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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-12-BOS-minSelectmen's Meeting December 1, 2003 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday December 1, 2003 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room at 7:30 p.m. Chairman McSweeney, Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Kelley, Mr. White, Town Manager, Mr. Lahey, Town Counsel, and Ms. Tap, Recording Secretary, were present. Public Comment Two residents spoke of their concern about the budget cuts. Mr. McSweeney invited them to attend all public sessions, where they will be heard. Mr. Alan Lazarus, Precinct 6, noted the poor condition of roadway line painting. He also noted that the sound system is not adequate. The sound on telecasts of the meetings is barely audible. Mr. McSweeney expressed the Board's congratulations to the Chamber of Commerce and the Holiday Lighting Committee on the success of the holiday lighting of Lexington Center. He also thanked some of the many volunteers: the Department of Public Works, the Lexington Historical Society, Foti Tree Service, John Esserian (Homes Realty Trust), Keegan's Landscaping and the Lexington High School Hockey team, John Carroll, Doran's Greenhouse, Laura Cole, Beverly Kelley, Bob Bernard, Hank Manz and Boy Scout Troop 160, and others. Consent Agenda Acceptance of the Norman P. Cohen Scholarship Fund Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the terms for the Norman P. Cohen Scholarship Fund set forth in a letter from David G. Williams to Mr. Fields, Chairman of the Trustees of the Public Trusts, dated November 3, 2002. Acceptance of the Virginia and Edward Williams Scholarship Fund Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the terms for the Virginia and Edward Williams Scholarship Fund set forth in a letter from David G. Williams to Mr. Fields, Chairman of the Trustees of the Public Trusts, dated December 2, 2002. Acceptance of the Accept Provisions of Pension Holiday Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the provisions of Section 128 of Chapter 46 of the Acts of 2003. 2004 Warrant Opening and Closing Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to open the warrant for the 2004 Annual Town Meeting and to set the date for closing the Warrant on Monday, December 29, 2003, at 4:30 p.m. Selectmen's Meeting — December 1, 2003 Ratify Poll Vote for Package Store Sunday Openings Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to ratify a poll vote allowing package Stores to remain open on Sundays between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day from 12:00 noon to 11:00 P.M. Restaurants — New Year's Eve Hours Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve any requests by restaurants to serve alcohol until 1:00 a.m. on New Year's Day subject to the Town Manager's granting such permission if he and the Police Chief agree. Traffic Safety Advisory Committee - Minutes and Recommendations "Go Slow Children" Sianaue on White Pine Lane Traffic Safety Advisory Committee does not believe any signage would make it safe for children playing in the street. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee that no additional signage be put on White Pine Lane. " Blind Driveway Sign" on Whipple Road Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee to install a blind driveway sign at #25 Whipple Road, and that it should be attached to an existing pole. "No Right Turn" sign at Lowell and Woburn Streets Mr. Zanin asked that this item, signs at Lowell and Woburn Streets, be continued to a future meeting so the impact of the No Turn On Red regulation on traffic flow could be evaluated. The Selectmen concurred. Address Dangerous Intersection At Hancock Street And Coolidge Avenue The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee wants to place road tubes and continue the meeting pending analysis of accident data. Mr. Zanin asked that the Board address the dangerous intersection at Hancock Street and Coolidge Avenue, where a number of accidents have happened and where people have difficulty crossing Hancock Street. The Selectmen continued this request to a future meeting. Crosswalk on Worthen Road at the Skate Park Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee to paint a crosswalk on Worthen Road at the Skate Park to serve the facility. "No Parking" sign in front of 394 Lowell Street Parking in front of 394 Lowell Street obstructs sight lines for vehicles exiting the drive at #394. Selectmen's Meeting — December 1, 2003 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee to install a "No Parking" sign in front of 394 Lowell Street. Speed Humps and crosswalk on Peacock Farm Road Residents describe Peacock Farm Road as a cut through from Route 2 to Mass. Avenue, bringing a significant volume of speeding traffic, endangering children crossing the street to the neighborhood pool and the playground. There is no sidewalk. Property damage has occurred as well. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee to install speed humps but to paint only one crosswalk on Peacock Farm Road. Moving the school -bus stop to a potentially safer location at the proposed crosswalk and pool entrance will be investigated. "Caution Children" sign on Larchmont Lane Larchmont Lane is a cut - through for motorists avoiding the light at Bedford and Revere Streets. It is narrow with no sidewalks. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee's to replace the "Caution Children" sign on Larchmont Lane and added that a crosswalk should be painted on Revere Street at Larchmont. Remove Green Light Trip from Brookside Avenue A resident requested that a pedestrian light be installed at Brookside Avenue at Waltham Street and the trip for a green light for vehicular traffic from Brookside Road, purportedly to improve traffic flow there. The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee believes the trip is necessary due to the traffic associated with Clarke Middle School and facilities. The committee considered limiting the timing of the Waltham Street red light but believed it would be difficult to determine in advance all the school and facility functions. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee to keep the "Green Light Trip" on the traffic light at Brookside Avenue and Waltham Street, as there is no need to change the status quo based on vehicle traffic exiting Brookside Road. NO TURN ON RED Regulation at Waltham Street and Worthen Road This intersection receives a high amount of pedestrian and vehicular use due to its proximity to Lexington High School. Right turns on red conflict with the WALK light. Despite the effects of the No Turn On Red regulation on vehicular traffic, the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee believed it was more important to provide an exclusive pedestrian phase at this intersection. Selectmen's Meeting — December 1, 2003 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee to erect "No Turn On Red" signs at Worthen Road (eastbound) and in addition to install a "No Turn On Red" sign at Waltham Street and on Waltham Street (southbound) at Worthen Road as the conditions for a pedestrian are also hazardous. Tax Classification Hearing Board of Assessors Chair Bill Jackson, member Steve Foster and Assessor Joe Nugent were present to review the property tax classification options available under M.G.L. Chapter 40, Section 56 in order for the Board of Selectmen to select a residential factor, after which the tax rate for residential, commercial and industrial properties will be set. Mr. Jackson noted that the Board is currently seeking a third member. Mr. Jackson provided some background exhibits: Exhibit A showing an 8.4% increase in the tax levy in 2004 over that in 2003; Exhibit B, a historical levy summary in which Mr. Jackson pointed out the increase in value of both residential and CIP property; Exhibit C detailed average residential single - family tax bills since 1987; a comparison of tax rates in similar commercial communities; and a table from the MA Department of Revenue that shows that Lexington ranked 14 of the 351 communities in the state, in total assessed value in 2003. Mrs. McKenna noted that Acton found that a flat tax rate brought businesses to the town. Mr. Larry Smith, Cranberry Hill Association, stated that businesses have been hit very hard and the split tax rate is unfair, making it hard to negotiate with tenants. Mr. Jackson indicated that the Assessors worked with the staff, toured commercial properties and looked at them on a case -by -case basis this fall. Most will not see an increase in their tax bill. Mr. Kelley urged the Town Manager to put an explanation about the tax rate in with the tax bills. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to set the residential factor at 1.7. Hopkinton Bill - Assessor Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to reject the "Hopkinton Bill ". Conservation Land Acquisition Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the Conservation Commission purchase of Lot D on Valleyfield Street from Kathleen H. Blanning, David A. Hamilton and William S. Hamilton (Map 24, Lot 31) expending funds from the conservation fund account for $5,000. Selectmen's Meeting — December 1, 2003 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the gift of conservation land on Hartwell Avenue, Map 80, Parcel 3 from David Gompers. Tree Manual Draft Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the publishing of the final Tree Manual by December 19, 2003 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve funds to cover printing of the draft copies and the printer's artwork preparation (approximately $600.00). Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 -1 (McKenna) to approve the Town charging $4.00 per copy of the Tree Manual but giving the tree warden discretion to provide free copies, as appropriate. MAPC Activities - Richard Canale Mr. Canale reported on the Metropolitan Area Planning Council's progress on its long -range regional plan, named MetroFuture, which was begun in the fall. He invited all to attend a final sub - regional Vision Phase workshop scheduled for December 11, 2003 at 6:45 p.m. at Littleton High School. He indicated that this effort ties in with Lexington's 2020 effort and that of other communities. Town Manager Goals It was agreed that Mr. McSweeney would meet with the Town Manager and together, working with the many goals provided by individual Selectmen, they would develop a list of strategic, operational and personal development goals with an emphasis on specific achievable, results oriented goals. This list would be brought back to the Board to consider. Committee Appointments Housing Partnership Board Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the charge of the Housing Partnership. Upon motion duly made and seconded, is was voted to appoint the following people as voting members of the Lexington Housing Partnership Board for terms as shown to expire September 30: Selectmen's Meeting — December 1, 2003 3 -year term David Burns — Developer/Builder Paul Sodano — Banker Jacquelyn Davison — League of Women Voters Ken Kreutziger — General Housing Advocate Iris Wheaton — General Housing Advocate Paul Linton — General Housing Advocate 2 -year term Niels Sokol — Banker Pat Nelson - Attorney Bob Bicknell — Hancock Church Housing Committee Dan Smith — Lexington Interfaith Clergy Association Betsy Weiss — General Housing Advocate Winifred McGowan — General Housing Advocate 1 -year term David Williams - Realtor Florence Baturin — American Association of University Women Mary Haskell — Lexington Coalition for Racial Equality Arthur Katz — General Housing Advocate Inky MacDougall — General Housing Advocate Mrs. Krieger will be the Selectmen liaison Ad Hoc Water /Sewer Rate Study Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Larry Belvin, Kathryn Benjamin, Paul Chernick, Lorraine Fournier, David Laredo, James Osten, Loren Wood, John Bartenstein and Dan Fenn to the Ad Hoc Water and Sewer Rate Study Committee. Mrs. Krieger will be the Selectmen liaison. Energy Conservation Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Roger Borghesani, Tom Boulet, Christopher Haines and Gene Fry to the Energy Conservation Committee. Mr. Kennedy will be the Selectmen liaison. Public Safety Staffing Review Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Nancy Adler, George Arthur Robinson, Michael Barry and Paul Keene to the Public Staffing Review Committee. Mr. McSweeney will be the Selectmen liaison. Mr. McSweeney will contact Edith Flynn about being on the committee. Selectmen's Meeting — December 1, 2003 Public Works Facility /Senior Center Advisory Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Nina Dodd, Douglas Lamm, Deborah Mauger; Council on Aging Liaisons - Don Chisholm, Paul Lapointe and Don Graham; Fair Housing - Harriet Cohen; LexHAB - Marshall Derby; Citizens -at -large - Michele Ciccolo, Dave Eagle and John McWeeney to the Public Works Facility /Senior Center Advisory Committee. Mr. Kelley will be the Selectmen liaison. Appropriations Committee, Capital Expenditures Committee, Conservation Commission liaisons will be named in the future. Building Finance Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Mark Elefante, Richard Perry, Jim McLaughlin and Bob Phelan to the Building Finance Committee. A liaison from the Capital Expenditures Committee should be included. Mr. Kelley will be the Selectmen liaison. Policv Manual Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Margery Battin, Norman Cohen, Laurie Smith, Lynne Pease to the Policy Manual Committee. Mrs. McKenna will be the Selectmen liaison. Noise Barrier Letter to Governor Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to send a letter to Governor Romney on the subject of the need for relief from the highway noise for the neighborhoods affected by the construction of the new exit ramp from Route 3 to Route 128. A letter requesting noise studies in Lexington was sent previously to the Mass Highway Department. Date of 2004 Local Election/State Primary and First Session of 2004 Annual Town Meeting Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to set the date of the 2003 Local Election and State Primary for Tuesday, March 2, 2004. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 -1 (McKenna) to set the date for the first session of the Annual Town Meeting for Monday, April 5, 2004. Buffet Mr. White laid out the latest financial information, a new schedule and the level of options staff will be giving the Board as they work toward developing a Town Manager's Recommended Budget for FY05. It was agreed that the Town Manager would prepare three budget alternatives, one that includes $1.9 million in cuts. Mr. White hopes that this will enable the Selectmen to be ready for a summit meeting on December 18, 2003. Selectmen's Meeting — December 1, 2003 Meetings were set for December 8, 15 and 17; Jan 5, 7, 12, and 14 to accommodate all of the departmental budget presentations. Home Rule Petition (Set Standards for Real Estate Tax Exemptions and Interest Rates Charged on Unpaid Taxes) Mr. White presented a collection of home rule efforts for tax exemptions and interest rate charges for unpaid taxes that were initiated by other towns. Mr. Kelley has asked him to move this forward as part of Town Meeting in March. Mrs. Krieger said that John Bartenstein has some good ideas in this regard as well. It is partly an effort to understand why people do not take advantage of measures that already exist that can help them financially. Financial implications of such programs for the town also need study. Mr. Kelley noted that older people with homes in Lexington are faced with selling their homes, which are highly valued, as they are unable to pay the taxes on their property. He was encouraged by his colleagues to look into what other models there are in this regard. Minutes Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of September 22, October 6 and 29, 2003. Liaison Reports Mrs. Krieger reported that the TMMA and LWV will be hosting an information meeting at first Parish Church on the redevelopment of the Met State Hospital site. AvalonBay will present its proposal. She encouraged everyone to attend. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn the meeting at 11:40 p.m. A true record, Attest: Elissa M. Tap Recording Secretary Selectmen's Meeting December 8, 2003 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday December 8, 2003 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room at 7:30 p.m. Chairman McSweeney, Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Kelley, Mr. White, Town Manager, Mr. Lahey, Town Counsel, and Ms. Tap, Recording Secretary, were present. Public Comment Residents Ellie Baker, Carl Zine, Eileen Benghiat and Jessica Steigerwald each asked the Selectmen to offer voters an override election in the Spring, citing their dismay over the effects on Town services and the public schools of the failed override vote in June. Mr. Jim Sheehy, an abutter to Arlex Oil on Massachusetts Avenue, expressed his anger at the Selectmen's vote on November 17 to grant a special permit to Arlex to load their oil trucks between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a. m. if they found it necessary. He accused them of ignoring the abutters, ignoring its own Noise Committee's recommendations and the process for such a permit. Water Sewer Commitments Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the following commitments: Commitment of Water Charges For 7/1/03 to 7/31/03 (Finals) $2,293.70 Commitment of Sewer Charges For 7/1/03 to 7/31/03 (Finals) $2,693.91 Commitment of Water Charges For 8/1/03 to 7/31/03 (Finals) $4,359.70 Commitment of Sewer Charges For 8/1/03 to 7/31/03 (Finals) $8,608.19 Change Start Date of Town Meeting Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to change the first day of the 2004 Annual Town Meeting from April 5 to March 29, 2004. Comptroller Search Mr. Kennedy urged the Board to get started on appointing a search committee for a new Comptroller/Director of Finance. In addition to those people already put forward as potential members, Tony Logalbo, Concord's Finance Director, former Selectman Paul Marshall and Susan Bottan were suggested. The Board agreed to ask them to serve. Mr. Kelley and Mrs. McKenna spoke in favor of having two Selectmen on the search committee. Mrs. Krieger indicated that it is important to have people on the committee who are familiar with this model as it has served the Town well in the past and has protected its AAA bond rating. Mr. Kennedy indicated that the search committee would be made up of people well qualified. Selectmen's Meeting — December 8, 2003 They would keep the Board informed all through the process and bring back a short list of candidates to the Selectmen. Mr. McSweeney concurred and indicated that the current model has served the Town well. Mrs. Krieger indicated that the Town Manager should be part of the processtoo. Mrs. McKenna stated her position that the Selectmen should control the process independent of the town manager, as a form of checks and balances per the Selectmen/Town Manager Act. Mr. Kelley indicated that the Selectmen should have the final vote on the job description and on the person hired. It was agreed to discuss the elements of the search process again next week. Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board authorized Mr. McSweeney to appoint John Ryan as Acting Comptroller and to negotiate with him salary and work hours. Noise Barrier for Paint Rock Neighborhood — Letter to Governor and Legislators Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the chairman to sign a letter to Governor Romney and the Towns Legislators expressing the Board's concern about the impact of construction on the Route 128/Route 3 interchange on the Paint Rock Neighborhood and urging them to support efforts to test highway noise levels and to provide relief to the residents of the area. Tax Classification Review Mr. White reported that a day after the Selectmen adopted a tax classification factor, he received a bulletin from the Department of Revenue telling us about some recently enacted legislation that established a special commission to develop legislation to modify the limits of the property tax classification laws for allocating property tax among residential and commercial property owners. The intent is to shift the maximum level up to 2.00 so you can minimize any increase on the residential property owner and restore any shift of the tax levy over a number of years. The legislation will allow towns that have not set their tax rate or had one they set approved by the Department of Revenue to issue estimated third- quarter tax bills. Mr. White noted that if the Town could send out estimated bills, it would take the sting out of a high fourth- quarter bill. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 3 -2 (McKenna, Kelley) to take advantage of the flexibility offered by the Department of Revenue and send an estimated third - quarter tax bill, and wait to submit a tax factor to the DOR. Selectmen's Meeting — December 8, 2003 Resignations /Appointments/Reappointments Public Safety Staffing Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Edith Flynn, Cleveland Coats and Barry Sampson to the Public Safety Staffing Review Committee. HATS DRI Review Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Larry Belvin and Stewart Kennedy to the HATS DRI Review Committee. License Renewals Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the renewal applications and issue the following licenses: Liquor Club Knights of Columbus Lexington Elks Lexington Golf Club Veterans of Foreign Wars Liquor Common Victualler Athenian Restaurant Bertucci's Brick Oven Pizza Copacafe Dabin Restaurant Hartwell House Restaurant Khushboo Lemon Grass Restaurant Peking Gardens Vinny T's of Boston Yangtze River Restaurant Liquor Innholder Sheraton Lexington Retail Package Goods Store Berman's Wine and Spirits Busa Brothers Liquors, Inc. Lexington Liquor Mart Vinebrook Bottle Shop Selectmen's Meeting — December 8, 2003 Liaison Reports Mrs. Krieger reported that the League of Women Voters would be hosting an information meeting where AvalonBay Communities, Inc. would present its redevelopment plans for the former Metropolitan State Hospital campus. The meeting will be held at First Parish at 7:30 p.m. 2003 Town Report Mr. McSweeney thanked Mrs. McKenna for drafting some material for the Selectmen's Annual Report. He asked for volunteers to write different sections and review what has been written so far. The information is due to the Town Report Committee by December 17, 2003. Executive Session — 9:05 p.m. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted by roll call vote: Mr. Kelly, Mr. Kennedy, Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. McKenna, and Mr. McSweeney to go into executive session for discussion of collective bargaining, with no intent to return to open session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn the meeting at p.m. A true record, Attest: Elissa M. Tap Recording Secretary Selectmen's Meeting December 15, 2003 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday December 15, 2003 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room at 7:30 p.m. Chairman McSweeney, Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Kelley, Mr. White, Town Manager, Mr. Lahey, Town Counsel, and Ms. Tap, Recording Secretary, were present. Public Comment Four residents spoke of their concern about the effects of the failed override and the many budget cuts made. They indicated that they would support an override and asked the Selectmen to support one. Mr. Byron Blanchard, 16 Round Hill Road, said that his street has not been plowed of snow yet. However, the sidewalk has been wonderfully cleared. NSTAR/Verizon - Reed Street - Install New Pole Mr. McSweeney opened a public hearing on the petition #1303 -61 of NSTAR and Verizon New England for a grant of location for a new pole and other sustaining fixtures to be installed in the public way in front of #1 Carley Road. Tom Monahan, NSTAR representative, explained that a new pole is needed even though there is another pole within 40 feet of the proposed new location. That pole is unable to safely support the fixtures necessary to provide service to a business at 162 Bedford Street. The Selectmen asked why the service could not be put underground; if the companies had considered other nearby poles that would not so directly impact the abutter who already has a pole very near her property; and why impacted residents were not even notified of the pole location hearing. The NSTAR representative responded that the distribution system there is an aerial system and that undergrounding is very expensive. Their notification policy requires notification of pole location hearings only to direct abutters. He noted that the Department of Public Works supplied them with the abutters list. Mr. McSweeney indicated that installing the new pole there was unsatisfactory and asked NSTAR and Verizon to solve the situation in another way. Mrs. McKenna indicated she wants to broaden the notification requirements to include all those impacted by utility service installations. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to continue the hearing to January 5, 2004. Selectmen's Meeting — December 15, 2003 Liberty Ride Update Kerry Brandin, Chair of the Tourism Committee, reported that in the 15 -week second season of Liberty Ride operations, both ridership and income exceeded their budget projections. Expenses were significantly less. The Ride hosted more than 4,000 passengers, including private charter groups. It had an operational deficit of $24,913, but that has already been reduced to $22,413. The committee is currently fundraising and it is their intention to bring the balance to zero. Additionally, they want to raise enough funds to allow the ride to operate to some extent in the spring of 2004. They are optimistic about a third season. The Liberty Ride's website was launched today. Lexington resident David Meyers through his technology company ERG did the upgrade of the site. The committee is grateful for this gift. The Tourism Committee would like to take advantage of the influx of visitors expected at the Democratic National Convention and will be meeting with Concord officials about extending service to Concord. Mrs. Brandin expressed the committee's thanks to Appropriations Committee member Mr. Hamburger and to Mr. Ryan and Mr. DiPietro of the Comptroller's office for their help over the past several months in developing a clear accounting method for the various aspects of the Liberty Ride. In response to Mr. McSweeney's question, Mrs. McKenna confirmed that the intent is for the Liberty Ride not to use taxpayer dollars. Avalon Presentation — Metropolitan State Hospital Redevelopment Mrs. Krieger, a member of the Met State Task Force, provided some background on the 15 -year process that brought Avalon Bay Communities, Inc. to the meeting tonight. Avalon Bay is the designated developer for the proposed redevelopment of the campus portion of the former Metropolitan State Hospital site off Concord Avenue. Its proposal included the elements that Lexington sought for use of the site and which are stated in the Reuse Plan: it provides a range of housing types, 25% of which will be affordable and includes age- restricted, as well as Department of Mental Health components; preserves historic architecture; traffic impact will not exceed that of the hospital use in the 1980s; it will be revenue neutral. Mr. Michael Roberts and Ms. Liz Smith of Avalon Bay; Mr. Steve Schwartz, attorney, of Goulston & Storrs; and Mr. Edmund Grant, local attorney were present for the development team. Mr. Roberts presented Avalon Bay's proposal for 430 apartment homes on the 23 -acre campus site, which is surrounded by 80 acres of permanent open space. He described the mix of unit sizes and types, 60 of which, at this point, are to be for people 55 years of age or over. Traffic impact figures will be available later in the week. He explained the way Avalon Bay arrived at Selectmen's Meeting — December 15, 2003 their projected 60 to 75 of school -age children (SAC), acknowledging that the actual number of SAC at their other development in Lexington off Waltham Street exceeded their projections at the time. It was also acknowledged that Avalon Bay will need to address the town's limit on building height and the method of calculating of open space on the site in its petition submission to the Selectmen for the warrant for Town Meeting. Questions and comments from the Board had to do with the number and mix of unit types, bringing Lexpress service to the development, the projected number of SAC, where the DMH units will be, and parking. Mr. McSweeney indicated that he wants the town to benefit economically from such a large development. Mrs. McKenna indicated that process and communication is very important in Lexington. Responding to criticisms of their SAC projections and claim of revenue neutrality, Mr. Roberts indicated that they would fund peer reviews of Avalon Bay's analyses and methodologies. They plan to be very open in their interactions with the town. License Renewals Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to issue the following licenses for 2004: Class I Lexington Toyota Sales Class II A to Z Auto Wholesale Lexington Auto Sales Class III John P. Carroll Company, Inc. Coin Josiah Willard Hayden Center — 4 licenses Lexington Elks — 3 licenses Lexington V.F.W. 3007 — 2 licenses Common Carrier Boston Tours, Inc. — 2 licenses Lexpress Shuttle Service — 4 licenses Selectmen's Meeting — December 15, 2003 Common Victualler Alexander's Pizza Athenian Bertucci's Bollywood Copacafe Dabin Denny's Dunkin Donuts — 2 licenses Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins Fife and Drum Holiday Inn Express Khushboo Lemon Grass Lexington Elks Lexington Golf Club Mario's McDonald's/Honey Dew Donut National Heritage Museum New Sia II Nick's Place Nicky's Ice Cream and Delectables Peet's Coffee and Tea Peking Gardens Pine Meadows Golf Club Sheraton Lexington Starbuck Coffee Vina Lago, Inc. Vinny T's of Boston Yangtze River Entertainment Copacafe Sheraton Lexington The Hartwell House Innkeeper Lodging Battle Green Inn Holiday Inn Express Sheraton Lexington Wild Acre Inn Selectmen's Meeting — December 15, 2003 Resignations /Appointments Energy Conservation Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Laura Persily to the Energy Conservation Committee. Fair Housing and Human Relations Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the resignation of Margaret Cole from the Fair Housing and Human Relations Committee, effective immediately. Budget Presentations Mr. White described the unusually detailed process he asked the departments to go through in developing their budget requests for FY05, which included needs based, bottoms -up and out -of- the -box approaches to the way their departments do business. Recreation Enterprise Recreation Director Karen Simmons presented the Recreation FY05 Budget Requests: Recreation - $844,632; Pine Meadows Golf Course - $572,723. Finance Comptroller John Ryan presented the Finance FY05 Budget: Comptroller - $492,572; Revenue - $235,804; Assessor; $225,055. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn the meeting at 11:30 p.m. A true record, Attest: Elissa M. Tap Selectmen's Meeting December 17, 2003 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Wednesday, December 17, 2003 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room at 7:30 p.m. Chairman McSweeney, Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Kelley; Mr. White, Town Manager; and Ms. Pease, Executive Clerk were present. Public Comment Ann Redmon spoke regarding the need for an override. Mrs. McKenna questioned why the Recording Secretary was not available for Wednesday meetings. Leo will discuss with Planning. Mr. McSweeney read the names of the 21 municipal employees that would be retiring from the municipal side of the Town at the end of the year. Those employees together have worked over 611 years. The Selectmen wished them all well. License Renewals Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to issue the following license renewals: Common Victualler Bruegger's Bagel Bakery, 413 Waltham Street Dunkin Donuts, 373 Waltham Street Friendly's, 1060 Waltham Street Lexington House of Pizza, 399 Lowell Street Rosie's Bakery, 32 Waltham Street Seattle's Best Coffee, 321 Marrett Road Starbucks Coffee, 1729 Mass. Avenue The Hartwell House, 94 Hartwell Avenue Commission on Disability The Commission on Disability requests the Selectmen send a letter to Town committees and departments that have some responsibilities for the design, construction, maintenance, operation, or safety of public buildings, open spaces, and public ways asking that they be mindful of the concerns of the disabled. The Commission also requests that the Selectmen include a criterion for membership to Boards and Committees of a commitment to diversity that includes a concern for those who are disabled. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to consider including as a criterion for membership on committees, commissions and boards a commitment to diversity that includes a concern for those who are disabled. Selectmen's Meeting - December 17, 2003 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to have the Chairman sign and send a letter to Town committees and departments that have some responsibilities for the design, construction, maintenance, operation, or safety of public buildings, open spaces, and public ways asking that they be mindful of the concerns of the disabled. Buffet Fire Fire Chief Peter Torode presented the Fire Department's FY05 Budget Requests: Fire Administration - $240,645, Fire Prevention - $148,125, Fire Suppression - $3,368,047, Emergency Medical Services - $652,986. Across the board reduction of $184,345 would be taken from Personal Services which would result in a hiring freeze, the East Lexington Fire Station would not reopen, and minimum manning would be reduced to 8 per shift. A value driven reduction of $115,000 would result in a hiring freeze, the East Lexington Fire Station would not reopen, and minimum manning would be maintained at 8 per shift plus the shift commander's car. Water /Sewer Public Works Director Bill Hadley reviewed the FY05 requests for Water Operations Expenses - $2,186,844, Water Regional Charges - $3,850,000, Sewer Operation Charges - $1,889,525, Sewer Regional Charges - $5,830,000. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 11:10 p.m. A true record, Attest: Lynne A. Pease Executive Clerk Selectmen's Meeting December 18, 2003 A summit meeting was held on Thursday December 18, 2003 in the Media Room at Lexington High School at 6:30 p.m. Chairman McSweeney, Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Kelley, Mr. White, Town Manager, and Ms. Tap, Recording Secretary, were present. School Committee Chairman Tony Close, Appropriations Chairman Deborah Brown, Capital Expenditures Committee Chairman Shirley Stoltz and Selectmen Chairman Leo McSweeney called their respective committees to order at 6:30 p.m. Mr. McSweeney said that he was glad to see so many people in the audience, as the Board wants the budget process to be as participatory as possible. It is crucial that residents understand the fiscal difficulties facing the town. Mr. McSweeney took a moment to recognize Comptroller John Ryan, who is retiring on December 30, taking advantage of the Early Retirement Incentive of the Municipal Relief Act. Mr. Ryan received a standing ovation from everyone in the room. Mr. Griffiths and Mrs. Benton also praised Mr. Ryan. Mrs. Benton gave a report on the school department's budget process. Mr. White reported budget process progress on the municipal side. He has asked department heads to provide him with four budget options: level service; value driven reductions, across the board 5.2 reductions, bottom up, and out -of -the -box. The group discussed the budget problems facing the Town. They agreed that educating the voters is key. Residents need to know the effects of cuts as well as the costs of services. Services were retained in FY04 by using the pension holiday provision of the Municipal Relief Act. But those services will need more funding in FY05. The cost of health benefits in FY05 could increase as much as 17 %. The School Committee indicated that a 2'/z% increase in funding would not allow the school to maintain the current level of service. Superintendent Benton will propose a FY05 "quality recaptures" budget to the School Committee. Rearranging the order in which articles would be taken up at the Annual Town Meeting so that the financial articles could come up later was suggested. The Selectmen will consider this. A number of residents spoke of their perceptions of the effects of the cuts made after the failed override on the schools and other services. The majority favored being given the choice of voting on an override. Selectmen's Meeting — December 18, 2003 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn the meeting at 8:20 p.m.