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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-05-BOS-min 68-312 Selectmen’s Meeting May 11, 2015 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, May 11, 2015, at 7:00 p.m. in the Selectmen Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Chairman Pato, Mr. Kelley, Mr. Cohen, Ms. Ciccolo and Ms. Barry; and Mr. Valente, Town Manager; and Ms. Pease, Executive Clerk, were present. Public Comment Ms. Sharone, 9 years old, requested permission from the Selectmen to use the Battle Green on Saturday, May 16, 2015, at 3:00 p.m. for the start of a kid-organized walk to help end poverty. Approve Use of the Battle Green – Walk for Wages Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the use of the Battle Green on Saturday, May 16, 2015, at the beginning of a “Walk to Help End Poverty” starting at approximately 3:00 p.m. Ms. McKenna, Tourism Committee, provided the Board with a copy of the “Linger in Lexington, Revolutionizing Tourism Report done by the Boston College Consulting Clinic, which evaluated tourism’s impact on the local economy, determined what tourism’s optimal role should be in Lexington and developed a measurable and actionable strategy to implement. Ms. McKenna announced that Thelma Goldberg, founder of The Dance Inn in Lexington, will receive the 2015 Dr. Michael Shannon Dance Champion Award from the Boston Dance Alliance at the organization’s May 14 gala. Selectmen Concerns and Liaison Reports Mr. Kelley asked if the Post Office mail box in the Cary Memorial Building circle would be returned when construction is complete. Mr. Valente will check on. Ms. Barry enjoyed attending the Lexington High School Performance Arts musical “Into the Woods” over the past weekend. Ms. Barry reminded the Board that the Selectmen will have a booth at Discovery Day on May 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and asked her colleagues to let her know when they can man the booth. Ms. Barry requested an agenda item be added to the May 18 or June 1 agenda to debrief on the 2015 Annual Town Meeting. 68-313 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 11, 2015 Town Manager Report Mr. Valente reported on three items: 1.He announced the promotion of Michael McLean and John Mazerall to Captains in the Police Department. 2.The Lincoln Field repair work has been completed and the field was reopened over the weekend. 3.He showed some pictures of the Community Center ongoing renovation work and will provide further updates at the next Selectmen meeting. Lexpress Routes – Proposed Changes Ms. Rebecchi, Transportation Manager, presented the proposed modifications to Lexpress Routes 1 and 4 that are needed due to the opening of the Community Center and long headway times. The modifications proposed include: 1) implementing peak/off-peak schedule for Route 1 which would shorten the route mid-day to allow front door service to the Community Center while still maintaining service to outlying neighborhoods during peak hours; and 2) shortening Route 4 to decrease headway times and allow Route 4 to only serve the Sunny Knoll neighborhood during peak hours (7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.) and during off-peak hours Lexpress will turn left on to Hill Street and skip this area of low ridership. Ms. Rodgers, Human Services Director, stated that the Human Services and Recreation and Community Programs Departments are exploring transportation options for Lexington Public School children and ways to get kids to the Community Center for scheduled programs. System capacity, vehicles and staff was discussed at the initial meeting with the public schools and C&W Transportation. Currently the elementary school programing bus has no capacity for fall 2015. For discussion and follow-up they are looking at gathering data from all new fall programming at the Community Center and beginning to plan middle school special programing for early release days which would involve a bus door to door. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve modifications to Lexpress Routes 1 and 4, effective July 1, 2015, as presented. Discussion of School District Building Projects Mr. Pato plans to include a standing Selectmen agenda item to keep the Board abreast of developments with the rapid examination of needs for expanding the school system. Updates for this week included: 1.A Guest commentary written by School Committee Chair Steigerwald and Selectmen Chairman Pato that will be in the Lexington Minuteman Thursday May 14. 68-314 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 11, 2015 thth 2.Public meetings with the design engineering firm (DeNisco) began on May 4 and 5 and on May 12 another session has been scheduled at Hastings. 3.A meeting of the Pre-Summit Group of Chairs+1 took place to look at issues that need to be covered at the Summit meetings to be held Tuesday, July 14, 2015 and Thursday, July 16 to cover decision points as outlined at town meeting and checkpoint for what to complete working on in developing the plan. Grain Mill Alley Revised Charge and Appointments Ms. Tintocalis, Economic Development Director, provided the Board with a revised charge for the Ad Hoc Grain Mill Alley Steering Committee based on comments from the April 29 Selectmen meeting. The proposed members are from: Center Committee Fred Johnson and Mike Boudette), Planning Board (Ginna Johnson), Design Advisory Committee (John Frey), Arts Community (Cristina Burwell), Youth of the Community (Patrtick Sullivan) and Tourism/Visitor Community (Kerry Brandin). Liaisons will be included from the Selectmen (Joe Pato), Bank of America (John Gallagher), Office Condo Association (Jay Trani) and Historic Districts Commission (Lynn Hopkins). Before a final plan is recommended by the Committee, they will be installing items in the Grain Mill Alley for metrics data and to see what might be successful. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the charge for the Ad Hoc Grain Mill Alley Committee, as proposed. It was further voted to appoint Fred Johnson to the Committee as Chair and to also appoint the following members: Mike Boudette, Ginna Johnson, John Frey, Cristina Burwell, Patrick Sullivan, and Kerry Brandin. Approve Parklet on Massachusetts Avenue Ms. Tintocalis, Economic Development Director, explained that for the past two years the Town has installed a parklet in two parking spaces on Massachusetts Avenue, near the Ride Studio Café. It has been extensively used by the public and staff is recommending that the parklet be installed again in 2015. She also asked the Board if they would entertain approving the parklet on a continuing basis unless they decide to rescind the decision for a parklet. Mr. Kelley felt it was important to reconnect with the Board each year on installing the parklet and to review the request in the fall. Ms. Ciccolo suggested that the parklet be installed earlier next year. She is not opposed to discussing the possibility of approving the parklet on a continuing basis. The Board will discuss next year whether to consider a blanket approval. 68-315 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 11, 2015 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to authorize the installation of the Massachusetts Avenue parklet from May 15, 2015 through October 30, 2015 in the vicinity of the Ride Studio Café. Center Streetscape Presentation Mr. Pato commented that the Center Streetscape Project was controversial at Town Meeting and many concerns were raised by Town Meeting Members on the entire project. Much of the discussion was around the proposed plans for the redesign of the Massachusetts Avenue/Woburn Street intersection and the inclusion of traffic signals. Other concerns were raised, including aesthetic treatments, features, have an architectural historian included as a consultants and the completeness of the design integrating with the Battle Green Master Plan and the streetscape. Many meetings were held over the last four years, but not many before Town Meeting began. There is a lot of interest in the project and for it to proceed; over 60 percent of Town Meeting Members voted in favor of the project as presented and over 2/3 voted against an amendment to eliminate the traffic signal from the plan. This meeting is for Selectmen to discuss issues with the Massachusetts Avenue/Woburn Street intersection; they will not consider other aspects of the streetscape, deferring discussions about aesthetic treatments to later in the year. Tonight will not be a forum for public comment. A public information session has been scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, 2015 where the public can submit written questions. Tonight expect to hear from the engineers about questions raised at Town Meeting, about goals and data that drove the design, alternative designs considered and some suggested by Town Meeting Members and the public. Mr. Kelley, does not share the position the Board has taken on the plans for the intersection and suggested that there should be additional dialogue allowed and two additional information meetings before Labor Day. Mr. Ho, BETA, stated the focus of the presentation would be on the Massachusetts Avenue/ Woburn Street intersection, but he would also touch on the proposed safety improvements for the Massachusetts Avenue/Edison Way and Massachusetts Avenue/Waltham Street intersections. The project limits are Massachusetts Avenue from Miriam Street to the Woburn Street intersection (approximately 2300 feet). The project goals include: improving the safety for all modes of travel, traffic calming (reduce speed), bicycle accommodations, no degradation of level of service and no change in traffic patterns. Discussion points tonight will include: traffic data, existing deficiencies, accident/safety analysis, traffic signal warrant analysis and improvement option evaluation. Mr. Wasielewski, Senior Transportation Engineer with BETA, presented the following information: traffic data, existing traffic volumes, existing turning movement counts, Winthrop Road neighborhood traffic volume, intersection crash history (2008 to 2010), 6 options for the Massachusetts Avenue/Woburn Street/Winthrop Road intersection, traffic analysis and design option comparisons for the intersection. He also reviewed the proposed changes to the Massachusetts Avenue/Edison Way and Massachusetts Avenue/Waltham Street intersections. 68-316 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 11, 2015 Asked about when the traffic counts were done, Mr. Wasielewski responded that the counts were taken the beginning of April in 2013 over a 48 hours period in the middle of the week. Beta also did not look for regional traffic circumstances to include in the count analysis. The analysis includes data on pedestrian accidents. There has been no data for 2015 collected. Asked about whether Woburn Street could accommodate three lanes because of the backlog in the queuing, Mr. Ho responded that it was looked into but would require taking some of the green space and also would increase the length of the crosswalk. Mr. Pato asked about mitigation options for adjoining neighborhoods to the intersection. Mr. Livsey stated they have looked at those issues and if necessary traffic calming can be added. Mr. Wasielewski stated the traffic signal option would be a phased traffic signal so that Woburn Street and Winthrop Road would not move at the same time. Mr. Kelley asked if the consultant had taken into consideration that this project is part of the historic battle road with historical significance. He also believes that pedestrians should not be drawn into intersections to cross. Mr. Ho stated the historical nature of the intersection has been taken into consideration. The proposed traffic signal will only include 2 signal mass arms and the arms and poles will be more decorative and historical. Asked how drainage would be handled if a roundabout was installed, Mr. Wasielewski stated the roundabout reconstruction would include installing drainage to handle the runoff. Asked about response time for police, fire and ambulance, Mr. Wasielewski stated that there would be no preemption option in a roundabout. A traffic signal would include a preemption option so as the emergency vehicles reached the area the lights would stop all traffic. Mr. Pato asked about alternatives to a controlled intersection and what affect a rapid beacon would have on traffic. Mr. Ho responded that the rapid flashing beacon from historical standpoint would be a nuisance because of the way it looks and the strobe lights would affect the neighbors. Because of state requirements it would have to be located near the First Baptist Church and the benefits would be limited because of the bus stop and other amenities further down where pedestrians would not walk that far to cross the street safety. Mr. Livsey feels it is important to have protected crossings at a traffic signal that people feel comfortable using, including those with mobility and vision issues. 68-317 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 11, 2015 Asked about the necessary property takings if a roundabout was installed, Mr. Wasielewski stated Dunkin Donuts would lose some frontage and the sidewalk in front of Russell Square would be 15 feet from the closest building. Ms. Ciccolo asked about the raised islands on Massachusetts Avenue and how they would work for the Patriots’ Day parade. Mr. Wasielewski stated the raised islands create a deflection in the vehicle approach and help to slow traffic down. Asked about pedestrian volumes at the Massachusetts Avenue/Woburn Street intersection, Mr. Wasielewski stated that pedestrian volumes were collected in early April and are included in the analysis which is available to the Town. The proposed Center Streetscape proposal would include 11 crosswalks between Meriam Street and the Massachusetts Avenue/Woburn Street intersection. Mr. Ho stated there is no rule of thumb for the number of crosswalks needed. It depends on the usage and trying to make sure pedestrians do not jaywalk. Mr. Cohen feels it is important to remember that over 20,000 cars travel through the intersection each day and the Town needs to make sure it is safe for all modes of transportation. Asked about a single lane roundabout, Mr. Wasielewski stated that they looked at a smaller roundabout but that it would not accommodate delivery trucks and the volume of users. Asked about cut-through traffic and whether Beta did any modeling to get a sense of what traffic patterns might change, Mr. Ho does not believe the traffic signal would encourage cut-through traffic. The intersection would be improved so that cars do not avoid that intersection. Ms. Barry asked whether there was an analysis for possible cut-through streets on the other side of Massachusetts Avenue like Grant Street and Hayes Lane. Mr. Livsey stated Hayes Lane was not looked at and they did not see any significant changes on Grant Street. Ms. Barry asked that those areas be kept on their radar. Mr. Kelley feels the intersection works now and wonders why the Town is considering this extreme approach to redesign for a two hour a day problem. Mr. Ho stated the typical analysis looks at commuter peak hours and volume from 7 to 9 a.m. and from 4 to 6 p.m. Beta counted vehicles from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. which is what is needed to meet the state requirement for an 8 hour warrant; they did not want to design and install a traffic signal that was only good for 1 to 2 hours and decided on the 8 hour requirement. Mr. Ho stated that any special signage would need to be in conformance with federal highway requirements. Mr. Pato reminded the Board that special signs would not meet ADA requirements for mobility and vision issues and the nearest protected traffic signals are at Munroe School and the Waltham Street intersection. 68-318 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 11, 2015 Ms. Ciccolo asked if the Town had more liability if there were accidents at a non-signaled intersection. Mr. Valente responded that there is a section of the law on public duty and that the state recognizes that the Town has to work within its available resources. Town Celebrations Request for Use of Battle Green and Parade – Memorial Day Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the request of the Town Celebrations Committee for Memorial Day that includes a parade and ceremonies on the Battle Green, as outlined in their letter dated May 1, 2015. Approve Health Insurance Coalition Bargaining Agreement Amendment Ms. Barry recused herself due to a personal interest. Her husband is an employee of the Town of Lexington and covered by the Town’s health plan, as is she. Mr. Valente explained that the Town and the Public Employee Committee (PEC) reached a three-year coalition bargaining agreement for the period FY2016 to FY2018. The Selectmen previously approved the agreement in open session on December 1, 2014. That agreement included a reopener clause that stipulated if the Group Insurance Commission (GIC) eliminated the offering of all PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans, the parties would reopen the agreement for a period of thirty (30) days to negotiate over the impact of the change. The GIC has eliminated the Harvard Pilgrim Independence PPO plan and the Tufts Health Plan Navigator PPO plan. The Town conducted an analysis of the impact of the increases in plan deductibles and copayments and concluded that in FY2016, based on “average health care usage” these increases would be an estimated $570 for each family subscriber and $235 for each individual subscriber. To mitigate the impact of increased costs on employees, the Town and the PEC reached an agreement for the Town to transfer $300,000 to the PEC mitigation fund. The Selectmen approved the agreement in executive session on April 17, 2015. And the PEC membership has since voted to accept this amended agreement. The funds will be used to supplement the existing Health Reimbursement Accounts and will be part of the recommended Fiscal Year 2017 health insurance appropriation. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve and authorize the Town Manager to sign the amended coalition bargaining agreement between the Town and Public Employee committee for the period of FY2016 to FY2018. Approve Regional Housing Services Agreement Amendment Mr. Valente explained that the Regional Housing Services Office (RHSO), which manages all State monitoring and reporting requirements for affordable housing units within the six town 68-319 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 11, 2015 region, is proposing that the Town of Burlington be added to this regional initiative. Currently Lexington, Acton, Bedford, Concord, Sudbury, and Weston make up the RHSO. All the other towns have been unanimous in their support of adding Burlington. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve and sign the amendment authorizing the Town of Burlington to join the Regional Housing Services Office. Approve Letter to MassDOT – Three Intersection Project Mr. Pato recused himself from this discussion because he lives in the corridor where this project is planned. Mr. Cohen, Acting Chairman, asked Ms. Ciccolo to present the proposed letter to MassDOT and will then ask the Board whether the letter should be sent or if they have any comments. Ms. Ciccolo stated that the proposed letter to MassDOT was drafted after the MassDOT hearing last Thursday evening and that there was a limited window to provide public comment. The letter was intended to convey that the Board is interested in advancing the project and intends to work to complete the design by the Federal Fiscal Year 2016 deadline. The letter emphasizes pedestrian safety and the recent Town Meeting votes taken to endorse the resolution for safety and the complete streets to advance pedestrian and bicycle safety. The letter will be revised to include a note why Mr. Pato’s name is not on the letter and to remove reference to “cite data”. Mr. Kelley is looking for additional information on the accident rates that were presented by MassDOT for each of the proposed intersections and does not think we have enough data to include in the letter. He is not in favor of sending the letter. He feels this project is very significant and would change the town significantly. He is concerned the current path requires the Town spend additional planning/design money and get the votes to take right-of-way takings. He suggested slowing the project down and considering improving the corridor in other ways that the community would endorse. Ms. Ciccolo feels Mr. Kelley brings up important issues that need to be better understood. At 25% design there are a lot of issues that will get worked out. The intent of the letter is to let MassDOT know the Town is interested in moving the project forward. She suggests inviting the engineering team to talk with the Board further to understand and clarify issues. Ms. Barry is in favor of sending the letter; the process needs to move forward and the Board needs to have discussions with the engineers. The project also needs to be coordinated with the Center Streetscape project and the consultants working on both projects need to talk with one another. 68-320 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 11, 2015 Mr. Kanter attended the MassDOT presentation and confirmed that the signal by the East Lexington Fire Station would be changed to include a pedestrian activated signal only. At 25% design they were expecting only construction right-of-ways, no permanent takings. He urges the Board to sign and send the letter. Ms. Ciccolo explained that temporary right-of-ways are often done and only gives permission to allow MassDOT to be on property to make it possible to do things like pavement connections and reseeding grass areas. Ms. McKenna, 9 Hancock Street, Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member, is concerned that the Town is not discussing the entire corridor from the Battle Green all the way to the Pleasant Street/Massachusetts Avenue intersection. Discussions need to include Scenic Byway and Freedom’s Way and acknowledging that the roadway is historic. Decisions need to be made carefully when considering changing the character of the community. It is inappropriate for the Board to send a letter at this point asking for funding. Mr. Cohen pointed out that the Board hears from residents who support the project as well as those that do not support this project. Mr. Kelley feels this project is more significant than the Center Streetscape Project and the community needs to have presentations by MassDOT before the letter is sent. Mr. Groblewski, 1115 Massachusetts Avenue, feels that MassDOT has not taken enough community input into consideration, such as looking at possible cut-through streets and considering how residents will be able to back out of their driveways and side streets. MassDOT should also consider traffic calming measures, raising crosswalks and narrowing roadways. He feels the area needs safer walkways and safer controls, like stop signs, without installing traffic lights. He urged the Board to not send the letter until they hear from more of the community. Mr. Levison, Co-Chair of the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC), stated that the concerns of the TAC include the availability, efficiency, and safe use of public transportation in Lexington. They feel that the enhancements of the Marrett Road and Massachusetts Avenue intersection, in particular, will enhance access to the new Community Center by allowing safer crossing of Massachusetts Avenue at that intersection. They also expect that the project overall will improve traffic flow in town and facilitate the on-time performance of both the MBTA and Lexpress buses. TAC encourages the Selectmen to approve the letter to MassDOT supporting the three intersection project. TAC also plans to send a letter of support directly to MassDOT. Mr. Phinney, 1139 Massachusetts Avenue, lives near the Massachusetts Avenue/Marrett Road intersection and sees and hears the number of accidents at the intersection because there currently is only a yield sign. He suggested that at least a stop sign should be installed. Mr. Cohen asked the Town Manager to check on the possibility of a stop sign being installed at the Massachusetts Avenue/Marrett Road intersection. 68-321 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 11, 2015 Mr. Cohen currently does not support the letter being sent as it is written even if it is after the comment period; the Board needs some additional information and the letter needs to be reworded some. Ms. Ciccolo stated that the comment window ends before the Board’s next meeting which means the community will not be on record with its intent to move the project forward. Mr. Kelley hopes the Board does not send the letter. There is too much uncertainty and lack of transparency for the Board to take the position the letter suggests. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 2-2 (Kelley and Cohen opposed) to send the proposed letter to MassDOT regarding the Massachusetts Avenue Roadway Reconstruction Project asking for their assistance to accelerate the MassDOT internal reviews necessary for the project to move to 100% with PS&E drawings. The motion did not pass. Mr. Pato returned to the meeting. Selectmen Committee Appointment/Resignation Human Services Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to appoint Bonnie TenPas to the Human Services Committee to fill the unexpired term of Stephanie Lawrence until September 30, 2016. Housing Partnership Board Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to accept the resignation of Erica Endye from the Housing Partnership Board, effective immediately. Approve Farmers’ Market Winery Licenses for 2015 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve and sign a special license for Coastal Vineyards to sell/serve wine at the Lexington Farmers’ Market from May 26, 2015 through November 19, 2015 only on Tuesdays from 2:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve and sign a special license for Turtle Creek Winery to sell/serve wine at the Lexington Farmers’ Market from May 26, 2015 through October 27, 2015 only on Tuesdays from 2:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Approve Limousine License Renewals Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the application and issue one (1) Limousine License to Fusco Enterprises, LLC d/b/a Back Bay Sedan Services, 37 Woburn Street, subject to receiving a favorable Inspection Report from the Police Department. 68-322 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 11, 2015 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the application and issue one (1) Limousine License to Boyadjian Limousine Service, 447 Lowell Street subject to receiving a favorable Inspection Report from the Police Department. Approve Common Victualler License for New Owner of Lexington House of Pizza Lexington House of Pizza has a new owner, Alved Corp, this new Common Victualler will reflect the new ownership. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 top approve a Common Victualler for Alved Corp d/b/a Lexington House of Pizza, 339 Lowell Street. Consent Agenda Commitment of Water and Sewer Charges Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the following commitment of water and sewer charges: Commitment of Water and Sewer charges Section 1, March 2015 $1,817,006.88 Sign Proclamations – EMS Week and Father Colletti Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to sign a proclamation for Emergency Medical Services Week, May 17 to 23, 2015, and encourage all citizens to join in recognizing the Fire Department Emergency Medical Service Providers. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to sign a proclamation for Father Colletti’s Retirement honoring him for his many years of service and wishing him well on retirement. Approve One-Day Liquor License for St. Brigid/Sacred Heart Parishes Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve a one-day liquor license for St. Brigid/Sacred Heart to serve wine for Father Colletti’s retirement celebration on Sunday, May 17, 2015, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at St. Brigid Church. Approve Three-Day Liquor License for St. Nicholas Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve a three-day liquor license for St. Nicholas Church to serve all alcohol for a Food Festival Fundraiser on Friday and Saturday, September 18 and 19, 2015 from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 20, 2015 at St. Nicholas Church. Approve One-Day Liquor License for St. Brigid Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve a one-day liquor license for St. Brigid to serve wine at the sodality Annual Banquet on Wednesday, May 27, 2015, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at St. Brigid-Keilty Hall. 68-323 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 11, 2015 Approve Minutes and Executive Session Minutes Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the minutes of February 10, 2015, February 11, 2015, February 23, 2015, February 25, 2015, March 4, 2015, March 9, 2015, March 23, 2015, March 25, 2015, March 30, 2015, April 1, 2015, April 6, 2015, April 8, 2015, April 13, 2015, and April 15, 2015. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the executive session minutes of March 4, 2015, March 30, 2015, April 1, 2015, April 6, 2015, April 13, 2015, April 15, 2015, and April 17, 2015. Approve and Sign Eagle Congratulations Letters Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to send letters of commendation congratulating the Boy Scouts from Troop 119, Stephen Cooke, Timothy Weeks and Vasilios Katsarakes, for attaining the highest rank of Eagle in Boy Scouting. Executive Session Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 by roll call to go into executive session to consider: 1) ongoing litigation regarding U.S. Lighting; and 2) the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property at the Muzzey Senior Center, and to reconvene in open session only to adjourn. Further, the Chairman declared that an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating and negotiating position of the Town. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to adjourn at 10:45 p.m. A true record; Attest: Lynne A. Pease Executive Clerk 68-324 Selectmen’s Meeting May 18, 2015 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, May 18, 2015, at 7:00 p.m. in the Selectmen Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Chairman Pato, Mr. Kelley, Mr. Cohen, Ms. Ciccolo and Ms. Barry; and Mr. Valente, Town Manager; and Ms. Pease, Executive Clerk, were present. Selectmen Concerns and Liaison Reports Mr. Kelley reminded the Board and the community that on May 27 the Dana Home Foundation rd will hold its 3 Annual Grant Awards. They have made significant contributions to programs for seniors in the community by donating over $700,000 to projects and programs. Ms. Ciccolo reported that the Planning Board is holding a Forum on Residential Policy for Lexington on May 27 at Clarke Middle School at 7:00 p.m. It is a listening session for residents to voice their opinions and provide input into policy setting for the Planning Board. Ms. Ciccolo also reported that the Sidewalk Committee is holding a public hearing on Wednesday, May 27, at 7:00 p.m. in the Parker Room to take public comment on a proposed sidewalk installation on Hill Street. Ms. Barry reported that the Lexington Housing Assistance Board has heard that all the necessary paperwork for the Fairview project has been processed and they can now apply for a building permit. Ms. Barry would like the Board to discuss at a future meeting whether they want to come up with a list of values or goals to help guide decisions at goal setting. She will send to the Board the list of core values put together several years ago. Mr. Pato intends to put the values/goal discussion on the June 1 agenda. He also announced that the Goal Setting meeting has been scheduled for July 1. Mr. Pato reminded the Board that the Town Manager’s annual review is due the end of June. He will send out last year’s review as a refresher and asked the Board to send comments on the Town Manager’s performance to him only. He will put together the full review and for approval at the June 29 meeting. Mr. Pato attended the Living Wage March that the 9-year old organized and reported that it went well and was well attended. Mr. Pato reported that the Vision 2020 Diversity Group had a meeting to review the goals and recommendations presented earlier to staff and organizations on diversity and what processes might help increase inclusiveness for all in the community. 68-325 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 18, 2015 Mr. Pato acknowledged and appreciates the number of emails received by the Board with comments on the road and improvements and safety project plans. Mr. Pato reminded the community that the June 10 public meeting at 7:30 p.m. will focus on the Woburn Street/Massachusetts Avenue intersection. The Board will discuss the intersection later on this agenda. Town Manager Report Mr. Valente shared some photos on the progress of the Community Center construction both inside and outside. Accept Donation from Rotary for Community Center Ms. Ciccolo thanked the Rotary Club of Lexington for their generous donation of $17,000 to purchase two professional grade billiard tables and equipment for the Community Center. These new billiard tables will make it possible to hold tournaments at the Community Center. Mr. Eagle, Chair of the Rotary Club of Lexington Endowment, along with other Rotary Members: Ms. Leary, Mr. Sacco, Mr. Busa and Mr. Siekman, presented the Selectmen with a check for $17,000. Mr. Eagle explained that the Rotary is happy to be able to raise funds to help the Town when they can. This year they were able to also make donations to the Police, Fire, Library, Historic Districts and Supportive Living of Lexington. The check will be displayed at the Community Center. Discussion of School District Building Projects Plan Mr. Pato provide updates to the Board on the School Building Project plans: 1.Action items arising from the Friday, May 8 pre-summit meeting include the following items to be discussed at the July Summits: a.Design Team Summit Presentation b.What’s the strategy? c.School Committee presentation of redistricting study. d.School Department update on school enrollment projections. e.Investigate improved utilization of existing spaces. f.Explanation of how Master Plan study was used going forward. g.Presentation – Have we proceeded from Spring Special Town Meeting consistent with matrix presented for the $4,080,000 appropriation? h.Indication that the School District and School Committee endorse the Design Team’s Summit presentation recommended approaches. 68-326 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 18, 2015 2.He mentioned that there is an existing property that the Town is looking at for leasing opportunities for the Pre-K. 3.Project team is making a presentation to the School Committee on May 19. 4.A Project web site is now available from the quick links on the Lexington Public Schools website or at http://www.lexingtonmultipleprojects.com. This link will also be added to the Town’s webpage. Presentation on Westminster Avenue/Lowell Street Intersection Mr. Kucharsky, Transportation Planner, and Mr. Cannon, Assistant Town Engineer, presented the proposed traffic and pedestrian safety improvements for the Westminster Avenue/Lowell Street intersection. The public was invited to view and comment on a preliminary concept plan that included new sidewalks, a crosswalk and a reconfiguration of the intersection at the July 8, 2014 Traffic Safety Advisory Committee meeting. On September 12, Planning and Engineering staff met with a representative of LexFarm and the resident of 48 Lowell Street at the site to refine the concept plan. On March 10, 2015 a public meeting was held to review the proposed changes. The proposed plan includes a neck down and bump-out at the end of Westminster Avenue and changing it to a T-intersection. Lowell Street will be narrow to help reduce speeds and improve site distance from Westminster Avenue. A sidewalk will be added between Litchfield Road to Haskell Street. Two crosswalks will be installed; one across Lowell Street near the LexFarm parking lot entrance and one at the end of Haskell Street. The project also includes closing off part of the entrance to the LexFarm parking lot by building two sections of sidewalk. Pedestrian signage will also be added at the Lowell Street crosswalk to LexFarm. The work is scheduled to be done this construction season. Mr. Kelley asked if a sidewalk could be added between Westminster Avenue and Haskell Street. Ms. Ciccolo is pleased at how quickly this project has been moved forward. She agreed with Mr. Kelley about adding the sidewalk between Westminster Avenue and Haskell Street, but does not want to hold up the construction as currently planned. But if there is any money left over she hopes the sidewalk can be added. Ms. Reed, 15 Westminster Avenue, attended the public meeting and asked about a sidewalk from Westminster Avenue to Haskell because her daughter’s bus stop is at Haskell Street which is a dangerous walk; it would be much safer if a sidewalk was installed. She also mentioned that the Traffic Committee in Arlington will be meeting soon to discuss. Mr. Gabrenya, 29 Partridge Road, representing the LexFarm Board, stated they are thrilled to see that the crosswalk will be close to the farm. He asked if the project will include painted lines for the LexFarm parking lot, which would be very helpful. Mr. Cannon stated the project did not include painting lines on the LexFarm parking lot. Mr. Pato responded that the Board has heard his request. 68-327 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 18, 2015 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the proposed traffic and pedestrian safety improvements at the Westminster Avenue/Lowell Street intersection, with the inclusion of the extra piece of sidewalk between Haskell and Westminster Avenue if sufficient funds are available in the budget. Youth Services Programing Ms. Rodgers, Human Services Director, and Ms. Fields, Co-Chair of the Human Services Committee, provided a response to the Ad Hoc Committee for Youth at Risk Report and Recommendations. Three major themes were pulled out from the Executive Summary Recommendations for Reducing Stress, Building Resiliency and Improving Services for Our Youth Report: 1.Leadership and Organization – Youth Services Council (YSC), which brings together municipal, school and community leaders with the major role of identifying unmet needs, planning and coordinating programs. The YSC brings together a group of 18 professionals and 5 student members and facilitates interdepartmental collaboration and community participation. There recommendations are communicated to the Human Services Committee and the Human Services Director who reports to the Town Manager and Selectmen. 2.Youth and Family Programming Current Initiatives – The Human Services Department collaborates with the Lexington Public Schools staff to plan and promote a variety of educational programs for youth and parents. Counseling and Case Management – The Human Services Department staff provide 3. accessible, no cost counseling, consultation and case management to Lexington residents of all ages. They have embraced a holistic approach where staff can immediately connect a family with critical resources and provide case management services. The Human Services Department recommends that the report of the Ad Hoc Committee for Youth at Risk be referred to the Youth Services Council so the identified areas of need are addressed. The YSC should use the report as a guide to develop future efforts for education and programming and to develop a work plan. Opportunities for expansion and coordination of services for youth and families will be enhanced and implemented at the new Lexington Community Center. Information and recommendations from the Youth Services Council should be communicated to the Human Services Committee as part of the process and then to the Town Manager and Selectmen. Mr. Cohen feels the Human Services Department has made a lot of progress with coordination between the Town and Schools. Also some of the recommendations in the Youth Report are already being done by the Human Services Committee. He feels the YSC will be able to review the recommendations and address the issues that need to be addressed. 68-328 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 18, 2015 Mr. Kelley suggests that an organization chart is needed between the Human Services Department and the Schools in order to monitor and track situations from year to year as they develop. Ms. Rodgers agrees that tracking is very important and that the Town needs to create an organization chart and improve the clarity of where information goes, have goals and results to keep track of measurable outcomes. The Board will absorb the information provided before taking any action and expects this topic to be part of goal setting on July 1. Ms. Steigerwald, School Committee Chair, asked the Board to consider joining a June 2 meeting with the School Committee and an outside consultant that was hired to discuss the present challenges being faced by the schools and help come up with a common goal working together. The School Committee feels the Subcommittee Report brought up a lot of issues the schools don’t feel they can solve on their own and that the need coordination with the entire community with a broader coalition than the current Youth Services Council. Mr. Kelley would like the Youth Services Council to come back to the Board after the June 2 meeting and to also see if an organization chart can be put together that shows where the needs are and how successful the Town is in resolving the needs. Ms. Barry and Mr. Cohen will attend the June 2 meeting representing the Selectmen. Center Streetscape Project – Meriam Street to Police Station Mr. Pato clarified that the Board has been very transparent when discussing the Center Streetscape proposed traffic light at the Woburn Street/Massachusetts Avenue intersection. It is a key value of the Selectmen and all discussions have been and will continue to be held in public. The Board discussed a proposed public session preparation task list for the Woburn Street/Massachusetts Avenue intersection that includes: outreach plan, information session format, presentation content, communication plan and planning for fall public sessions. Mr. Pato asked the Board to grant him latitude to write a guest commentary for the Lexington Minuteman to provide more public awareness about the June 10 public meeting. Mr. Pato proposed that the format of the June 10 public meeting include: introduction by the Board, presentation by Engineering, and the answering of written questions and follow-up questions. Communication will continue by responding to questions, putting issues up on the Town’s webpage (FAQs) and the opportunity to look at what other residents have concerns about. There will also be a dedicated email address for this topic. 68-329 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 18, 2015 Ms. Barry was concerned about the timeline and when residents would be notified. Mr. Pato responded there would be a meeting notice in the Lexington Minuteman on May 19 and also plans to send out information regarding the June 10 meeting by email as soon as possible. Mr. Kelley appreciates the process as outlined. He asked that the June 10 meeting be posted on the public meeting calendar on the Town’s webpage. He also feels residents should be able to ask questions and make comments; he is not in favor of residents having to submit written questions. He wants residents to be able to ask questions earlier in the meeting. Mr. Cohen agrees that everyone should be notified of the meetings, not just the abutters. He reminded the Board that the Center Streetscape project has been around since before the 2012 Annual Town Meeting and the Board has been very transparent. He agrees that residents should not be required to submit written questions. Ms. Ciccolo suggested using the police message board as part of the outreach plan to alert residents about the public meetings. She also suggested using Facebook and Twitter. She suggests a time certain for the presentation and questions portion of the meeting. It is important for residents to express their concerns, ideas and suggestions. She also suggested that an email subscription be available for this project. Mr. Pato stated staff is working on a general communication strategy for electronic and other media and that this is the beginning of that process without the benefit of it all being in place yet. Ms. Barry suggested that the June 10 meeting should be focused on hearing from the community. The residents need time to digest the presentation information. Ms. Ciccolo suggested a 30 minute presentation followed by questions to clarify presentation and then an open mic for the remainder of the meeting. Mr. Pato wants to be able to distinguish between information questions and statements of positions. The Board has no objections to Mr. Pato writing the guest commentary for the Lexington Minuteman as long as they receive a copy of it before it goes to the editor. Mr. Kelley suggested that the Town should consider removing the utility poles and putting the utility lines underground during this project. The Board needs to look at many items for the Center Streetscape project and can include removing the utility poles when discussed at a future meeting. Ms. Barry asked if there would be value engineering done for the Center Streetscape project so that the Board can review the list to see what makes sense and what does not. 68-330 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 18, 2015 Ms. Enders, Kimball Road and Precinct 8 Town Meeting Member, requested that the Board clarify the differences between the Woburn Street/Massachusetts Avenue traffic light project as part of the Center Streetscape and the State project for the three intersections in East Lexington. Ms. McKenna, 9 Hancock Street, Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member, requested that the Selectmen include the Battle Green Master Plan in the Center Streetscape Project. She thought the June 10 meeting was to discuss all the proposed traffic signals and she suggested that residents would be confused. She thinks the June 10 meeting should include discussion of the entire length of Massachusetts Avenue from the Battle Green to Pleasant Street in East Lexington since it is the Battle Road Scenic Byway. She thinks this is too important an issue to rush. Ms. Ciccolo feels the Board needs to begin the conversation. She suggested it may be helpful if Beta brings some display boards for residents to view before the meeting and be able to discuss casually with Town officials and Beta. Mr. Canale, Battle Road Scenic Byway Committee, thinks it is important to clarify that the Center Streetscape Project and specifically the Woburn Street/Massachusetts Avenue traffic signal is part of the Battle Road Scenic Byway and needs to be described to residents in that context. It is important not to compare the project with the section of the Byway from Marrett Road to Pleasant Street which is a different piece of the Byway compared to the Center. Conflict of Interest Obligations for Committee Members – Mass. Avenue Intersection Project Mr. Pato explained that committee members who reside in the Massachusetts Avenue Intersection project corridor may be subject to the provisions of the conflict of interest law. The conflict of interest law, GL c. 268A is intended to prevent among other things, self-dealing. Section 19 of the conflict law generally prohibits a municipal employee (paid or unpaid, appointed or elected, full-time or part-time) from participating in any particular matter in which the municipal employee, an immediate family member of partner, or a business organization in which he or she has certain affiliations, has a financial interest. The exemption most often available for appointed municipal employees is §19(b)(1). A municipal employee who first advises his or her appointing authority of the nature and circumstances of the particular matter, makes full disclosure of the financial interest and then receives in advance a written determination made by the appointing authority may act in matters in which he or she would otherwise be prohibited from participating. This exemption is not available to elected municipal employees because they do not have an appointing authority. The determination made by the appointing authority is that “the interest is not so substantial as to be deemed likely to affect the integrity of the services which the municipality may expect” from the employee. Whether the municipal official receives the written determination rests solely with the appointing authority. The Ethics Commission has no role in making the determination. 68-331 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 18, 2015 Approve Letter to MassDOT – East Mass. Avenue Intersection Project On advice of attorney of the day at State Ethics Commission, Mr. Pato recused himself because his property abuts the proposed project and there is a perception of financial interest. He plans to sit in the audience and can participate as a citizen. Mr. Cohen, Acting Chairman, asked if the Board would approve sending a letter to MassDOT regarding the Massachusetts Avenue Roadway Reconstruction Project from Pleasant Street to Marrett Road asking for their assistance to accelerate the MassDOT internal reviews necessary for the project to move to 100% with PS&E drawings. Ms. Ciccolo explained that she drafted the proposed letter making sure it was factual and clear and did not endorse any specific design. The letter carefully describes the project to date and that the Town is grateful for scheduling the project for funding and that the Town intends to work to complete the design after listening to the concerns of the public. A new webpage was created specifically for this project with links to MassDOT Comment Forms and places where citizens can give additional input. She explained that the project is very early in the process and is only at 25 percent design so there will be many additional opportunities for comment and input into the design. Public Works is working on refining the scope and meetings will be scheduled in the fall. Mr. Cohen stated that TIP Funds come from the Federal and State government and many communities try to receive TIP funds. All of the comments/concerns submitted by residents will be considered as the project design moves from 25 percent to 100 percent, which will take many more months. Ms. Barry asked what the proper channel for residents is to handle the concerns they have been emailing the Board about regarding cut-through traffic, speed and safety of kids walking/biking. Mr. Valente stated that residents can get together and submit requests to the Transportation Safety Group or the Selectmen can ask the TSG to look into. The TSG is made up of residents and from Police, Engineering and Schools. They review the matter, study it and bring recommendation back to the Selectmen. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to send a request to the Transportation Safety Group to meet with residents of the Follen Hill neighborhood to discuss concerns surrounding cut through traffic, speed traffic, speed humps, pedestrian safety and sidewalks issues. Ms. Ciccolo also suggested discussing this issue with engineering since they will need to consider what data and counts they need for designing the project. Mr. Cohen suggested that police should check the speed in the Follen Hill neighborhood. 68-332 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 18, 2015 Ms. Hai, Precinct 4, asked the Board to consider outreach to all side streets that might be considered for cut-through traffic. Mr. Cohen supports sending a letter to MassDOT as currently proposed. The project design needs to be completed to see what is best to provide pedestrian safety and allowing Pleasant Street, Maple Street and Marrett Road traffic easier access to Massachusetts Avenue. Mr. Kelley does not support sending the letter to MassDOT. He feels it is too early in the process. He wants clarifications on how many traffic lights the plan currently includes. He is concerned that the current light for the Fire Station will become a full light system. Ms. Ciccolo clarified that MassDOT will continue to take comments regarding this project. Engineering is planning a public participation process and the Selectmen will participate in the process. Revised plans will be released at different benchmarks and there will be more opportunities for the community to see, review and comment on the plan as they change. Mr. Kelley is not convinced that the current 25 percent designed plan will change much before it is finalized. He feels Lexington is a famous community and Massachusetts Avenue is the Battle Road. Mr. Cohen stated the Town does not have to go through with the proposed project if it does not like the design. The Town needs to complete the design to 100 percent to see if there is a plan that will work for Lexington. Mr. Canale, Lexington’s Designee to the Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), stated that MPO approves the funding for TIP projects and they will continue to include comments they receive until they trickle off. The state contributes 20 percent and the federal government contributes 80 percent to TIP projects. Ms. Lapointe, 224 Follen Road, does not think traffic lights are necessary. She would like more original ideas discussed for dealing with the traffic on Massachusetts Avenue. Mr. Davidson, 222 Follen Road, believes that concentrating on the Pleasant Street intersection will create safety issues on Follen Road. Mr. Rodolfo, 220 Follen Road, feels it is very important to consider the implications to the neighborhood of cut-through traffic when designing the project. Ms. Bartcsh, 205 Follen Road, found out about this project two weeks ago. There was no direct notice and there is no recognition of the issues of Follen Road on the current plan. She feels the Engineering staff will not acknowledge the plan will affect Follen Road. She is against the traffic signal project because it will increase the cut-through traffic on Follen Road. She mentioned a traffic safety request she submitted in 2009 for a stop sign at the corner of Locust Avenue and Follen Road where she was told it could not happen. 68-333 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 18, 2015 Mr. Cohen asked the Town Manager to look into why a stop sign could not be added to Follen Road/Locust Avenue. Mr. Valente said requests for stop signs have to meet certain criteria of MUTCD. He will check on the 2009 request and also see if traffic has changed since then that would then warrant the installation of a stop sign. Mr. Mooney, 1145 Massachusetts Avenue, is concerned that communication with residents has been poor. He believes cut-through traffic will be a big issue for Follen Road. He suggested the Board have more dialogue with residents before sending the letter to MassDOT. Ms. Rosentha1, 208 Follen Road, complained about the meeting with the Engineering staff and asked why the Follen Road neighborhood was not notified of the meeting. She believes Follen Road should be considered part of the project. On a daily basis Follen Road residents have to deal with cut-through traffic from all directions and it is worse in the winter with high snow piles and difficulty getting out of driveways. She does not believe traffic lights will help. Mr. Cohen believes the Town needs to look at all roads that are or may be used for cut-through traffic. The proposed letter does not mean the project as presented is a done deal. All comments, concerns and suggestions will be looked into before the 100 percent design is complete. Mr. Kelley suggests going through more of the process to get ideas before sending the letter to MassDOT. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 3-1 (Mr. Kelley opposed) to send the proposed letter with minor corrections to MassDOT regarding the Massachusetts Avenue Roadway Reconstruction Project asking for their assistance to accelerate the MassDOT internal reviews necessary for the project to move to 100 percent with PS&E drawings. Town Meeting Preparation Process Ms. Barry asked the Board to review the following procedures before the next Special or Annual Town Meeting: Delivery of Warrant. There were issues with the Annual Town Meeting Warrant being delivered to residents prior to the start of Town Meeting. Mr. Pato suggests the Board look at alternative ways to provide the warrant information and look at how the bylaw could be changed. 68-334 Selectmen’s Meeting – May 18, 2015 Publishing Selectmen Positions on Articles Prior to Town Meeting. A Town Meeting Member mentioned it was difficult to know what the Board’s positions were on articles and asked if it was possible for the Board to provide a report with positions/statements similar to what the Appropriation Committee and Capital Expenditures Committee provide. Mr. Pato stated that the Selectmen’s current positions are included in the Board’s packets before each Town Meeting Session; however, residents do not have easy access to the Board’s positions or why they took the position they did. Ms. Ciccolo felt it would be good to get the Board’s positions out earlier, but not sure feasible because of when information is received. Sometimes the Board cannot take a position until additional information is provided at Town Meeting. The Board cannot commit but should think about before the next Annual Town Meeting. Mr. Kelley sometimes likes to keep his position undeclared until after Town Meeting debate. Mr. Cohen agrees that the Board cannot commit. Budget and capital items are always changing and the Town Manager and Finance Staff are on a tight schedule during Town Meeting. Mr. Pato feels the key concerns of the community were the Board should try to get its position articulated on paper before Town Meeting begins and make it easily available. He agrees there will be times when some of the Board members will want to wait to take a position until it is discussed at Town Meeting. He suggests having a stretch goal to get some information out that speaks to the policy questions. The Board will discuss further at the Goal Setting meeting and discuss a more formalized schedule on how to proceed. Ms. Barry suggested that the vote on the budget should be a time certain article taken up early in the evening. Mr. Pato will take under advisement. Ms. Barry suggested a standard be set for presentations (fonts, colors, etc.) at Town Meeting. She asked the Town Manager to work with staff. The Board felt the Consent Agenda at Town Meeting worked really well and hopes it can be done every year. The Consent Agenda will vary from year to year but the Board should try to look at additional articles that could be included. Ms. Hai, Chair, Capital Expenditures Committee (CEC), requested the Board’s guidance for warrant articles. The CEC would like to receive feedback from the Board on capital articles after st they are presented at the 1 summit. Knowing the Board’s policy view would be helpful in weighting projects against each other. Mr. Pato stated the Board would strive to provide feedback but that there will be limits to what information can be provided. 68-335 Selectmen’s Meeting - May18, 2015 Send Letter to State with Resolution on Fossil Fuel Divestment Ms. Barry recused herself and left the meeting room due to a personal interest. Her husband is an employee of the Town of Lexington and a participant in the Town’s retirement plan. At the 2015 Annual Town Meeting Article 44 (Resolution on Fossil Fuel Divestment) passed. The resolution asks those who manage Lexington’s Retirement and Trust Funds: to assess the Town’s fossil fuel exposure; if deemed financially responsible, to divest over a 5-year period by selling any direct holdings in the 200 publicly traded companies with the largest carbon reserves; and to notify the managers of mutual funds that Lexington seeks divestment. The resolution further asks the Selectmen to support financially responsible divestment of the Massachusetts Pension Reserve Investment Trust Fund and to send copies of the resolution to Lexington’s federal and state representatives. The Board agreed that the Chair should write a letter conveying Town Meeting’s request to convey the resolution to Lexington’s federal and state representatives. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to authorize the Chair to send a copy of Town Meeting’s resolution to Lexington’s state and federal representatives with a cover letter from the Board. Ms. Barry returned to the meeting. Selectmen Committee Appointments Human Services Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to appoint Pamela Joshi to the Human Services Committee for a term to expire September 30, 2017. Planning Board Subcommittee on Housing Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to appoint Joe Pato and Michelle Ciccolo as the Selectmen Liaison to the Planning Board Subcommittee on Housing. Town Manager Appointment – Recreation Committee Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve the Town Manager’s reappointment of Sandra Shaw to the Recreation Committee for a term to expire May 31, 2018. Future Meetings The Selectmen discussed scheduling meetings for July 13, July 27, August 3, August 24, and August 31. 68-336 Selectmen’s Meeting - May18, 2015 Consent Agenda Use of Battle Green – Travel Channel Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to approve a request from Half Yard Productions to use the Battle Green on June 2 for filming a history travelogue series for the show “Time Traveling with Brian Unger”. Accept Terms of the Robin Elizabeth Glabe Scholarship Fund Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to accept the terms of the Robin Elizabeth Glabe Scholarship Fund that will be managed by the Trustees of Public Trusts. Accept Terms of the William Stetler Nichols Scholarship Fund Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to accept the terms of the William Stetler Nichols Scholarship Fund that will be managed by the Trustees of Public Trusts. Designate Members of Grain Mill Alley Steering Committee as Special Municipal Employees Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to designate members of the Grain Mill Alley Steering Committee as Special Municipal Employees. Executive Session Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 by roll call to go into executive session to consider potential sites for public safety facilities and proposed changes to the Munroe Center for the Arts, and to reconvene in open session only to adjourn. Further the Chairman declared that an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating and negotiating position of the Town. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 to adjourn at 11:30 p.m. A true record; Attest: Lynne A. Pease Executive Clerk