HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-06-BOS-min
Selectmen’s Meeting
June 9, 2008
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, June 9, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. in
the Selectmen Meeting Room, Town Office Building. Chairman Cohen, Mrs. Krieger, Mr.
Kelley, Mr. Manz and Mr. Burnell; Mr. Valente, Town Manager; and Ms. Pease, Executive
Clerk, were present.
Selectmen Concerns and Liaison Reports
Mrs. Krieger explained that the Selectmen in Lexington, Lincoln and Weston and the Mayor of
Waltham want to work on traffic issues in the Route 128 central corridor and feel it would be
appropriate to formalize an arrangement and commit to a letter of agreement as the first step in
the collaborative process to seek solutions in positive direction to better insure viable economic
development and growth in our communities. They would like to form the 128 Central Corridor
Collaboration to seek feasible measures to address the impacts of development projects,
increased traffic volume on local and state roadways with the principle thrust being to reduce
single occupancy trips within the corridor. Mrs. Krieger seeks the Board’s approval to move
forward with the concept and she will subsequently have the specific wording of the agreement
letter.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve forming the 128 Central
Corridor Collaboration to work on traffic issues in the Route 128 central corridor.
Mr. Manz reviewed the prior weeks events. Senior Awards Night was held at the high school
followed by the High School graduation. Also on Saturday there was a ribbon cutting for the
solar panels that were installed on the roof of the High School science building.
Mr. Manz discussed a wonderful project that a Lexington High School student did as an Eagle
project, which was to collect bikes for “Bikes Not Bombs”. The bikes are lightly refurbished and
shipped overseas for primary transportation. Mr. Manz spoke to Robert Beaudoin,
Superintendent of Environmental Services, who takes in as many as 20 bikes a week, which is a
huge impact on Lexington’s waste stream, about whether bikes could be collected on a regular
basis. Mr. Manz also spoke to Bikes Not Bombs and they are excited that the Town will be able
to set aside the bikes and they will pick them up on a regular basis, which will permanently
reduce Lexington’s waste stream.
Mr. Cohen mentioned that the PTA Scholarship Committee would be giving out scholarships to
Lexington High School and Minuteman students tomorrow night. Last year over $100,000 in
scholarships was given out.
Town Manager Report
Mr. Valente updated the Selectmen on double poles. Public Works and Fire met with
representatives from Verizon to review their plan to reduce double poles in Lexington. In April
Verizon committed to removing 40 poles by the end of June. They have removed 69 poles and
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 9, 2008
only installed 5 new. That leaves 237 double poles in town. Verizon agreed to meet with staff
again in late July to report on progress. Mr. Manz pointed out how much time and coordination
it takes to remove each pole and Mr. Valente mentioned that if there is a transformer on the pole
it takes much more work to remove because the power has to be turned off and work done at
night.
Mr. Valente attended the ribbon cutting ceremony this past Saturday at the Lexington High
School where the photovoltaic solar panels were installed. This was the result of work done by
the Global Warming Action Coalition headed by Nancy Nolan. Some 350 residents donated
money for the solar panels, which was matched by the Mass Technology Council to purchase the
$50,000 worth of equipment for the solar panels at the high school, which will generate 4
kilowatts of electricity a day. Because of residents donations we have another $60,000 worth of
equipment for another building.
Mr. Valente listed a number of energy conservation initiatives that the Town has undertaken
which show some tremendous progress:
1. 5 years ago - Fiske and Harrington schools had geothermal wells installed to heat and
cool.
2. 3 years ago – started purchasing fuel-efficient vehicles. Have tried Hybrids and
currently trying 4-cylinder vehicles. Currently the Town has 5 Hybrids; the payback
was 9 years for fuel savings when gas was $2.25. Currently continuing to purchase 4-
cylinder vehicles as needed.
3. 2 years ago - adopted Leeds certification and the public works building is being
constructed as a Leed silver building.
4. 2 years ago – the Energy Conservation Committee started changing school lights to
fluorescent bulbs and energy costs are down 11 percent from 2006 to 2008.
5. There has been modest progress in police vehicles. The newest vehicles get 15 MPG
instead of just 10 MPG.
6. Currently talking with the Planning Board to see how the Town can encourage
developers to be more energy efficient.
7. Facilities and DPW are looking into using CNG powered vehicles because of the
Route 128 CNG facility in Lexington.
Mr. Manz mentioned that the new Element Lexington Hotel and Battle Green Inn are discussing
ways to include Leeds energy savings into their buildings.
Mr. Manz also mentioned that the unexpected benefit of the blackout curtains, recently installed
in Cary Hall, not only allow the room to be darkened for viewing the screen, but also cool the
room and reduce the heat load.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 9, 2008
Hearings
Mr. Farrington, an Attorney representing the Starwoods Hotels Corporation, introduced Scott
Thurong, Starwood Vice President for Development; Chris Hartzell, General Manager and
Manager of the Aloft Lexington; and Kathleen Murphy, Manager of the Element Lexington.
The Element Lexington will have a Leed Silver certification. Mr. Farrington also mentioned that
the Battle Green Inn would be a Leed Silver building.
Mr. Hartzell reviewed the liquor management for both hotels. They will use a key access system
to all the places where liquor will be stored and only the Manager, General Manager, Assistant
General Manager and the Food and Beverage Manager will have access to the liquor control
units. Servers, Room and front desk staff and all managers and executive committee members
will receive alcohol awareness training. Everyone will be carded prior to purchasing an
alcoholic beverage and both hotels have a book that shows all photo ID’s from every state. If a
customer has an out-of-state license, staff will check the book and also request an additional ID.
The Element Lexington is an extended stay hotel and all food is complimentary. Liquor service
is always accompanied by food. The Hotel only services its guests.
The Aloft Lexington will serve guests and non-guests.
Mr. Farrington asked about the possibility of getting approval for a mitigation item in the
Covenant to build a trail connector to the Minute Man National Park that involves paving of a 5-
foot wide sidewalk on Massachusetts Avenue.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the necessary paving of a 5-
foot wide sidewalk on the Minuteman Tech side of Massachusetts Avenue to connect the Hotels
to the National Park, subject to the Town Manager receiving all necessary department approvals.
New Liquor License – Element Lexington
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the application and issue an
all alcoholic innholder liquor license to Westin Hotel Management, LP, d/b/a Element
Lexington, 727 Marrett Road-B.
New Liquor License – Aloft Lexington
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the application and issue an
all alcoholic innholder liquor license to Aloft Hotel Management, Inc. d/b/a Aloft Lexington, 727
Marrett Road-A.
Beal Co./Vista Print Presentation on Zoning Change
Mr. Peter Nichols, Senior Vice President and Partner with Beal Company, came before the
Selectmen to discuss a proposed CD zoning change for the Ledgemont buildings on Hayden
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 9, 2008
Avenue to accommodate a current tenant (Vista Print), who has a current long term lease and is
looking to expand. Vista Print is an internet publishing company.
Mr. Joeseph Gloski, a designer with JRO Jung Brannen, showed drawings of the proposed
concept. They plan to follow some simple rules: proximity to existing tenant for ease of access
between buildings and maintaining existing setbacks. They are proposing that at the 2
Ledgemont garage, which has 4 bays, they will maintain the two lower bays and remove the two
upper bays and rebuild two parking bays and then extend up for three floors of office space
(approximately 46,000 square feet per floor). Uphill from Ledgemont 2 will be a new parking
structure built which cascades into the hillside with three additional bays to accommodate 420
cars (90 cars per floor). The elevation of Spring Street is 308 feet at the entrance to Hayden
Avenue. The top floor of the new office building will be at 300 feet, with some mechanicals
above that and the garage will be at 292 feet high.
Mr. Nichols wants the development to remain a campus-type setting and it is important to keep
the buildings out of site for the residents of Spring Street. They are hoping to come before Town
Meeting in the fall of 2008. The new office building will accommodate 450 employees on 3
floors.
The Selectmen encouraged Beal Company to reach out early in the process to South Lexington
Civic Association and its residents to get their input and thoughts as the process goes forward.
Mrs. McKenna, Precinct 6, appreciates the Beal Company starting the process early. She
suggests using the same award winning design concepts, which will be respected by Town
Meeting. She will be looking for an appropriate contribution for Traffic Demand Management
to help maintain Lexpress.
The Traffic Mitigation Group will work with the Beal Company regarding transportation needs.
Council on Aging – Adult Supportive Day Care Program
Mrs. Pagett, member of the Council on Aging, updated the Selectmen on the Adult Supportive
Day Care (ASDC) Program. It is a very important service for a small number of seniors and
their families. Mrs. Pagett reviewed the financial results, average daily participation, annual
revenue and the proposed increase in participation fees. At the Council on Aging meeting on
March 13, 2008, they voted unanimously to support the ASDC program. They plan to market
the program, review whether a fee increase will help achieve greater fiscal balance and they plan
to further investigate how much fees can be increased without reducing participation. The
Council on Aging plans to do what it can to sustain the program.
The Selectmen asked about Youville Place and whether the programs were comparable. They
are comparable, but Youville Place is much more costly.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 9, 2008
The Selectmen feel it is important to try and figure out why participation has decreased, possibly
contacting prior participants.
Mrs. Krieger has visited the program and was impressed with the services provided and agrees
that it is an important program that needs to continue. She encourages any Selectmen who has
not been to the facility to visit.
The Council on Aging will return to the Selectmen with recommendations for the Selectmen’s
approval.
Human Services Committee
Bill Blout, Chair of the Human Services Committee, presented another option for the Youth and
Family Services program and requested the Selectmen’s feedback. They are concerned that a
Youth and Family Services Director position would be a single isolated position without staff
and clinical support. A group in town is actively pursuing the possibility of developing a non-
profit youth and family services center. Seventy people are currently signed up on paper and 25
to 30 are on the verge of signing up to go ahead with forming the non-profit agency. The group
envisions a facility similar to the Replace model used several years ago. The current funding
available from the town would go to the non-profit agency.
The agency would provide coordination, collaboration and would allow direct services within the
agency model for Lexington residents only. Some funds would come from the Town, other
possible funding sources would be private donations from the community, State grants,
foundation grants and possible federal funding.
If the Selectmen agree to go forward with the non-profit agency, there would need to be some
interim solutions. The Town Manager would look into contracting an agency to handle any
serious youth situations. In the interim, the Town would also need to figure out how to handle
immediate needs that require coordination with town and private services.
Ms. Rodgers, Senior Services Director, indicated that the current needs are increasing for things
like summer camp scholarships, water/sewer/fuel assistance, health needs, which may be because
of economic issues. If long-term case management is needed, they are currently being referred
to places like Wayside.
Mr. Blout believes that this new agency would be able to handle situations with immediate needs
like prevention services and especially crises services. They would also be a place to contact
with questions about who to talk to.
Mr. Burnell believes there should be a contact person from the Town to coordinate with the non-
profit agency. Town should not be walking away from its citizens.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 9, 2008
The Selectmen are interested in exploring the idea and feel it needs to be done quickly. The
Human Services Committee will talk with the sponsors of the non-profit agency regarding their
plans and then bring back a proposal and timeline to the Selectmen within a month.
Economic Development Advisory Committee Charge
Molly Garberg and Greg Zurlo, Economic Development Task Force Co-Chairs, presented the
Economic Development Advisory Committee charge. The purpose of the Committee is to
promote balanced, long-term economic development that reflects and enhances the character of
Lexington.
The Selectmen suggested a change to Item 4 under the purpose and some minor edits under
membership.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to adopt the charge for the Economic
Development Advisory Committee, as amended.
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Lions Club July 4 Carnival Approvals
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The Lions Club is sponsoring the annual 4 of July Carnival with Fiesta Shows. They plan to
have a low-level fireworks display on Wednesday, July 2, at 9:30 p.m., which has been approved
by the Fire Chief. They are also hoping to have a laser show on Thursday, July 3, at 9:30 p.m.
The Lions Club is meeting with several Town Departments this week to finalize plans for the
laser show.
The permission to hold the carnival is contingent on following the guidelines discussed at the
March 18, 2008 meeting with the Lions Club, Fiesta Shows and representatives from many town
departments, including:
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Carnival workers are absolutely prohibited from having living/sleeping quarters on the
site;
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Police and DPW presence required on night of arrival to direct carnival onto field using
exit and entrance plan;
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The Lion’s Club shall be responsible for making a $1,000 deposit for a backflow
preventer valve from the DPW;
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On July 6, the softball field lights may remain on until 2:00 a.m. to facilitate the cleanup
of the site;
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No part of the carnival should be set up in the infield portion of the softball field and
baseball field; and
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The carnival will not include a “break a bottle” game.
Permission for the carnival is also contingent on department approval of the laser show.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 9, 2008
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the request of the Lion’s
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Club to hold the July 4 Carnival from Wednesday, July 2, 2008, from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.;
Thursday, July 3, 2008, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Friday, July 4, 2008, from 11:00 a.m. to
11:00 p.m.; Saturday, July 5, 2008, from 1:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; and Sunday, July 6, 2008, from
1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the request of the Lions Club
to have the baseball lights turned on from 10:50 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. from July 2 through July 5
and from 9:30 p.m. on July 6 to 2:00 a.m. on July 7.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve and sign the Request for
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Public Entertainment on Sunday for the July 4 Carnival to be held on Sunday, July 6, 2008.
Rescind Appointment – Human Rights Committee
Because Mr. Hurley is a current member of the Capital Expenditures Committee, he is not
allowed to serve on any other committees.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to rescind the vote to appoint William
Hurley to the Lexington Human Rights Committee, effective immediately
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Reappoint – Keeper of the Lockup and Executive Clerk
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to reappoint Chief Chris Casey as the
Keeper of the Lockup for a one-year term to expire June 30, 2009.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to reappoint Lynne Pease as the
Selectmen’s Executive Clerk for a one-year term to expire June 30, 2009.
Budget Transfers
As part of the negotiated changes in the Town’s employee health insurance program with the
Employee Coalition, it was agreed that the savings would be placed in the Salary Transfer
Account to help fund FY2009 collective bargaining settlements. The schools share is $398,475.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the transfer of $398,475 from
the Salary Transfer Account (line item 8230) to the School Department salary account (account
number 340731-52129).
CPA Grant Agreement – Hancock-Clarke House
The Community Preservation Committee approved $600,000 in funding to help with the
restoration of the Hancock Clarke House and Town Meeting also approved that amount at the
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 9, 2008
2008 Annual Town Meeting. Town Counsel was asked to draft a Grant Agreement relating to
this appropriation from CPA funds.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was vote 4-1 (Kelley opposed) to approve and sign the
Grant Agreement between the Town of Lexington and the Historical Society for the restoration
of the Hancock-Clarke House.
Consent Agenda
Water and Sewer Commitments and Adjustments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the following adjustment:
Adjustments of Water/Sewer Charges for 6/9/08 -$8,758.34
Ratify Poll Vote – Use of Battle Green/Musket Firing – Historical Society
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to ratify a poll vote to allow the
Historical Society to use the Battle Green on Wednesday, June 4, 2008, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30
p.m. to do filming for an orientation film.
Ratify Poll Vote – Shake it for Shelter June 7 – Moved Outside
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to ratify a poll vote to allow Shake It for
Shelter to move their fundraiser outside to the Hayden Lower Field contingent on liquor not
being served after 11:00 p.m. and also having the music stopped at 11:00 p.m.
Use of the Battle Green – Flag Day
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request of the Lexington
Lodge of Elks to use the Battle Green on Monday, June 16, 2008, at 7:00 p.m. for the annual
Flag Day ceremony.
Hangar 24 – HATS Letter
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve HATS sending a letter on
behalf of Lexington to the FAA to comment on the proposed demolition of Hangar 24 at
Hanscom.
Tax Bill Insert – Lexpress Brochure
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve inserting the revised
Lexpress brochure in the next tax bill.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:45 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Lynne A. Pease
Executive Clerk
Selectmen’s Meeting
June 16, 2008
A meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, June 16, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. in the
Selectmen Meeting Room, Town Office Building. Chairman Cohen, Mrs. Krieger, Mr. Kelley,
Mr. Manz and Mr. Burnell; Mr. Valente, Town Manager; and Ms. Pease, Executive Clerk, were
present.
Also Present: All members of the Appropriations Committee (Mr. Michelson arrived at 8:20
p.m.); All members of the School Committee, Dr. Ash, Superintendent of Schools, Robert
Harris, Director of Human Services for Schools, Ms. Dunn, Assistant Superintendent for Finance
and Business; Mr. Addelson, Finance Director/Comptroller, Ms. Vine, Deputy Town Manager,
and Ms. Casey, Human Resources Director.
Sale of Notes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the sale of a $3,514,610 2.25
percent General Obligation Bond Anticipation Note of the Town dated June 24, 2008 and
payable February 24, 2009 (the “Note”), to First Southwest Company at par and accrued interest
plus a premium of $10,436.58; and that the consent to the financial advisor bidding for the Note
as executed prior to the bidding for the Note is hereby confirmed; and that in connection with the
marketing and sale of the Note, the preparation and distribution of a Notice of Sale and
Preliminary Official Statement dated June 10, 2008 and a final Official Statement dated June 12,
2008 each in such form as approved by the Town Treasurer, be and hereby are ratified,
confirmed, approved and adopted; and that the Town Treasurer and the Board of Selectmen be,
and hereby are, authorized to execute and deliver a material events disclosure undertaking in
compliance with SEC Rule 15c2-12 in such form as may be approved by bond counsel to the
Town, which undertaking shall be incorporated by reference in the Note, as applicable, for the
benefit of the holders of the Note from time to time; and that each member of the Board of
Selectmen, the Town Clerk and the Town Treasurer be and hereby are authorized to take any and
all such actions, and executive and deliver such certificates, receipts or other documents as may
be determined by them, or any of them, to be necessary or convenient to carry into effect the
provisions of the foregoing notes.
Executive Session
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it as voted 5-0 by roll call to go into executive session to
discuss contract negotiations, with no intent to return to open session.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 7:40 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Lynne A. Pease
Executive Clerk
Selectmen’s Meeting
June 30, 2008
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, June 30, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. in
the Selectmen Meeting Room, Town Office Building. Chairman Cohen, Mrs. Krieger, Mr.
Kelley, Mr. Manz and Mr. Burnell; Mr. Valente, Town Manager; and Ms. Pease, Executive
Clerk, were present.
Public Comment
Mr. Loturco thanked the Selectmen for the support in constructing the noise barriers on Route
128, the construction of which is expected to begin this week.
Town Manager Report
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The 1 quarter property tax bills were put in the mail today. If residents have any questions or
do not receive the bills within a few days, they should contact the Treasurer’s Office.
Fuel bids were opened for FY2009. Lexington is part of a regional purchasing consortium. Gas
and diesel prices have increased about $1.45 per gallon (gas will be $3.74 and diesel prices will
be higher). The Town will review the FY2009 budget to see if any revisions will be necessary.
The natural gas and electricity costs are still in a 3-year agreement contract that continues
through December 2009.
DPW opened bids for Phase 2 of the center sidewalk project from Michelson’s Shoe Store to
Muzzey Street. The contractor will begin work in July after the Tree Hearing Determinations
have been resolved.
The Public Employment Retirement Administration (PERA) Annual Report shows that over the
last 22 years the Lexington Retirement Board has averaged a 10.7 percent per year return on its
investment and in the last five years it has averaged 13.8 percent per year. This is a volunteer
board that provides a tremendous value to the Town and Lexington in terms of funding the
retirement and pension system. Lexington is blessed to have the talented Retirement Board and
the benefits of the outstanding performance for over 20 years.
Hearings
Grant of Location – NStar – Centre Street/Install Conduit
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition of NStar Electric to
construct, and a location for, a line of conduits and manholes with the necessary wires and cables
therein to be located under the surface of Centre Street – Northeasterly at Pole 91/7,
approximately 185 feet northeast of Reed Street, a distance of about 71 feet + of conduit.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 30, 2008
Grant of Location – NStar – Burroughs Road/Install Conduit
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition of NStar Electric to
construct, and a location for, a line of conduits and manholes with the necessary wires and cables
therein to be located under the surface of Burroughs Road – southwesterly at Pole 400/6
approximately 750 feet + southeast of Thoreau Road, a distance of about 49 feet + of conduit.
Liquor License – Change of Manager for Vinny T’s of Boston
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application for a change of
manager and issue an all alcoholic common victualler liquor license to Vinny T’s Restaurant
Corporation, d/b/a Vinny T’s of Boston, 20 Waltham Street, contingent on receiving a positive
result on the proposed manager’s CORI check.
Mr. Manz would like the Selectmen to think about how the Town can keep track of who is
managing the liquor establishments when liquor is being served and whether they have the
appropriate alcohol awareness training.
Tree Hearings Recommendations
Mr. Pinsonneault, Public Grounds Superintendent and Tree Warden, provided the Selectmen
with recommendations on three tree hearings:
1. Determination on Tree Hearing for the Sidewalk Project between the Alley at Michelson
Shoes Store and the Alley at Cary Library. A hearing was held on June 20, 2008 to discuss
the removal of eight (8) trees in the Town right-of-way in conjunction with the proposed
sidewalk reconstruction project. A certified arborist inspected the trees and determined that
they would most likely fail due to the nature and scope of the proposed construction. The
Tree Warden’s recommendation is to remove the four (4) trees between Michelson’s Shoe
Store and Muzzey Street. He also recommends that the removal of four (4) trees from
Muzzey Street to Cary Library be determined on site. The recommendation is to remove the
trees if they cannot be worked around properly to ensure the tree’s survival and not create a
future hazard. As part of the project, the Lexington Public Works Department will be
required to replant trees in the sidewalk. The replacement trees should be a minimum 3-inch
caliper and be planted in a sufficiently sized tree well and in structural soil to allow for
proper moisture, air movement and root development. The species will be determined at a
later date. Other replacement trees will be required in appropriate planting spaces along
Massachusetts Avenue.
Mr. Hadley, Director of Public Works, is working with Engineering to get conduit installed
to allow for holiday lighting, which was forgotten in the Phase I.
Mr. Frey, Chair of the Tree Committee, stated that the Tree Committee supports the
recommendations of the Tree Warden to remove the eight (8) trees if necessary. The new
trees will be planted in structural soil and have a better chance for surviving a long time.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 30, 2008
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to accept the recommendations of
the Tree Warden for removal/replacement of trees on Massachusetts Avenue between
Michelson’s Shoe Store and the alley at Cary Library, as presented.
2. Determination on the Tree Hearing for the Construction Project at 4 Whitman Circle. A
hearing was held on June 9, 2009 to discuss the removal of six trees in the Town right-of-
way along Whitman Circle as part of a construction project. The Tree Warden inspected the
trees and would concur that they can be removed and allow for new trees to be properly
planted. The builder will pay for the removal of the old trees. The builder will be required to
replant fourteen (14) trees somewhere on the property with at least two (2) trees planted near
the roadway. The replacement trees should be a minimum 3-inch caliper and be properly
planted to ensure long-term survival.
Mr. Tim Lee, Landscape Designer for 4 Whitman, showed the Selectmen the current
conditions and the proposed plan. They plan to comply with placement of the proposed trees
following the Town’s Tree Bylaw.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to accept the recommendations of
the Tree Warden for removal/replacement of trees at 4 Whitman Circle, as presented.
3. Determination on the Tree Hearing for the Roadway/Sidewalk Project on Woburn Street. A
tree hearing was held on June 20, 2008 regarding two (2) trees at 273 Woburn Street and one
(1) tree at 245 Woburn Street to discuss the removal of these trees from the Town right-of-
way in conjunction with the proposed roadway/sidewalk reconstruction project. The
homeowner at 273 Woburn Street requested that the sidewalk layout be moved to try and
save the trees. A certified arborist inspected the trees and determined they would most likely
fail due to the nature and scope of the proposed construction. The Tree Warden recommends
that the Engineering Department work with the two (2) homeowners to try and get an
easement on their property so that the sidewalk can be reoriented to avoid the trees. The
trees would only be removed if they cannot be worked around properly to ensure their
survival and not create a future hazard. As part of the project, the Lexington Public Works
Department will be required to replant trees along Woburn Street. The replacement trees
should be a minimum 3-inch caliper and be planted off berm for proper moisture, air
movement and root development. The Lexington Tree Committee will determine the tree
species at a later date.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to accept the recommendations of
the Tree Warden for removal/replacement of trees at 273 and 245 Woburn Street, as
presented.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 30, 2008
New Website Presentation
The 2020 Budget and Communication Task Force recommended a few years ago that the Town
should look to revamp its website. A staff committee looked at whether the existing site could
be reconstructed, but they learned that the technology has changed and new applications would
be easier to work with. Staff developed an RFP and reviewed a number of proposals. The new
site is currently being created, which will be much easier for all users and will have many new
features.
Ms. McLaughlin, Organizational Development Director, has been working on the new site for
over a year. The plan was to have a simple homepage with the following categories:
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News and events;
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For Residents;
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For Visitors;
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For Business;
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Town Government;
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FAQ (frequently asked questions);
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E-Government;
The content of the new site needs to be completed and tested and the plan is to go live with the
new site in the Fall of 2008.
Mrs. McKenna, Precinct 6, suggested that the minutes of boards and committees be included on
the new webpage. She also asked if the Community Calendar could be its own category so it is
easy for residents to locate. Also, she would like to see the School Committee listed with all the
Town committees and include a link to the School Web Page and the School Committee’s
agenda.
Mrs. McKenna, Tourism Committee, asked that the Tourism Committee be included as a
standing committee. The Committee would like to have a conversation about who will maintain
the celebration and events page. The Committee would like to be involved in the creation of the
Liberty Ride department page. Mrs. McKenna brought to the Board’s attention the fact that
Kerry Brandin has created and maintained the Tourism/Liberty Ride web page for many years;
the Committee was made aware of the progress made on the new Town web site and they were
not comfortable with the visibility of the Tourism/Liberty Ride web page and the way the visitor
page presently works on the new web page. Ms. Brandin is currently working with Ms.
McLaughlin and the Committee hopes all the issues can be worked out.
Tourism Year End Report
Ms. McKenna, Chair of the Tourism Committee, and Ms. Traber, Liberty Ride Coordinator,
came before the Selectmen to present the Tourism Year End Report.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 30, 2008
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The Liberty Ride has completed its 6 year of operations. The ridership has reached over 6,000
for the first time; last year ridership was 5,500. It is expected there will approximately $4,000 in
surplus. This year there was an increase in costs due to the new trolley, which is $80/hour versus
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last year’s bus, which was $60/hr. Also, this is the 1 year that the price of a Liberty Ride ticket
included admission to a historic house, the cost of which came out of the operation budget. Mrs.
McKenna reminded the Selectmen that when the revolving fund was set up the agreement was
that the $17,500 initial payment from the town would be repaid with surpluses; currently $14,726
is owed and when the bottom line for FY2008 has been calculated it will be applied to that debt.
Selectmen asked about whether the current economy is affecting ridership. Ms. Traber said it
has not affected the ridership so far. People are coming from all over the country as well as from
Massachusetts.
Ms. McKenna updated the Selectmen on the status of Liberty Ride trademark. Most of the
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registrations have been completed, including one for the 1 official postcard. There is a
registration extension for hats and t-shirts, which they expect to be completed within a month.
The Tourism Committee is requesting permission and approval to move forward on three
initiatives:
1. To host and organize a reunion of the Antony France Sister City in September of 2008. A
group would visit Antony France for a rededication of the monument and plaza and then
Lexington would invite Antony here. The Toursim Committee has contacted citizens
involved in the 1998 visit to Antony France and there seems to be support of the idea. In
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honor of the 10 anniversary the Town needs to think of something that could be named for
Antony France.
The Selectmen appreciate the Tourism Committees offer to plan the reunion and encourage
them to proceed with plans.
2. To come up with a Master Plan for the Battle Green that would include how to address
lighting, pathways, temporary traffic areas, trees and possibly bringing forward a CPA
request for funds. The Tourism Committee would use the Town Commons Preservation
Initiative report that was done in 2001 and bring together all the stakeholders and bring back
recommendations to the Selectmen for approval.
The Selectmen agreed that a Master Plan for the Battle Green was a great idea. They will
discuss it further, talk to all the stakeholders and then get back to the Tourism Committee.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 30, 2008
To include the Tourism Committee in the Economic Development Department and consider
setting aside a percentage of the new hotel sales tax to do tourism initiatives. Ms. McKenna
gave several examples of why tourism is good business that she received from a Greater
Merrimack Valley Convention & Visitor Bureau (GMVCVB) breakfast held on May 20,
2008. One of the quickest ways to grow tourism is through bus tours, which the Liberty Ride
has been doing 12 months a year and grossed $17,000 in FY 2008; they feel that will
continue to grow. GMVCVB emphasized it is important to not cut your marketing budget
in a recession. The Tourism Committee has put lots of effort in getting people to say in
Lexington; including a survey of Liberty Ride riders.
The Selectmen will take the suggestions under advisement.
HATS Agreement
Garrity and Knisely has provided the Hanscom Area Towns Committee with a proposed scope of
services to enhance the ability of HATS to respond to mission-related issues at Hanscom Air
Force Base. The services would include: research BRAC Law; review current Memorandum of
Agreement; draft proposed modifications to the MOA that would authorize HATS to act in the
role of a planning LRA for Hanscom; draft proposed modifications to the MOA that would
enhance the ability of HATS to take a more active role in coordinating with the Air Force and/or
Commonwealth on activities and initiatives that will increase mission capabilities and
operational efficiencies at Hanscom; consult with officials, as requested and directed, on the 4
towns to discuss positions regarding the potential expansion of HATS’ authority and consult
with town counsel for 4 towns to receive their input and recommendations regarding the
potential expansion of HATS’ authority. The cost to perform these services will not exceed
$8,000 total ($2,000 per town).
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve and go forward with the
proposed scope of services to amend the HATS Agreement and with spending up to $2,000 for
the services of Garrity and Knisely.
128 Corridor Agreement
Mrs. Krieger is seeking approval of a formal agreement between the Towns of Weston, Lincoln
and Lexington and the City of Waltham for a 128 Central Corridor Coalition Memorandum of
Understanding to seek creative ways to ensure corridor mobility, improve capacity for
sustainable economic development and infrastructure that both supports economic development
and respects and protects local roadways and character. The Coalition will seek feasible
measures to address the impacts of development projects’ increased traffic volumes on local and
state roadways, with the thrust to reduce single occupancy trips within the corridor.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve and sign a Memorandum of
Understanding for the 128 Central Corridor Coalition to work on increasing mobility in the 128
Central Corridor.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 30, 2008
Global Warming Resolution Letters
At the 2008 Annual Town Meeting, Article 42, Resolution for Climate Change, was adopted,
which included petitioning the President and Lexington’s Representative and Senators in the
Congress to create a comprehensive national initiative to achieve rapid development of
sustainable energy technologies; and petitioning the Governor of the Commonwealth and
Lexington’s Representatives and Senators in the General Court to enact legislation and
regulations that would significantly and immediately reduce carbon emissions in the
Commonwealth and to create a comprehensive program of incentives for the rapid development
of renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to sign and send a letter to President
Bush and Lexington’s Senators and Representative in Congress petitioning them to create a
comprehensive national initiative to achieve rapid development of sustainable energy
technologies in order to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, reduce greenhouse gases,
stimulate new jobs and investment opportunities and enhance our national security.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to sign and send a letter to Governor
Patrick and Lexington’s Representatives and Senators in the General Court to enact legislation
and regulations that would significantly and immediately reduce carbon emissions in the
Commonwealth and to create a comprehensive program of incentives for the rapid development
of renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Selectmen Liaisons
The Selectmen were provided a list of the Committee Liaison assignments for the coming year.
Selectmen Liaisons are not members of the committees; they should be available to the
committees for issues or problems.
Appointment of Election Officers
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 3-0-2 (Cohen and Burnell abstained) to
appoint the Election Officers for the period beginning September 1, 2008, as shown in the memo
dated June 24, 2008 provided by the Town Clerk.
Appointments/Reappointments/Resignations
Community Preservation Committee
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to appoint Jeanne Krieger to the
Community Preservation Committee to fill the unexpired term of Richard Pagett until June 30,
2009.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 30, 2008
Lexington Human Rights Committee
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to appoint Robert Kent to the Lexington
Human Rights Committee for a term to expire September 30, 2010.
Robert Kent will replace William Hurley who cannot serve on any other committee while he is a
current member of the Capital Expenditures Committee.
Town Celebrations Committee
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to appoint Jerold Michelson to the Town
Celebrations Subcommittee for a one-year term to expire June 30, 2009.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to reappoint Paul Jenkins, Julie Miller,
William Mix, John Rossi and Jim Shaw to the Town Celebrations Subcommittee for a one-year
term to expire June 30, 2008.
Hanscom Field Advisory Commission
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to reappoint Hank Manz as Lexington’s
Representative to the Hanscom Field Advisory Commission for a three-year term to expire June
30, 2011.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to reappoint Michael Barrett to the
Hanscom Field Advisory Commission as Lexington’s Alternate Representative for a three-year
term to expire June 30, 2011.
Tourism Committee
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to appoint John M. Patrick to the
Tourism Committee for a one-year term to expire September 30, 2009.
Lexington Center Committee
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to accept with regret and best wishes the
resignations of Daphne Politis and Elizabeth Harvey from the Lexington Center Committee,
effective immediately.
Town Manager Reappointments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the Town Manager’s
reappointment of Dan Fenn and Shirley Buck to the Council on Aging for a 3-year term to expire
May 31, 2011.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the Town Manager’s
reappointment of Richard Thuma to the Recreation Committee for a 3-year term to expire April
30, 2011.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 30, 2008
Approval of COLA for Non-Union Employees
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the recommended FY2009
COLA adjustments for non-represented employees.
Approve FY2008 Line-Item Salary Transfers
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to transfer from the FY2008 Salary
Transfer Account (line item 8230) to the various FY2008 Departmental salary accounts the
following amounts recommended by the Assistant Town Manager for Finance:
Patrol Wages 10021511-51110 $525,000
Town Manager Wages 10012301-51110 $ 23,000
Human Resources 10015211-51110 $ 4,200
Planning Wages 10017510-51110 $ 4,700
Recreation 70063431-51110 $ 7,200
Total Salary Adjustment $564,120
Support MPO Initiative to Conduct Corridor Study on Routes 4/225
MPO does an annual corridor study and the Traffic Mitigation Group and HATS recommend that
Routes 4/225 and possibly Route 128 be part of the study.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to sign and send a letter supporting the
inclusion of the Route 4/225 Corridor in the MPO “Study Most Congested Corridors in the
Region” and support the inclusion of the Route 128 corridor in the MAGIC Subregion as the
MAPC identified corridor.
Consent Agenda
Water and Sewer Commitments and Adjustments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the following commitments
and adjustments:
Adjustments of Water/Sewer Charges for June 2008 -$2,855.17
Kline Hall Lease
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to sign the Kline Hall Lease between the
Town of Lexington and AvalonBay Communities, Inc. that was reviewed by Anderson &
Krieger.
Letter to SFC Kevin Regan – Flag
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to send a thank you letter to SFC Kevin
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M. Regan of the 151 Regional Support Group for the flag that was sent to the Town from Iraq.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 30, 2008
Minutes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the minutes of May 27, 2008,
June 9, 2008 and June 16, 2008.
Executive Session Minutes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to 5-0 to approve the executive session
minutes of May 27, 2008 and June 16, 2008.
Support Noise Barriers at Robinson, Turning Mill and Partridge Roads
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to send a letter of support for the
proposed Noise Barriers at Robinson, Turning Mill and Partridge Roads.
Executive Session
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 by roll call vote to go into executive
session to discuss a matter of litigation, with no intent to return to open session.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:40 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Lynne A. Pease
Executive Clerk