JANUARY 25, 2009
A S e c o n d L o o k a t t h e N ew s
This Week:
This Old House
40B or Not To Be
Speaking of Billerica
Running on Empty
Winter Wonderland
Farmer in the Dell
Odds and Ends

Chelmsford
and the
Old Town Halls
What to do???
http://www.lowellsun.com/local/ci_11450223
Chelmsford considers a conversion of town hall
By Rita Savard, rsavard@lowellsun.com
Updated: 01/14/2009 06:45:10 AM EST
CHELMSFORD—If the walls could talk, they'd have more than 100 years of stories to tell.
Now a proposal from the Chelmsford Housing Authority seeks to place affordable housing units inside
two of the town's oldest buildings—the old town halls in North Chelmsford and Chelmsford Center.
The plan to re-develop the vacant and dilapidated buildings would bring in more than $1 million to
preserve the historic landmarks for years to come, said CHA Executive Director David Hedison.
\"It will breathe life back into the buildings,\" Hedison said. \"Not only will it provide much-needed
affordable rental units for residents, but it will bring additional economic development to both
centers of town, put the buildings on the tax roll and eliminate the need for on-going capital
resources from the town.\"
CHA's plan currently shows 17 studio apartments inside the Old North Town Hall, which has been va-
cant for 20 years, and 10 one bedroom units and four studios for the Old Center Town Hall, which was
closed for the winter to save Chelmsford thousands of dollars in utility costs.
By redeveloping the sites for housing, CHA can qualify for more than $1 million in preservation funds
from the state to preserve the exterior of each building. The preservation and restoration will be sub-
ject to the same standards and treatment as used on the most significant historical landmarks in the
United States.
\"It's a platinum standard of quality,\" Hedison said.
Plans for the Center Town Hall would include carving out the front section of the first floor, about 1,500
square feet of space, for community use throughout the year, including opening it up to the public dur-
ing the Fourth of July, for art shows, or other community events, Hedison added. In order to qualify for
state funding, CHA would also have to commit to generating a sum of money each year to pay for on-
going maintenance of the two buildings. Basically, said Hedison, the state wants to ensure its invest-
ment is being taken care of.
Town Manager Paul Cohen said the proposal was \"something for the town to consider,\" because
renovating the town halls would be an enormous cost burden on the town. That is why the North Hall
has sat empty for two decades.
\"Up until this point, particularly for the North Hall, it's the first time a creative proposal that's
financially viable has come forth,\" Cohen said.
It would also provide more affordable housing options for Chelmsford residents, especially for veter-
ans, young professional couples and singles, and people with handicaps.
The CHA will hold a public hearing on the issue at 7 p.m., Monday, Feb. 2,
inside the Chelmsford Police Station's Community Room, 2 Olde North Road.

http://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/homepage/x497790859/Poll-What-do-you-think-about-the-plan-to-turn-Town-Hall-into-housing
Some feedback from the
A poll being run by the Chelmsford local newspapers
Independent at last count was
message boards...
------------
must be crazy
1/15/2009 4:54:14 PM ET
What about parking ? The North Chelmsford town
hall has no parking. None is allowed on rt 40, and
the side street is posted as no parking.
The density proposed is insane for that building,
too.
---------
Good idea
#19Friday
I think it is a great idea! Why should the Town be
spending resources on taking care of building that
is not used. With all of the cut backs - we need to
focus the Town's money on buildings that are ac -
tively used and find constructive uses for those in
need of preservation. If they are going to be re -
stored what is the big problem.
I have lived here my whole life and never been in
the building. I drive by it every day and just want it
oncechumpsford to be preserved.
#22Friday ---------------
Good idea wrote: Okay
I think it is a great idea! Why should the Town be spending resources on Chelmsford, MA
taking care of building that is not used. With all of the cut backs - we need
to focus the Town's money on buildings that are actively used and find con-
con- #9Wednesday Jan 14
structive uses for those in need of preservation. If they are going to be re-
re-
stored what is the big problem.
I have lived here my whole life and never been in the building. I drive by it
Can't imagine that the 1 million would renovate
every day and just want it to be preserved. both of those buildings. Wouldn't it be wiser to try
preserved? I am surprised they didnt give it to to sell those buildings with historic restrictions
and let it be business or residential. If they don't
the schools for more office space. Its a historic
sell, close them and shut off the water so they
landmark so I am sure the historical commis - don't need to be heated. Skip the 1 million, the
sion ought to have a say. The history in that state puts to many financial strings on everything
place is more than the center town hall ever they offer and the Town is at it's limits. At its limits
saw. The workers from the old mill right next because of state mandates on the schools with
door, to the civil war vets that used the North BELOW MINIMUM FUNDING FOR
Chelmsford hall. That property should be CHELMSFORD.
------
priceless. Stop the buffoons from destroying it
Kevin
and turning it into apartments to appease their #6Wednesday Jan 14
\"not in my neighborhood\" agendas. Months
from now when you look into who renovated Wouldn't it be better to sell the buildings as office
the hall, you will notice that certain people re - space, with covenents? If the buildings are so
lated to the town officials who suggested it in hard to heat, do you really want low income in
the first place are very much involved in own - there?
ership. Thats Chumpsford pure and simple.
---------
Scott
-----------------------------
#5Wednesday Jan 14
Getting ridiculous
How dare they want to fix up an old, run down
#23Friday building that looks horrible and try to make the
Vinyl Square area look nicer. Give me a
People in this town will find any break..some people will just complain about any -
reason to **** . thing. The building looks like a piece of junk... it
would be great to see it all fixed up and generat -
Here is another productive idea and they all
ing revenue for the town. 17 studio appts arent
come out to say no, no no no no going to make a very big impact on the
nonononononononononononono traffic...thats just an excuse for you to complain
about something.
--------------

And the discussion flows over onto the TV screen as well...
“Town Talk” with Dennis Ready
Chelmsford's TOWN TALK 01-15-09 Dennis
Ready talks affordable housing and Town
Hall with Precinct 1 Town Meeting Rep
Peggy Dunn
CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO CLIP
Chelmsford's TOWN TALK - 01-15-09 -Dennis Ready talks
affordable housing and Town Hall with Chelmsford BOS
Vice Chairwomen Clare Jeannotte
CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO CLIP
And on “POLITICALLY INCORRECT” with Tom Christiano
Chelmsford’s POLITICALLY INCORRECT 01-13-09
Tom Christiano discusses redevelopment with
Selectman Eric Dahlberg,
Selectmen candidate Donald Van Dyne,
Precinct 8 Town Meeting Rep for re-election Mary Tiano,
and
Precinct 4 Town Meeting Rep for re-election Sheila Pichette.
CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO CLIP

http://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/town_info/government/x497801295/Housing-plans-for-Town-Halls-irks-many
Housing plans for Town Halls irks many
By Kevin Zimmerman/Staff Writer
Wed Jan 21, 2009, 03:45 PM EST
CHELMSFORD -
A proposal to turn Town Hall on the Common into housing has reignited Bernie
Ready’s political career.
“I was a Town Meeting rep for 20 years and now I’m coming out of retirement,”
said Ready. “The forces pushing this have done their homework. The only way to
really stop this is at Town Meeting.”
Town Meeting will have to approve the Chelmsford Housing Authority’s plan to
create 10 one-bedroom units and four studio apartments out of the Town Hall in
the Center and 17 studio apartments in the North Town Hall.
According to the Housing Authority’s proposal, the plan will help to save the two
buildings’ historical significance. “By redeveloping these sites for housing, over
$1 million of funding from Mass Historical Tax Credits can be used to preserve
the exterior of the buildings,” Housing Authority Executive Director David Hedi-
son wrote in his proposal. “Not only does this plan look to preserve the build-
ings, it provides new units that will house our residents and bring additional
economic development to both centers of town.”
But at what cost, asked Ready. “This was our Town Hall. This was a beautiful
building. It’s our Faneuil Hall and they want to gut it and just keep the façade,”
said Ready. “It will be like a Hollywood studio. You’ll never be able to go inside
and see what it looked like for real.” Ready doesn’t believe protecting the out-
side of a building justifies turning a historic structure into a moneymaking ven-
ture for the town.
Although he admits it’s a bit of a stretch, he suggests the housing plan is not
unlike officials allowing a fast-food restaurant to open in the Little Red School
House on the Common as long as the exterior remains unchanged.
“They are on this kick that if a building doesn’t produce enough money, get rid
of it,” said Ready. Ready also doesn’t understand why, after pouring money into
Town Hall to help restore it over the years, town officials are anxious to rede-
velop the building. He doesn’t buy their argument that it costs too much to main-
tain the facility.
“What better use for Community Preservation money?” he asked. “This is a nice
building to go into to look at. It is a beautiful reminder of Chelmsford’s past.
What better thing to preserve than Town Hall?”
Kevin Zimmerman can be reached at chelmsford@cnc.com.
**********************************************************************
For more information on local efforts to preserve Town Hall contact Dennis Ready at dready@comcast.net
Also, Peggy Dunn is urging that everyone attend the February 2nd public
forum presented by David Hedison and the Chelmsford Housing Authority.
And that all get involved in preserving Town Hall as a community center.
Send your comments and ideas to Peggy Dunn at savetownhall@gmail.com
or call her at 978-250-8095.

Re-Developing Our Resources to Safeguard Our History
and Serve the Residents of Chelmsford
Photos from Chelmsford Historic Commission - F. Merriam

An Opportunity to Preserve and Provide
Both Town Halls are currently closed with no plan or funding to safeguard
their historical significance.
In order to qualify for preservation funds from the State, there must be a
viable use that will address not only upfront preservation – but annual
operating funds to maintain the investment.
By re-developing these sites for housing, over $1,000,000 of funding from
Mass Historical Tax Credits can be used to preserve the exterior of the
buildings. The preservation and restoration will be subject to the
standards used on the most significant buildings in the United States.
Not only does this plan look to preserve the buildings. It provides for new
y p p g p
units that will house our residents, bring additional economic development
to both centers of town, put the buildings on the tax roll and eliminate the
need for on-going capital resources from the Town.

Making Progress in Meeting Housing
Needs
N d
Over the past five years, the Town of Chelmsford has seen an
increase in the number of rental and homeownership units for
seniors
North Village (50 units), CHOICE Center (37 units), Brianna Lynn (16 units) - Rental
Windemere, Augusta Way and Wayside - Homeownership
Private developers have completed large-scale rental projects
that have a very small affordable component that is not very
affordable.
ff
The Meadows, Princeton Commons, Kensington
Private developers have developed and continue to propose
homeownership for families of which the majority are two
bedroom town homes.
Glen Ave, Residences at Steadman, Robin Hill Meadows, Orchard Woods, Woodland Square etc.

Progress Needs to Be Made
g
Affordable Rentals for Single Individuals
We have 423 local “single” applicants that need affordable rental housing on our waiting
list. We currently have no options for people under the age of 60 that need affordable
housing.
Affordable Rentals for Young Professionals
Chelmsford has seen a major decline in this population.
Affordable
Aff d bl Rentals for the d bl d
l f h disabled
Of the 423 “single” applicants 143 are disabled applicants.
Affordable Rentals for local Veterans
Chelmsford has over 4000 veterans. Regina Jackson has indicated that affordable
housing is the number one need for veterans. We have 15 local “single” veterans under
the age of 60 in need of affordable rental housing today.

Goals for Both Projects
j
While working with the Historic Commission and District, restore and protect
historic buildings with matching funds from the state as well as using
Community Preservation Funds
Provide new affordable housing opportunities to
Veterans
Single Individuals
Young Professionals
Disabled Individuals
Increase number of residents living in downtown areas.
Provide a mix of units that are subsidized and unsubsidized to promote a
ov de o u s a a e subs d ed a d u subs d ed o p o o e
diverse economic mix.
Put these buildings on the Tax Roll in Chelmsford
Converting vacant buildings into housing will bring additional economic
benefits to the “center” areas.

The Residences at Old North Town Hall
Photo from Chelmsford Historic Commission - F. Merriam

Old North Town Hall
Preservation and restoration to Federal Secretary of Interior Standards
Analysis showed that a minimum of 17 units were needed to generate
enough income for the long term cash flow and maintenance of the
building
All units will be studios designed for single person occupancy
g g p p y
Project may be funded 100% through the Federal Stimulus package
If it is not funded from Stimulus, $3 million may be funded through the
State
$500,000 from Mass Historic and $500,000 from Community
Preservation will be needed if Stimulus funds are not available
All 17 will be rental units and provided with an on-going subsidy from
the CHA
All residents will be screened including credit checks, CORI’s and
landlord history.
Preference to local residents and veterans

Old North Town Hall
All 17 studios will count towards the Town’s 10% goal
Project must go before the Zoning Board of Appeals for approval
Long term lease for parking at the N. Chelmsford Fire Station will be
needed. This is where parking was when the building was in use
CHA is not looking for an immediate transfer of the property but is
property,
requesting an “Option to Purchase” for $1.00 from the Town to move
forward. If funding is received, the transfer would occur at a later
date
Special T
S i l Town Meeting action will be required
M ti ti ill b i d
Immediate action is necessary as stimulus funds have been requested
and the CHA must have an architect selected by March 15, 2009
If project does not move forward, the building remains the property of
the Town.

Old North Town Hall – Proposed Floor Plans
17 studio apartments
p

Residences At Veteran’s Hall
Photo from Chelmsford Historic Commission - F. Merriam

Chelmsford Center Town Hall
Preservation and restoration to Federal Secretary of Interior
Standards
St d d
Community space and bathrooms provided in front of building for
continued community use during Town functions (i.e. 4th of July, Bank
Concerts, Chelmsford Art Society etc.)
y )
The building is currently closed. Last year’s heating and electricity was
approxiamately $20,000.
$45,000 from the Town has been budgeted for painting in the next
year. Thi $45 000 could b put b k i t th b d t f use
This $45,000 ld be t back into the budget for
elsewhere.
Analysis showed that a minimum of 14 units consisting of 10 – one
bedroom units and 4 studios would be needed to generate enough
g g
income for the long term cash flow and maintenance of the building
Total development cost estimated at $4.4 million dollars
Will require some funding from Community Preservation
All units will be rental and count towards the Town’s 10% goal
Only 4 of the 14 units will have rental assistance from the CHA

Chelmsford Center Town Hall
Targeted towards Veterans, young professionals and single individuals who
desire to live in Chelmsford Center
Parking plan provides for 52 vehicles for community use for bicycle path,
parking for downtown business as well as residential needs
Project must go before the Zoning Board of Appeals for approval
New location for the Food Pantry would need to be identified such as
Westlands School or local church
Special Town Meeting action will be required
Immediate action is necessary as stimulus funds have been requested and
the CHA must have an architect selected by March 15, 2009
If project d
j t does not move f
t forward, th b ildi remains th property of th
d the building i the t f the
Town
This building will be fully preserved and protected without the need for on-
g g
going funding from the Town
g

Chelmsford Center Town Hall Proposed Floor Plan
10 – One BR units and 4 - Studios

Next Steps
p
The CHA has a limited time frame in which to move forward with these
projects due to priority funding from the Governor and the Federal Stimulus
Package.
The CHA is meeting with the Chelmsford Historical Commission on January
13, 2009 as a follow up from the December 30, 2008 contact
The
Th CHA in conjunction with other parties will h ld a public meeting on
i j ti ith th ti ill hold bli ti
February 2 nd at 7:00 p.m. at the Chelmsford Police Station
The CHA will present to the Board of Selectman on February 9, 2009
Special Town Meeting needed in early March 2009 for transfer of
properties as well as funding from Community Preservation if project is to
move forward
The CHA will work diligently towards securing funds over the next 3 to 12
months
If funding is awarded, the CHA would be required to go before the Zoning
Board of Appeals for both projects
If you have any questions regarding this presentation, please contact David Hedison, Executive Director, Chelmsford Housing
y yq g g p ,p , , g
Authority at chelmha@aol.com or david@chelmsfordha.com

Chelmsford
and 40B
Begin forwarded message:
From: Eric Dahlberg <ericrdahlberg@gmail.com>
Date: January 21, 2009 9:53:10 PM EST
To: Roy Earley <re007hq@comcast.net>, Tom Christiano
<tchristiano@comcast.net>
Subject: Billerica 40B - ZBA hearing tonight
Hi Roy and Tom,
I thought I'd drop you both a line since I know you're following
this - I attended tonight's Billerica ZBA meeting on the Aspen
Apartments proposal (672-unit monstrosity off of Rangeway).
Paul Cohen also attended. I'd say that of the ~40 people in at-
tendance, ~30-35 were from Chelmsford (one other person I rec-
ognized was Rep. Greene of Billerica).
Hearing started at ~7:45 and wrapped up ~9:30.
Following some preliminary reports from engineers, an attorney
for the Chelmsford abutters spoke at length, followed by several
folks from the audience. Paul read a comments letter from Evan
Belansky (and submitted written copies for record). I can get
you a copy of letter if you like.
Hearing continued to Feb 4th at 8:30 PM.
Eric
Thanks goes out to Town Manager Paul Cohen and Selectman Eric Dahlberg
for attending and for Eric filling us in on what happened.
The following is the letter that was read...

Residents, officials oppose
Aspen housing plan
By Chloe Gotsis/Staff Writer
Fri Jan 23, 2009
BILLERICA - Critics of a proposed affordable housing development presented the Zoning Board of
Appeals with a laundry list of objections Wednesday, ranging from the project’s size to questions about the
developer's license. Billerica and Chelmsford residents and officials urged the board to deny permits for
the proposed 55-acre, 672-unit Aspen Apartments on Rangeway Road. Road
“I do believe some of the safety issues outweigh the benefits to affordable housing,” said Pauline Brown, a
Nashua Road resident. “All of the construction vehicles and people who live there would be driving over
these gas lines.”
New Jersey-based developer Better Homes first outlined their plans for the 14-building complex in a vacant
wooded area on the west side of Rangeway Road Dec. 3. The proposed project will have three entrances in-
cluding an emergency only entryway accessed by a gate on State Street in Chelmsford. The primary way of
access will be a 35-ft wide driveway on Rangeway Rd. with a secondary driveway by Curriculum Associates.
The Billerica Board of Selectmen have also submitted a letter opposing the project, which Joshua Davis of
Freeman and Davis, LLC, the developer’s attorney, claimed would push the town from its current 6.1 percent
in affordable housing stock to 10 percent. The Conservation Commission has also submitted its initial re-
port for the project.
“ The selectmen say it’s too dense ,” said attorney Dan Hill, who represents 55
Chelmsford abutters. “ This is by far one of the largest Chapter 40B projects presented
in the state of Massachusetts and the largest in Billerica. You have a good record of
approving good affordable housing. This frankly is the opposite of smart growth .”
Hill also found issue with the developer not listing the purchase and sale price for land for the
$140 million project. He also found issue with the developer not being registered in Massachu -
setts to conduct business.
“ This is a New Jersey company, ” said Hill adding that he has serious concerns with the find -
ings of the Massachusetts Housing Partnership. “ I strongly feel these are flawed and were
made with erroneous information. One of the erroneous findings MHP made is this
will provide green space. ”
Chelmsford Town Manager Paul Cohen said there has been no official notification for the town of
Chelmsford or the abutters for the project’s proposal.
“ We have a number of concerns with the plans at this stage ,” said Cohen. “ There are
wetland resources and clearly drainage will come into the town of Chelmsford.
Consider the elevation with the respect to Chelmsford residents .”
Since the December hearing, ZBA members have become more acquainted with the site and the proposed
plans after a working session with petitioners and engineers along with a site walk.
Presently, however, Davis said his client is studying the peer review submitted by the town’s hired engi-
neering firm, Nitsch Engineering, and they could not make any further presentations.
“This process is a bit like a funnel where you star broad and work more and more into detail,” said Davis.
Steven Ventresca, the project engineer for Nitsch Engineering, said he along with his colleague, Silpa
Munukutla, went through the proposal and is recommending additional signage be added to the area. They
also suggested possibly widening the pavement of Rangeway Road if the design for the driveway required
a turning lane.
“The proponent has been suggesting that they will make a fair share of contributions to Billerica,” said
Munukutla. “We would like them to provide a dollar amount to see if it is equal to the costs of it.”
Martin Conway, traffic officer for the Billerica Police Department, also said, that after studying the three in-
tersections near the development there are some definite sight concerns on Rangeway Road and if the de-
velopment was built there would need to be significant sight distance improvement.
“We’ve had the neighbors already out there for existing problems,” Conway said. “I can only imagine their
concerns with a project this size.”
The next hearing will take place Feb. 4 at 8:30 p.m.

The panel of
Politically Incorrect discuss
the giant Billerica 40B
proposal at the
Chelmsford border
and also talk about
the other 40B proposal
on Boston Road
CLICK HERE FOR
VIDEO CLIP

POWER PLANT BUZZ
News from BILLERICAPOWERPLANT.ORG
Please share with your friends, family, and neighbors.
www.BillericaPowerPlant.org
24 January 2009
Billerica Town Meeting Member Jeanne Landers, whose power generation bylaw was passed in December at a Spe -
cial Town Meeting, has called for a question to be placed on the ballot as a non-binding referendum in order to so -
licit Billerica voter opinion on the proposed 348MW Billerica power plant. The plant, proposed for siting in North
Billerica, would be very close to residences and schools in all nearby communities, including Tewksbury, Lowell,
and Chelmsford. Click here to read the article.
ISO-NE , the organization that manages the grid in New England , recently closed its second Forward Capacity Auc -
tion. These auctions are used to establish the price and source of electricity generation in the future. The goal of
this second auction was to secure the projected electricity generating capacity of 32,528 MW for New England for
2011-2012. In fact, the auction met that goal, and did so leaving almost 15% excess supply. It is important to note
that none of the familiar proposed power plant projects -- Billerica, Brockton, or Westfield -- contributed to meet -
ing the goal. Separately, ISO-NE’s 2008 Regional System Plan lists 13,666 MW under development across New
England as of mid-March 2008, with 4,036 MW in Massachusetts alone. The implication, as we see it, is that there
is no need in the foreseeable future for the proposed fossil-fuel burning plants.
Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick is now calling for electric generation by wind power to be stepped up in the
Commonwealth, setting a goal of 2000MW of power annually by 2020. Click here to read the article. Increasing the
use of wind power makes sense, but we must also stop the development of new fossil fuel-burning power plants in
order to significantly reduce our carbon emissions. Click here to e-mail Governor Patrick reminding him of this
important point.
This week, the new U.S. Secretary of Energy, Dr. Steven Chu, was confirmed. Certainly Secretary Chu should also
be interested in your concerns about the rampant development of fossil fuel-burning power plants and the colli -
sion this presents with respect to reducing the country’s CO2 emissions, the vast strain on our already fragile
water resources, and the need to move quickly to implement non-carbon sources of energy.
You can e-mail Secretary Chu at The.Secretary@hq.doe.gov.
Meetings/Events
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
7:00PM
Billerica Conservation Commission
The Billerica Conservation Commission will continue its discussion of the Notice of Intent
filed by the developer and the review of the wetlands and stormwater management issues.
Billerica Town Hall, 365 Boston Road, Billerica, MA
Press
Click on the News tab to access recent articles.

Chelmsford
and the
S e l e c t m e n R a c e???
Matthew Hanson vies for Board of Selectmen
By David Golann/Correspondent
Wed Jan 14, 2009
CHELMSFORD - Matthew Hanson didn’t officially start his campaign
to become a selectman until last Thursday. He had hoped to grab a
Selectmen Candidate
publicity advantage by entering the race Monday, the first day it was
allowed, but life got in the way. Matthew Hanson
“I pulled papers Thursday and that was unfortunate,” said Hanson.
“I planned on taking them out earlier, but I had classes.”
classes.
For those who haven’t heard, Hanson is a 20-year-old college student. His official residence is still in his parents’
house on Wedgewood Drive and he has no plans to get a conventional day job in the private sector.
Hanson is quick to point out that his age carries certain advantages. Candidates for the Board of
Selectmen are often middle-aged residents who juggle families and full-time jobs alongside their
civic responsibilities.
“The fact that I don’t have a bunch of kids running around the house is actually a good thing,” said thing,
Hanson. “I have all my time and energy to devote to my passion.” passion.
Hanson is currently studying political science at UMass-Lowell and plans to complete the four-year program in only
three years. In the spring he will move on to graduate studies in regional economic development and begin interning
for Rep. Jim Arciero, D-Westford, on Beacon Hill.
Unlike most young political junkies, Hanson is soft-spoken and relatively non-partisan. His parents did not see this
career path coming until he started traveling to New York to participate in marches on ending the
violence in Darfur and raising awareness and research money for breast cancer.
“He was always pretty quiet and laid back, though very capable. I never would have guessed this
is what he wanted to do,” said his father Kenneth Hanson. “He didn’t make a lot of noise about it. He
do
just sort of gravitated in that direction. It was amazing.”
amazing
Hanson's peers were also surprised when he decided to become a Town Meeting representative, but he won the po-
sition and never looked back.
“As soon as I decided to run everyone started to tell me, ‘You know it is going to be really boring
and you are going to hate it,’” said Hanson during a recent appearance on Chelmsford TeleMedia. “I get to
it,
Town Meeting for the first time…the town manager is up there. He gets the Power Point with the
graphs and he starts explaining everything and I am just in heaven, soaking it all in.” in.
A registered Independent, Hanson leans slightly to the left and tends to support Democratic candidates. He says his
sense of moderation will help him as a selectman.
“I was basically born having to be objective about every issue,” said Hanson. “The residents are
issue,
looking for a few things in their selectmen, particularly scrutiny in financial issues.” issues.
Hanson is hesitant to criticize current selectmen or contrast his ideas with theirs. He does believe the board should
have pushed back harder against Aggregate Industries’ attempt to expand its asphalt plant on Littleton Road.
“It looked like the board was going to accept their agreement, but I would have accepted it under
stricter conditions,” said Hanson. “They shouldn’t be there in the first place. There are thousands of
conditions
residents within a mile of that place.”
place
Hanson also wants to protect the school system from substantial cuts as town revenues decline. He is eager to pre-
serve the programs that enriched his own recent education.
“Growing up in the school system here I heard from all of the parents they liked how it still had
an art and music system,” said Hanson. “Some of them said they moved here just for the schools.”
system, schools.
So far only Hanson and Donald Van Dyne have pulled papers for the board’s two open seats. Nonetheless, Hanson
is prepared to run a serious and focused campaign.
“I am going to have a big campaign kickoff party soon,” said Hanson. “My girlfriend is going to be
soon,
managing my campaign. My mom is a finance person so she will be my treasurer.” treasurer

Selectmen Candidate
Donald Van Dyne made his first appearance
on Tom Christiano’s show
“POLITICALLY INCORRECT ”
CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE
SHOW IN IT’S ENTIRETY
*****************************************************************
On the next Politically Incorrect JAN 27th topics include:
Chelmsford's FY 2010 Budget, and our current FY 2009 Budget
Current Townwide candidates for our April 7th election
Converting the Old Town Hall (14 units) and the North Town Hall (17 units) into Affordable Housing.
Billboards in Chelmsford
With panelists :
Matt Hanson - Selectman Candidate
George Zaharoolis - Planning Bd, re-election candidate
Sam Chase - Town Meeting Rep, re-election candidate
Tom Gazda - Town Meeting Rep, re-election candidate
POLITICALLY INCORRECT:
Tues & Weds 8:30 PM;
Thurs 7:00 AM; Sundays 11:00 AM
Chelmsford Cable TV Channel 8

VIDEO FLASHBACK
One year ago, the new kid on the block
challenged the incumbent Selectman.
Not A Chance ???
Eric Dahlberg’s first appearances on the local shows.
CLICK HERE FOR
ERIC’S FIRST
APPEARANCE
ON
POLITICALLY
INCORRECT
CLICK HERE FOR
ERIC’S FIRST
APPEARANCE
ON
TOWN TALK
CLICK HERE FOR
A CLIP OF ERIC’S
FIRST
DEBATE
CLICK HERE FOR
A CLIP OF ERIC’S
Election Day

Running on Emp t y?
As of Friday, January 23rd there are still some empty spots
on the Town Election ballot for which no one has pulled
nomination papers . . .
Last Update 1/23/2009 4:07 PM
http://wwc.townofchelmsford.us/election/apr709towncandidates.htm
Alternate member of the
PLANNING BD 2 Year term remaining (1 opening)
PRECINCT 1 TOWN MTG REP, UNEXPIRED
1 YR term remaining (1 opening)
PRECINCT 2 TOWN MTG REPS, UNEXPIRED
2 YR term remaining (2 openings)
PRECINCT 2 TOWN MTG REPS, UNEXPIRED
1 YR term remaining (2 openings)
PRECINCT 3 TOWN MTG REP, UNEXPIRED
2 YR term remaining (1 opening)
PRECINCT 3 TOWN MTG REP, UNEXPIRED
1 YR term remaining (1 opening)
SCHOOL COMMITTEE
3YR (1 opening)
******************
Nomination Papers due in FEB 17th
for more info
CLICK HERE
http://www.egovlink.com/public_documents300/chelmsford/published_doc -
uments/Town%20Clerk/Town_Candidate_Instructions.pdf

Chelmsford
and Life on the
Farm
A New Market is
Coming to Town!
The Chelmsford Farmers' Market is in its final
planning stages and the Market Committee is
champing at the bit to start sending out the
applications to our local farmers.
Peggy Dunn and Susan Julian Gates presented the
draft rules and regulations to the Board of Selectmen
on 1/5/09, answered their questions and received
some helpful comments. We have had a lot of positive
feedback and we are pleased the Town Manager and
BOS are supportive.
Our goal is to give the residents of Chelmsford a place
to purchase local produce and support local farmers.
Stay tuned to learn more about becoming a locavore!
Where: Chelmsford Common
When: Every Thursday, What to Expect ???
July 9 - Sept. 24, 2009
2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
For More Info
Check in at CLICK HERE FOR
http://chelmsfordfarmersmarket.blogspot.com/ VIDEO PRESENTATION

News briefs:
Bits & Pieces
Submitted by Mike Rigney - Precinct 6
At the last FinCom meeting, the library director noted that Kronos had just donated a bunch of lap-
tops. Not sure what to do with that, but if there's a way to mention it, I figure they probably deserve
some kind of 'atta boy
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
There is always a way to mention things Mike.
Roy
*************************************************************************************************************************************************
Feds OK ice storm relief
By Peter Costa/Staff Writer
Wed Jan 21, 2009
CHELMSFORD - Last week, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) agreed communities
in Middlesex County should qualify for disaster relief following the Dec. 11 ice storm.
“It is good news,” said Town Manager Paul Cohen.
Cities and towns can now apply to receive about 75 percent reimbursement for costs related to
cleanup and damage that occurred because of the storm.
Cohen expects Chelmsford to receive “a couple hundred thousands of dollars” in payments.
Earlier last week, Cohen along with more than 70 officials from area towns attended a meeting in
Westford to discuss the reimbursement issue.
“We presented a slide show of damages to our communities, the power outages and the emergency
responses from Westford. We did that through GIS mapping. Then we heard from MEMA and FEMA of-
ficials who described the process, gave an update of where we were and why we were disqualified,”
Westford Town Manager Jodi Ross said.
Senators Edward Kennedy and John Kerry and Representatives Niki Tsongas, Edward Markey and
John Tierney wrote to President Bush in support of Gov. Deval Patrick’s request to amend the recent
federal disaster declaration to include Middlesex and Essex counties.
Town officials will now meet with FEMA representatives to complete a series of applications and
forms detailing costs to the communities.
Communities are expected to begin receiving reimbursements within 30 to 60 days of applying.
“One of my frustrations last week was that we had to submit economic stimulus package wants but
the ice storm costs are financial needs we have today, right now that are critical. I wanted the focus to
be on those costs rather than what we might be able to get down the road in the future,” Ross said.
Staff Writer Kevin Zimmerman contributed to this report.
************************************************************************************************************************************************
S tate budget ax will spare fu ndi ng for Greater Lowell scho ols
By Matt Murphy, mmurphy@lowellsun.com
Updated: 01/23/2009
BOSTON -- Gov. Deval Patrick will spare direct state aid to public schools in his latest round of emergency budget cuts, The
Sun has learned. But local officials warned that protecting Chapter 70 aid may not be enough to avoid immediate layoffs in
schools.
Patrick plans to tell municipal leaders this morning that he will try to protect schools from massive, midyear budget cuts by
leaving Chapter 70 aid to public schools intact, according to an administration source briefed on the speech.
City and town officials cautioned that Chapter 70 is not the only source of funding for public school systems that often rely on
other sources of local aid to help fund education. Deep cuts in those areas could negate the benefits of preserving Chapter 70,
those officials said.
\"The question is what will happen to lottery aid and additional assistance,\" said Chelms -
ford Town Manager Paul Cohen. \"It's all part of our general revenue base used for the
schools. To us, it's often a distinction without a difference.\"
Chelmsford is budgeted to receive $9.3 million in Chapter 70 aid for schools this fiscal
year, but also receives another $6.2 million in state funding in the form of lottery aid and
\"additional assistance.\"
FOR MORE OF THE STORY CLICK HERE

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Donald Van Dyne <dvdjr@verizon.net>
Date: Fri, Jan 23, 2009 at 10:01 AM
Subject: Editorial- Globe
To: tchristiano@comcast.net, Roy Earley <re007hq@gmail.com>
Hi Tom and Roy,
The below editorial helps to summarize the fiscal reality of our Town. This is why the TriBoard meeting on Thursday
January 29, is necessary. By next Thursday we will know the hard numbers (the cut in state aid and FY2010 budget) and
hopefully as a community we will begin to forge a plan that balances our community needs and expectations.
Power to the towns
Spread the word regarding this meeting.
Thanks,
Donald
Januar y 23, 2009
FOR YEARS, local officials have begged the Legislature for enough power to run their cities and towns.
But like patronizing older siblings, state lawmakers chucked the selectmen and mayors under their chins
and sent them on their way. It won't work this year, not if people expect decent service local schools,
highway departments and public safety workers.
More than 1,000 members of the Massachusetts Municipal Association are expected today at the Hynes
Convention Center for the largest annual gathering of local officials in New England. The officials fear
that cuts in state aid will force them to slash town workforces and blot out basic municipal services.
House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi has warned that communities could see as much as a 10 percent cut -
roughly $500 million in all - to their local aid accounts in the fiscal year that begins in July. And the Leg-
islature recently gave the governor emergency powers that could lead to local aid cuts of an additional
$200 million or more this year - though administration sources say education aid will be protected.
The recession has been a sharp blow to the municipal jaw. Property tax levy limits are flat without new
development. Investment income is falling. So are automobile excise taxes, as drivers cling to older
autos. Cities and towns need ways to raise revenues outside their usual reliance on
property tax increases. Governor Patrick, who is scheduled to address the meeting today, is prepared to
give the towns more autonomy. But lawmakers have been slow to respond.
Allowing municipalities more leeway to design health insurance plans for their workers is the most effec-
tive way to bring fiscal relief, according to Geoffrey Beckwith, president of the
municipal group. State government has the power to increase its workers' co-payments and
deductibles to reduce costs. But municipalities must bargain such changes with their unions.
To survive the recession, cities and towns need the same flexibility enjoyed by the state.
They also need legislative approval to add at least one penny for local use to the state's 5 percent meals
tax, and an opportunity to raise taxes on telecommunication companies that use loopholes in state law
to evade property taxes. In recent weeks DiMasi has embraced the idea of steering municipal workers
into the state's health insurance program without union approval. He and other lawmakers need to show
similarly strong leadership on the meals tax and other issues, including reform of the disability retire-
ment system.
\"If we don't get reform this year, then when would we ever get it?\" asks Beckwith.
Good question. The governor files his plan to balance the budget next week, and local officials
deserve an answer before then
*******************************************************************************************************************************
Towns, unions forced to rethink contracts
By Alexandra Mayer-Hohdahl, amayer-hohdahl@lowellsun.com
Updated: 01/25/2009
\"We understand that these are difficult and uncertain times, but we think it's reasonable to still have some salary
increases,\" said Anne Wass, the president of the Massachusetts Teachers Association. \"No matter how bad the
economy is, we have to find a way to recession-proof education. Where you might go slow for a while on a road
that is in need of repairs, a kid only goes through education once. We have a big investment here that we need to
protect.\"
Chelmsford School Committee member Angelo Taranto, whose board is preparing for contract negotiations this
spring, said he would agree with that only to some extent.
\"As School Committee members, we certainly want to keep a quality education,\" he said. \"But everybody in-
volved in school systems has to realize that things have changed. The economy is going to have a huge impact.
It's going to be a difficult time for all.\"
School committees have already reached across town borders to exchange ideas on how to handle contracts in
the face of the universal economic slowdown, Taranto said.
Some local officials say it is time to change the status quo.
CLICK HERE for the rest of the story

The following was Submitted by
Donald Van Dyne - Precinct 6
Vice Chairman of the Finance Committee
and Candidate for Selectmen
******************************************************************************************************
Community Announcements:
More than ever it is essential for Town meeting representatives and the residents of Chelmsford to remain
informed regarding the financial condition of our Town. Following are several important dates and opportu-
nities for all residents to participate in helping to balance the needs of our community with the town’s recog-
nized limited resources.
~ Wednesday, January 28, 2009- Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick expected to release mid-year State
Local Aid cuts which will affect our current FY 2009 budget. In addition, he will deliver his proposed budget
for FY 2010.
~ Thursday, January 29, 2009-
Senior Center, Public Meeting, 7pm
TriBoard Meeting - Board of Selectmen (BOS), School Committee (SC) and Finance Committee. Both the
Town Manager (BOS) and School Superintendent (SC) will deliver presentations and thoughts regarding
Governor Patrick’s budget cuts for the current fiscal year and his proposed FY 2010 budget and what it
means for Chelmsford.
~ Monday, February 2, 2009
Police Station, Public Meeting, 7pm
Chelmsford Housing Authority presentation for redevelopment of the North and Center Town Hall. All
residents of Chelmsford are encouraged to attend and voice their opinions.
~ Thursday, February 5, 2009
Chelmsford Town Hall, Public Meeting, 7:30 pm, room #205
Finance Committee public budget hearings. Reports will be presented from both the Fire Department
and Police Department. This is an opportunity to learn how public safety will be delivered in FY2010.
Campaign Announcements:
~ Thursday, January 29, 2009
Channel 8 @8:30pm - Town Talk with Dennis Ready
Guest: Donald Van Dyne- candidate for Board of Selectmen
INVITATION for all residents of Chelmsford:
Please join us and Board of Selectmen candidate Donald Van Dyne at his campaign party.
Date: Sunday, March 1, 2009
Time: 4pm-8pm
Where: Chelmsford Country Club
Suggested donation: $10
Committee to Elect Donald Van Dyne

Important Notice:
TRI-BOARD BUDGET MEETING
Thursday January 29th 7:00pm
At the Senior Center 75 Groton Rd.
****************************************
Also on ChelmsfordTelemedia: Channel 10 7:00 PM
Board of Selectmen,Town Manager, Finance Committee and School Committee, LIVE
\"The cuts will be painful and they will impact everything from public safety to public education,\"
Patrick to slash $128M in local aid
By Matt Murphy, mmurphy@lowellsun.com
Updated: 01/24/2009
Gov. Deval Patrick announces plans to cut aid to cities and towns by $128 million during a meeting of the Massachu-
setts Municipal Association in Boston yesterday. AP PHOTO
BOSTON -- Gov. Deval Patrick plans to cut local aid to cities and towns by $128 million next week, with even larger
cuts looming for next year as he works to close an immediate $1.1 billion hole in the state budget.
Patrick, addressing nearly 1,000 local officials in Boston yesterday at the annual Massachusetts Municipal Association
meeting, also proposed increasing the state's meals tax from 5 percent to 6 percent, and the hotel and motel tax from
5.75 percent to 6.75 percent, generating about $150 million in new revenue that mostly will be given back to cities and
towns.
Along with the statewide meal- and hotel-tax increases, the governor said he will ask the Legislature, again, to approve
a local option for cities and towns to asses an additional 1-cent meal and hotel tax on every dollar.
\"We have tough choices among miserable options,\" Patrick said. \"My job is to make those choices, and I have.\"
For the complete story CLICK HERE
If you have friends,family or neighbors who would like to be added to this
news update list,
just have them drop me a line at
re007hq@gmail.com