Select Board - October 23, 2025

October 23, 2025
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Meeting Minutes: Select Board - October 23, 2025

Governing Body: Dedham Select Board Meeting Type: Regular Meeting Meeting Date: October 23, 2025, at 12:00 AM Attendees:

  • Dennis J. Teehan, Jr., Select Board Member
  • Dimitria Sullivan, Select Board Member
  • Michelle Persson Reilly, Select Board Member
  • Jim MacDonald, Select Board Member
  • Erin Boles Welsh, Select Board Member
  • Leon Goodwin, Town Manager
  • Nancy Baker, Assistant Town Manager
  • Jason Mamone, Director of Engineering
  • Brady Winston, Finance Director
  • Jeremy Rosenberger, Director of Planning, Zoning, and Natural Resources
  • Eli Bossen, Facilities Master Plan Steering Committee Candidate
  • John Sanders, Human Rights Committee Candidate
  • Tracy Franklin, Human Rights Committee Candidate
  • Andrea Crowell, Human Rights Committee Candidate
  • David Hildeman, Conservation Commission Associate Member Candidate
  • Sophia McKinnon, Conservation Commission Resource Member Candidate
  • Matthew Lane, Conservation Commission Resource Member Candidate
  • Nathan Michael, Weston Sampson
  • Patrick Cotton, Weston Sampson

Executive Summary: The Select Board convened for a regular meeting on October 23, 2025. Key discussions included updates on the Town Green and Splash Pad projects, the Town Manager's report, and the approval of a consent agenda. The Board heard candidate statements for the Facilities Master Plan Steering Committee, Human Rights Committee, and Conservation Commission. A comprehensive update was provided by the Director of Planning, Zoning, and Natural Resources on ongoing projects and future initiatives. The Finance Director presented the FY26 Q1 budget status, and the Director of Engineering detailed the Manor Flow Study findings and proposed solutions. The Board approved a new Town Manager Evaluation Policy and Form and adopted a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) policy.

I. Dedham Citizens Open Discussion

  • No citizens were present for open discussion, either in person or online.

II. Town Manager's Report

  • Town Green Project:
    • A building permit for the pavilion has been issued.
    • Structure expected to arrive late November/early December 2025.
    • Installation is projected to take 2-3 weeks, with completion by early 2026.
    • The Town Manager will coordinate with the Dedham Square Committee regarding the Town Green's availability during the Dino's Diastole event.
    • The Town Green Working Group is planning a final meeting to wrap up and potentially disband.
  • Splash Pad Project:
    • Construction is expected to conclude in November 2025.
    • The splash pad will be winterized and activated in Spring 2026.
    • The project is currently under budget.
    • There have been slight delays due to lead time issues from the contractor.
    • Jason Mamone, Town Engineer, is managing the project.
  • Fire Prevention Month:
    • Activities, including school visits, have continued throughout October.
    • Positive feedback has been received from the community.
    • The Town Manager extended thanks to the Fire Chief and Fire Department for their efforts.
  • MBTA Readville:
    • The issue of railroad ties has "quieted down somewhat."
    • The Health Department noted that the majority of ties have been removed, and remaining ties are covered with tarps.
    • The Town will continue to address National Grid noise issues with Boston neighbors.

III. Consent Agenda

  • Motion: To approve the consent agenda.
    • Items Approved:
      • Gift acceptances totaling $950 from various donors for a street mural.
      • A $100 memorial donation for library books.
      • Street closure for Richard Street on October 31, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
      • Wine and Malt license for Aranopat Cellars at the Winter and Spring Farmers Market (November 2025 - June 2026).
  • Motion by: [Not specified in transcript]
  • Seconded by: [Not specified in transcript]
  • Vote:
    • For: All members present (Aye)
    • Against: 0
    • Abstentions: 0
  • Outcome: Approved.

IV. Items Not on the Agenda

  • Motion: To take up items not on the agenda.
    • Items Approved:
      • Approval of R Kadesh Excavation LLC as a drain layer in Dedham.
      • Approval of a wine and malt license for Bliss Point Meadery for the Dedham Winter Farmers Market.
  • Motion by: [Not specified in transcript]
  • Seconded by: [Not specified in transcript]
  • Vote:
    • For: All members present (Aye) Against: 0
    • Abstentions: 0
  • Outcome: Approved.

V. Committee Candidate Statements

A. Facilities Master Plan Steering Committee

  • Candidate: Eli Bossen
    • Address: 131 Court Street.
    • Current Role: Dedham Town Meeting member.
    • Professional Experience: Develops and implements facility improvement projects for municipalities and states; recently completed a project for the Rhode Island Department of Education evaluating 74 public school facilities; technical assistance vendor for Mass Clean Energy Center's Green School Works program.
    • Key Points:
      • Emphasized experience in facility condition reports, project recommendations, and setting priorities.
      • Works as an owner's agent for municipal and state entities.
      • Committed to collaborative teamwork and finding consensus.
      • Believes in translating consultant work into plain language for the public.
      • Stressed the importance of a coherent master plan to address fiscal challenges, affordability, and facility investment demands, especially for schools and municipal buildings.
      • Highlighted the need for effective consulting and extensive public input.
    • Questions from Board Members:
      • Public Engagement: Mr. Bossen suggested communicating through various avenues including town communication methods, social media, Dedham community groups, and parent/PTO groups, emphasizing "reaching people where they are."
      • Commitment: Confirmed commitment to in-person meetings, potentially every two weeks, for the 12-18 month duration of the committee's work.
      • Key Outcomes: Stated the master plan must provide a "coherent step-by-step set of plans" with clear consequences, budgets, procurement, and facility utilization, avoiding mere reiteration of existing knowledge.
      • Scope: Confirmed comfort in addressing municipal facilities beyond schools, citing recent work on a recreation facility in North Kingston.
  • Other Candidates: Steve Popper and Brandon Westerling will be heard at the November 6th meeting.

B. Human Rights Committee

  • Candidate: John Sanders
    • Address: 153 Court Street.
    • Current Role: Teacher working with neurodiverse students with social anxiety issues, focusing on inclusion.
    • Professional Experience: Five years teaching in Boston Public Schools; previously conducted a training program for Laotian refugees in Colorado, providing citizenship exam instruction and English as a second language.
    • Key Points:
      • Expressed a desire to "push back" against attacks on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) concepts.
      • Worked with South Shore Bank in Chicago, a community development bank focused on community improvement and inclusiveness in a specific neighborhood.
      • Has lived in Dedham for 22 years; family is from Dedham.
      • Believes Boston's reputation for inclusiveness issues is outdated but acknowledges ongoing concerns.
      • Emphasized the importance of the town having means to bring people together and ensure representation.
    • Questions from Board Members:
      • Bridging Differences: Suggested reaching people in their own communities (e.g., community centers, places of worship) through an "ambassadorial way," organizing educational programs, panels, and sharing resources at events like farmers' markets to foster understanding and welcome.
  • Candidate: Tracy Franklin
    • Address: 727 East Street.
    • Background: Lifelong Dedham resident, disabled American, biracial woman, single mother.
    • Key Points:
      • Graduated from Dedham High School in 1990, potentially the first Black child to complete K-12 in Dedham.
      • Co-founder of the Dedham Coalition for Equity and Inclusion (DCEI) in 2020, which has grown to over 1,500 members.
      • Co-chair of DCEI's community engagement group, successfully hosting Juneteenth celebrations with the Human Rights Commission (HRC).
      • Co-chair of the Police Communication Liaison Group, working with the Dedham Police Department to organize National Night Out events and "dismantle the blue versus black lives narrative."
      • Committed to bringing fresh ideas, organizing multicultural events, and publishing educational letters to the Dedham Times.
    • Questions from Board Members:
      • Commitment: Confirmed availability for meetings and is not on other town boards/committees.
      • Human Rights in Dedham: Defined human rights in a local context as encompassing "everyone inclusively," covering socioeconomic status, race, and ensuring every community member receives what they deserve.
  • Candidate: Andrea Crowell
    • Address: 333 Bridge Street.
    • Background: Lived in Dedham for 10 years with her son (fifth grade at Riverdale).
    • Professional Experience: 20 years in the legal field, specifically intellectual property and legal operations; currently works at Moderna in Cambridge.
    • Key Points:
      • Deeply cares about ensuring Dedham remains a welcoming, respected, and inclusive community.
      • Believes the Commission plays an important role in navigating social changes with empathy and understanding.
      • Involved with Riverdale PTO, Cradles to Crayons, Rough Tales Rescue, and Amnesty International.
      • Emphasized collaboration, communication, and dependability.
      • Offered to help with community events, education, and inclusion efforts.
    • Questions from Board Members:
      • Measuring Success: Suggested success would be measured by increased community awareness of the Human Rights Commission's mission and its value, becoming a known resource for residents.

C. Conservation Commission (Associate Member)

  • Open Seats: 2
  • Candidate: David Hildeman
    • Address: 15 Prospect Street.
    • Background: Lived in Dedham for three years with wife and eight-month-old son.
    • Professional Experience: Licensed Professional Engineer in Massachusetts (specialty: water resource and environmental engineering); Professional Wetland Scientist; several years of project review experience as an environmental engineer in the wetlands program at MassDEP.
    • Key Points:
      • Well-versed in wetland delineations and restoration.
      • Familiar with the importance of conservation commissions.
      • Attended and presented at MACC conferences; led trainings for wetland delineation and restoration for conservation commissioners statewide.
    • Questions from Board Members:
      • Other Committees: Does not serve on other Dedham committees.
      • Balancing Needs: Stated he would interpret regulations and bylaws "to the best of my ability for any applicant," aiming to be "fair and just" to all.

D. Conservation Commission (Resource Member)

  • Open Seats: 3
  • Candidate: Sophia McKinnon
    • Background: Lifelong Dedham resident; student at the University of Vermont.
    • Academic Focus: Sustainability, Ecology, and Policy (special focus on environmental planning, policy, and law), with a minor in Spanish.
    • Key Points:
      • Involved in town activities since childhood (sports, school).
      • Conducted research for the Vermont legislature and field research in Costa Rica (water conservation/quality).
      • Member of the Climate Action Collective in Burlington, VT, working on grassroots environmental campaigns.
      • Will graduate in December 2025; will be in Dedham late November-January and in summer; plans to move back to Dedham after graduation and attend meetings in person starting September 2026.
    • Questions from Board Members:
      • Pressing Environmental Issues: Identified energy sources as a significant environmental issue, citing Burlington, VT's "net zero" status as greenwashing due to biomass burning causing water issues.
  • Candidate: Matthew Lane
    • Address: 11 Contentment Place.
    • Background: Lived in Dedham for 23.5 years; wife is a teacher in Dedham schools.
    • Academic Background: Undergraduate in biology, ecology, evolution, plant and animal biology; PhD in biochemistry.
    • Current Role: Faculty member at Boston University School of Medicine and Assistant Dean of Research.
    • Key Points:
      • Extensive experience working on teams, reading complex documents and policy.
      • Believes the most pressing environmental issues are water (drought, groundwater) and invasive species.
      • Available for evening meetings.
    • Questions from Board Members:
      • No specific questions, but board members praised his impressive resume and willingness to volunteer.
  • Role of Resource Member (Clarification by Leon Goodwin): Resource members are not full commission members but assist by sharing professional backgrounds (e.g., biology, ecology, wetland science) to contribute to the Conservation Commission's work, especially for plan updates and regulations, but do not rule on applications. It is often a "junior position" and a learning experience.

VI. Update from Director of Planning, Zoning, and Natural Resources

  • Presenter: Jeremy Rosenberger, Director of Planning, Zoning, and Natural Resources.
  • Department Overview:
    • The Planning, Zoning, and Natural Resources Department merged planning, zoning, and stormwater in 2023.
    • A new counter has been installed to improve customer service, allowing visual conversations about properties and related regulations.
    • The department has seven full-time staff members.
  • Conservation Division:
    • Supports the Conservation Commission, Open Space and Recreation Subcommittee, and Sustainability Advisory Committee.
    • Conservation Commission meets twice a month.
    • Wetlands Bylaw Update (2025):
      • First overhaul since 1996.
      • Nominally updated fees.
      • Codified the tree policy (replacement of two-to-one for trees over six inches in caliper).
    • Open Space and Recreation Plan Update:
      • First community meeting on Saturday, October 26, 2025, at the Avery School.
      • Funded by a $40,000 grant ($20,000 from town, $20,000 from MAPC).
      • This is a 10-year plan (previous was 6-year, 2019).
    • Public Engagement:
      • Biodiversity Day (May) is an ongoing success.
      • Wetland regulation trainings (101s) for tradespeople are popular.
  • Stormwater Division:
    • Susanna Sullivan (started 4 months ago) is reviewing stormwater regulations for updates and flexibility.
    • Engaging with other municipalities to identify best practices.
    • Proactively reaching out to property owners (commercial/business) on the cusp of stormwater fee tiers to advise on potential savings by reducing impervious surfaces.
  • Planning and Zoning Division:
    • Supports the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Design Review Advisory Board.
    • Assisted the Water Resource Advisory Committee.
    • MassWorks Grant ($1 Million):
      • Received in May 2025 for transportation infrastructure and safety improvements around Legacy Place.
      • Focus on intersections of Elm Street/National Drive and Providence Highway/Legacy Boulevard.
      • Preliminary 25% design plans are underway.
      • Requires collaboration with private property owners (Legacy Boulevard is private) and the state (Providence Highway).
      • This is a two-year process.
    • Zoning Study ($105,000):
      • Awaiting state approval for a zoning study around Legacy Boulevard.
      • Aims to balance commercial growth with increasing residential demand, especially given the area's proximity to the highway and MBTA commuter rail.
      • Will explore zoning changes to prioritize commercial components or ensure commercial presence in residential redevelopments.
    • Town Meeting Articles:
      • Planning Board sponsored six articles, deliberated and voted on the previous night, primarily focused on beautifying commercial corridors and reducing pavement.
      • Noted one petitioner-generated article of significant interest.
    • ADU Guidebook:
      • Developing a guidebook for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) due to numerous inquiries and the complexity/cost homeowners face.
      • Will serve as a resource on the website and for staff.
      • Aims to be proactive in providing guidance following state legislation allowing by-right ADUs.
      • Expected by 2026.
  • Future Initiatives (Grant Seeking):
    • Macroeconomic Strategy: Seeking grant opportunities for a broad strategy to advance economic development.
    • E Street Corridor Study: Similar to the Bridge Street study, to look at redevelopment of underutilized properties and protecting neighborhoods.
    • Dedham Square Underpass: Seeking funding for visioning studies to make the underpass a more attractive area (e.g., market, skateboarding, food).
  • Current Development Projects:
    • Sturgis Way (Norbloom Companies): 150-unit mixed-use development; construction expected 2026; currently in building permit review; 15% of units will be affordable.
    • Moseley's Properties (Bridge Street): Redevelopment of parking lot and former dance hall into 86 units. Includes a public park (size of Town Green) with waterfront access.
    • 2 Bridge Street (Waterford's): 26-unit condo development with a 3,000 sq ft, 60-seat restaurant. Potential public canoe launch. Undergoing Planning Board review into 2026.
    • Hilton Hotel: Proposed conversion of 200+ rooms to approximately 160 apartment units. Focus on interior changes and site improvements. Near MBTA commuter rail.
    • First Watch (Dedham Plaza): 4,000 sq ft breakfast/lunch restaurant. Review expected to begin December 2025.
    • 124 Quabish: Previous 294-unit mixed-use project (approved 2022) stalled due to financing. New proposal for 380-unit entirely residential project (by-right under MBTA community zoning). Will undergo site plan review.
    • 359 Washington Street: Proposed 14-unit condo/commercial mixed-use project to replace a vacant one-story building in Dedham Square. Likely to be taken up next month.
    • Just Salad: Taking over the old Santander Bank location.
  • Questions from Board Members:
    • Department Restructure: Mr. Rosenberger stated the restructure has been "great," fostering communication and collaboration among staff in the "land use wing." He also serves as a mentor to newer staff.
    • Importance of New Growth: Dennis Teehan emphasized the vital role of new growth for the town's financial future and the need for an open mind regarding change, acknowledging its benefits.
    • Stalled Projects: Jim MacDonald expressed concern about stalled projects becoming "eyesores" and the impact of economic conditions on construction. He highlighted the need to address both commercial and residential redevelopment, including abandoned homes and tax-titled properties.
    • Stormwater Fee: Mr. MacDonald reiterated that the stormwater fee is a major complaint and suggested revisiting the tiers, noting that property owners might consider reducing impervious surfaces if it leads to significant savings.
    • Apartment Projections: Mr. Rosenberger estimated 600-700 new apartments could be coming over time, not all in 2026, due to economic factors. He stressed the importance of these projects for maintaining the town's "safe harbor" status (10% affordable housing stock, with 15% of new project units being affordable).
    • ADU Guide: The guide is being developed collaboratively by the Planning and Building Departments using internal expertise.
    • Wetland Trainings: Run by the conservation agent, Meredith, with the Conservation Commission.
    • Open Space Plan: Noted the previous plan was single-handedly done by Stephanie Radner; the current update benefits from MAPC assistance and an active subcommittee.
    • Supporting Project Completion: Michelle Reilly asked how the town could support developers in completing stalled projects. Mr. Rosenberger emphasized providing a clear, transparent, and efficient permitting process (e.g., OpenGov system) as "time is money." He noted that tax assistance (TIFs) is a tactic but can be controversial.
    • Developer Feedback: The Planning Board asks if projects improved through their process, and peer reviews are conducted.
    • Macroeconomic Strategy: This would be a high-level, broad strategy developed by external consultants, likely funded by grants in the next fiscal year.
    • TIFs: Jim MacDonald reminded the Board of past successful TIFs in Dedham (MS Walker, General Dynamics) as a tool for economic development.

VII. FY26 Q1 Budget Status

  • Presenter: Brady Winston, Finance Director.
  • Revenues (General Fund):
    • 5% higher than the previous year for Q1.
    • Variances are typical for Q1 due to irregular timing of permit fees and other items.
    • Noted state reimbursements for Assessing Office and Veteran Services Department are included.
    • Finance Department revenues primarily represent property, personal property, and excise taxes.
    • Other departments' revenues are from permits for services.
  • Expenditures:
    • Department budgets are 27% expended in Q1, compared to 31% last year.
    • Town Manager's Budget: Appears highly expended due to the absence of a large salary reserve (present last year) and the lump-sum payment of liability, property, and workers' compensation insurance. Excluding insurance, it's 27% expended.
    • Legal Department: Appears highly expended due to the payment of the legal settlement with CTA (authorized by Spring Town Meeting Article 12). This was offset by bond proceeds, resulting in a net zero impact. The first debt service payment will be in FY27.
    • IT Department: Highly expended due to subscription costs. A new cost-sharing agreement with schools reduced the town's personnel budget, making subscription costs a proportionally larger expense.
  • Local Options Meals Tax and Rooms Tax:
    • Revenues are reserved in the Rob and Reyes Fund to offset Debt Service for Major Capital Projects.
    • Room occupancy tax is down slightly (<1%).
    • Meals tax is up slightly (<1%).
    • Overall, tracking similarly to last year.
    • Room occupancy tax has not rebounded from FY25.
  • Questions from Board Members:
    • Room Occupancy Tax: Michelle Reilly inquired about trends in other communities and whether it's an economic indicator or specific to Dedham. Brady Winston offered to provide benchmarking data.
    • Endicott Estate: Jim MacDonald noted a significant decrease in Endicott Estate revenue compared to last year; Brady Winston will follow up with the director for more information.

VIII. Manor Flow Study

  • Presenters: Jason Mamone (Director of Engineering), Nathan Michael (Weston Sampson), Patrick Cotton (Weston Sampson).
  • Background:
    • Infiltration and Inflow (I&I) is clean water entering the sewer system through defects and illegal connections.
    • Sewer systems are designed for wastewater only; I&I causes surcharging and potential private property backups.
    • Estimated that about half the flow in Dedham's sewer system is I&I.
    • The Manor neighborhood experiences surcharging issues.
  • Town's Role in I&I Removal:
    • For almost 20 years, the town has systematically identified and removed I&I from public infrastructure.
    • In the Manor tributary area, almost 60% of sewer pipes and 40% of sewer manholes have been repaired.
    • The town inspects the entire sewer system every five years.
  • Door-to-Door Inspection Program (2024-2025):
    • Identified private inflow sources (e.g., sump pumps).
    • Achieved an 89% inspection rate (compared to 42% in 2014) due to public engagement.
    • Found 65 inflow sources, over 40 of which were sump pumps connected to the sewer.
    • Positive feedback from participants.
  • Sewer System Model Update:
    • Used I&I data from private sources to update the town's sewer model.
    • Modeled a 5-year, 24-hour storm (4.5 inches of rain) and a 4-year storm (4 inches of rain).
    • Model showed surcharging in the system, particularly in the Greensboro area (Bonham and Trenton Road).
    • Removal of inflow sources significantly improved conditions, but surcharging was not completely eliminated in a 5-year storm.
  • Recommendations:
    • Public Infrastructure:
      1. Remove Inflow Sources: On-site redirection, removal, or connection to the public storm system. Benefits include increased capacity, decreased surcharging, cost savings, and compliance with DP guidelines.
      2. Increase Sewer Main Size: Upsize the sewer main from Greensboro to Sherman (approx. 3,300-3,500 linear feet). Proposed in two equally priced phases. Benefits include further increased capacity, decreased surcharging frequency, and replacement of aging infrastructure.
        • Modeling showed significant improvement with upsizing, reducing flow below ground surface in a 5-year storm.
    • Private Property Recommendations (for 35 affected homes):
      1. Option 1: Groundwater Monitoring & Backflow Preventer:
        • Install groundwater monitoring wells with notification systems to alert residents of high groundwater.
        • Install backflow preventers to prevent sewer backups.
        • Benefits: Notifies homeowners, provides peace of mind.
        • Disadvantages: Requires operation/maintenance; limited sewer use during surcharge events.
      2. Option 2: Low-Pressure Sewer System:
        • Install a pump on private property to discharge sewer flow into a smaller low-pressure pipe along the road, bypassing the problem area.
        • Benefits: Eliminates wet weather concerns, provides peace of mind.
        • Disadvantages: Homeowner owns a mechanical pump (lifespan, O&M); no sewer use during power outages.
  • Conceptual Schedule & Next Steps:
    • Immediate: Develop an inflow removal policy (internal working group: Town Manager, Finance Director, DPW Director, Director of Engineering, Communications Director, one Select Board member). This policy will address financing mechanisms and impact on private property owners/ratepayers.
    • Concurrent: Engage the 35 affected properties to discuss options (backflow preventer vs. low-pressure system), pros, cons, and maintenance costs. Aim for a majority decision on the preferred solution.
    • Ongoing: Develop strategies to engage ratepayers in the inflow removal policy development, as it could be applied town-wide.
    • Funding: The town's annual I&I budget (currently $1 million, with $500,000 allocated to Manor) will be used. Expedited timelines would require additional funding.
  • Questions from Board Members:
    • Remedies for Violations: No remedies have been implemented yet for discovered illicit connections; the inflow removal policy will guide this.
    • Private Property Options: The decision on private property options (backflow preventer vs. low-pressure system) will be for the entire affected neighborhood, not property-by-property, for cost-benefit reasons.
    • Communication with Residents: Communication with affected residents has not yet begun but is the immediate next step.
    • Community Meeting: Jim MacDonald strongly recommended a public meeting for the Manor neighborhood to present findings, discuss options, and receive direct feedback before proceeding.
    • Appreciation: Dennis Teehan thanked the team for the informative presentation and well-executed project, acknowledging the sensitive nature of the work.
    • Cost and Timeline: Michelle Reilly asked about the cost burden for private property mitigation. Jason Mamone stated the internal working group would determine funding mechanisms, aiming to minimize the burden on private owners.
    • Individual Solutions: Confirmed that both private property options (backflow preventer, low-pressure system) would be installed on individual private properties.
    • Expedited Timeline: If $7 million were available, the entire project (inflow removal, pipe upsizing, private property solutions) could be completed in 5-8 years.
    • Short-Term Solutions: No immediate "Band-Aid" solutions are available. The backflow preventer is the quickest option but has limitations. The low-pressure system requires infrastructure installation first.
    • Notification of Affected Homes: Jason Mamone confirmed that affected homeowners would be notified directly and immediately, prior to any public meeting.

IX. PILOT Policy (Payment in Lieu of Taxes)

  • Presenter: Leon Goodwin, Town Manager.
  • Background:
    • Policy developed by a PILOT working group (Select Board members, community members) established approximately one year ago.
    • Addresses non-taxable parcels in Dedham (13% of land), which increase the tax burden on residential and commercial taxpayers.
    • The policy aims to request voluntary payments from non-taxable properties.
  • Policy Details:
    • Requested Contribution: Approximately 25% of what they would pay in taxes if taxable.
    • Implementation: Can be phased in over time, as non-profits are not budgeting for this.
    • Purpose: Not to penalize non-profits (which provide valuable community services) but to help fund services enjoyed by all.
    • Credit Program: Allows organizations to seek up to 50% reduction in their contribution (down to 12.5%) based on services provided to Dedham residents. This would involve an application, review by town staff, and dialogue.
    • Voluntary: Participation is entirely voluntary.
  • Questions from Board Members:
    • Appreciation: Jim MacDonald thanked the committee for their work and the well-done policy.
    • Community Service Credit Assessment: Dimitria Sullivan asked how the town would assess and verify the value of community services. Leon Goodwin stated the intent is to develop a framework/matrix, working with organizations to value their services (citing experience in another state where cities paid non-profits for services).
    • Communication Strategy: Michelle Reilly emphasized the importance of effective communication beyond letters, suggesting one-on-one meetings or a collective meeting for potential PILOT participants to foster understanding and partnership.
    • Tiered Approach: The plan is to send a general letter to all tax-exempt properties (with exceptions), then use a tiered approach starting with larger parcels/higher potential contributions, working down. The Assessor's office has ideas for this.
    • Nobles Example: Jim MacDonald noted the 50% credit is crucial for organizations like Nobles, which provide discounted services to youth, ensuring the policy doesn't disincentivize such contributions.
  • Motion: To approve the PILOT policy.
  • Motion by: [Not specified in transcript]
  • Seconded by: [Not specified in transcript]
  • Vote:
    • For: All members present (Aye)
    • Against: 0
    • Abstentions: 0
  • Outcome: Approved.

X. Town Manager Evaluation Policy and Form

  • Presenter: Leon Goodwin, Town Manager.
  • Background:
    • Annual review of the Town Manager by the Select Board.
    • The previous evaluation document was outdated; peer communities use a different model.
    • Research included other communities and the ICMA (International City and County Managers Association).
    • A draft policy and form were developed with feedback from the Chair.
  • Policy Details:
    • Codifies the annual review process, which was previously uncodified.
    • Establishes a timeframe for annual reviews.
    • Solicits feedback from each board member, compiled by a designated reviewer for public discussion.
    • The Town Manager will complete a self-evaluation first.
  • Motion: To approve the Town Manager Evaluation Policy and Form.
  • Motion by: [Not specified in transcript]
  • Seconded by: [Not specified in transcript]
  • Vote:
    • For: All members present (Aye)
    • Against: 0
    • Abstentions: 0
  • Outcome: Approved.
  • Next Steps: The Town Manager will finalize his self-evaluation to match the contract year and distribute it within a week.

XI. Approval of Minutes

  • Minutes Approved: 11-21-24 and 27-25 (presumably October 21, 2024, and September 27, 2025, based on context).
  • Motion by: [Not specified in transcript]
  • Seconded by: [Not specified in transcript]
  • Vote:
    • For: All members present (Aye)
    • Against: 0
    • Abstentions: 0
  • Outcome: Approved.

XII. Old/New Business

  • Open Space and Recreation Plan Community Meeting: Saturday, October 26, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Avery School.
  • National Drug Take Back Day: Saturday, October 26, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Dedham Police Department. Residents can safely dispose of prescriptions and medicines.
  • Free Document Shredding: Thursday, October 31, 2025 (Halloween), from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the American Legion. Instructions for paper bag use are on the website.
  • Community Cleanup: Michelle Reilly thanked Bob LaPorto and the team for the recent town-wide community cleanup, noting its success and high participation. Jim MacDonald praised the "phenomenal work" of collecting trash, particularly on Needham Street.
  • Halloween Safety: Dennis Teehan wished everyone a Happy Halloween, reminding them it's on a Friday night and to be safe with many children and families out. He also mentioned Trunk or Treat in Dedham Square on Saturday.

XIII. Adjournment

  • Motion: To adjourn the meeting.
  • Motion by: [Not specified in transcript]
  • Seconded by: [Not specified in transcript]
  • Vote:
    • For: All members present (Aye)
    • Against: 0
    • Abstentions: 0
  • Outcome: Meeting adjourned.

Last updated: Dec 8, 2025

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