Performance Evaluation David A. Colton Town Administrator March 11, 2013 This month marks my 76th as Town Administrator. In accordance with my employment contract a thorough review of my performance and the establishment of goals and objectives are to be completed each year. In many ways, I believe that this, my seventh year, has been the most significant in terms of making real progress on important initiatives. When I was hired, the Selectmen outlined a number of areas that would require my focus. A significant issue was wastewater treatment. The planning for wastewater had stalled and the Town was stymied by what was described as a $100M problem. Today, the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan is complete, the Town s first municipal wastewater treatment plant is under construction and the Town has a clear path forward. Housing was also front and center. On the list were a 40B on Union Street and a potential Development near Stoneforge requiring a by-law change. Unknown at the time was the challenge we would face over Shovel Works. That 40B on Union Street has become the very attractive Winterberry Hills which, through the efforts of my office, the Conservation Commission, Selectmen, and Board of Appeals includes several acres of new Town owned open space, a significant contribution towards mitigating traffic issues at the intersection of Washington and Union Streets, an environmentally friendly storm water collection system, and 8 owner occupied units of affordable housing. The Development near Stoneforge turned out to be the Queset 40R mixed use development which did in fact require a major zoning change, but most importantly this year took its first steps towards construction. I continue to work closely with the developer and Planning Board to make sure it realizes its full potential of positive economic benefit to the town. The Shovel Works development is in full swing after years of determined effort by many people in town. I am proud of the role I played in making that happen. Perhaps I am even more proud of the Affordable Housing Trust, which I initiated a few years ago. This year it has finally begun to deliver fully on its promise. Two homes have been purchased by moderate income families and will remain affordable forever thanks to the Trust s homebuyer assistance program. The trust has also initiated its small repair program to help keep people in their affordable homes and recently held its first (and very well attended) Affordable Housing Fair. Our housing efforts have been recognized by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, we are held up as a success story, and example for others to follow. Seven years ago housing was seen as part of the problem; today it is part of the solution. When Governor Patrick signed the Green Communities Act I immediately took steps to make sure Easton was designated as a green community. Today, we are the only Green
Community in Bristol County, have completed the first round of energy reduction projects, and are well on our way to reducing our energy consumption by 20 percent. In addition, all is ready to begin construction of a solar power facility that will generate one third of town government s electricity needs. We have taken the first steps to convert our street lighting to LED which will reduce energy consumption by street lights by 50%. Easton has established itself as a leader among Massachusetts communities in energy conservation and alternative energy development. Fiscally I feel as though the manner in which we took the town through the recession has resulted in, this year, being in position to once again dare to think about actually improving, rather than preserving services. All in all, the results that are coming together this year after many years of hard work are exceeding my expectations. Below are the goals that were set for this year. I will evaluate, for your consideration, my performance based on the following scale. Exceeds expectations Meets expectations Failed to meet expectations At the completion of this review I will ask that you approve a new three year employment contract expiring in fiscal year 2016. 1. Financial Town Administrator shall work closely with the Selectmen, Finance Committee, Budget Sub-committee, and Town Accountant in providing financial leadership. Objectives: Develop an FY 2014 expense forecast by mid-fall 2012 Enter bond market for FY 2013 capital program early in fiscal year to take advantage of low interest rates Hold no fewer than 3 budget sub-committee meetings in the fall of 2012 to articulate fiscal goals and objectives, as well as strategies for implementation, to the town Identify areas for savings and potential budget busters Gather departmental budget requests and refine them in coordination with department heads during January 2013 Present a fiscal year 2014 budget and budget message on or before April 1, 2013 as required by the Town Charter. Colton: Exceeds Expectations. We maintained our bond rating and sold $1,575,000 in General Obligation Bonds, Series A (Taxable) at a net 2.40% interest rate and $6,230,000 in General Obligation Bonds, Series B (Tax-Exempt) at a net 2.07% interest
rate; We also refinanced existing debt saving $246,805; Short term notes netted a 0.55% interest rate. The FY 14 preliminary budget was presented ahead of schedule on February 11, 2013. Barlow: Exceeds Expectations-I have been on the BOS the past six years and, as this is my last, wanted to leave with some general comments about David Colton s performance as Town Administrator. The list of initiatives and goals accomplished during these years is strikingly impressive, and wouldn t have been accomplished if not for David s creativity, perseverance, negotiation skills, and resourcefulness. Just off the top of my head: leading Easton through the recession/depression years with far fewer losses of personnel and services than most other cities/towns; and restoring positions over 2-3 years in a fiscally responsible way switching Easton s gears from having to accept 40B proposals to now being in a position of more control; making sufficient progress in increasing our affordable housing inventory that the Town can say no and already has. This includes using the 40B law to fulfill Town goals, such as saving the Ames Shovel Works through a creative agreement partnering with Beacon Communities. In addition to its national preservation importance, that agreement stands to make the Town quite a bit of money from condo sales down the road. Also, as David pointed out above, the Affordable Housing Trust Fund was his idea; and it was his chairmanship of the Trust s board the first year that gave it credence and a plan of action that has already resulted in two existing Easton homes now being perpetually affordable to those with moderate incomes. negotiating mitigations from developers, including open green space, traffic intersection improvements, and the Shovel Shop wastewater treatment plant idea breaking through persisting pessimism that the wastewater treatment problem would ever be solved, resulting in a doable plan with its first phase underway. guiding Easton to a more sustainable use of energy resources, building on Easton s strong identity with conservation and open-space preservation; because of his ideas and commitment, Easton is truly a leader in this area. And because of things like the landfill solar photovoltaic project and our Green Community plan to reduce energy usage in Town and School buildings by 20%, the Town is already savings tens of thousands. It has been my distinct pleasure to work with David. I can easily say that Easton is better off now than when he started and that he Exceeds Expectations in about every area.
Corona: Exceeds expectations. Easton has weathered the storm better than most, thanks in large part to David s conservative approach. The town has been proactive in taking advantage of the current interest environment, which has generated significant savings. David continuously looks for ways to streamline operations and lower costs. Gornstein: Exceeds expectations. TA did a fine job, after the year ended, managing the budget. Murphy: Exceeds Expectations. The budget process has been smooth and productive and we have taken advantage of low rates by being proactive. Noonan: Exceeds Expectations. Sound financial management has led to continuing approval from the credit markets, which translates into significant cost savings to the Town. David has been adept at recognizing this favorable outlook on the Town to leverage new projects and update and improve Town resources. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I would once again suggest that the development of a three to five year forecast be completed and communicated to the public this year to provide a roadmap for our near future and ensure future stability while working to restore past service-level losses. 2. Human Resources Management and Labor Relations The Town Administrator shall interact with employee groups in good faith; in an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust. Objectives: Resolve open contracts in a manner reflective of current economic pressures. Produce wage and benefit agreements that are fiscally sound IF all collective bargaining agreements are in place by early FY 2013 I plan to review and revise personnel policies as necessary Develop a performance evaluation tool for clerical employees Prepare and submit a revised Personnel Plan Colton: Meets Expectations. It has been a difficult year for collective bargaining with the well-known issues surrounding fire fighter talks and the division of the DPW unit into two. The clerical performance evaluation tool was developed and successfully implemented. Barlow: Exceeds Expectations. I would expect problems to arise sometimes in difficult union negotiations. Corona: Meets expectations.
Gornstein: Meet expectations. Murphy: Meets Expectations. I am hopeful that the one outstanding union contract will be resolved shortly. Noonan: Meets Expectations. Little can be added to David s assessment here. I have certainly appreciated his work to keep the Board up-to-date with all the dealings he has with the various work units in Town. 3. Community Relations The Town Administrator shall be an active participant in the Easton community. Objectives: Attend off hours community events Develop positive and productive relationships with civic, business, and other groups important to the Town of Easton Continue to produce regular local access TV programming to improve the dissemination of information to the community. Conduct the town s business in an open and transparent manner; maintain credibility with the media and general public. Colton: Meets Expectations. I have attended off hours events and maintained good relationships with groups such as the Easton Chamber of Commerce, Metro South Chamber, Easton Lion s Club, and Easton Food Pantry. I produced four episodes of Town Manager TV and continue to operate in a transparent manner. Barlow: Exceeds Expectations. Corona: Exceeds expectations. David continues to be very responsive to the citizens of Easton. He is supportive of efforts to increase the amount of information available to the public. He has done several presentations in the community this year, continues to produce his television show, and attends many after-hours events. Gornstein: Exceeded expectations. I feel his commitment to our business organizations and ECAT on off hour time is noteworthy. Murphy: Exceeds Expectations- Appearing at public forums, such as the Chamber meeting, and quick responses to questions create a very user friendly town government. Noonan: Exceeds Expectations: David continues to make himself available to the many organizations around Town. His professionalism and positivity abounds in his many interactions with our citizens, business owners and with Stonehill College.
4. Quality of Life The Town Administrator shall develop and support programs that improve the quality of life for all Easton residents. Work with the Crossroads Veteran s District to insure delivery of needed services to Easton Veterans. Support the new Agricultural Commission and Land Use Agent in creating a better environment for local farming Support the Cultural Council in the establishment of an Easton Cultural District Colton: Meets Expectations. I believe that the quality of Life in Easton is good and I am proud of my efforts to ensure it continues to thrive. The Agricultural Commission has been very active, especially in establishing a new location and improved farmer s market which includes a very popular winter market. Barlow: Exceeds expectations. The three itemized goals are only a small part of quality of life improvements that have strengthened our community. Corona: Exceeds expectations. One of the things David does best is provide support those who bring forth great ideas. He wants Easton to be a better place, and it shows. Gornstein: Meets expectations. Murphy: Meets Expectations. I would include the support of the Keach Park as a positive addition Noonan: Meets Expectations. David has been very supportive of numerous programs, all of which absolutely enrich the quality of life in Easton. Continued analysis and development of our relationship with the Crossroads Veterans District will be necessary to ensure we are getting everything we hoped for from the agreement. 5. Planning and Economic Development The Town Administrator shall actively participate in the planning process especially with regard to housing, economic development, open space enhancement, historic preservation, and transportation enhancement. Objectives: Work closely with the Ames family and the Trustees of Reservations in the establishment of the Governor Ames Reservation. Continue to find ways to enhance staff support for the Historical Commission, Community Preservation Committee, Planning
Board, Conservation Commission and other committees of the Town. Develop further support of the Recreation Commission s land development goals utilizing existing staff. Work to insure that the planned preservation and reuse of the Easton Shovel Works as housing is implemented with success. Support and participate in the Master Planning process Colton: Exceeds Expectations. This is an area of significant accomplishment despite having to a transition between Planning Directors. The Governor Ames Reservation is a reality, our housing programs are thriving and recognized by the Commonwealth for their effectiveness, staff actively supports several boards and committees, and the Master Planning Process has been successfully initiated with the naming of a planning consultant and Steering Committee. Barlow: Exceeds Expectations, Corona: Exceeds expectations. David has truly excelled in this area. David s creative approach to problem solving, and his vision for the future, have been critically important over this past year in moving these important initiatives forward. Gornstein: Exceeded expectations. TA has helped in area of land planning and preservation. The Trustees of Reservation agreement is one fine example of his helpful assistance in looking out for Easton and the preservation of its history. Murphy: Exceeds Expectations. Planning and vision is a strength of this town and DC has provided much needed leadership in this area Noonan: Exceeds Expectations. A staggering amount of planning and progress has been made in this regard. I m not sure anyone could point to another local community and claim that they have done more than Easton has to plan for the future. If there were a Exceeds Expectations Plus designation available for consideration, David would earn that here. 6. Infrastructure and Public Works The Town Administrator shall actively participate in the development infrastructure improvement planning and implementation. Objectives: of Shepherd the completion of the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan.
Monitor the construction of the North Easton Wastewater Treatment Facility and collection system. Assist with the implementation of energy efficiency and conservation measures proposed by DPW Assist the DPW, School Department and Green Communities Committee in implementing the five year plan and further grant applications to the DOER for its implementation. Convert street lights to LED Assist the DPW Director in planning and construction of transportation enhancements in the following locations: Route 123 at Center Street Intersection of Routes 138 and 106. Route 138 at Union Street Route 138 at Elm Street Colton: Exceeds Expectations. In addition to the above, the Town has received approval to design the improvements to Depot Street in anticipation of state funding of $5M. Barlow: Exceeds Expectations. Corona: Exceeds expectations. We are finally beginning to address our wastewater needs thanks in large part to David s efforts, and the downtown revitalization will begin soon. Our green initiatives are paying off. Recent proposals by the DPW will further improve Easton s infrastructure. Gornstein: Exceeded expectations. TA has been instrumental in placing himself in the middle of making sure our intersections are safe. After careful review of the numbers over time, the street light purchase project will save Easton money. Being proactive in planning and designing of intersection safety enhancements is another fine example of looking toward the future, near and far, for Easton. Murphy: Exceeds Expectations. I would include the implementation of the Paving Management system Noonan: Exceeds Expectations. Infrastructure developments abound and next year promises many more needed improvements. While unglamorous, this is easily one of the most visible signs of success around Town. 7. Town Government Efficiency and Effectiveness The Town Administrator shall strive to improve the overall effectiveness and efficiency of Town government. Objectives: Ensure that appointed town boards and committees are adequately supported by staff;
Establish Central Public Safety Dispatch before June 30, 2013 Strive to ensure that the best possible quality of services is delivered to the public with courtesy and respect at all times. Continue to annually review the performance of essential department heads and Town Counsel Continue the enhancement of the Town s capabilities with regard to the web site and social media. Colton: Exceeds Expectations. Town Boards and Committees are well supported by staff and department head evaluations were completed as scheduled. The Public Safety Dispatch efforts are in the final stages of implementation and our use of social media to keep the public informed during emergencies is just one example of our enhanced capabilities. Later this year we will unveil a new and more user friendly town web site. Barlow: Exceeds Expectations. Corona: Exceeds expectations. David embraces new technology, from the new management systems, to GIS and citizen connect. His efforts to consolidate dispatch will allow more firefighters to be available for service in the community. Gornstein: Meets expectations. Murphy: Exceeds Expectations Noonan: Exceeds Expectations. David and his staff are consistently evaluating new tools to deliver high-quality service to the Town, and I support all continuing efforts to do so. Leveraging technology to build and maintain relationships with our citizens, business owners and other public and private organizations is smart, and increasingly expected. Materials generated for review by Staff continue to be excellent. 8. Service and Support to the Board of Selectmen The Town Administrator shall be responsive to the needs of the Board of Selectmen. Objectives: Keep the Selectmen well informed of the matters under his control Prepare high quality analyses and accurate information regarding the various issues facing the Town Include an update on at least one project or department at each meeting of the Board Colton: Meets Expectations. I believe that the Board is kept well informed.
Barlow: Meets Expectations. The system works, with information flowing through the chair, but with him always willing to answer our questions. No need to exceed those expectations! Corona: Exceeds expectations. David keeps the Board well informed. It has been, and continues to be, a pleasure to work with him. Gornstein: Meets expectations. Murphy: Exceeds Expectations. Communication, be it a presentation or an impromptu question, is effective and consistent. Noonan: Meets Expectations. David continues to deliver a high level of performance in this regard. 9. Relationships with other levels of Government The Town Administrator shall strive to establish positive working relationships with agencies of other towns, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the Government of the United States. Objectives: Review, analyze, represent and present the position of the town and Board of Selectmen relative to implemented and proposed legislation and governmental policies and regulations. Pursue funding opportunities in support of town priorities and policy goals. Stay abreast of and perform research involving governmental legislation, policies and regulations. Colton: Meets Expectations. I have presented the Town s views to State government on a number of issues of these include the Commuter Rail Project, Wastewater needs, and transportation needs. Funding opportunities have been achieved including wastewater construction and main street improvements. Barlow: Exceeds Expectations. The expectation always was that we wouldn t qualify for many grants because of Easton s socioeconomics. So getting these grants by tying them to state-supported housing projects is great, especially without a grant writer on staff. We also got grants through our Green Communities designation and for sidewalk/school parking lot infrastructure improvements through our Participation in the Safe Routes to Schools Program, both of which David prompted.
Corona: Exceeds expectations. We have had so much success with grants, in part because David has worked so hard to tie projects together to leverage the grant process. Gornstein: Exceeded expectations. TA has a great working relationship with the Commonwealth. He is well regarded and seems to get the answers we need. I feel he keeps abreast of not only what is happening in Easton, but also at State level and always seems to be well informed of State level information. Murphy: Meets Expectations Noonan: Exceeds Expectations. David continues to be exceptional in this regard, and Easton is the beneficiary of his, and the Chair s, work in this area. So much of the successes in Planning and Development (section five above) are due to efforts made to strengthen relationships with surrounding towns, and State and Federal agencies. 10. Personal and professional growth The Town Administrator shall pursue his continued growth and advancement and enhance his education for the good of the town. Objectives: Objective: Attend professional meetings, seminars and conferences including the International City Management Association annual conference in September and the MMA conference in January. Objective: Continue active membership in state and national professional organizations. Colton: Exceeds Expectations. In lieu of the ICMA conference, this year I will attend the American Planning Association conference in April. I have maintained my membership in the Massachusetts Municipal Managers Association. In addition, I have been appointed by the Massachusetts Municipal Association Board of Directors to serve on the MMA s Personnel and Labor Relations Policy Committee. This year I have not only attended seminars, I was a featured speaker at two seminars in the past year. One on housing and one on human resources practices. Barlow: Exceeds Expectations. Corona: Exceeds expectations. Gornstein: Meets expectations. Murphy: Meets Expectations
Noonan: Exceeds Expectations. I appreciate David s willingness to bring back the best practices of other towns and beyond, and blend those with what is already working here in Easton. I am pleased that the MMA and others recognize his expertise and seek him out to fill key roles in their organizations, which benefits the Town as well.