2022-12-02-VISION2025-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mark Sandeen noted that there is a newly-hired DEI position in the Town Manager’s Office, the Chief Equity Officer and suggested inviting them to a VFL Meeting. Weidong Wang noted that the Town Meeting Members Association hosted a DEI instruction training. Bob Peters highlighted the TMMA Training and shared that “Belonging” is a helpful addition to DEI, and that “Diversity”, “Equity”, and “Inclusion” are individual efforts that need to be pursued. Margaret Coppe suggested that the on-boarding process for new committee members include a DEI- focused element. Update on Subcommittee on Voter Participation in Lexington Margaret Coppe noted that the work of the subcommittee is ongoing and is discussing current events. Marian Cohen discussed the importance of education and civic curriculum in voter participation. Marian Cohen also included social diversity into the conversation and that a group be formed regarding that topic. Next Steps: Discussion of new study Review of recommendations of previous studies  Communications  Asian participation Margaret Coppe discussed the Communications study and school communication. Marian Cohen highlighted the Public Information Officer/Director of Communications and suggested that the position also cover the school’s communications. John Giudice added that the Center Streetscape Project was well-communicated, though added that some functions of the town might not need the same level of communications, but perhaps a quarterly program. Mark Sandeen shared that parents of students receive more regular communications from the schools than community members without school-age children. Weidong Wang noted that the webpage navigation can be improved as a means to improve communication. Samita Madelia suggested utilizing the Town Webpage to provide more holistic communications for events in Lexington. John Giudice suggested drafting a list of priorities to share with the Town’s decision-makers. Mark Sandeen highlighted the plan of a community charrette for downtown revitalization. Bob Peters shared the Planning Board’s work on housing due to the MBTA Communities law where there were successful and helpful engagement with residents surrounding the topic of multi-family housing.