Marblehead FinCom seeks answers

MARBLEHEAD – Finance Committee members are seeking more information on several key financial articles, including the proposed town acquisition of an estimated 2.58 acres of vacant Lafayette Street property commonly known as the Chadwick Lead Mills site.The current owner, Glover Estates, planned to build housing there but has taken no reported action since last year?s clean-up of lead and other soil contaminants.Town Administrator Tony Sasso said Monday night that the town is “one week away” from obtaining an appraisal on the property, which could be used for recreation or other town purposes.The FinCom postponed recommendations on seven articles covering employee contracts that are being negotiated, and held off on a proposed three-year, $4.94 million drainage plan until the Water and Sewer Commission supplies them with a cost benefit analysis. The plan was supported by Assistant Superintendent Amy McHugh and seven residents who said the plans would put a stop to flooding in their homes.The committee did recommend passage of $463,200 for water main construction, $665,334 for a pumping station, $324,000 for storm drains, $1.1 million for a fire department ladder truck and a $675,168 elevator to make the Old Town House handicapped accessible.Article 38, a proposed bylaw allowing police to ticket motorists using a cell phone while they drive, provoked some passionate discussion.Cell phones are regulated by the state, making such a town bylaw illegal. Sponsor Jonathan Magee, a former School Committee members and chairman, asked the FinCom if the town could pass the bylaw anyway, pointing out studies indicating that it is dangerous to drive while talking on a cell phone.?What is the worst case scenario if we pass this?” he asked.Town Clerk Robin Michaud said the bylaw proposal would be disapproved by the Attorney General?s office, which has the final say on all town bylaws. Police Chief Robert Picariello said Brookline had a similar law which was deemed to be unenforceable, and he would not place his officers in the position of pulling someone over and getting sued.?What I?m trying to do is stir up some interest and pass a resolution that we can send to the state,” Magee said. The FinCom took no action on the bylaw because it has no financial impact.