FAQs
Board of Assessors FAQs
- FAQ August 23
- Real Estate Tax Exemptions
- What is Personal Property Tax?
- Household furnishings and effects at the person’s domicile;
- Wearing apparel;
- Motor vehicles, trailers, and boats subject to the Excise Tax;
- Farming utensils (hand tools; simple, inexpensive farm equipment such as manure spreaders are specifically noted here)
- Tools of trade of a mechanic (also includes instruments of a plumber, carpenter, or other tradesman)
- Merchandise and stock in trade. Goods and wares for sale, whether in a store or any other place for sale, on consignment, or in storage or a warehouse;
- Business and professional office furnishings, fixtures, and equipment; computers and other office equipment if used in a business; medical and dental office equipment; professional libraries;
- Animals ( any creature that might reside in a barn, coop, pen or paddock is taxable);
- Farm machinery (unless exempted above);
- Unregistered motor vehicles & trailers (includes tractors, snowmobiles, golf carts and all other unregistered vehicles);
- Household furnishings not situated in the owner’s primary residence, i.e. furnishings of second homes. (Please file Form 2HF.)
The following is a summary of the various real estate exemption programs and the basic qualification requirements.
| Clause | Description | Amount of Abatement |
| 17D | 70 years or older, or surviving spouse, and occupied domicile for 5 years with moderate financial means. | $175 |
| 41C | 65 years or older as of July 1, and occupied domicile for 5 years with limited financial means. | $1,000 |
| 22 | Veterans with war connected disability | $400 |
| 22E | Veterans 100% disabled | $1,000 |
| 37 | A blind person | $500.00 |
| 18 | Person unable to pay taxes due to age, infirmity and poverty | variable |
The above provides very basic qualification requirements. For more detailed information and to obtain the necessary applications, please contact the Board of Assessors.
The personal property tax is a relict of the colonial era, when the number of goats, swine, and neat cattle owned was a valid measure of a person’s wealth. Today it is often a source of confusion and resentment. However, the law is still on the books, and the Assessors are required to collect property data and bill for qualified property.
Determining what property is subject to the personal property tax is confusing. The Massachusetts Department of Revenue defines personal property as "...goods, material objects and other things capable of ownership, which are not so firmly attached to, or specially designed for, real estate as to become part of the real estate ..."
However, there are numerous exemptions to the tax. The most significant are:
So what’s left? Typical items Leverett taxpayers need to report are:
Personal property subject to taxation must be reported to the assessors on State Tax Form 2, known as the Form of List. In recent years, the Assessors have included a Form of List with every copy of the February Newsletter. Last year 89 forms were returned, 81 of which were marked "same as last year" or "none." To reduce this waste of paper and time, we are not sending a form to all households, but instead are mailing them to taxpayers who have been subject to the tax in past years, or we believe might have taxable property. Any taxpayer who believes (s)he is subject to the tax and does not receive a Form 1 should contact the Assessors office for a copy.
548-4945
Building Permit Guidelines
Franklin County Cooperative Inspection Program - FRCOGFRCOG
https://frcog.org/program-services/franklin-county-cooperative-inspection-program/
The Franklin County Cooperative Inspection Program (FCCIP) is a cooperative inspection program set up in 1975 to enable small towns to collaborate and share inspection and zoning responsibilities. The intent was to provide a full-time staff that may better serve towns than part-time inspectors.
Building Permits and Information
- Building in Leverett Checklist
- It is registered at the Registry of Deeds; you are not subdividing an existing lot.
- It is on a public way or an approved subdivision road.
- It matches the dimensional standards of the Zoning Bylaws for the Zoning District in which it is located.
- You wish to build a structure, which is permitted by the Zoning Bylaw for your Zoning District.
- For soil analysis, perc test, and sewage disposal system design:
Board of Health (548-1022 x1) - For certification of potable water:
Board of Health (548-1022 x1) - For driveway permit:
Highway Superintendent (548-9400) - For smoke detector approval:
Fire Chief (548-9225) - For Order of Conditions if wetlands are involved:
Contact the Conservation Commission.
Conservation Commission (548-1022x3) sign-off is required prior to Board of Health sign-off on Building Permit application. - For scenic roads permit if tree cutting or stonewall alteration along road is involved:
Planning Board (548-9477) - Franklin County Cooperative Building Inspector Program
Courthouse
425 Main Street
Greenfield, Ma. 01301
I. SO YOU WANT TO BUILD OR MAKE CHANGES TO YOUR EXISTING HOME IN LEVERETT
Save yourself time, money and frustration.
State and/or Town regulations and bylaws require building permits for construction or adding on to any kind of building, installing or repairing a septic system, creating new lots, constructing a well and cutting trees or altering a stone wall along any road.
| Before you: | Get approval from: |
| Build a new structure, Add on to an existing structure, Install Chimney, Fire Place, Replacement Windows, New Roof or Siding |
Franklin County Building Inspector 772-2026 772-2027 |
| Install, repair, replace, or expand a sewage disposal system; drill or dig a well |
Board of Health 548-1022 x1 |
| Divide up lots along an existing road or subdivide land by creating new roads |
Planning Board 548-9477 |
| Cut a tree or alter a stone wall along any road (except Route 63) |
Planning Board 548-9477 |
| Build a driveway | Highway Superintendent 548-9400 |
| Do any work near a wetland, swamp, brook, lake, marsh, or vernal pool | Conservation 548-1022 x3 |
II. BUILDING ON AN APPROVED LOT
Your lot is approved if:
III. YOU CANNOT BEGIN CONSTRUCTION WITHOUT A PERMIT
1. To obtain Building Permit application call the Franklin County Building Inspector, Greenfield (772-2026) or go to www.fccip.org
2. Seek appropriate approvals:
3. Finalize application and submit to:
4. Building Inspector renders a decision.
a. If approved:
Building permit will be sent to the Town Hall where it may be obtained upon payment of the required fee during regular Town hall hours.
b. If denied:
Correct the problems or appeal to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Burn Permits
- Online Burning Permit App
- You may only burn BRUSH! All other materials are illegal. No leaves, grass, hay, stumps, building debris or any other materials are allowed to be burned.
- All open burning must be a minimum of 75 feet from buildings or structures.
- Burning will be allowed to start at 10:00am and must be extinguished by 4pm.
- Any open fire must be attended at all times by the permit holder.
- No person shall set, maintain or increase a fire in open air at any time except by permission.
- You must be 18 years or older to apply for permit and/or set, maintain or increase fire once permission has been granted by the Fire Department.
- You must have an appropriate means to extinguish an open air fire completely at the end of the day or if requested by the Fire Department.
- The Fire Department can refuse or cancel a permit at any time. (Example: Violation of permit regulations, or change in weather conditions.)
- Open burning season is January 15 - May 1.
- Massachusetts Regulation 310 CMR: DEP 7.07 "Open Burning"
- More information from the Massachusetts DEP.
Online Application for Open Burning Permits
Franklin County, Massachusetts
Introduction
Massachusetts allows residents to burn brush between January 15 and May 1, depending on weather conditions. You must obtain permission from the town or fire district in which you plan to burn brush. Many towns in Franklin County offer burning permits through this system. The permits are free of charge, but availability depends on weather conditions.
Please read the information below, then click here to apply for a permit.
Regulations
How to obtain a permit
For most towns in Franklin County
Obtain a permit online using this system. Permits are available during the burning season, subject to weather conditions.
You must have internet access and a valid email address to use this system.
Code of Town of Leverett
LeverettNet FAQ
- FAQ August 23
- FAQ August 23
FAQ Questions & Answers
Updated August 2023
FOR SERVICE PROBLEMS OR QUESTIONS:
Contact the ISP: 413-420-7028, option 2 for technical support
Email: customerservice@sheld.org
Contact the LMLP: lmlp@leverett.ma.us
Protect your fiber connection: In order to avoid expensive repairs to the fiber-optic
cable that brings LeverettNet telephone and Internet services to the premise, remember
it is the property owner’s responsibility to avoid damage to the fiber and the Optical
Network Terminal (ONT). The Leverett Municipal Light Plant (LMLP), in accordance
with general utility company practice, holds homeowners responsible for costs to
repair fiber broken or damaged by homeowner or homeowner-contracted
activities, including digging, moving, tampering with, or otherwise interfering with
the fiber cable or ONT.
NOTE: Conventional methods of identifying underground utility lines before digging—
such as Dig-Safe flagging—are not effective with underground fiber-optic cable because
the metal detectors they use cannot detect glass. If you plan on digging, contact the
LMLP at 413-548-9699 to get a copy of the conduit plan for your location.
Reminder Do Not Move the ONT: To protect the fiber cable from being broken please
arrange to have one of the local electricians move the ONT if needed due to siding,
painting, or other work. The MLP has decided to cover the cost of the two electrician
visits needed to remove and replace an ONT if we are notified before the work is begun
with enough time to set up an electrician. To arrange for an electrician, please call the
LMLP at 413-548-9699.
Frequently Asked Questions
The FAQ is organized in sections.
General – what is LeverettNet, etc.
Services – phone, email, new service, etc.
Technical – UPS, ONT, routers, security, fiber path, etc.
Glossary – what the acronyms mean
General
What is Leverettnet.net? LeverettNet.net is the domain name of the fiber-optic
broadband network serving residents and businesses in the Town of Leverett,
Massachusetts. Email addresses provided by the ISP are in the leverettnet.net domain.
What is LMLP? Leverett Municipal Light Plant, the custodian of LeverettNet.
Who owns the network? The Town of Leverett owns the network.
Services
What services are available over LeverettNet?
Internet service with 1Gps (one gigabit per second) symmetrical (upload and download)
access to the “middle-mile,” with no data cap.
Telephone service with unlimited calling to 50 states plus Extended domestic; calls
outside the 48 states billed at published International rates; call waiting; caller ID; caller
name ID; voicemail; call forwarding; call forwarding busy, do not answer, and fixed;
enhanced call forwarding do not answer; caller ID blocking and unblocking; message
waiting indication (stutter tone); 411 directory service. These services may be
subscribed to separately or as a bundle.
Can I make international calls?
Yes. But, in an effort to protect you from expensive international toll fraud, international
calling is initially automatically blocked from your phone as a safeguard. Lifting this
block is easy and effective. If you would like to unblock International Calling, please
contact SHELD at 413-420-7028.
What email options exist on LeverettNet?
Email accounts (POP and IMAP), up to 5 per Subscriber, at 5GB minimum storage per
account, with the domain name leverettnet.net are included with Internet service
subscriptions. Other email accounts (gmail, yahoo, etc. . . .) can be used separately or
forwarded to a leverettnet address (or vice versa).
What television options exist on LeverettNet?
LeverettNet does not offer separate television service (often referred to as cable), but
does provide access to television and video streaming services over the Internet
(sometimes referred to as video “over the top”).
Video streaming services include Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Amazon Video, Vudu, YouTube,
Sling TV, and many others. Some satellite television providers—like Dish TV and
Directtv—also provide access via an Internet connection, without needing a satellite
dish. ‘Smart’ TVs and stand-alone streaming media hardware devices—for example,
Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, Fire TV Stick, etc.—allow television sets to connect to
“over-the-top” content.
How do I subscribe for services or call for customer support?
Contact the ISP: https://wwww.sheld.org/fibersping; phone: 413-420-7028.
How do I get service at a new house or location?
A new home connection to LeverettNet requires a fiber-optic drop line from the network
distribution line at a roadside utility pole to an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) on the
house. Unless the homeowner provides a passable buried conduit (minimum size 1¼”),
the drop line will be aerial. The ONT is powered by an Uninterruptible Power Supply
(UPS) connected to the house electric system. The drop line and associated equipment
remain the property of the Town.
The LMLP has contracted with Collins Electric to install new connections, as follows:
Generic Scope of work:
* Up to 500′ aerial or in passable conduit minimum size 1¼”
* One 2-fiber cable drop from distribution pole closure to house
* One Calix 711GE ONT at approved owner location
* One UPS and 7-conductor line to ONT
* Splicing one pigtail SC/APC at customer location
Estimated Base Price: $2,400.00.
Notes:
* Collins will track installation time and the actual cost may be lower or higher.
* Collins will provide a specific cost estimate, for a fee of $150.
* Homeowner must provide 120-volt outlet for UPS.
* Homeowner is responsible for interior network wiring (Ethernet, router, etc.).
To initiate the process for a new connection to LeverettNet, contact Margie McGinnis at
lmlp@leverett.ma.us or 413-548-9699 for further information.
Can I subscribe to more than one LeverettNet account?
The ONT has two Ethernet ports and two telephone ports, where the homeowner’s
cable(s) connect to inside wiring. Each port can be provisioned by the ISP to carry a
separate Internet or telephone account. Arrangements for additional LeverettNet
accounts can be made directly with the ISP. It is also possible to arrange with the ISP to
install an ONT with more than two ports for even more accounts.
May I resell the use of my LeverettNet connection?
The Leverett Municipal Light Plant as a matter of policy forbids resale of a LeverettNet
connection. Anyone seeking a commercial arrangement for LeverettNet usage should
contact the LMLP, which will review requests and, if approved, establish terms that
ensure network build, maintenance, and operating costs are shared appropriately.
Where do I report a problem like a tree on a fiber cable?
If you know of a tree that looks like a danger to the wires along the street, please
let the MLP know by emailing the tree location (nearest house address) and the
numbers on the nearest pole with a description of the problem to
lmlp@leverett.ma.us.
For emergencies, contact the ISP at phone 413-420-7028.
Technical
What do the indicator lights mean on the UPS?
? System Status: Green = normal operation
? DC: Green = battery is supplying power (see diagram below for alarm details)
? Mute: Orange = alarm muted (see diagram below for muting instructions)
? Replace Battery: Red = battery replacement required
Uninterruptible power supply indicator lights.
When to replace the battery in the UPS?
The indicator lights on the UPS, shown above, include battery status information. When
the battery is at 45% capacity, the DC status light will begin to flash and the unit will
begin to beep four times per minute. When the battery is depleted, the REPLACE
BATTERY light will turn red. The typical life of the battery used in the UPS is around 4
years. We recommend replacing the battery before then to ensure reliability. The
subscriber may replace the battery directly (see below) or contact an electrician. The
following local electrician is certified by LeverettNet to work on ONT and UPS issues:
Lee Edelberg [H. 413-549-8963; M. 413-522-0356].
How to replace the UPS battery myself?
The battery is hot-swappable. You may replace it while the UPS is connected to the
ONT. See diagram below for details.
The UPS battery charges when it is connected to utility power. The battery charges fully
during the first 24 hours of normal operation. Do not expect full battery run capability
during this initial charge period. The typical life of the battery used in the ONT UPS is
around 4 years. We recommend replacing a 4-year old battery to ensure best
reliability. We also recommend putting a tag on the battery or the UPS giving the date
when the battery was replaced.
What battery to use for replacement?
The battery that is supplied in the CyberPower UPS power supply is a sealed,
maintenance-free, lead acid battery rated 12Vdc and 7.2 amp-hour, and having 1/4″
terminals (called T2 or F2 style). It should be replaced with a substantially identical
battery, having the same style terminals. 12V 7Ah would be appropriate if 7.2Ah cannot
be found.
CyberPower, the manufacturer of the UPS that is used with the ONTs in Leverett has
stated, “The unit requires use of SLA 12V/7.2Ah, part# RB1270.” Technical data
available at https://www.cyberpowersystems.com/product/fttx/csn27u12v/
We recommend having the replacement done by one of the Town electricians (see
“when to replace,” above). If you are certain you can find and install an appropriate
replacement, that is permissible, but you then take responsibility for the correct
functioning of the unit. DO NOT substitute batteries of other chemistries (e.g., lithium,
nickel-cadmium, etc.) or of a different physical size (8Ah batteries, for example are too
large). Using an incorrect battery may cause damage or risk of energy hazard. The
old battery you replace can be deposited with an attendant at the Leverett Transfer
Station for proper disposal.
What inside premises wiring is needed for Internet connections?
Fiber-to-the-home premises equipment and wiring.
The ONT converts signals carried as pulses of light on the optical fiber into electrical
signals carried over low voltage twisted pair wire copper wiring referred to as “Ethernet”
wiring. Ethernet carries the electrical signals from a port on the ONT to the subscriber’s
equipment, typically a router. For network administration and security reasons, you
should not connect a computer directly to the ONT, unless you are requested to do
so by a service technician. The data rate of the signals to and from the ONT is one
gigabit per second (that is, one thousand million bits transferred over the wire per
second), often abbreviated as 1gbs. Categories of ethernet wire suitable for that data
rate are Cat 5 and higher. Cat 5e is normally considered entirely suitable for all but the
longest and most interference-prone installations. A typical residential network will
connect computers, printers, and other devices via wired jacks or wirelessly. In either
instance, a router will be connected by Ethernet wire to an Ethernet port in the ONT
(behind the outer weatherproof door) and will serve the inside network via wireless or a
mix of wireless and wired connections. Ethernet wiring can be installed by electricians,
but may also be installed by others having appropriate skills. It is not highly complex to
install. The most critical factors are that the cable must not be allowed to kink or be
secured so tightly that it is crushed.
What inside premises wiring is needed for telephone connections?
The ONT provides connection ports for telephone as well as for Ethernet. The jack on
your existing telephone wiring will unplug from the telephone company service box and
plug directly into a telephone port in the ONT (behind the outer weatherproof door). If
you install new telephone wiring from the ONT to connect to existing telephone wiring
inside your house, the following diagram shows the most common situation. In the event
you end up with spare wires, cut the ends cleanly and wrap them back around the wire
casing.
Telephone wire pairing
Do I need a modem in addition to a router?
No, you do not need a modem. The ONT serves the same purpose as a modem.
What is the procedure to replace my router?
If you replace an existing router with a new router, call SHELD Customer Service at
413-420-7028 to discuss it with them and minimize your Internet down time. They can
clear the old router information from the ONT and provide an Internet address for the
new router. This process will be quicker during regular business hours: 8:30 am – 4:30
pm Monday – Friday.
After you speak with SHELD, you can follow these Do-It-Yourself steps to reset the
ONT yourself by powering down/up the UPS/battery back-up inside your house. Here
are the steps:
1. Power down and disconnect the old router.
2. Locate the UPS/battery back-up that supplies power to the ONT. Disconnect AC
power, remove the battery cover and disconnect the negative battery lead.
3. Wait 30 seconds.
4. Reconnect the negative battery lead, replace the battery cover, and reconnect
AC power.
5. Connect and power up the new router.
What about network security?
A number of mechanisms are built into the LeverettNet network nodes and ONTs to
enhance network security. Security features configured on the Leverettnet network include,
but are not limited to, MAC forced forwarding, Multicast Filtering, IP DHCP Option82, IGMP
snooping, IP Source Verify and limited scope VLANS. The Network Operator has deployed
these features globally across the network. Additionally, the network has the ability to
prioritize certain types of traffic over others. For example – telephone takes priority over
Internet.
For home networks: The short answer is “Read the instructions that come with your router!”
There are many variations of routers with different methods for managing security. Some
are able to provide more security and are easier to set up than others. The key security
feature for any router is that it have password-controlled access to the home network. It is
important to change the password for the router’s “admin” or “manager” account
from its factory default as soon as the router is installed. Information about how to set
both passwords will be found when you read the instructions that come with the router.
What affects network speed?
LeverettNet provides access to a gigabit speed to the Internet. Some factors can inhibit
access to this speed, including:
? the network interface card on a subscriber device (1000BASE-T = gigabit capable)
? other components of subscriber devices (chipsets, motherboards, operating
systems, applications, etc.)
? rating on the Ethernet cable (Cat5e = gigabit capable)
? simultaneously running bandwidth-intensive applications (e.g., video takes priority
over other data)
? delay in LeverettNet and/or the Internet beyond LeverettNet and/or websites, due to
traffic congestion, rerouting, etc.
? older wireless access point and/or wireless network adapter (protocol earlier than
802.11n)
Notes: *wireless is inherently slower than wired; optimize wireless by locating the access
point closer to devices with few barriers; use different frequencies from cordless phones;
etc. Websites, even speed test websites, do not necessarily run at 1Gig
How to locate the path of buried fiber on my property?
A survey plan for the aerial or underground path of a fiber “drop” to a subscriber location is
completed prior to the installation. This plan shows the approximate path to be taken and
provides a good reference to use when searching for the conduit. This plan is on file with
the LMLP in Town Hall. Contact the LMLP to see a copy of the plan for your location.
NOTE: The actual path of the cable is subject to conditions discovered in the course
of the trenching work and for this reason may be found far from the path shown by
the plan. Underground drops are enclosed in an orange-colored conduit, buried
approximately five to twelve inches below the surface. The best practice for digging
anywhere between the roadway and the house ONT installation is to dig by hand for the first
twelve inches of depth. The homeowner is responsible for costs to repair fiber broken or
damaged by digging or other interference.
Glossary
Active Ethernet (AE): An Active Ethernet network provides each subscriber with their
own fiber link to the network node switch, which links the local network to the Internet. In
comparison, a GPON network uses passive optical splitters to connect up to 32
subscribers to a single fiber link to the network node. AE makes higher bandwidth
possible by the direct link from the switch to the subscriber. LeverettNet employs AE.
Ethernet: A system for connecting computer systems, with protocols to control the
passing of information and to avoid simultaneous transmission by two or more systems.
For more information about Ethernet wiring in your home, see the Technical
Section above.
Fiber-Optic: Optical fiber is a strand of glass about as thin as a human hair that
transmits light pulses carrying digital information. The light pulses are generated,
received, and converted from/to electrical signals by electronic equipment at each end
of the fiber, to form a communications network. Fibers are grouped in bundles in cables
throughout the network. Optical fiber is less expensive and lighter weight than copper
wires and can transmit more data with less power and signal degradation over longer
distances. Optical fiber is electrically non-conductive and not subject to electromagnetic
interference and does not emit any electromagnetic radiation.
FTTx (Fiber-to-the-x): Fiber to the x (FTTX) is a generic term for any broadband
network architecture using optical fiber to provide all or part of a last mile
telecommunications system. Fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) refers to fiber optic cable
connections to individual residences; also known as Fiber-to-the-premise (FTTP);
LeverettNet deploys this architecture. Fiber-to-the-curb (FTTC) refers to fiber optic cable
extended along a street or road, passing individual premises. Typically with FTTC the
homeowner must pay the cost of installing the needed fiber between their house and
the road.
Gigabit (Gb): A Gigabit of Internet bandwidth is 1,000 Megabits (Mb). A Gigabit network
can provide data transfer rates of one gigabit per second (Gbps) over fiber. Most enduser
devices process data at slower speeds than fiber.
NOTE: Gigabit as a measure of bandwidth is not to be confused with Gigabit as a
measure of data. Bandwidth (what engineers call bitrate) refers to data transfer
rates: how fast information can move between devices. A Gigabit of data, in contrast, is
a measurement of quantity: one billion bits of data. It takes eight bits (referred to as a
byte) to store a single character of text.
ISP (Internet Services Provider): An entity that provides Internet service over the
network. South Hadley Electric Light Department (SHELD) is the ISP for LeverettNet.
"Last Mile" Network: The cabling and infrastructure that provides the connections
accessible to the individual properties.
“Middle Mile”: The network that provides connectivity from local “last mile” networks to
the Internet. LeverettNet has two Middle mile connections, one through the
Massachusetts Broadband Institute and operated by Axia NGNetworks and the other
through Crown Castle. See path diversity diagram below:
MLP (Municipal Light Plant): A municipal entity under Massachusetts law, established
to provide utilities (gas, electricity, telecommunications) to residents and businesses.
The MLP budget and administration are separate and distinct from the general town
budget and administration (similar to an enterprise fund under MA law).
NO (Network Operator): An entity that monitors the performance of the network and
takes corrective action in the event the network is not functioning properly. Holyoke Gas
& Electric Telecom Division is the NO for LeverettNet.
ONT (Optical Network Terminal): A network interface device used with fiber-optic
systems. The ONT is the demarcation point between the LeverettNet fiber-optic network
and the subscriber premises Ethernet wiring. The subscriber router connects to the
ONT and serves the subscriber’s devices. The ONT converts optical signals into
electrical signals, and vice-versa. The ONT terminates the fiber optic line in an inner
compartment and the premises Ethernet and telephone wiring in an outer compartment.
The ONT is powered from the subscriber premises electrical system, through an
uninterruptible power supply (UPS) unit.
NOTE: The ONT and UPS are the property of the Town of Leverett. The ONT is not to
be painted, moved, adjusted, or tampered with.
The homeowner may access only the outer compartment behind the weatherproof
exterior door—which is secured by an ordinary slotted screw—for ports to connect
premises Ethernet and telephone wiring. Operational status lights are visible in this
outer compartment.
ONT connections.
Point of Presence: A Point of Presence is a demarcation and access point to the
Internet. It is a physical location that houses electronic equipment necessary to connect
the “last mile” network to the “middle mile,” which connects through the ISP to the
Internet.
Symmetrical Bandwidth: Equal upload and download capacity. Download (or
downstream) bandwidth is the path that brings information from the network to a
subscriber’s device. Upload (or upstream) is the path that carries information from the
subscriber’s device into the network. All Internet activity involves both paths. Video
streaming is an example of an activity that uses more downstream than up. Cloud
services, telehealth, and video conferencing are examples of activities that use up and
down streams more evenly and may use upstream more than down.
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): Contains a battery backup to provide short-term
power to the ONT in the event of a grid power outage. Converts AC (alternating current)
from the electrical grid into DC (direct current) to the ONT and keeps the battery
charged. The apparatus provides surge protection and filtering to correct some common
utility grid problems—voltage and frequency instabilities. The UPS is connected to the
ONT with two power wires and five signal wires. The battery in the UPS unit is a sealed,
maintenance-free lead-acid type. For more information about the UPS, see the
Technical Section above. A product overview for the UPS is available from the
CyberPowerSystems.
NOTE: The ONT and UPS are the property of the Town of Leverett. The UPS is not to
be painted, moved, adjusted, or tampered with.FAQ Questions & Answers
Updated August 2023
FOR SERVICE PROBLEMS OR QUESTIONS:
Contact the ISP: 413-420-7028, option 2 for technical support
Email: customerservice@sheld.org
Contact the LMLP: lmlp@leverett.ma.us
Protect your fiber connection: In order to avoid expensive repairs to the fiber-optic
cable that brings LeverettNet telephone and Internet services to the premise, remember
it is the property owner’s responsibility to avoid damage to the fiber and the Optical
Network Terminal (ONT). The Leverett Municipal Light Plant (LMLP), in accordance
with general utility company practice, holds homeowners responsible for costs to
repair fiber broken or damaged by homeowner or homeowner-contracted
activities, including digging, moving, tampering with, or otherwise interfering with
the fiber cable or ONT.
NOTE: Conventional methods of identifying underground utility lines before digging—
such as Dig-Safe flagging—are not effective with underground fiber-optic cable because
the metal detectors they use cannot detect glass. If you plan on digging, contact the
LMLP at 413-548-9699 to get a copy of the conduit plan for your location.
Reminder Do Not Move the ONT: To protect the fiber cable from being broken please
arrange to have one of the local electricians move the ONT if needed due to siding,
painting, or other work. The MLP has decided to cover the cost of the two electrician
visits needed to remove and replace an ONT if we are notified before the work is begun
with enough time to set up an electrician. To arrange for an electrician, please call the
LMLP at 413-548-9699.
Frequently Asked Questions
The FAQ is organized in sections.
General – what is LeverettNet, etc.
Services – phone, email, new service, etc.
Technical – UPS, ONT, routers, security, fiber path, etc.
Glossary – what the acronyms mean
General
What is Leverettnet.net? LeverettNet.net is the domain name of the fiber-optic
broadband network serving residents and businesses in the Town of Leverett,
Massachusetts. Email addresses provided by the ISP are in the leverettnet.net domain.
What is LMLP? Leverett Municipal Light Plant, the custodian of LeverettNet.
Who owns the network? The Town of Leverett owns the network.
Services
What services are available over LeverettNet?
Internet service with 1Gps (one gigabit per second) symmetrical (upload and download)
access to the “middle-mile,” with no data cap.
Telephone service with unlimited calling to 50 states plus Extended domestic; calls
outside the 48 states billed at published International rates; call waiting; caller ID; caller
name ID; voicemail; call forwarding; call forwarding busy, do not answer, and fixed;
enhanced call forwarding do not answer; caller ID blocking and unblocking; message
waiting indication (stutter tone); 411 directory service. These services may be
subscribed to separately or as a bundle.
Can I make international calls?
Yes. But, in an effort to protect you from expensive international toll fraud, international
calling is initially automatically blocked from your phone as a safeguard. Lifting this
block is easy and effective. If you would like to unblock International Calling, please
contact SHELD at 413-420-7028.
What email options exist on LeverettNet?
Email accounts (POP and IMAP), up to 5 per Subscriber, at 5GB minimum storage per
account, with the domain name leverettnet.net are included with Internet service
subscriptions. Other email accounts (gmail, yahoo, etc. . . .) can be used separately or
forwarded to a leverettnet address (or vice versa).
What television options exist on LeverettNet?
LeverettNet does not offer separate television service (often referred to as cable), but
does provide access to television and video streaming services over the Internet
(sometimes referred to as video “over the top”).
Video streaming services include Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Amazon Video, Vudu, YouTube,
Sling TV, and many others. Some satellite television providers—like Dish TV and
Directtv—also provide access via an Internet connection, without needing a satellite
dish. ‘Smart’ TVs and stand-alone streaming media hardware devices—for example,
Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, Fire TV Stick, etc.—allow television sets to connect to
“over-the-top” content.
How do I subscribe for services or call for customer support?
Contact the ISP: https://wwww.sheld.org/fibersping; phone: 413-420-7028.
How do I get service at a new house or location?
A new home connection to LeverettNet requires a fiber-optic drop line from the network
distribution line at a roadside utility pole to an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) on the
house. Unless the homeowner provides a passable buried conduit (minimum size 1¼”),
the drop line will be aerial. The ONT is powered by an Uninterruptible Power Supply
(UPS) connected to the house electric system. The drop line and associated equipment
remain the property of the Town.
The LMLP has contracted with Collins Electric to install new connections, as follows:
Generic Scope of work:
* Up to 500′ aerial or in passable conduit minimum size 1¼”
* One 2-fiber cable drop from distribution pole closure to house
* One Calix 711GE ONT at approved owner location
* One UPS and 7-conductor line to ONT
* Splicing one pigtail SC/APC at customer location
Estimated Base Price: $2,400.00.
Notes:
* Collins will track installation time and the actual cost may be lower or higher.
* Collins will provide a specific cost estimate, for a fee of $150.
* Homeowner must provide 120-volt outlet for UPS.
* Homeowner is responsible for interior network wiring (Ethernet, router, etc.).
To initiate the process for a new connection to LeverettNet, contact Margie McGinnis at
lmlp@leverett.ma.us or 413-548-9699 for further information.
Can I subscribe to more than one LeverettNet account?
The ONT has two Ethernet ports and two telephone ports, where the homeowner’s
cable(s) connect to inside wiring. Each port can be provisioned by the ISP to carry a
separate Internet or telephone account. Arrangements for additional LeverettNet
accounts can be made directly with the ISP. It is also possible to arrange with the ISP to
install an ONT with more than two ports for even more accounts.
May I resell the use of my LeverettNet connection?
The Leverett Municipal Light Plant as a matter of policy forbids resale of a LeverettNet
connection. Anyone seeking a commercial arrangement for LeverettNet usage should
contact the LMLP, which will review requests and, if approved, establish terms that
ensure network build, maintenance, and operating costs are shared appropriately.
Where do I report a problem like a tree on a fiber cable?
If you know of a tree that looks like a danger to the wires along the street, please
let the MLP know by emailing the tree location (nearest house address) and the
numbers on the nearest pole with a description of the problem to
lmlp@leverett.ma.us.
For emergencies, contact the ISP at phone 413-420-7028.
Technical
What do the indicator lights mean on the UPS?
? System Status: Green = normal operation
? DC: Green = battery is supplying power (see diagram below for alarm details)
? Mute: Orange = alarm muted (see diagram below for muting instructions)
? Replace Battery: Red = battery replacement required
Uninterruptible power supply indicator lights.
When to replace the battery in the UPS?
The indicator lights on the UPS, shown above, include battery status information. When
the battery is at 45% capacity, the DC status light will begin to flash and the unit will
begin to beep four times per minute. When the battery is depleted, the REPLACE
BATTERY light will turn red. The typical life of the battery used in the UPS is around 4
years. We recommend replacing the battery before then to ensure reliability. The
subscriber may replace the battery directly (see below) or contact an electrician. The
following local electrician is certified by LeverettNet to work on ONT and UPS issues:
Lee Edelberg [H. 413-549-8963; M. 413-522-0356].
How to replace the UPS battery myself?
The battery is hot-swappable. You may replace it while the UPS is connected to the
ONT. See diagram below for details.
The UPS battery charges when it is connected to utility power. The battery charges fully
during the first 24 hours of normal operation. Do not expect full battery run capability
during this initial charge period. The typical life of the battery used in the ONT UPS is
around 4 years. We recommend replacing a 4-year old battery to ensure best
reliability. We also recommend putting a tag on the battery or the UPS giving the date
when the battery was replaced.
What battery to use for replacement?
The battery that is supplied in the CyberPower UPS power supply is a sealed,
maintenance-free, lead acid battery rated 12Vdc and 7.2 amp-hour, and having 1/4″
terminals (called T2 or F2 style). It should be replaced with a substantially identical
battery, having the same style terminals. 12V 7Ah would be appropriate if 7.2Ah cannot
be found.
CyberPower, the manufacturer of the UPS that is used with the ONTs in Leverett has
stated, “The unit requires use of SLA 12V/7.2Ah, part# RB1270.” Technical data
available at https://www.cyberpowersystems.com/product/fttx/csn27u12v/
We recommend having the replacement done by one of the Town electricians (see
“when to replace,” above). If you are certain you can find and install an appropriate
replacement, that is permissible, but you then take responsibility for the correct
functioning of the unit. DO NOT substitute batteries of other chemistries (e.g., lithium,
nickel-cadmium, etc.) or of a different physical size (8Ah batteries, for example are too
large). Using an incorrect battery may cause damage or risk of energy hazard. The
old battery you replace can be deposited with an attendant at the Leverett Transfer
Station for proper disposal.
What inside premises wiring is needed for Internet connections?
Fiber-to-the-home premises equipment and wiring.
The ONT converts signals carried as pulses of light on the optical fiber into electrical
signals carried over low voltage twisted pair wire copper wiring referred to as “Ethernet”
wiring. Ethernet carries the electrical signals from a port on the ONT to the subscriber’s
equipment, typically a router. For network administration and security reasons, you
should not connect a computer directly to the ONT, unless you are requested to do
so by a service technician. The data rate of the signals to and from the ONT is one
gigabit per second (that is, one thousand million bits transferred over the wire per
second), often abbreviated as 1gbs. Categories of ethernet wire suitable for that data
rate are Cat 5 and higher. Cat 5e is normally considered entirely suitable for all but the
longest and most interference-prone installations. A typical residential network will
connect computers, printers, and other devices via wired jacks or wirelessly. In either
instance, a router will be connected by Ethernet wire to an Ethernet port in the ONT
(behind the outer weatherproof door) and will serve the inside network via wireless or a
mix of wireless and wired connections. Ethernet wiring can be installed by electricians,
but may also be installed by others having appropriate skills. It is not highly complex to
install. The most critical factors are that the cable must not be allowed to kink or be
secured so tightly that it is crushed.
What inside premises wiring is needed for telephone connections?
The ONT provides connection ports for telephone as well as for Ethernet. The jack on
your existing telephone wiring will unplug from the telephone company service box and
plug directly into a telephone port in the ONT (behind the outer weatherproof door). If
you install new telephone wiring from the ONT to connect to existing telephone wiring
inside your house, the following diagram shows the most common situation. In the event
you end up with spare wires, cut the ends cleanly and wrap them back around the wire
casing.
Telephone wire pairing
Do I need a modem in addition to a router?
No, you do not need a modem. The ONT serves the same purpose as a modem.
What is the procedure to replace my router?
If you replace an existing router with a new router, call SHELD Customer Service at
413-420-7028 to discuss it with them and minimize your Internet down time. They can
clear the old router information from the ONT and provide an Internet address for the
new router. This process will be quicker during regular business hours: 8:30 am – 4:30
pm Monday – Friday.
After you speak with SHELD, you can follow these Do-It-Yourself steps to reset the
ONT yourself by powering down/up the UPS/battery back-up inside your house. Here
are the steps:
1. Power down and disconnect the old router.
2. Locate the UPS/battery back-up that supplies power to the ONT. Disconnect AC
power, remove the battery cover and disconnect the negative battery lead.
3. Wait 30 seconds.
4. Reconnect the negative battery lead, replace the battery cover, and reconnect
AC power.
5. Connect and power up the new router.
What about network security?
A number of mechanisms are built into the LeverettNet network nodes and ONTs to
enhance network security. Security features configured on the Leverettnet network include,
but are not limited to, MAC forced forwarding, Multicast Filtering, IP DHCP Option82, IGMP
snooping, IP Source Verify and limited scope VLANS. The Network Operator has deployed
these features globally across the network. Additionally, the network has the ability to
prioritize certain types of traffic over others. For example – telephone takes priority over
Internet.
For home networks: The short answer is “Read the instructions that come with your router!”
There are many variations of routers with different methods for managing security. Some
are able to provide more security and are easier to set up than others. The key security
feature for any router is that it have password-controlled access to the home network. It is
important to change the password for the router’s “admin” or “manager” account
from its factory default as soon as the router is installed. Information about how to set
both passwords will be found when you read the instructions that come with the router.
What affects network speed?
LeverettNet provides access to a gigabit speed to the Internet. Some factors can inhibit
access to this speed, including:
? the network interface card on a subscriber device (1000BASE-T = gigabit capable)
? other components of subscriber devices (chipsets, motherboards, operating
systems, applications, etc.)
? rating on the Ethernet cable (Cat5e = gigabit capable)
? simultaneously running bandwidth-intensive applications (e.g., video takes priority
over other data)
? delay in LeverettNet and/or the Internet beyond LeverettNet and/or websites, due to
traffic congestion, rerouting, etc.
? older wireless access point and/or wireless network adapter (protocol earlier than
802.11n)
Notes: *wireless is inherently slower than wired; optimize wireless by locating the access
point closer to devices with few barriers; use different frequencies from cordless phones;
etc. Websites, even speed test websites, do not necessarily run at 1Gig
How to locate the path of buried fiber on my property?
A survey plan for the aerial or underground path of a fiber “drop” to a subscriber location is
completed prior to the installation. This plan shows the approximate path to be taken and
provides a good reference to use when searching for the conduit. This plan is on file with
the LMLP in Town Hall. Contact the LMLP to see a copy of the plan for your location.
NOTE: The actual path of the cable is subject to conditions discovered in the course
of the trenching work and for this reason may be found far from the path shown by
the plan. Underground drops are enclosed in an orange-colored conduit, buried
approximately five to twelve inches below the surface. The best practice for digging
anywhere between the roadway and the house ONT installation is to dig by hand for the first
twelve inches of depth. The homeowner is responsible for costs to repair fiber broken or
damaged by digging or other interference.
Glossary
Active Ethernet (AE): An Active Ethernet network provides each subscriber with their
own fiber link to the network node switch, which links the local network to the Internet. In
comparison, a GPON network uses passive optical splitters to connect up to 32
subscribers to a single fiber link to the network node. AE makes higher bandwidth
possible by the direct link from the switch to the subscriber. LeverettNet employs AE.
Ethernet: A system for connecting computer systems, with protocols to control the
passing of information and to avoid simultaneous transmission by two or more systems.
For more information about Ethernet wiring in your home, see the Technical
Section above.
Fiber-Optic: Optical fiber is a strand of glass about as thin as a human hair that
transmits light pulses carrying digital information. The light pulses are generated,
received, and converted from/to electrical signals by electronic equipment at each end
of the fiber, to form a communications network. Fibers are grouped in bundles in cables
throughout the network. Optical fiber is less expensive and lighter weight than copper
wires and can transmit more data with less power and signal degradation over longer
distances. Optical fiber is electrically non-conductive and not subject to electromagnetic
interference and does not emit any electromagnetic radiation.
FTTx (Fiber-to-the-x): Fiber to the x (FTTX) is a generic term for any broadband
network architecture using optical fiber to provide all or part of a last mile
telecommunications system. Fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) refers to fiber optic cable
connections to individual residences; also known as Fiber-to-the-premise (FTTP);
LeverettNet deploys this architecture. Fiber-to-the-curb (FTTC) refers to fiber optic cable
extended along a street or road, passing individual premises. Typically with FTTC the
homeowner must pay the cost of installing the needed fiber between their house and
the road.
Gigabit (Gb): A Gigabit of Internet bandwidth is 1,000 Megabits (Mb). A Gigabit network
can provide data transfer rates of one gigabit per second (Gbps) over fiber. Most enduser
devices process data at slower speeds than fiber.
NOTE: Gigabit as a measure of bandwidth is not to be confused with Gigabit as a
measure of data. Bandwidth (what engineers call bitrate) refers to data transfer
rates: how fast information can move between devices. A Gigabit of data, in contrast, is
a measurement of quantity: one billion bits of data. It takes eight bits (referred to as a
byte) to store a single character of text.
ISP (Internet Services Provider): An entity that provides Internet service over the
network. South Hadley Electric Light Department (SHELD) is the ISP for LeverettNet.
"Last Mile" Network: The cabling and infrastructure that provides the connections
accessible to the individual properties.
“Middle Mile”: The network that provides connectivity from local “last mile” networks to
the Internet. LeverettNet has two Middle mile connections, one through the
Massachusetts Broadband Institute and operated by Axia NGNetworks and the other
through Crown Castle. See path diversity diagram below:
MLP (Municipal Light Plant): A municipal entity under Massachusetts law, established
to provide utilities (gas, electricity, telecommunications) to residents and businesses.
The MLP budget and administration are separate and distinct from the general town
budget and administration (similar to an enterprise fund under MA law).
NO (Network Operator): An entity that monitors the performance of the network and
takes corrective action in the event the network is not functioning properly. Holyoke Gas
& Electric Telecom Division is the NO for LeverettNet.
ONT (Optical Network Terminal): A network interface device used with fiber-optic
systems. The ONT is the demarcation point between the LeverettNet fiber-optic network
and the subscriber premises Ethernet wiring. The subscriber router connects to the
ONT and serves the subscriber’s devices. The ONT converts optical signals into
electrical signals, and vice-versa. The ONT terminates the fiber optic line in an inner
compartment and the premises Ethernet and telephone wiring in an outer compartment.
The ONT is powered from the subscriber premises electrical system, through an
uninterruptible power supply (UPS) unit.
NOTE: The ONT and UPS are the property of the Town of Leverett. The ONT is not to
be painted, moved, adjusted, or tampered with.
The homeowner may access only the outer compartment behind the weatherproof
exterior door—which is secured by an ordinary slotted screw—for ports to connect
premises Ethernet and telephone wiring. Operational status lights are visible in this
outer compartment.
ONT connections.
Point of Presence: A Point of Presence is a demarcation and access point to the
Internet. It is a physical location that houses electronic equipment necessary to connect
the “last mile” network to the “middle mile,” which connects through the ISP to the
Internet.
Symmetrical Bandwidth: Equal upload and download capacity. Download (or
downstream) bandwidth is the path that brings information from the network to a
subscriber’s device. Upload (or upstream) is the path that carries information from the
subscriber’s device into the network. All Internet activity involves both paths. Video
streaming is an example of an activity that uses more downstream than up. Cloud
services, telehealth, and video conferencing are examples of activities that use up and
down streams more evenly and may use upstream more than down.
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): Contains a battery backup to provide short-term
power to the ONT in the event of a grid power outage. Converts AC (alternating current)
from the electrical grid into DC (direct current) to the ONT and keeps the battery
charged. The apparatus provides surge protection and filtering to correct some common
utility grid problems—voltage and frequency instabilities. The UPS is connected to the
ONT with two power wires and five signal wires. The battery in the UPS unit is a sealed,
maintenance-free lead-acid type. For more information about the UPS, see the
Technical Section above. A product overview for the UPS is available from the
CyberPowerSystems.
NOTE: The ONT and UPS are the property of the Town of Leverett. The UPS is not to
be painted, moved, adjusted, or tampered with.
Select Board Policies
Town Clerk
- Marriage License
Marriage Licenses in Massachusetts
The legal age to marry in Massachusetts is 18 (M.G.L. ch. 207, s. 33A). All people who marry in the state must have a marriage license issued in Massachusetts by any city or town clerk (M.G.L. ch. 207, s. 28).
Proper identification is necessary. You may be required to show a certified birth certificate.
Marriage licenses are issued from any Massachusetts city or town hall.
Marriage licenses require a 3-day waiting period from the time you fill out the application and the time the license can be picked up and are valid for 6 months. You must come with your partner to fill out a marriage license application.
Contact Town Clerk 413-548-9150 with questions.
click here: Massachusetts Marriage License Info
You may also call Citizen Information Service at 617-727-7030 or 800-392-6090 for additional information.