USA > Massachusetts > Barnstable County > Harwich > Town annual reports of the selectmen and overseers of the poor of the town of Harwich 1960 > Part 4
Note: The text from this book was generated using artificial intelligence so there may be some errors. The full pages can be found on Archive.org (link on the Part 1 page).
Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9 | Part 10 | Part 11 | Part 12 | Part 13
48
Water Construction A/C
Payments Balance to 1961
$9,631.11 386.99
Balance from 1959 $4,730.48
Transferred from Various Accounts 8,512.62
$13,243.10
Transferred to
Elinor Lane A/C 3,225.00
$10,018.10
$10,018.10
Respectfully submitted,
FRANCIS J. HIBBERT
NORMAN O. NICKERSON
ROBERT J. CHASE
Board of Water Commissioners
GEORGE GARDNER
Superintendent and Collector
49
Report of the Sealer of Weights and Measures
To The Honorable 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, 1960.
Total fees received, which have been turned in to the Town Treasurer
$111.15
Adjusted
Sealed
Not Sealed
Con- demned
Scales over 10,000 lbs.
1
Scales 100 to 5,000 lbs.
1
7
Scales or bal. under 100 lbs.
5 33
Weights
Metric
16
Apothecary
18
Meters, 1-in. or less
Gasoline
7
48
5
2
Meters, 1-in. or more
Vehicle tank
2
5
Bulk storage
1
Meters
Kero., Oil, Grease
13
Totals
15
142
5
2
Inspection of Seasonal Businesses as to Transient Vendor's
Licenses. 22 checked 4 licenses
Respectfully submitted, DONALD W. STROUT Sealer of Wts. & Measures
50
Report of the Veterans' Agent
To The Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
In writing this report of the activities of the Department for the year 1960, it is, indeed, very embarrassing to describe the true picture. First we were faced with a reduction in the budget which we requested of the Finance Committee. We salute them, and willingly cooperated with them in their wisdom, as they had in mind a tax rate reduction for the voters. However, had they recommended the budget we sug- gested, and not reduced it by $5,000.00 we still would not have been able to meet the unusual demands made upon us. We are administrating the Veterans Benefits program under the pro- visions of Chapter 115 of the General Laws. That entitles benefits for those in need - to the veteran, his wife, his chil- dren and his parents. It may be of interest to call attention to the fact that those 65 years of age and over, are increasing more rapidly than the rest of the population. In 1900 this group percentage wise was 4% of the population, but today they represent more than double that, 9%.
Of course, that brings the veterans of WW I into focus, for the average age of these veterans is now more than 65. That means this Department must be prepared to meet the addi- tional expense which is bound to occur as these old timers start to feel the weight of years bearing down on their tired shoulders.
This only partially explains why the present embarrassing situation confronts us, because some of the most expensive cases have not been from the veterans or their parents, but from their children. In the cases of aid to parents, we provide the necessary relief, and place a lien on any property in the name of the parents. Although we receive 50% reimbursement from the State in all cases, when the parents become an "es- tate" both the Town and the State receive full payment, provided there is sufficient equity.
The chief reason for the large amount in unpaid bills is the unusual number of hospital cases, and the length of hos- pitalization in many of the cases. In determining a safeguard in any future situation like the present, we have established a new policy in regard to admissions and approval of eligible
51
cases. With the cooperation of the administration of the Hospital and the representative of the Commissioner's office, we have reached an agreement whereby no cases will be billed to this Department in the future without written approval. Thus, the Hospital will have proper authorization, this De- partment will have the approval of the Commissioner, and bills will be received, honored and paid immediately upon presentation. There should be no delay in making payments to the hospital which has utilized its very efficient and life saving equipment, nor to the dedicated doctors who have used their skill in saving human life and relieving human suffer- ing. In addition to these written approvals, a copy will also be given to the Board of Selectmen that they too, may know that the patient is in the hospital, what the cause of the illness actually is, and give them the opportunity to use their author- ity to approve or suggest using the free bed fund.
As a result of the unhappy experience of 1960, we would respectfully suggest that the voters consider granting a larger sum to the Reserve Fund that it may be used for emergencies which has followed this Department throughout the year. It would also be available to prevent special Town meetings, which are both expensive and difficult to obtain with the necessary legal quorum.
We wish to express our deepest appreciation for the sym- pathetic support given us by the entire Board of Selectmen. As a result of their efforts and their resort to the use of the Gen- eral Laws with the approval of the Hon. Herman Dine, we have been able to complete the year on a deficit spending basis, which is both embarrassing and not good business.
To sum up the statistics, we have at the end of the year 19 active cases on our rolls, three hospital cases and we hold six liens on the property of six parents. May we hope for a world at peace in 1961 and may we never again have to call our youth into battle and deprive them of their most sacred privileges as an American - their right to Freedom, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.
Respectfully submitted,
HARRY B. ALBRO,
Director and Agent
52
Report of the Planning Board
To the Honorable Board of Selectmen and Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
The Planning Board has had an active year as shown by the number of larger sub-divisions requiring legal hearings. Larger sub-divisions have called for a greater number of abutters, and consequently have required more thought and consideration on the part of the Planning Board members as well as those immediately concerned.
Eleven advertised hearings have been reviewed and ap- proved. Forty-six applications for sub-division not requiring hearings have been signed for filing with the Registry of Deeds in Barnstable or the Land Court in Boston. This steady in- crease would indicate the awareness of property owners of the continued cooperation of the Board to improve the layout of land in every way possible for the citizens of the Town.
In December the Board sponsored an advertised hear ing on the proposed change of Commercial Areas in Easy Harwich and Harwich Center. This hearing was well attendea. By a show of hands, it was unanimous that certain changes were desirable, and these will appear in an article submitted for consideration at the Annual Town Meeting.
The Board has been represented at State and Cape Cod Planning Boards meetings, as well as all called meetings of the Board of Appeals.
Again we wish to express our appreciation of the cooper- ation extended by the Board of Selectmen, Board of Appeals, Building Inspector and various Surveyors and Engineers.
The following is a report of the Expenditures for the year:
Appropriation $200.00
Expenses:
Advertising sub-division hearings $22.13 Advertising hearing on proposed
change in Commercial Areas 26.79
53
Membership in State and Regional Planning Boards Postage and Telephone Filing Equipment
25.00
8.25
86.49
Total
$168.86
Unexpended balance to revenue
31.14
$200.00
Respectfully submitted, A. F. TROWBRIDGE, Chmn.
C. W. JOHNSON
ROSWELL H. NYE
DR. C. R. CROSBY
ESTHER A. STIDSTONE, Clerk
Harwich Planning Board
54
Report of the Conservation Commission
To The Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
May we again call your attention to the fact that the Conservation Commission was established in 1957, under Chapter 223 to promote the development of natural resources and to appropriate money therefore. Since that date other Acts and Amendments have been established relative to a con- servation program for cities and towns. Copies of these Acts and Amendments are available and may be had by an inter- ested adult who applies to the Commission.
Six meetings have been held during 1960, at 7:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month, at the Town Office Building. These meetings are open to the public and may be attended by residents of Harwich who are interested in any avenue of Con- servation.
A joint meeting of the Cape Cod Conservation Commis- sions, Barnstable, Eastham, Harwich and Sandwich was held at the home of Col. Crawford H. Hollidge. The various conser- vation activities as practised by the other towns were re- viewed. Since that time other Cape towns have joined the ranks and appointed Conservation Commissions. It was the concensus that joint meetings held at regular intervals would be helpful to the cause. Plans for an OPEN HOUSE PANEL DISCUSSION and FORUM were discussed. Harwich, being centrally located, volunteered to serve as host, inviting the group to arrange for a February meeting in Harwich Port.
Among the many valuable suggestions was for a weekly CON- SERVATION COLUMN to be instituted in the papers; the importance of a LAND INDEX and the setting aside of large tracts of wetlands and uplands for multiple use; scenic, breed- ing of waterfowl, shellfish and many others. The importance of maps, mounted, and with a plastic overlay was emphasized. It will be noted that our Aerial and Geodetic maps have been mounted and hung in the large hearing-room. It will be to the advantage of Harwich to pursue further the matter of
55
CONSERVATION ZONING and CONSERVATION COVEN- ANTS, with the OPEN SPACE CONCEPT, as recently adopted in Dover, Massachusetts.
Several of Massachusetts' leading Conservationists pre- sented their views at the Public Forum held in the Parish House, Pilgrim Congregational Church, on February 18th, when more than one hundred were present from all sections of the Cape, as was ascertained from the registration. Re- freshments were served by the Harwich group.
The Commission made a formal protest to the Barnstable Board of County Commissioners against the relocation of Route 124, as planned by the State, at Seymours Pond. A full attendance was urged for the hearing held on August 4th.
Because of the many worthy projects awaiting action, the Commission voted, early in June, to establish a Conservation Council. A number of individuals were invited to serve. No limit has been set on the size, interests or organization of the Council. Interest and understanding of the many facets of conservation, together with a willingness to cooperate in plan- ning a constructive program, will insure membership. One of our serious needs is for a liason between the schools and the Commission. One who will work to promote a CONSERVATION ASSEMBLY: ANNUAL CONSERVATION DAY: CONSERVA- TION EXHIBIT at both library and schools and so forth. The Conservation Council has met twice, the second meeting with Mr. Walter Cahoon, relative to the trees.
The Conservation Commission is sponsoring an article in the Warrant, which we consider most important and which should be accepted and adopted: "REMOVAL OF SOIL, SAND, AND GRAVEL AND SAND PITS." Also an article requesting the sum of $250.00 for miscellaneous expenses. Current ex- penses have covered the purchase of a filing-cabinet, official printed stationary, maps mounted, postage and sundries.
An important part of today's city and town planning is the consideration of the place for "beauty" in our pattern of living. More people want more green spaces, more natural areas. Beauty is the protest against disorder, dirt and decay. ยท Ugliness promotes disorder; disorder promotes decay, and decay winds up in a slum-ridden area. Beautify older areas and people will lift their hearts and heads. "What we need is
56
awareness; deep concern by the well-informed; local govern- mental structures set for ACTION. But above all we need leadership. "Conserve stretches of water and wide open spaces; they satisfy a profound need."
Respectfully submitted,
FRANCIS J. HIBBERT, Chairman ESTHER STIDSTONE C. W. JOHNSON DONALD T. BATES
EVERETT RYDER MRS. ARTHUR W. THIVIERGE, SR. ALICE V. CHAMPION MORRIS, Secy. Harwich Conservation Commission
Report of the Park Department
To The Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
The year 1960 proved another busy one for the Park Com- missioners. The fourteen squares, the parking lot in Harwich- port, Brooks park and the public beach at the east end of Long Pond received regular careful attention necessary to maintain and preserve the natural beauty of this town property. We wished to expand these activities to an even greater degree but the approved budget did not permit such expansion.
In October this department received an emergency grant for $100 for use in repairing damage suffered by the town parks and property under the supervision of this department due to hurricane "Donna." This brought the total amount ex- pended by this department for the year 1960 to $7,850.00.
In view of the constant rise in cost of material, supplies, equipment and general maintenance, it is hoped that the request of this department for an increase in its budget for 1961 will be approved.
Respectfully submitted,
EVERETT T. RYDER, Chmn. WILLIAM D. BUCKLEY JOHN R. S. HANDREN Board of Park Commissioners
57
Annual Report of the Playground and Recreation Commission
In presenting the eleventh successive summation of events to the townspeople of Harwich, the Playground and Recreation Commission is pleased to report that positive steps have been taken in developing a well rounded successive rec- reation program.
To keep pace with the increased attendance in the Sum- mer Athletic Program, an assistant to the Director was en- gaged. Thus we were able to divide the youngsters into two groups for the morning field sports and provide a much needed assistant in the aquatic sports at Sand Pond. The Swimming Program showed an increase over 1959, with 92 Beginners; 23 Intermediates; 13 Swimmers, and 13 Life sav- ers registered. The Wednesday morning 'get-together', which included 'cook-outs' and water melon hunts, was greatly enjoyed by the youngsters. This activity was particularly popular as it permitted varied age groups to participate and contribute their talents.
At the Sand Pond Area many improvements were made during this past year. To complete the service building, which was donated to the Commission, a concrete foundation and floor were built on the ground level to house the boats and other waterfront equipment. A spruce floor, replacement windows, and an entrance have also been installed at the parking area level. In the near future it will be necessary to paint the exterior of the building.
Of paramount importance was the installation of a pay telephone booth to provide a means of communication with the Fire and Police Departments, as well as adding to the convenience of those using the beach facilities. In order to triple the beach area many tons of sand and fill were rolled in and graded to a gently sloping bottom. A new floating dock has been constructed of styrofoam logs and plywood. This 'T type' design has provided a safe, protected crib for be- ginners. The Commission is always concerned with the safe- ty of all participants in its program, and with this in mind purchased a second boat-not only for emergency needs but
58
to teach advanced swimmers the proper use and handling of water craft. The next immediate need is for a raft exten- sion with diving boards. The previous car congestion has been somewhat relieved due to enlarging the parking facili- ties. The surrounding woods area has been entirely freed of underbrush.
Work on the Multi-Purpose Field has been delayed un- til such time as the roads have been laid in the Civic Center Area.
The Recreation Building continues to be used for a wide range of activities, with 13,254 individuals using the facili- ties. New equipment added includes a ping pong table with accessories; six vinyl covered flush door table tops and twelve horses built by the custodian. Since the exterior has not been decorated for a number of years, the building is now in need of a major paint job.
The importance of recreation as a factor in American living today cannot be minimized. It is a doubly important factor on the Cape where the life blood of the economy is the summer visitor. The members of the Playground and Recreation Commission in all their thinking have tried to consider not only the present needs but orderly, progressive development for the future. We are most grateful to those townspeople and officials who have given of their time and suggestions.
FORREST A. EATON, Chairman ALICE C. MORRIS, Secretary VIRGINIA S. DOANE, Treasurer EARLE F. BASSETT WILLIAM L. CHANDLER
59
Report of the Board of Health
We hereby submit our annual report to the Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
The following cases of contagious diseases were reported to the Board of Health in the year 1960.
Measles 14, Venereal diseases 1, Myelo-Encephalitis (viral) 1, Pertussis 1, and Menengitis 1.
We also had five cases of premature births reported, but fortunately there was no expense to the Town in any of these cases.
We received and investigated the following complaints:
Accumulation of offensive Garbage 3
Cesspools continually overflowing
3
Disposing of Shells 4
Dog bites
3
Dead Sharks, (buried)
2
Flies and mosquitos
3
Health Menaces
8
Water Analysis 3
The board issued the following licenses and permits: Lodging-house 48, Innholders 12, Cabins and Motels 19, Com- mon Victuallers 32 (suspended 1), Bakeries 3, Bowling Alleys 16, Massage and Physiotheropy 2, permit to manufacture frozen dessert 1, Rubbish and Garbage Collections 3, and Cleaning Cesspools 3.
We wish to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Fred L. Moore, and his assistant Edward H. Tateasian for their ever willing help and cooperation this past year. It has been a pleasure working with them.
Respectfully submitted,
DOUGLAS ROCKWOOD ALLEN E. WALKER EMULOUS E. HALL
Board of Health
60
Report of the Barnstable County Health Department
To The Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
During the year, a fourth dose of poliomyelitis vaccine was offered to all children in the schools of this county. A survey of the immunization status of children in the schools indicates that a very high proportion of them have received the recommended number of doses of vaccine. We also have found that children entering school in the kindergarten and first grades this year, had for the most part received the necessary immunizations prior to entering school. No cases of poliomyelitis were reported during the year.
There has been no great change in the routine work of the Department during the year.
The staff has been increased by the addition of another sanitary inspector. The position has been filled by the ap- pointment of Mr. Richard Sturtevant of South Wellfleet. After serving as sanitary inspector for a period of thirty-four years, Mr. George Crocker will retire on January 1, 1961.
Staff of the Department as of December 31, 1960:
Fred L. Moore, M.D., C.M., M.P.H., Co. Health Officer Mary Susich, R.N., B.S., M.P.H., Nursing Educational Dir. Anne P. Halliday, M.S.S., Psychiatric Social Worker Alice A. Dalzell, Dental Hygienist
George F. Crocker, Jr., R.S., Sanitary Inspector Edward H. Tateosian, B.S., Sanitary Inspector Richard M. Sturtevant, M.Sc., Sanitary Inspector Ruth V. Crocker, Principal Clerk
Edwina Wheeler, Junior Clerk and Stenographer
Lucy E. Haeselich, R.N., Veneral Disease Epidemiologist (Half Time)
Alice M. Fleming, M.D., Child Psychiatrist (Part Time) Gershen Rosenblum, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist (Part Time)
61
Statistical Summary
Administrative:
Miles Traveled
59,478
Individuals Interviewed
3,009
Meetings Attended
253
Lectures, etc.
53
Attendance at Lectures
2,422
Communicable Disease Control:
Visits to Cases
141
Consultation with Physicians
19
Smallpox Vaccinations
106
Diphtheria Immunizations
428
Whooping Cough Immunizations
284
Tetanus Immunizations
428
Poliomyelitis Immunizations
8,746
Tuberculin Tests
2,050
Child Hygiene:
Visits to Clinics (Infants)
79
Visits to Clinics (Preschool)
107
Visits to Clinics (Crippled Children)
374
Visits to Clinics (Mental Hygiene)
400
School Children Examined (Medical)
408
School Children Examined (Dental)
2,288
Children Given Fluorine Prophylaxis
571
Total Fluorine Treatments
695
Social Service Visits
838
Sanitary Inspections:
Water Supplies
191
Sewage Disposal
205
Swimming Pools
101
Food Handling Establishments
1,727
Dairy Farms
26
Pasteurizing Plants
51
Miscellaneous
7
Laboratory Specimens Examined:
Water Supplies
218
Milk (Bacteriological)
169
Milks (Fats and Solids)
255
Cream
41
Coliform Tests
447
Food Handling Utensils
1,353
Swimming Pools
75
62
Cases of Reported Diseases:
Chicken Pox
125
Dog Bite
182
German Measles
12
Measles
263
Meningitis
2
Mumps
27
Scarlet Fever
11
Tuberculosis
5
Infectious Hepatitis
4
Respectfully submitted, F. L. MOORE, M.D., C.M., M.P.H. County Health Officer Agent Board of Health Town of Harwich
Report of the Town Nurse
To The Honorable Selectmen
Harwich, Mass.
Gentlemen:
The following is my report for the year 1960.
Field Visits 1817
New Patients
56
Old Age Visits
51
Free Visits 49
Fees Collected
$863.50
Respectfully submitted,
Mrs. GEORGIANA RIX, R.N.
63
Report of Town Government Study Committee
To The Citizens of the Town of Harwich:
The Harwich Town Government Study Committee here- with submits its annual report for the year 1960.
This year, your committee embarked on a project much broader in scope than any attempted previously - the study of our Town Government as a whole. This study, which is only partly completed, is an endeavor to relate the various func- tions of town government to one another and to the whole.
The organization of our Town, governmentally speaking, can be likened to "Topsy" - it just grew. Much in the way of duties, responsibilities and areas of concern to various func- tions of government seem to be ruled by tradition as much as by statute. The duties and functions of many are spelled out, at best, in a very vague and nebulous way. Some committees legally are still in existence, even though their purpose has long been fulfilled.
The first problem facing your Town Government Study Committee was to outline an organization chart, showing, if possible, lines of responsibility and communication. Just take this copy of your Town Report, list the many and varied de- partments, officers and committees, and you will get some idea as to the complexity of Town Government.
Once a listing of the various functions had been outlined it became obvious that study of each department, official and committee was necessary before even the most elementary organizational chart could be drawn. The committee cur- rently is in process of making these studies.
In the individual studies, first the legal or statute areas are investigated; then the study turns to a phase which seems to be equally important - the historic or traditional aspects, which color and modify almost every area of our Town Gov- ernment. From these, the accepted lines of responsibility and communications are drawn.
Your committee feels sure that once this study is com- pleted and analyzed, it will reveal a wealth of information and data which, we hope, will make for more efficient and more effective government for the Town of Harwich.
64
The Town Government Study Committee would like to take this opportunity to invite any citizen to attend their meetings, which are scheduled for the first and third Thurs- day of each month, at 8:00 p.m. in the Town office building.
Respectfully submitted,
G. W. STIDSTONE, Chairman PHILIP C. HAMMOND DR. EMANUEL EAGLE J. ALDEN ELLIS C. BURLEIGH ELDREDGE GEORGE N. VAGENAS
Report of the Board of Registrars
To the Honorable Board of Selectmen and the Citizens of Harwich.
The Board of Registrars of Harwich submit their re- port for the year 1960.
This has been a busy year for your Board of Registrars, being Presidential Election year.
Our Voting Lists have been revised and reprinted.
The total number of registered voters on December 31st, 1960 is as follows: Women, 1,478; Men, 1,179, making a total . of 2,657.
We wish to thank all the Personnel in the Town Office and Townspeople for their help and courtesy to us this year.
Respectfully submitted, M. KATHLEEN WIXON, Chairman HELENA T. MAGUIRE JOSEPH V. GAVIN
65
Fire Department and Forest Warden's Report
To the Honorable Board of Selectmen
and to the Citizens of Harwich:
I hereby respectfully submit the annual report of the Fire Department and Forest Warden's Department for the year 1960.
Personnel
Years
Rank
Name
Address
Service
Chief
Charles A .Hall
West Harwich
14
Dep. Chief (Fire)
Fred T. Young Jr.
Harwich Port
31
Dep. Chief (Rescue)
Sheldon Thayer Sr.
South Harwich
13
Captain
Brenton I. Wixon
Harwich Center 13
Captain
Richard E. Johnson
West Harwich
6
Chaplain
Rev. Edward Elliott
Harwich Center
1
Ladder #1
Lieutenant
Samuel J. Arsenault
Harwich Port 11
Ladderman
Eugene Winston
Harwich Port
20
Ladderman
Roger Bailey
Need help finding more records? Try our genealogical records directory which has more than 1 million sources to help you more easily locate the available records.