,499,960.45 2,206,180.0 Principal - School 0 2,206,180.00 3,706,140.4 total 5 3,706,140.45 3,706,140.45

Interest On Debt Interest on principal 505,231.72 505,231.72 1,417,891.5 Interest on principal - Exclusions 0 1,417,891.50 Lease payments 5,565.95 5,565.95 Interest on short-term notes 110,000.00 110,000.00 2,038,689.1 total 7 2,038,689.17 2,038,689.17

5,744,829.6 SUMMARY-INTEREST AND DEBT 2 5,744,829.62 5,744,829.62 69,158,445. GRAND TOTAL 07 64,404,967.43 64,147,062.74

Moved and duly seconded:

Motion made to amend Schedule A to full y fund Sch ool Crossing Guards from Stabilization Fund.

Motion FAILS. 3:00 PM

MOVED and duly seconded:

Motion made to amend Schedule A/Unclassified -- MMA Dues for FY/2008 by restoring the $4,191 from Reserve Fund.

SO VOTED. 3:57 PM

Now comes the vote on the main motion.

SO VOTED. YES 244 NO 8 3:59 PM

Sense of the meeting motion.

To compare the salaries of anyone who makes $90,000 and up, including the school department with other communities.

SO VOTED. 3:07 PM

248

ARTICLE 6: FY/2008 BUDGET FUNDING THROUGH CONTINGENT APPROPRIATION

Moved and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate a sum of money fr om the levy by contingent appropriations in conformity with M.G.L. Chapter 59 Sec. 21 C (M) for th e purpose of supplementing various operating budgets for the FY/2008, said contingent appropriations shall b e effective upon passage of an override question at an election to be held within the prescribed period of the law.

MOVED and duly seconded:

To WITHDRAW.

SO VOTED. 11:32 AM

ARTICLE 7: FUNDING WATER DEPARTMENT BUDGET – ENTERPRISE FUND

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $3,667,001.97 pursuant to the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40 Sec. 39K and Chapter 44 Sec. 53F ½, Enterprise Fund – Water Department, for the purpose of funding the FY/2008 Water Operating Budget, as follows:

FY2006 FY2007 Estimated FY2008 Expended Appropriated Water Expenses Estimated

2,074,297.31 2,063,466.43 Water Division 2,213,780.01

65,989.74 4,831.49 Capital Outlay 0.00 143,079.00 143,079.00 Administrative Costs 150,918.00 74,912.00 74,912.00 Engineering Costs 80,322.00 364,886.00 364,886.00 Town Overhead 408,676.00 656,799.48 819,705.50 Debt Serv ice (Princ. & Int.) 769,055.96 20,401.49 44,250.00 Debt Service (Int. & Short term) 44,250.00

3,400,365.02 3,515,130.42 TOTALS 3,667,001.97

FY2006 FY2007 FY2008 Actual Estimated Revenues Estimated

249 Revenues Estimated Revenues

Revenues 286,190.00 150,000.00 System Development Charge 150,000.00 114,251.39 50,000.00 Other Departmental Revenue 50,000.00 27,114.44 14,106.00 Interest Earned/Demands 10,000.00 80,523.11 40,000.00 Investment Income 60,000.00 3,125.04 1,000.00 Insurance Recovery 1,000.00 3,483,136.79 3,260,024.42 Water Rates 3,396,001.97

3,994,340.77 3,515,130.42 TOTALS 3,667,001.97

SO VOTED. 11:32 AM

ARTICLE 8: FUNDING SEWER DEPARTMENT BUDGET – ENTERPRISE FUND

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $3,225,047.88 pursuant to the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40 Sec. 39K and Chapter 44 Se c. 53F½, Enterprise Fund – Sewer Department, for the purpose of funding the FY/2008 Sewer Operating Budget, as follows:

FY2006 FY2007 Estimated FY2008 Expended Appropriated Sewer Expenses Estimated 548,177.00 529,385.07 Sewer Division 566,708.45

21,592.74 4,831.49 Capital Outlay 0.00 1,422,414.20 1,406,676.24 Water Pollution Control 1,655,257.06 9,662.98 9,662.98 C apital Outlay 0.00 53,369.00 53,369.00 Administrative Costs 56,359.00 62,426.00 62,426.00 Engineering Costs 66,935.00 62,358.00 62,358.00 Engineering Costs – I/I 62,358.00

361,344.00 361,344.00 Town Overhead 407,169.00

110,174.81 250,486.22 Debt Service (Princ. & Int.) 347,261.37

Debt Service (Interest-Short 0.00 0.00 63,000.00

250 Term)

2,651,518.73 2,740,539.00 TOTALS 3,225,047.88

FY2006 FY2007 FY2008 Actual Estimated Estimated Revenues Estimated Revenues Revenues Revenues 307,242.45 150,000.00 System Development Charge 180,000.00 96,520.72 100,000.00 Other Departmental Reve nue 100,000.00 195,563.50 150,000.00 Infiltration/Inflow 75,000.00 13,792.76 8,605.00 Interest Earned/Demands 5,000.00 26,951.19 10,000. 00 Investment Income 21,500.00 16,144.00 4,300.00 State Revenue 4,300.00

2,249,195.31 2,317,634.00 Sewer Rates 2,839,247.88

2,905,409.93 2,740,539.00 TOTALS 3,225,047.88

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 11:34 AM

ARTICLE 9: FUNDING DARTMOUTH SENIOR SOCIAL DAY PROGRAM

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $196,044.61 from Social Day Receipts for the purpose of funding the Dartmouth Senior Social Day Program for FY/2008.

SO VOTED. YES 252 NO 2 11:35 AM

ARTICLE 10: FUNDING WATERWAYS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMEN T – ENTERPRISE FUND

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $209,959.00 from Waterways Receipts for the purpose of funding the Waterways Management Department for FY/2008.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 11:38 AM

MOVED and seconded to amend by:

Waterways budget be added to the warrant yearly.

251

SO VOTED. YES 251 NO 1 11:38 AM

ARTICLE 11: COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT – FY/2008 BUDGET

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate or reserve for later appropriation monies from FY/2008 Community Preservation Fund Annual Revenues in the amount of $178,400 to be allocated as follows:

$45,800 Historic Preservation Reserve $88,400 Community Housing Reserve $44 ,200 Administrative Expenses ______$178,400 TOTAL

SO VOTED. YES 247 NO 5 11:40 AM

ARTICLE 12: ACCEPTANCE OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLANNING COMMITTEE REPORT AND FUNDING FY/2008 CAPITAL PLAN

Moved and duly seconded:

That the Town accept the Capital Improvement Planning Committee Report for Capital

Needs for FY/2008, funding by the following: Capital Outlay expenditure exclusion of

$875,168.00, which is to be contingent on the ballot question to be placed before the

Town voters, a debt exclusion ove rride $2 ,241 ,668.00 of M.G.L. Chapter 59 Sec. 21 C, and borrow $232,332.00 under M GL Chapter 44 S ec. 7 for the Sewer Enterprise Fund, and borrow $353,332.00 for the Water Enterprise Fund, further to authorize the Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, to borrow $2,827,332.00 under and pursuant to

Massachusetts General Laws, Ch. 44, Sec. 7, or any other enabling authority, and to issue bonds or notes of the Town therefore, and the Town has voted in the affirmative on a ballot question to be placed before the Town voters in accordance with MGL, Ch. 59, Sec.

21C.

252

Item(s) COST Funding Source Police Department

(6) Police Cruisers $234,000 One-time capital exclusion

Mobile Computer Upgrade $51,000 One-time capital exclusion

(60) portable radios $75,000 One-time capital exclusion (3) Police Detective Vehicles $51,000 One-time capital exclusion

TOT AL $411,000

Department o f Public Works Administration (1) mid-size Vehicle $22,000 1/3 one-time capital exclusion (balance funded by 1/3 WEF, 1/3 SEF) Highway Division (2) 34,000 GVW dump truck w/plow $290,000 One-time capital exclusion

& slide-in sander

(1) Sand blast unit, oper. protection $28,500 One-time capital exclusion suit, and air supply system Road Reconstruction $350,000 Borrowing debt exclusion

(1) Street Sweeper $155,000 Borrowing debt exclusion

Construction Division

(1) Loader w/side dump $115,000 1/3 Borrowing debt exclusion (balance funded by1/3 WEF, & 1/3 SEF) (1) Utility Truck, Diesel 4X4 w/2- $40,000 1/3 One-time capital exclusion (balance funded by 1/3 WEF, & 1/3 way radio GVW 15,000 SEF)

(1) Replacement Dozer $100,000 1/3 Borrowing debt exclusion (balance funded by 1/3 WEF, & 1/3 SEF) TOTAL $1,100,500

253 Town Buildings Renovations, Town Buildings $65,000 Borrowing debt exclusion

TOTAL $65,000

School Department

Phase I and II Energy Saving $1,350,000 Borrowing debt exclusion

Window replacement over 2-3 years

at the Quinn School

Education Technology Upgrade $125,000 One-time capital exclusion

TOTAL $1,475,000

Libraries

Southworth Library Heating, Venting $250,000 Borrowing debt exclusion

and Air Conditioning

TOTAL $250,000

254 WATER AND SEWER

ENTERPRISE FUNDS

Water Pollution Control (Sewer

Enterprise Fund)

Rebuild Plant Grit Collection $50,000 Borrowing

Equipment

Add Bio-filter Media to Soil Filter $15,000 Borrowing

(5) new Compost Exhaust blowers $75,000 Borrowing

w/energy efficient motors and drives

TOTAL $140,000

Water Department (Wa ter Enterprise

Fund)

Filter Media replacement 299 Plant $120,000 Borrowing

Upgrade of SCADA system $120,000 Borrowing

½ ton pickup with Cap and Radio $21,000 Borrowing

TOTAL 261,000

GRAND TOTAL OF ITEMS $3,702.500

SEF = Sewer Enterprise Fund, WEF = Water Enterprise Fund, GF = General Fund

Total Borrowing Debt Exclusion $2,241,668 Total One-Time capital Exclusion $875,168 Total Borrowing SEF $232,332 Total Borrowing WEF $353,332

Grand Total $3,702,500

Moved and duly seconded:

Motion to Indefinitely postpone.

Motion FAILS. 12:04 PM

MOVED and seconded:

To Postpone to Fall Annual Town Meeting.

SO VOTED. 12:14 PM

The Annual Town Meeting recessed for lunch at 12:15 PM. The Annual Town Meeting reconvened at 1:30 PM.

256 ARTICLE 13: CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT APPROPRIATIONS

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town will vote to appropriate $220,000 from Excess Bond Proceeds from the following funds:

Article Date Description Amount 9 5/82 Barnet $3,009.56 Boulevard 50 5/95 School $1,930.46 Capital Improvement 34 5/96 Park Phase $8,313.40 (Hawes Land) 43 5/97 Town Forest $1,648.24 Extension 18 6/98 School $4,580.84 Capital Improvement 1 2/98 New High $1,260.87 School 38 11/99 Bakerville $22,561.32 Road Improvement 24 5/00 Town Cap. $147,005.73 Projects – St. Lights 29 5/01 Russells $13,185.61 Mills Road Improvement 21 11/01 Park Phase $16,503.97 III TOTAL $220,000.00

For the following purpose:

School Department: Electrical Circuit Panel Upgrade at the Middle School $ 70,000

Underground fuel tank replacement at the Potter and DeMello Schools $125,000

LIBRARY: Emergency Doors replacement at the

257 Southworth Library $ 25,000

TOTAL $220,000.00

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 1:39 PM

ARTICLE 14: AP PROPRIATION TO CORRECT SEWER SYSTEM INFLOW AND INFILTRATION ISSUES

MOVED and duly seconded:

Th at the Town transf er $100,000 from the Sewer Enterprise Fun d (SEF) Inflow and Infiltration (I & I) Retained Earnings Acc ount to the FY/2008 Inflow and Infiltration Operating Account for correction of inflow and infiltration problems throughout the Town.

UNAN IMOUSLY VOTE D. 1:40 PM

258 ARTICLE 15: FUNDING FOR A COMPREHENSIVE WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $650,000 from the Sewer Enterprise Fund through borrowing for the purposes of preparing a Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan, and any incidental and related cost thereto; and to authorize the Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, to borrow said $650,000 pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 44, Sec. 7, or any other enabling authority, and to issue bonds or notes of the Town therefor, further to authorize the Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, to borrow all or a portion of such amount from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Water Pollution Abatement Trust established pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 29C, and in connection therewith to enter into a loan agreement with the Trust and the Department of Environmental Protection with respect to such loan or any Federal or State Aide available for the project, and to authorize the Board of Public Works to enter in to a project regulatory agreement with the Department of Environmental Protection, to apply for, accept, and expend all funds available for the project.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 4:06 PM

ARTICLE 16: SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING BAYVIEW SEWER PROJECT

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $750,000 from the Sewer Enterprise Fund through available revenues or by borrowing for the payment of unforeseen project expenses incurred in relation to the removal of ledge necessary for the installation of sewer main; and to authorize the Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, to borrow said $750,000 pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 7, or any other enabling authority, and to issue bonds or notes of the Town therefor, or take any action relative thereto; further to authorize the Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, to borrow all or a portion of such amount from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Water Pollution Abatement Trust established pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 29C and in connection therewith to enter into a loan agreement with the Trust and the Department of Environmental Protection with respect to such loan or any federal or state aid available for the project, or take any action relative thereto; and to authorize the Board of Public Works to enter into a project regulatory agreement with the Department of Environmental Protection, to apply for, accept, and expend all funds available for the project.

SO VOTED. YES 246 NO 6 4:22 PM

259

ARTICLE 17. AMENDMENT TO GENERAL BY-LAWS -- DOGS –FEE SCHEDULE

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town amend the Dartmouth General By-Laws by the following:

Amend SECTION 3 Sub-Section 2 FEES:

The License Fee structure shall be the following:

FROM TO (per year) (per Year) Spayed female dogs and neutered $7.00 $12.00 male dogs Unspayed female dogs and $11.00 $20.00 unneutered male dogs

Duplicate tags. $0.50 $1.00 el Licenses

A. Not more than four dogs $17.00 $50.00 B. More than four but not more than $35.00 $65.00 ten dogs C. More than ten dogs but not more $65.00 $100.00 than twenty-five dogs D. More than twenty-five dogs $100.00 $300.00 Boarding Charge: $12.00 per day. 25.00 Per Day

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 4:23 PM

ARTICLE 18: DARTMOUTH GENERAL BY-LAWS – ALARMS – FEE SCHEDULE

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town amend the Dartmouth Gener al By -L aws; PRESENTLY:

SECTION 1. GENERAL BY-LAW REGULATING ALARMS

260 3. Whenever three (3) or more false alarms are caused within a twelve (12) month period (within the fiscal year July 1 - June 30), the owner(s) or person(s) in control of said alarm shall be subject to paying a fine of $25.00 for each and every occurrence starting with the 3rd false alarm, be it a business or residential activation. Starting with the fourth (4th) occurrence and including each and every occurrence up to the ninth (9th) occurrence the fine shall be $50.00 be it a business or residential activation. Starting with the tenth (10th) and subsequent alarm occurrences for the remaining fiscal year the fine shall be $75.00 for each occurrence thereafter. Any fines

imposed and collected under this Section concerning false alarms where a Fire District of the Town has responded to a fire alarm or smoke detection activation determined to be false shall be turned over to the appropriate Fire District after that fine has been remitted to the Town.

AMEND TO:

SECTION 1. GENERAL BY-LAW REGULATING ALARMS

3. Whenever three (3) or more false alarms are caused within a twelve (12) month period (withi n the fiscal year July 1 - June 30), the owner(s) or person(s) in control of said alarm shall be subject to paying a fine of 75.00 for each and every occurrence starting with the 3rd false alarm, be it a business or residential activation. Starting with the fourth (4th) occurrence and including each and every occurrence up to the ninth (9th) occurrence the fine shall be $100.00 be it a business or residential activati on. Starting with the t enth (10th) and subsequent alarm occurrences for the remaining fiscal year the fine shall be $150.00 for each occurrence thereafter. Any fines imposed and collected under this Section concerning false alarms where a Fire District of the Town has responded to a fire alarm or smoke detection activation determined to be false shall be turned over to the appropriate Fire District after that fine has been remitted to the Town.

MOVED and duly seconded:

Motion made to Amend as follows:

Increase from $50.00 to $75.00 Increase from $75.00 to $100.00 Increase from $100 .0 0 to $150.00

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 4:27 PM

Now comes the vote on the main motion.

SO VOTED. 4:20 PM

ARTICLE 19: AMENDMENT TO GENERAL BY-LAWS – PARKING VIOLATIONS –FEE SCHEDULE

261

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town amend the Dartmouth General By-Laws;

DELETE:

SECTION 2. PENALTIES FOR PARKING VIOLATIONS

The following fines for the specified violations of the Town of Dartmouth motor vehicle parking rules and regulations as promulgated by the Select Board shall be paid to the Town Parking Clerk and remitted to the Town Collector.

GROUP A FINE AMOUNT: $20.00

02 Not within marked areas 03 Not parking within six inches of curb 04 Left-Hand side or wrong side of street 05 Illegal angle parking 14 Overtime in a time restricted area 21 Within a service area

GROUP B FINE AMOUNT: $25.00

07 Parking within crosswalk 08 Parking within sidewalk 09 Parking within Taxi Stand 10 Parking within Bus Stop 12 Parking within a loading zone 13 Parking within a no parking zone 15 Parking within 10 feet of a driveway 17 Restricted parking area 11 Parking within 20 feet of an intersection 18 Double Parked 19 Parking less than 10 feet unobstructed lane GROUP C FINE AMOUNT: $50.00

16 Parking within Fire Lane 1 Obstructing passage of Fire apparatus 20 Parking within 10 feet of a hydrant 22 Parking in front of a driveway 23 Impeding snow removal

262 24 Parking within 50 feet of wall of fire station or Directly across from fire station 25 Parking adjacent to any center strip or island within public way 26 Parking within 30 feet of a safety zone

GROUP D FINE AMOUNT: $100.00

27 Obstructing a handicap ramp 28 Parking in a handicap parking zone 29 Parking in striped handicap loading zone GROUP E FINE AMOUNT: $75.00

6 Violation of overnight parking time restrictions

INSERT:

SECTION 2. PEN ALTIES FOR PARKING VIOLATIONS

The following fines for the specified violations of the Town of Dartmouth motor vehicle parking rules and regulations as promulgated by the Select Board, shall be paid to the Town Parking Clerk and remitted to the Town Collector.

GROUP A FINE AMOUNT: $30.00

02 Not within marked areas 03 Not parking within six inches of curb 04 Left-Hand side or wrong side of street 05 Illegal angle parking 14 Overtime in a time restricted area 21 Within a service area

GROUP B FINE AMOUNT: $45.00

263 17 Restricted parking area 11 Parking within 20 feet of an intersection 18 Double Parked 19 Parking less than 10 feet unobstructed lane

GROUP C FINE AMOUNT: $60.00

16 Parking within Fire Lane 1 Obstructing passage of Fire apparatus 20 Parking within 10 feet of a hydrant 22 Parking in front of a driveway 23 Impeding snow removal 24 Parking within 50 feet of wall of fire station or Directly across from fire station 25 Parking adjacent to any center strip or island within public way 26 Parking within 30 feet of a safety zone

GROUP D FINE AMOUNT: $125.00

27 Obstructing a handicap ramp 28 Parking in a handicap parking zone 29 Parking in striped handicap loading zone

GROUP E FINE AMOUNT: $85.00

6 Violation of overnight parking time restrictions

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 4:29 PM

ARTICLE 20: TOWN CLERK FEE SCHEDULE

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town revise the adoption fee schedule for Town Clerk, M.G.L. Chapter 262 Sec. 34 as follows:

FROM TO Certified Copies: Births, Deaths and Marriages $5.00 $10.00 each Recording Certificate of Marriage for persons $5.00 $10.00 married Outside of the Commonwealth of MA

264 Marriage License $25.00 $40.00 Business Certificate $20.00 $40.00 for 4 for 4 yrs yrs.

SO VOTED. YES 251 NO 1 4:30 PM

ARTICLE 21: WEIGHTS AND MEASURES FEE SCHEDULE

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town amend the fees of the Weights and Measures as follows:

Delete Present Schedule:

Device Fees Type Balances & Scales Over 10,000 lbs $150.00 5,000 to 10,000 lbs. $105.00 1,000 to 5,000 lbs. $ 75.00 100 to 1,000 lbs. $ 60.00 100 lbs. $ 35.00 10 or less $ 35.00 Weights Avoirdupois $1.00 each Metric $1.00 each Apothecary $1.00 each Troy $1.00 each Liquid Measuring Meters Gasoline $ 20.00 Vehicle Tank Pump $ 60.00 Bulk Storage $100.00 Other Devices Fabric Measuring $ 8.00 Reverse Vending $ 20.00 Weights 1 –3 $ 75.00 Register/Terminal’s

265 4 – 11 $150.00 Register/Terminal’s 12 or more $250.00

Insert New Schedule:

DEVICE FEE

Over 10,000 lbs. 175.00 S 5,000 to 10,000 lbs. 150.00 1,000 to 5,000 lbs. 100.00 100 to 1,000 lbs. 75.00 & SCALES

BALANCE 100 lbs. 50.00 10 or less 50.00 Avoirdupois (Each) 5.00 Metric “ 5.00

S Apothecary “ 5.00

WEIGHT Troy “ 5.00

Vehicle Tanks

Each Indicator 30.00 Each 100 Gals. Or 20.00 Fraction Thereof 20.00 Liquid CAPACITY MEASURES 1 Gallon or less 20.00 More than 1 gallon 20.00

Inlet ½ “ or le ss Oil, Grease 25.00 Inlet more than ½ “ to 1" Gasoline 40.00 Inlet more than 1 “

LIQUID Vehicle Tank Pump 60.00 METERS

MEASURING Vehicle Tank Gravity 75.00 Bulk Storage 100.00 Company Supplies Prover 60.00

Taxi Meters 40.00 Odometer 30.00 Leather Meas. 30.00 Fabric Measuring 30.00

OTHER DEVICES Wire-Rope-Cordage 30.00 Reverse Vending 30.00

Yard Sticks 5.00 Tapes 5.00 LINEAR MEAS. 1 - 3 Register/Terminal's 100.00

OUT AUTO RETAIL CHECK- 266 4 - 11 Register/Terminal's 200.00 12 or more 300.00

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 4:31 PM

ARTICLE 22: POLICE PROMOTIONAL EXAMINATIONS

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town p etition the General Court for a Special Act relative to Police Promoti onal Examinations, as follows:

AN ACT RELATIVE TO THE TOWN OF DARTMOUTH POLICE DEPARTMENT PROMOTIONAL EXAMINATIONS.

Notwithstandin g G.L. Chapter 31 and other statutes and Special Acts to the contrary, the appointment a uthority of the Town of Dartmouth Police Department may make a police promotional appointment within a departmental unit on the basis of a police departmental promotional examination.

1. F or promotion to title of Sergeant: There shall be no such promotiona l examination until there are at least two (2) employees who have been employed in the Dartmouth Police Department for at least (3) three years of fulltim e permanent employment immediately preceding the date of the examination as a civil service employee in a title equal to that of which the position for which the examination is to be held or the next lower titles, as determined by the administrator, as a police officer, but excluding from the calculation of employment absences greater than thirty (30) continuous calendar days, including but not limited to such absences arising out of or related to injury on duty, extended sick leave, administrative leave, or any continuous combination thereof, not to be included in such absence any active duty status in the United States Military.

2. For promotion to any title above Sergeant: The examination shall only be open to employees who have been employed by the Dartmouth Police Department for at least (5) five years of fulltime permanent employment immediately preceding the date of the examination as a civil service employee in a title equal to that of which the position for which the examination is to be held or the next lower titles, as determined by the administrator, including service in an acting capacity in the title being examined or higher title, but excluding from the calculation of employment absences greater than thirty (30) continuous calendar days, including but not limited to such absences arising out of or related to injury on duty, extended sick leave, administrative leave, or any continuous combination thereof, not to be included in such absence any active duty status in the United Sta tes Military. Except that if the number of applicants eligible is less than two (2), the examination shall be opened to permanent employees in the next lower titles in

267 succession in such force until either two (2) such eligible employees have applied for examination or until the examination is open to all permanent e mployees in lower titles in such force.

This Act shall be in effect upon enactment.

MOVED and duly seconded:

Motion made to amend by adding the following language:

Not to be included in such absence any active duty status in the United States Military.

SO VOTED. 4:30 PM

Now comes the vote on the main motion.

SO VOTED. YES 251 NO 1 4:41 PM

ARTICLE 23: PETITION FOR SPECIAL ENABLING LEGISLATION TO THE GREAT AND GENERAL COURT OF THE COMMONWEALTH

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town petition the Great and General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for the following:

AN ACT EXEMPTING THE POSITION OF DEPUTY CHIEF OF POLICE IN THE TOWN OF DARTMOUTH FROM THE PROVISIONS OF CIVIL SERVICE LAW

Section 1. The position of Deputy Chief of Police of the Dartmouth Police Department shall be exempt from the provisions of Chapter thirty-one of the Massachusetts General Laws.

Section 2. This Act shall take effect upon its passage.

SO VOTED. YES 248 NO 4 4:42 PM

ARTICLE 24: ACCEPTANCE OF REPORT OF THE DARTMOUTH SCHOOL BUILDING AND RENOVATION STUDY COMMITTEE

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town accept a status report of the work of the Dartmouth School Building and Renovation Study Committee as to their work to date.

268

UNANIMOUSLY. 4:46 PM

ARTICLE 25: STREET ACCEPTANCE – LUCY LITTLE ROAD

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town accept the layout of a portion of Lucy Little Road. All as detailed on a plan, entitled “Layout of Lucy Little Road” in Dartmouth, Massachusetts, dated May 3, 2007 by Boucher and Heureux, Inc., and recorded in the Bristol County Registry of Deeds (S.D.) in Plan Book 161 Page 13.

MOVED and duly seconded:

Motion made to amend by deleting “ from Old Westport Road to Chase Road.

SO VOTED. 4:53 PM

Now comes the vote on the main motion.

SO VOTED. YES 249 NO 3 4:57 PM

ARTICLE 26: STREET ACCEPTANCE – CHRISTINE DRIVE

MOVED and duly seconded:

To see if the Town will vote to accept as a public way the layout of Christine Drive, as shown on a plan on file with the Select Board entitled “Street Acceptance Plan, Christine Drive, Dartmouth, Massachusetts” dated December 14, 2006, Scale 1” = 40’, prepared by Kenneth R. Ferreira Engineering, Inc. (the “Plan”), including in said layout the portion of the land labeled on Drawing No.2 of the Plan as “Pedestrian Access Right of Way See Special Permit Dated December 10, 1997 Recorded in Book 4199, Page 283” but in no way removing or otherwise altering any limitations or restrictions currently affecting said Pedestrian Access Right of Way, and excepting from said layout Open Space Parcels “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” on said Plan; and further to authorize the Town to acquire said land which is laid out by gift, pur chase or b y e m inent domain.

SO VOTED. YES 251 NO 1 5:00 PM

ARTICLE 27: DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS WATER DIVISION LAND ACQUISITION

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $72,500 from the Water Enterprise Retained Earnings for the purpose of acquiring by purchase, approximately 30.44 acres of land owned by the

269 Town of Dartmouth, for the purpose of protecting town drinking water supply around the new Panelli Wells, sai d land is d e scr ibed by th e Dartmouth Assessors as Map 52, Lot 7, and Map 48, Lot 35.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 5:06 PM

ARTICLE 28: SEWER EASEMENT TUCKER ROAD TO ALLEN STREET

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town accept by gift, purchase or eminent domain, the sewer easements, as shown on a plan entitled “Approval Not Required Plan of Land in Dartmouth, MA drawn for Tucker Lane Properties, LLC” and dated March 3, 2006, prepared by Boucher & Heureux, Inc., and dated March 3, 2006 on file at the Department of Public Works, and recorded at the Bristol County Registry of Deeds (S.D.) in Plan Book 158 Page 27.

SO VOTED. YES 251 NO 1 5:07 PM

ARTICLE 29: ACCEPTANCE OF RIGHT OF WAY EASEMENTS AND LAND TAKINGS

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain, the easements and land, all as described on the Parcel Summary, on a plan on file at the Office of the Department of Public Works entitled “Dartmouth Gulf Road Over Apponagansett River, Right-of- Way Plan” prepared for the MassHighway Department (MHD), Project File number 602473.

MOVED and duly seconded:

Motion to Delete the following language:

That the Town submit to MassHighway the findings of the National Oceangraphic and Atmospheric Administration as to tidal flooding and restriction improvements.

SO VOTED. 5:25 PM

Now comes the vote on the main motion

SO VOTED. YES 244 NO 8 5:25 PM

Sense of the meeting motion.

270 A Vote of the Dartmouth Town Meeting that MassHighway consider the findings of NOA and other state agencies including Federal Review Authorities on the issue of the Title Restrictions as proposed in their design and address these environmental concerns.

SO VOTED. YES 250 NO 1 5:26 PM

ARTICLE 30: ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT – RESIDENTIAL SIZE, LAND BASE WIND ENERGY CONVERSION FACILITIES

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town amend the Dartmouth Zoning By-Laws by adding the following:

INSERT NEW SECTION:

SECTION 33 - RESIDENTIAL WIND TURBINE BY-LAW

33.100 PURPO SE A ND INT ENT

This by la w is intende d to encourage the appropriate development of wind resources by residents of the Town of Dartmouth in a manner consistent with preserving the environmental quality of the Town. It is designed to establish the public processes needed to identify preferred locations for wind turbines and other devices that convert wind energy to electricity, and create a clear regulatory path that will address specifically wind turbine deployment.

This bylaw pertains to residential-size facilities, i.e., turbines with a rated power of less than or equal to 10 kilowatts. Section 33 also governs the installation of wind monitoring or meteorological towers.

Although Dartmouth has been the site of wind machines in its past, typically those were used for water-pumping for agriculture and in salt works. The types of machines now being contemplated and proposed differ from those historic devices in purpose, size, technology, cost and potential environmental impact.

Whereas the existing Town bylaws and the permitting processes do not specifically prohibi t wind turbi nes, the lack of appropriate regulations to govern today’s modern wind machines creates uncertainty for those wishing to deploy wind turbines and leads to ad hoc decisions. As renewable energy technology develops, particularly wind power, we see a rapidly changing field as more and more individuals give serious consideration to wind turbines as a means of supplying some or all of their electricity requirements. This growth exacerbates the disconnect between the existing bylaws in the Town and the current state of the art.

271 It is therefore the intent of this bylaw to provide the Town of Dartmouth with a set of rules to understand the land use issues regarding wind power and to enable the Town and its residents to plan for the installation of modern wind electrical generating equipment. It is the express purpose of this bylaw to accommodate distributed generation, residential-size wind en e rgy conversion facilities in appropriate locations, while minimizing any adverse visual, safety or environmental impacts of the facilitie s. F u rthermor e, this bylaw is intended to provide for a permitting process to be followed by anyone wishing to install a residential-size wind turbine.

The bylaw enables the review and approval of proposals for wind energy conversion facilities by the Town’s Special Permit Granting Authority within the framework of the Town’s existing bylaws. This bylaw is intended to be used in conjunction with Massachusetts state regulations and other regulations adopted or enacted by the Town and its departments, boards, and committees, including but not limited to historic district regulations, site plan review, and other local bylaws designed to encourage appropriate land use, environmental protection, and provision of adequate infrastructure development in Dartmouth.

33.200 DEFINITIONS

Clear Area: Area surrounding a wind turbine to be kept free of residences or places of business as determined by the Special Permit Granting Authority. See Section 33.303.B.2.

Commercial-size WECF: A wind energy conversion facility (WECF) having a rated electrical power output greater than 10 kilowatts. (Not covered by this bylaw.)

Distributed Generation: Energy generation that is located at or near the end-user.

HAWT: Horizontal-axis wind turbine.

Height: The height of a HAWT measured from the natural grade at the base of the tower to the tip of a blade at its highest point, or the maximum height of a vertical- axis wind turbine (VAWT).

Hub Height: The height of a HAWT measured vertically from the natural grade at the base of the tower to the centerline of the rotor.

Nacelle: The frame and housing at the top of a HAWT tower that encloses the gearbox, generator, and other accessories, and protects them from the weather.

Residential-size WECF: A wind energy conversion facility (WECF) having a rated electrical power output equal to or less than 10 kilowatts.

Rotor: The blades and hub of the wind turbine that rotate during turbine operation.

272 Special Permit Granting Authority (SPGA): The Special Permit Granting Authority (SPGA) for the Town of Dartmouth shall be the Select Board of the Town and shall have the authority to issue Special Permits for wind energy conversion facilities.

Technical Research Group (TRG): The group designated in Section 33.801 of this bylaw with the authority to review applications for Special Permits for wind energy conversion facilities and to make recommendations on such applications to the SPGA.

Tower: The structure that supports the turbine, rotor, generator, and accessory equipment. The tower may be a monopole or lattice design, with or without guy wires depending on the height and other factors.

VAWT: Vertical-axis wind turbine; sometimes called a Darrieus-type wind turbine.

WECF-Setback: The distance measured at grade from the center of the base of the tower to the nearest property line.

Wind energy conversion facility (WECF): All equipment, machinery and structures used in connection with the conversion of wind energy to electricity. This includes, but is not limited to, all transmission, storage, collection and supply equipment, substations, network of cabling, transformers, site-access and service roads, and machinery associated with its use. A wind energy conversion facility may consist of one or more wind turbines.

Wind monitoring or meteorological (MET) tower: Tower used for supporting anemometers, wind vanes and other equipment to assess the wind resource at set heights above the ground.

Wind turbine: Any electromechanical device that converts kinetic energy of the wind into rotational energy to turn an electrical generator shaft. Wind turbine facilities usually consist of a horizontal-axis rotor, nacelle and supporting tower (HAWTs). Both HAWTs and vertical-axis wind machines (VAWTs) of residential size are covered by this bylaw.

33.300 DISTRICT REGULATIONS

33.301 Use Regulations

All WECF's shall require a Special Permit from the Special Permit Granting

Authority, defined as the Select Board. Subsequently, a building permit shall

be required for all WECF's in accordance with the Special Permit and the

standards of this bylaw. Wind monitoring towers shall require a building

273 permit.

A. Residential-size WECF

The construction of any residential-size WECF shall be allowed in all

zoning districts of the Town, subject to the issuance of a Special Permit

by the SPGA, and provided the proposed use complies with all

Dimensional and Special Permit Regulations set forth under Sections

33.300 and 33.400 of this bylaw (unless waived by the SPGA).

B. Wind Monitoring or Meteorological Towers

Wind monitoring or meteorological towers shall be allowed in all zoning

districts of the Town subject to issuance of a building permit for a

temporary structure. No electrical or telephone wires, except those

underground, can be closer to the tower than a distance equaling 1.5

times the height of the tower.

33.302 Site Control

The applicant shall submit documentation of the legal right to install and use

the proposed facility at the time of application for a Special Permit.

Documentation should also include proof of control over the clear areas, if

required under Section 33.303B. “Control” shall mean the legal authority to

prevent the use of any structure within the clear area for a residence or place

274 of business.

33.303 Dimensional Requirements

All WECFs shall comply with the requirements set forth in this section,

unless those requirements are explicitly waived by the SPGA as part of the

Special Permit review process.

A. Height

The height of any residential-size WECF shall be constrained by (i) the WECF- setback requirement as described in Section 33.303.B.2. which must accommodate the dimensions of the applicant’s property, and (ii) the clear area requirement, as stated in Section 33.303.B, if applicable. The SPGA may allow this height to be exceeded as part of the Special Permit process if the project applicant can demonstrate that the additional height is needed and that the additional benefits of the higher tower outweigh any increased adverse impacts. However, in no case shall the total height of the WECF exceed 165 ft (50 m).

B. WECF-Setback and Clear Area

1.Each WECF and its associated equipment shall comply with the building setback provisions of the zoning district in which the facility is located.

275 2.In order to ensure public safety and to protect the interests of neighboring property owners, a setback shall be required from the nearest property line to the center of the base of the tower equal to the total height of the WECF. This is the WECF-setback requirement.

3.In the case of a residential-size WECF intended for a non- residential site, the applicant shall be required to maintain a clear area free of all structures containing residences or places of business as determined by the Special Permit Granting Authority. The clear area shall comprise the area of a circle centered on the center of the tower and having a radius equal to the total height of the WECF. This is the clear area requirement. The SPGA may reduce the clear area requirement at its discretion, based on site- specific considerations, if the project is otherwise consistent with the Special Permit Granting Regulations.

33.400 SPECIAL PERMIT GRANTING REGULATIONS

The SPGA shall grant a Special Permit for a residential WECF only if it finds that the proposal complies with the provisions of this bylaw or has explicitly been granted waivers from those provisions.

33.401 General

Proposed WECFs shall be consistent with all applicable Town, state and federal requirements, including, but not limited to, all applicable electrical, construction, noise, safety, environmental and communications requirements.

33.402 Visual Impact

The applicant shall minimize any impact on the visual character of surrounding neighborhoods and the community by painting the WECF a non- r e f le ctive color that blends with the surroundings.

33.403 Equipment Shelters

276 All equipment necessary for monitoring and operation of the WECF should be secured within the wind turbine tower or base. If this is infeasible, ancillary equipment may be located outside the tower or base, provided such equipment is either contained within an underground vault, enclosed within a separate structure, or hidden behind a year-round landscape or vegetated buffer.

33.404 Light ing and Signage

Unless required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), wind turbines shall not be lighted on a continuous basis. The WECF shall be free of all company logos, advertising, and similar promotional markings. Signs on the facility shall be limited to those needed to warn of any danger; and educational signs providing information on the technology. All signs shall comply with the requirements of the Town’s sign regulations.

33.405 Noise

The WECF shall conform to Massachusetts noise regulations (310 CMR 7.10).

33.500 MODIFICATIONS

All modifications to a WECF made after issuance of the Special Permit shall require approval by the SPGA.

33.600 MAINTENANCE

33.601 Maintenance Requirement

The applicant shall maintain the WECF in good condition. Such maintenance shall include, but not be limited to, painting, maintaining the structural integrity of the foundation, support structure and security barrier (if applicable), and maintenance of the buffer areas and landscaping, if present.

33.602 Penalties

Failure to comply with the requirements in Section 33.601 shall result in the assessment of fines or other sanctions as specified in Dartmouth Bylaw 27.400.

33.700 TERM OF SPECIAL PERMIT FOR A RESIDENTIAL WECF

A Special Permit issued for the construction or operation of any WECF shall be valid for twenty (20) years, unless extended or renewed. Upon request, the SPGA may

277 extend the time period or renew the Special Permit, if there has been satisfactory operation of the facility.

Any Special Permit issued under this Bylaw shall lapse within one (1) year from the grant thereof if construction has not sooner commenced except for good cause. In such a case, a new application process must be undertaken before the WECF can proceed.

U pon expiration or termination of the Special Permit, the WECF shall be removed by the applicant.

33.800 APPLICATION PROCEDURES

33.801 Technical Research Group (TRG)

The SPGA shall designate a Technical Research Group (TRG) composed of five (5) members: (1) a Town Engineer (DPW), (2) a member of the Town Planning Board, (3) a member of the Town Zoning Board of Appeals, (4) a member of the Town Alternative Energy Committee, and (5) a member-at- large. In the case of members (2), (3) and (4), each individual shall be appointed by his or her respective Board or Committee. The member-at- large shall be appointed by the Town Select Board. The members shall serve staggered three-year terms and may be reappointed.

33.802 Pre-Application Conference

Prior to the submission of an application for a Special Permit under this regulation, the applicant is strongly encouraged to meet with the TRG at a public meeting to discuss the proposed WECF in general terms and to clarify the filing requirements. The TRG shall meet with an applicant under this provision within twenty-one (21) days following a written request for pre-application conference submitted to the SPGA and the Town Clerk. If the TRG fails to hold the pre-application conference within 21 days of the request and said conference has not been postponed due to mutual agreement, the applicant may proceed with a Special Permit application under this Bylaw without need for a pre-application conference.

33.803 Pre-Application Filing Requirements

The purpose of the pre-application conference is to inform the TRG as to the general nature of the proposed WECF. As such, no formal filings are required to be presented at the pre-application conference. However, the applicant is encouraged to prepare sufficient preliminary drawings or to present manufacturer’s drawings and specifications to inform the TRG of the location and overall design of the proposed facility, as well as its scale, noise levels, and proximity to abutting residential structures.

278

33.804 Professional Fees

The Town may retain a technical expert/consultant, pursuant to Mass. G.L. c. 44, s. 53G, to verify information presented by the applicant during the pre-application conference. The cost for such a technical expert/consultant, if needed, will be at the expense of the applicant.

33.805 Application Filing Requirements

The following shall be included with an application for a Special Permit for each WECF:

A. Name, address, telephone number, and original signature (photo- reproductions of signatures will not be accepted) of applicant and any co-applicants. Co-applicants may include the landowner of the subject property or the operator of the WECF.

B. If the applicant or co-applicant will be represented by an agent, the name, address and telephone number of the agent shall be provided as well as an original signature authorizing the agent to represent the applicant and/or co-applicant. Photo-reproductions of signatures will not be accepted.

C. Documentation of the legal right to install and use the proposed WECF and proof of control over the clear area, as required by Sections 33.302 and 33.303.B of this Bylaw. A copy of the recorded deed to the property shall be sufficient for this purpose.

D. If the property is to be leased or subject to an easement, the applicant shall provide a copy of the lease or easement instrument.

E. Identification of the subject property by including the name of the nearest road or roads, and street address, if any;

F. Assessors map and parcel number of subject property;

G. Zoning district designation for the subject parcel with a separately submitted locus map;

H. Residential applicants shall submit a line map, drawn to scale, showing the lot lines of the subject property. All non-residential applicants shall submit a line map, drawn to scale, showing all properties within 200 feet of the property lines as well as the location of all buildings, including accessory structures, on all properties shown.

279 I. A one-inch-equals-40-feet vicinity plan, signed and sealed by a Professional Land Surveyor showing the following:

1. Property lines for the subject property (for residential applicants), and all properties adjacent to the subject property within 200 feet (for non-residential applicants).

2. Proposed location of WECF, including all turbines, fencing, associated ground equipment, transmission infrastructure and access roads.

3. For non-residential applicants, the outline of all existing buildings, including their purpose(s) (e.g., residential buildings, garages, accessory structures, etc.) on the subject property and all adjacent properties within 200 feet, and the distances, at grade, from the proposed WECF to each building on the vicinity plan shall be shown.

J. Specifications for the proposed WECF shall be provided for all equipment and attendant facilities.

K. Materials of the proposed WECF shall be specified by type and specific treatment. This information shall be provided for the wind turbine tower and all other proposed equipment/facilities.

L. Colors of the proposed WECF shall be represented by a color board showing actual colors proposed.

M. A noise performance guarantee from the WECF manufacturer shall be sufficient to demonstrate compliance with the noise standards of Massachusetts noise regulations (310 CMR 7.10) and consistency with Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection guidance for noise measurement.

N. To ensure safe operation of the WECF, the applicant shall provide a statement from the wind turbine manufacturer giving the recommended maintenance procedures and schedule, and a declaration by the applicant to follow said schedule.

O. The SPGA may require additional information and data from the applicant.

280

33.806 Adjudication of Special Permit Applications

The TRG shall make a formal recommendation to the SPGA regarding each application for a Special Permit for a WECF. A positive recommendation from the TRG shall require four (4) affirmative votes of the TRG. All matters before the TRG shall be decided by four (4) votes.

An application for a Special Permit for a WECF to the SPGA shall require four (4) affirmative votes of the SPGA for approval. All matters before the SPGA shall be decided by four (4) votes.

33.900 CHANGE OF OWNER

Once a Special Permit for a residential WECF has been approved, the applicant shall duly record a copy of the Special Permit with the Bristol County Registry of Deeds. All subsequen t deeds to the property shall refer to the Special Permit and incorporate it by reference. All conditions under which the Special Permit was originally granted shall be binding on all successive owners of the property.

33.1000 SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS

The provisions of this Bylaw are severable. If any provision of this Bylaw is held invalid, the other provisions shall not be affected thereby. If the application of this Bylaw or any of its provisions to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the application of this Bylaw and its provisions to other persons and circumstances shall not be affected thereby.

SO VOTED. YES 247 NO 5 5:35 PM

ARTICLE 31: TUCKER ROAD SEWER EXTENSION

Moved and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $87,070 by borrowing for the purpose of constructing a sanitary sewer from a point north of Fairway Drive south, including costs incidental and related thereto, including engineering design and administration of the project; that to raise said appropriation, the Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board, be authorized to borrow $87,070 under and pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 44 Sec. 7(1) or any other enabling authority, and to issue bonds or notes of the Town therefor; and that betterments pursuant to the provisions of

281

Massachusetts State Statutes, shall be assessed to the abutters of the project in accordance with the Law.

MOVED and duly seconded:

To WITHDRAW.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 5:35 PM

ARTICLE 32: COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT – HISTORIC BUILDING INVENTORY

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate monies from the FY/2008 Community Preservation Fund Annual Revenues in the amount of $42,600 to the Dartmouth Historic Commission to update the Town’s Inventory of historic buildings built before 1851 in accordance with the standards set by the Massachusetts Historical Commission.

SO VOTED. 5:54 PM

ARTICLE 33: COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT – LAND ACQUISITION

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate monies from the FY/20 08 Community Preservation Fund Annual Revenues in the amount of $150,000 to the Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust for the acquisition of an undeveloped property consisting of approximately 52 acres off Collins Corner Road to be preserved as open space and included as part of the Dartmouth Natural Resource Trust Ridge Hill Reserve.

SO VOTED. 5:55 PM

ARTICLE 34: COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT – RECREATION MASTER PLAN

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate monies from the FY/2008 Community Preservation Fund Annual Revenues in the amount of $40,000 to the Dartmouth Recreation Association to engage the necessary professional services to assess the Town’s recreational needs and

282 resources as permitted by M.G.L. Chapter 44B, to develop a master recreational growth plan, and to conduct a preliminary feasibility study that will address the Town’s unmet recreational needs.

SO VOTED. 6:04 PM

ARTICLE 35: SERVICES CONTRACT FOR APPONAGANSETT PARK CONCESSION

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town authorize the Dartmouth Park Commission to enter into a long term services contract in conformity with an open and competitive bid process pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 30B, and with the bid specifications as drawn, for the operation of the Apponagansett Park Concession Stand, located in Dartmouth at 77 Gulf Road and consisting of 620 square feet, more or less, and shown on Dartmouth Assessor’s Map 111 as Lot 11, for an initial contract term of ten (10) years, with an option to renew for one additional term of ten years.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 6:08 PM

ARTICLE 36: GENERAL BY-LAW AMENDMENT ENFORCEMENT OF RED LIGHT RUNNING VIOLATION – VIOLATIONS-NON- CRIMINAL, SECTION 9

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town amend the Dartmouth General By-Laws to include the following as a Non-Criminal Violation as follows:

Section 9. Non-Criminal Disposition – Automated Red Light Violations

Notwithstanding any other provision of the Dartmouth General By-Laws to the contrary and c onsistent wi th M.G.L. Chapter 40 Sec. 21D and M.G.L. Chapter 90C, the Town of Dartmouth hereby adopts a civil enforcement system for automated red light camera system violations as outlined in this section. Said system imposes monetary liability on the owner of a vehicle for failure of an operator thereof to comply with traffic control indications in the Town of Dartmouth in accordance with the provisions of this Section. Unless otherwise stated, the provisions set forth in Dartmouth General By-Law, Section 1. Violations (Non-Criminal) are applicable to this Section.

As used herein, the term, “Automated Red Light System”, is the equivalent of

283 “Traffic Control Signal Monitoring Device” or Traffic Control Photographic System.” Said system/device is an electronic system consisting of a photographic, video or electronic camera and a vehicle sensor installed to work in conjunction with an official traffic controller and to automatically produce photographs, video or digital images of each vehicle violating a standard traffic control.

The Dartmouth Police Department shall be responsible for administering the Automated Red Light System. Specifically, the Dartmouth Police Department shall be empowered to install and operate red light camera systems within the Town of Dartmouth. The Dartmouth Police Department shall maintain a list of system locations where red light camera systems are installed. The Dartmouth Police Department will make the determination as to which intersection locations will be utilized.

Any citation for an automated red light system violation pursuant to this Section known as a “Notice of Liability” shall:

(a) Be processed by a sworn Police Officer authorized to issue citations for violation of traffic signals;

(b) Be forwarded by first-class mail or personal service to the vehicle’s registered owner’s address as given on the State’s motor vehicle registration;

(c) State the violation alleged, the location of the intersection where the violation occurred and the date and time of the alleged violation;

(d) State the amount of the civil penalty to be imposed for the violation and the date by which the civil penalty must be paid; and

(e) Inform the person named in the Notice of Liability of the person’s right to contest the imposition of the civil penalty and the manner and time in which the imposition of the civil penalty may be contested.

It is prima facie evidence that the person registered as the owner of the vehicle with the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (or with any other State vehicle registration office) was operating the vehicle at the time of the offense set out in the Notice of Liability.

Notwithstanding the above, the owner of the vehicle shall not be responsible for the violation if, within twenty-one (21) days from the date listed on the “Notice of Liability”, he or she furnishes the district court judge, clerk or assistant clerk, as the court shall direct, with an official record from a law enforcement agency and/or record bureau stating that the vehicle involved was reported as stolen before the time of the violation. In that event, the district court judge, clerk or assistant clerk shall find that the violation did not occur or was not committed by the person notified. That finding shall be entered on the docket and operate as a final disposition of the

284 case.

Any person cited for a violation of this Section who otherwise desires to contest the violation alleged in the “Notice of Liability” may do so within twenty-one (21) days from the date listed on the “Notice of Liability” consistent with the provisions set forth in Dartmouth General By-Law, Section 1. Violations (Non-Criminal).

Any violation of this Section shall be deemed a non-criminal violation for which a civil penalty of $100.00 shall be assessed and for which no points authorized by M.G.L. (“Point system for license suspension”) shall be assigned to the owner or driver of the vehicle, nor shall such imposition of a penalty be subject to a merit rating for insurance purposes and no surcharge points shall be imposed in the provision of a motor vehicle insurance coverage.

Failure to request a hearing to contest the violation or to otherwise pay the civil penalty within twenty-one (21) days from the date listed on the “Notice of Liability” shall constitute a waiver of the right to contest the violation and will be considered an admission. Said failure shall result in an additional penalty of $50.00 for a total penalty of $150.00. A decision in favor of the Town of Dartmouth may be enforced by means of a civil action.

The Town of Dartmouth, via its Police Department and Town Counsel, may establish procedures for the collection of the civil penalties imposed herein, and may enforce the penalties by a civil action in the nature of a debt. If the penalties imposed pursuant to this Section remain unpaid for more than thirty (30) days after the date on which the “Notice of Liability” was issued, the penalties shall be collected, together with any interest and penalties thereon, by civil suit or other appropriate means of collection.

An imposition of liability under the Section shall not be deemed a conviction as an operator and shall not be made part of the operating record upon whom such liability is imposed.

Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the liability of an operator of a vehicle for any criminal automobile violation.

This Section shall not apply to violations involving vehicle collisions.

Any penalties imposed under this Section shall enure to the Town for use as the Town may direct.

SO VOTED. 6:24 PM

ARTICLE 37: AMENDMENT TO TOWN CHARTER – DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS, SECTION 4-5(C)

285 MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town amend Section 4 – 5 (c) of the Town of Dartmouth Charter as follows:

SECTION 4-5 (C): DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

DELETE:

(c) Superintendent of Public Works - The board of public works shall appoint, for a term of not more than three years, and fix the compensation of a superintendent of public works who shall exercise and perform, under its supervision and direction, such of the powers, rights and duties assigned to it under sub-section (b), above, as it may from time to time designate. The superintendent of public works shall be specially fitted by education, training and experience to perform the duties of the office. The superintendent of public works shall be responsible for the efficient exercise and performance of such powers, rights and duties. The superintendent of public works may be removed for just cause only and by a vote of at least two members of the board of public works. The superintendent of public works shall be given a written notice at least fourteen days prior to the date of removal, which shall specify the reasons for such removal. A public hearing shall be held on the charges brought against the superintendent of public works if such officer specifically requests such hearing be held. The superintendent of public works shall hold no other elective or appointive office not engage in any other business, occupation or profession while serving in such office. The superintendent of public works shall give to the town a bond with a surety company authorized to transact business in the commonwealth as surety, for the faithful performance of the duties of the office in such sum and upon such conditions as the board of public works may require, and shall, subject to the approval of the board of public works appoint such assistants, agents and employees as the exercise and performance of the powers, rights and duties may require. The superintendent of public works shall render to the board of public works, as often as it may require, a full report of all operations under the control of the superintendent of public works during the period reported upon, and annually, and from time to time as required by the board of public works, shall make a synopsis of such reports for publication and shall keep the board of public works fully advised as to the needs of the town within the scope of its duties, and shall annually, not less than sixty days prior to the expiration of the calendar year, furnish to the board of public works a carefully prepared and detailed estimate in writing of the appropriations required during the next succeeding fiscal year for the proper exercise and performance of all said rights and duties.

INSERT:

(c) Director of Public Works – The board of public works Shall appoint, for a term of not more than three years, and fix the compensation of a director of public works who shall exercise and perform, under its supervision and direction, such of the powers, rights and duties assigned to it under sub -section (b), above, as it may from time to time designate. The director of public works shall be specially fitted by education, training and experience to perform the duties of the office. The director of public works shall hold no elective office nor engage in any other business, occupation or profession while serving in such office. The director of public works may be removed for just cause only and by

286 a vote of at least two members of the board of public works. The director of public works shall render to the board of public works, as often as it may require, a full report of all operations under the control of the director of public works during the period reported upon, and annually, and from time to time as required by the board of public works, shall make a synopsis of such reports for publication and shall keep the board of public works fully advised as to the needs of the town within the scope of its duties, and shall annually, before the expiration of the calendar year, furnish to the board of public works a carefully prepared and detailed estimate in writing of the appropriations required during the next succeeding fiscal year for the proper exercise and performance of all said rights and duties.

SO VOTED. YES 250 NO 2 6:34 PM

ARTICLE 38: STABILIZATION FUND

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town will vote to appropriate $184,000 from the Tax Levy to the Stabilization Fund.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 6:36 PM

MOVED and duly seconded.

To dissolve Spring Annual Town Meeting.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 6:37 PM

ARTICLE 1STM: LINE ITEM TRANSFERS/SUPPLEMENT TO SCHEDULE A – FY/2007

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town amend the appropriations and various funding sources as voted at the June 6, 2006 Spring Annual Town Meeting under Article 19, Schedule A Town Charges, by transferring between line items within the various categories and budgets, as voted, and further authorize the Town Accountant to make the necessary changes and disbursements to effectuate said changes.

FROM: AMOUNT TO: AMOUNT Police Dispatcher Salaries $46,731.00 Police Salaries $46,731.00 Library-Prof. Salaries $20,000.00 Library Clerical $20,000.00 Salaries Library Custodial Salaries $13,000.00 Library Substitues $13,000.00 Group Insurance $50,000.00 Reserve Fund $50,000.00

287 Principal-Long Term Debt $15,975.00 Principal-Long Term $15,975.00 Exclusion Debt Principal-Long Term Debt $55,564.32 Interest-Long Term $55,564.32 Debt Principal-Long Term Debt $44,435.00 Interest-Long Term $44,435.00 Exclusion Debt

SO VOTED. YES 251 NO 1 10:16 AM

ARTICLE 2 STM: AUTHORIZATION FOR APPROPRIATION –

WATERWAYS

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town transfer $41,000 from Receipts Reserved for Appropriation – Municipal Waterways Boat Excise Tax to the Waterways Management Enterprise Fund.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 10:20 AM

ARTICLE 3 STM: SENIOR SOCIAL DAY PROGRAM

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $3,579.00 from Senior Social Day Trust Fund to supplement the FY/2007 Dartmouth Senior Social Day Program.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 10:21 AM

ARTICLE 4 STM: WATERWAYS ENTERPRISE FUND – RETAINED EARNINGS

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $1,903.31 from the Waterways Enterprise Fund Retained Earnings to supplement the FY/2007 Waterways Enterprise Operating Budget.

SO VOTED. 10:22 AM

ARTICLE 5 STM: SE WER ENTERPRISE FUND – RETAINED EARNINGS

MOVED and duly seconded:

288

That the Town appropriate $50,000 from the Sewer Enterprise Fund Retained Earnings to supplement the FY/2007 Sewer Enterprise Ope rating Budget.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 10:23 AM

ARTICLE 6 STM: COMMUNITY PRESERVATION ACT

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate from Community Preservation Unreserved Fund Balance $38,669.45 for the payment of debt service and other related costs for FY/2007 fiscal year.

$18,725.00 Long term Debt-Interest $19,944.45 Interest on Short term Debt $ 0.00 Borrowing Cost $38,669.45 Total

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 10:24 AM

ARTICLE 7. STM: WATER ENTERPRISE FUND – RETAINED EARNINGS

Moved and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate a sum of money from the Water Enterprise Fund Retained Earnings to supplement the FY/2007 Water Enterprise Operating Budget.

MOVED and duly seconded:

To WITHDRAW.

UNANIMOUSLY VOTED. 10:24 AM

ARTICLE 8STM: APPROPRIATION FOR FUNDING OF COLLECTIVE BARGAINING UNION SETTLEMENT

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropri ate $90,000 from the Stabilization Fund for the purpose of funding a settlement of Collective Bargaini ng Agreement for the Dartmouth Town Employees Association Union, and to authorize the Town Accountant to make the necessary adjustments within Schedule A as voted in Article 19 of the June 6, 2006 Spring Annual Town Meeting.

289 SO VOTED. 10:29 AM

ARTICLE 9STM: PRIOR YEAR INVOICES

MOVED and duly seconded:

That the Town appropriate $746.10 from the Stabilization Fund, for the purpose of paying any outstanding invoices for the previous fiscal year.

SO VOTED. YES 251 NO 1 10:30 AM

MOVED and duly seconded.

To dissolve Specia l To wn Meetin g.

UN A N IM OUSLY V OTED. 10:30 AM

Attest:

______Eleanor J. White, Town Clerk

290