Select Board - November 20, 2025

Dedham Select Board Meeting Minutes - November 20, 2025

Executive Summary: The Select Board convened on November 20, 2025, addressing a range of community issues. Key discussions included a presentation from the Dedham Youth Commission highlighting local events and volunteer efforts, a request for 15-minute parking spaces in Dedham Square, and the approval of an AT&T wireless attachment. The Board also accepted a MassDEP grant for electric vehicles and approved a change of manager for Total Wines. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing the recommended Pavement Management Program and the results of the National Community Survey, followed by an extensive discussion on the municipal decarbonization roadmap and electric vehicle policy.

I. Call to Order & Pledge of Allegiance

The meeting was called to order by the Chair.
Lauren Pellequin, Student Board Advisor for the Dedham Youth Commission, led the Pledge of Allegiance.

II. Dedham Youth Commission Presentation

A representative from the Dedham Youth Commission provided an update on upcoming and past events.
- Teensgiving Dinner: Currently underway downstairs.
- Turkey Trot 5K: Scheduled for next Thursday at Endicott Estate.
  - Supports the Dedham Youth Commission, Dedham Food Pantry, and Ripples of Hope.
  - Registration available at ripplesofhope.org.
  - Price break for registrations before November 24th.
  - Attendees encouraged to bring donations for the Dedham Food Pantry.
- Run for the Fallen 5K: Held earlier in the fall.
  - Veterans Service Officer Joe Hamilton was thanked for organizing the event.
  - Over 30 youth volunteers participated.
  - Eliza Fernandez, a youth volunteer, presented two paintings inspired by the event to Joe Hamilton for the Veterans Office.

III. Dedham Citizens Open Discussion

No members of the public came forward to speak.

IV. Town Manager's Report

Leon Goodwin, Town Manager, provided updates on recent town activities.
- Wildlife Event: Hosted by the ACO and Police Department at the Public Safety Building.
  - Featured the CEO of the New England Wildlife Center.
  - Over 45 attendees.
  - Samples provided by Tropical Smoothie Cafe.
- GFOA Distinguished Budget Book Award: The finance team received this award for the FY26 budget.
  - Award recognizes stringent criteria for budget presentation, transparency, and public understanding.
  - The interactive budget book is available on the town website.
- Town Meeting: Held on Monday night, concluded shortly after 10 PM.
  - Acknowledged the retirement of Town Moderator Dan Driscoll after 33 years of service.
  - Electronic votes from the meeting are posted on the town website.
- HR Department Training:
  - Safety and Respect training provided for frontline workers.
  - Supervisors training held two weeks prior.
  - Another session for frontline staff planned for December.
  - Training covers de-escalation, difficult situations, and reporting requirements.

V. Consent Agenda

Motion to remove an item from the Consent Agenda:
- Motion: To remove the request from the Dedham Square Circle regarding 15-minute parking on Eastern Avenue from the consent agenda.
- Moved by: Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.
- Seconded by: Select Board Member Jim MacDonald.
- Vote:
  - Michelle Persson Reilly: Yes
  - Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.: Yes
  - Jim MacDonald: Yes
  - Dimitria Sullivan: Yes
  - Chair: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed (5-0).
Discussion on 15-Minute Parking Request (Dedham Square Circle):
- Anne Miranda, Dedham Square Circle (207 Fairbanks Road), presented the request.
- Request: Designate two parking spaces on Eastern Avenue as 15-minute parking from 9 AM to 5 PM.
- Rationale: High density of takeout restaurants and businesses requiring quick in-and-out access.
- Benefits: Supports local businesses, especially with the increase in takeout orders since COVID-19.
- Board Discussion:
  - Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr. questioned the scope (only two spaces) and suggested extending the time limit to 20 minutes and considering other areas of the square (e.g., Cathay Kitchen, Washington Street). He also suggested a 6-month trial period.
  - Select Board Member Michelle Persson Reilly supported the need for parking turnover and suggested a comprehensive approach for the entire square, including Washington Street, and extending the hours beyond 5 PM. She also mentioned the need to consider food delivery and taxi stand parking.
  - Select Board Member Dimitria Sullivan emphasized the need for a comprehensive plan for the entire square, including the Keystone lot, and extending hours.
  - Town Manager Leon Goodwin confirmed parking enforcement operates Monday through Friday during the day.
- Motion: To take under advisement the request for the two 15-minute parking spaces.
- Moved by: Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.
- Seconded by: Select Board Member Jim MacDonald.
- Vote:
  - Michelle Persson Reilly: Yes
  - Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.: Yes
  - Jim MacDonald: Yes
  - Dimitria Sullivan: Yes
  - Chair: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed (5-0).
Approval of Remaining Consent Agenda Items:
- Motion: To approve the consent agenda, including:
  - Block Party, Carroll Drive, and Wesley Circle, December 12, 2025, 3 PM to 9 PM.
  - Gift Acceptances: $1,500 from DYC from Bay State Antique Auto Club, and $10,000 from Fidelity Charitable.
  - Change in DBA for Abbey's Beverly Inc., DBA Uchi to Abbey's Beverly Inc., DBA Uchi.
- Moved by: Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.
- Seconded by: Select Board Member Jim MacDonald.
- Vote:
  - Michelle Persson Reilly: Yes
  - Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.: Yes
  - Jim MacDonald: Yes
  - Dimitria Sullivan: Yes
  - Chair: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed (5-0).

VI. Public Hearing: AT&T Wireless Attachments at 671 High Street

Presentation: Ed Parry, attorney at Brown Rudnick, representing AT&T.
- Request: Placement of a small cell wireless facility at 671 High Street (on Ames Street, near Dedham Community House).
- Background: This is a new location after concerns from the county regarding a previous site near the courthouse.
- Installation: Two-foot canister antenna, equipment cabinet 11.5 feet above ground, meter, and shutoff switch.
- Compliance: Meets FCC emissions requirements.
- Notice: Mailings sent to properties within a 500-foot radius; no calls or emails received. Roberto Moran (neighbor) was consulted and had no objections.
- Board Discussion:
  - Select Board Member Jim MacDonald noted the pole needs replacement and requested a condition that the AT&T device not be installed until the old pole is removed.
- Motion: To close the public hearing.
- Moved by: Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.
- Seconded by: Select Board Member Jim MacDonald.
- Vote:
  - Michelle Persson Reilly: Yes
  - Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.: Yes
  - Jim MacDonald: Yes
  - Dimitria Sullivan: Yes
  - Chair: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed (5-0).
- Motion: To approve the request from AT&T for the placement of a cellular wireless device at 671 High Street on the condition that there only be a single pole at the location in order to affix the AT&T wireless device.
- Moved by: Select Board Member Jim MacDonald.
- Seconded by: Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.
- Vote:
  - Michelle Persson Reilly: Yes
  - Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.: Yes
  - Jim MacDonald: Yes
  - Dimitria Sullivan: Yes
  - Chair: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed (5-0).

VII. Acceptance of Grants

Presentation: Rana Monadorfer, Assistant Finance Director.
- Grant: Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program (MassDEP).
- Amount: $12,500.
- Purpose: Incentivizes communities to purchase electric vehicles.
- Vehicles:
  - Purchase of a Ford F-150 Lightning for the Police Department (replacing a 2018 Ford F-150), assigned to a school resource officer and used for firearms training.
  - Lease of a Chevy Equinox for the Police Department (replacing a 2013 Ford Taurus).
- Funding: From the FY26 operating capital budget.
- Board Discussion:
  - Questions regarding EV battery warranties and the police department's first-time leasing of vehicles.
- Motion: To accept the Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program MassDEP grant.
- Moved by: Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.
- Seconded by: Select Board Member Jim MacDonald.
- Vote:
  - Michelle Persson Reilly: Yes
  - Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.: Yes
  - Jim MacDonald: Yes
  - Dimitria Sullivan: Yes
  - Chair: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed (5-0).

VIII. Request for Change Manager for Total Wines, 344 Providence Highway

Presentation: Attorney Trish Fonsworth and Robert Antonius.
- Request: Change of manager for Total Wines from Ali Muniv to Robert Antonius.
- Qualifications: Mr. Antonius has over 25 years of retail management experience and over three years with Total Wines in Dedham.
- Board Discussion:
  - Mr. Antonius confirmed awareness of Dedham's alcohol rules and regulations and highlighted the store's compliance with recent "compliance checks."
- Motion: To approve a change of manager for Total Wines, 344 Providence Highway, from Ali Muniv to Robert Antonius.
- Moved by: Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.
- Seconded by: Select Board Member Jim MacDonald.
- Vote:
  - Michelle Persson Reilly: Yes
  - Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.: Yes
  - Jim MacDonald: Yes
  - Dimitria Sullivan: Yes
  - Chair: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed (5-0).

IX. Recommended Pavement Management Program for Calendar Year 2026-2028

Presentation: Jason Mamone, Director of Engineering and Public Works.
- Program: 19th year of the program.
- Current PCI (Pavement Condition Index): 83 (above Commonwealth average).
- Funding: Exclusively using Chapter 90 state funds for the next three years due to lack of local funding.
  - Year 1: $950,000 (due to increased state allocation of $300 million for Chapter 90).
  - Years 2 & 3: Based on $200 million state allocation (conservative estimate).
- ADA Compliance: 30% of funding dedicated to repairing non-compliant ADA sidewalks and ramps.
  - Anticipated outcomes: 3.6 miles of newly repaved roadway, 1.4 miles of new ADA-compliant sidewalks, 85 ADA-compliant curb ramps.
- Board Discussion:
  - Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr. clarified Chapter 90 as state funds for road repairs and equipment. He noted that relying solely on Chapter 90 means fewer roads will be repaved, potentially leading to a decrease in the PCI within five years without additional investment.
  - Select Board Member Michelle Persson Reilly asked about the impact of additional local funds and project postponements due to utility work. Jason Mamone explained that additional funds would accelerate the plan, and utility coordination is ongoing to minimize disruption.
  - Select Board Member Jim MacDonald thanked the DPW for continuing ADA compliance efforts and acknowledged the financial constraints.
  - Chair noted the town's previous efforts to improve road ratings and expressed concern about potential degradation without sustained investment.
- Motion: To accept the recommended pavement management program for calendar year 2026 through 2028.
- Moved by: Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.
- Seconded by: Select Board Member Jim MacDonald.
- Vote:
  - Michelle Persson Reilly: Yes
  - Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.: Yes
  - Jim MacDonald: Yes
  - Dimitria Sullivan: Yes
  - Chair: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed (5-0).

X. Presentation by Polco of the National Community Survey Results

Presentation: Representative from Polco.
- Purpose: Dedham's first National Community Survey (NCS) to assess resident opinions on community livability and local government services.
- Methodology:
  - 3,000 randomly selected households received mailings (postcard, then survey with web link/QR codes).
  - 496 responses received (17% response rate, +/- 4% margin of error).
  - Demographic profile weighted to match census data.
  - An additional 467 responses received from an online open participation survey.
- Key Findings (based on random sample):
  - High Quality of Life: 8 in 10 residents gave positive ratings to Dedham as a place to live, overall quality of life, and as a place to raise children. 80% plan to stay for five years and would recommend living in Dedham.
  - Strong Sense of Safety: Nearly all residents felt safe in their neighborhoods during the day. High marks for fire services and ambulance/EMS.
  - Business & Service Environment: High ratings for overall quality and variety of businesses, and vibrancy of downtown commercial areas (exceeded national benchmark). Shopping opportunities scored 20 points above the national average.
  - Economic Opportunity & Cost of Living: Less favorable perceptions, but on par with national averages. 33% rated cost of living as excellent or good.
  - Arts & Culture: Strong marks for public library services and overall support for the arts.
  - Education & Childcare: More modest satisfaction with educational opportunities. Around half gave positive ratings to K-12 education (lower than national benchmark). 3 in 10 gave positive ratings to affordable quality childcare (lower than national benchmark).
  - Mobility & Maintenance: Mixed ratings. Ease of travel by car and public parking received positive ratings from 6 in 10. Traffic flow on major streets scored lower than the national benchmark. Snow removal and street lighting received positive ratings from 7 in 10.
  - Recreation & Environment: Residents appreciate local recreation programs. Overall air quality received high marks. Yard waste pickup and water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways) fell below national averages. Overall quality of Parks and Recreation opportunities and availability of parks and walking trails scored lower than the national benchmark.
- Custom Questions (Taxes & Services):
  - 6 in 10 residents felt they paid too much for services.
  - Half were satisfied with current tax levels and services.
  - 4 in 10 willing to pay more taxes for more services.
  - 3 in 10 willing to accept service reductions for lower taxes.
  - Top five choices for increasing taxes (vs. service reduction): maintenance of town/school facilities, road maintenance, school services, trash/recycling, fire department services.
  - Construction of new town facilities was the top choice for service reduction (49%).
  - 6 in 10 agreed the town should propose a property tax override to maintain school department services at current levels.
- Board Discussion:
  - Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr. inquired about potential biases in the 496 responses and differences between random and open participation surveys. He also questioned the national benchmark comparison, suggesting a need for custom benchmarks with comparable communities.
  - Select Board Member Michelle Persson Reilly emphasized the importance of understanding resident priorities and demographic breakdowns within Dedham.
  - Select Board Member Jim MacDonald questioned the utility of the open participation survey if its results weren't fully integrated and sought clarification on "utility billing." He also noted the low K-12 education rating compared to the national average.
  - Chair thanked Polco and Leon Goodwin for the data, highlighting its use as a tool for future planning and community conversations. She emphasized that climate change is a present issue with significant costs (e.g., increased AC needs, sewer flooding in Manor neighborhood).

XI. Final Report of the Water Resource Advisory Committee (WRAC)

Presentation: Jeremy Rosenberger, Planning Director.
- Establishment: By the Select Board in 2024.
- Objectives:
  1. Understand future water demand, capacity, and quality.
  2. Assess need for additional studies.
  3. Identify opportunities for sustainable water planning.
- Membership: Two Select Board members, two Planning Board members, one Conservation Commission member, two Dedham residents, staff from Dedham Westwood Water District, and Planning, Zoning, and Natural Resource Department.
- Leadership: Chair Jessica Porter, Vice Chair Dimitria Sullivan.
- Meetings: 11 meetings, culminating in May 2025. Heard from various stakeholders (Dedham-Westwood Water District, Charles and Neponset River Watershed Associations, Town Engineer, Conservation Commission).
- Findings:
  - Dedham has sufficient predicted drinking water supply (groundwater treatment and MWRA purchase) to handle future growth.
  - No additional town-funded studies recommended for drinking water demand, supply, or quality.
  - Recommended Continued Efforts: Pursue grants for water conservation, stormwater infrastructure, and soil conditions; engage with MWRA and local utilities; participate with regional communities and nonprofits.
  - Identified actions for various town boards/departments to support water quality/quantity.
- Board Discussion:
  - Select Board Member Dimitria Sullivan thanked the committee, particularly Jessica Porter, and suggested annual meetings with the Westwood Board, biannual updates from water commissioners, and a review of the 1985 Dedham-Westwood Water District governance document.
  - Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr. echoed thanks, noted the good news regarding water supply, and suggested future reviews.
  - Select Board Member Michelle Persson Reilly inquired about implementation oversight and top priorities for the Select Board. Jessica Porter (WRAC Chair) highlighted the importance of Select Board appointments to the Water District and explained that recommendations were made for various departments/boards to pursue.
  - Select Board Member Jim MacDonald thanked the committee, especially former member Kelsey, and supported meeting with Westwood and reviewing the district's enabling legislation. He also praised the committee's use of an end date.
  - Chair thanked the committee for their extensive work, the report's clear recommendations, and its timeliness given community questions about water. She emphasized simplifying the report for public understanding and committed to meeting with Westwood.
- Motion: To accept the final report of the Water Resources Advisory Committee and to resolve the committee with the board's appreciation.
- Moved by: Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.
- Seconded by: Select Board Member Jim MacDonald.
- Vote:
  - Michelle Persson Reilly: Yes
  - Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.: Yes
  - Jim MacDonald: Yes
  - Dimitria Sullivan: Yes
  - Chair: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed (5-0).

XII. Discussion: Electric Vehicle Policy and Municipal Decarbonization Roadmap

Presentation: Rana Monadorfer, Assistant Finance Director, and David Costello, Chair of the Sustainability Advisory Committee.
- Context: Part of the Climate Leader Community Certification (Green Communities 2.0) through DOER.
- Six Steps for Certification:
  1. Green Community in good standing (achieved).
  2. Establish local committee (Sustainability Advisory Committee is active).
  3. Municipal Decarbonization Commitment/Resolution (passed by Town Meeting on November 17th).
  4. Municipal Decarbonization Roadmap (evaluation of strategies, not requirements; can be updated internally).
    - Examples: Window/door improvements at Green Lodge, Riverdale, Oakdale schools (schematic design funding approved for FY26).
    - School Committee adopted the roadmap.
  5. Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) First Policy (similar to existing fuel-efficient vehicle policy).
    - Department heads consider EV/hybrid first; exemptions for police, fire, DPW if not practical.
    - DOER is not punitive; no funding pulled for non-EV purchases.
  6. Specialized Stretch Energy Code (adopted in 2024).
- Next Steps:
  - Select Board to vote on adopting the roadmap and ZEV policy by December 30th to meet the December certification deadline (next deadline is June).
  - Certification provides access to grants (10% grant match required).
- David Costello's Statement: Emphasized the long-standing effort (since 2010), the need for awareness, education, and advocacy. Highlighted the $50 million in state grants available until February 2027, with only 19 eligible communities currently. Urged early adoption to maximize grant opportunities.
- Board Discussion:
  - Select Board Member Michelle Persson Reilly appreciated the efforts and sought clarification on the binding nature of the roadmap and the definition of "operational needs" in the ZEV policy, particularly regarding budget constraints.
  - Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr. expressed caution regarding grant promises, noting that grants are competitive and not guaranteed. He acknowledged the long-term necessity of decarbonization but questioned the short-term financial implications for the town, especially given recent budget constraints (e.g., roads). He requested a meeting to learn more.
  - Select Board Member Jim MacDonald stated he voted no at Town Meeting, viewing the resolution as non-binding and representing a small portion of the town. He questioned the state's commitment to its own decarbonization roadmap given recent legislative discussions. He sought more structure on decision-making for EV procurement and raised concerns about EV infrastructure and fire safety. He also questioned why school window/door projects weren't pursued through MSBA grants.
  - Rana Monadorfer clarified that the DOER is not punitive, grants are competitive but Dedham has a strong track record, and the roadmap is a menu of options. She explained that the high school was prioritized for MSBA due to shovel-readiness. She offered to arrange a consultant presentation for the Board.
  - Chair acknowledged the thoughtful comments and the need for practical recommendations, clarifications, and workshop-style discussions. She reiterated that climate change is a present and costly problem (e.g., AC in schools, sewer flooding) and that the town is already making decisions in this area. She emphasized that grants are an added benefit, not the sole goal, and urged continued action despite the complexities.

XIII. Approval of Meeting Minutes

Motion: To approve the meeting minutes of June 18, 2025 (Executive Session) and October 9, 2025 (Regular Session).
Moved by: Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.
Seconded by: Select Board Member Jim MacDonald.
Vote:
- Michelle Persson Reilly: Yes
- Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.: Yes
- Jim MacDonald: Yes
- Dimitria Sullivan: Yes
- Chair: Yes
Outcome: Motion passed (5-0).

XIV. Old and New Business

Select Board Member Jim MacDonald: Thanked Dan Driscoll (Town Moderator) and Cheryl Ann Sheen for 33 years of service to the town, highlighting Driscoll's leadership during Town Meetings, including adaptations during COVID-19.
Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.: Wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and warned about a potentially severe flu season, urging vaccination and caution.

XV. Adjournment

Motion: To adjourn the meeting.
Moved by: Select Board Member Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.
Seconded by: Select Board Member Jim MacDonald.
Vote:
- Michelle Persson Reilly: Yes
- Dennis J. Teehan, Jr.: Yes
- Jim MacDonald: Yes
- Dimitria Sullivan: Yes
- Chair: Yes
Outcome: Motion passed (5-0).

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