HomeMy WebLinkAbout2000-01-BOS-minSelectmen's Meeting Minutes
January 3, 2000
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, January 3, 2000 in the
Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Krieger, Mrs.
Eddison, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna; Mr. White, Town Manager; and Ms. Smith,
Executive Clerk were present.
Reorganization of Board
Executive Clerk Phyllis Smith opened the meeting. The first order of business is the election of a
chair.
Mrs. Eddison nominated Mrs. Krieger. Mrs. McKenna nominated Mrs. Eddison.
It was voted 4 -1 (Mrs. McKenna opposed) to elect Jeanne K. Krieger Chairman of the Board of
Selectmen.
Mrs. Krieger thanked her colleagues for their confidence and acknowledged the
accomplishments of Mr. Enrich as Chair of the Board for the past two years with the strategic
planning process. Mr. Enrich effectively established open communications with the Town
Boards and Committees and particularly with the School and Finance Committees during the
budget process. Mr. Enrich has laid a very strong foundation and I am confident that we will
build on that foundation.
Mrs. Krieger expressed great pleasure on the tremendous success of Last Night 1999. Board
members agreed to send a letter of congratulations and thanks to the following members of the
subcommittee for making it such a successful event: Cindy Savage, Jules Pieri, Kathryn
Freeman, Julianne Stevenson, Nina Sullivan, Jessie Foster, Kathryn Fields, Mary Trometer and
Mary Gillespie.
Mrs. Krieger also praised the outstanding work of the entire Y2K group headed by Karen
Simmons in efforts toward an emergency operational contingency plan for the Town.
Mr. Caleb Warner expressed thanks to Mr. Enrich on behalf of the TMMA and the South
Lexington Civic Association for his efforts in working with them in areas of mutual interest.
Consent Agenda
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to ratify a poll vote taken to approve the
application and issue a one -day liquor license to St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church for
December 31, 1999.
Selectmen's Meeting - January 3, 2000
Resignations /Appointments/Reappointments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the resignation of Ralph Clifford
from the Fair Housing and Human Relations Committee and Nancy Bartlett from the Human
Services Committee.
Buffet
The Executive Clerk was asked to post Summit meetings for January 12 at 4:30 p.m., January 24
at 4:30 p.m. and January 25 at 7:30 p.m. It will be decided at a later date whether there will be
need for the January 25 meeting.
Board Members reviewed the Override Prioritization List as a result of a majority decision made
at the last meeting. In addition, Mrs. McKenna provided a list of suggested cuts and additions to
and a reprioritization of the list. Board members reviewed and made the following decisions on
Mrs. McKenna's list: No on eliminating intern positions, eliminating management analyst
position, eliminating town cars for recreation director, water and parks superintendents, cutting
audit amount by $10,000 (however, it was decided to shift $10,000 audit funds from Selectmen's
budget to Comptroller's budget), payment to board of assessors, reducing Reserve Fund and
Consulting and tuition & training appropriations.
It was further agreed to add the conservation part-time clerk and assessors' clerk positions to the
B list for the override. It was also agreed to move the reorganization of the procurement office
further down on the B list.
A majority of the Board Members voted to add $100,000 for building maintenance software to a
line item in the DPW budget subject to the override.
A majority of the Board Members agreed to the following list of Selectmen priorities: No on
2410 municipal services /expenditures for telephone operator (However, the Selectmen asked the
Town Manager to address improving citizen access to the phone system); 3310 and 3330 Parks
and Cemetery increase for water, 3140 parking study and center cleanup (However, it was
decided to follow up with publicity for businesses to take the initiative and that this matter
should be under the purview of the Center Committee).
A majority of the Board Members took the following position on department head service
demand requests: No on 3140 Lexington Center parking changes, 4110 integrated planning
teams, and 4120 heart defibrillators. It was agreed to hold on a decision on 4220 underground
tank testing. The Board voted to include the following: 3220 hydraulic puller /pusher kit, 4230
fire alarm signal receiver and 8430 (vote 4 -1 Mrs. McKenna) vision software license.
Selectmen's Meeting - January 3, 2000
Sale of Town Owned Land
Mr. White indicated he had received another appraisal on Lot 117 on Map 54 at $2,500. If the
Board agrees to the second appraisal and a separate charge for the cost of the second appraisal of
$300, the Town will proceed with the sale.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 3 -2 (Mrs. McKenna and Mrs. Abbott
opposed) to proceed with the sale of Lot 117 on Map 54 for $2500 plus $300 for the appraisal.
Selectmen Liaisons
Mrs. Abbott reported that LexHAB was very pleased to get permission from MHFA to self -
manage the Interfaith Project on Garfield Street.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 10:10 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Phyllis A. Smith
Executive Clerk
Selectmen's Meeting Minutes
January 10, 2000
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, January 10, 2000 in the
Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Krieger, Mrs.
Eddison, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna; Mr. White, Town Manager; and Ms. Smith,
Executive Clerk were present.
Public Comments
Mr. Tripi said he hoped the Board would be coming up with an override proposal and number
soon and said this was government by referendum. He referred to the $4 million and the items
listed for the override as scare tactics.
Mr. Perry Pollins indicated he would not vote for the override no matter how it is presented. He
feels the override is going to wipe out the middle class in town.
Conservation Commission member Phil Hamilton urged the Board not to place the Conservation
Commission part-time clerk position on the override list.
Mr. David Kaufman questioned placing part-time positions on the override bearing in mind that
higher level professionals who are dependent on the support may end up picking up the work.
Such action may cause the need to replace the professionals.
Consent Agenda
Sewer Betterment Deferral
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request from George
Fortunato of 11 Bowman Street for a sewer betterment deferral in the amount of $2,954.
One -Day Auctioneer's License
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application and issue a one -
day auctioneer's license to Custom Liquidators of America, Inc. d /b /a Newton Oriental Rugs for
Saturday, March 18, 2000 at Heritage Hall, 177 Bedford Street.
Street Acceptance Hearing - Intent to Lay Out Public Ways
A public hearing was held for each of the following streets for the purpose of hearing all
interested parties:
Howard Munroe Place from Woburn Street, 290' more or less, to its terminus.
Litchfield Road from Lowell Street, 278' more or less, to its terminus.
Johnson Farm Road from Flintlock Road, 270' more or less, to its terminus.
Fox Run Lane from East Street, 622' more or less, to its terminus.
There being no questions from the audience or the Board, the hearing was closed and the Board
will vote to lay out each street at its January 24, 2000 meeting.
Selectmen's Meeting - January 10, 2000
Traffic Safety Advisory Committee
Traffic Safety Advisory Committee members Myla Kabat -Zinn and David Carbonneau were
present to review their recommendations on five matters that came before the Committee at
meetings in August and October 1999.
Lexington Center Bicycle Signage
The TSAC met with Mr. James Wichmann representing the Bicycle Advisory Committee to
discuss the placement of signs prohibiting biking and skateboarding on sidewalks. The TSAC
had no objection to the proposed signage and would be happy to assist the Bicycle Advisory
committee with sign ordering and installation. However, the TSAC sees this issue as being
primarily between the Bicycle Advisory Committee, the Design Advisory Committee and the
Police Department.
The TSAC recommends that no action be taken by the Board on this matter at this time.
Vinebrook Road
The TSAC met with Ms. Judy Uhrig of 15 Vinebrook Road regarding the parking situation on
Vinebrook road in the vicinity of Waltham Street. Ms. Uhrig was concerned about vehicles
parking on the north side (nearest to Mass. Ave.) of Vinebrook Road near Waltham Street.
Apparently, the Town has sanctioned the use of five parking spaces alongside of #51 Waltham
Street and in front of #4 Vinebrook Road. These spaces are within the public right -of -way but
off the traveled way of the road. According to Ms. Uhrig, parking in this location blocks
pedestrians walking on this side of the street, presents an obstacle to vehicles entering Vinebrook
Road and impedes driveway access. Ms. Uhrig requested installation of a curb to deter parking
in this location. Acknowledging the financial constraints the town is under, she would also be
happy with enforcement of the existing No Parking regulation on or off the pavement and
replacement of No Parking signs with No Parking On or Off Pavement signs. Ron Colwell of
Grant Cole Realtors wrote to Chief Casey saying that about thirteen years ago that abutting
businesses and the Town had reached agreement to allow parking in the five spaces along Vine
Brook Road if they parked off the street.
The TSAC has checked into this matter and has found no agreement restricting the Town's
ability to enforce No Parking regulations in this area. The TSAC therefore recommends
replacement of the No Parking signs on Vinebrook Road with No Parking On or Off Pavement.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the
Traffic Safety Advisory Committee to replace the No Parking signs with signs that read No
Parking On or Off Pavement
Selectmen's Meeting - January 10, 2000
Vine Street Parking
The TSAC met with about 10 residents from Vine Street with respect to a requested No Parking
regulation on Vine Street. Ruth Naylor, who requested the regulation could not attend the
meeting but sent a letter articulating her position. She stated concerns about passing and sight
distance around parked cars due to the narrowness of Vine Street but indicated that she would
withdraw her request if other residents did not support it. None of the residents attending the
meeting were in support of the regulation. Based upon resident opposition to the regulation, the
TSAC recommends that no action be taken by the Board on this matter at this time.
Adams Street Traffic
The TSAC met with Mr. Martin Finucane of 81 Adams Street and several other residents
regarding the speed and volume of traffic on Adams Street from Fiske School to the Burlington
town line. Mr. Finucane requested increased enforcement of the speed limit, traffic calming
measures or the installation of stop signs on Adams Street to slow traffic.
The TSAC informed Mr. Finucane that state regulations do not permit the use of Stop signs as a
speed control measure. Furthermore Adams Street is a major roadway with limited options for
traffic speed or volume reduction. The Police Department will increase traffic enforcement on
this section of Adams Street subject to resource constraints. The TSAC recommends no further
action on this matter at this time.
Fiske School Traffic
The TSAC met with Mr. Richard Schembor, Margie Johnson and about 8 other residents from
Colony Road to discuss conditions resulting from traffic generated by the Fiske School. John
Moynihan, Director of School Facilities and Anne McClouski, Principal of Fiske School were
also present. Fiske School has two entrances; one on Adams Street, which is restricted to enter
only and one on Colony Road, which is both enter and exit. Colony Road has two distinct
segments - Lower Colony running from Grant Street to the Fiske School entrance is reasonably
wide, flat, straight and is accepted by the Town - Upper Colony running from Woodland Road to
the Fiske School entrance is narrow, steep and winding and is not accepted by the Town.
According to our counts, roughly 180 vehicles enter and exit the School each morning and
afternoon. Entering vehicles are roughly evenly split between the Adams Street and Colony
Road entrances. All vehicles exit to Colony Road. Roughly 1/3 of the vehicles entering and
exiting at Colony Road go onto Upper Colony Road.
The residents of Upper Colony Road were concerned about the ability of Upper Colony Road to
handle the volume of traffic generated by Fiske School and presented pictures and engineering
data to support these concerns. Several alternatives were discussed to improve traffic safety.
Closing down the Colony Road entrance was rejected by the TSAC due to the impact it would
have on the Adams Street entrance. Making the Adams Street entrance two -way was also
rejected due to conditions at the Hathaway Street, East Street and Adams Street intersection.
Making the Colony Road entrance exit only was seriously considered but rejected for the same
reason.
Selectmen's Meeting - January 10, 2000
The TSAC believes that an overall increase in safety could be achieved by taking steps to reduce
two -way traffic on Upper Colony Road. The TSAC recommends instituting a NO LEFT TURN
Regulation from Upper Colony Road at the Fiske School entrance. There was also some support
by TSAC for restricting right turns onto Upper Colony Road from Fiske School. Because this
action would have a significant impact on Lower Colony Road, the TSAC decided to continue
discussion of a NO RIGHT TURN regulation pending notification of Lower Colony Road
residents. The TSAC also recommends installation of a crosswalk across the Fiske School
entrance at Colony Road.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the
TSAC to institute a NO LEFT TURN regulation from Upper Colony Road at the Fiske School
entrance.
There was agreement that the TSAC would come back to the Board on the NO RIGHT TURN
regulation after discussion with the Meriam Hill Association, the residents of Lower Colony
Road, and the Fiske School PTA.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 -1 (Mrs. McKenna) to accept the
recommendation of the TSAC to install a crosswalk across the Fiske School entrance at Colony
Road and to further pursue with the School Administration the need for a crossing guard.
Mrs. McKenna requested that the TSAC look into putting a crosswalk in front of the Town
Office Building. Mr. Friedlich suggested that they might want to look at removing the crosswalk
from in front of the Baptist Church.
Cablevision Funds
Communications Advisory Committee member Steve Ellis was present to request that $2700 of
the fund from Cablevision be used to pay for the annual subscription fee for SCOLA, the foreign
languages news channel.
Board members agreed that it is a well -used service to the community.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request of the
Communications Advisory Committee to spend $2700 of the fund from Cablevision to pay for
the annual subscription fee for SCOLA.
Selectmen's Meeting - January 10, 2000
Use of Battle Green - Peace Vigil on Friday Mornings
The Board was asked to extend permission for a walking peace vigil on the Battle Green on
Friday mornings for 1/2 hour. Mrs. McKenna indicated that although she supports the peace
vigil, she feels Hastings Park would be a more appropriate place for such a continuing event.
Other Board members felt it was an appropriate use of the Battle Green.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 -1 (Mrs. McKenna opposed) to approve the
request from Anne Collins to extend permission for a walking peace vigil on the Battle Green on
Friday mornings from 8:00 to 8:30 through the end of June with the specific exception of Friday,
April 14, 2000.
Warrant Article for Home Rule Petition re Grant of Location Approval Authority
Senior Civil Engineer David Carbonneau reviewed a proposed warrant article that would request
a home rule petition that would give the Lexington DPW Director grant of location approval
authority for underground lateral work. Mr. Enrich asked that the Town Engineer draft a
detailed DPW process for the proposed changes to the Mass. General Laws.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the placing of a Home Rule
Petition on the Warrant for the 2000 Annual Town Meeting.
Betterment Assessment Process
Mr. Carbonneau reviewed the Betterment Assessment Process for sewer, water, sidewalk, and
street construction. Board Members expressed an interest in seeing the development of a step by
step process to assist residents particularly in petitioning for a sidewalk as a solution to many of
the traffic safety matters that come before the Board.
Budget Matters
Mr. White reviewed material prepared for the Summit Meeting scheduled for January 12.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 -1 (Mrs. McKenna) to endorse the Override
Prioritization List as presented dated January 7, 2000.
Selectmen's Meeting - January 10, 2000
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to put $5,000 in the Fire Department base
budget for the tank testing program.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 10:10 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Phyllis A. Smith
Executive Clerk
Board of Selectmen, School Committee, Finance Committees
January 12, 2000
Diamond Middle School Cafeteria
Selectmen Present: Dawn McKenna, Betty Eddison, Jeanne Krieger, Peter Enrich, Cathy Abbott;
Town Manager Richard White; Town Counsel Norman Cohen and Management Intern Michael
Baker
School Committee Members Present: Martin Long, Fred Rosenberg, Robin Digiammarino,
Susan Elberger, Barrie Peltz
Meeting Agenda
1. Reaffirm Schedule and Delivery Deadlines — Jeanne Krieger
Correction to the calendar on Page 2 of the handout— Summit Meeting VI will be held on
February 15, 2000, not February 14.
2. Final Revenue Estimates — John Ryan
3. Fiscal Policies — Peter Enrich
4. Budget Expenditure Definition — Rick White and Pat Ruane
5. Long Range Forecast — Rick White
6. Override
Motion: to support an override for FY2001 in the amount of between $3.7 and $3.8 million, to
include $500, 000 for road maintenance expenses
Board of Selectmen Vote: 5 -0
School Committee Vote: 5 -0
Finance Committees: Unanimous Support
The Boards informally agreed to deal with future increases or decreases in revenue estimates in a
collaborative manner, and stated that there would be no increase to the override amount unless
faced with a major catastrophe.
The Boards also discussed ground rules for the January 24 Summit Meeting. The School
Committee and Board of Selectmen agreed to maintain the integrity of the override lists, and to
refrain from selecting, eliminating, or skipping over items on each others' lists during the
merging process.
A true record, Attest:
Michael Baker
Management Intern
Minutes of the Board of Selectmen and School Committee
January 24, 2000
Joint Meeting with Appropriation Committee
And Capital Expenditures Committee
Mrs. Krieger called the meeting of the Board of Selectmen to order at 4:40 p.m. on Monday,
January 24, 2000 in Estabrook Hall in Cary Memorial Building, 1605 Massachusetts Avenue.
Members present were Chairman Krieger, Mrs. Eddison, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs.
McKenna; Also present were Town Manager Richard White, Town Counsel Norman Cohen,
School Committee Chair Robin DiGiammarino, Fred Rosenberg, Barrie Peltz, Martin Long,
Susan Elberger; Superintendent of Schools Dr. Pat Ruane, School Director of Business and
Finance Susan Bottan and Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk to the Board of Selectmen, Members of
the Finance Committees and Town Staff
School Expenditure Reduction
Mrs. DiGiammarino explained that the School Committee had reduced their budget request by
$260,458. The reduction reflects a change in approach to implementing assistant principals at
the elementary level. They will be funding only one full -time equivalent.
Options
There was discussion on what to do with the $260,458 reduction on the School Budget. The
options available are to reduce the amount of the override, increase Free Cash or Increase the
proposed appropriation. After some discussion it was decided to reduce the amount of the
override from $3.1 million to $2.85 million.
Reaffirm Policy Decision on Override
The Selectmen and School Committee members reaffirmed a decision made in early fall to have
a bundled override. They also reaffirmed their decision to include $100,000 for building
maintenance software and $500,000 for road maintenance bringing the total Override to
$3,457,231.
At Risk List
There was some discussion of both the Town and School Prioritization lists.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted by the School Committee to place Items 1-
11 on the Town side and 1 -20 on the School side on the override.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted by the Board of Selectmen 4 -1 (Mrs.
McKenna opposed to three items - Curriculum Initiative Budget $200,000, Team Leaders /School
Initiatives $31,623 and Foreign Language Program $120,000) to place Items 1 -11 on the Town
side and 1 -20 on the School side on the override as follows:
Selectmen/School Committee Meeting — January 24, 2000
Eliminate the Mosquito Program $15,750, Eliminate Lexpress and Chair Car $269,567, Reduce
Library Hours $91,000, Eliminate Comprehensive Planning Funding $50,000, Stop Calling in
Snow Removal Contractors $126,000, Decentralize Personnel Function $48,000, Eliminate
Services for Youth $71,929, Eliminate Municipal Clerk Position $30,690, Eliminate Part Time
Clerk Position $20,000, Reduce A -Shift from 4 to 3 Sectors and Eliminate Supervisor $155,000,
Close Massachusetts Avenue Fire Station $720,000. These items from the Town side amount to
$1,597,936.
MS Athletic Program $15,000, 2.0 FTE Custodian, 2.0 FTE Maintenance $140,000,
Maintenance & Operations Projects $200,000,.5 FTE Foreman $20,000, SPED/Building Project
Administrative support $20,000, 1.0 FTE Elementary Asst. Principal $65,000, .6 FTE Classroom
Teacher /Specialist $30,000, 1.6 FTE Regular and Special Ed Learning Center $80,000, SPED
New Leadership Structure $85,000, Recruitment Expenses $8,000, 1.0 FTE Tech Integration
Specialists $50,000, AV Budget /Technology Staffing $23,000,.25 FTE Systemwide SPED Tech
Integration Specialist $12,500, High School Textbooks $39,937, Extracurricular Budget $75,000
Supplies /Media $38,069, Middle School Textbooks $50,000, Curriculum Initiative Budget
$200,000, Team Leaders /School Initiatives $31,623 and Foreign Language Program $120,000.
These items from the School side amount to $1,303,129.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 6:12 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Phyllis A. Smith
Executive Clerk
Selectmen's Meeting Minutes
January 24, 2000
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, January 24, 2000 in the
Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Krieger, Mrs.
Eddison, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen,
Town Counsel and Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk were present.
Consent Agenda
Vote to Layout Streets
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to lay out as a Town way the following
streets:
Howard Munroe Place from Woburn Street a distance of 290 feet, more or less, to end;
Litchfield Road from Lowell Street a distance of 278 feet, more or less, to end;
Johnson Farm Road from Flintlock Road a distance of 270 feet, more or less, to end;
Fox Run Lane from East Street a distance of 622 feet, more or less, to end.
Water /Sewer Commitments and Adjustments
Commitment of water charges for 8/16/99 (cycle 9)
$171,537.92
Commitment of water charges for 9/21/99 (cycle 9)
$141,468.22
Commitment of water charges for 10/18/99 (cycle 9)
$69,641.51
Commitment of water charges for 11/23/99 (cycle 9)
$154,670.36
Commitment of water charges for 12/23/99 (cycle 9)
$91,063.60
Commitment of water charges for 12/1/99 (cycle 1)
$670,939.18
Commitment of sewer charges for 12/1/99 (cycle 1)
$1,207,653.10
Commitment of water charges for 12/7/99 (cycle 2)
$758,124.61
Commitment of sewer charges for 12/7/99 (cycle 2)
$1,235,818.04
Adjustments of water charges for 9/1/99 to 9/30/99
- $168.74
Adjustments of sewer charges for 9/1/99 to 9/30/99
- $442.02
Adjustments of water charges for 10/1/99 to 10/31/99
- $3,160.51
Adjustments of sewer charges for 10/1/99 to 10/31/99
- $9,924.36
Adjustments of water charges for 11/1/99 to 11/30/99
- $523.35
Adjustments of sewer charges for 11/1/99 to 11/30/99
- $2,015.31
One -Day Liquor License
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request from the Armenian
Sisters and issue a one -day liquor license for a Valentine's Day fundraiser on February 12 from
8:00 p.m. to Midnight.
Common Victualler License
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request and issue a common
victualler license to Lexington Restaurant Group, LLC d /b /a Carolinas.
Selectmen's Meeting - January 24, 2000
Pledge of Liquor License and Change of Manager - Vinny Testa's
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve a request for a transfer of pledge
and change in manager and issue a new all alcoholic beverage license to Vinny Testa's.
Resignations /Appointments/Reappointments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the resignation of Elisabeth
Brosens from the Solid Waste Action Team.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Jacqueline Davison as the South
Lexington representative to the Space and Building Needs Assessment Advisory Committee.
Rotary Gifts to Town
Rotary President Paul Keane and Treasurer Diane MacIver were present to receive the thanks of
the Town for equipment donations made to the Police and Fire Departments and to explain other
contributions to many charitable organizations. Police Chief Chris Casey thanked Rotary for the
generous contribution of four defibrillators to be placed in the cruisers. Fire Chief Jack Quinlan
also thanked Rotary for the gift of a thermal imaging camera to the Fire Department.
Mr. White also asked the Selectmen to set up a Selectmen's Gift Account to receive a check from
Symmes Hospital for the purchase of an additional defibrillator for the police cruisers. Dr. Foley
will be invited to the next meeting to receive the thanks of the Town.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to establish a Selectmen's Gift Account for
receiving donations for the purchase of defibrillator materials for the Police Department.
Noise Committee
Mr. White gave the Board a suggested draft charge for a Noise Committee as a next step to the
Noise Resolution the Board adopted previously. He will be asking the Board to approve a
charge for the committee at its next meeting.
Economic Development Survey
Economic Development Officer Joe Marino was present to review the purpose and contents of a
survey that is intended to go to all the businesses in Town. Board members made some minor
suggestions /changes to both the letter and survey.
Selectmen's Meeting - January 24, 2000
Municipal Center Parking
Transportation Coordinator Nancy Kolb reviewed available alternatives for parking
arrangements around the Town Hall complex when the Library is relocated to Cary Hall.
Mr. White indicated that there are needed amendments to the Permit Parking Regulations to take
care of minor changes that have taken place over the last several years.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the changes to the Regulations
for Permit Parking as proposed by the Town Manager.
Minutes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of the meetings of
December 13 and December 21, 1999.
Executive Session Minutes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the executive session minutes of
the meeting of December 13, 1999.
Liaison Reports
Mr. Enrich reported that some years ago a four town - planning group was formed to provide
some better understanding of development issues as they relate to the four towns. In the past
two to three years they have also looked at how best to coordinate the efforts of the four towns
on issues that affect Hanscom and the four towns. The four towns acting through the planning
boards should get into agreement on efforts of regional impact. A draft has been prepared and
presented to the Planning Boards and they have been asked for feedback by this Thursday. The
four town committee will consist of two representatives from each town, one from the Planning
board and one from the Conservation Commission to be designated by the Board of Selectmen.
They will review proposals on impacts to the GEIR.
Mrs. Krieger indicated there would be a meeting in March to review the results of the Charette
including transportation issues.
Mrs. Eddison indicated that Lexington's Sister City in Antony, France is interested in joining us
for the Patriot's Day festivities; however, we need to send them a formal invitation.
Mrs. McKenna gave a brief update on the work of the Space and Building Needs Assessment
Committee.
Selectmen's Meeting — January 24, 2000
Executive Session
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5 -0 by roll call vote: Mrs. Krieger, Mrs.
Eddison, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Abbott and Mrs. McKenna to go into executive session for discussion
of collective bargaining with no intent to resume open session.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:12 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Phyllis A. Smith
Executive Clerk
Selectmen's Meeting Minutes
January 31, 2000
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, January 31, 2000 in the
Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Krieger, Mrs.
Eddison, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen,
Town Counsel and Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk were present.
Mr. Enrich announced that the Town of Lexington had received the Annual Kenneth E. Pickard
Innovation Award at the Massachusetts Municipal Association's Annual meeting. He accepted
the award on behalf of the Town. Both Acton and Lexington received the award for the takeover
of town streetlights and it generated a lot of interest by other communities. Mr. Enrich
applauded the efforts of the Lighting Options Committee, the Engineering staff and George
Woodbury, Rick White and Legal Counsel in making the award possible.
Mrs. Abbott announced that the Town had also received an award for its 1999 Annual Town
Report at the MMA Annual Meeting. The Board will be congratulating the Town Report
Committee members for their contribution to this award.
Consent Agenda
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request of the Recreation
Department to conduct the Little League Opening Day Ceremonies at the Center Field on
Saturday, April 29 at 11:00 a.m.
Lexington Bicycle Advisory Committee
Lexington Bicycle Advisory Committee members Marita Hartshorn and Jerry Van Hook
reviewed the status of four high priority projects of the Committee; namely the Hartwell Avenue
Bike Path, improving the look of Lexington Center behind CVS, the Metromedia cable line
along the bike path; and signs asking people to walk their bikes in the center.
Dr. Michael Foley — Symmes Hospital
Police Chief Chris Casey introduced Dr. Foley who on behalf of Lahey and non - Lahey
practicing physicians donated a heart defibrillator to the Police Department and $2,500 to Cary
Memorial Library. Mrs. Krieger thanked Dr. Foley and expressed appreciation for all the
services provided by Symmes and Lahey.
Road Maintenance
Senior Civil Engineer David Carbonneau updated the Board members on the road maintenance
program and explained the different methods of maintenance and cost implications of each.
Board Members thanked Mr. Carbonneau and asked that more detail be provided to the Board by
Town Meeting.
Selectmen's Meeting — January 31, 2000
Lexington Commission 2000
Lexington Commission 2000 Chair Skip Hayward reviewed the program of activities planned for
a four -day celebration over the Patriot's Day Holiday. This is the 225 anniversary of the Battle
of Lexington.
Mr. Enrich expressed concern over the planned military fly -over. After discussion it was agreed
that a military fly -over is appropriate and that the community should be advised that there will be
some noise involved but that it will be for a very short time span.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the plan and give appropriate
permission as needed for activities that take place subject to on -going consultation with
appropriate town departments.
Traffic Safety Advisory Committee
Traffic Safety Advisory Committee Chair Myla Kabat Zinn and Member David Carbonneau
were present to review the recommendations of the TSAC on several matters.
Vaille Avenue Traffic
The TSAC met with about 8 residents from Vaille Avenue regarding traffic conditions on Vaille
Avenue. Residents were concerned about the volume and speed of traffic and the large number
of children on the street. Residents also pointed out poor pavement conditions that resulted from
a water break in the Spring. The pavement has since been patched. The residents stated that the
configuration of the road and pavement markings encouraged fast driving. They requested the
town consider speed bumps, additional signage, and removal of the double yellow center line.
The Engineering Division conducted a brief speed study of the street and found speeds and
volumes within reasonable ranges. Sight distance, grades and roadway width appeared to be
adequate. A check of the accident record showed one accident over the past 4 years.
The TSAC is currently evaluating speed humps and other traffic calming devices for use on
public streets. However, even if a policy were in place, it is unlikely that traffic calming
measures would be recommended on a street with the conditions that were observed on Vaille
Avenue. The TSAC does recommend that two CAUTION CHILDREN signs be placed between
#15 and #21 and between #32 and #26 and that the double yellow center line not be repainted.
The cost of these measures is approximately $200.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the recommendation of the Traffic
Safety Advisory Committee to place CAUTION CHILDREN signs and not repaint the double
yellow center line on Vaille Avenue.
Selectmen's Meeting — January 31, 2000
Hayward Avenue Traffic
The TSAC met with residents from Hayward Avenue regarding traffic conditions on Hayward
Avenue. The residents stated their concerns about the excessive speeds of vehicles on the street
together with the large number of children and the proximity of houses to the street. State law
allows the town to install and enforce signs on private ways provided consent is received from
abutting property owners. The TSAC recommends installation of a CAUTION CHILDREN sign
at a cost of approximately $150 contingent upon consent of the property owners. Mrs. McKenna
felt it should be left to the property owners, as it is a private way. Mrs. Krieger felt the Town
should put up the sign.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 -1 (Mrs. McKenna) to accept the
recommendation of the TSAC to install a CAUTION CHILDREN sign on Hayward Avenue.
Pleasant Street Crosswalks
The TSAC met with residents from the Stearns Road/Pleasant Street neighborhood in response to
their request for crosswalks at Pleasant Street and Stearns Road and at Pleasant Street and
Worthen Road East. The TSAC was in general agreement with the residents as to the benefit of
a crosswalk at Worthen Road East to serve the Bowman School but had concerns regarding
visibility at this location. The TSAC decided to reconsider this matter at a later meeting pending
further investigation of roadway geometry at this location. The TSAC recommends a crosswalk
be placed at the intersection of Pleasant Street and Stearns Road to facilitate pedestrian travel
from Stearns Road and Webster Road neighborhood to the sidewalk on the south side of Pleasant
Street.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the recommendation of the TSAC
for a crosswalk at the intersection of Pleasant Street and Stearns Road.
Traffic Calming = Speed Hump Policy
The TSAC discussed a draft traffic calming policy that would identify traffic calming devices
and the situations in which they would be used and to identify the groups that would be affected
by such a policy and a process to solicit input. The TSAC will continue these discussions at a
later date.
DO NOT ENTER Wilson Road and Ellison Road
The TSAC met with residents in the Wilson Road/Ellison Road /School Street neighborhoods to
discuss the DO NOT ENTER regulations on Wilson and Ellison. The discussion was prompted
by concerns from residents on School Street that the regulations on Wilson and Ellison shifted
traffic onto School Street and aggravated traffic conditions on School Street. The DO NOT
ENTER regulations on Wilson and Ellison Roads were recommended by TSAC and the
Selectmen voted to institute them on June 13, 1993. The School Department at that time limited
the Hastings School drive to one -way travel from Crosby Road. The TSAC met with 8 residents
Selectmen's Meeting — January 31, 2000
from Wilson and Ellison Road who reiterated the need for the regulations. There were no School
Street residents at the meeting. Prior to the meeting, Engineering conducted traffic counts that
confirmed the high volume of traffic on School Street but did not confirm that the situation was
worsened by the DO NOT ENTER regulations. Therefore, the TSAC recommends that no
changes be made to the existing regulations.
The TSAC recommends placement of a crosswalk on Wilson Road on the school side of the
intersection with Roosevelt Road. Mrs. Abbott expressed her continued concern about a
crosswalk in the vicinity of a school without a crossing guard and asked that TSAC discuss the
possibility with the School Department.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the recommendation of the Traffic
Safety Advisory Committee for a crosswalk on Wilson Road the school side of the intersection
with Roosevelt Road.
Highland Ave./Winthrop Road Intersection
The TSAC met with Mr. John Rommelfanger of 25 Hilltop Avenue regarding what he
considered to be a confusing right -of -way at the intersection of Highland and Winthrop Streets
and Vinebrook Avenue and Winthrop Streets. The TSAC agreed that the situation at these
intersections would be improved by installing YIELD signs on Highland approaching Winthrop
and Vinebrook approaching Winthrop. State YIELD warrants are met. The cost of installing
these signs would be approximately $300.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 -1 (Mrs. McKenna) to accept the
recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee.
Rawson Avenue Stop Signs
The TSAC discussed a request from Emmanuil Shrayer and Xiaow Wen for STOP signs on Bow
Street approaching Rawson Ave. and Rawson Ave. approaching Bow Street. According to the
residents this section of road receives heavy traffic from vehicles travelling from Lowell Street to
Mass. Ave. and this corner has very poor sight distance. The TSAC verified the poor sight
distance at this location due to fences on both sides of the street but could not recommend STOP
signs at this location. The requested location for the existing STOP sign would violate state
regulations by stopping the major traffic movement on this street. We therefore recommend that
no action be taken on this matter at this time.
Stop Signs at Forest and Muzzey
The TSAC met with residents from Forest and Muzzey Streets on measures to improve traffic
safety at this intersection. This meeting was a follow -up to an earlier one initiated by Paul
Asquith of 26 Clarke Street. The residents requested that STOP signs be placed on Forest Street
at Muzzey Street. The accident record was investigated and the Engineering Division conducted
traffic counts at the intersection to determine if accident or volume 4 -way stops warrants were
satisfied. Because neither warrant was satisfied, the TSAC does not recommend a 4 -way stop at
this location at this time. At the request of the residents attending the meeting, the TSAC
Selectmen's Meeting — January 31, 2000
decided to recommend that crosswalks be installed at the North and East legs of the intersection.
It was thought that the volume of pedestrian traffic justified these measures. The TSAC also
agreed to evaluate the placement of the STOP and ONE -WAY signs to determine if moving
them closer to the intersection would be an improvement.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to install a crosswalk at the North leg of the
intersection.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to install a crosswalk at the East leg of the
intersection.
Ridge Road Traffic
The TSAC met with Abelaziz Ilag of 14 Ridge Road to discuss traffic conditions on Ridge Road.
Mr. Ilag was concerned about the high speed of vehicles on Ridge Road and requested the Town
install speed bumps. The TSAC indicated that it is currently investigating use of speed humps
and other traffic calming devices in Lexington but are unlikely to recommend traffic calming
measures on Ridge Road for several reasons. Traffic calming devices are typically designed to
make it more difficult for vehicles to travel at high speed on a road. The geometry and condition
of Ridge Road already present a considerable deterrent to fast driving. Secondly, Ridge Road is
a private way and the town is more limited in what it can and will do on private ways. The
TSAC did agree with Mr. Ilag that the close setback of homes on the street aggravates the
problem and recommended that he consider placing cones or other devices alongside the road to
help warn motorists of the nearby dwellings. The TSAC recommends no action at this location at
this time.
Center Parking Spaces
The Police Department requested that DPW/Engineering clarify the status of two potential
parking spaces in the Edison Way Parking Lot at the entrance to the Meriam Street Parking Lot.
This entrance is blocked by a jersey barrier and the pavement is gored with yellow hatching. In
the past these spaces have been metered by installing meters on the jersey barriers. When the
jersey barriers were removed to open the entrance between the parking lots, the meters were
damaged. DPW/Engineering believes that designating the two spaces as 30 minute maximum
would allow use of the spaces and is an acceptable alternative to metering at this location. The
cost of the signage is about $150.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the recommendation of the TSAC.
Crosswalk at Worthen Road East Approaching Bowman
Mr. Carbonneau advised the Board of two requests that have been pending. The TSAC
recommends a crosswalk advance sign at Worthen Road East just before the turn.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to install a crosswalk advance sign on
Worthen Road East approaching Bowman.
Selectmen's Meeting — January 31, 2000
Hill Street
The TSAC recommends an additional "Blind Driveway" sign between 38 and 36 Hill Street.
The sign is warranted.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the recommendation of the Traffic
Safety Advisory Committee.
GFOA Budget Award
Mr. White announced that the Town has received the GFOA budget award for excellence for the
fourth year and praised the work of the Departments and the Town Manager's staff.
Capital Expenditures Committee
Capital Expenditures Committee Chair Charlie Hornig was present to talk about the small ticket
cash capital piece of the FY2001 budget. The Committee is fully supportive of the capital policy
adopted for small ticket items. The Committee has not yet come to a conclusion on the big ticket
items.
Mr. Hornig then reviewed the Committee's recommendation of $2,597,864 vs. a request of
$2,095,914 for FY2001.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:55 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Phyllis A. Smith
Executive Clerk