Town of Watertown 2008 Annual Report

Tow n of WATERTOWN

2008 Annual Report Town of Watertown 2008 Annual Report

Story of the Watertown Seal

On the Watertown seal is a picture of an English Colonist and an Indian exchanging, as peace tokens, bread for fish. Capt. Roger Clap, who landed at Nantusket Point in 1630, and rowed up Charles River to Gerry’s Landing with the first party of Watertown Colonists, records the following story of the trip:

“We went up Charles River until the river grew narrow and shallow, and there we landed our goods with much labor and toil, the bank being steep and night coming on. “We were informed that there were hard by us three hundred Indians. One Englishman that could speak the Indian language (an old Planter) went to them and advised them not to come near us in the night; and they harkened to his counsels, and came not, I myself was one of the sentinels that first night. Our Captain was a Low Country soldier, one Mr. Southcot, a brave soldier. “In the morning some of the Indians came and stood at a distance off, looking at us, but came not near us; but when they had been a while in view, some of them came and held out a great Bass toward us; so we sent a man with a Bisket, and changed the Cake for a Bass. Afterwards they supplied us with Bass, exchanging a Bass for a Bisket Cake, and were very friendly to us. “O dear children! Forget not what care God had over his dear servants, to watch over and protect us in our weak beginnings. Capt. Squeb turned ashore us and our goods, like a mercyless man, but God, ever our mercyful God, took pity on us; so that we were supplied, first with a boat, and them caused may Indians (some hundreds) to be ruled by the advice of one man not to come near us. Alas, had they come, how soon might they have destroyed us! I think we were not above ten in number. But God caused the Indians to help us with fish at very cheap rates.”

Table of Contents

Town Officials and Committees Elected Officials ...... 4 Boards and Commissions ...... 5 Department Heads ...... 7 Reports of the Town Manager and Town Council Town Council ...... 8 Town Manager ...... 10 Report of Town Finances Board of Assessors ...... 12 Treasurer/Collector/Parking Clerk ...... 13 Town Auditor ...... 14 Reports of the Offices of Town Administration Personnel Department ...... 76 Town Clerk and Election ...... 76 Information Technology Department ...... 78 Town Attorney ...... 79 Purchasing Department ...... 80 Health Department ...... 81 Council on Aging ...... 86 Recreation Department ...... 88 Watertown Free Public Library ...... 91 Veterans’ Services ...... 94 John A. Ryan Skating Arena ...... 96

Department of Public Works ...... 98 Reports of the Departments of Public Safety Police ...... 100 Fire ...... 107 Emergency Management ...... 110

Report of the Department of Community Development and Planning . . .112

Report of the Department of Public Schools ...... 120

Voting Results ...... 136

3 Watertown Elected Officials

Town Council President & Member of the School Committee School Committee Clyde L. Younger, 188 Acton Street ...... 617-923-0592 Eileen Hsu-Balzer, 897 Belmont Street ...... 617-484-8077 Council at Large Christopher Beach, 172 Standish Road...... 617-923-0755 Stephen Corbett, 14 Irving Park ...... 617-926-7872 Anthony P. Paolillo, 96 Robbins Road...... 617-924-2788 Marilyn M. Petitto Devaney, 98 Westminster Avenue ....617-923-0778 Laurie J. Mastrangelo McManus, 17 Channing Road....617-926-3187 Susan G. Falkoff, 19 Oliver Street ...... 617-924-5723 David R. Leon, 31 Standish Road ...... 617-923-4781 Mark Sideris, 30 Union Street...... 617-924-2699 John H. Portz, 24 Chapman Street ...... 617-924-1899 District A Councillor Library Trustee Angeline B. Kounelis, 55 Keenan Street #1 ...... 617-926-2352 Katherine H. Button, 48 Edward Road ...... 617-923-1840 Ann F. Bloom, 43A Parker Street ...... 617-924-0360 District B Councillor Michael J. Hanlon, Jr., 231 Coolidge Avenue #408 ...... 617-924-7613 Jonathan Hecht, 159 Russell Avenue...... 617-924-1490 Anna Kuwabara, 100 School Street #3 ...... 617-972-6434 District C Councillor Gracemarie V. LeBlanc, 76 Emerson Road ...... 617-924-9322 Vincent J. Piccirilli, 203 Orchard Street ...... 617-924-0665 Raya Stern, 207 Lexington Street ...... 617-926-3609 District D Councillor John J. Lawn, Jr., 20 Pilgrim Road ...... 617-923-2075

4 Boards and Commissions

Board of Appeals Environment and Energy Efficiency Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee Deborah Elliott Committee Peter Brooks Stuart Bailey Liza Ketchum Janet Jameson Carlos Fernandez Kenneth Mirvis Maria Saiz Melissa Santucci Lauri Murphy Sheila Fay Harry J. Vlachos Lisa Alexander Jonathan Niehof Sue Tamber, Deputy Superintendent Fred Hewett Board of Appeals of Public Works Bradford Parsons Alternate Member Mari Ryan Richard M. Moynihan Licensing Board Steven Engler George Newman Rachel Gould Board of Assessors Donna B. Doucette Joseph B. Darby, III Robert J. Whitney Commission on Disability Richard V. Moynihan Councillor Marilyn Petitto Devaney Daniel A. Loughlin, Chairman, Licensing Board Bob Hall Town Assessor Alternate Member Kim Charlson Sandra Hoffman Andrea Greenwood Board of Health Alex Liazos Barbara D. Beck, Ph.D. Planning Board Anne Doughty Carl N. Brownsberger, MD Linda Tuttle George Donahue Dr. John H. Straus G. Jack Zollo Albert Gayzagian Peter J. Abair Carol Menton Cable Access Corporation Jeffrey W. Brown Steven L. Singer John B. Hawes Council on Aging Robert D. Bejoian Dorothy Fleming Robert Kaprielian Watertown Historic District Mary T. Keenan Paul Michael Noftsker, School Member Commission Will Twombly Allie Altman, School Member Victoria Carter Betty Finnell Steven W. Aylward Amleto “Mel” Martocchia Marie A. Morello Gerry Field Harvey Steiner Jane Stadolnik Linda Sternberg Patricia Gold Conservation Commission Christopher Hursh Maria Rose Watertown Housing Authority Barbara Zenn Rediker Leo G. Martin David Dalla Costa Nancy Hammett E. Joyce Munger, Chair Cultural Council Marylouise Pallotta McDermott Allen Gallagher Rena Baskin Louis Taverna Thomas Beggan (State Appointee) Shaunna Harrington Charles Bering John O’Leary (Labor Representative) Sandy Jaffe Patrick Fairbairn Rebecca Curtiss Watertown Traffic Commission Rick Mohr Election Commissioners John M. Airasian Sarah Newhouse Gertrude Broderick John Bartley, Sr., Secretary Frances Forman George Bogosian Chief Edward P. Deveau, Chair Janet Mendelsohn Demos Zevitas Sergeant Joseph Deignan Chris Viklund Curtis A. Whitney Gerald S. Mee, Jr., Superintendent David Sprogis David Downes Chief Mario A. Orangio Jennifer Downing B. Bonnie Baronowski George Pizzuto, Wire Inspector Laurie Coiley-Massing Louis L. Fabrizio Lisa Cohen Lisa Feltner Marcia Ciro Ryan McKittrick

5 Historical Commission Watertown Housing Partnership Roberta Lane James Barwell Marilynne K. Roach Victoria J. Carter Donald S. Berg Danielle Fillis, Senior Planner Mary O’Looney David Leon J.B. Jones Alex Liazos Henrietta P. Light Judge Paul C. Menton David J. Russo, Jr. Thomas Wade, Watertown Housing Susan Steele Authority Thomas Melone Steven Magoon, Director, Community Development and Planning Police Station Building Committee Councillor John J. Lawn, Jr. Watertown Recycling Advisory Group Councillor Stephen P. Corbett Carol Bates Councillor Mark Sideris Charles C. Bering Fergal Brennock Arturo DeLuca Mark Dawson Martin Lerman Kathleen M. McGill Sue Tamber, Deputy Superintendent Edward P. Deveau, Police Chief Alice Wadden Lieutenant Justin Hanrahan Phyllis L. Marshall, Town Treasurer/Collector

6 Department Heads

Daniel Brothers, Manager Dr. Steven A. Hiersche, Ed.D., Mario A. Orangio, Fire Chief John A. Ryan Skating Arena Superintendent of Schools Fire Department 1 Paramount Place Watertown Public Schools 99 Main Street Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 30 Common Street Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Work: (617) 972-6469 Office Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Work: (617) 972-6511 (617) 972-6468 Arena Work: (617) 926-7700 Fax: (617) 972-6575 Fax: (617) 972-6498 Fax: (617) 926-9759 Daniel A. Loughlin, Town Assessor Raeleen Parsons, Purchasing Agent Leone E. Cole, Library Director Administration Building 149 Main Street Watertown Free Public Library 149 Main Street Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 123 Main Street Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Work: (617) 972-6414 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Work: (617) 972-6410 Fax: (617) 972-6403 Work: (617) 972-6434 Fax: (617) 972-6404 Fax: (617) 926-4375 Gayle M. Shattuck, Personnel Director Joseph J. Mahoney, Data Processing Administration Building Edward P. Deveau, Police Chief Manager 149 Main Street Police Department Administration Building Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 34 Cross Street 149 Main Street Work: (617) 972-6443 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Fax: (617) 972-6404 Work: (617) 972-6533 Work: (617) 972-6463 Fax: (617) 972-6409 Fax: (617) 972-6403 Thomas J. Sullivan, Recreation Department Director Robert Erickson, Veterans Agent Phyllis L. Marshall, Administration Building Administration Building Treasurer/Collector 149 Main Street 149 Main Street Administration Building Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 149 Main Street Work: (617) 972-6494 Work: (617) 972-6416 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Fax: (617) 972-6403 Fax: (617) 972-6403 Work: (617) 972-6452 Fax: (617) 972-6403 Thomas J. Tracy, Town Auditor John E. Flynn, Town Clerk Administration Building Administration Building Gerald S. Mee, Jr., 149 Main Street 149 Main Street Superintendent of Public Works Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Department of Public Works Work: (617) 972-6460 Work: (617) 972-6486 124 Orchard Street Fax: (617) 972-6404 Fax: (617) 972-6595 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Work: (617) 972-6421 Steven J. Ward, Health Director Caryl L. Fox, Director, Fax: (617) 972-6402 Administration Building Council on Aging 149 Main Street Senior Center Steven Magoon, Director, Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 30 Common Street Community Development and Planning Work: (617) 972-6445 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Administration Building Fax: (617) 972-6403 Work: (617) 972-6490 149 Main Street Fax: (617) 972-6493 Watertown, Massachusetts 02472 Work: (617) 972-6417 Fax: (617) 972-6484

7 Town Council

Report of the Town Council Council Membership Highlights of 2008 – Year 2008 The Town Council voted the following mat- A Report to the Residents District Councillors: ters in order to effectuate the most optimal of Watertown District A Councillor Angeline B. Kounelis level of services provided to the citizens of District B Councillor Jonathan Hecht Watertown: The nine members of the Town Council of District C Councillor Vincent J. Piccirilli, Jr. the City known as the Town of Watertown District D Councillor John J. Lawn, Jr. • January 8, 2008: the Town Council are elected biennially, in odd numbered voted to approve the execution of years, to serve as the legislative branch of Councillors at Large: a lease agreement for 319 Arlington the Town’s government. The elected mem- Marilyn M. Petitto Devaney Street, the former Coolidge School, in bers consist of four (4) District Councillors, Susan G. Falkoff order to develop mixed-income rental four (4) Councillors at Large and a Town Stephen Corbett housing for persons 55 or older on Council President who is elected by the at- Mark Sideris the leased premises. large population. Their principal function • February 12, 2008: the Town Council is to set policy for the administration of Town Council President: voted to adopt a resolution committing to the Town, its general government and pro- Clyde L. Younger decreasing the community’s waste stream grams, adopt an operating budget on rec- through increased curbside recycling. ommendations by the Town Manager, and Town Council Clerk: • February 26, 2008: the Town Council serve as overseers of the various agencies Valerie Papas of municipal government. As you will see voted to take permanent and temporary from this report for calendar year 2008, easements along Pleasant Street in your Town Council has been actively connection with improvements to the engaged in the performance of its responsi- Pleasant Street corridor. bilities as elected representatives of • April 8, 2008: the Town Council voted Watertown’s residents. to appropriate $534,800 for townwide sewer and manhole replacement and rehabilitation work to repair defective pipes and manholes.

Standing, left to right: Stephen Corbett, Valerie Papas, Jonathan Hecht, Marilyn M. Petitto Devaney, Michael J. Driscoll, John J. Lawn, Jr. Seated, left to right: Angeline B. Kounelis, Mark Sideris, Clyde L. Younger, Vincent J. Piccirilli, Jr., Susan G. Falkoff

8 • September 9, 2008: the Town Council Acknowledgments adopted an amended Wetland’s The President and members of the Town Ordinance to protect additional resource Council, individually and collectively, grate- areas for additional interests with fully acknowledge those who have helped additional standards and procedures that in the fulfillment of its mission to serve the are more stringent than those of the people of the City known as the Town of Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act. Watertown. We are especially grateful to the • September 23, 2008: the Town Council Town Manager who continues to provide adopted a resolution requesting Blue guidance and assistance with the fiscal Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts to responsibility, budgetary process and sever ties with the Anti-Defamation management of the day-to-day operations League (ADL) and its No Place For Hate of the Town. Program. We also acknowledge with thanks and • October 14, 2008: the Town Council respect the efforts of each and every Town adopted a resolution to enter into a lease employee in every department, along with with WaterPart LLC for property at One those members who serve on elected and Arsenal Place in conjunction with the appointed boards, commissions and com- Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task mittees. Their commitment to public service Force (OCDETF). is recognized with pride and gratitude. To each and every one of the merchants The Town Council, through its subcommit- and businesses in our great community, we tees, continued its work on the following thank you for your diligence, patience and matters: the development of the Fiscal Year support. Building a foundation through 2010 budget; improvements to streets, side- your professional and cooperative efforts walks and planting strips; continued discus- has resulted in quality services that resi- sions on the Capital Improvement Program dents and visitors continue to enjoy. 2010-2014; disposition of branch libraries; improvements to the Charles River Landing; Our commitment to the citizens of our and the need for a Recycling Center. Town remains constant. Because you have entrusted us as your public servants with your continued support and input, we would like to especially extend our heart- felt gratitude to all residents for making Watertown your home.

9 TOWN OF WATERTOWN Office of the Town Manager Michael J. Driscoll

To the Honorable Town Council and Residents and Taxpayers of Watertown: On behalf of the City known as the Town of Watertown and its employees, I am pleased to present to you the Town of Watertown’s Annual Report for the calendar year beginning January 1, 2008 and ending December 31, 2008. I believe you will find this annual report both interesting and informative as it recapitulates the accomplishments and achievements of the Town for the stated period. Throughout this report the reader will find detailed narratives discussing programs and initiatives that meet the stated Town Council philosophy on departmental fiscal discipline. This selection below highlights some of the particularly noteworthy achievements of 2008: • U.S. Department of Homeland Security awards the Watertown Fire Department $59,066 under the FY 2007 Assistance to Firefighters Grant – This award will provide funds to enhance and upgrade certain current equipment and training, specifically the department’s three oldest thermal imaging cameras, an emergency vehicle operator training course and replacement/supplemental self-contained breathing apparatus supply cylinders. • Pleasant Street Corridor Study update – On January 22, 2008, the Honorable Town Council received an update on summarizing the Pleasant Street Corridor Study process and incorporating the framework for the forthcoming implementation phase. • Affordable Housing: 1060 Belmont Street – The Town and Watertown Community Housing in partnership acquired this property containing three brick garden-style apartment buildings, each containing six units through the Federal HOME Funds allocation through its partnership in the MetroWest HOME Consortium. The property will be operated “as is” for a period of 12–24 months while additional funding is secured to properly renovate and operate the project. • New Police facility to incorporate “sustainable design” – On February 12, 2008, the Town Council approved the transfer of $39,000 to move forward with design services of a 30kw photovoltaic (PV) solar energy generating system and a geothermal heat pump system for heating ventilation air conditioning (HVAC). The “sustainable design” items limit onsite development and maintaining open parkland, reducing and slowing storm water runoff, reducing projected water use by 20%, exceeding energy code requirements by more than 20%, reduction of construction waste through reuse of materials, and maximizing day lighting of habitable work spaces. • Purchasing Director Appointed – On March 10, 2008, Raeleen Parsons began her tenure with the Town. Ms. Parsons brings a breadth and width of experience to this community.

10 • Honorable Town Council approves Loan Order from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority’s (MWRA) Inflow and Infiltration Local Financial Assistance Program – In April 2008, the Town Council approved a Loan Order in the amount of $534,800 for the purpose of financing sewer and manhole replacement and rehabilitation work to fix defective pipes and manholes in the sewer system. Funding from the MWRA Program consists of a 45% grant ($240,660) and a 55% interest-free loan ($294,140). • Honorable Town Council approves Loan Ordcr for the Police Facility at 552 Main Street – In June 2008, the Town Council approved a Loan Order in the amount of $14,221,257 for constructing, originally equipping and furnishing a new Police Facility. • Summer 2008 School Building Improvements – In June 2008, the Honorable Town Council approved a Loan Order to borrow and/or expend monies in the amount of $313,000 for remodeling, reconstructing or making extraordinary repairs to various school buildings. The schools affected were: Watertown High, Middle, Cunniff, Hosmer, Lowell and Phillips. • Community Policing Gift – In June 2008, the Honorable Town Council appropriated gift expenditure in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 44, Section 53A, in the amount of $15,000. This gift from Cornwell Enterprises, Inc. provided funds for Community Policing initiatives and training. • Street and Sidewalk Improvements Loan Order – In June 2008, the Town Council approved a Loan Order in the amount of $5,300,000 for street and sidewalk improvements and an underground duct for a fire alarm. This Loan Order is consistent with the Honorable Town Council’s priorities of not deterring maintenance and/or recognition of costs of capital equipments, facilities, and infrastructure to future years. • Purchase of Natural Gas Supply and Related Services – The Honorable Town Council authorized the Town Manager to enter into a contract in excess of three years with Bay State Consulting for the procurement of natural gas through a consortium bid. • Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) Stabilization Fund – In July 2007, the Honorable Town Council voted to establish this fund and transferred an initial $864,710 into this fund as a first step in the development of a plan to address the Town’s Other Post- Employment Benefits obligation. In July 2008, the Honorable Town Council approved the transfer of $151,987 to supplement this fund. • Director of Community Development and Planning Appointed – On September 8, 2008, Steven Magoon began his tenure with the Town. Mr. Magoon brings a breadth and width of experience to this community. • Patriot Day Observance – On September 11, 2008, the Town of Watertown observed this solemn event in remembrance of those gallant Americans who died on that unforgettable date in American history. • The Town of Watertown joins the Group Insurance Commission – In October 2008, the Town Manager announced a Memo- randum of Agreement with the Public Employee Committee, transferring the Town’s group health insurance coverage to the Group Insurance Commission as of July 1, 2009. This action was ranked the number one goal by the Council to keep health insurance costs down and is estimated to save/avoid $1.6 million in the Fiscal Year 2010 Budget. • Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force – In October 2008, the Town negotiated a lease with WaterPart LLC for space on the second floor of property located at One Arsenal Place for the benefit of the Federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The operations of the OCDETF will benefit the Town in providing specialized training and support for the Town’s Police Department as well as providing for the Town’s residents. I urge you to read further to learn about our Town Departments and their quality work, ensuring that Watertown continues to be a destination to live, work and visit. Sincerely,

Michael J. Driscoll Town Manager

11 Board of Assessors

During 2008, the Assessing Department on the fiscal 2009 third-quarter tax bill. tax dollars. For fiscal 2009, 6,221 residen- continued to work toward the mission of Single family homes have experienced the tial taxpayers received the exemption out of providing fair and equitable assessments smallest decreases in value, followed by approximately 9,500 residential properties. for all Watertown taxpayers. condos, while two- and three-family homes In addition, there are a number of statutory have seen the greatest declines. exemptions that are available to certain The Assessors completed the annual prop- qualifying taxpayers: All of these exemptions erty reassessment which is mandated by As we approach the end of 2008, it is are at their maximum allowable amounts the Department of Revenue. The reassess- evident that residential property values under the law: ment program involves an extensive audit have continued to decline. Consequently, of assessment records and procedures in residential assessments for next year will Clause order to ensure the Town is meeting the most likely be adjusted downward again as 22 10% (or greater) “Full and Fair Cash” standard for property a result of an initial analysis of 2008 sales. Disabled Veteran $ 800 assessments. Unlike residential property values which 22E 100% Disabled Each year the Assessors review property have fallen during calendar 2006 and 2007, Veteran $2,000 assessments to determine if any adjustments commercial values had not yet declined 17D Surviving Spouse/Minor are necessary to reflect changes in market and consequently, their share of the total Child or Elderly Person $ 350 values. Toward the end of 2005 the market tax burden has increased. An analysis of began to slowly soften and continued a the last six months of 2008 has revealed, 37A Blind Person $1,000 more steady decline through 2006 and however, that commercial property values 2007 and into 2008. An analysis of 2006 are starting to show declines as the regional 41C Qualified Senior property sales indicates that residential mar- and national economy has officially fallen Citizen (65+) $1,000 ket values decreased from the peak of 2005 into a recession with the attendant layoffs Among the goals and objectives set by the and as a result, most residential property and drop in consumer spending. Board of Assessors for 2009 is an increased assessments were lowered last year (Fiscal While residential taxpayers are paying a commitment to providing taxpayers with 2008). For this year (Fiscal 2009) a review much lower tax rate than commercial tax- information through the Town’s website, of 2007 sales indicates that the residential payers, they are also eligible to receive the mailers, news articles, cable television and market experienced a similar decline of residential tax exemption worth $1,086 in public appearances. approximately 1% to 8% which is reflected

2008 2009 FISCAL YEAR (07/01/07 – 6/30/08) (07/01/08 – 06/30/09) Tax Rates: Residential $11.39 $12.24 Commercial $21.01 $22.54 Industrial $21.01 $22.54 Personal Property $21.01 $22.54 Residential Exemption $1,063.02 $1,086.09 Valuations: Residential $4,383,685,703 $4,264,515,300 Commercial $ 709,704,535 $ 658,305,124 Industrial $ 231,541,740 $ 230,058,940 Personal Property $ 91,163,388 $ 92,411,840

12 Treasurer/Collector/Parking Clerk

This Report on the Treasurer/Collector/ Short-Term borrowings for Fiscal Year 2008 Watertown continues to have a high rate Parking Clerk Office covers Fiscal Year were as follows: of Real Estate Tax collections. The rate of 2008, from July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008. collection for FY 2008 Property Taxes, as of Bond Anticipation Schedules of Selected Financial Informa- June 30, 2008, was 98.3%. Notes (BANs): $ 443,000 tion, Major Categories of Receipts and Debt 1,576,000 As of June 30, 2008, the following FY 2008 Principal and Interest are shown. ______taxes and user charges were unpaid: During FY 2008, bond principal payments $2,019,000 Real Estate $930,630 were $3,794,505 and long-term interest Short-Term Interest paid in FY 2008 was Personal Property $ 25,073 payments were $1,569,163 for a total $27,769. Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs) Motor Vehicle $200,914 permanent debt service of $5,363,668. are primarily used to generate revenue Boat $ 0 Total debt principal balance was needed to begin funding capital projects Water $536,984 $36,197,656 as of June 30, 2008. before permanent borrowing (Bonds) are Sewer $911,879 issued. A Bond Anticipation Note (BAN) Commercial Refuse $ 19,417 generally costs less to issue than Bonds and can be rolled over for one year.

FY 2008 Selected Financial Information TAX TITLES July 01, 2007 – June 30, 2008 Brought Forward (July 01, 2007) $461,344 DEBT BALANCE (6/30/08) $ 36,197,656 Tax Takings 140,713 Subsequent Taxes 496,946 FUNDS Redemptions (402,435) Brought Forward (July 01, 2007) $ 34,514,603 Foreclosures (36,457) Cash 116,004,250 ______Ending Balance (June 30, 2008) $660,111 Cash Paid Out______112,830,472 MAJOR CATEGORIES OF RECEIPTS Ending Balance (June 30, 2008) $ 37,688,381 Property/Excise Taxes $67,807,799 CASH MANAGEMENT Intergovernmental 12,636,958 Interest Income $761,093 Water/Sewer/Commercial 15,140,635 Short-Term Interest Paid______27,769 Departmental 3,227,331 Net $733,324 Interest Earnings 761,093 OTHER INTEREST Parking Fines 615,871 Tax Titles $ 72,087 Parking Meters 335,643 Late Payments 233,591 ______License and Permits 207,629 TOTAL $305,678 Payments in Lieu of Taxes 1,579,705 Total Interest Income $1,066,771 Penalty Interest & Costs 323,895 Total Short-Term Interest Expense______27,769 Net Interest Income $1,039,002

13 Town Auditor

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75 Personnel Department

The Personnel Department consists of the Unemployment Assurance, the Massachusetts a Sexual Harassment Awareness training for Personnel Director and the Administrative Municipal Association website and profes- Department heads. More trainings will be Assistant. The Department provides services sional sites. Applicants can view job postings, scheduled in 2009. to regular, part-time and temporary munici- fill out a Town Application form from the The Personnel Director, as the ADA pal employees on issues relating to adminis- Personnel Department web page and submit Coordinator, assists the Commission on tering the personnel bylaws, policies and it by e-mail at any hour of the day. Similarly, Disability as staff support for their meetings procedures; maintaining employee classifi- residents who are interested in Civil Service and activities. The Commission on Disability cation and compensation plans; processing recruitments can research examination dates provides information, advice and advocacy of all municipal personnel actions to ensure and apply online directly to the Human for Town and School departments as well as legal and policy compliance; managing Resources Division website. individuals in the community. The Commis- employee recruitment and selection; and The Department was very busy with the sion regularly reviews local construction coordinating training services. process of negotiations with six collective plans for compliance with the Americans Unemployment, Workers Compensation, bargaining units. As a support to the GIC with Disabilities Act, participates in Faire on Department of Transportation regulations negotiations, the Personnel Office was the Square and advocates for residents with for random drug and alcohol testing, med- involved in facilitating meetings, data col- School and Town officials. Information ical testing and psychological evaluation lection and data analysis. The Department about meetings and pertinent issues can be services are managed from the Personnel frequently provides department heads and found on the website www.wcod.org. Ten Department with third-party agreements individual employees with interpretations of monthly meetings are held on the third with professionals in those fields. their collective bargaining agreements. Wednesday of the month. Some of the many accomplishments in 2008 include a partner- The Department deals with a wide variety The Personnel Director is part of the ship with the Town to request of the MBTA of issues relative to quality of life in the Emergency Preparedness Team which that a bus stop be moved to the Delta; a workplace. The Employee Assistance meets monthly and is chaired by the Fire partnership with the Department of Public Program (EAP) contract is managed from Chief. The Personnel Director is the advo- Works to have the recycling brochure this department. This contract provides cate and support for municipal employees printed in Braille; sponsorship of the film services as a benefit for all municipal involved in emergencies. Labeled Disabled by Maggie Dobson, which employees and their immediate family Massachusetts law requires that all employ- was shown at the Watertown Free Library. members relating to counseling, advocacy, ees be given a copy of the Town’s policy on Two Commissioners are members of the advice, financial planning and other confi- the prevention of Sexual Harassment in the Town’s Emergency Preparedness Team. dential services. workplace. All new employees are provided Three Commission members completed The Department seeks to improve the effec- with the policy at hire. The Personnel the Community Access Monitor Program tiveness of Town services by recruiting skilled Department participated in a MIIA train- conducted by the Massachusetts Office employees. Recruitments are posted to the the-trainer course in 2008 and with the on Disability. Town’s website as well as the Department of Employee Assistance Program, conducted Town Clerk and Election

The Town Clerk and Election Office serves The Town Clerk’s office was first established office also serves as a distribution center as a direct link between the citizenry and its in 1634, the first year records were kept, for various Town brochures and surveys. Town government. The Town Clerk’s office, and continues today to provide accurate The staff in the office also serve as by statute, is responsible for the issuance documentation on events and happenings of “unofficial ombudsmen” to provide general of vital statistics, maintenance of Town the City known as the Town of Watertown. information regarding various municipal records, the insurance of compliance with The Town Clerk’s office provides a number services to the public. The Town Clerk’s the Commonwealth’s Open Meeting Law and of consumer services, such as the issuance office also serves as a liaison between the it also serves as a repository for all rules, of dog licenses, the sale of various Division Town and the Federal and State governments. regulations, ordinances and bylaws promul- of Fisheries and Wildlife licenses, the recor- During calendar year 2008, the office gated by the Town Council and other Town dation of Uniform Commercial Code state- achieved the following: departments. ments, and notary public services, and the

76 • Maintained the highest level of accuracy The Licensing Board promulgates rules and Total Clerks Revenue in the recording and issuance of the Vital regulations specific to Watertown to ensure Total Fees Collected $210,693.75 Statistics of the Town of Watertown. the life, safety, and health of the citizenry Paid to the Commonwealth______($8,014.25) • Placed election signage in strategic and Town visitors. The Licensing Board locations throughout the Town alerting issues a myriad of licenses and permits that Net Revenue to the Town $202,679.50 the citizenry to the upcoming voting range from amusement devices, to gasoline, Vital Statistics exercises. to liquor licenses. All of the licenses issued are renewable yearly. The Licensing Board Births 416 • Conducted the 2008 Annual Town Census. also serves as a hearing officer to ensure Deaths Recorded 257 • Participated in the development of the compliance with licensing conditions. Marriage Intentions 240 Town’s FY 2009 operating budget. Marriages Recorded 231 • Continued the duties and responsibilities The Licensing Board also works closely with as Burial Agent for the Town. five Town departments, the Alcohol Beverage Affidavits of Correction Control Commission and the State Fire of Births, Deaths and • Completed the annual renewal process Marshal’s Office in the licensing process. Marriages Recorded 19 for all applicable licenses, permits and certificates while ensuring compliance Licenses and Fees Licenses with Chapter XVII of the Town’s Burial Permits $1,000.00 Kennel License 1 ordinances. Dog Licenses 6,550.00 Dog Licenses 667 • Ensured compliance with state guide- Cat Licenses 3,635.00 Cat Licenses 426 lines in the filing of necessary annual reports with the Alcohol Beverage Control Marriages 5,975.00 Seven Day All Alcoholic Commission and the Department of Raffle 190.00 Common Victualler (Restaurants) 19 Public Safety. Hunting Licenses 824.25 Seven Day Wine/Malt Common Victualler (Restaurants) 3 • Ensured access to all polling locations Wildland Stamps – throughout the Town. Resident and Non-Resident 1,400.00 Six Day All Alcoholic Common Victualler (Restaurants) 7 • Coordinated public/private resources in Archery Stamp 260.00 General on Premise 0 planning of the Faire on the Square 2008. Sporting Licenses 1,126.00 Six Day Wine/Malt Common Victualler 4 The Election Commission, directed under Fishing Licenses 4,385.00 Massachusetts General Law, by the four- Common Victualler License 92 Sporting Fees 425.10 member board of election commissioners, Clubs 11 has a number of responsibilities mandated Waterfowl Stamps 19.00 Auto Dealer Class I 10 by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 50 Licenses Commission – Alcohol, through 56. The Commission as charged is Common Victualler, etc. 115,660.00 Auto Dealer Class II 12 to ensure fair and impartial elections in the Miscellaneous Clerk/Election Fees 159.40 Auto Dealer Class III 0 Town of Watertown. Responsibilities Resident Book 375.00 All Alcoholic Packaged Goods Store 6 include: coordination of the annual census, Packaged Goods Store Wine/Malt 7 generation of voting lists and jury lists, Certified Copies 19,110.00 implementation of the National Voter Underground Storage Permits 6,550.00 24-Hours opening 5 Registration Act through the establishment Non-Criminal Fines 1,475.00 Sale of Food at Retail 5 of the Central Voter Registry, maintenance Miscellaneous Licensing Entertainment 17 of the Town’s residency database and com- Board Fees______30,720.00 Music Box 7 pliance with the Commonwealth’s Campaign Automatic Amusement Device 11 Finance reporting procedures. TOTAL $199,838.75 Auto Repair 57 Recording Fees The Election Commission conducted the Letting out of Motor Vehicles 4 following voting exercises during 2008: Business Certificates and Business Certificate Shuttle/Jitney 1 DATE TYPE OF ELECTION Withdrawals______10,855.00 Livery 15 February 5, 2008 Presidential Primary TOTAL $10,855.00 September 16, 2008 State Primary November 4, 2008 State Election

77 Information Technology Department

The Information Technology (IT) Depart- Working with department managers, the GIS system now benefits Town staff and the ment supports the Town of Watertown’s Information Technology Department contin- Assessors, Public Works, Public Safety, and administrative Information Systems and ued the project of improving the MUNIS Planning Department. Plans are in place to leads the implementation of new computer Integrated Financial Management system. provide public access. technologies. Located in Town Hall, the The integrated financial management sys- The IT Department manages the Town’s Department administers the Town’s wide- tem improves the functionality of municipal Official website: www.watertown-ma.gov. area computer network, which connects applications and improves employee pro- More documents are now in the Document Town Hall, Library, Police, Fire, School ductivity. More applications are integrated Center. Plans are in place to provide addi- Department, and Public Works buildings. so as to eliminate redundant processing. A tional real-time information (Town ordi- Additional municipal buildings on the wide- migration to a newer version of the MUNIS nances) and interactive forms. Also, a area network include the Commander’s software suite is planned for early 2009. Citizens Request Tracking module was Mansion, Senior Center, and John A. Ryan New permitting software was installed installed to allow citizens to make requests Skating Arena. The Department also this year which automates the building online for various services. On the website, manages computers which process permitting process. New modules include citizens can also access a link to Assessing Financials, Accounts Payables, Purchasing, Building Permits, Building Code Enforce- information and a link to the Treasurer/ Requisitioning, Payroll, Water/Sewer Billing, ments, Planning, Zoning, and Conservation Collector parking ticket payment and motor Real Estate Tax Billing, and Assessing. Commission. The system allows the automa- vehicle excise tax payment systems. Plans Other administrative systems, Motor Vehicle tion of procedures, electronic printing, and are in place to redesign the Town’s website Billing, and Parking Ticket processing are approval controls. Plans are in place to to provide for improved navigation and new supported by outside vendors. provide public access via the Town’s web- communications tools. The Town’s Computer Network provides a site to facilitate citizen interaction with Another IT initiative of 2008 included an complete electronic platform for employees the Town. effort to save costs, paper, and energy, and to communicate and share documents. The Assessors’ Office collaborated with IT the following were undertaken: energy- Built on a backbone of high-speed fiber- and other departments in expanding the saving computers and monitors, double- optic cabling, the system allows for private Town’s Geographical Information System sided printers, remanufactured toner and secure communications among Town (GIS). Digital maps with links to data files cartridges, “changing the margins” to departments. A firewall gateway provides provide employees with an efficient method narrow. Working with various Town secure Internet e-mail and web browsing. of analyzing Town information. The GIS Departments, the IT Department will con- Anti-virus software is installed to update model is web-based and hosted – reducing tinue these policies. network computers automatically from a operating costs, and eliminating the need secure website. Web monitoring and filter- for significant hardware investments. The ing software is installed as well.

78 Town Attorney

Kopelman and Paige, P.C. continued in its decisions and defending against challenges Medical Leave Act, the availability of the longstanding role as Town Attorney for the to those decisions. We reviewed and attorney-client privilege for government City known as the Town of Watertown. The drafted a number of planning and housing officials, and identity theft. Through these Town Attorney attended all Town Council documents in conjunction with the Planning memoranda, we hope to provide Town meetings, providing an immediate resource Department, and reviewed contracts and officials the tools to resolve issues while for issues of parliamentary procedure and agreements for the Purchasing Agent. reducing general legal costs. We are then interpretations of the Town’s Home Rule able to provide attention to specific matters The Town Attorney also represented the Charter and the Council’s Rules. We also of concern to the Town. Town before administrative agencies includ- outlined requirements of state statutes as ing the Civil Service Commission, the Labor Kopelman and Paige is both pleased and well as the Town’s own ordinances and rules Relations Commission, and the Massachu- proud to represent the City known as the and regulations. setts Commission Against Discrimination. Town of Watertown as Town Attorney. We As Town Attorney, we worked with the Town We represented the Town in litigation mat- thank the Town Manager and the Town Manager and department heads to provide ters before various state and federal courts. Council for this privilege, and commend legal advice and resolve a number of issues. We also worked with the Town in matters them on their hard work and dedication. We worked with the Town to develop leases involving agencies such as the United States We also thank the various Town department involving the former Coolidge School as well Environmental Protection Agency, the heads, boards, and employees with whom as property to be used for federal law Department of Public Health, and the state we work, and look forward to continuing to enforcement work. We worked closely with Attorney General’s Office. provide the Town with effective legal advice the Board of Health to resolve issues with and representation. We continued our program of producing dilapidated properties as well as enforce- no-cost memoranda on a wide range of Respectfully submitted, ment matters. We advised the Town’s zoning topics. This year, we provided the Town boards on interpretations of the Town’s Kopelman and Paige, P.C. with advice on such topics as trench safety zoning ordinances. We worked with the Town Attorney requirements, changes to the Family and Licensing Board in deliberating and issuing

79 Purchasing Department

The Purchasing Department aims to provide develop a preliminary design and options bidding awards, as well as cooperative bids valuable services to the Town by assisting for a new field. conducted with a group of municipalities. departments to obtain the highest quality Computer equipment, computer software, During the early months of 2008 the of supplies and services for the best dollar computer consulting services, vehicle pur- Department instituted a policy to produce value. The Department also functions as chase and replacement, public safety sup- all in-house contracts and specifications a control to ensure the Town is complying plies, vehicle parts, building maintenance using both sides of the paper to reduce with Massachusetts General Laws and Local services (HVAC), training and educational the use of paper. As in most cases, a single Ordinances. Ongoing initiatives include services are all examples of successful pro- project may contain 25 or more pages identifying cost-savings, consolidating pur- curements exercised by Watertown through per specification. For each project a mini- chases when appropriate, and assisting the use of the State contracts. Cooperative mum of 10 to 15 sets of specifications are departments with gathering information bidding has led to cost-savings in the pro- reproduced for publication. Using both needed to make informed buying decisions. curement of office supplies, heating fuel, sides of the paper reduced the use of paper vehicle fuel, road salt, natural gas, electric- In 2008, the Department publicly procured significantly. ity and vehicles. a number of large projects: the New Police The Purchasing Department ensures that all Station Facility, the Roadway Rehabilitation The Purchasing Agent works closely with projects are posted on the Town’s website Project, Town Hall Counter, Infiltration and departments to guide them through the pur- and kept up to date as projects become Inflow, Sewer Rehabilitation, Turf Mainte- chasing process to deliver needed goods or active. Purchasing encourages bidders to nance, Cemetery Maintenance, Parks services. Maintaining open communications request bid packages via e-mail or on the Maintenance, Natural Gas and Electricity. with departments allows for purchasing to web. This reduces both costs for reproduc- identify areas of opportunity for centralized With the help of key team members, the tion and postage. Additionally, all active purchasing or group purchasing to gain the Purchasing Department led the procure- contracts are posted on the public drive for most cost-effective procurements. ment for design services for the Victory Town Department use to review and refer- Field Artificial Turf Project. The Department ence all contracted services. Respectfully submitted, coordinated with the selected firm along The Purchasing Department will continue to Raeleen Parsons, MCPPO with Town and School departments to use the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Purchasing Agent

80 Health Department

The Health Department staff consists of Environmental Inspections: 2008 one full-time Director, one full-time Food Establishments 686 Chief Environmental Health Officer, two Housing 144 full-time Sanitarians, one full-time Head Swimming Pool/Whirlpool 144 Clerk, one full-time Public Health Nurse, Hazardous Materials 156 one full-time Animal Control Officer/ Nuisance Complaints 59 Jr. Sanitarian and one part-time Food Complaints 29 Veterinarian. Animal Complaints 441 The Board of Health consists of three Total 1,659 members that are appointed for three- During 2008, the Watertown Health year terms by the Town Manager. Department provided 26 Person In Charge (PIC) Trainings for food handlers in Environmental Health Watertown. Under the Massachusetts Food The Health Department conducts numerous Code, the Person In Charge is “the individ- mandated inspections throughout the year ual present at a Food Establishment who is according to local and state mandates. responsible for the operation at the time of These inspections include, but are not lim- inspection.” These voluntary trainings are ited to, food establishments including offered by the Health Department in order grease trap maintenance, housing, body art to provide food handlers with the tools nec- establishments, indoor air quality at skating essary to operate in compliance with the Housing inspection before and after rinks, tanning establishments, swimming Food Code. Issues covered during these PIC pools and whirlpools, group homes and trainings include appropriate cooking and motels. The Health Department also con- reheating temperatures, when and how to ducts hazardous materials inspections in wash your hands, and cleaning and sanitiz- accordance with provisions of the ing requirements. Watertown Hazardous Material Regulation. Another portion of the Health Department’s This program is designed to assist busi- work involves complaint investigation, nesses in the proper handling, storage and including, but not limited to, solid waste, disposal of hazardous materials. dust, odors, noises, rodents, hazardous waste incidents, food establishments, food- borne illnesses, nuisances, tobacco, housing, and problem animals. On occasion, the Health Department must hold show cause administrative hearings and prepare cases for resolution in District Court. Five hundred and ninety complaints were investigated in 2008, and 18 of these cases were resolved in court. Some of those complaints involve rubbish and garbage left out on the curb at non- collection times or days. The Health Depart- ment distributed bright green door hangers reminding citizens of how and when to place garbage and rubbish out for collection. Rubbish and garbage complaint investigation

Food inspections

81 In conjunction with inspectional work, the Household Medical Waste was collected in violators in District Court. The ACO edu- Health Department issues numerous per- the spring and fall at the Administration cates the public regarding health and safety mits. Before a permit can be issued, the Building parking lot. A vendor specializing concerns involving animals, lectures in permit holder/applicant submits complete in the packaging, transportation and dis- school classrooms and on cable television. and accurate information. In addition, the posal of Medical Waste was hired to handle As Inspector of Animals the ACO carries out Health Department reviews plans for all this material. Thirty residents brought nee- the isolation and quarantine of suspected new and renovated food establishments, dles, syringes and medications for sanitary rabid animals, animals with wounds of facilities with hazardous materials, tanning, disposal. Eliminating these materials from unknown origin or animals bitten by sus- body art, swimming pools, massage estab- the municipal waste stream reduces the pected or confirmed rabid animals. These lishments and Community Development and potential for accidental needle sticks and findings are reported to the Massachusetts Planning projects. the improper disposal of medical wastes. Bureau of Animal Health. Isolation and quarantine cases are often done in cooper- Environmental Permits: 2008 Hazardous Materials ation with Watertown veterinarian Thomas Food Establishment 211 Seminar Cusick, DVM. Temporary Food Events 302 The Watertown Health Department offered Swimming Pool/Whirlpool 20 a Hazardous Materials Seminar for Water- Tanning Establishments 3 town Hazardous Materials permit holders. Body Art Establishments 1 The purpose of this seminar was to educate Hazardous Material Facilities 159 permit holders on the Town of Watertown’s Hazardous Material Regulation, which is Household Hazardous and designed to protect, preserve, and maintain Medical Waste Collection the environment and the public health in Watertown residents took household the Town as well as its water reserves from hazardous waste to the Minuteman Regional contamination and exposure to hazardous Household Products Facility in Lexington. materials. Pre-registration at the Health Department Abandoned dog adopted out was required before any resident could Pool Operator Training Rabies Clinic enter the site on one of the eight collection Prior to the issuance of the seasonal pool days during the year. One hundred and permits, the Health Department convened The rabies clinics are held annually with seventy-five Watertown residents visited the a number of pool operators for training Thomas Cusick, DVM, participating. Dogs facility in 2008. sessions that re-educated them about the and cats are vaccinated for rabies the requirements for a permit, the Health first Saturday in April each year at the Department’s inspection process, impor- Watertown Administration Building. This tance of chemical maintenance, how to past year a total of 50 animals received calculate dimensions of the pool and its rabies vaccinations at the clinic. flow rate, and other requirements of the Swimming Pool code. Animal Control The ACO/Jr. Sanitarian’s (ACO) duties Waiting in line at the Household Hazardous Waste Facility include, but are not limited to, patrolling the Town, participation in a rabies/West Nile Virus task force, investigation of vector control and solid waste complaints, swimming pool inspections, food establishment inspections and the enforcement of all per- Rabies Vaccination Clinic at the Town Hall tinent state laws and the Watertown Animal Control Ordinance. Enforcement action includes the issuing of citations (tickets) for non-compliance, responding to emer- Medical Waste Collection at Town Hall gency dispatch calls and the prosecution of

82 Geese Control Mosquito Control Touch the Trucks In order to address the concern of an The Board of Health worked in conjunction On November 15, 2008, the Health Depart- increasing geese population in Watertown, with the East Middlesex Mosquito Control ment participated in “Touch the Trucks,” the Health Department implemented a multi- Commission (EMMCP) in planning larvi- an event organized by the Watertown Family faceted approach designed to reduce the cide, adulticide and surveillance activities Network. The Animal Control van was avail- resident geese population in town. The throughout the Town. In 2008 the threat of able for children to explore and the ACO Health Department, in conjunction with the West Nile Virus (WNV) continued to was available to answer animal-related Atlantic Goose Management, provided a spe- impact Massachusetts and the Nation. One questions. Literature was made available cially trained German Shepherd to herd the hundred and thirty-five mosquito pools to parents on dog bite prevention and geese away from Watertown’s parks and tested positive for WNV but zero humans emergency preparedness for animals. playgrounds during certain weeks in the tested positive for the Virus. One Massa- spring and fall. In addition to Atlantic Goose chusetts resident tested positive for Eastern Management’s efforts, the Health Department Equine Encephalitis (EEE) Virus. As a also worked in collaboration with the result of the WNV and EEE threat the Town Charles River Conservancy and participated applied larvicide briquettes to the Town’s in egg oiling (addling) to prevent geese eggs catch basins in order to control the emer- from hatching during the certain stages of gence of vector mosquitoes. The Health their development. All egg addlers are Department and EMMCP continually moni- trained and permitted by Geese Peace, a tor the emergence of these viruses and national geese protection agency that is rec- adjust plans accordingly to maintain com- ognized by PETA and the MSPCA to conduct prehensive intervention, education and ethical egg addling techniques. A total of 139 surveillance programs. Living with Coyotes seminar eggs were oiled in Watertown in 2008. This In addition, the Health Department distrib- number is down from 2007 due to increased uted bright blue door hangers to area predator activity. The Health Department also homes with information about West Nile patrols the sites where geese are known to Virus, removal of standing water serving as reside to identify individuals who may be breeding areas for mosquitoes, and per- feeding geese and to educate them as to why sonal protection from mosquitoes when feeding is prohibited. outdoors.

Touch the Truck Day

Wildlife The ACO responds to calls about sick or injured wildlife. The ACO also responds to Black line on map indicates where egg oiling and surveillance occurs and educates residents on wildlife issues. In 2008 there has been an increased presence of wildlife in Watertown. Wildlife concerns in Watertown involve coyotes, foxes, deer, hawks, geese, snapping turtles, among others. In July, the Health Department hosted John Maguranis, Belmont ACO, for his seminar “Living with the Eastern Coyote.”

German Shepherd used for geese herding Larvaciding catch basins to prevent WNV

83 Emergency Preparedness Public Health Interns Flu Clinics The incorporation of emergency prepared- Throughout the year undergraduate stu- There were 11 public Influenza/Pneumonia ness responsibilities has significantly dents in biology and health sciences from clinics held in the 2008 season. Three clin- increased the workload of the Health Worcester State College participated in envi- ics were held at Watertown Senior Center Department staff. Watertown is one of 27 ronmental health and emergency prepared- and were designated to address the high- cities and towns that comprise Region 4B ness internship projects aimed at satisfying risk elder population. Homebound, elderly of the Massachusetts Department of Public their academic requirements while provid- and disabled residents received flu shots via Health (MDPH) emergency preparedness ing the Health Department with assistance home visits by the Public Health Nurse. district. There are 15 statewide coalitions in for completion of important projects. Twenty-nine Pneumococcal vaccines were all. Calendar year 2008 marked the sixth Projects included, but were not limited to, given for those who were high risk for year of Watertown’s participation in the low-risk food establishment inspection, Pneumonia. Over 1,000 doses of flu vaccine Region 4B. During the last six years hazardous materials facility inspections, were administered by the public health Watertown has developed an emergency and emergency preparedness work. The nurse and Medical Reserve Corps volun- preparedness plan that includes, but is not internship program is an ongoing initiative teers. In addition, a total of over 4,490 limited to, Infectious Disease Emergency in the Health Department. doses of Influenza vaccine were distributed Plan, Emergency Dispensing Site (EDS) to local medical providers. Plan, Animal Disaster Plan, Local Emer- Community Health gency Network Plan (LENS), Radiological Response Plan, Isolation and Quarantine Communicable Diseases Plan, a Risk Communication Plan, a Communicable diseases are reported to Continuity of Operation Plan (CoOP) and “the State Department of Public Health as a Mutual Aid Agreement (MAA). required by law. Regulations released in February 2004 contained 77 reportable Watertown’s fifth EDS-based regional flu diseases, including Influenza, SARS, Small- clinic was conducted in the city of Belmont pox and Monkeypox. In the year of 2008, in December of 2008. This clinic was con- there were 134 cases reported. The follow- ducted to practice a regional emergency ing chart shows the incident rates for all response plan in order to test the feasibility diseases reported. Flu Clinic at Senior Center of regional/mass vaccinations. In 2008 significant time was expended on developing Watertown Health Officers received commu- a plan to service special populations in the nicable disease lab reports from Department event of a man-made or natural disaster. of Public Health and other clinical-based Special populations are groups of citizens laboratories. The standard procedure that are deemed to have one or more barri- requires that the Health Officers conduct ers to emergency preparedness planning. phone interviews to complete case reports. The information collected is used in the sur- Town emergency preparedness plans veillance, control and prevention of disease. include emergency evacuation routes, family emergency plans, local emergency Communicable Diseases in 2008 planning committee and debris management plans. The Health Department’s emergency preparedness plans are part of the Town’s Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan.

Viral Meningitis

84 Vaccine Distribution Program Tobacco Control Total Money Received for 2008 As of June 23, 2008, the Massachusetts In the spring and summer of 2008, the January $ 6,661.43 Department of Public Health (MDPH) tran- Health Department continued its tobacco February 9,641.31 sitioned to a national centralized vaccine compliance program to help reduce youth March 2,026.74 ordering and distribution system, Vaccine access to tobacco products and to enforce April 3,273.48 Management Business Improvement Project local smoking regulations when needed. May 11,675.00 (VMBIP). Before the transition to VMBIP, Currently three Health Department staff June 1,364.00 the Health Department served as a vaccine members are trained to conduct tobacco July 1,215.00 depot for local health care providers. The compliance checks, provide training for August 1,750.00 Health Department distributed over 10,350 minors and permit holders, and to enforce September 7,880.24 doses of vaccine for children and adults the Youth Access to Tobacco regulations. October 10,046.40 to providers. The Health Department also maintains the November 8,465.00 Retail Data Management System (RDMS) December 12,882.93 Health Promotion provided by the Massachusetts Department Total $76,881.53 of Public Health that collects and analyzes Over the fall and winter months of 2008, the Total Permits Issued for 2008 Watertown Health Department developed a the data from the compliance checks. Food Service 119 monthly seminar for seniors in Watertown Between January and August of 2008 two Retail Food 46 entitled the Elder Wellness and Awareness rounds of tobacco compliance checks were Caterers 9 Program to promote healthy choices. The conducted which entailed a minor entering a One-Day Catering 304 program focuses on four topics: promoting permitted establishment in an attempt to buy Swimming Pools/Whirlpools 20 oral health, preventing falls, nutrition on a a tobacco product. In total, there were 84 Massage Practitioners 0 budget, and emergency preparedness. This completed checks with only four sales. The Massage Establishments 0 program allowed seniors to socialize, violators were issued a non-criminal ticket Mobil Foodservice 8 receive an oral health screen, information and were educated concerning Watertown’s Funeral Directors 14 on fall prevention, healthy eating, and an Youth Access Regulations including how to Rabies Clinic 50 emergency evacuation kit. Traditional blood check for proper identification. Bakery 7 pressure clinics were held at the Watertown Group Homes 8 Mall from 10 am to 12 noon on the first In June 2008, Sarah McClogan, Tobacco Tanning 3 Friday of each month. The clinic provided Control Director with the Massachusetts Motel 1 blood pressure monitoring and related Health Officers Association, came to Tobacco 42 health education to the patrons. Watertown and in conjunction with the Hazardous Material Facility 4 Health Department provided a training to Body Art Establishment 2 some of the tobacco permitted establish- Watertown Task Force Body Art Practitioners 8 The Health Department assisted residents ments educating them about the impor- who needed help in resolving public tance of the Youth Access Regulations, the health/medical-related issues. The Health tobacco regulations, and tips for checking *Special thanks to Mark Waksmonski, Department’s inter-departmental task force identifications. Sanitarian, Karen O’Reilly, Animal Control Officer/Jr. Sanitarian, Kristel continued to address the needs of residents In the year of 2008, the Health Department Bennett, Chief Environmental Health in crisis. The task force included members received no complaints regarding Smoking Officer, and Maria Chiavelli, Head Clerk, from the Police, Fire, School and Health in the Workplace. Departments, Council on Aging, Food for collecting data, formatting and craft- ing this report. Pantry, Veterans Office, Housing Authority, Tobacco Control Statistics 2008 Edinburgh Center for Mental Health, and Number of Permitted Establishments 43 Mt. Auburn Hospital Social Services. Compliance Checks (Rounds) 2 Departments continued to collaborate into Total of Completed Compliance Checks 86 2009 to provide needed services for Number of Violations 4 (1 Warning) Watertown residents.

85 Council on Aging

Safety, Support, and Socialization

Accomplishments and Director Caryl Fox participated in the Senior Center’s art and computer classes, Challenges Emergency Assistance Task Force organized book club, knitting, card, and bingo groups through the Watertown Community are offered to help seniors stay mentally Seniors taking the Shuttle Bus to local Foundation. This group brought together sharp. Lectures offered this year included supermarkets for grocery and other shop- various organizations that provide some legal, financial, health, safety, and cultural ping now have a more secure ride due to emergency funding to Watertown residents. issues. Debbie Dunn provided supervision the installation of seat belts in the vehicle. Ms. Fox and Program Coordinator, Kathleen on our monthly day trips, as well as coordi- This transportation service, which is utilized Wolf, also attended meetings of the newly nating the financial and other complex by some of the more frail Watertown citi- configured Watertown Emergency tasks involved in managing the COA office. zens, helps people to remain in their own Management Coalition. A report on pre- homes and stay independent. The Watertown Food Pantry, which is under paredness within the COA department was the administrative oversight of the COA, In 2008, the Senior Center building presented at the October meeting. served an increased number of Watertown received a new coat of paint throughout the COA Case Worker Laura Gold advocated for individuals, including more adults who had interior and an enhanced air-conditioning seniors in the community by directing indi- been laid off from their jobs. Deb Kaup, system was installed. viduals to appropriate services and working the Food Pantry Coordinator, serves the The COA (Council on Aging) partnered with outside agencies and other Town Watertown community with sensitivity and with the Watertown Savings Bank for two departments. She also provided emotional tact. Both the Food Pantry and the COA major lectures this year. In May, the topic support to elders and their families through depend on volunteers to help with the many was “Aging in Place” and in November, a home visits and phone contact. The SHINE responsibilities involved in both programs. speaker from the Alzheimer’s Association (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elderly) In these challenging times, the COA/Senior spoke on “Maintaining Your Brain.” The worker counseled people on health insur- Center remains committed to assisting Watertown Savings Bank also donated ance choices. Income tax and legal assis- Watertown’s older adults with opportunities money to the Senior Center’s Holiday Party. tance was available as well as monthly blood to obtain a high quality of life and active pressure, hearing, and dental screenings. The COA was awarded an increased amount participation in the life of the community. from the Marshall Home Foundation for the Ongoing classes were offered in exercise, Emergency Taxi Program. This project tai chi, yoga, line dancing, and weight allows seniors to get rides on short notice watching. Evidence conducted through to physician’s offices and other important research continues to show the importance destinations. A grant from the Massachu- of physical activity in remaining healthy. setts Cultural Council provided special Mental stimulation is also a key in main- musical entertainment for St. Patrick’s Day. taining quality of life as one ages. The

Retiring Board member Barbara Zenn Rediker is presented with the Lucy Nargosian Community Service Award by COA/Senior Center Director Caryl Fox

86 Seniors enjoy a musical entertainment presentation funded through Seniors gather to socialize before class a grant from the Watertown Cultural Council

87 Recreation Department

Organization Disney’s on Ice “Mickey & Minnie’s Magical to have clinics for the youngsters who par- The function of the Watertown Recreation Journey” and “High School Musical” and ticipate in our programs. “Harlem Globe Trotters” at the TD Banknorth Department is to provide a year-round This department continues to attempt to Garden. We obtained Pawtucket Red Sox recreation program for the citizens of make the citizens more aware of one of the tickets for two June Sunday games at McCoy Watertown. It is the goal of this department Town’s most valuable assets, Arsenal Park. Field. The department sold 100 tickets to the that all citizens have the opportunity to Our Pre-K Sports Program was held at the new edition of “Ringling Bros. Barnum & enjoy their leisure time with enjoyable Arsenal Park late spring through early Bailey Circus, Bellobration.” activities in a safe environment. fall. Working with the Watertown Youth In November Ernest Thebado was appointed The department conducted Vacation Drop-In Soccer Director, we scheduled many of as the Assistant Director of Recreation. This Gym Programs during December, February their 6 versus 6 and 8 versus 8 games at the appointment along with the Director and and April school breaks. We provided two park. Working with the Watertown Police Head Clerk brings the full-time staff of the interactive entertainment shows for the Department, a Street Hockey Program for department to three. Part-time and seasonal youngsters during the February program. middle school age youngsters was conducted at Arsenal Park. The Recreation employees are hired to instruct and super- The Recreation Department’s Pre-K Sports Department’s Adult Tennis Lessons and our vise the various programs of the department Program was also expanded with sessions new Teenage Tennis Lessons were held at during the year. in the winter, spring, summer and fall. The Arsenal Park, thus exposing the park to winter sessions were held at the Watertown hundreds of the Town’s citizens. We added New Department Initiatives Boys & Girls Club. This summer’s session a Fall Tennis program for grades two and Expansions was a combination of sports and arts & through eight at Victory Field courts. The Recreation Department, the Department crafts. A girls Softball League was expanded of Community Development, Purchasing to include 8th graders this spring. The The Recreation Department has taken Department, DPW, and School Department league consisted of six teams and over advantage of the newly developed Watertown worked on plans and designs for Victory 70 girls. The department expanded the website, www.watertown-ma.gov, to increase Field. The project would include a synthetic girls softball program to four weeks into communication and accessibility to our pro- grass surface for the baseball and football the summer months. The Recreation grams, applications, permits and features of field. New baseball dugouts, backstop, bat- Department thanks the many volunteer each facility for our residents. We have also ting cage, stands and bullpens would be coaches who made this softball league set up a database of 2,300 students and part of the project. possible. We also added a girls fall basket- 140 special-needs participants in order ball clinic at the Hosmer east gymnasium. to contact or communicate by e-mail or The department continues to run family trips Two of the Watertown High School varsity regular mail. to “The Big Apple Circus” at City Hall Plaza, coaches coordinated with our department

Saturday morning gym hockey 2008 I Summer Pre-K Sports 2008

88 2008 Programming conducted various programs for our special- eight. A Girls’ Softball League was held for needs population. Programs for the special youngsters in grades three to eight. Adult Winter citizens of the Town included bowling, bas- Lessons for tennis were also conducted this ketball, swimming, Friday past year at the Arsenal Park. During the night socials and floor spring the department continued its pro- hockey. A Saturday Night gramming for the special citizens of the Skiing/Boarding Program Town. The department also issued permits was held at Wachusett for use of the Town’s playing fields and pic- Mountain, in which 39 nic areas. Recreation offered Wednesday middle and high school matinee tickets to “The Big Apple Circus” students participated for at City Hall Plaza, Boston. The department six consecutive weeks. In offered tickets to the “Harlem Globe- conjuction with the WHS trotters” at the TD Banknorth Garden. We girls varsity ice hockey also offered group rate tickets to “David coach, Stephen Russo, we Copperfield” at the Opera House in Boston. held Sunday afternoon ice 2008 Wachusett Mountain Ski/Board Program hockey clinics for 12 weeks. Summer

With the arrival of winter comes a wide Spring range of basketball programs for the citizens of the Town. Kids Just Love Crafts, an arts & crafts program for 2- to 4-year-olds, was held once again at the Watertown Boys & Girls Club. Also this winter, the Recreation Department expanded its Pre-K Sports Program to include a third winter July 4th Celebration 2008 session. This program included soccer and “T” ball and was also held on Mondays and Thursdays at the Boys & Girls Club. The department’s Elementary School Basketball Program held practices at the Cunniff, Lowell and Hosmer Schools during the week. A floor hockey program was also played at the Hosmer School for youngsters in grades two to eight. Also middle school youngsters participated in a Friday Night Summer Pre-K Sports 2008 Open Gym and Sunday In-Town Basketball Spring Pre-K Sports 2008 Program at the Kelley Gym at Watertown The department conducted a Summer High School. On Sunday nights we had an During the spring, the department con- Playground Program at the Arsenal, Bemis, Over-35 Basketball Program. A Sunday ducted a wide range of programs for the Filippello and Victory Field Parks. The activ- morning drop-in basketball program for citizens of Watertown. Spring Programs ities on the playgrounds included arts & adults was once again run at the middle included Pre-K Sports, “T” Ball for young- crafts, baseball, basketball, tennis, track school this winter. Baton Classes for youngsters in grades kindergarten to first and & field, softball, rag ball, whiffleball and sters were held at the Cunniff School on Ragball for children in grades two and more. Playground Field Trips were taken to Tuesday evenings that culminate with three. Baton classes were held at the various locations in Greater Boston. Youth Fall and Spring Recitals at the Hosmer Cunniff School for children ages 4 to 14. Tennis Lessons were given at the Mary Auditorium. We have a new baton instructor, This program culminated with a recital at Williams Tennis Courts at Victory Field with Tracey Gangi Johnson. Ms. Johnson has 20 the Hosmer School Auditorium and partici- over 100 children taking part. Watertown’s years’ experience teaching Baton Twirling pation in the annual Memorial Day Parade. Annual Little League All-Star Baseball from elementary school to the college level. Also during the April school vacation, a Games take place on Independence Day at The Watertown Recreation Department in sports program was held at the middle O’Connell Field. The celebration follows conjunction with its counterpart in Belmont school for youngsters from grades two to with a barbeque, games, races and prizes.

89 This is a fun family event. We added an Fall Revenues and additional summer girls softball program Other Activities and an evening Teen Tennis Program. In Revenues from programs and other sources addition, we coordinated efforts with the totaled over $163,125.77. These monies WHS Girls Varsity Soccer coach, Stacey were used to fund many of the department’s Marino, to conduct an evening clinic for programs. The income from permits to use two weeks at Moxley Field in July. Arsenal Park in 2008 totaled $30,226. For the 40th year, Pequossette Summer Permit and picnic fees for the other parks Recreation Program was an integral part in town totaled $14,921. of this summer activities for the youth of Flag-Tag Football Grades 4–5 2008 The department worked with many groups Watertown. The camp runs four two-week and individuals to arrange for field use sessions for youngsters ages 4 to 14. On Flag-tag football, soccer, mini-basketball throughout the Town during 2008. Over average there were 180 campers at each and field hockey programs were offered to 2,200 park permits were issued to groups session. The daily activities include music, elementary school students this past fall. such as Watertown Youth Soccer, Watertown arts & crafts, playground games, sports, Drop-In Gym Programs were held at the Youth Baseball, Watertown Babe Ruth ping-pong, foosball and gym play. The Watertown Middle School on Friday Baseball, Watertown Pop Warner Football, youngsters also went to the state’s Dealtry evenings for the students in grades six Watertown Senior Babe Ruth Baseball, the Pool to swim and cool off, to Arsenal Park through twelve, and also adults. Two Pre-K Watertown School Department, Watertown for cookouts and the sprinkler, and other Sports Programs were conducted as part of Men’s Softball League, Over-Forty Baseball varied field trips. There were camp sleep- our fall programming. This program intro- League and Watertown Inter-City Team. overs for the older children; one of which duced ages three- to five year-old children Permits were also issued to many church was held on the grounds of the Watertown to “T” ball and soccer. Programs for our groups, Scout groups, civic organizations, Middle School. Family Nights and Talent special-needs population were also con- businesses and residents so they could Shows also added to the summer entertain- ducted during this time of year. The activi- schedule activities at the Town’s parks. ment of many of the Town’s residents. ties included socials, field trips and many The department also issued hundreds of The department owes a special thanks sports. The fall Baton session commenced permits for picnics and parties at Arsenal to the Watertown School Committee for in October and ended with a recital before and Filippello Parks, as many people enjoy its support of the Pequossette Summer the holidays. Our 2nd and 3rd after-school the beautiful grounds of these two areas. Recreation Program. basketball program at each of the elementary schools had 125 students participating. The Watertown Recreation Department Summer Basketball Leagues were run for We added a fourth afternoon to accommo- would like to thank all the Town Depart- children and adults at many of the Town’s date the enrollment. This past fall some ments for their assistance over the past courts. The youth portion of the program 40 youngsters and adults signed up for a year. Without their help and that of many included both instruction and games, while six-week ski/riding program at Wachusett of our fine citizens, we would not be able the adult leagues produced many highly Mountain slopes. The department pro- to provide the Town’s people with anything competitive contests. Hundreds of people vided 100 group rate tickets to “Ringling near the programs they deserve. We would participated in the program as players Bros. Barnum & Bailey Circus” at the TD also like to thank the Town Council and and/or spectators. Banknorth Garden. We had 30 girls partici- the Town Manager for their support of the pate in our Basketball Clinic on Friday many Capital Projects that have been com- evenings for five weeks. Recreation held pleted and those in the planning stages. an after-school youth fall tennis program These projects will greatly enhance our at Victory Field tennis for elementary Town parks and make Watertown a better school children. place to live and play. Respectfully submitted, Thomas J. Sullivan Director of Recreation

90 Library

Mission Statement New Initiatives and personal immigrant experiences. Each Watertown Free Public Library fulfills the Highlights included: program was well attended and audiences informational, cultural, and recreational requested that this become an annual pro- • Computer classes for adults needs of the community by providing gram. Other programs included a poetry access to a wide variety of popular and ref- • New museum passes reading by Rosamond Rosemeier and erence materials, resources, services, and • New time management system for author talks by William Martin, Allen programs that extend their personal and public computers Hunter, Sean Murphy, and Kathleen Spivack. Home delivery service continues on an intellectual development and that reflect • Youth Access grant from the Board of ongoing basis for our homebound patrons the Town’s cultural and ethnic diversity. The Library Commissioners staff works to create an environment which – 669 books were delivered this year. • Bilezikian Family Foundation grant for welcomes and satisfies the needs of users Children’s Room play area The Young Adult Department continued of all ages and abilities, and works actively to host many successful programs such as to attract new users to the library. • Instrumental in creation of a map of Watertown resources in multiple T-shirt silk screening, making candy sushi, languages Monday movie nights, and videogame tour- Year in Review naments. A joint program with the Police As you will see throughout this report, • Three additional laptops added to Department that offered evening activities the popularity of the library continues to loan program was also popular. The teen materials collec- increase. Highlights of the year included Departments tion was expanded this year with the addition the first-ever One Book One Watertown of vocational technical career resources. The Adult Department spent significant program, several talks by authors, a film time on website improvement in 2008 series, and many successful programs for The Children’s Department provided with the goal of making the site as useful as children and teens. A local artist, Karina high quality programming throughout the possible. Organization of the local history Kadiyska, donated a beautiful sculpture of a year for children and their parents and room is an ongoing project, in conjunction woman reading to the library. In the spring, caregivers. Nine thousand, nine hundred with updates to our local history page on a survey was distributed with quarterly tax and fifty-three people attended 278 the website. The three book discussion bills and made available on the library web- programs this year. New programs this year groups are going strong as is the weekly site. By the end of April over 850 responses included two baby lapsits per month, a writers’ group. The highlight of the year were received. The results clearly showed “My Movie Time” program once a month was the wildly successful One Book One a high level of satisfaction with library that features a new release movie for parents Watertown program in which the commu- services, collections, building, and staff. and caregivers of small children, and nity was encouraged to read The Namesake The survey comments were analyzed and a special summer reading program geared by Jhumpa Lahiri. Several programs were many suggestions have been implemented, toward “tweens.” Grants from the Board of held to encourage discussion of the book including updating of the web page, expan- Library Commissioners and the Bilezikian sion of the fiction collection, and more copies of popular DVDs. The library staff, administration and Trustees appreciate the support of the citizens, Town Manager, and Town Council as we continually strive to meet the needs of the community.

The Teen Advisory Board co-sponsored a showing of the movie Invisible Children, which tells the plight of child soldiers in Uganda

91 Personnel For professional development and to learn new skills and talents, the WFPL staff attended many workshops, trainings, and conferences. These included sessions on Programming for Children with Special Needs, Diversity in the Workplace, matching Young Adults with Books, and several staff participated in a Public Library Association videoconfer- ence. Librarians attended professional conferences sponsored by the Massachu- setts Library Association and the American Library Association Conference.

Debbie and Friends perform in the Watertown Savings Bank Room Staff served on various professional and community committees, the Town’s Faire Family Foundation made it possible to offer Trustees on the Square Committee and several programs for tweens and to develop a play The entire Town of Watertown mourned the Minuteman Library Network committees. area for young children. passing of Trustee Chair and pillar of the Personnel changes occurred in the follow- The Project Literacy Department received community, Lucia Mastrangelo, in February ing departments: an award of $5,000 from Watertown/Harvard 2008. Ms. Mastrangelo was instrumental and Watertown/O’Neill Properties Community in the fundraising and building of the new Administration Enrichment Fund and $1,500 from the library. The Trustees voted to name the Kelly Lanefski was hired as Watertown Community Foundation to run a upstairs meeting room in her honor. Head Clerk/Confidential Secretary. Following the passage of special legislation year-long class for immigrants entitled For Adult Department a search for her replacement was done, Your Health, and a $2,500 grant from the Dea DelCampo was hired as webmaster. Watertown Community Foundation for a citi- and in August the Trustees and Town zenship class. Other donations included Council President chose Anna Kuwabara Children’s Department $400 from the Watertown Savings Bank and to fill the vacancy. Mary Clare-Cavanagh resigned. Caitlin Browne transferred from the Circulation $2,500 from a volunteer tutor’s husband in The Trustees hosted a volunteer apprecia- Department to take her place. honor of his wife. Staff collaborated with tion reception in October to honor the The World in Watertown, the Parent Child many volunteers who donate their time and Circulation Home Program and the Watertown Police efforts to improve the library. Caitlin Browne transferred to the Department in creating a map of Watertown Children’s Department. Janet Brogan was with resources described in English and hired to take her place. Peter Norman five other languages. English for Speakers of resigned. Christopher Bayko was hired Other Languages (ESOL) classes were held to take his place. Loretta Gentile retired. for 32 weeks of the year. One hundred and Joel Reader was hired to take her place. twenty students attended these six classes. Technical Services Clayton Cheever resigned. Anna Enos was hired to take his place.

Students and teacher in a computer class

92 Statistics Attendance at Programs: Number of Items added to the collection: Department Programs Attendance Books 12,342 Sound Recordings 1,694 Adult 83 858 Videos/DVDs 2,771 Children’s 354 9,953 CD-ROM/Video games 265 Young Adult 88 1,504 TOTAL: 17,072 Project Literacy 36 858 Circulation: TOTAL: 552 13,173 Adult and Young Adult 390,036 Children’s 192,142 Volunteer Hours: TOTAL CIRCULATION: 582,178 Adult 994.0 Children’s 118.5 Reference Questions Answered Young Adult 180.0 in person, via telephone, and e-mail: Project Literacy 7,000.0 Adult 20,231 TOTAL: 8,292.5 Children’s 16,647 Young Adult 10,095 Project Literacy 1,022 TOTAL: 47,995

93 Veterans’ Services

“Remembering All of Our Veterans During Wartime”

In 2008, the Veterans’ Services Department • Screened veterans with service-connected Events continued to assist an ever-increasing disabilities and dependents to determine number of veterans and dependents due to eligibility for property tax abatement January: many factors. The World War II, Korean under MGL 59, section 5, clause 22a–22e • Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1105 War, Vietnam War and Desert Storm veter- • Assisted in enrolling eligible veterans annual “Walk for Homeless Veterans” ans are aging along with their spouses, and dependents in Social Security, at the Arsenal Mall resulting in an increase in the number Social Security Disability (SSD) and February: of veterans and dependents requesting Supplemental Security Income services. These services were financial, • Worked with Debby Smith, elderly • For prescription payment relief, assisted medical, employment, housing, and educa- services program coordinator at Perkins in enrolling veterans in the state tional, to name a few. Additionally, the School for the Blind, in providing Prescription Advantage program Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation veteran speakers Enduring Freedom veterans are returning • Made education Montgomery GI Bill home and requesting the same. referrals to state colleges • Helped veterans with job search Assistance Provided assistance in conjunction with the state • Assisted returning Iraq and Afghanistan Department of Employment & Training veterans in applying for the full range of • Transported veterans to VA hospitals state and federal programs they are now and clinics entitled to, including the Massachusetts • Held monthly Veteran’s Council meetings wartime bonus • Ordered grave markers for deceased • Enrolled veterans in the health system of veterans the Veterans Administration • Worked with Watertown Housing • Assisted veterans in submitting Authority to assist eligible veterans in paperwork to receive service-connected obtaining Town housing March: disability and pension benefits from the • Enrolled hospice-care veterans in • Continued to provide speakers for the Veterans Administration & DVS VA nursing homes and assisted living Perkins veteran lecture program • Worked with widows of veterans to apply facilities • Assisted Kristine Zarifian, Watertown for Dependents Indemnity Compensa- • Continued the World War II & Korean resident and Regis College student, in tion(DIC) and widow’s pension War monthly support group meeting interviewing veterans for a school • Enrolled eligible veterans and with the VA project dependents in state Mass General Law 115 benefits, which includes financial assistance for needy veterans, spouses, and children • Assisted those eligible in applying for state-funded annuities for 100% service- connected disabled veterans, and widows and parents of killed-in-action • Obtained burial financial assistance for indigent veterans to ensure proper burials, also assisted with funerals for many veterans

94 April: June: November: • Attended an awards presentation at • Attended the annual Massachusetts Veterans Day activities at AMVETS Post 41 AMVETS Post 41 honoring the Veterans’ Service Officers Conference in Homenetmen Boys and Girls Scouts for Sturbridge and made two presentations the good works that they perform to conference attendees

December: May: September: • Worked with the Watertown Police • Memorial Day activities: visited schools, • Worked with the committee in Department and the Shutt Marine placed wreaths, parade coordinating the Patriot Day 2008 Detachment to distribute toys to • Took Pearl Harbor veteran and Observance needy families Watertown resident Christopher Hursh to Boston to meet Philippe Cousteau, grandson of Jacques Cousteau, whom Mr. Hursh had worked with at Pearl Harbor in the development of SCUBA diving equipment • Worked with Kraig Gustafson at Watertown High School in having students interview veterans for a school project • Attended an AMVETS Post 41 dinner to honor veterans from the Bedford, MA Veterans Administration Hospital

95 John A. Ryan Skating Arena

The John A. Ryan Arena, located at 1 The Arena is also the home to Bentley Association (MIAA) for high school state Paramount Place, continues to provide the College, Trinity Catholic High School and tournament ice hockey games. The MIAA residents of Watertown and area communi- Newton South High School. Bentley College, has once again shown the confidence in the ties the opportunity to provide ice skating a Division 1 college hockey program, staff of the arena to host these highly com- and hockey programs to their constituents. competes in the NCAA’s Atlantic Hockey petitive games. We look forward to contin- The Arena is the home to many local program. During their past season, Bentley ued success and co-operation with the groups. In Watertown, the Arena is the was ranked near the top of the standings in MIAA in being a part of their tournaments proud home of the Watertown High School their league. Both Trinity Catholic and for the years to come. Boys and Girls hockey teams. The boys Newton South High School play all of their From an internal perspective, the Town team, under the guidance of Watertown home games at the John A. Ryan Arena. continues to support the Arena’s constant High School graduate John Campbell, com- The Arena also hosts the highly competitive efforts to improve the facility in terms of petes in the very competitive Middlesex Catholic Central Junior Varsity Hockey capital improvements. This season’s League. The girls team, under the guidance League. This league has participants from improvements included new locker room of Watertown High School graduate Steve Arlington Catholic, Austin Prep, Arlington, benches in two of our changing rooms and Russo, continues to grow its program. In Archbishop Williams High School, Chelms- the updating of our plumbing and heating 2008, they have continued with Melrose ford, Lincoln-Sudbury, Reading Memorial system. Annual tasks included painting of High School to form a co-operative team High School, St. John’s Preparatory, St. all common areas and the improvements of that now is proud to support a fully sched- John’s Shrewsbury, St. Peter’s Marian, several old pumps in the heating system. uled JV team. 2008 also marked the contin- St. Mary’s High School, and Waltham High ued growth of the Watertown Middle During this year, the John A. Ryan Arena School. This year the Catholic Central Junior School hockey program. Under the tutelage focused on energy reductions. Both myself Varsity League welcomed Bishop Guertin of Coach John Sorabella, the team now and Assistant Owen Jones attended a semi- from Nashua, New Hampshire to the league. sports both an A and a B team that com- nar entitled “Going Green,” presented by The league plays its games on Sunday petes with other middle schools in the area. the North East Ice Skating Manager’s mornings during the high school winter 2008 also marked an additional team from Association. This seminar highlighted ways sports season. the Watertown Public Schools – a girls that our facility could work to make our middle school team. Led by Watertown Other local youth hockey groups that building more energy efficient. High graduate Andrea Ciarletta, the middle benefit from their programs using the • Installation of Motion Sensors in all school girls team debuted in 2008 John A. Ryan Arena are the Belmont non-common areas (team rooms and Youth Hockey, Newton Youth Hockey, and The Watertown Youth Hockey program is restrooms) to ensure lights being turned Waltham Youth Hockey Leagues. This year, also based out of the John A. Ryan Arena. off when not in use the Arena welcomed the Middlesex Girls Under the guidance of newly elected Yankee Conference as well as the Valley • Installation of Water Control Timer for President Jay Hughes, the program contin- Youth Hockey League. Both of these leagues Zamboni to ensure both the limitation ues to grow, offering something for the very provide games for many area teams includ- of actual water usage and wasted energy young in Learn-To-Skate, and a full-scale ing teams from Watertown Youth Hockey. of heating of the hot water Midget program for high school aged • Adjustment of ice temperatures with players. The annual Ciulla Tournament, The Arena continues to offer public skating compressors, saving on energy during named after former Watertown Youth on the weekends as well as offering skating downtimes at the rink Hockey President Tony Ciulla, was held lessons during the Sunday afternoon public on Thanksgiving weekend, attracting teams skating sessions. Under the direction of • Increased focus on “lights out” during from as far west as Westfield and as far Oksana Olenina, four-time Russian national downtimes at the rink to conserve south as Plymouth. This year, a newly precision skating champion, these lessons on energy formed youth hockey pilot program, aided grew in popularity as the season progressed. This year, our partnerships with our by Massachusetts Hockey, was launched for skate shop and concession vendors have the purpose of giving new opportunities to Once again, the highlight of the season con- continued to assist the many patrons of the the young members of the community to tinues to be the selection of a host site by facility. Under the ownership of proprietor play ice hockey. the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Robert Bergeron, the Clean Edge Skate

96 service provides Watertown residents and by Watertown resident and head ice hockey The 2008 season was once again a very many others from surrounding communi- coach Jerry York. busy season at the John A. Ryan Arena. ties the opportunity to have their skates With the vision to continue to provide the Looking forward to the future, the John A. serviced and purchase several needed items community with a first class facility, the Ryan Arena will look to increase off-peak on a daily basis. In the Concession Stand, staff looks forward to serving all of its programming in the form of public skating Frederick Walker has again been open patrons in 2009. and skating lessons for the younger chil- offering snacks and refreshments to the dren of the community. The John A. Ryan Respectfully submitted, patrons of the John A. Ryan Arena. Arena serves the Town of Watertown and its Daniel F. Brothers, Skating Rink Director Once again, we were pleased to have the surrounding communities by providing a John A. Ryan Arena Boston College Men’s Ice Hockey team top-notch and safe facility. The staff looks skate here at the John A. Ryan Arena. forward to serving the community and its Celebrating their 2008 NCAA Division 1 needs in the future. college championship, the Eagles are led

97 Department of Public Works

Departmental Overview Forestry Parks The Forestry division handles the pruning The Parks division handles all maintenance Administration and maintenance of our urban forest. In needs at 88 acres of Town grounds, parks The office staff handles public relations and 2008, the division removed 120 street and recreational facilities configured in 12 information, permits, departmental payroll, trees, 29 necessitated by storm damage and baseball fields, seven soccer fields, one purchasing, invoicing, accounting, water accidents. In November, three large silver field hockey field, one football field and and sewer billing, commercial trash collec- Maple trees were removed from the front two water parks, including picnic tables, tion billing, cemetery records, funding yard of the Lowell School due to safety con- cookout grills and public rest rooms. The issues surrounding all construction concerns generated by decay in the trees. Over division interfaces with all groups using tracts and interface with state and federal 131 trees were trimmed and 106 stumps facilities, and accordingly marks playing agencies. Administrative staff also maintains removed. In 2008, 167 trees were planted grounds for all baseball, football, field communications with the Town’s contractor with the assistance of the Tree Warden. hockey and soccer games played by high providing residential trash removal, and school, Recreation Department and youth Forestry also received a new tree chipper in handles public relations, data collection and groups in spring and fall. analysis, and State reporting requirements the spring. The Department chips take regarding trash collection and recycling. downs on location and Christmas trees The division uses the services of outside placed curbside in January. contractors to assist in parks maintenance Cemetery and turf maintenance. Highway The Cemetery division is responsible for In cooperation with the Recreation maintenance of over 30 acres of cemetery The Highway division is responsible for Department, 40,000 square feet of new sod at three separate locations, sale of grave maintenance and repair of approximately were placed in the Arsenal Park. plots, preparation of graves, and oversight 72 miles of Town roadway and 144 miles of of funerals at Town cemeteries. Town sidewalk, maintenance and repair of The Department was again fortunate to paved areas abutting or contained within have the assistance of students in the sum- In 2008, the division handled 125 inter- Town facilities, and review and issuance of mer of 2008. Students worked in the areas ments and 16 cremations. Twenty-nine relevant permits. of parks, cemeteries, forestry and highway. graves were sold for immediate use. Sixteen flush markers were placed. During 2008, the staff placed 816 tons of Water, Sewer and Drain asphalt to repair potholes, installed 645.18 In 2008, the staff performed 30 house serv- cubic yards of screened loam throughout Central Motors ice water renewals, repaired 34 house line the Town, hauled approximately 2,850 The staff maintains and repairs vehicles for service leaks, 9 water main breaks, cubic yards of organic material to a facility nine divisions, Town inspectors and admin- replaced 13 fire hydrants, serviced 96 fire for appropriate recycling, hauled another istrative staff. Vehicles range from light hydrants for minor maintenance following 4,202 tons of solid fill to appropriate plants pick-up trucks to heavy dump trucks and the annual flushing program, serviced 149 for asphalt and concrete recycling, installed related construction equipment. hydrants for minor maintenance following over 6,000 linear feet of information con- inspection by the Fire Department, replaced During 2008, the Department purchased a duit for the new police station, regraded 2 main gate valves, installed 4 new gate 2008 International ten-wheel dump truck the embankment and parking lot on valves, repaired 6 storm drain lines, rebuilt for use by the Highway Division, a 2008 Howard Street, and cleared trees, brush 90 catch basins, responded to 111 house International ten-wheel vactor truck for use and stumps in the area of the parking lot. line sewer backups and 96 main line back- by the Water and Sewer divisions and a The division also installed 47 bicycle racks, ups, repaired 13 sewer lines, including 2008 asphalt hot box for use by the 37 post-and-ring and 10 U-shaped racks, repairs on two sewer mains, repaired 11 Highway Division. in conjunction with a reimbursement pro- sewer laterals, rebuilt 14 manholes and gram from the Metropolitan Area Planning cleaned 1,271 catch basins. Council. Staff also performed the annual six-week Contract Work program of hydrant and water main flush- Work was concluded on one sidewalk con- ing and conducted weekly drinking water tract and initiated on another. More than quality sampling, entailing more than 520 $900,000 of repairs were performed at samples over the course of the year, locations across Town. inspected and sampled river outfalls for

98 quality of the Charles River, continued our Site Review Process Environment programs for television inspection of sewer Department staff conducted plan reviews, Having received grants from the Massa- and drain lines, conducted two annual inspections, and meetings with project pro- chusetts Department of Environmental rounds of sampling for lead in drinking ponents for major construction projects Protection, the Department held two highly water at residences and public and private within the Town. successful events for the sale of rain barrels schools, and continued our program of with total sales of 94 barrels. inspection of backflow prevention devices Recycling Members of the Environmental Committee in compliance with standards of the Recycling has been enjoying renewed inter- Massachusetts Department of Environ- were very busy in 2008. Members partici- est in both private and public domains. pated in meetings involving the design of mental Prevention. Staff also assisted work 2008 opened with the expansion of the on Howard Street by installing a drain line the new Police Station; continued work with Town’s curbside collection program to the School Department towards the replace- connecting the Bacon Street catch basins to include plastics 1–7 and paperboard. the Howard Street drainage line through ment lights in the high school gym with the parking lot. The Department of Public Works received a fixtures that will greatly reduce energy shed for mercury containing products in consumption. Members also worked on the With the assistance of grants and loans conjunction with the mercury diversion Solar Challenge, a program of the State of provided by the MWRA Local Financial program of the facility in North Andover Massachusetts funded through the Mass Assistance Program, cured in place pipe where the Town incinerates its trash. Items Technology Collaborative’s Clean Energy technology was used by outside contractors now accepted at the Department include Choice Program to educate the public on to replace a total of 3,111 linear feet of thermostats, thermometers, button cell clean renewable energy and to promote sewer on the Cottage Street trunk line and batteries and mercury switches. Digital investment in wind energy by offering a solar the sewer main on Spring Street. Under the thermometers are available for free in electric system to municipalities as a prize same program, 839 linear feet of sewer exchange for mercury thermometers. for participation. They solicited private con- main were replaced with new PVC pipe on Straight, circular, U-shaped and compact tributions to leverage a grant towards techni- Spring Street and the sewer siphon located fluorescent bulbs are being accepted at cal assistance for and purchase of solar at Crawford and Arlington Streets was Coolidge Hardware in cooperation with the panels for the High School. The committee relined and epoxy coated with several man- Town under the same program for mercury also researched the potential benefits for the holes on Spring Street and Cottage Street. diversion. Town to use an energy services consulting company (ESCO) vs. the hiring of an energy Water Billing The Department made a presentation on officer. Later in the year, the group learned After extensive preparations, quarterly recycling in municipal buildings to the about barn raising, a program where trained billing was initiated in January 2008. To senior staff in November. The School volunteers assist homeowners in making expedite and improve the process of read- Department has increased and begun to energy conservation improvements and ing twice the number of meters on a track the volume of its weekly recycling. began to plan towards initiating such a pro- monthly basis, the Department purchased a The Recycling Committee initiated work on gram in Watertown. With the cancellation of Mobile Collector, a device which boosts informational articles for publications in Faire on the Square due to weather con- radio frequency meter reading capacities. the local press. The first piece in what is cerns, the group began plans for an Energy Like its predecessor, the data pack, the planned as a series of articles was pub- Faire in February 2009 to replicate the green Mobile Collector is placed in a vehicle and lished in the fall. section of the Faire in the Square, which driven in the vicinity of the meters to be The sale of compost bins continued at an debuted at the 2007 Faire. Two presentations read. Readings are retrieved by radio fre- accelerated rate. were made to the Town Council on commit- quency from encoders installed on the tee activities. meters themselves. The Collector also Recycling center operations continue to incorporates GIS technology which enables operate on an interim basis in an area Personnel Corner the driver to see locations which have not abutting the former Recycling Center. As In 2008 Richard Bazarian and Belle Skuse sent back a reading and obtain a higher the Department continues to search for a retired from the Department. Mrs. Skuse rate of successful readings. permanent site to relocate the operations, had served the Department for an impres- collections continue successfully, with sive 34 years. Ken Sampson and Lori increased volumes over those collected in Moran joined our ranks in their respective the past. positions. Bob DeGeis joined the Sewer Division and Charlie Bonnano joined the Water Division.

99 Police Department

Bureau of Administrative better services to citizens who are experi- The Department continued to upgrade our Services encing a crisis due to mental health or radio infrastructure replacing outdated substance abuse issues. The Police Depart- and non-supported communications equip- In 2008, the Police Department received ment also continues to work very closely ment with new equipment that meets newer a grant from the Commonwealth of Massa- with Watertown’s Wayside Multi-Service FCC government guidelines and NEMLEC chusetts to continue implementation of our Center in order to meet the needs of our digital standards. successful Community Policing programs. juvenile citizens. These funds allow for a myriad of activities Detective Division to bring the citizens of Watertown and the During 2008, the Police Department contin- Police Department together for improving ued to fund its highly acclaimed and suc- The Detective Division is comprised of the the quality of life and combating crime. cessful Cops & Kids program at the middle Investigative Unit, Licensing Unit, Juvenile This grant is also providing funding for school and has begun to expand some pro- Unit, Domestic Violence Unit, Drug Unit our membership in the North Eastern grams to high school and elementary aged and the Prosecutor’s Unit. Members of the Middlesex Law Enforcement Council students. The Department also continued division investigated numerous crimes, (NEMLEC). This is a regional task force other successful programs at the middle initiated investigations, inspected licensed which provides a number of support serv- school, such as Girls with Goals, and premises and were involved in programs ices to combat criminal activities and continued our new American Red Cross for juveniles, the elderly, the business com- domestic or foreign terrorism. Our depart- Babysitting Course. The Department munity and the general public. ment provides support personnel for conducted its 22nd & 23rd Citizen Police The Domestic Violence Unit was established NEMLEC’s Rapid Response Team (RRT), Academies, several RAD (Rape Aggression in 1992 and investigates over 200 cases a SWAT, Dispatch, Motorcycle officers, Defense) programs and the Department year. Detective Kathleen Campbell was Computer and Criminal investigation. was instrumental in the continued opera- assigned as the Domestic Violence Officer tion of several programs conducted at the The Governor’s Highway and Safety Bureau in October of 2008. In addition, the unit Watertown High School including the granted the Watertown Police Department provides legal advice, support and assis- Fitness Gym and Law Class. During the a traffic enforcement grant to fund several tance to other agencies, with the emphasis spring of 2008, the Department also ran mobilizations, such as Click It or Ticket; being placed on the safety of the victim and its successful Police Athletic League. You Drink & Drive, You Lose; Road prosecution of the abuser. Respect; and Impaired Driving. The Watertown Police Department is now accredited by the Massachusetts Police Prosecuter’s Unit The Department received a State 911 Depart- Accreditation Commission. Currently there The Prosecutor’s Unit continued to work ment Training Grant. This grant allows the are only 27 law enforcement agencies effectively with the Middlesex County department to send our police/fire dispatch- out of almost 400 in Massachusetts that District Attorney’s Office. The Prosecutor’s ers to additional enhanced training. have achieved state certification or accredi- Unit handled over 800 cases in 2008. The Department continues its collaboration tation. This award is granted for a three- The Detective Division has continued to between the Police Department and the year period. The Department will seek work closely with other area departments, Edinburg Crisis Center in order to provide re-accreditation in December 2009. including Federal agencies in the area of

100 drugs, gaming, organized crime, sexual Licensing Unit and the Watertown Licensing Board. (Note: assault, financial crimes and firearms. Our In order to encourage cooperation between The totals are an estimate and may or may detectives attend monthly detective meetings the licensees of the City and the Police not reflect the accurate total numbers.) where they exchange information with area Department, with the intent to detect possi- The following licensed establishments were detectives. These meetings have provided ble violations of the laws and regulations served suspensions during 2008: us with valuable information on criminal governing licenses, members of this unit activity in our area and also have enabled conducted inspections of various licensed • The General Market had their license us to establish relationships with detectives establishments during both day- and night- suspended on December 20, 2007 until and agents from various departments. The time hours. Any irregularities observed March 1, 2008, when and if a proper NEMLEC detectives have set up an e-mail during these inspections were investigated transfer of the license is not completed, system where information is shared on a and appropriate action taken whenever it will be revoked daily basis. This tool has been exceptional deemed necessary. • General Market served a 3-Day in identifying suspects. The following is a report from the Detective Suspension on July 30, 31 and August 1, Throughout the year there was a continued Licensing Division for the year of 2008 2008 effort to scrutinize reported crimes. This relative to license applications. These appli- • Dyer Liquors served a 2-Day Suspension strategy revealed that many crimes that cations were submitted for investigation on August 6–7, 2008 were reported were unfounded or false and and report. The applications were gener- • Conley’s served a 2-Day Suspension on that many employees committed reported ated by the Police Department as well as July 5–6, 2008 commercial larcenies. submitted by the Town Manager’s Office In addition to their normal duties the division also conducted alcohol-related sweeps APPLICATIONS: Processed Approved Denied Susp/Rev aimed at curtailing teenage involvement in Firearm Applications such activity. Package stores, clubs, and License to Carry – CL A 57 55 0 0 restaurants were monitored and youths License to Carry – CL B 0 1 0 0 questioned as to proper identification. The FID CL C 12 11 0 0 success of these operations is a result of FID CL D 18 17 0 0 the educational efforts of this division Alien Permit - FID 5 5 0 0 directed towards the liquor establishments TOTAL 92 89 0 0 and the strong enforcement action by the Watertown Licensing Board. The division Alcohol Applications also participated in teaching several classes One-Day Permits 235 235 0 0 at the Watertown Citizen Police Academy. Sunday Closings 0 0 0 0 Detectives also spoke to numerous civic Special Closing Hours 11 10 1 0 organizations on the topic of identity fraud. TOTAL 246 245 1 0 Other Applications Personnel Changes Auctioneers Special 2 2 0 0 There were changes in personnel of the Block Party 18 18 0 0 Detective Division during 2008. Officer John Constable 0 0 0 0 Bartolomucci was assigned to the Detective Entertainment 0 0 0 0 Division to replace Detective Joseph Kelly Fair/Carnival 5 5 0 0 who returned to the Patrol Division after Hackney Carriage 40 37 2 1 ten years as a Detective. Sergeant Daniel Hackney Driver 107 97 9 1 Unsworth was assigned as the Detective Outdoor Concert 0 0 0 0 Sergeant to replace Sergeant William Logue Peddler 0 0 0 0 who was promoted to Lieutenant. Lieutenant Raffle & Bazaar 18 18 0 0 Logue returned to the Patrol Division after Road Race/Walk-A-Thon 4 4 0 0 serving nine years in Detectives. Solicitor 23 22 1 0 Tag Day 3 2 1 0 Texas Hold’em Tournament 2 2 0 0 TOTAL 222 207 13 2

101 Juvenile Unit This Department investigated over 298 Community and Staff During 2008, this Department had official domestic-related incidents, which resulted Development Division contact with 220 juveniles, for various inci- in the arrest of 98 individuals. This Depart- dents, with 12 arrested and 35 juveniles ment also received and processed approxi- Accreditation summonsed. mately 200 restraining orders during The Watertown Police Department contin- this year. ues to maintain its accreditation require- Detective David Collins has been the Depart- ments. Accreditation maintenance requires Detective Campbell monitors all domestic ment’s Juvenile Detective since 2001. The detailed documentation of training, reports related incidents and conducts follow-ups Juvenile Detective’s responsibilities include and compliance with issued policy and and contacts victims and defendants when conducting investigations involving juveniles procedures, constant policy review and necessary. Detective Campbell also attends and working with Juvenile Probation and the updates, and maintenance of the facility and round-table discussions at Waltham District Department of Social Services. He works as equipment, among many other require- Court on a monthly basis. These meetings a member of the Juvenile Encounter Team ments. The maintaining of accreditation are with representatives from the District (JET) which provides a positive working status is actually more challenging than the Attorney’s Office, victim-witness advocates relationship between the police, probation initial accreditation achievement. The initial and domestic violence officers from and the court system. This program is granting of accreditation is based mainly surrounding cities and towns. Detective designed to meet at-risk juveniles in their on the implementation of policies and pro- Campbell also publishes a domestic home, school or hangouts with the intent to cedures. Re-accreditation requires proof “Hot Spots” list in the weekly bulletin and give guidance, direction and encourage- that the agency not only implemented the through department e-mail, which keeps ment. The Juvenile officer also attends approved policies and procedures but officers updated with current domestic- monthly meetings of Community Based that the agency has been following and related issues in the Town. Justice (CBJ) which is a group meeting complying with the myriad of policies and sponsored by the Middlesex County District procedures implemented. Attorney’s Office, school officials and police Training officers. The purpose of these meetings is Detectives attended numerous training Department Training to share information involving juveniles courses throughout the year in specialized During the year 2008, most members of who are in violation of the law, probation areas of law enforcement. (including CHINS) or school rules that may the Watertown Police Department attended 24 hours of in-service training sessions affect them or others within the system. Investigations presented by the Massachusetts Criminal In 2002, we had the addition of two School In January 2008, Detectives made an arrest Justice Training Council. The in-service Resource Officers (SROs) to our Depart- in the Bank of America bank robbery that training program has a core curriculum ment. Currently Officer Sheila Grady-Duguay took place in November of 2007. consisting of criminal, motor vehicle and is assigned to the Middle School and Officer Detectives also made arrests in the bank constitutional law updates, first aid and Kenneth Swift is assigned to the High robberies at the Belmont Savings Bank and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) as School. These new positions have greatly the Watertown Savings Bank in 2008. well as other specialized current issues reduced the workload of the Juvenile facing law enforcement. Officer. These officers work in conjunction Our Detective division was also instrumen- with the Juvenile Officer on issues regarding tal in solving and identifying suspects in Firearm training and qualification courses juveniles. These officers continue to work numerous bank robbery investigations in were conducted for all Department mem- together on numerous cases in the school the greater Boston area. bers during the year in 2008. In the spring, and the results of this program have been all officers attended a field-training course extremely positive. The SROs have become Crime Scene Services at Ft. Devens, Ayer, MA, where all officers a tremendous resource to the Detective The Watertown PD also became the new were trained and certified in the use of the Division with their assistance in a variety of home for the NEMLEC Crime Scene Truck AR-15 patrol rifle and the 40 caliber pistol. incidents and cases involving students. in 2006. The truck is equipped with equip- Under a grant from the State Emergency ment and resources to respond to a variety Telecommunications Board (SETB) many of Domestic Violence Unit of crime scenes. Detective David MacNeil Watertown’s public safety dispatchers have Detective Kathleen Campbell was recently is the crime scene investigator and he received specialized training in various assigned as the Domestic Violence Officer. responded to the following communities to aspects of emergency communications. Detective Campbell replaced Detective Joseph assist in crime scene services: Concord, Our School Resource Officers attended Kelly who held the position since 2002. Belmont, Arlington, Bedford and Waltham. a variety of training dealing with juvenile law and related issues. Newly promoted

102 Sergeant John MacLellan successfully com- The Department has one School Resource The elementary School Resource Officer pleted the Massachusetts Police Leadership Officer assigned to each major educational and the Administrative Community Policing Institute, which is a two-week course level – high school, middle school, and one Officer are certified DARE instructors. instructed by world-renowned leaders in officer is assigned to the three elementary Classes for Watertown Public School fifth police management. Officer James “Matt” schools. The elementary School Resource graders began in September 2008 and are Brown completed the Massachusetts State Officer provides support to the staff, stu- scheduled to be completed in January 2009. Police motorcycle certification course. dents, and parents at the Lowell, Hosmer, The Division uses surveys to measure Lieutenant Michael Lawn and Detective David and Cunniff Schools. The elementary School citizens’ fear of crime and satisfaction MacNeil attended the advanced detective Resource Officer also assists the schools with the Police Department. The survey seminar offered by the Commonwealth with fundraisers, peer mediation, field trips, also gives citizens an opportunity to make Police Service, Inc. Lieutenants Logue and bullying prevention, parent meetings, and recommendations on how the Department Lawn, along with Sergeant Daniel Unsworth, emergency crisis planning. can improve its quality of service. On a attended a firearms legal update course in The High School and Middle School quarterly basis, 150 random surveys are September. Officers Lloyd Burke and Jennifer Resource Officers work to build relation- mailed to citizens who have had contact Connors attended a variety of computer- ships with the students and staff, provide a with the Department. The Department related trainings, from cyber crime to spe- sense of security in the facility, and provide continues to receive an overwhelmingly cialized in-house software. In August, several guidance to teachers, students, and their positive response to the survey. detectives attended a one-week course on parents. The High School Officer is a cyber crime investigation. In June, Detective Although the Community and Staff member of Students Against Destructive Kathleen Campbell attended a one-week Development Division continues to lack Decisions (SADD), and has created an course on sexual assault investigation, full staffing, a variety of presentations evening dodge ball program for high school offered by the District Attorney’s Office. and training seminars were offered to the students. The Middle School Resource citizens of Watertown. At the Watertown Several of our officers were trained in the Officer is a certified instructor of the Middle School, the Administrative Commu- “less-than-lethal” shotgun. This shotgun uti- American Red Cross Babysitter course, nity Police Officer offered the Girls and lizes a beanbag type projectile which is and CPR/AED training. Goals 2008 program. Formally named designed to incapacitate and reduce the The three School Resource Officers regu- the Young Women’s Issues Program, this chance of death. This weapon is available to larly attend Community Based Justice meet- program targeted female Middle School those officers who have been specifically ings, which is a collaboration between students, and provided a forum for these trained for its use in the event the need school personnel, public safety profession- students to discuss the current complex arises. Also, officers and dispatchers who als, and social service providers to help issues that young women face. The are members of the NEMLEC SWAT team, identify at-risk youths and provide them program consists of guest speakers, group Rapid Response Team, communications with positive alternatives to steer them away discussions and activities focusing on safety team and motorcycle team attended the from crime and violence, and work with the and risk reduction, career development, regularly scheduled monthly training pro- administration to assist in obtaining neces- health and wellness, self-esteem, and self- vided by NEMLEC. sary services for students. development. The class was supervised by In addition to the aforementioned training, five of the Department’s female officers. All three School Resource Officers are various officers attended training sessions in members of the Watertown Youth Coalition. From May to September, the 2008 Weekly the following areas: computer crime investi- The mission of the Youth Coalition is to 5K Fun Run was offered. The program was gation, community policing, school safety, enhance the abilities of children, parents very successful, and the participants were terrorism, illicit drugs and many others. and the community to increase healthy impressed with the Police Department School Resource Officers decision making and decrease unhealthy offering such a unique program. Statistics risky behaviors. The officers regularly work revealed that 78 unique runners partici- and Community Outreach with this coalition to create safe and alco- pated, totaling 247 individual runs. The Community and Staff Development hol-free programming, raise awareness in In the summer of 2008, the Community and Division consists of three School Resource hopes of preventing youth risky behaviors, Staff Development Division had the oppor- Officers (SROs), one full-time Technical and educate youths and adults on the dan- tunity to retain all officers. In the past, the Services and Crime Analysis Officer, one gers and impacts of risky behaviors. Web Master/Crime Mapping Officer, and an School Resource Officers were reassigned Administrative Community Police Officer. to the Patrol Division. Because of the retention of officers, the Division was able to

103 offer a substantial amount of youth pro- In 2008, the Jail Diversion Program oper- Civilian Personnel – 2008 gramming to the Community. ated on a full-time basis. This program is a Promotions: None collaboration between the Police Depart- Appointments: None On Wednesday and Friday evenings, a ment and the Edinburg Crisis Center to Retirements: None basketball program was offered for youths provide better services to citizens who are Resignations: None in grades 6-12. This program, which was experiencing a crisis due to mental health Deceased: None held at the Moxley Field, allowed the School or substance abuse issues. This program Resource Officers the opportunity to main- focuses on creating alternatives to arrest, Bureau of Field Operations tain their rapport with school-aged youth. booking, and/or jail for people whose Youths benefited by having a safe, well-lit, criminal behavior is directly due to mental Patrol Division monitored place to engage in a positive illness or substance abuse. A full-time The primary mission of the Patrol Division activity. licensed clinical social worker was assigned is to serve Watertown’s citizens through a On Tuesday and Friday evenings, the offi- to the Department and responded with cooperative effort and to protect their prop- cers partnered with the Watertown Public police to citizens in crisis. erty through enforcement of laws and Library to offer game nights for youths highly visible deterrent activities. The offi- All officers continue to assist the Watertown entering grades 6-12. The program cers of the Patrol Division represent the Public School System with their crisis man- included various electronic games and Department’s first response to all emer- agement protocols. These officers attend traditional board games. The youths had gencies and most calls for service. The regular meetings with school personnel to the opportunity to interact with officers in Department hired four new officers in 2008 discuss procedures to prevent and mitigate an informal manner. During this program, to fill vacancies. They are Officer Kenneth emergency situations which could occur on officers were able to assist many youths Dinjian, Officer Emily Doss, Officer John school property. The goal of this crisis with issues that arose. Watts and Officer Michael D’Amico. It takes management team is to provide a safe envi- approximately one year to hire and train an During the month of July 2008, the radKIDS ronment for students and to adequately officer to fill a vacancy. There were an addi- 1 program was offered to children ages 3 /2 prepare for a variety of potential emergen- tional four vacancies which were eliminated to 12. This program provides education cies that could affect school personnel or due to budget issues. that enhances the ability of children and structures. All officers continue to staff the parents to utilize knowledge, skills, and Cops & Kids after-school program at the During 2008 the Patrol Division responded power to protect themselves from violence Watertown Middle School. to 22,130 calls for service and/or motor and harm. One hundred Watertown youths vehicle stops. These calls initiated inves- successfully completed this program. Sworn Personnel – 2008 tigations and events that resulted in 456 Promotions: arrests, 100 persons being placed in The Watertown Police Department contin- William M. Logue 06/05/2008 Protective Custody and 365 summons being ues to offer the Rape Aggression Defense Lieutenant of Police issued. These statistics do not reflect all of Systems program to women who live or the officer-initiated contacts made by patrol work in Watertown. This 16-hour risk John C. MacLellan 06/05/2008 officers during the course of routine patrol. reduction and self-defense course is free Sergeant of Police Heavy emphasis by the Patrol Division was for participants. In 2008, the Department’s Appointments: also placed in the enforcement of traffic certified instructors held two RAD courses. Michael C. D’Amico 05/08/2008 regulations in keeping with the goal of The program remains well received and Kenneth C. Dinjian 05/08/2008 moving traffic safely and efficiently on the attended. Emily A. Doss 05/08/2008 streets of Watertown. Officers and equipment were assigned to monitor and enforce In 2008, the Community and Staff Develop- John K. Watts 05/08/2008 traffic rules and orders when necessary in ment Division held its fifth Halloween event, Retirements: keeping with this goal. “The Haunted Police Station.” For this Robert J. McElroy 04/23/2008 event, the booking and cell block areas of Lieutenant of Police Officers were also assigned to “hot spots” the station were converted into a haunted for enforcement. These locations are where house. The event targeted children ages 12 Resignations: a large number of accidents or violations and under. The event was an enormous James J. Carlson 03/22/2008 occur, or where there are numerous com- success; over 500 participants toured the Deceased: None plaints by citizens. police station.

104 Patrols were adjusted during the course of including narcotics, criminal law, traffic, ambulances when required. They also dis- the year to address increased activity due to patrol procedures, and deadly force. The patch all police cars to service and emer- crime trends, holidays, special events, program also included a ride-along, where gency calls, which amounted to 22,130 and recreational events at parks and play- participants can ride with an officer on calls for service last year alone. These dis- grounds. Patrols were increased during patrol to get an up-close and personal view patchers are also required to make contact peak shopping periods in the business dis- of police work. with the Registry of Motor Vehicles to tricts of Watertown. This was accomplished obtain vehicle information and confirm by using motor patrol, foot patrol, and the North Eastern Massachusetts warrants on wanted individuals. use of motorcycles. The Patrol Division Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC) works in concert with other divisions in the The Watertown Police Department contin- Traffic Division Police Department and outside public and ues its membership and commitment with In 2008, the Watertown Police Department private agencies within the area to accom- the North Eastern Massachusetts Law Traffic Division conducted traffic enforce- plish the objective of providing the most Enforcement Council (NEMLEC). NEMLEC ment activities throughout the Town. These effective deployment of personnel possible. is a group of 41 cities and towns that share activities included enforcement of both Computer data is analyzed to assist in the resources. These NEMLEC cities and towns parking regulations and moving motor deployment of police officers to areas in have a combined SWAT Team (Special vehicle laws. need of police attention. Weapons and Tactics), RRT Team (Regional Response Team) and a motorcycle unit that The Traffic Division has two patrol cars and The Patrol Division, as well as the entire will respond to any member community on four Harley Davidson motorcycles assigned Police Department, is committed to a moment’s notice. NEMLEC Motorcycle to it. Officers operating the motorcycles Community Policing. One of the goals of Unit, RRT & SWAT teams train monthly and attended either 40 hours of instruction Community Policing is to build a partner- are on call to NEMLEC communities to at the Boston Police Motorcycle Training ship between the police and the community, assist with emergency situations. In the Academy, the MBTA Motorcycle Training encouraging interaction between the two past, Watertown Police Officers assigned Academy or an 80-hour course sponsored so that we can solve community problems to these units assisted the Boston Police by the North Eastern Massachusetts Law together. This partnership also allows the Department with security for the Enforcement Council (NEMLEC). community to let the police know what con- Democratic National Convention and the cerns they have and which issues they feel The Traffic Division supervises two Town Red Sox World Series baseball games and are important and would like addressed. employees who are employed as Parking parade. In 2008, the following units were Officers receive training in Community Enforcement Officials. The addition of these called out as shown below: Policing and are encouraged to increase two positions allows Police Officers to dedi- their interaction with the citizens on their Motorcycle Unit 7 incidents cate their time to other police duties. respective patrol routes. Officers are also SWAT Unit 15 incidents Between January and December 2008, the relieved of their assignment for a portion of RRT Unit 8 incidents Traffic Division conducted surveys, studied their shift to work with the community on Tactical Dispatch Unit 2 incidents traffic flows, and conducted investigations various issues and problems. Accomplish- for the Watertown Traffic Commission. ments include a Police Athletic League Public Safety Dispatchers This information was used by the Traffic that has had over 500 youths participate, There are nine Public Safety Dispatchers Commission in their determination for the coached by police officers and dispatchers that answer over 58,938 estimated incom- addition, replacement, or deletion of traffic who volunteer their time. The “Cops & ing phone calls per year. The dispatchers signs, rules and regulations. Kids” program involves police officers and answer all calls for assistance for both the The Traffic Division also has two speed/ middle school students in a structured Watertown Fire Department and Police radar trailers, purchased with federal grant after-school program between the hours Department. The dispatchers come under money awarded to the Department. These of 2:30 pm and 4:00 pm. In 2008, the the Patrol Division of the Police Depart- trailers are portable radar units that display Police Department held one Citizens Police ment. They are the first point of contact the target vehicle speed on a 3' x 3' display Academy class which gives participating for all citizens requesting assistance or window. This trailer can also conduct traffic citizens an inside look at the Police Depart- directions from either department. The discounts, counting the number of cars that ment. Each class is made up of approxi- patchers answer all E-911 calls, which pass by, by the hour of day, and recording mately 18 citizens, of all ages, and is taught totaled 9,433 calls in 2008, and are respon- their speed. This appears to be an effective by police officers on various subjects sible for dispatching all fire apparatus and

105 tool in reducing vehicle speed in problem The Traffic Division also received a grant areas where the trailer is set up. of 175 bicycle safety helmets from the Exec- utive Office of Public Safety and Security, The Traffic Division also supervises 23 Highway Safety Division, for distribution to full-time and 3 part-time traffic supervisors. Town youths in need of a helmet or in con- These supervisors are responsible for traffic junction with a bicycle safety program. control and the safe passage of school- children in and around the public schools. In the year 2008, the Department issued the following motor vehicle citations: In the event of any serious or fatal accident, the Watertown Police Department Traffic 26,804 Parking citations Division maintains a team of accident 9,556 Moving citations reconstruction specialists who are on call 12,168 Moving violations 24 hours a day. These officers are capable These include: of reconstructing an accident and deter- 152 Traffic-related arrests mining vehicle speeds and other variables 344 Criminal complaint applications contributing to the accident. 5,218 Civil fines The Traffic Division received a $15,000 3,753 Warnings Grant from the Executive Office of Public 63 Operating under/Alcohol Safety and Security. One “Click It or Ticket” 206 Suspended/Revoked licenses program allowed the Department to con- 131 Operating w/o being licensed centrate on detecting seat belt violations. 307 Accidents Three “Over The Limit, Under Arrest” pro- 273 M/V vs. M/V grams also helped the Department in 2 M/V vs. Fixed Object detecting impaired drivers due to alcohol 25 M/V vs. Pedestrian or drugs. The final program was the “Road 7 M/V vs. Bicycle Respect” program. This concentrated on There was one fatal motor vehicle accident road rage type infractions. $5,000 went to in 2008. the purchase of equipment. The Depart- ment bought five speed information signs, The Department also has a Commercial which flash a vehicle’s speed as it passes by. Vehicle Enforcement Unit. This unit ensures the safety of the motoring public and con- Traffic officers also install child safety car tributes to maintaining the integrity of the seats for Town residents free of charge. Town roadways by inspecting commercial Officers attend a 40-hour course to learn vehicles and their drivers for safety and how to properly install child car seats. equipment compliance as well as ensuring In 2008, officers installed 270 car seats. these vehicles are not overweight. This unit The Watertown Police Traffic Division in consists of one officer who is a trained and conjunction with the Massachusetts State certified U.S. Department of Transportation Police also conducted one sobriety check (DOT) inspector. In 2008 alone he made point funded through a grant from the over 165 inspections and cited vehicles Executive Office of Public Safety and for having a combined total of 314,550 Security. A checkpoint was set up and cars lbs. of overweight commercial vehicles on stopped to check the operator’s sobriety. Watertown streets. This officer is also This four-hour checkpoint resulted in the trained and certified by the U.S. Department arrest of 11 individuals. of Transportation to conduct inspections of commercial vehicles carrying Hazardous Materials.

106 Fire Department

Fire and Emergency Incident One Multiple-Alarm Fire adjacent community, directly to the fire to Response in 2008: assist with firefighting efforts, or to fire station coverage assignments during major fires The Watertown Fire Department responded The Fire Department responded to many in other cities and towns. to 4,383 reported fires and emergency calls calls for structure and dwelling fires during for assistance during 2008. A summary of the year. The initial response to such calls Estimated Property Losses in 2008 those incidents and estimated property is by two engine companies and an aerial losses as compiled by the Fire Prevention ladder company, under the command of the Building and structure fires $627,000 Bureau is as follows: deputy fire chief on duty. This initial alarm Estimated Largest Losses in Property response is usually sufficient to confine and Fire/Explosion 48 100 Dexter Avenue $250,000 extinguish the fire. However, when condi- Building/Structure Fires 13 56 Charles Street $100,000 tions require the response of more fire Overpressure Rupture 8 14 Charles Street $100,000 apparatus, the officer in charge at the scene Rescue Calls 2,701 25 Cuba Street $75,000 orders additional resources to reinforce the Hazardous Condition 315 28 Chandler Street $60,000 initial fire attack and complete the first Service Calls 384 alarm assignment. These additional or Fees Collected Good Intent Call 132 greater alarms bring additional engine Smoke detector inspections $23,040 False Call 764 companies and aerial ladder companies to Copies of departmental reports $130 Severe Weather/Natural Disaster 10 the fire location. Required Permits for product Special Type/Complaint 8 storage, or regulated activities $15,965 Total Number of Emergency Watertown firefighters responded to one Annual fees for connection to Responses for the Year 2008: 4,383 multiple-alarm fire in 2008 for which master fire alarm boxes $16,280 a second alarm was sounded. The location Coverage Assignment/Mutual Aid 154 Required fire prevention of the fire and the date of the incident is inspections, conducted quarterly $400 as follows: Annual Apparatus Response Quarterly Inspection $490 for 2008: Date: September 21, 2008 Total Fees Collected $56,305 Central Fire Station (Station 1), Location: 14 Charles Street Inspections Conducted by 99 Main Street: Type of Occupancy: Residential Fire Apparatus Number of Alarms: 2 Engine 1 1,609 Oil burner inspections 51 Ladder 1 939 Mutual Aid Assistance Smoke detector inspections 576 East Watertown Fire Station (Station 2), Inspections conducted quarterly: from Other Greater Boston Day care facilities 44 564 Mount Auburn Street: Fire Departments and Engine 2 1,332 Public and private schools 60 Ladder 2 596 Mutual Aid Response to Community residences 20 Other Communities Nursing care facilities 4 North Watertown Fire Station (Station 3), The Watertown Fire Department thanks the Handicapped workshops 20 270 Orchard Street: Arlington, Belmont, Boston, Brookline, Motels 4 Engine 3 1,227 Cambridge, Newton, Weston and Waltham Fire Department Provides Fire Rescue 1 2,229 fire departments for providing fire scene Fire Rescue 2 94 Basic Emergency Medical response and fire station coverage during Assistance Note: Some incidents require response of 2008 when all Watertown firefighters units were engaged in fire suppression activities. The Fire Department has provided basic more than one unit to the scene of the emergency medical care and transportation emergency. The Fire Department responded to other for citizens in Watertown since 1975. The municipalities in Greater Boston several department has 87 firefighters who are times in 2008, under the established Metro- certified Emergency Medical Technicians. fire District mutual aid assistance agreement. The remaining firefighting personnel are These responses were to fires reported near qualified to state standards as medical the boundary between Watertown and an First Responders.

107 All members of the Department certify transported, usually in the Watertown Fire Watertown Fire Department annually in cardiopulmonary resuscitation Department ambulance, within protocols Receives Federal Grant (CPR) skills. The Department’s engine and guidelines provided by the emergency For the second time in three years the companies and ladder companies are also medical region which provides oversight Watertown Fire Department was awarded a equipped to handle medical emergencies. for ALS activity in the Greater Boston area. grant through the Department of Homeland The closest available Engine Company is Ongoing clinical supervision and quality Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant dispatched with the Fire Rescue to medical assurance is provided in conjunction with Program. The highly competitive program assistance calls. Aerial ladder companies the South Middlesex and North Suburban awarded a grant in the amount of $59,066, are sent to the emergency scene when EMS consortia. for the purchase of new state-of-the-art their specialized rescue skills or equipment Thermal Imaging Cameras that aid fire- is needed. September 11, 2008 – fighters when searching smoke-filled areas. Firefighters who are either Emergency Patriot Day Additionally, supplemental breathing air Medical Technicians or Medical First The Fire Department participated in a cylinders were purchased to enhance fire- Responders are also trained on the use of September 11th ceremony to commemorate ground activities and available breathing air the semi-automatic cardiac defibrillator. the sixth anniversary of the terrorist attacks and lastly, all members of the Department These defibrillators have been carried on of Sept. 11, 2001, and the subsequent participated in a three-day training on the Fire Rescue/ambulance, as well as the losses suffered at the World Trade Center, Emergency Vehicle Operations instructed by first-responding engine companies and the Pentagon, and in Pennsylvania. a nationally accredited professional instruc- aerial ladder companies, for several years. Apparatus at the Main Street fire station and tor. Upon completion of this training each The Fire Department upgraded their defib- the firefighters on duty followed a plan of member received a National Certification. rillators during 2002 to newer models with events recommended by the Fire Chiefs’ enhanced features. The Fire Department Association of Massachusetts and the Personnel Activities in 2008 added a stationary defibrillator in the lobby Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts. Town Manager Michael J. Driscoll made the of Fire Headquarters in 2004. Watertown The Watertown Firefighters Local 1347 following appointments and promotions was one of the first communities in the Color Guard participated. Off-duty members during the year, in order to fill vacancies Greater Boston area to have these life- of the Department were invited to attend, within the Fire Department. Town Manager saving units available for early response to and many did so. The Firefighters Color Driscoll also reduced the department by emergency medical incidents. Guard and Fire Chief Mario Orangio three firefighters in 2008. also participated in the Community A cooperative agreement with a private Remembrance. Appointments ambulance company to provide Advanced Life Support (ALS) service in Watertown No appointments to the Department were Watertown Youths made in 2008. was instituted in November 1995. ALS Attend Middlesex County services are provided by a non-transport Advanced Life Support unit staffed by two Public Safety Program Promotions certified Paramedics. Dozens of Watertown youths and several Lieutenant Daniel Tardif was appointed members of the Fire Department partici- permanent Captain on February 21, 2008. The ALS system is a two-tier model. The pated in the annual Middlesex County Youth Watertown Fire Department provides emer- Public Safety Academy in August 2008. The Firefighter Edward LaVache was appointed gency medical Basic Life Support service, Watertown contingent attended the program permanent Lieutenant on March 20, 2008. and the dispatch of its ambulance unit to during the week of August 11, 2008. On the scene upon receipt of a medical emer- Tuesday, August 12, the Fire Department and Retirements gency call. Watertown public safety dis- Police Department welcomed the boys and Captain Phillip Cook retired from the Fire patchers also send the ALS unit if the nature girls for a full day presentation of the two Department on January 31, 2008. Captain and circumstances of the reported incident, public safety department’s operations and Cook was appointed a firefighter on August such as a cardiac-related emergency, are capabilities. Other activities were held at the 23, 1979, and was promoted to the rank of within certain guidelines. Middlesex County Sheriff’s Training Academy Lieutenant on October 2, 1987 and Captain in Billerica. Graduation ceremonies were on on November 1, 1994. He retired after Medical direction for Watertown Advanced Friday, August 15, followed by a cookout serving the Fire Department and the Town Life Support activity is provided by the for children, parents and staff. Firefighter of Watertown for more than 28 years. South Middlesex Emergency Medical Paul Coughlin continued representing the Services Consortium through the Mount Department by participating in the program. Auburn Hospital. Patients are treated and

108 Firefighter David Oster retired from the Fire In memory of our comrades Department on August 8, 2008. Firefighter departed in 2008 Oster was appointed a firefighter on March Retired Firefighter Paul Camposano, Sr. died 22, 1984. He retired after serving the Fire on January 29, 2008. Firefighter Camposano Department and the Town of Watertown for was appointed to the Watertown Fire Depart- more than 24 years. ment on August 6, 1942. He retired on January 29, 1973, after more than 30 years Awards of service to the Department and the Town of The Massachusetts Fire Service Commission Watertown. has established the Massachusetts Fire Service Award Program to recognize fire- Retired Firefighter Martin Robertson died fighters who have served their department on January 29, 2008. Firefighter Robertson and community for 20 or more years. was appointed to the Watertown Fire There is a certificate and distinctive uni- Department on April 12, 1951. He retired form emblem to denote length of service on January 31, 1978, after more than 26 in five-year increments. The emblem is years of service to the Department and the approved for wear above the right pocket Town of Watertown. of the dress uniform blouse or shirt. Retired Lieutenant David M. O’Reilly died The Department is pleased to join with the on October 3, 2008. Lieutenant O’Reilly Fire Service Commission and the State Fire was appointed to the Watertown Fire Marshal in recognizing the following mem- Department on September 19, 1968. He bers of the Watertown Fire Department, was promoted to Lieutenant on July 28, based upon their completed service as of 1977. He retired on March 6, 1995, after December 31, 2008, as recipients of the more than 26 years of service to the awards: Department and the Town of Watertown. 20-Year Award Retired Lieutenant John P. Quirk, Jr. died on Thomas McManus October 12, 2008. Lieutenant Quirk was Stephen Caira appointed to the Watertown Fire Depart- Gary Murphy ment on January 1, 1948. He was promoted Edward Santiago to Lieutenant on July 25, 1961. He retired on September 16, 1981, after more than 33 25-Year Award years of service to the Department and the Town of Watertown. Q. Paul Paglierani Donald White, Jr. Retired Firefighter Alfred F. Beninati died Kevin McElroy on November 1, 2008. Firefighter Beninati David Stone was appointed to the Watertown Fire Russell Wiltshire Department on February 29, 1960. He retired on March 26, 1992, after more than 30-Year Award 32 years of service to the Department and William Hughes the Town of Watertown. Retired Lieutenant John J. Messina died on Service Award Program December 9, 2008. Lieutenant Messina was In 2006, the Department instituted a appointed to the Watertown Fire Depart- Service Award Program in order to ment on December 22, 1947. He was recognize the efforts of members of the promoted to Lieutenant on May 1, 1970. Department in the performance of their He retired on June 14, 1977, after more duties. No awards were earned in 2008. than 29 years of service to the Department and the Town of Watertown. The Fire Department mourns their passing.

109 Emergency Management

Emergency Management Emergency Management 3. Response: Those activities that prevent The current practice in Massachusetts and Activities loss of lives and property and provide emergency assistance; and other states is to designate what were for- In Watertown, the fire chief is currently merly known as municipal “Civil Defense” the emergency management director. The 4. Recovery: Those short- and long-term agencies as “Emergency Management” Fire Department principal account clerk activities that return all systems to normal organizations. The Town official responsible performs necessary emergency manage- or improved standards. for the Emergency Management Department ment clerical assignments. The projects and is known as the “local emergency manage- clerical assignments in 2008 included: The plan was written in accordance with ment director.” Following the establishment existing federal, state and local statutes. • Maintaining the Town’s Comprehensive of the Federal Emergency Management Department heads assigned a responsibility Agency (FEMA), states have generally Emergency Management Plan (CEM Plan), under the plan were directed by the Town followed suit. In Massachusetts, the Massa- Manager to develop implementing proce- chusetts Civil Defense Agency became the • Annual hazardous materials information dures for each department, describing how Massachusetts Emergency Management management relating to SARA (Superfund response functions will be carried out. A Agency (MEMA). MEMA has encouraged Amendment and Reauthorization Act of copy of the CEM Plan is available for review cities and towns in Massachusetts to adopt 1986) Title III requirements, during business hours at the Office of the the “emergency management” designations. • Clerical support for Local Emergency Town Clerk, in the Administration Building. This practice reflects the realization that Planning Committee records and the community preparedness under civil required Hazardous Materials Response Community Preparedness defense guidelines has evolved to emer- Plan annual review, Watertown has a designated (uncertified) gency preparedness and management • Other FEMA and MEMA state and area Local Emergency Planning Committee efforts during and following natural and headquarters clerical tasks, which (LEPC) and a current Comprehensive man-made emergency events. Those require attention. Emergency Management Plan. Watertown include hurricanes, winter storms, would be eligible for federal or state assis- hazardous materials incidents, and now, CEM Plan tance, financial or otherwise, in case of an unfortunately, terrorism incidents. Both Every community in Massachusetts has a emergency or disaster. FEMA and MEMA also recognize that Comprehensive Emergency Management municipalities deal with these emergencies Plan (CEM Plan). The CEM Plan is updated Watertown established an LEPC in 1988, through the efforts of their existing public annually, and is subject to a major revision as required. The LEPC included the Town safety, public works and public services on a five-year cycle. Maintaining a current Manager (as chairperson), the police and departments. Cities and towns maintain CEM Plan is essential to the community’s fire chiefs, the DPW superintendent, the their usual municipal operating structure, ability to respond to emergencies that can health director, and the planning director. and can request needed state and federal and do occur. The committee also included “emergency resources through contact with MEMA area planning coordinators” of facilities that and state headquarters. MEMA considers The revised Emergency Management Plan were required to report amounts of certain the point-of-contact official to be the local for Watertown provides a framework hazardous materials if stored or used at emergency management director. wherein the community can plan and per- their sites. The LEPC was required to form their respective emergency functions develop a hazardous response plan, and during a disaster or emergency situation on did so. There is a requirement for the plan the local, state or national level. to be reviewed annually by members of The Comprehensive Emergency Manage- the LEPC. The Town does so. Annually in ment Plan combines the four phases of March, the Town receives “Tier Two” inven- emergency management: tories from facilities required to report the presence of certain hazardous materials 1. Mitigation: Those activities that eliminate during the previous year. Those reports or reduce the probability of disaster; are incorporated into an annual update, 2. Preparedness: Those activities that now known as Section Five: Hazardous governments, organizations, and individuals Materials, of the CEM Plan. develop to save lives and minimize damage;

110 The original focus of the LEPC was to be • The local emergency management • In August of 2008, the Watertown on transportation emergencies involving director attended monthly Emergency Emergency Management Coalition (EMC) hazardous materials. Transportation modes Management Directors meetings held was created and members from all Town are shipment by rail, highway, maritime at MEMA Region 1 Headquarters in departments were invited to participate. vessel, aircraft and pipeline. At about the Tewksbury. The goal of the group is to involve as same time, the Massachusetts Hazardous • The Board of Health has developed many Town employees in the planning Materials Response Team concept was plans to initiate and staff Emergency for dealing with disasters that affect developed. There are now six Regional Dispensing Sites (EDS) in Watertown. the Town. Hazardous Materials Response teams estab- In order to facilitate activating these The Town will continue to seek any appro- lished, and available to respond to any sites, a special medical equipment trailer priate grants for training and equipment community in the state. Team members are was purchased to carry supplies needed relating to emergency preparedness that career firefighters from fire departments to stock these sites. may become available through federal or throughout Massachusetts. Team members • National Incident Management System state sources. are certified as hazard materials technicians (NIMS) training was continued and after completing a 160-hour training completed by required departments, course. Team members complete a mini- in compliance with the NIMS program. mum of 80 hours recurrent training The emphasis this year was on increasing annually. The Town’s current hazardous the level of Incident Command training. materials plan calls for the response of the Training was held within the Town and Massachusetts HazMat Regional Response senior officials participated in advanced Team when circumstances dictate. classes throughout the state. Although the designated members of • Plans continue for the development Watertown’s LEPC do not often convene of a Townwide disaster drill. Public formally, the members nonetheless meet Consulting Group (PCG) was selected regularly as part of the Town Manager’s to conduct the first stage and in May staff. They work together at incidents when a Senior Officials Workshop for Town and as necessary, and communicate with officials from the emergency one another as necessary. management team was conducted. The Town continued its membership in the • Watertown’s Police Chief Edward Deveau Battle Road Emergency Planning Council. completed his second two-year term as The Council is comprised of the following chair of the Northeast Homeland Security towns: Arlington, Bedford, Belmont, Regional Advisory Council of the Burlington, Lexington and Watertown. Executive Office of Public Safety. Chief Additionally, the cities of Brookline and Deveau stepped down from the Council Newton have applied for membership. chair to become the President of The regional council meets monthly with NEMLEC. a goal of assisting member communities • Watertown’s Fire Chief now represents in times of emergency/disaster by a sharing the MetroFire Chiefs as a member of the of resources. Northeast Homeland Security Regional Advisory Council of the Executive Office Because of increased emphasis on home- of Public Safety. land security and emergency planning, Town officials have participated in several • In January of 2008 the Town partici- meetings, conferences and seminars during pated in a Regional Disaster Drill to 2008. exercise the Battle Road Group. A mock terrorist incident was staged at BAE Systems in Lexington, MA and each Battle Road community sent representatives to the drill.

111 Community Development and Planning

Community Development • Coordination of real estate development Zoning Board of Appeals & Planning Division activities, land-use planning, transporta- Harry J. Vlachos served as Chairman of the tion, housing and related policies The Department of Community Develop- Board for the term of 2007–2008 and will ment & Planning was created through a • Coordination of the Town’s capital serve again for the 2008–2009 term. vote of the Town Council in August 1982. improvements Melissa M. Santucci continues to serve as The Department provides a formal relation- • Administration of various community Clerk for the term 2008–2009. The remain- ship and coordination between several development programs and grants such ing members are: Stuart J. Bailey, Deborah boards, commissions and committees such as the CDBG, Home Improvement Loan Elliott, Carlos Fernandez, and Alternate as the Planning Board, Board of Appeals, Program, the federal HOME program Member Richard M. Moynihan. The Board Historical and Conservation Commissions, • Initiation and administration of has one vacancy – a second alternate Historic District Commission, Housing economic development policies and member. Support Staff includes Nancy Scott, Partnership, the Building Inspection and procedures which will allow Watertown Zoning Enforcement Officer and Louise Zoning Enforcement Divisions, and the to remain competitive in retaining and Civetti, Clerk to the Board. Community Development and Planning attracting investment to provide for During 2008, the Zoning Board of Appeals Office. Each entity is accorded professional revenue and employment growth heard and acted on 51 petitions, in accor- and support services by Department dance with the provisions of M.G.L. c. 40A employees. The aim of integrating these Planning Board and the Watertown Zoning Ordinance related agencies is to improve communi- During 2008, the Planning Board reviewed (WZO). The petitions include: 8 Special cation and coordination and to provide and made recommendations on numerous Permit Applications; 16 Special Permit services more efficiently to the community. residential and commercial development Finding Applications; 12 Variance The Department has seen several personnel projects. The Board reviewed a total of Applications, 12 Amendments, 2 Appeals of changes over the course of the past year. 8 Special Permit Applications; 16 Special the Determination of the ZEO, and 1 Appeal Greg Watson departed after a number of Permit Finding Applications; 12 Variance of the Inspector of Buildings. Total fees years of dedicated service to the Town. Applications, 12 Amendments to Special collected for all petitions: $10,230. Permits or Variances. We also welcomed Steve Magoon as the Petitions before the Board are generally for new director. Daphne Collins was promoted The Planning Board and staff have also residential properties involving building to Senior Planner, replacing Joe Merkel, completed the review and adoption of the additions, upgrades, and requests for new or who also left us this year. Pleasant Street Corridor rezoning. This expanded driveways. A few projects of inter- The following is a summary of some represented the culmination of the efforts est before the Board during this year are: high points of the hard work of the dedi- of many over a period of years to provide long range planning to this opportunity 149–165 Grove Street and cated employees of this Department for 105 Coolidge Hill Road: the year 2008. area of the Town. This effort brought the community together to establish a shared The Hanover Company, Houston, TX, sought vision, which is now being implemented. approval to construct a four-story residen- Planning & Community tial apartment building having 174 high-end Development Division The Planning Board members include its dwelling units (69 one-bedroom; 105 two- The Division serves several important Chairman, John B. Hawes, and members bedroom) providing 17 affordable units functions within the Department and the G. Jack Zollo, Linda Tuttle-Barletta, Jeffrey and 366 two-level underground parking Town, among them is the following: W. Brown, and Peter Abair (resigned during spaces. Opposition to the project resulted 2008). The Planning Board staff consists in the redesigning and the reduction to 169 • Staff support to the Planning Board of Steve Magoon, Community Development dwelling units with 355 two-level under- and the Housing Partnership & Planning Director; Danielle Fillis, Daphne ground parking spaces. The surrounding • Representation to several state and Collins, Senior Planners; and Ingrid neighbors opposed the redesigned project regional agencies including Metropolitan Marchesano, Clerk to the Planning Board. due to its size and potential traffic impact. Area Planning Council, MBTA Advisory After three meetings with the Planning Board, and the Regional Transportation Board (PB), the majority of the PB could Advisory Council not recommend this particular project due to its density; however, they did like the

112 concept. In May, the Zoning Board, at its housing and further satisfying many Smart Inspector of Buildings second continued hearing, echoed the Growth objectives – locating of residences Building Permits Issued 685 sentiments of the PB – too large a project within walking distance of public trans- Occupancy Permits 57 for the neighborhood. Hearing the pro- portation and downtown amenities. jected opposition, The Hanover Company Sign Permits 37 69, 73, 83 Waverley Avenue: asked and received approval to withdraw Certificates of Inspection 46 Michael Iodice, Chatham Park LLC, Newton, their petition. Complaints Investigated 20 requested to raze three existing dwellings 1060 Belmont Street, 3–9 Townly Road, on three contiguous lots and construct 18 Total Estimated Cost 6–8 Prospect Street: residential units within three townhouse of Construction: $54,920,948 Watertown Community Housing (WCH) structures having 36 garage parking spaces Residential 18,095,455 purchased three multi-family buildings (at grade) and providing seven surface Commercial 36,814,838 having six units in each. The 1060 Belmont visitor spaces. The Board approved this Street building had two commercial base- project and found this area of the R 1.2 New Residential: ment units and sought approval to convert residential zoning district to be appropriate 1 Two-family residence them to two residential units. WHC has for a higher density of residential use con- devoted $1.5 million in renovation costs to sidering the sharp transition between a Raze: upgrade the life safety and energy elements high-density residential development, a large 1 Single family of all of the 18 units and reconfigure the middle school and single family and two- 6 Two-family residences existing parking with site modifications. family dwellings. Two affordable units will 1 Three-family residences The Executive Director of WCH indicated be provided in this rental unit development. 1 Commercial building that all of the units will be affordable for families at or below 60% of area median Zoning Enforcement Officer 5 Garages income – depending upon family size. The In the course of the year, the Zoning Officer 1 Barn Board recognizes the significant impact reviewed 685 building permit applications, these units will have on the Watertown 57 occupancy applications, and 37 sign Inspector of Wires rental market. The Board supports and applications. There were 9 driveway exten- Permits Issued 712 applauds WCH in their efforts and there- sions and/or new driveway approvals. The Inspections/Re-inspections 1650 fore, granted their petition. Ensuring the Zoning Officer attended 12 Zoning Board Inspections for Occupancy Permits 180 affordability component, the Board condi- meetings including executive sessions. tioned their approval that all units will The Zoning Officer worked closely with the Complaints Investigated 85 remain affordable in perpetuity. Planning Department and Assessor’s office Fire Investigations 4 24–28 Arsenal Street: in re-creating the updated Zoning Map. Electrical Layouts for Town and Robert Bray, Cambridge, MA purchased the The new maps will be ready for distribution Contractors 56 former Casey’s Pub with the residential in early 2009. Electrical Violation Letters 26 apartments above. He sought to raze the Electrical Violations: existing building and construct a five-story, Inspectional Division mixed-use development having first floor In addition to providing inspection services, Residential 24 retail/office space with 14 residential units division staff also acts as Town representa- Commercial 2 above. Fourteen of the required 18 parking tive for a number of capital projects. These Petitions Checked/Approved for spaces are provided underground, with include most notably the new Police Town Council from NStar/NE Tel 6 four at grade and located in the rear. This Headquarters, currently under construc- project is located in the downtown Central tion, the new Treasurer Collector’s office Meetings: Business Zoning District. This mixed-use public counter, and to a lesser extent the Consultations & information with development took advantage of the newly Joint Drug Task Force office space. While Town Residents 54 revised parking requirement. The Board these projects do not generate the usual NStar .8 permit revenue, they are important projects approved the petition and found that the New England Telephone 22 project would benefit Watertown Square for the community. Electrical Inspectors 22 by providing the much-needed downtown

113 Traffic Commission 8 69 Howard Street Drainage The Conservation Commission filled its Street Light outage and follow-up 12 Improvements: vacant seventh seat. Maria P. Rose, who is Improvements to an existing parking area an environmental engineer with the City of Fire Inspector 8 – installation of a new catch basin and Newton, started with the commission in Fire Alarm Inspections 4 particle separator with an outflow to an March 2008. Town Council 0 existing storm drain manhole. Planning Board 8 Department of Conservation and Fees Collected $95,192 Recreation (DCR), Vegetative Management Plan: Inspector of Plumbing/Gas Report discussing the DCR’s ongoing Number of Plumbing Permits Issued: management of invasive species and Plumbing 561 maintenance of state-owned property along Gas 470 the Charles River. 8. Inspections Made: The newly revised and updated Watertown Plumbing 687 Wetlands Ordinance went into effect Filippello Park Gas 443 January 2008. The substantive changes to the ordinance include the following: Historical Commission Fees Received from Plumbing/Gas Permits: $43,428 • Additions to the list of interests protected Members: by the Ordinance, to include water David J. Russo, Jr., Chairperson Conservation Commission quality (as well as water pollution), Marilynne Roach fisheries (as well as wildlife habitat), J.B. Jones Members: and historical and recreational values. Donald S. Berg Marylouise Pallotta McDermott, Chairman • Expanding the provisions related to Susan Steele Charles C. Bering consultant fees, consistent with the new Thomas Malone Nancy H. Hammett MGL Chapter 44 Section 53G provisions Christopher J. Hayward, Preservation Agent Leo G. Martin authorizing Conservation Commissions The Historic Commission continued to Louis M. Taverna to impose reasonable fees to obtain Patrick Fairbairn review building demolitions for properties expert consultant support for its review of 50 years and older, in accordance to the Maria P. Rose of projects. Christopher J. Hayward, Conservation Agent Watertown Demolition Delay Ordinance. • Stating that submission of substantially Public Hearings were held on nine demoli- The Conservation Commission reviewed inaccurate or false information by the tion filings. Of note, a Demolition Delay three Notices of Intent for the following applicant is grounds for the Commission hearing was held for the three radar testing projects: to deny a permit. towers on Waltham Street. The towers, Charles River Reservation • Providing examples of the kinds of which were owned by the Raytheon Riverfront Park: conditions the Commission might impose Company, were used to test radar equipment Improvements to public access in the to protect the resource areas and in the 1950s and 1960s. The piece of prop- Riverfront Park from Galen Street to the interests affected by projects. erty on which they stood was purchased by Watertown Yacht Club are proposed. Other the Jewish Community Day School and the The Commission continues to work with the towers, which had fallen into disrepair, were proposed items include bank stabilization, Department of Conservation and Recreation woodlands restoration, pathway reconfigu- allowed to be removed to make way for the (DCR) in the planning, planting and main- construction of playing fields for the school. ration, construction of overlooks and tenance efforts along the river. Restoration design of a healthy sustainable landscape of the Watertown Landing, which is a col- The Commission held its ninth annual with supporting maintenance strategies. laborative project between the DCR and the Preservation Night and Awards Program at A sensory trail and ADA accessible play- Town of Watertown, is planned to com- the Commander’s Mansion in May. The ground is included. mence in spring 2009. 2008 Watertown Preservation Awards were presented for preservation efforts to the following projects and individuals:

114 Nomination Category Nominee Tree Warden Service to Youth Audrey Childs Jones Christopher J. Hayward, MCA Community Spirit Award Tree Warden Historical Society and With an active Tree Warden under Watertown Bicycle and Massachusetts General Law Chapter 87, Pedestrian Committee a tree division under the Department of Environmental Preservation Award Public Works, an appropriate annual Historical Society of Watertown budget for community forestry programs The Architectural Preservation Award and an official Arbor Day observance and Watertown Historic Historical Society of Watertown proclamation, Watertown continued to District Commission qualify for Tree City USA designation 17 Citizenship Award Karl Huntington consecutive years and running. Neugebauer Members: Citizenship Award Mari Ryan Harvey Steiner, Chairman During the year, 169 trees were planted. Street trees accounted for the majority of Architectural Preservation Award Amleto “Mel” Martocchia Linda Sternberg the tree plantings although trees were 271 Mt. Auburn Street Victoria Carter planted in residents’ front yards when a Lawrence and Christine Aufiero Christopher J. Hayward, Preservation Agent suitable location could not be found on the Environmental Preservation Award street. Continuing with the policy adopted Carole Smith Berney Public Hearings for three applications for in 2001 to diversify street tree plantings, Certificate of Appropriateness (CA) were Community Spirit Award different trees were planted. The trees held for: Watertown Provincial Guard planted this year along the streets of 80 Mt. Auburn Street – Sign replacement Watertown were: Honey locust, Japanese 115 Mt. Auburn Street – Installation of Zelkova, Katsura, Red maple, October awning Glory maple, Chanticleer pear, Ginko, Red 113–135 Mt. Auburn St. – Renovations oak, Pin oak, Pioneer elm, Amur maple, and installations for new store fronts Kwanzan cherries, Okame cherries, Dogwoods, Crab apples and Japanese Tree The Historic District Office staff issued Lilacs. Following best management practice, three Certificates of Non-Applicability for: trees planted under power lines were 125–135 Mt. Auburn Street, 113–135 restricted to those that will not mature over Mt. Auburn Street, 39 Marshall Street, and 30 feet tall. 2008 Architectural Preservation Award – 247 Mt. Auburn Street 271 Mt. Auburn Street

The Commission continued the Watertown Historic Plaque Program. For $65 a property owner can purchase a 9" x 11" oval plaque, identifying the age, original owner, and the architect/builder of their property for display. The Commission researches and verifies the property information. During 2008, 15 plaques were sold.

Arbor Day at Saltonstall Park – April 25, 2008

115 During 2008, a total of 120 street trees Commander’s Mansion were removed due to safety reasons. On Arbor Day, April 25th, a blue spruce that was donated to the Town by David Leon and his family was planted in Saltonstall Park on the slope overlooking the Watertown Boys and Girls Club parking area. Children from the Boys and Girls Club as well as Cub Scout Pack 30 attended the ceremony. This tree will provide the community with many environmental benefits such as cleaning the air of carbon dioxide, reducing noise levels from the street and creating peaceful, shady areas during the summer months. In October 2008, a street tree inventory was completed. All street trees within Watertown Our Mission: were inventoried during the months of July We strive to deliver the highest level of 5 – Barters through September to collect the following professionalism and experience. To provide • photo shoots/for our website; meeting data: location, species, diameter, condition, our clients with an ample resource of quali- space for New Rep/marketing – during maintenance need, clearance issues, and fied vendors to execute each detail of their business hours hardscape and utility conflicts among other event whether it be corporate or social. 3 – Mansion-sponsored events useful tree and site attributes. The data • Wedding Faire ’08 was collected by an ISA Certified Arborist Booked Events January • New England Culinary events employed with Davey Tree Resource com- through December 2008 Miscellaneous pany using hand-held computers aided by All-Day Rentals – 26 events a Global Positioning Systems (GPS) unit Additional Revenue: and current GIS data. Watertown’s staff will Flat Ree Rental – 3 events • Outsourced Linen Rentals Applied – now be able to use the data to determine Monday through 17 events work priorities, select appropriate tree Thursday Rentals – 42 events • Trash Fee Applied – 14 events species for planting, create informational • Overcharges – 28 out of the 42 went • Miscellaneous Income Applied – reports for educational purposes and to overtime; additional revenue 2 events track work histories and costs. Now that Friday/Sunday/Holiday Rentals – 37 events Watertown Business Discounts Applied – Watertown has a street tree inventory data- • Overcharges – 2 out of the 37 went 18 events base, Town staff will be able to more easily overtime; additional revenue Watertown Resident Discounts Applied – keep the initial inventory updated as work Saturday Rentals – 21 events 63 events is performed and trees are planted. The • Overcharges – 9 out of the 21 went Credit Card Transactions Applied – final report produced in October 2008 overtime; additional revenue accounted for 4,376 street trees with Norway 34 events (new for 2008) 129 Events for 2008 maple (Acer platanoides) dominating that • This number includes both corporate number with a count of nearly 40%. and social events 4 – Town-related comps: • middle school fundraiser; historic awards; Health Department; Town Hall holiday party

Cannon at the Commander’s Mansion

116 Summary of 2008: Promotional Efforts for 2009: We have created the Celebration Package. The Commander’s Mansion held steady in This year’s Wedding Faire will be a two- The Commander’s Mansion together with the wake of the weak economy. We were day event (last year we only hosted it on Custom Catering by Domenic & Anthony has able to hold onto our repeat corporate Sunday), therefore doubling the revenue come up with numerous menu options and business both for off-site events and year- for this event. a reduced house rental for the off-peak end holiday parties. The significant change seasons, which consist of the months of For the 2009 season, which consists of we witnessed had more to do with the scale January through April. May through October, the Commander’s of the events which affected the caterer. Mansion will erect a temporary White pole Currently we are working on a Bereavement The mansion hours are typically 9 am to tent on the brick patio. Collaboration Package. 3 pm Monday through Friday (hours are between us and Taylor Rental/Party Plus in Together with the Center for Digital Imaging adjusted based on events). We offer one Haverhill has allowed us to offer our clients Arts (a division of Boston University in late night per week to accommodate the a significantly reduced price for outdoor Waltham), we are redesigning the website. clients who are not able to meet with us tented events. We plan to increase revenue during normal business hours. This step as this would be a separate fee from the We will continue to promote the mansion alone has increased sales. Our staff consists house rental itself. through website-related links and, but not of two – Tammy McKenna/facility manager limited to, press releases sent to related and Rae Grassia/assistant facility manager. print publications. The events contractor is Charlene McGann. A few of our Favorite Moments ... We had a few home repairs that we are currently addressing such as a heating coil in one of the units, the A/C coil in one of the units (to be addressed at a later date), roof leaks, interior ceiling repair/repaint and a few cosmetic items along the way. We purchased a new freezer unit in March. It would have cost the same amount to fix the compressor so it was decided to purchase a new one with a warranty. Cosco Landscape was hired this past summer to maintain the grounds; together we have come up with a priority plan which involves adding additional greenery and perennials versus planting annuals to save money. Chris Hayward worked with us and we were able to plant a few trees on the back side of the property as well as work- Wedding Faire ’08 ing with DPW to prune the existing trees. We were able to completely eliminate the snow removal expense; we will continue to work with Beal Management and Unicco on this ongoing task.

Groom arriving on horse Grape arbor set-up for an Indian wedding

117 Community Development Pleasant Street Corridor Study/ Zoning District: The Pleasant Street Corridor Zoning District has been adopted and is now being implemented. The first projects are now being discussed and hopefully some will be before the Planning Board in the near future. Expedited Permitting/43D Grant: The Town Council approved designation Bride and groom’s first dance – front parlor Commander’s Mansion – side lawn/pathway of the former Boston Scientific property as a Priority Development Site (PDS) under MGL c. 43D on April 22, 2008. • The PDS designation enabled the Town to receive a Technical Assistance Grant through the Interagency Permitting Board (IPB – a division of the Executive Office of Housing & Economic Development). • DCD&P staff implemented this grant with the acquisition of GeoTMS permitting software. This will allow for improved efficiency and effectiveness of our permitting process. Front of the Commander’s Mansion Looking in the study off the veranda Economic Target Area (ETA): The Department successfully worked with the Massachusetts Office of Business Development to achieve designation as a Regional Technology Center under the Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP). The Town is now able to negotiate Tax Increment Financing (TIF) agreements with developers that propose to create a significant number of new jobs and enhance the tax base. The program can result in a significant incentive for prospec- Bridal party on the veranda tive businesses. We will utilize this tool as a part of our economic development efforts. Postcard Notification: We have instituted the use of postcards as the primary format for mailed departmental notices. This represents a savings for not only postage, but also envelopes and staff assembly time.

Wedding ceremony in the Grape Arbor

118 Economic Development Initiative largely the responsibility of the Department and we hope will lead to approval of the (EDI) Earmark: of Conservation and Recreation to carry out grant application. Staff is also pursuing The Department submitted an application to the restoration of the park and to maintain grant applications for open space preserva- HUD through Congressman Markey’s Office it once restored with the assistance of local tion, economic development, supporting for use of the $73,500 that was approved to partners. We have also suggested this as a the Library in a sustainability grant, as well perform an economic development study. project for the potential economic stimulus as economic stimulus funding for various Staff has been working closely with Kathryn package that may come out of the new projects. Madden on the scope of work for the study presidential administration. Coolidge School: which has been developed. We hope to 1060 Belmont Street: This innovative reuse of a historic structure actually receive the funds shortly and begin The Department is currently working with in Town has now moved from concept to work on the study largely through consult- Watertown Community Housing (WCH) on reality. While construction progressed, the ant services. a project that will convert 18 housing units project developer worked with their con- Regional Planning: into permanently affordable rental apart- sultants to develop the affordable housing As examples, staff serves as a member of ments for income qualified individuals component. The marketing program and the MAPC Inner Core Committee, as repre- and families. The Watertown Housing lottery system were presented and approved sentative to the MBTA Advisory Board, Partnership (WHP) has approved approxi- by the Council. In early 2009 the lottery member of Executive Board of Directors of mately $300,000 in HOME Funds and the was held. Marketing and the sales of units Massachusetts Tree Wardens and Foresters, Town has committed an additional award is ongoing. and we also attend MPO meetings to proof $250,000 in Affordable Housing mote Watertown’s efforts to have TIP proj- Development Funds towards this project, ects funded. which has begun. Watertown Square Parking Study: Board and Commission Orientation: This project has been reviewed by the Staff has initiated a new orientation pro- Committee on Economic Development gram for newly appointed members of & Planning. We are currently considering Town boards and commissions. This pro- a different approach to the study and vides an opportunity to orient new members engaging in discussions with the consultant to their role and the rules and regulations and committee. that they are charged to implement. Watertown Landing: Curb Committee: DCR has secured adequate funding so that, The Planning Office is organizing this effort in combination with the Town contribution, to create clear Town policy regarding the project can proceed. A contract has curbs, sidewalks, planting strips, and on- been awarded, and work will commence in street parking. This will be important to early 2009. have a consistent approach to the Town’s upcoming road projects. Charles River Park Improvements (Charles River Road): Grant Applications: This public/private planning partnership Acquisition and coordination of various between the Solomon Fund, the Town of state and federal grants for economic Watertown and the DCR has resulted in a development, open space and trees, infra- complete set of plans and granting of structure, affordable housing, and other necessary permits for the restoration of community needs. Staff has prepared a a riverfront park in Watertown. This is a CDBG grant application in cooperation with critical link in the regional Charles River Watertown Community Housing. The senior Reservation system. This project will also population is growing as a percentage of allow us to plan and commit to a more Watertown residents, therefore the grant is sustainable partnership approach to aimed at providing services to meet the programming and maintenance of this needs of this population. Public hearings resource. It is, and will continue to be, and a survey have helped determine needs

119 The Watertown Public Schools

The Schools tiative is part of the systemwide effort to studies, and Vera Larkin in science. These align curriculum across grades K–12 and core Curriculum Coordinators are working Watertown High School to continue to facilitate the smooth transi- with middle and high school teachers to ver- Watertown High School completed its tion from Watertown Middle School to tically align the curriculum so students will 159th year of operation in 2007–2008. Watertown High. have seamless academic transitions from Punctuating the academic year, 192 stu- grade to grade, particularly from 8th grade Through 2008, Watertown High School dents celebrated their graduation at the to 9th grade. commencement ceremony in the Kelley continued to provide students with oppor- Gymnasium on Friday, June 6, 2008. tunities beyond the school day with a The curriculum continues to be strength- wide array of extracurricular activities. The ened by the increased availability of tech- P. Michael Noftsker served his fifth year as drama department presented the musical nology and digital resources in the middle Headmaster. He and his leadership team Cinderella, the new Robotics Team won school. This year students and teachers of housemasters, Katherine DiNardo and a National Award, and the girls field hockey have access to two additional mobile class- Michael McDermott, continued to guide the team and the boys basketball team enjoyed room laptop carts, giving the middle school high school through the NEASC recommen- competitive and successful seasons in the a total of four computer labs (three mobile, dations and coordinated the district and Middlesex League. Expanding technology one stationary). Teachers are working hard school professional development programs. access and extracurricular offerings, to use the technology effectively in their Under the direction of Dr. Ann Koufman, Watertown High also became a member instruction. We are using our wireless Assistant Superintendent of Schools, the of the Virtual High School and now offers mobile labs to their fullest capacity and high school expanded its use of educational students the opportunity to take online most of the building has wireless network technologies with major equipment deploy- courses as part of their studies. access. In the coming months, we will con- ments. Because of resources made available tinue to update our hardware and digital Watertown High School looks to the through the Capital Improvement Plan, resources to meet the teaching and learning 2008–2009 school year for even greater every classroom teacher at WHS now has demands of the 21st century. a laptop and LCD projector. Students use opportunities to expand technology use computers daily from the four new mobile in the classrooms and beyond, firmly com- The middle school MCAS scores continue laptop carts. mitted to serving the students of Watertown to rise for the fourth straight year. These by offering a curriculum that provides scores are above state averages in all As a result of this growth, teachers are the rigorous education needed to foster grades, all subjects, and all subgroups. integrating technology more seamlessly into content-rich 21st-century learning. However, like most middle schools, these their curriculum, submitting period by improvements in scores do not yet meet all period attendance electronically, and con- Watertown Middle School Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) standards tinuing to increase the functionality and Watertown Middle School (WMS) remains and our focus continues to be on meeting effectiveness of their classroom websites. committed to challenging students with rig- those goals. Our MCAS improvements have Parents now have access to their child’s orous curriculum and instruction, support- resulted from developing and implementing attendance/biographical records, progress ing all students who are having difficulty in literacy blocks and strengthening academic reports and report cards. Through the school, providing students challenging support programs. Teachers and adminis- vision of our Assistant Superintendent, the and engaging enrichment opportunities, trators have spent considerable time, assistance of a task force, and the technical promoting a positive school climate that energy, and resources enhancing the read- expertise of Webmaster Dan Dressler, the caters to the needs of the early adolescent, ing curriculum to ensure all students are high school website was redesigned to keep and effectively connecting with parents and proficient readers by the time they enter parents, community, staff and students bet- other community members. high school. This past year, we created ter informed about high school initiatives literacy blocks for 6th grade students so and classroom curriculum. The administrative team of Principal J. Kimo that they now have the same teacher for Carter, Assistant Principal Jason Del Porto, both English and reading classes. As a Also new this year, the Curriculum Coordi- and Special Education Coordinator Penelope result, the literacy curriculum is stream- nators at the high school in English, math, Giannakopoulos is in its fourth year. This lined and more efficient, so that 6th graders social studies and science expanded their year curriculum leadership is now directed have a stronger foundation in reading and job responsibilities to oversee curriculum by 6th–12th grade Curriculum Coordinators: English Language Arts. development in grades 6, 7 and 8 in addi- Jennifer Montgomery in English, Dan Wulf tion to their existing roles as coordinators in mathematics, David Sheehan in social for the grade 9–12 curriculum. This ini-

120 Academic Support programming is also The emphasis at the middle school on com- enhance their learning through the use more accessible for struggling students this munity service continues with the annual fall of images, video clips, voice threads, and year. The academic assistance classes con- Coats for Kids drive. Last spring, the Pennies spreadsheets. Students in grades 2–5 also tinue to serve any student who is having dif- for Patients drive earned $26,150.25 for the use FASTT Math and Type-to-Learn. ficulty in school. Likewise, our schoolwide Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Within Students do their research online and have binder system has helped students organize their homerooms, students created Thanks- learned how to present information and their time and materials for success. Staples giving baskets for families in need, and, demonstrate knowledge through effective Print and Copy Center have provided stan- along with the staff, hosted an afternoon tea visual presentations. Teachers use LCD dardized boxes of school supplies for all with elderly residents. projectors daily to present lesson material students. The after-school Library Learning and information to their students. Middle school administrators and teachers Lab continues to be a successful option for are making a concerted effort to communi- Kindergarten through grade 3 classroom students who need or want help on their cate with parents and reach out to the com- teachers began implementing a consistent homework. This year, the spectrum of munity. In addition to constant and active scope and sequence in phonics and phone- services for special education students communication via phone and e-mail, par- mic awareness in 2008. Additional reading expanded to include language-based classes ents also learn about upcoming events with interventions are also reinforced by the in English, reading, and mathematics. automatic phone messages, the Eagle’s Nest reading specialists. Teachers are using The integrated emotional support services Newsletter, and a much expanded school Month-by-Month Phonics and Words Their program continues to serve students and website. All teachers are being encouraged Way to help the youngest students learn all families with emotional needs. This pro- to use a classroom website to ensure better of the letter sounds which form the core gram is a collaborative effort amongst communication and provide access to cur- knowledge base for every strong reader. teachers, social workers, psychologists, and riculum resources for both students and Reading assessment continues at all grades, other professionals. It gives students and parents. but in grades K–3, students take a new families the additional help they need dur- online assessment called Measures of Every day we strive to ensure the success ing difficult situations, while at the same Academic Progress (MAP). This data pro- and happiness of our students. Watertown time providing students access to the cur- vides teachers with individualized infor- Middle School is a school that the Town riculum and holding students accountable mation and a roadmap for specific and can be proud of, and it is a credit to the for their actions. targeted instruction. entire Watertown community – staff, par- At Watertown Middle School, staff, students, ents, students, and other community mem- The Cunniff continues to enrich after- and parents work together to provide a very bers – that we have made such substantial school offerings. The Cunniff Kids News, positive school culture for students. The progress in such a short time. now in their second year, has expanded. WMS “recipe for success” is represented Students work with both an editor (parent by the school mascot – the eagle, because Cunniff Elementary School volunteer) and an assistant editor (Cunniff “A Watertown Middle School Eagle SOARS: This year, the Cunniff Elementary School, teacher) to research and write stories that Supporting others in Success, Ownership, led by Principal Stephen Billhardt, has 270 pertain to the Cunniff, to the community, and Achievement, Respect, and Service.” We students in 14 classrooms. Given the fact to Watertown. To read the stories and high- celebrate student success in a variety of that there were 15 new teachers and staff lights, click to the Cunniff Kids News online ways. Seventh and 8th grade students who last year, hiring this past summer was rela- from the school website or go directly to: demonstrate the SOARS tenets are eligible tively quiet. This school year Cunniff wel- http://teacherweb.com/MA/WatertownCunniff for “Eagle Liberties,” privileges that are comed a new kindergarten teacher, a Elementary/Newspaper/H0.stm. often only given to high school students. part-time special educator and two new A new program called All-Star Sports Part of our emphasis for nurturing a posi- instructional assistants. began in the fall, and is under the direction tive school culture is to teach students of Physical Educator Greg Marcotte. On Teaching and learning continues to flourish about bullying and teasing, and especially Mondays Mr. Marcotte works with students in the use of digital resources because of what to do as a bystander. Finally, the peer in kindergarten through 2nd grade, and new technology in the classrooms. Twenty- mediation program is growing. Led by our on Tuesdays he works with students in four new Dell laptops helped to strengthen Guidance Department, peer mediators are grades 3–5. This fast-paced hour entertains educational programming and classroom trained to help students resolve conflicts students while providing them with a practice. The 4th and 5th graders typically with one another. rigorous workout and instructing them use PowerPoint, Excel, Word and Web 2.0 in team-building skills. applications to present information and to

121 The Cunniff School continues to provide an In 2008, although MCAS scores were con- professional development enhances our environment for students to excel academi- sistent with 2007 MCAS performance, they teachers’ ability to use these tools to cally, socially and emotionally. Our multi- did not reach AYP in English Language Arts. improve teaching, learning, and commu- disciplinary and talented staff collaborates Math scores did meet the criteria for AYP nication. This year, teachers in grades to provide an optimal learning environment status. Faculty at the Hosmer, in conjunc- K–3 are beginning to use Measures of where children are successful and empow- tion with colleagues in the other elementary Academic Performance (MAP) to assess ered in their efforts to grow and learn. schools, continue to work together to early reading skills. MAP data helps teach- improve classroom practice and curricu- ers plan instruction to meet the wide range Hosmer Elementary School lum to ensure student achievement. of student needs. FASTT Math, a math fact fluency program, is used 2nd through 5th The Hosmer School community is led by The early childhood programs across the grade. Our faculty continues to identify and co-Principals Anne Hardiman and William district, which include the kindergarten employ new digital tools for instruction. McCarthy. The school motto defines the classes, pre-kindergarten class and expectations for Hosmer students, staff and Hosmer’s Early Steps Integrated Preschool The Hosmer School, in collaboration with parents: “Hosmer is a place where we are: are all preparing for reaccreditation by the district curriculum task forces, continues to respectful of ourselves, others and our National Association for the Education of identify appropriate instructional strategies school; responsible for what we say, do and Young Children. This process is focused on and allocate resources to support all stu- learn; hardworking by doing our best with assessing best practices in educating our dents in reaching high levels of achieve- determination; and, successful by showing youngest learners. Teachers are responsible ment. Hosmer also has new instructional what we know and learn every day.” for collecting evidence that shows imple- support programs for students with social- The administration and the faculty continue mentation and success of best practices. emotional-behavioral challenges, language- to expect and reinforce these principles A site visit to evaluate these programs is based learning disabilities, and autism. expected in the spring of 2009. throughout the day. Full school assemblies Building stronger home-school-community are scheduled on six-week intervals As of July 2008, the Hosmer School was no partnerships is a district and school- throughout the year with a focus on articu- longer identified as a Title I school. As a based goal. With support of the PTO and lating these core values and strengthening result, Title I funding to support supple- Site Council the Hosmer school parents them in students. A subcommittee of the mental services for students at Hosmer was worked collaboratively with the school to Hosmer School Improvement Team plans eliminated. Through reallocation of fund- enrich school life for all members of our assembly activities and has increased staff ing, the administration maintained reading community. For example, in September and student participation in the assemblies. support services; however, the district was “Co-Principal Coffees” were introduced to The Hosmer School Improvement Team unable to maintain a math specialist posi- nurture school communication. Each coffee also campaigned to identify a mascot and tion at the Hosmer School, which has features a focused topic such as: enrich- school colors to nurture a strong sense impacted math enrichment activities and ment opportunities, progress reports, par- of community spirit. A schoolwide vote extra support for Think Math instruction. ent conferences, and school safety. Parents have the opportunity to hear about and ask was taken on potential mascots and the Technology resources continued to increase questions on their specific interests. Hardworking Husky received the most at the Hosmer School in 2008. Laptop votes. The Husky symbolizes persistence, computers were distributed to classroom Hosmer School parents continue to collab- endurance, hard work, team collaboration, teachers and many other staff members orate with the school to provide enrichment and resilience. Red and white were selected received upgraded desktops or laptops. clubs for students beyond the school day. as the school colors to align with the black, Availability of computers in classrooms for Math Enrichment Clubs for Grade 2–5 give red and white of Watertown High School. students has been enriched with additional students the opportunity to explore prob- Hosmer School is committed to the district mobile laptop carts for students. The wire- lem-solving games and activities that chal- goal “to raise expectations, challenge and less Internet connection at the Hosmer lenge mathematical thinking. The Roots & support all students so that they reach high School is very limited at this time, but it Shoots program promotes environmental levels of achievement as measured by multi- is currently under construction. We are awareness and responsibility. A 4th and 5th ple assessments.” The 2007 MCAS results expecting to receive full wireless capacity grade Literary Club edits and publishes show that the Hosmer School improved its in classrooms by next year. the Hosmer Hogwash, which highlights Hosmer student’s artwork and creative performance and achieved AYP (Adequate Teachers are using technologies to support writing samples. Yearly Progress) in English Language Arts. instruction in all academic areas. Focused

122 The Hosmer School strives to demonstrate Parent-Community Volunteer Coordinator and other drugs. This activity was funded respect for learning in our diverse commu- continues to actively solicit volunteers and through a grant provided by the Watertown nity. Each member of the Hosmer Commu- match talents and needs to classrooms. The Education Foundation. nity strives to be responsible for working School Site Council monitors the implemen- In addition to a strong coaching staff hard and achieving success every day. tation of the School Improvement Plan (SIP) already in place, this year welcomed several and directs attention to the development of new outstanding coaches to Watertown Lowell Elementary School the new SIP for June. High School. The Watertown Savings Bank The Lowell School, led by Principal Dari At the Lowell School, supporting teachers Community Fitness Center located at Donovan, has a diverse population of about through meaningful professional develop- Watertown High School (open from 2:30 pm 400 students, pre-kindergarten through ment is an ongoing effort. Talented teachers to 6:30 pm), manned by Coach and science 5th grade, in 21 classrooms. A dedicated continue to engage in the use of technology teacher Brian Brewer and Watertown Police team of support personnel, in a variety of to collaborate, inform, instruct and create. Officer George Hoffman, offers students roles, collaborate with classroom teachers The K–3 reading initiative has supported personal strength and conditioning. to meet the challenges of the diverse needs teachers in delivering the most effective For these and many other reasons, there is of students. instruction in early reading skills and has great enthusiasm and optimism at WHS been well received and much appreciated This year, the school faculty has placed a regarding our athletic programs. We have by the instructional staff. The implementa- strong emphasis on curriculum develop- much to celebrate and take pride in, and tion of Think Math is well underway with ment and implementation. The continued strongly believe the best is yet to come. implementation of the new Think Math supportive professional development through grade level meetings. program along with new practices and Career & Technical Education resources in the area of reading acquisi- It is only through the commitment, dedica- Department (Grades 6–12) tion, K–3, have been exciting to watch. The tion, collaboration and effort of students, The Career & Technical Education (CTE) Lowell School, along with the other elemen- parents, teachers and the community-at- program continues to give students mean- tary schools, also participated in the pilot large, that Lowell School succeeds in its ingful, challenging, educational experiences implementation of a new online assessment mission to provide the very best educational to gain the knowledge, skills, competencies, system, called Measures of Academic outcomes for all the children. self-confidence and self-esteem they will Progress (MAP). need to lead a successful life in today’s The infusion of technology into the school Departments and Programs quickly changing society. The CTE program is making a tremendous difference in the includes the areas of Business Education, Athletic Program way both teachers and students work and Family & Consumer Science, Industrial learn in their classrooms. All teachers now The overriding mission of Watertown High Technology, and Media & Production. have a laptop and are able to plan, prepare School Athletics is to achieve excellence in Students participate in authentic, challeng- and deliver instruction more efficiently and every aspect of our program. We aspire to ing projects that involve collaboration, creatively. In addition, with the use of the be the very best – athletically, academically technology, creativity, problem-solving, and new projection devices, the presentation and administratively. high-level communication. These projects of instructional materials is more readily Watertown High School student-athletes prepare students for college and/or further accessible to all students. New mobile lap- have performed at the very highest level advanced training in career pathways. top carts provide much needed access to in the classroom. The overall GPA of A year of planning brought exciting new information, tools and computer-assisted Watertown High School student-athletes is courses to the Career & Technical Education instructional software for the students, right at an impressive 3.16. The Raiders also are Department. These courses upgraded the in their classroom. very active in the community, participating program offerings in Industrial Technology The PTO offers tremendous financial in many community service projects. and Media & Production. Co-taught by staff support, parent education, community Watertown High School Athletics conducted from the Career & Technical Education and gathering opportunities and educational a pre-season meeting with parent/guardians Science Departments, the Engineering by enrichment. The collaborative effort between and their student-athletes in grades 9 Design course was implemented in the fall teachers and parents to provide vibrant and through 12. The focus of the meeting was of 2008. This course, which is based on the novel assembly experiences continues to student athletic and extracurricular eligibil- curriculum developed by the Museum of enhance the schoolwide community. The ity regarding the use of alcohol, tobacco Science, gives students the opportunity to

123 create projects that meet the standards of In the Industrial Technology program, the Ed Tech Program strives to ensure that stu- the Massachusetts Science and Engineering/ students studying CAD (Computer-Aided dents are prepared to live and work in the Technology Frameworks. Meanwhile, two Design) created 3D drawings for the high 21st century, effectively using information, new courses were designed in the Media & school’s spring play and redesigned the communication, and problem-solving tech- Production program and are being taught in stage layout while the electrical students nologies to be lifelong learners. The Ed the cable TV studio – Interactive Journalism, did repair work for the Art Department’s Tech Program aims to accomplish this by and Interactive Visual & Audio Media. These kiln and assisted in the installation of new providing leadership, instruction, and equi- courses give students the exciting opportu- lighting for the wood shop. The Computer table access to resources for all students nity to learn the tools of interactive video Repair students continue to benefit from and staff. and to explore and use the myriad of ways local businesses in consulting on technical This year various technology initiatives to integrate digital music and video into problems. Several students also worked continued to enrich student learning and project-based learning. part-time for local companies. Meanwhile, faculty professional development. Initiatives the students in Wood Shop designed, built Financial literacy continues to be of include: and installed projects such as: a compost utmost importance for students. Within the bin for the high school courtyard, an • Expanding and improving high-speed Business Education courses of Accounting In-focus projector stand for the Science Internet access and Economics/Finance, students are learn- Department, and a printer/laptop table for ing about, and working on projects that • Expanding and improving the network the English Department. involve budgeting, credit cards, banking, infrastructure, including wireless mortgages, foreclosures, and auto loans. Media & Production students continue to capabilities and data storage They are building competencies in learning be engaged in learning in the state-of-the- • Continuing to deploy laptops and how to make positive financial decisions art WCAC cable TV studio located in the projectors to classroom teachers and to live in the real world. In 2008, high school. These students showcased • Continuing to deploy mobile laptop carts students in Accounting classes once again their work in June and continue to be help- for student use in classrooms worked with Bentley University students to ful to their peers working on assignments • Investigating net books with a “cloud” develop a business plan for the community for different courses as they acquire skills computing environment service arm of a company and presented in filming, editing, podcasting and media the plans at Bentley University before a production. • Renovating and enriching the district, panel of businesspersons and professors. school, department/program, and The Middle School Technology Education This was a fantastic authentic learning classroom websites program was enriched by the introduction of experience for these students. • Updating the K–8 instructional Scratch programming in grade 7. The grade technology and library media learning The Raider Café Luncheons for teachers 8 technology classes worked on projects outcomes to align with 21st century were once again a culinary highpoint and involving the Holocaust or China in collabo- skills and integrate with Massachusetts delighted the students in the Food Services/ ration with their history classes. The building curriculum frameworks Hospitality classes as they planned, of wind turbines, water rockets, and robotics • Implementing professional development prepared, and served these luncheons to continues to excite and challenge our middle Technology-In-Practice mini-courses various faculty. The students participated school students as they learn through kines- heartily in an authentic learning experience thetic, hands-on projects. • Implementing the Measures of Academic which was a culmination of their learning Progress online assessment program in All of these authentic projects within the through Foods & Nutrition and Food grades K–3 Career & Technical Education curriculum Services courses. The Advanced Child • Continuing to support faculty with provided meaningful, stimulating, demand- Development students earned 80 hours curriculum and technology integration ing, and motivating learning experiences for towards Early Childhood certification as projects and software (such as GIZMOs, our students. they worked as interns at community pre- FASTT Math, and Web 2.0 tools) schools. Among the highlights for the beginning Child Development students were their Educational Technology Program English Department (Grades 6–12) (Grades K–12) research projects and presentations on birth Reading, writing, and understanding their defects, a Piaget workshop for children ages The Educational Technology Program is a world continued to shape students’ experi- 3–5, and a one-day at Boston Children’s combination of Instructional Technology, ences in their English classrooms, even as Hospital visiting its various departments. Library Media, and Technical Services. The the organization of the English Department

124 evolved and changed in 2008. The primary the Writers’ Workshop model in their class- In October, a group of students also change has been the transition to a grade rooms, and they are striving to incorporate founded Writers Ink, a new writing club 6–12 secondary English Department rather this work with their commitment to teach- dedicated to promoting excellence and cre- than discrete middle school and high school ing students “Six Traits” writing skills. ativity in all genres. Supervised by Malcolm departments. This change will help provide Cooke and led by WHS juniors Awesta The middle school English/Language Arts students with the most coherent and best- Yaqhubi and Nare Gukasyan, the students of program also provides additional options aligned English curriculum possible as Writers Ink have been meeting twice weekly to improve students’ reading skills. All 6th they move from grade to grade and from to craft essays, poems, short stories and graders register for a literacy block, and Watertown Middle School to Watertown High. novels. Writers Ink members also created specialized reading teachers provide extra their own website at writersinkwhs.word- To facilitate this change, English teachers in classes for students with language-based press.com to post their work and kicked off grades 6–12 now meet together on a regu- learning disabilities and for students who the winter with a two-hour coffeehouse in lar basis to discuss curriculum alignment will benefit from more intensive reading January 2009. The evening featured poetry and professional development. Also, the instruction in anticipation of the reading- recitation, singing, music and dance from English director and curriculum coordi- intensive secondary years. Additionally, WHS students and faculty and was written nator is no longer a 9–12 position, but teachers at all levels work closely with the up in the Watertown Tab (print and video). rather a 6–12 position. The Department middle school’s ELL teachers to maximize would like to extend a warm welcome to the academic success of ELL students. The English Department is also hosting a Jennifer Montgomery, the new grade 6–12 Visiting Writers Series, a program designed At the high school, students continued their Curriculum Coordinator. Because English to strengthen community partnerships by focus on analytical reading, expository and teachers in grades seven and eight teach bringing local writers to WHS to share their persuasive writing, and communication both English and social studies under a experience and expertise with students. skills. They also received extensive training humanities umbrella, the English and social This year, journalist Elaine McArdle, essay- in English-oriented research and analysis studies coordinators are now working ist Rebecca Tuch and slam poet Reggie skills, which culminate in the Senior Thesis jointly with middle school teachers on the Gibson have visited and we look forward to Paper (STP). The STP, written in steps over 6–12 transition. others in the spring. the first semester, requires students to Students in the middle school grades focused demonstrate their proficiency in academic English teachers 6–12 have also been on reading and writing and on studying research, analytical thinking, critical note- working on key professional-development English and social studies in interdisciplinary taking, outlining, critical analysis, and initiatives. These include curriculum map- humanities classes. Featured projects and source citation. In addition to offering ping to study the content and alignment of events included creative writing and perform- college-prep and honors courses in grades the taught curriculum in grades 6–12 and ances of original scary stories, the attainment 9 and 10, students may take Advanced continued work on technology in practice. of greater fluency in reading, the study and Placement courses in grades 11 and 12, and Each teacher received a laptop in the fall, writing of memoirs, the study and perform- they may also choose to study humanities or and most now have LCD projectors in their ance of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s contemporary literature in their senior year. classrooms. Teachers have been working Dream, the in-depth study of the Holocaust on learning about classroom blogging, The high school has also added a journal- and its implications using the Facing History Universal Design for Learning, E-Pals, ism course and has resumed the publica- and Ourselves framework, and a community- and many more digital resources to raise tion of the student newspaper The Raider oriented civic participation project called student achievement. Teachers are using the Times under the advisership of Maurin “Choosing to Participate.” laptop/projector combination a great deal O’Grady. Community members may view the in order to add more visual elements to Students from both the middle school and current issue by visiting the WHS homepage their instruction and to engage students in the high school also participated in the and using the clickable link to a digital interactive, Internet-based learning. Martin Luther King, Jr., essay contest spon- version of the newspaper. Students in the sored by the World in Watertown. Winning English Department also published Word Teachers in grades 6–10 also worked with students from WMS and WHS read their Painter, the school’s student-produced their students on MCAS preparation, and essays at the memorial breakfast. journal of creative writing and poetry. selected students in the 10th grade for an English teacher Phyllis Porter served as the elective MCAS-prep course in order to In their ongoing efforts to boost students’ Word Painter advisor for the 2007–2008 receive additional instruction. writing skills and interests, many of the school year; Vivienne Mulhall took over the teachers attended training in implementing position as of September 2008.

125 The middle school reading program has of Elementary and Secondary Education Several students won awards for their art grown from one teacher focusing only 8th require that all teachers of ELLs participate work at the annual Globe Scholastic Art grade instruction, to three teachers who in a professional development program in Competition. The annual K–12 all-school art teach all three grades. In 6th grade, stu- order to work effectively with these stu- show at the Watertown Mall in March drew dents take reading as part of their English dents. In response to this mandate, profes- a large crowd at the opening reception. class, however, about 40 students with qual- sional development programs for district The music program continued to expand its ifying MCAS scores also have the opportu- staff who teach ELLs were provided. These offerings, led by increased usage of Orff nity to start a foreign language. In grades professional development programs instruments and computerized music nota- 7 and 8, students who need extra reading involved out-of-district courses offered by tion programs at the elementary level and support take a specialized reading class. EDCO as well as courses that took place in increasing numbers of participants in the Students are placed in specialized reading district schools. instrumental and vocal ensembles at the based on performance on standardized The ESL Program staff developed an English middle and high school levels. The music tests and on teacher recommendations. The language development (ELD) curriculum program presented concerts to enthusiastic foundation of the middle school reading during scheduled professional development audiences in May and December, as well as class is independent reading and responses days in the school year and in a summer at the annual Bandarama Concert in the to that reading. Students learn strategies workshop. The ELD curriculum is differen- WHS Gymnasium in March. Several WHS for reading and understanding expository tiated for students at different levels of students were selected, through compe- texts similar to what they will use in future English proficiency. In addition, it is linked titive audition, for Massachusetts Music classrooms and beyond. A main goal is to to English Language Proficiency Bench- Educators Association Eastern District help students be more positive about read- marks and Outcomes for English Language Senior and Junior Music Festivals. ing by guiding them towards the genres Learners (ELPBO) and the Curriculum which interest them. The music ensembles all performed con- Frameworks. certs for members of the Watertown com- English as a Second Language Districtwide translation and interpretation munity at venues such as the Watertown Program (Grades K–12) services were implemented in 2008. Com- Mall, the Town Hall, and the community The Watertown Public Schools has a commercial firms were utilized for translations Memorial Day and September 11 cere- prehensive educational program for English of school and district information and doc- monies, as well as in-school support per- language learners (ELLs). The goal of the uments. A system of on-call interpreters formances at events such as the “Night of program is to provide students with the was provided for parent/teacher confer- Excellence” and the “Program of Studies skills to function successfully in an English ences and school and district events. Night.” The WHS Pep Band performed at speaking environment. There are two com- home football games throughout the fall ponents to how ELLs are educated in the Fine and Performing Arts Department season and welcomed alumni performers to school district. The first component is (Grades K–12) rejoin the group at the annual Thanksgiving English language development (ELD). ELD The visual arts program has continued to Day game against Belmont. instruction facilitates proficiency in speak- expand both its traditional media and tech- Music teachers have made extensive use of ing, listening, reading and writing in social nology enhanced art programs. Student the recently purchased hand-held digital and academic settings. Teachers holding enrollment requests for visual art courses recorders, one for each building in the ESL licenses teach ELD in district schools. continue to be high. Enrollments remain district, for use in classroom and concert The second component involves sheltered robust in the advanced studio arts classes, settings. In addition to recording student English instruction (SEI). SEI is taught by preparing student portfolios for collegiate presentations and classroom rehearsals and classroom and content teachers and other art school admissions. The advanced com- activities, teachers use the recorders for staff who provide instruction to ELLs. SEI puter graphic design/web design program individual performance assessments. helps ELLs learn required subject matter at WHS, led by Dan Dressler, visual arts Teachers have also used the new units for while at the same time promoting their instructor and Webmaster for the district, is recording musical examples and uploading English language proficiency. now using state-of-the-art software, prepar- them onto their classroom websites for ing students for potential careers in the digi- ESL Program Initiatives in 2008 have student homework and home practice. tal graphic arts. Numerous examples of included professional development, student art from all levels of the district are The WHS ensemble groups undertook curriculum development, and translation available for viewing online, both on the dis- several collaborations this year, including services. The Massachusetts Department trict website and on classroom websites. combining strings and band members for

126 a WHS full orchestra performance at director Beth Peters and WHS chorus direc- Towards this goal of reorganization, teachers Bandarama in March. The annual Spring tor Dan Wulf; a student-written, produced in grade 6 geography, in grades 7 & 8 Concert in May included a combined per- and acted play, coordinated by Ms. Peters, humanities, and in grades 9–12 social stud- formance of Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” in the spring; and the play Harvey, directed ies met periodically to begin the long-term with the WHS chorus, alumni, faculty, and by middle school teacher Abigail Cordell, in process of evaluating the content, skills and members of local area church and com- the fall. The middle school drama program assessment techniques across the curricula. munity choruses. Members of the string presented two one-act plays, Any Body Initial steps have followed a curriculum ensemble presented a chamber music con- for Tea? and The Babysitter, directed by mapping analysis format which facilitates cert in April, combined with a senior visual Abigail Cordell, in the spring. ongoing pedagogical and content discus- arts exhibition. In addition to playing at sion and revision. The FAPA Department has devoted profes- Bandarama in March, the vibrant strings sional development time and resources to The grade 9 and 10 programs remained program at the elementary level, led by working on several long-range curriculum focused on a two-year, United States history Sharon Woodworth, and middle school projects. After the visual arts staff piloted an curriculum that reviewed successful teach- level, led by Dr. Frederik Schuetze and initiative to create documents articulating ing techniques, upgraded instructional Art Wallace, performed Winter and Spring an important art concept through the cur- materials and evaluated assessment tools, Concerts, including a performance by riculum K–12, the piloted format was all with the goal of establishing a strong over 150 string players grades 4–12 of an adopted by the entire department. As a foundation for individual student success. arrangement of “The William Tell Overture” result, the department created documents In May, sophomores took the MCAS exami- by Rossini. and unit plans demonstrating how FAPA nation component in United States history, The 7th–8th grade band combined with curricula are conforming with state frame- a graduation requirement for the class of the 7th–8th grade string orchestra creates works and are progressing correctly 2012. Many students continued to partici- a full orchestra numbering over 65 players. throughout all grade levels building on pate in out-of-school learning experiences, Together, the band and string orchestra prior student skills and experience. All such as visiting museums and historic sites, performed successfully at both the Spring FAPA teachers now have individual class- and hosting guest speakers. and Winter Concerts, as well as at room websites for announcements, home- Students in the United States history pro- Bandarama. Bandarama featured over 300 work, and interactive web-based learning gram competed in the spring in the annual instrumental musicians grades 4–12 per- for students and families. In order to sup- Historical Society of Watertown essay conforming in a gala concert in the WHS port the district goals about planning for test. The Historical Society recognized three Gymnasium before an huge audience. the future, the FAPA faculty worked together essayists for their outstanding research on The playlist included a grand finale of to create a proposal for “bolstering the such local, historical topics as Harriet Mussourgsky’s “Great Gate of Kiev,” per- arts” in the Watertown Schools. Elements Hosmer, the Aetna Mills, the Watertown formed by the combined Watertown High of this proposal will be implemented as Arsenal, and the Perkins School for the and Watertown Middle School orchestras. funding becomes available. Blind. Students completed their year’s study The “band instrument” option in the 4th with independent study presentations or by Social Studies Department grade instrumental program, in addition (Grades 6–12) taking the national Advanced Placement to the existing strings option, continues to exam in United States History. The high school’s social studies curriculum grow. Members of the Girls’ Select Chorus continued to be revised to reflect the state- Beginning in September, the grades 3–12 won high honors at a music festival in mandated frameworks, to further advance teaching staff became actively involved Agawam, MA in the spring. The elementary district, school and departmental goals and in the first year of a five-year Teaching choruses, under the direction of Sara to respond to the ever-changing demands of American History grant, funded by the Patashnick (Hosmer) and Anthony Spano preparing all students for a global society. United States Department of Education. (Lowell and Cunniff), performed at the all- The departmental staff continued to address Through content-based professional devel- elementary concert at the WHS auditorium the recommendations of the NEASC report opment, all teachers certified to teach U.S. in June, and at building-based concerts in as well as to attend to curriculum review history began to sharpen their instructional December. The Hosmer chorus also sang and revision in light of the Superintendent’s skills and refresh their historical knowledge during December at the Watertown Mall. goal of reorganizing the Social Studies by participating in programs sponsored by The drama program presented several Department into a 6–12 structure. the Gilder Lehrman Institute, Museum of highly successful shows, including the Fine Arts-Boston, Peabody Essex Museum, musical Cinderella directed by WHS drama Plimoth Plantation Museum, and Boston

127 University Graduate School of Education, to the following areas: psychology, law, civics, The social studies teaching staff continued name a few. economics and Asian history. These courses to improve curriculum content, assessment utilized numerous community resources to tools, and instructional methodology. Staff As part of the school district’s professional enhance instruction, such as the Project members took content-based courses at development plan, all members of the Youth Program at the Old Colony Prison, Primary Source, Project Citizen, and Boston teaching staff also participated in the first the Watertown Police Department, and the University Graduate School of Education. half of a year-long collaborative action Massachusetts Bar Association, to name a They also toured the curriculum resources research project, focusing on the improve- few. All courses were electives and concen- at the John Adams Homestead and Museum ment of learning and instruction in level trated on preparing students for college- in Quincy, Massachusetts as well as the one sections of the two-year United States level instruction and assessment. newly restored Edmund Fowle House, home history program. Particular attention was of the Historical Society of Watertown. given to skill development and content The grade 12 Civics course was particularly retention in anticipation of increased stan- noteworthy since it continued to connect Staff also attended training sessions in dardized testing. soon-to-be graduates with local, state and Advanced Placement instruction, College national civic groups. Students participated Board seminars, and regional, state and The grade 11 social studies program con- in the annual Student Government Day at the national conferences, such as the National centrated on a World history curriculum statehouse, competed in the annual Veterans Council for Social Studies, the Conference that continued to refine the study of cultural of Foreign Wars “Voice of Democracy” essay on Civic Education, the Bill of Rights diversity, political institutions and global competition, and participated online in the Institute, and the Association for Super- humanitarian issues. The central focus of Youth Leadership Initiative where students vision and Curriculum Development. the course was the study of non-govern- across the nation voted in a mock presiden- mental organizations (NGO). Throughout The Social Studies Department’s integration tial election. Students used digital resources the year, students worked with representa- of technology into both instruction and such as CNN video podcasts to remain tives of Invisible Children, a Ugandan-based assessment is ongoing. Through partici- updated on current political events. NGO, to discuss the plight of Ugandan chil- pation in the Technology-in-Practice dren and to coordinate communitywide As part of the commitment to connect component of the district professional fundraising activities. In addition, in April, young people with decision-making experi- development program, teachers are learn- World history students, in conjunction with ences, Civics students continued to step for- ing to create and use classroom websites, the WHS Armenian Club and the Armenian ward and served on the Student Advisory blogs, PowerPoint presentations, and National Committee, hosted an assembly on Council to the Massachusetts Board of various curriculum software. The newly the Armenian Genocide. Guest speakers Education, the Watertown High School Site refurbished social studies computer lab remain an integral component of the World Council and other building-based commit- at the high school continued to be an history program. tees. Guest speakers included political important instructional resource. candidates, state officials, and speakers in The World history program continued to Social studies teachers maintained a close the fields of law enforcement, finance and emphasize the importance of writing and relationship with community and regional presidential election politics. research skills on a broad range of global resources, such as the Veterans of Foreign issues such as hunger, gender equity, The Social Studies Department worked for Wars, Watertown Citizens for Environmental environment, and economic development. a second year on the Pathways to China Safety, Historical Society of Watertown and Students worked towards becoming Program, a curriculum effort to bring the Armenian Library and Museum of “experts” in understanding the missions Chinese studies and travel experiences to America, as well as the Watertown Rotary and the challenges facing NGOs and the both students and teaching staff. Students Club, the Watertown Town Council, and students presented their findings to one took summer courses on Chinese culture various religious and secular organizations. another. In the Advanced Placement and completed projects in preparation for In January, the department oversaw the European history course, students met the their trip to China in April. The program Martin Luther King, Jr. essay competition, rigorous, college-level standard in prepara- continues as we head into the new calendar sponsored by the World in Watertown tion for the national exam in the spring. year and it is anticipated that the Watertown organization. The winning student essayists contingent will be comprised of two teachers were recognized at the annual Unity The grade 12 programs offered a variety and more than a dozen students from 8th Breakfast held on Dr. King’s birthday. of courses at different levels, including through 11th grades. Advanced Placement psychology. Watertown The Social Studies department maintained students concentrated on one or more of its longstanding commitment to help

128 qualified graduate students to enter the from grade 11 to grades 9 and 10, in order The Focus on Math (FoM) grant, funded teaching profession by accepting interns to prepare students for the new upcoming by the National Science Foundation, has from neighboring colleges, such as MCAS test. This meant changing the grade 8 continued to provide opportunities for pro- Simmons, Lesley, Bridgewater State and course to World History, formerly taught in fessional development. The Watertown High Framingham State. Mentoring teachers met grades 9 and 10. School math teachers attended seminars in regularly with student interns and college- Chelsea, Lawrence, Arlington, and Waltham In grade 8 the students start the year with level educators to discuss the connection as well as a seminar led by Karen Trenholm, a unit called “Facing History and Ourselves” between study and practice. Watertown math teacher, on the topic of which uses the study of the Holocaust to Statistics. The Watertown Study Group, a In all social studies courses, both teachers explore fundamental historical questions mathematical research team comprised of and students continued to work together and themes. Then the students go on to several of our high school teachers and a to master content while cultivating critical- study China, the Middle East (focusing on professor from Boston University, had an thinking skills, all in an effort to become understanding the rise of Islam), and article published in Mathematics Teacher intelligent and well-informed citizens. Europe in the Middle Ages and Renaissance. – The National Council of Teachers of Instruction and curricula strive to broaden Teachers continue to stress process skills, Mathematics in May. The article is called student understanding of the world and to such as research competencies, media “Delving Deeper: Heron Triangles and lay the foundation for each student to literacy, reading and note-taking strategies, Moduli Spaces.” Karen Trenholm also led become a lifelong learner. writing in the discipline, and vocabulary a one-week summer seminar on “Exploring development, as well as content knowledge. Watertown Middle School social studies Topics in Statistics, Probability and Finance” curriculum is carefully aligned with the with participants from all five Focus on Mathematics Department Math school districts. 2002 History and Social Sciences Curricu- (Grades 6–12) lum Framework. The curriculum is shaped The increase in students taking Algebra I in Finally, the Math Department hosted the 5th by the MCAS test, given in grade 7, which 8th grade led to changes at the high school. Annual Math Fair in the high school library, covers World Geography and Ancient Students who were not ready for Geometry at with over 135 projects and over 200 stu- History. The grade-by-grade curriculum is: the high school were given a second year of dents participating. Watertown contributed Grade 6 students study World Geography, Algebra in 9th grade. A new course was intro- twelve posters to the Museum of Science with an emphasis on cultural as well as duced for seniors to review high school math annual Math Expo hosted by FoM. The physical geography. The World Geography along with topics in Precalculus in order to grant has been extended for a sixth year curriculum includes study of Europe, Asia, help prepare them for the SATs and college and our participation continues. Africa, and Australia (North and South mathematics. The MCAS scores from the May On the technological frontier, Karen America are covered in grade 5.) Teachers 2008 testing were the strongest ever pro- Trenholm trained to be Watertown High emphasize geography skills as much as duced by a class at the high school, with 81% School’s first Virtual High School teacher. content. of the students achieving proficient or better She is teaching AP Statistics online begin- on their first attempt on the exam. Even more The grade 7 curriculum focuses on Ancient ning with the 2008–2009 school year. impressive was the 56% of the students who Civilizations, starting from Early Man and This will replace one of her courses at scored in the Advanced category. continuing through the Mesopotamian Watertown High School. In exchange for Civilizations, Egypt, Greece and Rome. The professional development programming her teaching time, Watertown High receives Again, teachers focus on process skills such continues to thrive. Combined work with the 25 student seats per semester for students as comprehension strategies and note-tak- middle school Math Department has led to to take online courses. ing, informational writing, mapping, and further improvements in the transition from Finally, 40 high school students in advanced vocabulary as well as on content. 8th to 9th grade. At the beginning of every math courses took a challenging national department meeting, teachers grappled col- In 2004, the grade 8 curriculum switched math exam, the American Math Competi- lectively with a math problem in order to from U.S. History to World History. The tion. All did well, and three moved on to explore how they approached each problem Department of Education changed its grade the next exam (the American Invitational and how students perceive and think about 10 history assessment from World History Math Exam or AIME, for short), which was mathematics. Math teachers committed to U.S. History. As a result, the Social even more challenging. William Steadman, significant planning time to further aligning Studies Department renovated the high a 2008 senior, qualified based on his AIME the courses they teach in order to provide a school curriculum by moving U.S. History score for the USAMO (United States of coherent, progressive math curriculum. America Mathematical Olympiad). This is

129 an honor given to approximately 500 Health Education curriculum for Grade 9 $5,000 to Mr. Duggan and $5,000 to students nationwide. Will’s score on the follows the current state module for Watertown School Science Department, USAMO (a nine-hour, six-question exam Teenage Health Teaching. Students regularly was used to buy equipment for expansion given over two days) placed him amongst use the new laptops for health research and of the physics curriculum in the 9th grade the top 25 students in the country. their projects include Internet study and physical science classes. PowerPoint presentations. The department In August, 14 Watertown High School Physical Education & Health faculty continues to participate in profes- students and two faculty members – Department (Grades K–12) sional development opportunities that science teachers Erik Hiltunen and Lynsey The Physical Education & Health Depart- prepared them to improve the health cur- Kraeme – along with two other tour guides, ment offers a comprehensive curriculum riculum on controlled substances, alcohol took the trip of a lifetime to explore the that is aligned with the Massachusetts and sex education. continent of Australia. After arriving on the Curriculum Frameworks and the NASPE East Coast city of Brisbane, these “Raiders Standards. Science Department (Grades 6–12) Down Under” spent three days and nights The high school’s science curriculum con- At the elementary level, students receive 40 in Kroombit at a working ranch in the tinued to be revised to reflect the state- minutes of physical education per day and Outback. There, they experienced horse- mandated frameworks, to further advance health education is integrated into the phys- back riding, goat mustering, searching for district, school and departmental goals and ical education curriculum. In addition to (and finding!) wild kangaroos, hiking, bush to respond to the ever-changing demands of teaching a sequential curriculum and teach- dancing, throwing boomerangs, cracking preparing all students for a global society. ing to the Massachusetts state standards, whips, eating food cooked over an open The departmental staff continued to address PE teachers in the elementary schools had fire, star gazing and discovering new con- the recommendations of the NEASC report students participate in the Jump Rope for stellations under a completely new sky, as well as to attend to curriculum review Heart Program, and teachers also offered wall climbing, and riding a mechanical and revision in light of the Superintendent’s before and after-school activity programs to bull. The next stop was Cairns, along the goal of reorganizing the Science Depart- increase activity levels in children. Northeast coast of the country. Cairns ment into a 6–12 structure. highlights included exploring the Daintree In September of 2008, a .5 adapted physi- Towards this goal of reorganization, teach- Rainforest (the world’s oldest living rain- cal education (APE) position was added ers in grades 6 through 12 met periodically forest – approx. 120 million years old), to our department offerings, which has to begin the long-term process of evaluating swimming under waterfalls, taking a gon- provided students of special needs in the content, skills and assessment tech- dola ride through and above the rainforest, grades preK–8 with physical education that niques across the curricula. Initial steps and snorkeling and SCUBA diving on the is geared to their specific needs. have followed a curriculum mapping Great Barrier Reef. The trip concluded with The middle school physical education analysis format which facilitates ongoing four more days in the heart of Australia’s program emphasizes student fitness. pedagogical and content discussion and largest city, Sydney, home of the iconic Health education is integrated through the revision. This year teachers are focusing on Opera House. Here the “Raiders Down PE teaching schedule, and students also standardizing and improving the laborato- Under” learned about the colonization of receive health education in a classroom ries done in each of the lab sciences. Australians by the British and explored the setting. Teachers use new technologies to city’s parks, beaches, botanical gardens, Charlie Duggan, a current science teacher teach students how to use a dietary analysis and shopping districts. This trip expanded at Watertown High School, was awarded the program. This exciting curriculum unit has student horizons, giving them a chance to Amgen Award in 2008 for his application of enhanced their focus on fitness. New activi- explore an area of the world that could rotational dynamics to the Yo-Yo project. ties in the high school PE program include never be simulated in the classroom. Students are challenged to build an object speedminton (racket sport); Omnikin, a Preliminary preparations for a return trip in the image of a yo-yo that meets a set of European activity that promotes teamwork; in 2010 are already getting underway. criteria where the goal is to traverse the golf; and additional fitness activities for 9.4m distance down the center staircase of Engineering by Design is a new high school Project Adventure. Students are also learn- the high school in the longest time possible. course, designed to pique students’ interest ing to develop individualized fitness plans. The award recognizes Mr. Duggan for his in the field of Engineering and to “demystify” application of the science curriculum to the discipline. It is co-taught by Matt projects that stimulate creativity and Loughran and Vincent Ciarametaro, and the problem-solving techniques. The award, curriculum is based on the National Center

130 for Technological Literacy and Boston’s a variety of projects in many languages, professionals, people new or returning to the Museum of Science Engineering the Future from original storybooks read by the workforce, newcomers to the United States, curriculum. Professional development for authors, to studio-produced music videos people of all ages who seek a fun, active the course is provided by the Museum of on YouTube. Some students worked with alternative to their usual evening routine. The Science, a leader in STEM (Science, Tech- Vera Ventura, media teacher, to prepare program offers courses in a wide range of nology, Engineering, and Math) education. their multimedia projects. All of the proj- subjects including ceramics, drawing, water- There has been state- and nationwide recog- ects demonstrated hard work, growth in color, beading, mosaics, computer basics, nition of a need to revitalize and bolster the learning, and genuine talent. International intro to eBay, digital camera, walking STEM disciplines, and we are confident and foods, prepared by the students, added tours, belly dancing, tap dancing, ballroom excited about this course’s potential to spice and flavor to the day. dancing, golf, aerobics, estate planning, move our district in that direction. getting organized and the History of Water- The World Language Department is town.Watertown Adult Education coordinated exploring how to expand the introduction World Language Department the fifth Town-wide Yard Sale in May 2008 in of languages to grades K–5. The overarch- (Grades 6–12) which over 100 families participated. By pop- ing goal is to have a K–12 World Language Due to retirements and transfers, ular demand this is now a much-anticipated program in place in the next several years. Watertown Middle School has a brand new annual community event. Several administrators are looking at world staff of world language teachers. The world language programs in other districts, both The Before School Program offers quiet language teachers at the high school have locally and nationally, to see what type of supervised activities for children Grades been working closely with the new middle program and what language(s) will best pre-K through 5 before the regular school school teachers to acclimate them to the serve Watertown going into the future. day begins. The Extended Day Program district and to introduce them to the cur- provides safe and enriching after school riculum. In September of 2009 the first Student Services Programs care for children Grades pre-K through 5 group of students who started the new until 6:00 pm daily. The program supports grade 6 accelerated world language classes Community Education cognitive, social, emotional and physical will become freshmen at the high school. Watertown Community Education is a self- development. The daily schedule includes The teachers at both schools have been sustaining program of the Watertown Public homework time, gym or outside exercise meeting regularly to plan this transition and Schools. The goal of the program is to time, computer time and arts and crafts. to ensure its smoothness. These freshmen build partnerships that meet the needs of Enrichment activities vary from year to will be the first class to start year III of the the adults, families and children in year but often include community service language that they began in grade 6. Watertown. The program includes Adult projects, nutrition and exercise workshops, Students who started their language in and Community Education evening classes, face painting and special programs such as grade 7 will begin year II of their language the Before School Program at all three ele- live animal shows and pony rides! This when they become freshmen at WHS. mentary schools, Courses for Kids at the year the community service project was to The middle school language program has a elementary schools, the Hosmer Extended provide holiday donations to the Women’s new curriculum and new texts for Spanish Day Program, the Cunniff Voyager Program, Lunch Place in Boston. The end of the year and Italian. As the middle school students the Lowell Extended Day Program, after- family night was a dinner dance. Families transition to the high school, the new cur- school activities at the middle school and ate and danced together and it was a riculum series for both languages will also Summer School Programs for children wonderful evening. be phased into the upper level curriculum. pre-K through grade 12. Our mission is to In addition, the program offers coverage Along with the many digital resources avail- provide high quality out-of-school-time for early release days, full-day programming able in the new curriculum, foreign lan- programming that supports engagement for February and April vacations and eight guage teachers have been participating in a in learning, positive youth behavior and weeks during the summer. The program professional development course about promotes lifelong learning. also offers an emergency drop-off service using ePals. ePals is an online pen pal pro- The Adult and Community Education at both Before and Extended Day for par- gram that brings together teachers and stu- Program provides exciting, low-cost learning ent/guardians who may have a commitment dents from all parts of the globe. opportunities designed to answer the or an urgent matter to attend to on an In May, a Day of Celebration was held at needs and interests of Watertown’s diverse occasional basis. Watertown High School. Students presented adult population. The Adult Program Courses for Kids is an after-school enrich- to their peers in other classes, showcasing provides courses for working people and ment program offered at the elementary

131 schools that provides classes such as art, Nursing closely with the elementary principals and scrabble, hands-on science, drumming, The school setting offers unique opportuni- staff to assure smooth transitions and con- chess, French and karate. The Watertown ties for children to learn healthy behaviors tinuation of appropriate support services, Middle School offers tuition-based enrich- through education and to receive easily once a child is age eligible for classes in ment clubs, such as the art mural club, accessible, comprehensive health services. the elementary school. karate, drama, robotics and the scratch club. Each school has a full-time school nurse. Elementary Special Education Watertown Community Education also pro- The school nurses are a liaison between vides an exciting Summer Program that home, school and community regarding Specialized Instruction to helps families plan a summer full of enjoy- health concerns of students. Their goal is Support Inclusion able, varied, and meaningful activities for twofold. First, nurses encourage healthy Each of the elementary schools has a their children. This was the second year of behaviors through education programs and Specialized Instruction to Support Inclusion our Summer Explorations Program, which is mandated health screenings to prevent Program. These services are provided by an eight-week, full-day project-based learn- health issues from arising. Second, nurses the special education teachers. Students ing program for all students entering kinder- assess the chronic health needs of students who receive services include those on IEPs. garten through Grade 5. Academic courses and treat their acute needs so that students Students receiving these services typically for students in grades 6–12 are designed for can reach their educational potential. During have a diagnosis of a specific learning dis- students who wish to improve a low or fail- the 2007–2008 school year, the Watertown ability. Teachers provide in-class support ing grade. The curriculum is geared toward nurses recorded over 16,000 student visits. with some discrete out-of-class support in building skills as well as meeting credit the areas of literacy and math. Development requirements and is based on the individual Preschool Special Education of instructional strategies, organizational needs of the students enrolled. In July 2008, The preschool special education program is skills, motivation, responsibility, and self- eight middle school students received proj- referred to as the “Integrated Preschool advocacy skills are emphasized. Specific ect-based math support in a class entitled Program” (also know as the Hosmer Early social and emotional skills are addressed Boat Building 101. The students built a 7'7" Steps Preschool). These integrated and sub- as needed. Students receive individualized Nutshell Pram at WHS and launched the boat stantially separate multi-aged classrooms instruction based on their evaluations/con- at the Watertown Yacht Club. The class was are staffed according to the individualized sultation with the classroom teacher as an partially funded by the last cycle of the 21st needs of the students. The curriculum is ongoing activity. Related services such as Century Grant. designed to fulfill goals and objectives for speech and language, counseling and preschool students in their social, emo- occupational and physical therapy may Guidance tional, cognitive, language, and physical also be included. The Watertown Guidance Program provides development. A collaborative team activities, interventions and services which approach is utilized in this program that Language-Based Classroom involves: general education teachers, assist students in achieving their maximum A Language-Based Classroom at the Hosmer special education teachers, instructional personal development, both as individuals School supports students grouped by their assistants, consulting psychologists, occupa- and as learners. Guidance and counseling learning needs. The classroom services a tional, physical and speech therapists. are vital components of the educational small group of students for their school day Parental involvement is critical to the suc- process which help students recognize their where instruction and class discussion are cess of this program. There are several abilities and needs, and develop strategies teacher-directed, with the teacher modeling instructional models including; half-day and to realize their full potential. The primary language and continually encouraging stu- full-day programming, discrete specialized role of the guidance staff is to implement a dents’ responses to elicit, elaborate and services, consultation to parents and com- developmental guidance program that will model language. Students are active partici- munity providers, and developmental help all students acquire skills in the edu- pants in the learning process, with the screening. The Preschool Intake Review cational, social, and vocational areas neces- teacher ensuring that each student is inter- Team screens and assesses children aged sary for living in a multicultural society. acting with the material to increase their three through five years based on a referral Guidance counselors act as student advo- comprehension. cates and work closely with other educa- from early intervention programs, the med- tors, parents and community members ical community, parents or others. Children Highly structured, small group interaction to provide opportunities for students to served have a wide range of disabilities and is essential to the language-based classroom. develop the skills necessary to lead produc- diagnoses that indicate a need for educa- There is a focus on language processing tive, fulfilling lives. tional support. The Preschool staff works and linguistic skills. Class instruction and

132 information is presented in a highly struc- include field trips and other “real-life expe- co-leading social skills groups, facilitating tured, organized manner, using multi-sen- riences.” Ongoing assessment is provided social lunch groups and supporting sory methods to support comprehension in areas of concern. Consultation and direct students on an individual basis for short- and to emphasize important concepts and service in social, emotional and behavioral term and long-term support. The Academy main ideas. Previous lessons are reviewed regulation is provided. Strategies are taught interns have also filled several roles with new information integrated and related to self-monitor, self-soothe, request assis- throughout the school on an as-needed to old information. Lessons spiral back to tance, and manage stress. basis supporting classroom behaviors, previously learned material for review to providing detailed observations of student Professional development, support and time ensure continue mastery, and to relate to behavior and also assisting when appropri- to collaborate are provided to team mem- new information. ate in crisis interventions. bers working in the program. Ongoing Applied Behavioral Analysis Classroom home-school communication is built in to The licensed mental health professionals provide support and consultation. Teachers provide direct service and consultation Cunniff School has a specialized Applied provide ongoing work with all students to while in the buildings, on a weekly basis. Behavioral Analysis classroom. This class- promote the understanding of disabilities The mental health professionals lead room is specifically designed for students and strategies to help all diverse learners groups focused on leadership and social diagnosed with autism spectrum or related engage with peers. Adapted specials/lunch/ skill development while providing direct disabilities, and provides a predictable recess is provided as needed in a small consultation to the teachers who are structured environment in which behavioral group and facilitated by a team member. working with the students in the classroom analysis (ABA) programming is used to environment. Through the role of consult- teach appropriate skills. The classroom Opportunity Room ant, the professional attends IEP and team services a four year age range, grades 2 to 5. At Lowell School there is an Opportunity meetings to assist in the assessment, inter- The class is staffed and designed to provide vention development, and support for the specialized instruction and home-school Room. This is a therapeutic space designated to provide ongoing behavioral and students and families being serviced along collaboration. Students in the classroom par- with supporting the teachers. The consult- ticipate in the life of the school and general emotional support to students. The space is staffed by the Behavioral Specialist and the ant is also available to be contacted when education classrooms on an individualized not in the building on an as-needed basis basis appropriate with their needs. Behavioral Instructional Assistant. Students are able to access the space for breaks, Middle School Comprehensive Learning Support time-out space, adapted lunch/recess groups, and as a quiet work space. A schoolwide Special Education Lowell School has a Comprehensive behavioral rubric is used when needing to Learning Support program that provides deal with disciplinary issues. Students sent Inclusion Support services to students with significant needs. for time-out will fill out a process form with The middle school inclusion program is There is the flexibility to provide substantial, adult assistance to document any behavioral intended for special education students with extended periods of instructional time to be issues, help the student take accountability moderate to significant needs who are able spent in an annex classroom with a special and develop behavioral alternatives that are to manage the grade level curriculum but educator in a 1:1 or small group (as safe and appropriate. require modifications in various curriculum needed). This addresses particular areas areas. Students are assigned inclusion serv- where presentation, process, and products Academy ices for only the areas of disability (i.e., if need substantial modification, or at times a student has a math disability and requires The Academy of Physical and Social when attention and/or anxiety negatively significant assistance in class, inclusion for Development has provided six graduate-level impact the child’s ability to participate. math class is appropriate). A special educa- mental health interns and two licensed men- tion teacher, instructional assistant or Title In the Comprehensive Learning Support tal health professionals, providing services 1 tutor provides inclusion support. program students are able to participate in at the Hosmer, the Lowell, and the middle inclusion programming throughout the day schools. These Academy interns provide when appropriate. Curriculum alternatives direct service to students to assist in their Academic Assistance may be selected to provide access to key overall social and emotional development This class is intended for both special and concepts and skills, in a manner and with the goals being centered on school regular education students who require sequence appropriate for each student success, increased self-esteem and social reteaching, preteaching and more exposure (e.g., math, reading, written expression, skill development. The format for the direct to content area curriculum. This class daily functioning/life skills), which may service from the interns has been through is co-taught with one special education

133 teacher and two content area teachers. Students in this program cannot meet grade the academic day. Students who are As a part of this program, students receive level expectations and require a small group referred for counseling services must have progress reports on a regular basis. All spe- instructional setting for content area cur- an Emotional Disability specified in their cial education students are enrolled in this riculum. Students participate in several IEP and an associated counseling goal. class every other day for 42 minutes. adventure trips throughout the year to Counseling is intended to help a student enhance team building and self-confidence. develop strategies to remain in school and Resource Room Based upon individual student needs, IEP access the curriculum. It is not intended to The resource room is intended for students Teams determine if a student will benefit be a substitution for outside therapy. IEP who have significant deficits in their basic from inclusion in a content area for social Teams determine the frequency and dura- skills and require specialized instruction and interactions or content enrichment. tion of the counseling session. Typically remediation in order to succeed in the con- students are seen once a week for either tent area. The classes are small group (i.e., Integrated Emotional Support 30 or 42 minutes. five to six students) and taught by only a spe- Program (IESP) cial education teacher. All students partici- The integrated emotional support program Speech-Language pating in the resource room class must also is open to regular and special education Students who have been identified with a take the academic assistance class. Students student who have been identified with an Communication Disability are eligible to are enrolled in this class every other day for emotional disability or behavior challenges. receive speech-language services. Speech- 42 minutes. Enrollment is limited in order to The program has two separate domains. Language services follow a consultative ensure small group instruction. model at the middle school and focus on One domain is for students who require articulation, receptive and expressive skills frequent or daily check-ins with the school Self-Contained Language-Based (written expression skills are addressed social worker or other support staff around Instruction Classroom in Academic Assistance). Typically stu- their emotional and behavioral needs. dents receive pullout or in-class services. This classroom is designed for students with Students can also access the program for Additionally, there is a social pragmatics the ability to learn but who require significant behavior stabilization and respite services group that is co-led with a counselor from structure and clearly defined expectations (i.e., students who have been discharged the Academy that serves students with social in content area classes for reading, English, from a hospitalization or recent trauma). pragmatic deficits. Students must have an and math. The classroom curriculum is con- This domain is open to all students (504, associated speech-language goal or social sistent with Massachusetts Frameworks and general, and special education). MCAS for each of the three grade levels. The pragmatics goal on their IEP to be eligible focus of the class is to help students foster The second domain is a self-contained for speech-language services. self-confidence and a willingness to accept program for students who require content responsibility for being an active learner. The area instruction in a structured environ- Structured Reading class size is limited to six to eight students. ment that emphasizes a clear behavioral Structured reading groups are designed for Instruction is in a small group format and component. Students in this program have students who have been identified with a individualized. A variety of language-based been identified with an emotional disability reading disability and have significant diffi- instruction techniques are used, such as: and demonstrate extreme difficulty partici- culty with applying the sound and syllable highlight essential information, visual mod- pating in mainstream classes with supports system for reading and spelling. Instruction els, semantic mapping and ongoing consul- and accommodations. Students receive all is based on a structured reading approach tation with speech language pathologist for content area classes in the self-contained that includes multi-sensory learning experi- language and vocabulary development. program (reading, English, history, math, ences. A reading instructor teaches students Students receive inclusion support for both and science). All students have a daily in small group formats (four to six students). science and history. Additionally, students behavior log and participate in the class The structured reading groups occur twice participate in a counseling group once a behavioral system. This domain is open to a week for 42 minutes. week to address their learning style and students who are eligible for special educa- other issues affecting academic achievement. tion services and on the recommendation High School of the IEP Team. Enrollment is limited. Special Education Learning Support The learning support program is intended Counseling Academic Support for students with significant deficits either Counselors are available to meet with stu- Academic Support services at Watertown cognitive, developmental or language based. dents individually or in small groups during High School provides daily support to

134 students in grades 9 through 12 in all aca- employment or continued education classroom teachers in following best prac- demic areas. Students are usually referred by upon graduation. tices for educating students on the autism the Guidance Department, parents or other spectrum. The Melmark consultants also Developing the social skills of students is an teachers. The teacher and instructional assis- train faculty who provide home-based integral part of the program. Instructional tant support students to complete projects, services to families. These services support support and direct instruction in specific prepare for tests, organize their assignments, families in their interactions with their chil- content areas are provided on a daily basis. and do homework. Collaboration with teach- dren at home and in the community. This program includes developmental life ers, guidance counselors, administration, skills courses in each of the following con- The goal of the Melmark work is to build parents, and therapists are other important tent areas: English, history, math, reading, capacity of Watertown faculty to provide aspects of the support provided. and science. quality services to students on the autism spectrum. The Melmark consultants meet Specialized Instruction to Support Inclusion Transitions to Work regularly with administrators to review current programming, and plan new program- Specialized Instruction classes provide Watertown High School recognizes and ming and training as needs indicate. organizational and study strategies to help acknowledges the necessity for all students students with disabilities included in gen- to have the opportunity to gain awareness Specialized Services eral education classes succeed. This course and understanding of the world of work also supports enhanced literacy skills. while developing appropriate work behav- The following related services are offered at Collaboration between student, general iors, social and life skills. A job coach the preschool, elementary, middle and high education teachers and the academic assists students in the transition toward the school levels to students who qualify for the support teachers is an integral part of this world of employment. The program works specific services. closely with community-based employers to course. The learning format includes, but is • Speech and Language Therapy enhance the experiences of participating not limited to: 1:1 instruction, small group • Occupational Therapy instruction, monitoring and reinforcement, students, supporting them in the develop- applied academics, homework strategies, ment of skills and relationships that lead to • Physical Therapy/Contracted Services evaluation of strategies and skills, and aca- successful transitions into the world of • Psychologists (testing and consultation demic test monitoring. work. This program is incorporated into services) the student’s overall schedule and requires • Counseling, Clinician Support 18 to 20 hours of work weekly. Require- Counseling & Academic Program (one-to-one, group therapy by Wayside ments include weekly meetings with a The Counseling & Academic Program (CAP) Youth and Family Services, Colony Care, coordinator or job coach; an in-house is designed to serve students with social and The Academy of Physical and Social internship to prepare the student to transi- emotional disabilities. The program provides Development) tion into the workforce; submission of academic, emotional, and behavioral sup- weekly pay stubs; quarterly performance • Specialized Reading Instruction (Orton- port to students at risk for outside placement evaluations to assess students’ progress; Gillingham, Wilson Reading Program, in either clinical day, residential, or hospital a midterm and year-end graded project; one-on-one and small group instruction) programs. Some students may be transition- and, development of a program newsletter • Behavioral Consultation ing from hospital programs and more as part of the student’s evaluation. • Behavioral/Social Services (Walker restrictive settings into the public school School Services) environment. Students generally participate Districtwide in all regular classes; occasionally extended • Vision Specialist Support (Contracted stays within the CAP may be appropriate. Special Education services, Carroll Center, Perkins School) Autism Services • Instructional Tutoring (one-to-one or Developmental Life Skills Services for students on the autism spec- small group on specific instruction) The Developmental Life Skills Program trum in Watertown are overseen through These services are typically provided was created to encourage student involve- a contract with Melmark New England. in-class. However, there are times when ment within the community. This program Two educators, board-certified in behavior a student requires “discreet” out-of-class is designed to increase student knowledge analysis, provide training and consultation interaction. With all these related services, of basic academic skills as well as activities to faculty and families. These consultants consultation to staff and parents and evalu- of daily living. Functional in its approach, provide program support to individual stu- ation services are provided as needed. students move toward the world of dents based on their IEPs, and they support

135 Voting Results

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