2022-04-06 SB-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Betty Gau, Chair of Lexington Bicycle Advisory Committee, explained that the Committee unanimously voted to recommend to the Select Board that it endorse Bill 2309, which clarifies the definition of electric bicycles. This bill is supported because it defines e-bikes into three classes, which is in line with 42 other states. So far, the lack of clarity around how e-bikes are defined has presented challenges when promoting active transportation. VOTE: Upon a motion duly made and seconded, by roll call, the Select Board voted 5-0 to authorize the Select Board Chair and Town Manager to sign onto the e-bike municipal letter of support. DOCUMENTS: LBAC Letter to Select Board_Ebike Bill S2309, DRAFT Letter of Support - E-Bike Bill S.2309, Mass Bike Summary, S. 2309 2. Review and Approve Additional American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding for Business Assistance Mr. Malloy explained that the full $250,000 that the Board initially approved for ARPA spending on Business Assistance Grants has been expended. He noted that the Town currently has between $250,000 - $300,000 in additional applications that have been submitted. He suggested that there be $500,000 available for these funds in 2022, to then reduce this amount to $250,000 for 2023, and then further reduce it to $0 for 2024. Mr. Lucente noted that Arlington, for example, recently stated that it has expended $639,000 in ARPA grant money to 81 small businesses. He believes this is a good use of the funds, and that it fits with the goals and objectives previously set. Mr. Pato stated that he believes more funding is needed, based on the number of additional applications mentioned by Mr. Malloy. In response to a question from Ms. Barry, Mr. Malloy explained that the grants thus far have been fairly equally dispersed for different types of businesses in Town. $25,000 is the cap at this time for requests. In response to a question from Mr. Sandeen, Mr. Malloy explained that this new round of applications seems to be from businesses that took additional time to gather their application materials. This has not yet been opened up to receive a second round of applications from businesses that already received a grant. VOTE: Upon a motion duly made and seconded, by roll call, the Select Board voted 5-0 to increase the Small Business Grant program for 2022 from $250,000 to $600,000. 3. 2022 Annual Town Meeting & Special Town Meetings 2022-1/2022-2 Article Discussion/Positions Regarding Article 27 – Zero Waste Resolution, Mr. Malloy stated that this article does not effect real change in Town and simply restates what is already the Town's position. He expressed concern regarding some of the clauses in the article that relate to waste energy incinerator plants, and some of the article language, “to prioritize solid waste reduction programs that minimize the impact on environmental justice communities.” He is concerned that this will become a mandate for the Town. Ms. Hai noted that Section 90-9 of the Town bylaws states that the Select Board shall provide and maintain a suitable place or method for free public disposal of refuse and rubbish. It also gives the Select Board authority to make the rules and regulations regarding that disposal. The Select Board regulations on