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Project: Munroe School Fire Prevention System Replacement CPA Category: Historic Preservation Amount Requested: $579,550 Amount Recommended: Up to $579,550 CPC Vote: Approval (5 -4) Project Description: This project is proposed to install a new fire detection and protection system to provide necessary safety and security to the former Munroe School building so that the building can continue to be used for a variety of arts purposes. The Board of Selectmen has voted unanimously to recommend that an RFP be prepared to use the site as a center for arts education. Although the RFP process will likely not be completed by the time Town Meeting will be voting on CPA projects, nevertheless, the BOS has recognized that for the Munroe School to continue to be used as an educational institution, the installation of a fire suppression system is mandatory. Project Goals and Objectives: Removal of asbestos and lead paint • Installation of new sprinkler and fire alarm systems Project Benefit: Munroe School was constructed in 1904 by Willard D. Brown, one of Lexington's most important architects (Cary Library, Town Office Building Complex, various residences throughout town). The building was closed as a school in 1979 and has been occupied since 1984 by arts groups and arts - related businesses. The current Munroe Center for the Arts was organized in 1994 to serve as the non - profit umbrella organization for these groups. The building currently houses five arts schools (two dance companies, a children's arts program, a music school, and a martial arts school), a theater company, a non - profit charity organization, studio artists and gallery space, which to date have occupied the building free of any rental payment to the Town, although they have made and paid for some small capital improvements over the years. The Selectmen have requested that the organization submit a business plan with regard to purchase of the building or payment of rent. Inspections of the building have indicated significant deficiencies in the current fire- protection system, and steps are now being taken to reduce the fire - related hazards within the building. While there is not an immediate threat to continued occupancy, there are threats that are aggravated by existing uses of the building that must be addressed. Although the Board of Selectmen has indicated their intention to explore disposing of the building, until such disposition occurs, the Town is responsible for the building. The complicated issues this request raises are reflected in the five to four vote to recommend that it be forwarded to Town Meeting for consideration. While recognizing the primary issues of safety and fiduciary responsibility for wise stewardship of town resources, Town Meeting must decide whether to fund this request before it has considered and approved an arrangement to sell the building or a lease has been executed by the Selectmen. Funding Request: The project requests up to $579,550 of CPA funding to remove asbestos and lead paint and install new sprinkler and fire alarm systems. 20