2013-01-22-CEC-min-exec - Laserfiche WebLink

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Minutes of the Lexington Capital Expenditures Committee (CEC) Meeting January 22, 2013, Executive Session community input and noted that there are different opinions about which approach is preferable. In response to a question, she said that user fees at a community center can only help pay for the facility over time. Mr. Kanter commented that excluded debt doesn't impact the Proposition 2 1 /2 tax -levy restrictions. He opposes using the general tax levy to fund the purchase if that has the potential for having to go out for an override to be able to cover the debt service to avoid not being able to maintain the current level of services. There was a discussion about the two costs involved in this purchase: the purchase and the renovations. Ms. Mauger said that the Council on Aging could move into the main facility almost immediately; renovations could be done over time. She added that the gymnasiums in Lexington are under - utilized, so she does not see the need for building a gym as part of the renovations. Ms. Masterman expressed her continued concern that new /renovated fire and police stations should be the Town's highest priorities. She noted that neither of these projects is being pushed by an opportunity or an event, which results in their being delayed. She added that a gym for the East Lexington Fire Station isn't being supported by Town management, and based on a recent tour of the Police Station, the police need more and updated space. Mr. Hurley said that working in the current buildings can't be morale - building. Ms. Mauger commented that the morale at the police and fire stations is good and the staff is treated well. She is confident that new stations will move forward after the AhTFMPC report is completed. She does not see this purchase impacting this, although the need for new schools could influence timing for the public- safety facilities. Mr. Valente stressed that public safety isn't being compromised by the current fire and police stations, and that the buildings are well maintained. He added that an upgraded fire station is his highest priority, but a decision on this purchase can't wait until the public- safety projects are addressed. Ms. Mauger added that neither Fire Chief Wilson nor Police Chief Corr is saying that they can't do their jobs or that the public is at risk. Mr. Hurley suggested that efficiencies are being compromised. In response to questions about the police firing range and firearms equipment, Mr. Valente said that the Town having even its current outdoor range is the envy of other Towns. Also, the equipment requested by the Police Department is in the FY2014 preliminary budget. Ms. Mauger discussed the Town's constituency groups. There are increases in senior citizens and the young. In her opinion, the Town's services for the elderly, the disabled, and teens need to be expanded, and a community center will service this purpose. She envisions a social model for the facility. Mr. Valente left at 9:34 A.M. Page 3 of 5