1967-Annual Report - Laserfiche WebLink

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BOARD OF SELECTMEN survey in preparation for the development of this land as a part of our recreational facilities for the town. Again, this is a project which represents the thinking and planning of many citizens over many years. Their concern on behalf of their town will soon become another impossible dream come true. A number of areas, recommended by the conservation commission and voted by the town meeting, are in the process of being acquired for the perpetual use and enjoyment of our citizens. We are convinced that a reasonable balance of open space areas reflecting the opportunity for outdoor recreation, natural conservation and enjoyment of our residents will enhance the quality of life in this metropolitan area for many years to come and serve to conserve our spiritual as well as economic values. Health and Recreation Looking ahead, we are concerned with those management measures which must be taken to improve and maintain adequate safeguards for the public health and to insure proper sanitation controls. As the population increases, not only in Lexington but also in our neigh- boring communities, we must work with others to solve inter - related problems among the cities and towns. We are pleased that one of our citizens has been elected chairman of the newly- formed regional refuse disposal planning board. The board included eighteen capable representatives from the contiguous communities of Bedford, Concord, Lexington, Lincoln, Waltham and Weston. The board has constituted itself in accordance with enabling legislation of the Com- monwealth and is exploring specific measures for the future disposal of solid wastes. More effective disposal of sewage wastes has been accomplished in cooperation with the Town of Bedford and HanscomField authorities. The several agencies concerned with daily matters of public health have been diligent. We have observed that the town's investment in public recreational facilities has been used to the fullest under an effective program of the recreation committee. More recreation workers have handled a record number of children, youth and adults. We commend the committee for its efforts to communicate more effectively with the town. Here, again, is evidence of improving inter - agency cooperation and communication within the town. Many valuable endeavors have been made possible because of effective work on the part of the recreation committee, department of public works, school department, planning board and conservation commission. The Lincoln Street recreational development is such an example. Our agencies working with the intent of the town meeting bring about prog- ress for the good of many. The Selectmen's Committee on Air Polution is another example of citizen participa- tion which will command our attention for many years to come. A public awareness of these associated problems is nationwide in scope. We are locally concerned and have taken steps to control those immediate problems which can be controlled locally. Public Works and Public Safety Among the continuing concerns related to our public safety and protection are traffic control and flow, parking, measures for effectively safeguarding our citizens lives and pro- perty from the ravages of fire, natural calamity or criminals, and the implementation of those regulations which may be necessary in a well- ordered community. An improvement in the appearance of our public works center on Bedford Street is already apparent. The improvement in the effectiveness and efficiency of the department from the benefits of such a structure are virtually completed. After delays which made necessary the authority of the bonding company to assure completion upon default by the builder, the committee responsible for this project was completing its work of double- checking 7