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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-09-BOS-min Selectmen’s Meeting September 8, 2008 A meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, September 8, 2008, at 6:00 p.m. on the Battle Green. Chairman Cohen, Mrs. Krieger, Mr. Manz; Mr. Valente, Town Manager; and st Ms. Pease, Executive Clerk were present. Also present were members of the 151 Regional Support Group of the National Guard, including Commander William Callahan, Commander Sergeant Major Colleen Dickinson and Sergeant Kevin Regan. Commander Callahan presented back to the Selectmen the Lexington flag, which the Town had sent to them in Iraq as requested because they had called themselves “First Shot”. They presented to the Selectmen a certificate confirming that the soldiers at Victory Base Complex in Baghdad, Iraq flew the flag during Operation Iraqui Freedom, 2007-2008. Also presented was a “Stand Your Ground” framed print. A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, September 8, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. in the Selectmen Meeting Room, Town Office Building. Chairman Cohen, Ms. Krieger, Mr. Manz, Mr. Burnell; Mr. Valente, Town Manager; and Ms. Pease, Executive Clerk, were present. Selectmen Concerns and Liaison Reports Mrs. Krieger thanked the Garden Club for its hard work weeding Depot Square. They do an outstanding job with lots of enthusiasm. Mr. Manz mentioned the Tomato Fest that occurred at the Farmer’s Market last week. He thanked Sonia DeMarta and everyone else involved with the Farmer’s Market. It is a great asset to the Town. Mr. Burnell stated that there would be a public meeting put on by the 2020 Vision Committee and the Economic Development Task Force on Saturday, October 4, to discuss commercial development in Lexington. Mr. Cohen stated that the Battle Green Flag was lowered on Saturday, September 6, 2008, in honor of the passing of Mark Moore. Mr. Moore was an outstanding citizen of Lexington and also was involved with many Town organizations; he also received the White Tricorn Hat in 1997. Town Manager Report Mr. Valente provided a report on the storm that came through Saturday night into Sunday morning, which produced approximately 6 ½ inches of rain. There was some street flooding on Grant Street and a few flooded basements off Winter Street that homeowners were able to control. One tree came down on East Street and there were several limbs down elsewhere around town. Mr. Valente recognize the staff of the Police, Fire and Public Works for their efforts leading up to, during and after the storm. Selectmen’s Meeting – September 8, 2008 As part of the TIF Agreement the Town has with Shire, a $50,000 payment was received for the st Cary Library Memorial Foundation. This is the 1 of five payments of $50,000 that the Town will receive every other year. The Town also received $30,000 to be used at the discretion of the Selectmen. Patriot Partners contacted the Town recently regarding furniture that was available because of a tenant that had moved out. Several different offices were able to pick out some needed furniture, including: Recreation, Cary Hall, Harrington Preschool. The Town thanks Patriot Partners for offering the furniture. LHS Varsity Softball Team Recognition Coach Pagliuca and members of the LHS Varsity Softball Team were at the Selectmen’s Meeting to receive recognition for their hard work and determination and in winning the Division 1 State Championship. The Selectmen read and presented a letter to the Team. Naming – Lexington Swimming Pool Complex With encouragement from many people, Robert Kent requested that the Lexington Swimming Pool Complex be named for Irving H. Mabee. Mr. Mabee was instrumental in getting the complex constructed beginning in 1978. He also became a member of the Permanent Building Committee and oversaw the construction and completion of the complex before his passing in 1983. The Recreation Committee has approved the request to name the Swimming Pool Complex. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve the naming of the Lexington Swimming Pool Complex in honor of Irving H. Mabee. Street Performer Policy Mr. Valente presented a proposed Street Performer Policy, application and permit that was put together with the help of Town Counsel. Section 76-3 of the Code of the Town of Lexington says the Board of Selectmen must license street performers. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve the Street Performer Policy and set the application fee at $25.00. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to delegate the application process to the Town Manager’s Office. Selectmen’s Meeting – September 8, 2008 Consent Agenda Adjustments of Water and Sewer Charges Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve the following water and sewer adjustments: Adjustment of Water/Sewer Charges for September 2008 $7,024.00 Ratify Poll Vote – Use of Battle Green – Lexington Minute Men Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to ratify a poll vote allowing the Lexington Minute Men to use the Battle Green on Saturday, September 27, 2008, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Approval of Veteran’s Day Parade and Ceremonies Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve the request of the Town Celebrations Committee to hold the Veteran’s Day parade on Tuesday, November 11, 2008, beginning at 10:00 p.m. marching on the westerly side of Massachusetts Avenue from the Old School Administration Building to Bedford Street to Harrington Road to the Battle Green. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve the request of the Town Celebrations Committee to use the Battle Green for the annual Veteran’s Day ceremonies on Tuesday, November 11, 2008, for approximately 1 hour beginning at 10:30 a.m. One-Day Liquor License – LHS Girls Soccer Booster Club Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve and sign a one-day liquor license to sell beer and wine for the LHS Girls Soccer Booster Club “Soccer Hop” benefit dance with silent auction to be held at the Depot Building, 13 Depot Square on Friday, September 19, 2008, from 7:30 p.m. to 12:00 midnight. th Use of the Battle Green – 6 Annual Masonic Learning Center Walk Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve the request of the Masonic Learning Center for Children to hold the sixth annual Battle Green Walk on the Battle Green on Sunday, October 19, 2008 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. Boy Scout Eagle Letter – Aditya Kanesa-thasan Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to send a letter to Aditya Kanesa-thasan congratulating him on attaining the highest rank of Eagle in Boy Scouting. One-Day Liquor License – Lexington Players Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve and sign a one-day liquor license to sell beer and wine for The Lexington Players Halloween Party fundraiser to be held at the Depot Building, 13 Depot Square, on Saturday, October 25, 2008, from 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight. Selectmen’s Meeting – September 8, 2008 Approve Bench Location – 301 Massachusetts Avenue Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve a bench location at 301 Massachusetts Avenue (Enterprise Rent-a-Car). Approve Sandwich Board on Bikeway – Rising Star Quilters Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to allow Rising Star Quilters to place a sandwich board on the Bike Path one week before the event to be held on Saturday and Sunday, October 4 and 5, 2008. Minutes Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve the minutes of August 11, 2008. Executive Session Minutes Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve the executive session minutes of August 11, 2008. Acceptance of Release Deed – Schumacher Land Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve, accept and sign the Release Deed for a gift of land (Map 51, Lot 84) in accordance with Article 46 of the 2008 Annual Town Meeting. Appointment of Assistant Managers - Vinebrook Bottle Shop Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve Jennifer Brogan, Andrew Busa and Hilary Puglia as Assistant Managers selling liquor at the Vinebrook Bottle Shop, 131 Massachusetts Avenue. Flammable Storage License – Cubist Pharmaceuticals, 65 Hayden Avenue Steve Lewis, Director of Facilities at Cubist Pharmaceuticals, and John Isenberg, Fire Protection Engineer for Rolf Jensen and Associates, request approval of a flammable storage license for 65 Hayden Avenue. Cubist currently has a permit for flammable storage, but needs a license due to the increase in the amount of flammables they will be storing. Cubist will be creating four (4) st Fire-Rated Control Areas on the 1 floor. These areas are separated by 1-hour fire resistance rate of construction to contain any fire. They are also creating a High Hazardous Storage Room with a 4-hour fire resistance rate where they plan to store as much of the flammables as possible. rdst They will also be relocating labs from the 3 floor to the 1 floor to make it easier for the Fire Department to respond if necessary. Chief Middlemiss’ staff reviewed and worked with Cubist on their plans and request the following items be included as conditions on approval of the license: Selectmen’s Meeting – September 8, 2008 ?? Store and use no more than 3,120 gallons of Class I flammable liquids, 1,200 pounds of flammable solids and 21,000 cubic feet of flammable gas; ?? Quantities of Class I flammable liquids, flammable solids and flammable gases shall be limited to each Control Area as shown on the attached floor plans; ?? Inventories and Materials Safety Data Sheets shall be readily available for fire department use in an emergency; ?? Flammable liquids shall be stored in flammable liquids storage cabinets or waste storage rooms. Only those amounts necessary for daily use shall be allowed out of storage areas. At the end of each day all flammable liquids shall be stored as stipulated. ?? Flammable solids shall be stored and handled in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations; ?? Flammable gas cylinders shall be secured from tipping; ?? Incompatible materials shall be segregated to prevent accidental contact with one another; ?? At least one portable fire extinguisher having a rating of not less than 40-B:C shall be located outside of, but not more than 6 feet from the door opening into, any interior storage room; and ?? At least one portable fire extinguisher having a rating of not less than 20-B:C shall be located not less than 10 feet, nor more than 25 feet, from any flammable liquid storage area located outside of an interior storage room but inside the building. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve a Flammable Storage License for Cubist Pharmaceuticals for the aboveground storage, operation and maintenance of up to 3,120 gallons of Class I flammable liquids, 1,200 pounds of flammable solids and 21,000 cubic feet of flammable gases at 65 Hayden Avenue, with the conditions stipulated by the Fire Chief. Communications Advisory Committee – LexMedia Performance Evaluation and Contract Extension Jim Gonzalez, member of the Communications Advisory Committee (CAC), presented the rd Committee’s 3 review of LexMedia’s performance and reported that improvements continue to be made. The evaluation covers the period from October 1, 2007 to September 30, 2008. The report states that LexMedia has made progress on all issues identified in the 2007 evaluation and the CAC recommends that LexMedia now give priority to implementing plans for fundraising and enhanced programming. The CAC also voted in favor of an extension to the contract and the increases in funding. Florence DelSanto, LexMedia Director, is thankful for the support. LexMedia is working on outreach and fundraising now. Mrs. Krieger is hoping that LexMedia will be able to televise more government programs. Ms. DelSanto will try to increase government programming as she finds additional volunteers. Selectmen’s Meeting – September 8, 2008 Mr. Manz would like to see a more streamlined complaint process between the Selectmen, CAC and LexMedia. th The CAC recommended extending the LexMedia contract for a 4 year. The original contract st was for 3-years with the option for 2 additional one-year renewals. This would be 1 one-year renewal. The recommended proposal is to approve $240,000 for operating expenses and $100,000 for PEG/capital equipment and other expenses for a total of $340,000. The accounts have been reviewed and there are sufficient revenues to fund LexMedia’s next year of operation. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to authorize the Town Manager to sign Amendment 2 extending the LexMedia contract to operate public access TV in Lexington for twelve months, to conclude on September 30, 2009 with an operating budget of $240,000 and $100,000 for PEG/capital equipment and other expenses related to equipment for the Kline hall facility. Bicycle Advisory Committee – Bikeway Plowing Mr. Kennedy, Chair of the Bicycle Advisory Committee (BAC), came before the Selectmen to recommend that the bikeway be plowed in the winter from the Arlington line to Westview Street, the last intersection before Bedford after every snowstorm of 2 or more issues. The BAC recommends using a small truck-sized plow, removing the bollards and propping the gates open before the first snow, not applying salt because of wetlands and reviewing plan with the Conservation Commission. The BAC would monitor costs and usage. They estimate the cost would be approximately $3,300 to plow and an additional $1,300 to sand. They believe the liability would not increase if the bikeway was plowed and the benefits would be the greater number of people able to use the bikeway in the winter. Mr. Kennedy read a letter from three members of the Arlington Board of Selectmen stating their success in the pilot snow plowing effort on the Bikeway in Arlington, concerns that were addressed during the pilot effort and encouraging Lexington to plow its part of the Bikeway. Mrs. Krieger and Mr. Manz received input from several residents favoring plowing the bikeway in the winter. Reasons included: exercise, safe routes to school, commuter use and expand usefulness of bikeway. Mr. Marinelli, Arlington resident, found that the bikeway primarily became a pedestrian walkway in winter with a few bikers. Mr. Valente and staff from the police and public works met and reviewed the proposal with Mr. Kennedy. The staff’s primary concerns are safety and cost. Lexington has 14 crossings, some of which are at busy intersections. If the bollards and gates were removed there would be a question of who has the right of way. The cost to plow the bikeway was not built into the FY2009 budget. Any extra money first needs to be used for energy related costs because of Selectmen’s Meeting – September 8, 2008 increased fuel costs. The Board of Selectmen needs to decide where plowing the bikeway falls into its snow removal priorities. The staff asked the BAC to provide additional information, which will be reviewed by staff and then they will bring a recommendation to the Selectmen. Bicycle Advisory Committee – Bikeway Celebration Mr. Kennedy, Chair of the Bicycle Advisory Committee, requested permission to use the Bikeway to celebrate the induction of the Minuteman Bikeway into the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame on Sunday, October 5, 2008, from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. The BAC is still working out the details and will send finalized plans for approval. FY2009 Water and Sewer Rates Mr. Addelson, Assistant Town Manager of Finance, reviewed the results of the FY2008 water and sewer operations and retained earnings history. The present water/sewer budget that was adopted at the 2008 Annual Town Meeting will serve as the basis for calculating the FY2009 water and sewer rates. Increasing MWRA rates and debt service related to the new DPW facility will drive cost increases for FY2009. Mr. Addelson will present a water and sewer rate proposal to the Selectmen at the September 15 meeting. At the October 6 meeting the public will have an opportunity to comment on the proposed rates prior to the Selectmen voting on the FY2009 water and sewer rates. Proposal for Human Services Department Ms. Vine, Assistant Town Manager, presented a reorganization plan for a Department of Human Services that includes Senior Services, Family Services and Youth Services. Council on Aging, Youth Commission, Police, School and Recreations departments were all involved in the discussions. The first tier includes a Human Services Director and the second tier includes a Human and Family Service Assistant Director, a Senior Services Assistant Director and a Youth Services Assistant Director; all will provide similar services. One of those positions will be a licensed clinical social worker so that they can recruit and supervise interns. Also two part-time positions will be added: Senior Center Coordinator and Youth Services Coordinator. The other positions will remain the same as they currently are. This new plan can be funded this year, but will add $25,000 to next year’s budget. The Selectmen will vote on the finalized reorganization plan at its next meeting. Annual Appointments/Reappointments/Resignations Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve the following appointments/reappointments/resignations: 2020 Vision Committee Reappoint Peter Enrich and Ann Redmon to the 2020 Vision Committee for 3-year terms to expire September 30, 2011. Selectmen’s Meeting – September 8, 2008 Board of Appeals Reappoint Carolyn Wilson to the Board of Appeals for a 5-year term to expire September 30, 2013. Board of Appeals Associates Reappoint John T. Gilbert, Jill Hai, Leo P. McSweeney, David G. Williams and Martha C. Woods to the Board of Appeals as Associate Members for 1-year terms to expire September 30, 2009. Climate Action Plan Ad Hoc Committee Accept the resignations of John J. Krawczyk and Linda F. Moran from the Climate Action Plan Ad Hoc Committee, effective immediately. Condo Conversion Board Reappoint Jacquelyn Hawkinson, John J. McWeeney and Albert Zabin to the Condo Conversion Board for 3-year terms to expire September 30, 2011. Fence Viewers Reappoint David J. Buczkowski, William B. Simmons and Robert D. Warshawer as Fence Viewers for 1-year terms to expire September 30, 2009. Gammel Legacy Trust Reappoint Lillian MacArthur and Jacquelyn H. Ward to the Gammel Legacy Trust for 1-year terms to expire September 30, 2008. Lexington Scholarship & Education Fund Board Reappoint Paul Ash, Janine Cohen, Thomas O. Fenn, John Miller, and David Williams to the Lexington Scholarship & Education Fund Board for 1-year terms to expire September 30, 2009. Lexington Bicycle Advisory Committee Reappoint Margaret S. Enders, George Galiardi, and Marita Hartshorn to the Lexington Bicycle Advisory Committee for 3-year terms to expire September 30, 2011. Accept the resignation of Harvey Bingham from the Lexington Bicycle Advisory Committee, effective immediately. Lexington Center Committee Accept the resignations of Gant Redmon, Joan Zahka and Jerome M. Smith from the Lexington Center Committee, effective immediately. Appoint Jeff Lyon to the Lexington Center Committee to fill the unexpired term of Jerome Smith to expire September 30, 2010. Selectmen’s Meeting – September 8, 2008 Appoint Pamela Lyons to the Lexington Center Committee to fill the unexpired term of Elisabeth Harvey until September 30, 2009. Appoint Pamela Shadley to the Lexington Center Committee to fill the unexpired term of Gant Redmon until September 30, 2009. Lexington Council for the Arts Reappoint Jonathan C. Cue and Zoe Perry Wood to the Lexington Council for the Arts for 3-year terms to expire September 30 2011. Noise Advisory Committee Reappoint Anthony G. Galaitsis, Jeanne K. Krieger and Martha Wood to the Noise Advisory Committee for 3-year terms to expire September 30, 2011. Appoint Steve Kropper and Robert Earsy to the Noise Advisory Committee for 2-year terms to expire September 30, 2010. These appointments are two 2-years to keep the entire Committee’s terms staggered. Personnel Advisory Board Reappoint Evelyn Silber to the Personnel Advisory Board for a 3-year term to expire September 30, 2011. Police Manual Policy Committee Reappoint Chief Chris Casey, Cleveland M. Coats, Edith E. Flynn, William C. Hays and Gerald McLeod to the Police Manual Policy Committee for 1-year terms to expire September 30, 2009. Sidewalk Committee Reappoint John L. Davies and Jerrold Van Hook to the Sidewalk Committee for 1-year terms to expire September 30, 2009. Reappoint Suzanne Ellen Briggs, Lucinda J. Fletcher-Jones and Francine Stieglitz to the Sidewalk Committee for 2-year terms to expire September 30, 2010. Reappoint Sarah Chamberlain and Judith A. Crocker to the Sidewalk Committee for 3-year terms to expire September 30, 2011. Tax Deferral and Exemption Study Committee Accept the resignation of Thomas G. Taylor from the Tax Deferral and Exemption Study Committee, effective immediately. Traffic Safety Advisory Committee Reappoint Stephen Ades, Martha Batten, David Cannon, Steve Frymer, Sudhir Murthy, Charles Sargent, Stefan Schatzki and Gail Wagner to the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for 1-year terms to expire September 30, 2009. Selectmen’s Meeting – September 8, 2008 Transportation Advisory Committee Reappoint Elaine Dratch and Francine Stiegliz to the Transportation Advisory Committee for 3- year terms to expire September 30, 2011. Appoint Donald M. Graham as a lifetime honorary member of the Transportation Advisory Committee, effective immediately. Tree Committee Reappoint John W. Frey, Gerald Paul and Anne Senning to the Tree Committee for 3-year terms to expire September 30, 2011. Trustees of Public Trusts Reappoint David Williams to the Trustees of Public Trusts for a 6-year term to expire September 30, 2014. Water and Sewer Abatement Board Reappoint Maria Constantinides to the Water and Sewer Abatement Board for a 3-year term to expire September 30, 2011. Youth Sports Council (Recreation Committee) The Selectmen recommend Hank Manz be the liaison to this committee. Executive Session Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted by roll call vote 4-0 to go into executive session for a matter of litigation, with no intent to return to open session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:45 p.m. A true record; Attest: Lynne A. Pease Executive Clerk Selectmen’s Meeting September 15, 2008 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, September 15, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. in the Selectmen Meeting Room, Town Office Building. Chairman Cohen, Ms. Krieger, Mr. Kelley, Mr. Manz, Mr. Burnell; Mr. Valente, Town Manager; and Ms. Pease, Executive Clerk, were present. Selectmen Concerns and Liaison Reports The Selectmen expressed on behalf of the Town their sincere sympathy for the family of Gena Brown, who died in a house fire over the weekend. Everyone’s thoughts are with the family. They also thanked the fire and police for their efforts. Mrs. Krieger wanted the public to know about a report that was produced over the summer by nd interns working for the Tree Committee. This is the 2 year the Tree Committee received grants that allowed them to hire interns to work on the tree inventory. At this point 40% of the town’s trees have been inventoried. The interns, in conjunction with the Tree Committee, have looked at the condition of street tree beginning in the center and radiating out. In addition to a database the report includes a series of maps showing where trees are and recommendations for future tree plantings. With the appropriation from Town Meeting for street trees, there will now be an opportunity to plant new trees this fall or next spring. This is a fine example of how volunteers work to supplement town resources and is of great benefit. Town Manager Report Mr. Valente reported that there was a substantial water main break on Hartwell Avenue over the weekend. Emergency crews fixed the break, but reconstruction of the roadway will not be done until September 23. The Town will place signage on Bedford Street and at the jug handle at Hartwell Avenue and Bedford Street; also asked MassHighway to put a message on the Route 128 message board to alert drivers to seek alternate routes. Grants of Location National Grid – Castle Road – Install Gas Main Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the petition of the National Grid to install and maintain approximately 75 feet of 4” gas main in Castle Road, from the existing 4” gas main in Franklin Road Northerly to house No. 5. Verizon – North Street – Install Conduit Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the petition of Verizon 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 North Street northwesterly at Pole 70/26 a distance of about 28 feet + of conduit. Selectmen’s Meeting – September 15, 2008 Verizon New England, Inc. – Somerset Road – Install Conduit Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the petition of Verizon to construct, and a location for a line of conduits and manholes with the necessary wires and cables therein to be located at Somerset Road northerly at Pole 97/13, a distance of about 26 feet + of conduit. Economic Development Task Force – Final Report Ms. Garberg and Mr. Zurlo, Co-Chairs of the Economic Development Task Force, presented the final report of the task force. They focused on the larger commercial areas of Hartwell Avenue, Forbes Road and Hayden Avenue/Spring Street. The Task Force recommends the Town put in place policies to encourage the growth of its commercial tax base by approximately $1 million per year over 10 years in tandem with proper mitigation. Supporting recommendations, working with the Planning Board, include revising zoning and permitting, developing transportation management strategies, considering sustainability and energy conservation measures and creating an Economic Development Advisory Committee. The 2020 Vision Committee, and hopefully the Town Meeting Members Association, will be co- sponsoring a community event on October 4 to talk more about the Economic Development Task Force recommendations. Mrs. McKenna, Chair of the Tourism Committee, appreciates the work of the task force, but reiterated her concern that the focus on redevelopment and adding commercial space misses the importance of the tourism portion of economic development opportunities. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to accept the Final Report of the Lexington 2020 Vision Economic Development Task Force dated August 22, 2008. Hartwell Avenue Discussion with Planning Board Mr. Hornig, Chair of the Planning Board, discussed with the Selectmen what they have been doing since the Spring 2008 Annual Town Meeting. The Planning Board is focusing its efforts for this year’s Town Meeting on increasing Commercial development on Hartwell Avenue. They have held outreach events, walked the entire stretch of Hartwell Avenue and done a lot of reading of documents, including the 2020 report. They are now ready to begin making decisions about what to go forward with. They wanted to discuss with the Selectmen the issue of how to fund any needed infrastructure improvements to support the more intense commercial development. They identified four possible funding possibilities: 1) state money; 2) town; 3) commercial landowners on Hartwell, either all owners or those increasing development; and 4) betterments. It will be the Selectmen’s decision how to finance what infrastructure is needed after the Planning Board brings forward some warrant articles relating to zoning changes. Selectmen’s Meeting – September 15, 2008 Mr. Burnell feels it is critical to look to the future and what will be the right thing 10 to 20 years from now. There should be state funding involved before any needed infrastructure work on Bedford Street is undertaken. Mr. Kelley feels Lexington offers a lot of value to commercial developers and that the Town should encourage and work with them to move through the commercial development process for added value. Mr. Zurlo pointed out that current zoning and the CD process are limitations for development in the area. The unpredictability of the CD process during town meeting is the big trip wire for developers. Mr. Rosenberg, Town Meeting Member from Precinct 4, wants to make sure the Selectmen do not take tax increases out of possible funding options. It would be helpful to know what incentives will be available to developers and to get input from experts for financing options to help encourage a financing solution. Water and Sewer Rates Mr. Addelson, Assistant Town Manager for Finance, presented the recommended FY2009 water and sewer rates. The recommendation is to increase a combined water and sewer rate between 2.7 and 3 percent, depending on usage and to use approximately $363,000 of water enterprise fund retained earnings. Individually, the proposed rates provide a 9.5 percent increase in water rates and no change in sewer rates. The increase in water rates will apply equally to all blocks. The municipal rate will increase by 10 percent for both water and sewer, consistent with the recommendation of the former Water and Sewer Rate Study Committee. Mr. Bartenstein reviewed the water and sewer rate information and suggests that the Town now has three years of experience that are very reliable. He urged the Selectmen to develop a Reserve Policy. On October 6 selectmen will receive public comment on the water and sewer rates for FY2008 and vote on new rates. Human Services Department – Recommended Reorganization Plan Ms. Vine presented the Human Services Department reorganization plan. The process included dialogue with the Human Services Committee, COA Board, Police, Recreation, Youth Services Council and the School Department. Outstanding issues include: that the Senior Center Coordinator position is now a part-time position and that it will not be enough hours and that senior programs will not be robust enough; 2) recommending that the Nursing Coordinator be a vendor relationship because we just hired a Public Health Nurse and want time to work out an arrangement with Board of Health and get a better sense of what the three social workers work load will be and if they can pick up work of the nurse; 3) COA would like an evaluation done Selectmen’s Meeting – September 15, 2008 within 6 months and the recommendation is to do a review after a year. The reorganization plan will require an additional $25,000 for the FY2010 budget. The plan is to start advertising immediately and hopefully staff the new positions by January 1, 2009. The Human Services Committee and the Council on Aging will be included in the hiring process. Ms. Cohen, Chair of the Council on Aging Board, asked that the Selectmen not approve the plan until the concerns of the Council on Aging had been answered. Their concerns include: 1) that the evaluation should be done after 6 months, or compromise after 9 months; 2) the reduction to part time for the Senior Center Coordinator is critical; 3) the Nurse coordination needs to be evaluated in 6 months; 4) how will resources be allocated between the three divisions. They would like to see data showing responsibilities of each division and whether the School Department will be providing any resources; and 5) where will all the new positions be situated. The Selectmen feel it is important to approve the reorganization plan and move forward. All of the concerns raised will be considered and the Town Manager’s office has committed to including the Human Services Department and the Council on Aging Board in the process. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the Town Manager’s reorganization plan for a Department of Human Services. Continue Goal Setting Discussion Selectmen will review the policies and goals that were discussed at the goal setting meeting in July and decide which items they are interested in working on. The Town Manager will provide a final document at the next meeting. Class II License – Lexington Associates, Inc. Mr. Burnell had questions regarding a Class II license and the requirement to have a licensed repair facility and where vehicles would be stored. The Selectmen will clarify the rules for a Class II license prior to the renewal process. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-1 (Burnell opposed) to approve the application and issue a Class II license for Lexington Associates, Inc., 124 Lowell Street, with the condition that no vehicles be stored on the premises. Annual Appointments/Reappointments/Resignations Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the following appointments/reappointments/resignations: Housing Partnership Board Reappoint Jeri Foutter, Thomas Harden, Chris Kluchman, Winifred McGowan and Betsey Weiss to the Housing Partnership Board for 3-year terms to expire September 30, 2011. Selectmen’s Meeting – September 15, 2008 Human Services Committee Reappoint Barbara Ciampa and Herbert Wasserman to the Human Services Committee for a 3- year term to expire September 30, 2011. Lexington Bicycle Advisory Committee Appoint Laurel Carpenter to the Lexington Bicycle Advisory Committee to fill the unexpired term of Harvey Bingham until September 30, 2009. Tax Deferral and Exemption Study Committee Appoint Annie C. McQuilken to the Tax Deferral and Exemption Study Committee. Tourism Committee Reappoint Susan Bennett, Kerry Brandin, Bernice Fallick, Carla Fortmann, Dawn McKenna, John Ott and Lou Sideris to the Tourism Committee for one-year terms to expire September 30, 2009. Use of Bikeway – Bicycle Advisory Committee The Lexington Bicycle Advisory Committee has submitted a request to use the Bikeway on Sunday, October 5, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for a celebration as part of the Rails to Trails Conservancy’s induction of the Minuteman Bikeway into the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the requests of the Lexington Bicycle Advisory Committee to use the bikeway as follows: 1) to put lawn signs along the Bikeway at several locations two weekends before the event and during the weekdays the week before the event; 2: to have organized bike rides for children on the bikeway; 3) on day of event to put a lawn sign and two arrow signs on the Bikeway nearest the Visitor Center; and 4) to put an information table on the bikeway near Waldorf School. 128 Central Coalition – Legal Fees Mrs. Krieger is requesting approval for up to $4,000 of legal fees for the 128 Central Coalition to work together to look at mobility on Route 128 between the Mass. Pike and Route 93 that could with the proposed developments, bring as much as 100,000 new trips onto Route 128. The Towns of Lexington, Lincoln, Weston, Burlington and the City of Waltham have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding and come together to work on the following objectives: encourage the use of alternate transportation modes, encourage the development of transportation choices, strengthen the regulatory process to consider the total and accumulated environmental impacts of developments and improve traffic flow on Route 128 while decreasing the use of local roads. Contributing up to $4,000 annually will help with the research and writing the necessary bylaws and guidelines. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve up to $4,000 annually for legal services for the work of the 128 Central Coalition. Selectmen’s Meeting – September 15, 2008 Consent Agenda Lexington Minute Men Change of Command March Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the Lexington Minute Men request to march on Saturday, September 27, 2008, beginning at approximately 2:30 p.m. from St. Brigid’s on Mass. Avenue to Harrington Street onto the Battle Green and then at approximately 4:30 p.m. leave the Battle Green and march across Bedford Street to the Depot Building. Proclaim October 8, 2008 as International Walk to School Day Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to proclaim Wednesday, October 8, 2008, as “Lexington’s Safe Routes to School International Walk Day”. Michelson’s Shoes – Use of Loading/Handicap Area in Rear Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve Michelson’s Shoes request to use the 20' x 30' loading/handicap area in the Muzzey/Waltham Street parking area at the rear of Michelson's Shoes to help celebrate Hush Puppies 50th Anniversary on Saturday, September 20, 2008, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with the condition that Michelson’s Shoes designate two handicap spaces. Approve Gift of Land – Arcola Street Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to accept a gift of land, by Deed to the Town of Lexington, for the conveyance of the real property owned by Graydon and Iris Wheaton shown as Lot 59 of Assessor’s Property Map 29 and as described in the deed dated June 27, 1961, recorded in the Middlesex South District Registry of Deeds at Book 9835, Page 371; and further to authorize the Town Manager to take any actions or to executive any documents that are necessary, in the Town Manager’s discretion, to complete the acceptance of the gift of property. Town Meeting accepted the gift by vote under Article 47 of the warrant for the 2008 Annual Town Meeting. Executive Session Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted by roll call vote 5-0 to go into executive session for a matter of litigation and potential land use, with no intent to return to open session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:50 p.m. A true record; Attest: Lynne A. Pease Executive Clerk