2020-08-12-REC-min (includes attachments)

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2 online survey trends similarly but typically skews the data a bit,there is a comparison report focused on key questions. The survey also includes all the open comment boxes to use for data points. The actual graphics used in the report are from the statistically valid survey,however, the consulting firm looks at the commonalities and uses the data packs to confirm their findings. Lisa O'Brien expressed her appreciation to Austin and went on to add that she was surprised by the identified need for indoor space. Austin affirmed that there are a lot of fitness and wellness programs in Town that need space, and the demand is for a multi-functional facility. Ms. O'Brien went on to add that she was impressed by the coordination between the departments to collect data and support the process. Ms. Pfrommer was surprised to learn that walking and biking trails were the#2 facility that the community was satisfied with and yet it was also the#2 priority for facility investment. She also asked if there was anything in the results about ADA accessibility. Austin responded that there is nothing in the key recommendations but it was included in the facility assessments. Melissa Battite, Director of Recreation and Community Programs, explained that the trails and open space lands are all owned by the Town of Lexington but are connected through different entities. This would be a perfect opportunity to identify a leader for a movement to unify the properties. The recommendations will allow us to look at the key partners and identify support. Ms. Battite is excited to collaborate on the initiative together instead of in independent ways. Mr. Boutwell added that this is a great opportunity to apply the MacMillan Matrix to assist the conversations of if we should reach out from a lead perspective, or be a support when it is out of our core competencies. Ms. O'Brien shared that she was surprised by the funding results, and found it interesting to know that Lexington has an appetite for partnerships to get projects funded. Ms. Battite explained that use of the Town's trails is not a fee-generating service. The question of who supports and maintains the property is an important one, especially during this time of COVID. The Department is making difficult decisions when it comes to facility capacity and resources for programming so the core services conversation is already helping to guide us. Suzie Barry, liaison to the Select Board, expressed that she is looking forward to the presentation later in September. She recommended requesting more than 20 minutes in order to fully present the findings. She also suggested putting it out to the Town Meeting Members so they can hear the presentation and not just read the report. Ms. Rhodes commented that it is obvious how interconnected all the entities are in Town. She asked for next steps to which Ms. Battite directed the Committee to ask questions and identify any areas that were unclear. Ms. Pfrommer responded that the report is thorough and clear, that Austin added a lot to the story and provided a compelling narrative. After the discussion concluded, the following important dates were announced: • Monday, August 24th-the Assistant Town Manager of Finance will present a financial summary of FY20 and FY21 forecasts to the Select Board. This includes the Recreation Enterprise Fund, its FY20 fund balance and proposed revised FY21 operating budget. • Thursday, September 10'-a Financial Summit will be held which will include a more detailed description of the state of the Recreation Enterprise Fund. • Wednesday, October 14'-Fall Special Town Meeting will begin. Lisa O'Brien made a motion to adjourn, it was seconded by Christian Boutwell. The August 12th, 2020 meeting of the Recreation Committee adjourned at 8:22pm. 39 MARRETT ROAD,LEXINGTON,MASSACHUSETTS 02421