1967-Annual Report - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

BOARD OF SELECTMEN operation among our citizens with their government has never been more important and necessary. In our report for 1966, the first to be presented in a more popular format, we empha- sized the nature of the changes which have occurred in Lexington. The new conditions which require new thinking, new decisions, and perhaps a new outlook have reflected our population growth and all that this means in terms of community services, public safety, protection and education. We urged restraint, not reaction, in the approach to our fiscal affairs. We urged wise and timely adjustment to change in the interests of the greatest good for the greatest number, the major and unceasing problem and challenge of government in Lexington. These changes and the challenge they present for all of us continue and will continue for many years to come. They are more fully and definitively developed in the several re- ports of the various boards, committees, and commissions reporting on their past year's stewardship. Particular problems and matters of public concern, and some of the issues and alternatives which confront us as a citizenry, should be studied in greater depth. It is one of the purposes of this new reporting approach to communicate more effectively among all of our town governmental agencies and with our people. Appearance and Environment During the past year we have seen the completion of an initial phase of the beautifica- tion of Lexington's center, subsequent to the widening of Massachusetts Avenue and the change in the frontage lines of privately -owned property. For more than fifty years the town has discussed the "widening of Massachusetts Avenue." The objective of providing a scenic and uniformly attractive approach to our historic Green is nearer to full realization. Private . interests have worked diligently to make their places of business more attractive and appeal- ing for those of us who live here, for those who may be interested in moving here, or for those visiting with us and our families. The concept of a leisurely mall or promenade with appropriate plantings and land- scaping will continue to enhance the image of Lexington with the passing years. We applaud the work of the committee which devoted so much time and effort on behalf of the town and the business community to bring this dream to reality. There is yet more to be done in the years ahead to extend this worthwhile improvement. As we consider the appearance of the town and the environment which we are proud to call Lexington, we are reminded again of the pressures occasioned by the expanding metro- politan area of which we are in reality a part. How can we continue to enjoy the benefits and attributes of a town with its open spaces, its outdoor recreational opportunities, and the kind of environment which many of us have been able to enjoy in former years? The work of our planning board, recreation committee and conservation commission is directly related to these considerations which add up to the quality of a community. One of the major questions being asked is that of the destiny of the Great Meadows. We have been and are deeply concerned about this matter as are many interested citizens. Again, the alternatives, the desirability of maintaining this area "as it is" and its significance for other open space uses will be a continuing item on the agenda of town affairs. The open area on Lincoln Street, which extends from the Bridge School site on Middleby Road to Worthen Road opposite the public playground and high school complex, is now under Five Year Trends in the Office of the Board of Selectmen 1963 Personal Services 21,215.85 Expenses 5,220.29 Staff as of Dec. 31 4 1964 28,269.69 7,454.09 6 1965 1966 1967 30,029.37 27,568.64 31,588.49 4,831.73 4,989.22 5,186.93 4 4 4