1984-06-BOS-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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_ He noted types of preliminary prop.osal.s. and indications of interest received thus far which include school, church and housing. He pointed out that more extensive changes to the property would be necessary, if it is to be used f or housing . now The Committee has decided against commercial or office' use, which he doubted would receive Town Meeting approval, in f avbr of housing or church /school use. of housing uses, the Committee has suggested other than market rate housing be favored, with preference for congregate housing. Mr. McLaughlin reported that input has been received from major boards. J. Smith spoke for the Planning Board which recommends keep ing the property in Town for possible future school use (noting potential for increased residential development 1 S. Lexington) and maintenance of the playing fields. Mrs. Smith pointed out possible traffic problems related to any future use noting the fact that there are only 24 parking spaces at Franklin. The Recreation Committee also recommends retention and maintenance of playing fields. The Housing Authority is interested in exploring use for elderly housing, possibly congregate. The Franklin Committee will weigh the issue of return to the Town under the various options submitted, Mr. McLaughlin noted, with respect to a Leasing option for school/ church use that it would delay the conversion process, but would have the advantage of keeping the building in the Town inventory; necessitate few building changes; be acceptable to the neighbors and would retain the playf ields for Town use. He felt that neighbors views should be considered 7 but that Townwide interests are to be a primary consideration. Mrs. Battin asked if any consensus had been reached. now Mr. Marshall noted that the Muzzey experience should prove to be helpful in dealing with Franklin. He was in favor of use for below market rate hour ing , ' if decision on permanent use is to be made at this point. He felt that the to -year lease option would be acceptable only if the Board wants to postpone its decision., Mr. Edd i s on said he leaned toward limited income mixed housing rather than only for elderly, Mrs. Battin said she wished to keep her options open f or of f ordable housing or retaining ownership and leasing, Mr. McLaughlin advised tabling of the matter to July 25, noting that the Committee had wanted .the Board's input and a sense of direction, and had not expected f ina 1 decisions to be made at this time , He added that a draft R.F.P. is being prepared and will be ready for advertising in mid July. Developers who had previously expressed interest in other phased -out schools will The contacted. Following review of conceptual plans received, the Committee will pursue the most promising of the proposals, and :return to the Board with its findings. Promotions Capt . John Quinlan and Lt. Edward Costello, Lexington Fire Department, Fire Dept. were present for acknowledgement of their recent promotions. Chief Bergeron informed the Board of the background, qualifications, and areas of res- ponsibility of both-men, who were then presented with their badges by their wives. Mrs. Battin expressed the Board's pride in the achievements of the officers and congratulated them on their accomplishment. woo