2016-05-06-CEC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Minutes of the Lexington Capital Expenditures Committee (CEC) Meeting May 6, 2016 • Alternative locations for the Schools' Central Offices; • Changing the configuration of grades that are accommodated at each level; • Short -term uses for the Site that would address current space limitations, although most of these would be for programs that are not mandated. Costs for various components were identified. It was noted that taxpayers recently approved to exclude from the limits of Proposition 2'/2 most of the debt for much the $71.0 million estimated to be needed to upgrade the middle schools and to add portable classrooms at some of the elementary schools; it is anticipated that taxpayers will be asked in the near future to approve another debt exclusion for rebuilding the Maria Hastings Elementary School —a project estimated at approximately $40 million. Because of continued school - enrollment increases and school - enrollment projections, Ms. Colburn expressed support for purchasing the land. Mr. Pato added that he supports the purchase because it provides flexibility, not because of an identified immediate use. He added that the current owners of the Site have received alternative offers, and the Town must make a decision in the near future; the Town could eventually sell the property if it does not meet any needs. This Committee agreed that its report to STM 2016 -2 would identify the top three -to -five possible uses for the Site and list the pros and cons of each. It was noted that the building requires remediation for asbestos and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB); additional road accessibility would need to be addressed —some relatively minor; some major —for most of the contemplated uses; and there are wetlands on the site. A Motion was made and seconded to support STM 2016 -2, Article 2, and to write a report as discussed. Ms. Barnett reported that she would oppose the Motion based on the liability and risks associated with environmental issues and the fact that alternatives exist. She added that the soil has not been tested, and soil removal may be necessary. Vote: 4 -1 Approval of Minutes: A Motion was made and seconded to approve the Pending Final Minutes of the April 26, 2016 meeting. Vote: 5-0 Adjourn: A Motion was made and seconded at 8:43 A.M. to adjourn. Vote: 5-0 These Minutes were approved by the CEC at its meeting on May 25, 2016. Page 2 of 2