USA > Massachusetts > Barnstable County > Harwich > Town annual reports of the selectmen and overseers of the poor of the town of Harwich 1959 > Part 4
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Ocean Avenue, S. Harwich
C. L. Wrought Iron
2"
171'
Middleton Drive
C. L. Wrought Iron
2"
434'
Private Way off Riverside Dr.
C. L. Wrought Iron
11%"
126'
Private Way off Orleans Road
C. L. Wrought Iron
11/2"
166'
Hudson Lane
C. L. Wrought Iron
11%"
48'
Shore Road Extension
C. L. Wrought Iron
11/2"
85'
Private Way off Hoyt Road
C. L. Wrought Iron
11/2"
439'
Total
9,163'
Water Consumption
Rainfall
Gallons
Rainfall
Gallons
January
2.05 inches
4,803,180
July
5.66 inches
23,614,670
February
5.41 inches
4,124,800
August
2.31 inches
27,647,290
March
7.35 inches
4,528,210
September
54 inches
16,648,180
April
3.99 inches
5,970,000
October
5.96 inches
7,727,170
May
1.88 inches
11,361,110
November
4.33 inches
5,141,460
June
6.34 inches
15,608,420
December
3.78 inches
4,893,290
Total Rainfall-49.60 Total Gallons Pumped-132,067,780
Average daily consumption (8 months)
199,791 gals.
Average daily consumption (June, July, Aug. and Sept.)
684,578 gals.
Largest monthly consumption-August
27,647,290 gals.
Largest weekly consumption-ending August 23
7,413,750 gals.
Largest daily consumption-August 20
1,384,800 gals.
Hours of Operation-Fairbanks Diesel
19 hrs. 45 mins.
Hours of Operation-Sterling Diesel
29 hrs. 0 mins.
Hours of Operation-Buda Gasoline
4 hrs. 0 mins.
Hours of Operation-100 H. P. Electric Motor
2 hrs. 0 mins.
Hours of Operation- 60 H. P. Electric Motor
160 hrs. 15 mins.
Hours of Operation- 50 H. P. Electric Motor
1,106 hrs. 0 mins.
Hours of Operation- 40 H. P. Electric Motor
3,855 hrs 0 mins.
363'
Crosby Road
C. L. Wrought Iron
49
SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTS ENDING DECEMBER 31, 1959 Commitments
1957 Balance Outstanding January 1, 1959 $82.24
1957 Collections made in 1959 4.35
77.89
Less Water Liens Added to Taxes 1959
16.00
1957 Balance Outstanding Dec. 31, 1959 $61,89
1958 Balance Outstanding Jan. 1, 1959
3,558.17
Less Water Liens Added to Taxes 1959
93.66
3,464.51
1958 Collections made in 1959
3,464.51
1958 Balance Outstanding Dec. 31, 1959
None
1959 Commitments
83,998.83
Less Refunds and Abatements
222.64
83,776.19
Less Water Liens Added to Taxes 1959
6.00
83,770.19
1959 Collections
78,926.54
1959 Balance Outstanding Dec. 31, 1959
4,843.65
Total Balance Outstanding Dec. 31, 1959
$4,905.54
Recipts
Minimum Charges
$56,581.19
Excess Water
10,892.40
Service Connections
14,224.71
Miscellaneous
697.10
Total 1959 Collections
Paid to Town Treasurer
$82,395.40 $82,395.40
Expenditures
Principal on Water Loans
$50,000.00
Interest on Water Loans
11,590.00
Maintenance and Operation Administration
$12,647.33
General
18,620.53
Pumping Station
6,439.65
37,707.51
Service Connections
14,499.72
Total 1959 Operating Expenses $113,797.23
50
SPECIAL ACCOUNTS
Water Extension
Payments
4,935.81
1959 Approp.
$5,000.00
Balance to 1960
84.81
Balance from 1958
20.62
$5,020.62
$5,020.62
New Truck
Payments
$2,303.97
1959 Approp.
$2,700.00
Balance to Revenue 396.03
$2,700.00
$2,700.00
Addition to Garage
Payments
$8,000.00
Transferred from
Balance
None
Const. A/C-1959
$8,000.00
$8,000.00
$8,000.00
Sequattom Road
Payments
$952.85
Balance from 1958 $3,461.76
Balance to 1960
2,508.91
$3,461.76
$3,461.76
Off Riverside Drive
Payments
$351.00
Balance from 1958
$669.02
Balance to 1960
318.02
$669.02
$669.02
Off Orleans Road
Payments
$356.88
1959 Approp.
$510.00
Balance to 1960
153.12
$510.00
$510.00
Hamilton Place
Payments
$786.76
1959 Approp.
$890.00
Balance to 1960
103.24
$890.00
$890.00
Pinewood Lane
Payments
$888.19 81.81
1959 Approp.
$970.00
Balance to 1960
$970.00
$970.00
Lincoln Village
Payments
$1,789.26 155.74
1959 Approp.
$1,945.00
Balance to 1960
$1,945.00
$1,945.00
51
Moody Road
Payments
$1,673.10 211.90
1959 Approp.
$1,885.00
Balance to 1960
$1,885.00
$1,885.00
Pleasant Lake Avenue
Payments
$894.03
Balance from 1958
$894.03
Balance to 1960
None
$894.03
$894.03
Painting Standpipe
Payments
$1,333.89
Transferred from
Balance to 1960
666.11
Const. A/C-1959
$2,000.00
$2,000.00
$2,000.00
Painting Elevated Water Tank
Payments
$2,380.00
Transferred from
Balance to 1960
620.00
Const. A/C-1959
$3,000.00
$3,000.00
$3,000.00
Relocating Hydrant
Payments
$319.79
1959 Approp.
$485.00
Balance to 1960
165.21
$485.00
$485.00
Electrification of Pumping Equipment
Payments
None Balance from 1958 $3,528.56
Balance to 1960
3,528.56
$3,528.56
$3,528.56
Construction A/C
Payments
$2,950.69
Transf. from
Balance to 1960
4,730.48
various accts.
$20,681.17
Transf. to vari-
$7,681.17
ous accounts 13,000.00
1959 Balance $7,681.17
Respectfully submitted,
FRANCIS J. HIBBERT NORMAN O. NICKERSON Board of Water Commissioners GEORGE GARDNER Superintendent and Collector
1
52
Report of the Sealer of Weights and Measures
To The Honoarble Board of Selectmen,
Town of Harwich, Massachusetts
Gentlemen:
I hereby submit the annual report of the Sealer of Weights and Measures for the year ending December 31, 1959.
Total fees received, which have been turned in to the Town Treasurer
$111.80
Adjusted
Sealed
Not Sealed
Con- demned
Platform 10,000 lbs. & over
1
Platform 5,000 to 10,000 lbs.
1
Platform 100 to 5,000 lbs.
7
Counter 100 lbs. or over
1
14
1
Counter under 100 lbs.
20
Computing 100 lbs. or over
9
Prescription
3
Avoirdupois
11
Apothecary Troy
27
Metric
28
Meters 1-in. Inlet
1
47
1
Grease Measuring Devices
12
Yard Sticks
2
Vehicle Tank Meters
5
2
Retest of Gasoline Devices after sealing
3
Inspection of
Pedlar's Licenses (2)
Inspection of Transient
Vendor's Licenses (3)
2
190
3
1
Respectfully submitted,
JOHN H. REDGATE Sealer of Wts. & Measures
1
53
Report of the Veterans' Agent
To The Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
The drastic change in the Federal Veterans Administation program which we predicted in our 1957 report is now close at hand. On July 1, 1960 the entire pension and compensation system has been approved by Congress and the Act signed by President Eisenhower, while he was in Europe. Unless the law is changed by Congress prior to next July thousands of veterans will actually be pauperized. The effect the law will have on local Veterans Departments is sure to be felt, as many who are now able to maintain a proper American standard of living, will be obliged to apply for additional benefits from the local agencies. Thus we can look ahead, and must be prepared by increased budgets, to meet the anticipated extra demands.
Again Harwich is faced with several unfortunate cases which will require long and expensive hospitalization. Also we must realize that the average age of WW I veterans is now over 65 and the WW II and Korean vets are requiring more and more medical assistance. Thus, it will be necessary for us to face the potential of mounting numbers and cost.
Cape Cod, however, is among the most fortunate sections of the Commonwealth. We have as a particular friend, the Commissioner who has a summer home in West Harwich. In addition to Commissioner Collatos we have another staunch friend of the veteran in the person of State Investigator "Bud" McManus who has a permanent home in West Dennis. These men dedicated to the service of all veterans will assure the Cape the top priority in every possible elegibility and benefit, and prompt attention.
We again remind the public of the provision of Chapter 115 of the General Laws of Massachusetts. This generous and grateful law recognizes the sacrifices made by our service men and appreciates the fact that when they entered the services in time of war, they lost the most important privilege under the Constitution, their right to FREEDOM and LIBERTY. Hence the Commonwealth aids the veteran, his wife, his chil- dren and his parents when NEED exists. This provision now contributes much to the cost of operating a Veterans Services Department, for there are many parents who are entitled to
54
assistance. However, the recent Lien Law protects the Town in cases where the children are unable to contribute to their parents, and when they become estates, the Town may exer- cise the Real Estate Lien and recover the total amount of benefits paid out. This Law does not effect the veterans or the recipient but it does give the taxpayers some protection, and ALL veterans are taxpayers.
During the past year this Department alleviated all re- quests for assistance and over 100 separate individuals were given temporary aid. We salute the modest claims made against the Department and the patriotic cooperation of all unfortunate veterans. We received prompt attention always from the busy doctors and in several cases their sympathetic interest meant the saving of lives. We inherited two out of Town Nursing Home cases and two local cases involved un- usual and lengthy hospitalization . . . one an unfortunate 3rd degree burns accident and another a sad case of Lukemia.
We have enjoyed working with the Town Officials, the Selectmen, the Highway and Park Departments, and the ex- cellent spirit of cooperation between these agencies in their efforts to provide work for many vets rather than aid, is hereby acknowledged and appreciated.
May 1960 bring peace, prosperity and happines to all.
Respectfully submitted, HARRY B. ALBRO, Director and Agent
Report of the Board of Registrars
To the Honorable Board of Selectmen and Citizens of Harwich:
The Board of Registrars of the town submit their report for the year 1959.
We now have on our lists a total of 2652 registered voters as follows: Women-1417, Men-1235. This is a decrease of 12 voters over the year 1958.
Respectfuly submitted, M. KATHLEEN WIXON, Chm. HELENA T. MAGUIRE JOSEPH V. GAVIN Registrars
55
Report of the Planning Board
To the Honorable Board of Selectmen:
During the year 1959 the Planning Board held thirteen advertised Public Hearings on subdivision plans. All were approved without objection from abutters. Thirty-seven ad- ditional plans, not requiring hearings, were reviewed and signed for proper recording at the Barnstable Registry of Deeds or Land Court in Boston.
Membership in the Massachusetts Federation of Plan- ning Boards has been continued as well as membership in the Cape Cod Planning Board Association. These meetings have had representation from our local Board. The Planning Board has also been represented at all called meetings of the Board of Appeals as well as on the Harwich Conservation Commis- sion.
The excellent cooperation of the Board of Selectmen, Board of Appeals, Building Inspector, Surveyors and Engi- neers, in assisting to carry out the Rules and Regulations is greatly appreciated.
The following is a report of the expenditures for the year: Appropriation
$200.00
Legal advertising of subdivisions
$28.65
Telephone, postage and supplies 13.35
Mass. Federation of Planning Boards
20.00
Cape Cod Planning Board Association
5.00
Total
$67.00
Unexpended balance to revenue
133.00
$200.00
Respectfully submitted,
A. F. TROWBRIDGE, Chairman C. W. JOHNSON
ESTHER A. STIDSTONE, Clerk ROSWELL H. NYE
DR. C. S. CROSBY
Harwich Planning Board
56
Report of the Conservation Commission
To the Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
The Conservation Commission, established in 1957 under Chapter 223, has continued to function during the past year. It has met seven times, once with Fire Chief Charles A. Hall and once with Darrell Shepard of the U. S. Dept of Agricul- ture. The original Wednesday meetings have been changed to the second Tuesday of each month, are held in the Town Office Building at 7:30 p.m. and are open to the public. In ac- cordance with the original thinking of the Commission it has been concerned with two basic lines of action, one a short range plan of research, coordination and recommendations. The second, a long range plan which would provide for pro- motion, development and preservation of our natural re- sources.
At the March meeting, Darrell Shepard of the Barnstable Soil Conservation District and U. S. Dept. of Agriculture out- lined many facets of Conservation and the various types of service he is prepared to offer. Small land-owners, as well as those with extensive acreage may profit by his aid. Soil maps can be provided, as well as advice on building ponds and park areas, road planting, shore erosion and many others too num- erous to list here. When requested, Mr. Shepard offered spe- cific advice on maintenance of the watershed and surveys on the Recreation Area, north of Brooks Park, as well as the newly developed Sand Pond beach. He also recommended the purchase of Aerial Maps covering the entire Town. These maps have been secured and will prove invaluable when plot- ting open areas, marshes, etc. In the near future, it is hoped that these maps will be suitably mounted for display and practical use. Excellent films and literature are available for use in the schools and in this connection, special pamphlets have already been distributed in the Elementary and High Schools by Mrs. Virginia S. Doane.
In the late Fall, Mrs. Carol Baldwin and Mrs. Gertrude Radway met with the Commission and offered the services of the Girl Scout troops. They enumerated in detail, a long list of many ways in which the girls may be helpful in the de- velopment and preservation of the natural resources, for the community.
57
Due to pressure of other duties, Virginia S. Doane re- signed in October. Alice Champion Morris of the Playground and Recreation Commission was appointed to take her place and serve out the unexpired term as Secretary.
It is the hope of the Harwich Conservation Commission that it will be able to make specific recommendations for the coming year. Attention is called to the Act wherein it is provided that the Commission may receive gifts of funds, lands, buildings and other properties. Also, as authorized in Section C, "the Commission may receive a sum, not exceeding in any one year, one-twentieth of one per cent of the assessed valuation of the Town, but in no event more than $15,000.00."
Therefore, the Commission is requesting the very modest sum of two hundred and fifty dollars ($250.00) for operational expenses.
About the time this report goes to press, the tentative plans for a Joint Conservation Meeting in Harwich, will have become a reality. The Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce, Barn- stable, Sandwich, Eastham and Harwich Commissions are all participating in the program planning for this event.
Respectfully submitted,
Harwich Conservation Commission FRANCIS J. HIBBERT, Chairman MABEL RICE C. WILLIAM JOHNSON ROBERT B. MEGATHLIN
DONALD T. BATES
ALICE V. CHAMPION MORRIS, Secy.
58
Annual Report of the Playground and Recreation Commission
Reviewing our tenth year in operation, we find that 13,507 individuals have used our better equipped building. Pro- viding a more comfortable and healthful atmosphere for all, the new heating system in the Recreation Building has proved a worthwhile investment. At the same time, the removal of the ancient coal-consuming "black monsters" has increased the usable floor space. A safe, fire-proof stairway leads to the sanitary facilities in the basement. Installation of the forced hot water system has freed the custodian from hours of useless back-breaking labor carrying coal and ashes thus permitting him to spend his time in more constructive en- deavors.
Under the able direction of Thomas E. Curran, Jr. the Sports Program has expanded :- the attendance and par- ticipation in all classes tripled over the previous summer. Of particular interest was the increased enrollment in the Swim- ming Classes. Sand Pond, being void of fog and undertow and characterized by gently sloping bottom contributed in a large measure to the success of the program. In contrast to last year, no swimming classes were cancelled because of fog, nor was the instruction hindered by beach crowds. During the summer of 1959, 67 Beginners received Swimming In- struction; 14 Intermediates were all awarded certificates; and of the 13 Junior and Senior Life Savers, 8 were qualified. Of primary importance is the compelling needs to maintain max- imum safety, and due to the increased enrollment and ever growing interest in the Swimming Program, the addition of an assistant-instructor is urgent, and cannot be over em- phasized.
Forty boys registered for Baseball Lessons, and 15 boys and girls for Tennis Instruction. One 'highlight' of the season was Group Activities Day, which was held weekly. The young- sters gathered at Brooks Park to play volley, kick, dodge and softball, and to take part in Treasure Hunts and hikes. The second annual Field Day, once again topped the season, and brought the program to a close.
The Commission worked closely with both Mr. Shepherd of the Department of Soil Conservation and a representative of the Department of Natural Resources. Mr. Shepherd made
59
recommendations for all areas under the care of the Com- mission, and Mr. Hans, of the Department of Natural Re- sources, made a reconnaisance survey and drew up a map showing the potential development of the Sand Pond Area.
One of the most significant accomplishments this year is the acquiring and development of the Sand Pond Area. The purchase of a 12 ft. boat has helped with the teaching of the Life Saving Classes, and of course is a necessity in case of any emergency which might arise.
A new dock is planned for next summer, constructed of telephone poles, which are being supplied and delivered at the Sand Pond Area at no cost to the Commission. The gen- erous gift of a sizeable building, which has been transported to the area, will solve the problem of necessary housing for valuable equipment. However, a concrete foundation will need to be constructed and an overhead door installed before it can be used.
The Commission has continued to be most interested in the progress of the Harwich Junior Theatre. This past sea- son, the Commission gave no financial help to the Workshop as it has in previous years. However, the Recreation Com- mission does underwrite the Creative Arts classes held 5 mornings a week for 4 weeks in mid-summer. This, too, was a most successful and worthwhile experience for the 90 youngsters who attended the sessions.
FORREST EATON, Chairman ALICE MORRIS, Secretary VIRGINIA DOANE, Treasurer EARLE BASSETT WILLIAM CHANDLER
60
Report of the Park Department
To the Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
During the year 1959, the Park Department Commis- sioners have succeeded in fulfilling the many and several wishes of the voters of the town. Among these wishes can be listed the following:
BROOKS PARK: The regular landscaping, servicing and policing duties were carried on in detail. The fence enclosing the double tennis court was given a new coat of aluminum paint. Also one new tennis net and a set of tapes were pur- chased. Did more repair work on the band stand. All neces- sary painting which was required was done. Repaired picnic tables and benches. Both shuffle board courts were repainted and numbered. Brushed out about three quarters of the wooded area and burned the brush. The drain from route 39 leading in to the picnic areea was filled with stone. After expert advice from both State and Federal experts to stop erosion as this has caused the loss of many trees. All rose bushes, shrubs, and small trees were pruned and fertilized and sprayed. The Harwich Fire Association was granted per- mission to place their Memorial Stone in this Park which they have done to Honor their Dead.
HARWICHPORT PARKING LOT: The parking lot was brushed and new lines were painted for parking cars. The comfort station was opended from June 10 to September 19 with attendant keeping the building clean daily. Also the inside of the comfort station was given the second coat of paint.
SQUARES: All fourteen squares received regular weekly attention. Flowers, plants, bulbs, etc. were rotated and culti- vated and many new plants added throughout the spring and summer seasons.
LONG POND PUBLIC BEACH: The picnic area was made larger this year and was used by many. All waste receptacles were emptied daily. More picnic tables and rubbish containers were placed there because of the increased use of this beach. Also had to rope and buoy off bathing area for the safety of persons bathing because of speed boats and water skiers. Art.
61
40, 1959 was voted and accepted to build a hard top boat ramp. This work was completed so it could be used from July 4th through the rest of the summer. Many boats were put in the water daily from this ramp.
We wish to take this opportunity to thank the many per- sons, residents and non-residents, who have cooperated with us in making our parks and squares something we can all be proud of.
Respectfully submitted,
EVERETT T. RYDER, Chmn. ROBERT B. MEGATHLIN JOHN R. S. HANDREN Board of Park Commissioners
Report of the Director of Civil Defense
To the Honorable Board of Selectmen
And Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
I submit herewith the report of the Department of Civil Defense for the year 1959.
This year due to lack of funds the Sector Office located in South Dennis was closed. We no longer have the services of Capt. Williams who was the Sector Director. Capt. Williams through his office was a great help to this Department in organizing and training. We miss his valuable assistance.
We have completed the construction of a Control Center in the basement of the Harwich Elementary School. We now have an area from which to operate in time of emergency.
We are trying to maintain a corps of trained volunteers to run the control center. The need for more assistance is acute.
I wish to thank the Board of Selectmen for their co- operaton during the year and to Chris Marcotte and the members of the Auxiliary Police who gave their time to this very vital work.
Respectfully submitted,
GEORGE C. BALDWIN, Director
62
Report of the Inspector of Wires
The following inspections were made for additions to present wiring, three wire service to replace old two wire systems, off peak hot water meters, new homes and contrac- tors services, in the Town of Harwich for the year ending December 31, 1959.
Each new home requires two inspections, one roughing in and the final, which is the only one we count in our total. Besides these inspections, we go out on the jobs to advise as to locations of services and what is needed to comply with the code.
The majority of new homes erected this year have had 100 Amp. services installed and it is recommended by the inspector, that all future homes to be erected have a service of at least 100 ampere capacity.
Location
Inspections
Estimates
West Harwich
71
16,104
Harwichport
62
13,700
East Harwich
39
11,600
Harwich
32
8,000
South Harwich
26
5,500
Pleasant Lake
12
2,700
North Harwich
7
1,700
249
59,304
Respectfully submitted,
BRADFORD L. BARRETT Inspector of Wires
63
Report of the Board of Health
To the Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
There are no tubercular patients at Barnstable County Hospital from Harwich at the present time.
Five premature births were reported this year and finan- cial assistance was granted in two of these cases.
Another in the series of polio vaccine clinics was con- ducted under the supervision of Dr. F. L. Moore, County Health Officer and Adelyn Peabody, Town Nurse and several persons received polio shots.
One case of venereal disease was reported, one chicken pox, one rubella and two scarlet fever cases during 1959.
The operation of the Town Dump under the supervision of the Dump Custodian, James L. Smith has progressed and shows steady improvement.
The beach cleaning program instituted in 1958 was con- tinued in 1959. This program includes daily patrol of all the Town beaches under the jurisdiction of the Board of Health and a daily pick-up, by truck, of the various containers placed on the beaches. Daily pick-up of rubbish containers in the business areas is also included in this program during the summer season.
We still receive complaints from time to time in regard to careless transportation of refuse to the dump, and we urge all citizens to cooperate in keeping our road sides clear of unsightly trash.
We were saddened this year by the death of Ernest C. Eldredge, Jr., for many years Sanitary Inspector from the Barnstable County Health Dept. Mr. Eldredge was always most helpful to us and we shall miss him greatly.
The vacancy created by Mr. Eldredge's death was filled by the appointment of Edward H. Tateosian.
The following licenses and permits were issued for the year 1959:
Lodging House 57
Innholders 14
Cabins 9
64
Motels
8
Camps
1
Common Victuallers
28
Bakeries
4
Bowling Alleys
2
Massage & Physiotherapy
2
Permission to Manufacture Frozen Dessert 1
Rubbish & Garbage Collection 4
Cleaning Cesspools
5
Respectfully submitted,
MILTON H. WELT, Chairman ALTON E. WALKER EMULOUS E. HALL
Board of Health
Report of the Town Nurse
To The Honorable Selectmen
Harwich, Mass.
Gentlemen:
The following is my report for the year 1959.
Field Visits
1914
New Patients
84
Old Age Visits
98
Free Visits
123
Trips to Taunton State Hospital
2
Fees Collected $1,040.35
Miss ADELYN J. PEABODY, R.N. Mrs. GEORGIANA RIX, R.N .- Asst.
65
Report of Town Government Study Committee
To The Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
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