2006-12-14-CPC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

Ann Whitney presented the Lexington Housing Authority’s request for $228,404 to replace windows at Greeley Village that are original since its opening in 1968. Greeley Village is a state funded affordable housing development for the elderly. The state has not given money to do modernization work. The rest of the money needed to complete the work ($20,000) will come from rent collected by the Housing Authority. Frank Sandy, Precinct 6, said that this sounds like the state’s obligation, and CPA funding would set a bad precedent. Ann Whitney said that the project is one that the CPA allows because it will preserve low-income housing. We need to preserve our 40B housing. The Town has an obligation to meet the 10% requirement and Greeley Village counts towards this. East Lexington Library Connie Rawson, Director of Cary Library, is requesting $25,000 (application says $15,000) for a complete study of the Stone Building to preserve the building for historical purposes and define standards necessary to bring the building into compliance with ADA accessibility standards. The Stone building dates back to 1833 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was offered to the Trustees of Cary Library in 1892. Several citizens came to voice their support of the project. The consensus was that at the very least, the study is worthwhile to help the community discuss how to use the building in the future. Connie Rawson will firm up the amount needed for a thorough study of all aspects of the building and come back to the Committee in January. Restoration of Cary Hall for Performances Sheila Watson and Joan Zahka presented the proposal on behalf of the Lexington Center Committee. The overall request is for $698,000 to evaluate the current facility, develop a comprehensive plan for the restoration of Cary Hall as a center for public presentation and performance, and make the necessary restorations. The funds requested could be st approved in phases to bring Cary Hall up to the 21 Century performance standards. Historical research indicates that the Cary family meant for the Hall to be used for theatricals as well as meetings. David Kanter, Appropriation Committee, is against anything but the presentation of a proposal for a business plan at the spring Town Meeting. Alan Levine, Appropriation Committee, recommends that the study be comprehensive, hitting every single aspect of the building as a system. Masha Traber, Precinct 5, is concerned that the National Heritage Museum will lose business. Shirley Stolz wanted to know if handicap access to the Bird Room would be included. Sheila Watson said that the ADA question will be factored in to the architectural piece of the study which will be done second, after the feasibility study. The study will look at parking, the impact on other businesses, and help evaluate whether this is a good proposition for the Town.