Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002-01-BOS-minSelectmen's Meeting Minutes January 7, 2002 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, January 7, 2002 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room at 7:30 p.m. Mrs. Krieger, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Lahey, Town Counsel and Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk were present. License Renewals Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application and issue an all alcoholic beverage license for Nikita Enterprises, Inc. d /b /a Khushboo for 2002. Resignations /Appointments Communications Advisory Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the resignation of Raul Marques and Bob Warshawer from the Communications Advisory committee. Upon motion duly made and seconded it was voted to appoint Howard Cravis to the Communications Advisory Committee for a term to expire September 30, 2003. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Timothy Counihan to the Communications Advisory Committee for a term to expire September 30, 2004. Solid Waste Advisory Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the resignation of Richard Strauss from the Solid Waste Advisory Committee. Fence Viewer Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Bill Simmons, Dave Buczkowski and Bob Warshawer as Fence Viewers for terms to expire September 30, 2002. Chapter 40B Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Stanley Abkowitz and William Passman to the Chapter 40B Committee. Appointments to Council on Aging Mr. White asked the Board to approve his appointments of Frieda Oliner and Frank Meehan to the Council on Aging. Selectmen's Meeting — January 7, 2002 Mrs. McKenna expressed her concern that the appointment of Frank Meehan, although very qualified and a teacher at the Clarke Middle School, would deviate from the policy to appoint Lexington residents only. Mrs. Abbott felt comfortable about the appointment because Mr. Meehan is a teacher in the Town and Mr. McSweeney supported the Town Manager's recommendation. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the Town Manager's appointment of Frieda Oliner to the Council on Aging. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 -1 (Mrs. McKenna) to approve the Town Manager's appointment of Frank Meehan to the Council on Aging. Acting Town Manager Appointment Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the Town Manager's designation of Linda Crew Vine as the Acting Town Manager from February 7 through February 13, 2002. License Renewals Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to issue the following licenses for 2002: Common Carrier A Yankee Line, Inc. Common Victualler's Boston Sports Club in Lexington Minutes Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of the meeting of November 5, 2001. Future Meetings Board members agreed to meetings on January 7, 14, 22 and 28 and February 4, 2002. Pay as You Throw PAYT Coordinator Robert Beaudoin reviewed the statistics on solid waste and recycling comparisons over the past four years. Mr. Beaudoin also reported that they have started weekly recycling however they do not have the second truck in yet. Selectmen's Meeting — January 7, 2002 Lincoln Field Town residents Bob Atchinson, Paul LeBlanc and Bib Licht and Recreation Committee member Rick DeAngeles presented a request that the Board include an article in the warrant and the funds to be part of the upcoming debt exclusion for significant upgrading of the Lincoln Field complex. The cost is approximately $3.2 million that includes a contingency of 10 %. There were many questions from the Board Members including looking into whether this would be a project that might come under the Community Preservation Act. It is estimated that a detailed proposal could be obtained in 30 days and a cost analysis done by mid to late February. Fair Housing and Human Relations Committee Report Fair Housing and Human Relations Committee member Jean Hibino presented the board with a declaration of respect that the Committee would like the Board to endorse. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to endorse the Declaration of Respect sponsored by an ad hoc group of civil rights and community relations agencies and organizations. Budget Update Mr. White gave the Board a wrapup of the budget situation. Presently the gap between estimated expenditures and estimated revenues stands at $3,704,778. He recommended reducing the health insurance budget by $750,000. We are ready with the road program for the debt exclusion but not the land purchase and what we are gong to use for swing space for the elementary school project. The next summit meeting with the School Committee and finance committees aimed at closing the gap is scheduled for January 16. Executive Session Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted by roll call vote: Mrs. McKenna, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. Abbott and Mr. McSweeney to go into executive session for the purpose of discussion of litigation and potential land use with no intent to resume open session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:40 p.m. A true record, Attest: Phyllis A. Smith Executive Clerk Selectmen's Meeting Minutes January 14, 2002 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, January 14, 2002 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room at 7:30 p.m. Mrs. Krieger, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Lahey, Town Counsel and Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk were present. Public Comments Loren Wood inquired about the revenues from the PAYT tags and whether there would be 30 free tags again. Mr. White indicated the program will be the same this year, the thirty free tags and the revenue will be applied to the tax rate but the Board hasn't voted that yet. Mr. Tripi complained about the Board setting a precedent by appointing non residents to committees. Perry Pollins complained that the new senior center and the improvements in the downtown area are taking a back burner to the school project. Dilip Mathur said four weeks ago he had brought to the Board's attention the fact that the noise regulations are not being enforced. He is waiting for the matter to be on the Board's Agenda. Mr. White responded that the Police are getting out letters to businesses that are not complying with the regulations and that the matter will be on a future agenda. Traffic Safety Advisory Committee Traffic Safety Advisory Committee member David Carbonneau brought several procedural measures for the Board's consideration in an attempt to expedite and improve service to Lexington residents concerning traffic safety matters brought before the Committee. Board members discussed the several initiatives of the Committee and asked Mr. Carbonneau to come back with a list of items that the TSAC is suggesting the staff address as part of a staff review. Mr. Enrich also suggested that the actions be brought to the Board's attention at an early subsequent opportunity. Mr. Carbonneau indicated he will be coming back to the Board at the meeting on the 28 and could prepare a report for the meeting. Board members all agreed that speeding up the traffic safety process was a good idea. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request of the TSAC to allow the Committee, with the approval of the Selectmen, to initiate items for consideration. Mr. Carbonneau brought the recommendation of the TSAC on the following: Selectmen's Meeting — January 14, 2002 Pleasant St./Watertown St. Intersection The Committee met to discuss problems at the Pleasant St./Watertown St. intersection brought to the Committee's attention by Mr. Ephraim Weisstein. Mr. Weisstein described frequent accidents caused by Mass. Ave. bound traffic on Pleasant St. hitting vehicles entering Watertown Street from Pleasant Street. Mr. Weisstein suggested that a stop sign or another means of slowing traffic be added to the southbound movement on Pleasant Street to improve the situation. The TSAC agreed with Mr. Weisstein that the geometry of this intersection is not ideal. However, we did not believe such a stop sign would reduce the uncertainty of the direction of the southbound movement, which is the major cause of the problem. Furthermore, a Stop Sign at this location would be inconsistent with state regulations. Two years ago the Board approved the installation of "Use Direction Signals" sign on Pleasant Street just before Watertown to help address the problem. The TSAC recommends no further action at this location at this time. Lincoln Street Traffic The Committee met with residents from the Lincoln Street/Hastings Park neighborhood to discuss their concerns about traffic and parking in the area. Also present at the meeting was Donald Mahoney Executive Director of the Hayden Recreation Center. The specific concerns brought before the Committee included: parking problems caused by overflow from the Hayden Recreation Center, Temple Isaiah, Hastings Park and the Center Pool complex; excessive speeds on Lincoln Street and use of Audubon Rd. & Hastings Rd. as "cut- through" routes between Mass. Ave. & Lincoln Street. The neighborhood presents many of the conflicting land uses common in Lexington; access and parking demands for the public spaces, the desire of motorists for fast uninterrupted travel on Worthen Road and Lincoln Street and the desire of residents and pedestrians for safe quiet streets. The TSAC did not believe there were any simple ways to reconcile these conflicting land uses, nor would it be within our charge. However, we did believe that certain measures could be taken to improve the situation. The TSAC recommends increased traffic enforcement on Lincoln Street and that no parking regulations be put in place on the North side of Lincoln Street from Worthen Road to the Hayden Recreation Center, between the entrance and exit of Hayden Recreation Center and approximately 50 feet from the entrances of Audubon and Hastings Roads to improve sight distance and facilitate traffic movement. The TSAC also recommends a crosswalk be considered in the area to improve pedestrian access. A specific recommendation on a crosswalk location will come before the Board at a later date. There was much discussion and questions from Board members. Mr. Carbonneau suggested he take the comments into consideration and tighten up the regulations brought before the Board and come before the Board with a revised set of recommended regulations in late February. Selectmen's Meeting — January 14, 2002 Maple St./Mass. Avenue & Pleasant St./Mass. Ave. Intersections Mr. Carbonneau spoke of meetings with residents about the signalization of intersections at Maple St. and Mass. Avenue and Pleasant St and Mass. Avenue. There are many issues associated with signalization: installing a signal does not necessarily increase the safety of an intersection, though it does tend to change the kind of accident that occurs; State regulations, aesthetic concerns and the significant cost of such an undertaking. The TSAC recommended that a warrant analysis be done on the two intersections to determine if signals are warranted. There was a warrant analysis done in the `80's that indicated the Interruption of Continuous Traffic Warrant was met at both intersections. It can be safely assumed that the intersections would continue to meet these warrants since traffic volumes have increased. Right of way considerations may justify the need for signals at these intersections, but accident statistics do not. Board members discussed the impact of signalization on the flow of traffic; whether there was any thought to having cars going in certain lanes; what is the status of a regional group analysis of the Maple Street intersection; are the intersections totally within the Town's jurisdiction; looking at other areas such as Alewife to see if there are other possibilities short of signalization; whether we need to go to the State on signage or just signalization; what the cost of signalization would be; the need to spend some money to find out what the appropriate measure would be, to do design work to come up with some of the alternatives. Many residents of the Maple Street area spoke of the dangerous situation. Mrs. Krieger summarized the comments that there is a need to take some action, particularly at the intersection of Maple Street and Mass. Ave., a need to establish a policy to look at unsignalized intersections and a need to understand what ramifications, cost and preliminary design work is involved in signalization. Hillcrest Avenue Traffic Conditions Mr. Carbonneau reviewed a request for Caution Children signs, a lower speed limit, a stop sign or a speed bump to slow traffic on Hillcrest Avenue. Hillcrest is a narrow, winding road between Mass. Ave and Lowell Street. The residents believe that the existing 30 mph speed limit is too fast for the geometry of the road and the number of children on the street. The TSAC did not feel that additional signage would be effective at reducing speeds but did recommend that road tubes be placed on the street to measure the speed of vehicles. The Police Department placed road tubes that indicate that the 85 percentile speed is 26.6 mph, which is below the 30 mph speed limit, therefore, the TSAC recommends a speed study be conducted as a first step toward posting a lower speed limit. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee to conduct a speed study on Hillcrest Avenue. Selectmen's Meeting — January 14, 2002 Mass. Avenue Crosswalk The TSAC reviewed a request by Mrs. McKenna for a crosswalk in front of Town Hall approximately midway between existing crosswalks at the Post Office and the Police Department. Mrs. McKenna believed the crosswalk would assist people parking on the south side of Mass. Avenue accessing Town Hall or Cary Hall and reduce jaywalking. The TSAC was concerned about the effect of another yield point on motorists and potential impact on traffic patterns but felt the potential benefits justified a trial installation. The TSAC recommends an additional crosswalk be installed on a one year experimental basis. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee. Davis Road No Parking The TSAC reviewed a request by North Shore Development for a No Parking regulation on Davis Road from Moreland to Rockland Avenue. The request has the support of the abutters. The TSAC recommends approval of a No Parking Regulation on Davis Road from Moreland to Rockland Avenue. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee. Mass. Avenue at Pelham Road The TSAC met with Joseph McDaniel and several members of the Armenian Sisters' Academy regarding the intersection of Pelham Road and Mass. Avenue. Concerns expressed are the poor sight distance from Pelham Road and the high speed of traffic on Massachusetts Avenue. The Selectmen recently installed a Traffic Entering Ahead sign on Mass. Avenue to try to address the problem. The petitioners requested that a mirror be placed at the Pelham Road intersection. The TSAC shares the concerns of the petitioners, however, does not believe a mirror would solve the problem. The TSAC feels the reflected image of oncoming traffic would be too small and transitory to be of any assistance to vehicles exiting Pelham Road. The Engineering Division is researching the use of mirrors to improve sight problems but have not as yet found any design guidance to indicated situations in which they would be effective. The TSAC also discussed establishing a school zone on Mass. Avenue to slow traffic and improve the situation. However, the Armenian Sisters' Academy is too far from Massachusetts Avenue to meet the warrants. The TSAC recommends no further action at this location at this time. Hartwell Avenue Traffic The TSAC discussed a letter from a group of employees at 81 Hartwell Avenue expressing concern about the traffic situation on Hartwell Avenue, particularly the left turn from Maguire Road onto Hartwell Avenue. This situation is worsened by the relocation of employees to the Selectmen's Meeting — January 14, 2002 Air Base from Mitre Corporation in Bedford. The TSAC pointed out that a detail is stationed at this location to facilitate traffic flow at the Hartwell Avenue, Maguire Road intersection during peak travel times. A traffic light has been designed and permitted at this location but lacks funding for construction. The TSAC recommends no further action at this location at this time. License Renewals Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the renewal applications and issue common victualler licenses to Dunkin Donuts and Denny's Restaurant. Appointment to Lexington Center Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Kenneth Elmore to the Center Committee for a term to expire September 30, 2004. Minutes Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of the meeting of November 19, 2001 as corrected. Summit Meeting Mr. White gave Board members material for the Summit Meeting scheduled for January 16 at which meeting it is hoped that the Board, School Committee and Finance Committees can close the gap between FY03 anticipated expenditures and revenues amounting to $3,704,778. Board members discussed a request from the Tourism Committee that the budget include funds for a Shuttle Tour Bus 2002 Pilot Business Plan. Mr. Enrich indicated his initial inclination is to think this is a very attractive and very tempting endeavor if it works. I haven't had a chance to read the proposal. A program that would run for four months and needs to generate revenue of $120,000 or $1,000 a day would need to generate 100 tourists a day. That is the one number that immediately captured my attention; it sounds like a lot of people. Mrs. Krieger indicated she had read the proposal and felt is an extraordinarily good proposal. After staff has had an opportunity to do an analysis, we would hope to know what we would accept as reasonable losses in the first month. Mr. McSweeney also felt it is an exciting proposal. Selectmen's Meeting — January 14, 2002 There was discussion about the PAYT Program and whether it would be similar to the 2002 program. Mr. White said it would include the $930,000 revenue estimate with $747,000 being held in reserve and would go back directly to the taxpayers. The residents would also receive 30 free tags. The only difference to the program will be weekly recycling. Liaison Reports Mrs. McKenna announced that the Tourism Committee had elected Joel Berman as its chair. Mrs. McKenna also commented on the success of the holiday lighting program as reported by Beverly Kelley who spearheaded the fundraising. Mrs. McKenna also suggested the Board members think about the suggestion of forming subcommittee of the Town Celebrations Committee to manage the holiday lighting each year. Executive Session Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted by roll call vote: Mrs. McKenna, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. Abbott, and Mr. McSweeney to go into Executive Session for discussion of a matter of litigation with no intent to resume open session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 10:17 p.m. A true record, Attest: Phyllis A. Smith Executive Clerk Summit IV Meeting Minutes January 16, 2002 A Summit meeting of the Board of Selectmen, School Committee and Finance Committees was held on Wednesday, January 16, 2002 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room at 7:30p.m. Mrs. Krieger, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. McKenna, Mrs. Abbott, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager and Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk were present. Mrs. Krieger called the meeting of the Board of Selectmen to order and announced that the purpose of the meeting is to close the FY03 gap between anticipated expenditures and revenues of $3,665,582. Mrs. DiGiammarino reported that the School Committee voted last evening to move ahead with two new elementary schools using one swing space at Harrington. They also voted to move ahead with the design of new Bowman and Estabrook Schools. There was discussion of what articles should be proposed for the Special Town Meeting. It was decided to include an article for: modifications at Diamond Middle School that would not be part of the debt exclusion; construction of two new elementary schools and design money for two elementary schools; road program; Lincoln Park and possibly acquisition of the Wright farm. There was consensus that the Special Town Meeting should be called for March 25 and possibly holding the referendum election on May 20. After much discussion it was agreed to make the following adjustments: $750,000 benefits reduction; $687,000 cash capital reduction; $250,000 increase in Personal Property Levy Growth; $100,000 increase in Enterprise indirects; $76,000 NESWC reduction (selling capacity at higher rate); $500,000 increased use of Free Cash; $145,000 increase in State Aid; $200,000 in Town reductions; $165,000 in school reductions. It was agreed that the School committee and Board of Selectmen would make further cuts of $200,000 each. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 10:45 p.m. A true record, Attest: Phyllis A. Smith Executive Clerk Selectmen's Meeting Minutes January 22, 2002 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Tuesday, January 22, 2002 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room at 7:30 p.m. Mrs. Krieger, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Lahey, Town Counsel and Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk were present. Special Town Meeting Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to call a Special Town Meeting on March 25 at 8:15 p.m. at the Museum of Our National Heritage Auditorium. Budget Closeout Board members discussed a list of proposed cuts in the amount of $200,000 that have been recommended by staff Concerns were expressed about cutting the Police personal services budget. Mr. White indicated it could be made up in the float, that this cut is significantly less of a risk than last year. Mrs. McKenna expressed concern about the tourism signage improvements being the only thing that was removed from the Board list. Mrs. McKenna also inquired about the tour bus program being included in the budget. Mrs. Krieger felt the Board needs feedback from staff on the tour bus program. Mr. Enrich felt the tour bus proposal is very attractive if it is revenue neutral. It is a complex proposal. I am comfortable with it being included in the budget. As for the $10,000 for starting up a sign improvement program, again, I think it is a very good idea; however, it is a new program, a fairly expensive program. For us to be introducing new programs as part of a budget is taking liberties on major policies. This doesn't strike me as the year to be funding new programs. There was further discussion about several items on the list. Mrs. McKenna made a motion to substitute a cut of $10,000 from building maintenance utilities account instead of $10,000 for tourism signage. The motion was not seconded. Mr. Enrich made a motion to approve on a tentative basis the Town Manager's proposed list of cuts understanding the Board may come back later with some amendments. The motion was not seconded. Mrs. McKenna made a motion to accept $190,000 of the cuts proposed by the Town Manager that would exclude the signage improvements. The motion was not seconded. Selectmen's Meeting — January 22, 2002 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 3 -2 (Mrs. Krieger and Mr. Enrich) to establish the $200,000 in reductions as listed with the change that the signage improvements remain but that the budget not include the new park laborer position and go back to seasonal employees. Upon motion duly made and seconded, a vote to include the tour bus program in the budget line item under economic development and offsetting with an increase in revenue was defeated 2 -3 (Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. Krieger and Mr. Enrich). There was some discussion over the list of capital improvement reductions. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommended cash capital cuts as follows: $50,000 in sidewalk improvements; $150,000 to upgrade the Visitors' Center (to be funded under the Building Envelope Project by deferring the Facilities Study to FY2004) and $311,800 to replace Fire Department Engine 2 (to be deferred to FY2004). Liaison Reports Mr. Enrich reported that he had a small technicality with regard to HATS as we proceed into the ESPR process. We have had to hire our own consultant and have selected Lisa Baci, who is a member of our own Conservation Commission. We need to give her clearances from either dual roles as a Conservation Commission member and her other role as a teacher in one of the two community ed programs. We need to vote to exempt those two positions from any conflict of interest. Upon motion duly made and seconded, acting under the authority of M.G.L.c.268A §20(d) it was voted an exemption for Lisa Baci to enter into a contract with the Hanscom Area Towns Committee to provide consulting assistance to review Hanscom Field Environmental Status & Planning Report while continuing to serve as a special municipal employee as a Lexington Conservation Commissioner. Upon motion duly made and seconded, acting under the authority of M.G.L.c.268A §20(b) an exemption for Lisa Baci to teach several computer classes for the Lexington Community Education program, which is part of the Lexington Public Schools. Ms. Baci further informed the Board that she wished to resign her appointment to the Developments of Regional Impacts Committee. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the resignation of Lisa Baci from the Developments of Regional Impacts Committee. Selectmen's Meeting — January 22, 2002 Mrs. McKenna inquired about process for the Town Manager's evaluation. Mrs. McKenna expressed concern with two different evaluation forms being provided to Board members and asked that process be on the next Agenda and that the public evaluation be on the agenda after the next meeting. Mrs. Abbott said she had no objection to discuss process at the next meeting. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:25 p.m. A true record, Attest: Phyllis A. Smith Executive Clerk Selectmen's Meeting Minutes January 28, 2002 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, January 28, 2002 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room at 7:30 p.m. Mrs. Krieger, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Lahey, Town Counsel and Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk were present. Public Comments Perry Pollins said the senior citizens were being poorly treated because the Board has not taken action in replacing the Senior Center. The Center is poorly lit and poorly designed. Traffic Safety Advisory Committee Mr. Carbonneau reported that at the last meeting of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee on November 14, there was not a quorum with only he and Captain Corr present and the five matters that were brought up had not been further reviewed with the full Committee. Mr. Carbonneau reviewed the following: Massachusetts Avenue `Bump- outs" Ephraim Weiss requested curb "bump outs" on Massachusetts Avenue opposite the Post Office. Mr. Weiss referenced safety concerns associated with the wide pavement area available to motorists and the safety hazards that poses to pedestrians. Mr. Weiss believed that an extension of the sidewalk would improve pedestrian safety. The TSAC agreed with Mr. Weiss with respect to the desirability of channeling traffic and creating a more pedestrian friendly environment. However, the scale of such a project would be considerable. The need to provide gradual traffic transitions, accommodate the large number of utilities and match the high standards of design and materials elsewhere in the Center would lead to a very costly project. The TSAC believes there would be many benefits to such a project but it would be difficult to justify on the basis of traffic safety considerations alone. The Design Advisory Committee and Lexington Center Committee have a major role in making recommendations to the Selectmen on matters involving the Center. It was recommended that Mr. Weiss forward his written statement to the two committees for their consideration. Webster Road "Go Slow Children Sians" Marie Stocki presented her concern for the safety of children on Webster Road who are forced to play in the street because of the absence of sidewalks. She requested signs to alert drivers to the presence of children. The TSAC voiced skepticism about the ability of signage to allow children to play safely in the street. The TSAC also outlined the policy of using signage to communicate information not otherwise apparent to drivers. The TSAC did not believe the conditions on Webster Road warranted special signage and recommends no further action at this time. Selectmen's Meeting — January 28, 2002 Audible Traffic Signal Mass. Ave., Pedestrian Crossing Sign at Woburn Street Richard Landau, a legally blind resident, requested audible traffic signals particularly at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Waltham Street. That site is extremely problematic because the traffic signal is not timed consistently which prevents him from learning a system to cross safely. The Town Engineer responded that an adaptation to the existing signal mechanism is not technically possible and that a new signal has been proposed for the coming year. An audible signal will be researched in the design process. The Town Engineer noted that the Center Committee would also need to review the audible signal. Mr. Landau also expressed concern regarding the visibility of the Woburn Street crosswalk near Fletcher Avenue. The TSAC recommends a crosswalk sign be installed at the Woburn Street crosswalk near Fletcher Avenue facing the Massachusetts Avenue bound lane. There was some discussion about placing flashing signs on a trial basis. Mr. Carbonneau will come back to the Board with a policy on flashing signs at a meeting in early March. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee's staff subgroup. Douglas Road Caution Signs Tienyong Hua reviewed his concerns regarding conditions on Douglas Road. Vehicles approaching Douglas Road do not anticipate a 90- degree turn from Fulton on to Douglas. Vehicular traffic and speed increase during commuter hours when the roadway is used as a shortcut from Lowell Street to East Street. The TSAC recommends a 90- degree curve sign be installed on Fulton Road to alert drivers to the upcoming sharp curve. Captain Corr will alert the police patrols to monitor the Douglas/Fulton area for traffic safety compliance. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adopt the recommendation of the TSAC staff subgroup. Marrett Road Sidewalk & Crosswalk at Downing The TSAC met with several residents of the Marrett Road Prospect Hill neighborhood to discuss their request for a sidewalk on the south side of Marrett Road from Waltham Street to Bridge Street and a crosswalk on Marrett Road at Downing Street. Also present at the meeting was Barbara Manfredi, the principal of Bridge School. The principal and residents described the importance of the proposed sidewalk and crosswalk as a route for school children and other pedestrians. The volume and speed of traffic and the lack of a crosswalk make it extremely difficult to access the Bridge School and Prospect Hill from the south side of Marrett Road. Mrs. Manfredi indicated that there were 84 students who live on the South side of Marrett Road who would benefit from the proposals. Selectmen's Meeting — January 28, 2002 The TSAC responded that Marrett Road is under state jurisdiction, which would complicate but not prevent construction of a sidewalk or a crosswalk. More problematic would be the lack of funds available for sidewalk construction. The TSAC saw the merit of sidewalk construction and would be happy to evaluate the request in the context of a sidewalk program if funding were available. At this time there is no such funding available. Funding would not be an issue for a crosswalk installation, but the Committee had concerns about the safety of a mid -block crosswalk on Marrett Road. Adding a crosswalk supervised by a crossing guard would address these concerns but the TSAC could not guarantee that funding would be available for an additional crossing guard at this location. The TSAC voted to reconsider a crosswalk without a crossing guard at a later date. Mr. Carbonneau said he had talked about the school crossing guard matter with School Director of Business and Finance Susan Bottan. She indicated they could review pedestrian routes at the same time as bus routes are evaluated. Mrs. Abbott said she could not imagine an unsupervised crosswalk on Marrett Road. Mrs. McKenna felt it is a priority area for a sidewalk. Mr. Enrich completely concurred with Mrs. Abbott's concerns. Mr. Enrich also spoke of his pleasure at the coordination with the schools in prioritizing a sidewalk program and felt the Board should wait on any sidewalk construction before the prioritization is done. Mr. Herbert, a Marrett Road resident, said parents might be willing to man the crosswalk. Center Parking Assistant Town Engineer Dave Carbonneau and Transportation Coordinator Gail Wagner reported on meetings with the Center neighbors regarding parking. As a first step to alleviate some of the issues the following recommendations were made: • Relocate 8 of the employee parking spaces on Massachusetts Avenue in front of Cary Hall to behind the Police Station. Relocate 7 customer parking spaces behind the Police Station to Massachusetts Avenue. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation to relocate 8 employee parking spaces. • Implement No Parking regulations covering 2 spaces on Massachusetts Avenue to accommodate the new crosswalk. Upon motion duly made and seconded it was voted to approve the recommendation to remove 2 spaces on Massachusetts Avenue to accommodate the new crosswalk. • Increase the number of Parking Permits issued in the Church of Our Redeemer lot by ten spaces. That would overbook the lot by ten spaces. The overbooking can be accommodated by the lot according to the parking consultant Vannasse Hangen Brustlin. They recommend increasing the number of permits to increase the utilization. The recommendation is coming at a good time because the Town is currently in the process of selling permits for the year. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation to increase the number of parking permits issued in the Church of Our Redeemer lot by ten. Selectmen's Meeting — January 28, 2002 Mrs. Krieger indicated the notes from the meetings held on the Center parking are being edited and organized into large subcategories with an objective of a summary of the proceedings and measures recommended. Mr. Carbonneau indicated that there were a lot of good ideas suggested at the meetings. We hope to have the summary finished by next week. We are planning to have two meetings to go over the proceedings. By early March we will have a set of proceedings to you which will summarize the report recommendations and other recommendations that have come from the public. Resignations /Appointments/Reappointments Traffic Safety Advisory Committee Mrs. Krieger publicly thanked Myla Kabat -Zinn for her work on the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for so many years. Other Board members echoed her sentiments. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept with regret the resignation of Myla Kabat -Zinn from the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee. Historic Districts Commission Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint James J. Lee, III as an associate member of the Historic Districts Commission for a term to expire December 31, 2006. Fund for Lexington Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Daniel Lucas as Lexington Rotary representative to the Fund for Lexington Board effective March 1, 2002. Town Counsel Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Palmer & Dodge, LLP represented by William L. Lahey as Town Counsel for a term to expire March 31, 2002. Use of Battle Green Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request from The Pastors' Fellowship to use the Battle Green on Thursday, May 2, 2002 froml2:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. for an outdoor prayer meeting. The estimated number of people in attendance is 300. Noise Bylaw Update Police Chief Chris Casey spoke of the Police Department's plan to implement a training program for staff to enforce the Noise Bylaw. Supervisors and a select number from every shift will participate. They will be certified as they have to enforce citations. That doesn't mean we haven't responded. The Grant Street Place neighborhood has been very patient. Selectmen's Meeting — January 28, 2002 Chief Casey also reported on data obtained during a survey that was conducted between the hours of 2:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. The business owners want to be responsive. Mr. Dilip Mathur thanked the Chief. He said he had spoken with Tony Galaitsis and one of the things he said was that before the bylaw was drafted they talked to dumpster companies who indicated that the hours between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. could be accommodated. Also, in general the businesses are cooperative. Sally Sharp Lehman, a resident of Sherman Street, expressed concern about the noise in the area behind the Town Offices and the Post Office. Sewer Betterment Deferrals Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to defer sewer betterments to Hannah Scott, Map 35 Lot 8 in the amount of $3,401.00 and Albert R. & Gertrude Piantedosi, Map 35 Lot 2 in the amount of $12,528.00. Minutes Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of the meetings of November 6, November 26, and December 3, 2001. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of December 10, 2001 as amended. Executive Session Minutes Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the executive session minutes of October 29, 2001 as corrected. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the executive session minutes of the meetings of November 19, and November 26, 2001. Future Meetings Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to schedule meetings for February 11, February 25, March 4, March 6 (Summit), March 11 and March 18, 2002. Town Manager Evaluation Process Mrs. Krieger had given Board members two evaluation forms and reminded everyone that this is the fourth consecutive year we have had an evaluation of the Manager. We should have some discussion on the selection of the format. We have done the evaluation using a process where Selectmen's Meeting — January 28, 2002 members provide written comments, then I summarize the comments, provide you with a copy and after all agree, discuss the evaluation at a public meeting. Board members discussed their preference as to the forms and process. Mrs. Abbott preferred using a broader approach than the number based process last year. She felt it was too limiting and hoped for more opportunity to provide information that is more helpful to the manager and the citizens. It should be meaningful in content. Mrs. McKenna felt it was important that the members agree on whatever form should be used. I think there are some strengths in both of the forms. I think the Town Manager's performance in Town is much more than just a relationship with the Board. In the past other models were used such as the 360 process. We need to have comments with the staff and citizens and there needs to be some confidentiality with that. Mrs. Abbott felt she understood the importance of a broad based input but did not feel it is appropriate for the Board to be the ones to interview the public and the staff None of us, except maybe Mrs. Krieger are trained in the personnel field. The 360 review was conducted in the past but not directly by us. We are devising policies and have to ask the manager to carry them out. I don't see us as getting in touch with the public in a general evaluation nor with the staff That is not our responsibility nor in our purview. Mr. Enrich expressed a concern that for the Board to presume to undertake the role of inquisitors of the staff invites serious mischief. It reflects less of an understanding of appropriate roles. Our role is really the role of the Board of Directors. We need to know the organization is run properly, not running it ourselves. Mrs. Krieger agreed that the need is to know the organization is run properly. Mr. McSweeney felt he could use either form to allow him to complete his evaluation of the Manager. I think I would not need to have to interview anyone. Mrs. McKenna said she feels that no board member has the breadth of knowledge of the Town Hall because we are not there every day. I am looking to round out the complete picture. Mrs. Abbott felt all members would agree with the premise. I think there is a big piece of accountability there. When staff come back from a Selectmen's meeting with information we have asked for, it is a very public process. Mrs. McKenna felt given that the board members did not agree with an interview process, she would feel more comfortable using the forms they have used in the past and asked that the evaluation be done in the same manner that we did last year. Selectmen's Meeting — January 28, 2002 Mr. Enrich felt either form would do. He agreed with Mrs. Abbott's point. What do we do once we get it on a numerical scale. Mrs. McKenna hoped that they would be given an extra week and get their evaluations back by February 22. Mrs. McKenna indicated she hoped that the goals and objectives would be done again as last year. Liaison Reports Mr. Enrich reported that the CPA final report will be in the Selectmen's packets next weekend. The Committee will review the report at the Selectmen's Meeting next Monday. Executive Session Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was vote by roll call vote: Mrs. McKenna, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. Abbott, Mr. McSweeney to go into Executive Session for discussion of a matter of litigation with no intent to resume open session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:35 p.m. A true record, Attest: Phyllis A. Smith Executive Clerk