HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-05-19-SBFRC-rpt (final) RECEIVED
2022 25 May, dS ui "m
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TOWN CLERK
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LEXINGTON MA
SELECT BOARD OFFICE
JILL I.HAI,CHAIR
JOSEPH N.PATO
SUZANNE E.BARRY
DOUGLAS M.LUCENTE TEL: (781)698-4580
MARK D.SANDEEN FAX: (781)863-9468
May 24, 2022
To whom it may concern,
As Executive Clerk to the Lexington Select Board, I certify the following:
At its duly called and publicly posted meeting of May 23, 2022, the Select Board voted by roll call to
accept the attached final report of the Ad Hoc Stone Building Feasibility Reuse committee dated May
19, 2022.
Sincerely,
Kim Katzenback
Executive Clerk
1625 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE• LEXINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02420
Email:selectboard@lexingtonma.gov
RECEIVED
2022 25 May, airy"i
TOWN CLERK
LEXINGTON MA
STONE BUILDING FEASIBILITY / RE-USE COMMITTEE
REPORT
FINAL REPORT May 19, 2022
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 4
INTRODUCTION 5
History and Significance of the Stone Building 5
Recent history 6
Stone Building Feasibility/Re-use Committee Formation 7
COMMITTEE GOALS &OBJECTIVES 8
METHODOLOGY 9
Market Demand 9
Feasibility 10
FINDINGS 11
Market Demand 11
Public Forums 11
Concept Rankings 11
Community Conversations, and Public Surveys 12
Community Proposals 13
Feasibility 14
VISION FOR BUILDING REUSE 16
Vision 16
Values 16
Programmatic Components 17
Operational Components 17
Anticipated Audiences 18
CONCLUSIONS 19
NEXT STEPS 21
Phase 1: June 2022-April 2025 21
Phase 2: 2025-2030 22
APPENDICES 23
1. A Brief History of the Stone Building (Infographic) 24
2. Ad Hoc Stone Building Feasibility& Re-use Committee Charge 25
3. Historic Property Leases & Management-Six Case Studies 27
4. Lexington Historic Building Ownership Models 30
5. Community Feedback-forums, emails, etc. 31
6. East Village Fair (October 2021) 34
7. Concept Rankings 36
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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8. Community Conversations 40
9. Community Reports 43
10. Received Proposals 46
11. Case Studies 57
12. 2020 Community Needs Assessment (Summary) 63
13. Review of Financial Models 73
14. Updating Bid Documents 74
15. Floor Area Breakdown 76
16. Letters of Support 77
17. Cary Library Board of Trustees- Memo 5/18 90
Bibliography 92
Proposed Restoration Plan, Historic Structures Report
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Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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The Stone Building, located at 735 Massachusetts Avenue in Lexington, MA, is an historic
public building deeded to the town in 1892. Used as a branch library for more than a century,
it has been closed due to water damage since August 2007. The Stone Building
Feasibility/Reuse Committee (SFC), established by the Lexington Select Board, worked
from late 2020 through the spring of 2022 to review community interest and scenarios for
reopening the building.
After receiving feedback from public forums, proposals submitted by residents, and
communications from stakeholders,the SBFRC has concluded that the Town should begin
restoration work immediately and appoint or hire a coordinator to oversee the
recommendations of this report at least at the outset.
The SBFRC urges the Town to return the building to its original purpose as a Lyceum, a place
for learning and engagement, updated for modern users, as the overarching concept for the
building's reuse. We envision a welcoming place where organizations and individuals
connect and are inspired to create positive change in the local community and beyond. This
space is envisioned as a place for historical interpretation, a destination for residents of all
ages to gather and socialize, and a space for lectures and performances in a renovated
Lyceum hall. Social and racial justice should inform all planning and programming.
Partnerships and collaboration are key. any civic organizations and municipal departments
have come forward in support of this vision. Letters of support can be found in.A 1p..2! Jx 16
..........P.... ...............................
of this report.
The Town of Lexington is fortunate to have CPA funds to support community restoration
work. This,together with other possible grants and private fundraising, can support
restoration to lead to occupancy of the Stone Building. While grants and fees can help
support future programming, at this time it is too early to determine what exact financial
model will best support operations to sustain the proposed vision. As the restoration moves
forward to completion, further work will be required to develop private-public partnerships
using models in this report as guides. It is believed that the Town/Library Trustees will need
to incubate the building's rehabilitation and revitalization.
Successful building revitalization will require commitment to this work by the Town and the
Library Trustees. Our committee urges these groups to clearly outline and communicate
their individual responsible ownership and management roles so that decisions and
progress can be made which aligns with the recommendations in this report.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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III VIII """'"""VIII'° VIII' I """'"""VIII VIII
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The Stone Building is of national significance because of it origins as a Lyceum, its architectural
significance, and its place in the history of East Lexington, including anti-slavery and efforts.
A visual timeline overviewing the period from 1833 to the present is presented in pp, irk, ii ,,,,,1 -A
Brief History of the Stone Building
• Commissioned in 1833 by Eli Robbins, a prominent businessman,the Stone Building
provided a place in Lexington where Lyceum lectures, preaching, and other meetings
could be held, and where freedom of speech could be allowed.
Example of Greek Revival architecture that drew inspiration from classical antiquity.
Constructed by architect-builder Isaac Melvin with details from Asher Benjamin's pattern
books, which were brand new at the time. The building's design at the time was also
consistent with Eli Robbins's forward-looking vision for East Lexington, embodied in the
building's function as a Lyceum venue.
• One of the few surviving Lyceum lecture halls in the United States. Lyceums (inspired by
Aristotle's ancient Lyceum in Athens) were an early form of adult education with the idea
that personal growth through education and intellectual exploration should be made
available to all, regardless of background or station in life.
• Notable speakers lectured in the Stone Building. In addition to Lyceum lecturers who
spoke on wide-ranging topics,the building was the first home to the congregation that
would later move to the neighboring Follen Church. Speakers included Ralph Waldo
Emerson,John Dwight,John Pierpoint,Theodore Parker, and possibly Henry David
Thoreau
• The Stone Building hosted abolitionists.The Stone building came to offer a place for
abolitionist speakers a place to speak freely when they were excluded elsewhere.
Anti-slavery speakers included Samuel May, Parker Pillsbury, Lucy Stone, and others. The
Middlesex Anti-Slavery Society, auxiliary to the New England Anti-Slavery Society, met
here.
• The granddaughter of Eli Robbins, Ellen Stone, was a prominent woman in her own right.
She had a law degree and was the first female Lexington School Committee member.
Stone deeded the building to the Town of Lexington in 1892,to be overseen by the
Library Board of Trustees.
• Through much of the 19th century, including after the Civil War, portions of the Stone
Building were occupied by Robbins and Stone family members among others.
• Listed in 1976 on the National Register of Historic Places (Department of the Interior)
for its historical significance and architectural merit.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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Following the gift to the Town,the Stone Building served as a branch library until it was shut in
2007.
• The building was used as the East Lexington Branch Library through the 20th century with
various repairs and renovations. The most notable was in 1946 when walls of the first
and second floor rooms were removed to create an open plan for the library's interior. At
that time the ell,which was part of the original construction, was removed.
• Beyond serving as the East Lexington Branch Library for more than one hundred
years,the Stone Building (together with Cary Hall) allowed for continued access to
library services during the renovation of Cary Memorial Library from 2001-2004. A
pipe leak caused a flood in August 2007 and the East Lexington Branch Library was
closed indefinitely.
• In 2008,the Town commissioned HKT Architects to evaluate the building.
Subsequently, in 2009,the Town hired Menders,Torry and Spencer to prepare a
detailed historic structure report. The trustees of Cary Memorial Library held a series
of public forums and issued a call for proposals for new uses of the building. Six
proposals were submitted from the Investigators' Club, Waldorf School, Friends of
Arlington Great Meadows, Lexington4Libraries, Cary Memorial Library, and the
Lexington Heritage Center. In February 2009,the proposal for a Lexington Heritage
Center was selected. Participants in this proposal, including the Lexington Historical
Society, did not get a response and it has not been documented why this proposal
was not pursued.
• In 2009, Menders,Torry and Spencer provided a thorough analysis of the building
and its history including a structural analysis and cost estimates, as well as providing
detailed plans for rehabilitation of the Lyceum building. (refer to the Bibliography for
a link to the Historic Structures Report and Recommendations for Rehabilitation and
Reuse). Although the SBFRC has been unable to locate any records of the Cary
Trustees meetings mentioning the Stone Building between February 2009 and 2020,
it appears as if a lack of defined commitment and plan by both Cary Library and the
Town to fund the Stone Building's restoration resulted in this proposal not being
realized.
• A winterization project and an exterior stabilization project were completed in 2010
and 2011, respectively. A proposal for continued work on the building was
"indefinitely postponed" by a Town Meeting vote in 2017.
• In 2020,the Select Board made the Stone Building a priority by forming the Stone
Building Feasibility/Re-use Committee (SBFRC).
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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In 2020,the Select Board formed the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-use Committee to help
envision a suitable use of the Stone Building.
The Committee Charge was created to "Explore constructive reuse options for the Stone
Building, thereby informing future Town investment to implement the preservation
recommendations of the 2009 Historic Structure Report or such recommendations as may
subsequently be made."
The full SBFRC charge can be found in e2dii2�2.
The Committee began meeting semi-monthly beginning in November 2020. The SBFRC
consists of 9 voting members, and 3 liaisons, one each from the Appropriations Committee,
Library Trustees, and Select Board.
Membershio:
Jaclyn Anderson Jeff Howry, Chair
Cristina Burwell, Clerk Mark Manasas
Carolyn Goldstein Melinda Nasardinov
Anne Grady Paul Smyke
Lester Savage
Appropriations Committee Liaison - Meg Muckenhoupt
Select Board Liaison(s) -Jill Hai/Doug Lucente
Cary Library Trustees Liaison(s) - Rev. Claire Feingold Thoryn/Suzie Barrie/Koren Stembridge
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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' IIIV IIIV VIII I°°°°°°°11111°°°'llllllllllllll 111111 OIIIIIS ' . IIIII'II IIU
The Committee goal, as outlined in its Charge, is to preserve the Stone Building and explore
constructive reuse by researching feasibility of alternative uses for the building,thereby
supporting future Town investment to implement the preservation recommendations of the
2009 Historic Structures Report or such recommendations as may subsequently be made.
More specifically,the SBFRC has been asked to:
1. Investigate potential uses for the Stone Building
2. Determine feasibility and market demand for these uses (including gauging whether
a portion of the operating costs could be covered by lease revenue)
The objective of this work is to provide a report to the Select Board that leads to
implementation of improvements listed in the aforesaid Historic Structures Report by
putting forward a feasible building use that is consistent with the original deed restrictions.
This deed by Ellen Stone sets forth:
To Have and To Hold, the aforegranted premises with all the privileges and
appurtenances thereto belonging unto the said Inhabitants of the Town of Lexington to
their own use and behoof forever, but to be forever held and maintained under the
direction and management of the Trustees of the Cary Library, for the time being for
the following purposes, viz:
1. A branch depository for the circulation and exchange of books of the Cary
Library
2. A public reading room
3. A public art museum
4. A meeting place for classes (not schools) in special departments of literature,
art, and science
5. Public lectures authorized by the Trustees of Cary Library
6. A meeting place for the youth and children of East Lexington, for games and
social diversions under the supervision of the Trustees
7. Any other purposes that the Trustees find consistent with the Library's mission
NOTE: Cary Library's mission is "to ignite curiosity, engage minds, and
connect our community" (2022)
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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111111 °°"Illlh°°°' VIII' VIII O °""'I'V
The SBFRC investigated potential uses for the Stone Building and explored market demand
feasibility and market demand for these uses, including gauging whether a portion of the
operating costs could be covered by lease revenue. The committee used the following methods:
e11 IC:: U
The SBFRC set out to look at potential users for the building and their interest in how the
building might be used. Local media (fliers, sandwich boards, social media,Town email blasts,
newspapers, etc.) were used to reach residents and organizations and advertise SBFRC's
interest in gathering community information through:
• Three open public listening forums: April 29, 2021, August 19, 2021 and April 27, 2022
• Two forums devoted to exploring potential concepts: intercultural center (September 28,
2021) and history museum (October 20, 2021)
• Emails and online submissions (via SBFRC webpage)
• An outreach booth at the East Village Fair: October 2, 2021
• Conversations with community stakeholders and key players such as Cary Memorial
Library and the Lexington Historical Society regarding their interest in the building.
• Proposals from users who created detailed documents on how the building might be
used for specific purposes
• Review of existing town reports, studies, and planning documents (links provided in the
Bibliography).
After identifying eleven core concepts based on information collected through the first public
forum and online submissions, in Summer 2021,the SBFRC used a Benefit vs. Fit/Vision matrix
to assess those concepts. This matrix was NOT used to provide a definitive assessment of the
"best" concept. Instead, it provided structure for organizing discussions about the merits of
each concept.
Benefits: Benefit to residents regardless of concept Fit to the building or Town Cultural
Values, e.g. low cost to maintain (self-sufficient)
Fit/Vision: How well does the concept fit the Town Cultural Values and/or Visions for the
Stone Building? e.g.,Vibrant and active, incorporates historical uses of building.
The committee conducted several sessions to develop Benefit and Fit/Vision Criteria. After
developing these criteria,the committee voted on the relative weight (fraction of 100%) which
was assigned to each criterion. See; pendiix 2 for more detail on the concept rating process.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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To understand how the building might operate in the future,the SBFRC reviewed several models
for adaptive use of historic buildings within Lexington and the New England area. This review
included:
• A list of more than 40 similar institutions in Massachusetts and New England. The
budgets, ownership, and funding models were reviewed to help identify possible
operating structures for the Stone Building.
• A detailed review of 6 local historic buildings' operating models (detailed in ,p,„I .2!j,ii, )
• A review of Lexington buildings' operating models (detailed in endiix 4)
The SBFRC surveyed historic properties located in the greater Boston area and eastern
Massachusetts. Specific properties were selected for further investigation based on their
similarity to the Stone Building. For the selected properties, information on the occupancy
arrangements were obtained,typically by interviewing the executive director or manager of the
property.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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VIII'°°°°VIII IIIII���� IIIII' VIII IIIII����
The findings from the research described above include information from the community about
market demand, and from similar historic buildings to identify possible models that might guide
feasibility for the Stone Building reuse ideas.
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The public forums, community conversations, submitted proposals, gave the SBFRC the
opportunity to hear from the public what they would like to see the building used for as well as
how they saw themselves as users in this space.
didic I 111,1,11
To invite perspectives and ideas from the larger community,the SBFRC publicized and held
three public forums.
Based on community input and suggestions, in June 2021 the committee created a list of
eleven major concepts for reuse. These were the concepts that the committee then rated based
on "fit" and "benefit" and that were posted on the committee web page for several months. They
are, in no particular order:
1. History museum
2. Branch library
3. Multicultural/intercultural center
4. Center for racial, social, and environmental justice
5. 21 st century Lyceum
6. Performing and visual arts space
7. Office space for community groups
8. Youth programming and hang-out zone
9. Center for sustainability, agriculture, and food
10. Local business incubator.
11. Coffee shop/outdoor cafe
Specific feedback for each of these concepts appear in ,p,„l ,g!j.iix , Community Feedback and
� g.l dJA 6.,East Village Fair. Some of these uses may require permission of the Town to
change the building's zoning,which is government-civic zoning (e.g. a coffee shop). See the
Bibliography for a link to the current zoning regulations.
i� )iii cVIII °Ilk IlliZainu ldii
The 11 reuse concepts identified by the SBFRC in Summer of 2021 were rated by committee
members using a Benefit vs. Fit/Vision matrix. Five concepts that rose to the top of ratings. Of
the eleven reuse concepts from the community,the ones with the best fit/vision and benefit are,
in no particular order::
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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1. Intercultural center
2. Racial/social/environmental justice center
3. History museum
4. 21 st century Lyceum
5. Branch library
The tables in A22gajiix 2 show the specific criteria and results of these ranking exercises.
cll)IIIA°III 1117°11 t 1111III"° '„ III III' !"I'III'„ III aind ''u' ,i billlic rveys
The five concepts listed above were analyzed in more detail through conversations and related
community reports. Major themes and aspirations that resonate with community leaders and
Lexington residents emerged, and are listed below (in no particular order). The sources for
these themes are listed in ,�p,lpg.l d.ii, ,,,,, ,, Community Conversations, and ..........1p,�p,gj dix.. , Community
Reports.
Themes:
• Preserve and use this historic building
o Lexington is a visionary and sustainable community that values and respects all
people, history, and community assets . . . by maintaining and improving our
physical assets. (Select Board Draft Strategic Outcome Areas)
o Many community members expressed a strong desire to see the building's
historic character be restored and put into active use
• Establish more indoor meeting space for informal and formal gatherings
o Lack of indoor recreation and programming space (Community Needs
Assessment, LexNext Comprehensive Plan draft)
o Cary Memorial Library meeting rooms are used for library programming most of
the time and cannot be regularly reserved by outside groups. (Library Director)
o Many community members express a desire to come together informally to
connect with one another in a warm,welcoming, comfortable atmosphere as well
as to meet, plan, and organize around shared political and philanthropic causes
(Coffee and Conversation Proposal #4 and community comments)
• Support the opportunity to make progress with Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
o Representatives of Human Rights Committee, LexPride,ABCL, CAAL, LexSeeHer,
and Lexington Community Coalition see the Stone Building as an opportunity to
"break down silos" and connect and collaborate with one another around issues
of equity and inclusion. (Intercultural Center public forum)
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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o LPS DEI curriculum will soon be implemented; school administrators and staff
see the Stone Building as a potential focal point and resource (Julie Hackett, LIDS
Superintendent/Kerry Dunne, LHS History Dept. Head)
• Engage with history beyond the American Revolution
o Many residents, educators, historians, expressed a strong desire to preserve and
present Lexington history other than just that surrounding the Battle of Lexington
in April 1775. (History Museum forum)
o K-12 educators see great potential (public and private schools)
o Interest in partnering as part of a coalition on this work(Lexington Historical
Society, Cary Memorial Library, Stone Building Advocates)
o Could attract regional visitors (bike path/Mass Ave) as well as national and
international visitors (Tourism Committee)
• Provide space for needed programming
o Cultural performances, historical programs, performing arts, senior programs,
and enrichment programs are all high priorities (Community Needs Assessment)
o Community forum participants expressed a desire for space for cultural and
performing arts programs as well as historic programming, senior programs, and
enrichment.
Additionally,the SBFRC met with the Cary Library Board of Trustees for the second time on May
18, 2022. At this time the Trustees provided informal feedback that they had no objections to
the presented uses (the presentation was similar to the April 27th public forum presentation).
cl)1117'11 1117'11 t 1 ui iiri Ilf°ui IIIA r a III
The SBFRC requested proposals for use of the Stone Building. Four proposals were submitted to
the committee (summaries and full reports can be found in pll,g,i , .ii, ,,,,1,,,, ).
1. The Robbins Hall Museum of Slavery and Abolitionism and the Burdoo Center for Racial
Justice. Authored by Kathleen Dalton and E. Anthony Rotundo
2. Black Cultural Center, East Lexington History and Abolitionists of Lexington Authored by
Sean Osborne and Craig Sandler with support from Eldene Chugani, Stephanie Hsu and
Anne Lee
3. The Telephone Museum: a 501(c)(3) Teaching Museum. Authored by Vincent Valentine
4. Coffee. Community. Conversation A Vision for modern reuse of the Stone Building in East
Lexington. Authored by Bob Morse
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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While these proposals contributed to the conversation and development of the vision for the
building, none of them were complete enough to become working models. Elements of the
proposals could certainly be incorporated into future programming.
The SBFRC researched how other historic buildings around Massachusetts and neighboring
states are owned and operated to identify possible models for the Stone Building. We identified
more than 40 buildings in all (details in endiix 11, Case Studies.)
We reviewed a range of different types of ownership and administrative structures:
• Public ownership, nonprofit administration
• Public ownership and administration
• Nonprofit ownership and administration
• Private ownership
Looking at some of the themes in the Case Studies,the SBFRC was able to identify that:
• Nonprofits commonly lease publicly-owned historic buildings for costs far below market
rates, often less than $1,000 per month. Some organizations have long-term leases of up
to 30 to 100 years (i.e. Brookline Arts Center, Spire, Lexington Historical Society).
• Several publicly-owned historic buildings in Massachusetts were restored with CPA
funds and/or grants requested and managed by local nonprofits.
• All of the buildings that are supported entirely by nonprofits are part of organizations
established before 1985, sometimes before 1900. Organizations without long-term
investment income/endowments do not appear to have the resources to restore and
maintain historic buildings in Massachusetts and are generally run by combination
public/private partnerships.
• Historic buildings that are publicly owned and managed typically include large event
rental facilities (i.e., banquet halls and gardens).
• The physical size of the historic property determines how much revenue it can generate
to support its operations. Sites with more than 7,000 SF generate considerable income
because they can accommodate parties of 100-150 people or more. The Stone Building,
with less than 3,200 SF space, cannot accommodate large events of more than 100
people. Its Lyceum can have an occupancy of 60 people.
• The Lyceum hall is 900 square feet,with an occupancy of 60 seats. When the Stone
Building is restored,the hall could be a venue for public lectures, provide a small
performance space, gallery, or a meeting space for large committees. Relevant to tourist
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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interest, a charter bus holds 65 people,which holds potential for the building to serve as
an interpretive center for historic themes not presented elsewhere in Lexington.
• The ground floor originally had four rooms with a hallway between, and a stairway to the
upper floor. Two rooms on the south side are able to combine into a single, large room
of 560 SF. The two rooms on the ground floor's north side provide 220 SF and 240 SF,
with a small hallway in between of 95 SF. This floor provides possible space for tenant
rental and community gathering space, as well as exhibit space in the public area. The
top floor also has two smaller rooms (240 SF, and 250 SF) that could provide rental
space as well.
• The majority of historic properties open to the public are managed by non-profit
organizations which have as their mission to direct programming and to oversee the
operations at a particular building and grounds (of our case studies, 13 public owned/
nonprofit run: 6 public owned/run: 10 nonprofit owned/run, 2 privately owned).
Additional findings and conclusions related to case studies can be found in.A ,P.2.!r�, i............,,,1.. ,
Financial Models.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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From the committee's findings and process,taking into consideration the structure and history
of the building,the needs and stated goals of the community, and the deed restrictions,the
following vision emerged.
VIII SIIkVII I
Come to the Stone Building to learn from the past and shape the future.
We envision the renovated Stone Building as an inclusive learning space-a modern Lyceum and
history center that draws on the building's historic roots while serving modern users. The Stone
Building can again be a place where groups and individuals connect to learn about social issues
and are inspired to create change.
a�I IIII j e!s
We believe:
• Lexington's history should be understood and shared in all its complexities
and contradictions.
• Lexington is best when all community members feel seen, heard, and valued.
• The Stone Building should encourage and provide opportunities for
diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) work.
• A successful Stone Building must connect past, present, and future-
building on its storied history and Lexington's world-known brand.
• Through bold actions,the Stone Building will have an outsized impact for
the citizens of Lexington and society at-large for generations to come.
• A modern Lyceum should not be static: its governance and programming
should be agile and respond to residents' evolving needs. This will be a
place for honest dialogue whether aimed at school children gathered
in-person, or an event streamed worldwide.
• It will only succeed if collaboration is its core principle. Programming will
focus on identifying the many entities in Lexington and beyond which could
co-create a constantly evolving program offering.
• These ambitious goals serve the needs of citizens and society alike and
allow for a broader outreach in fundraising.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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The proposed vision will be enabled through three major operational components, which are
described below:
1. "21st Century" Lyceum programming
a. Give people an opportunity to participate in conversation and debate, hear
speakers, attend performances,while prioritizing social justice, intercultural
relations, and education.
2. Historical exhibits (primarily two-dimensional) and related programs
a. Interpret the building's 19th-century origins as well as its social and political
context (Lyceum, immigration, social reform movements, slavery, abolition, and
women's rights) and the relationship of these histories to present-day issues
b. Include other possible forms of interpretation such as an online tour,
neighborhood walking tour, children's resources
c. Use historical interpretation to inspire curiosity and a deep understanding of
complex issues
3. Meeting space,to include a comfortable,welcoming, casual, public drop-in gathering
space/lounge (for all)to come together with friends and neighbors of all ages
The SBFRC looks toward the future with certain operational expectations,which are listed
below:
• This building of national historic significance should be preserved and rehabilitated for
21 st century use, including the ability to broadcast events from the Lyceum (wife, internet,
hybrid meetings, etc.).
• The Stone Building will be in active use on a regular basis (daily, hourly).
• Rehabilitation will include accessibility features that meet or exceed requirements and
will be made consistent with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment
of Historic Structures. An updated HSR will point the way to what is both cost-effective
and welcoming/accessible to all potential users.
• The rehabilitated building will be "held primarily for Lexingtonians' usage and behoof"
per Ellen Stone's deed.
• The Town will pay a portion of facility expenses as it does with the Community Center
and Library.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
16
• The Town will evaluate whether to lease space in the Stone Building to one or more
tenants (an entity that will provide oversight and programming of the entire building
and/or tenants to occupy individual spaces) to offset operating costs and help to provide
building oversight.
• Either some portion of the first floor or the second floor Lyceum space could be used for
event rentals.
• An entity or entities (public and/or private) will be responsible for opening and closing
the building on a daily basis.
• An entity or entities (public and/or private) will ultimately be in charge of overseeing
programming &building needs.
• Access to restrooms could serve visitors (bike path users, etc.) in the same manner as
Lexington Visitors' Center, and offer a gateway for visitors to East Lexington.
• A small kitchen would support programs and event rentals, as well as storage space for
programming.
• On-street parking is available in the area. Other parking arrangements should be
considered, such as partner arrangements with Sacred Heart Church, Follen Church, and
local business owners.
ItidIII IIID at e 4 Njdelllces
• Adults and families living in Lexington
• Retired residents
• K-12 students from public and private schools in Lexington and beyond
• Regional visitors to Lexington coming from the bike path, public bus transportation
on Massachusetts Avenue, private bus, or car
• Tourist groups visiting Lexington, Concord, and Boston
• National and international followers of"Live from the Lyceum" broadcast events
• Intergenerational opportunity
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
17
'0III� 'IIIII 1&IGIII�Is
The following conclusions were presented on April 27, 2022 in a public forum. At that forum,the
committee received positive feedback on the findings and recommendations in this report.
Several residents approached committee members after the event to say, "This is what I was
hoping would happen"
This historic treasure has now been sitting vacant for more than 15 years, and is fast
deteriorating. The Lexington community and the building itself cannot afford another period of
neglect.
We hope the investments that this committee is calling for, both in human resources and the
physical renovation, can be recognized as ones that will pay large dividends to the residents of
Lexington by deepening community connection and engagement.
1. The Stone Building is a national treasure and urgently needs to be restored
The Stone Building is a national treasure, and needs to be rehabilitated and restored to
public use. This work includes updating the Historic Structures Report, applying for CPA
funds, and pursuing National Historic Landmark status for the Stone Building.
2. A 21 st-Century Lyceum should be the overarching theme for the building's rejuvenation
This feature seems to be a keystone in the future of the building's reuse. In public
forums, Lexington's community strongly supported quality programming, debate, and
discussion of the issues of our day, a place to hold "difficult conversations" and
encounter people with divergent views and experiences to reinforce our civic culture.
3. The Town of Lexington/Cary Library Trustees needs to appoint or hire a coordinator to
begin implementing the recommendations in this report
There have been prior attempts to reactivate the Stone Building. These past efforts
collapsed because they did not have the leadership to follow through with
recommendations. While volunteer efforts will be essential in the path ahead,the focus
and consistency of a paid professional acting as a program incubator will be critical to
moving the recommendations in this report forward.
4. Programming should begin in the coming fiscal year, beginning July 1st
To spur planning for the building's restoration,the Town and other interested
organizations should start programs to interpret the building immediately. These efforts
could include walking tours, school curricula, and virtual lectures and discussions related
to Stone Building history on topics such as abolition, women's history, reform
movements, and racial justice. These efforts will engage community members and build
audiences for when the building is restored.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
18
5. Potential management and financial models need further exploration
In an ideal scenario, a nonprofit perfectly suited to enacting the vision set forth in this
report would provide oversight to restoration and rehabilitation of the building and would
begin programming and fundraising. A nonprofit staff person could fundraise directly for
the building's programming, etc. Such an entity with a business plan and a broad vision
aligned to what is described here did not present itself to the committee during its term.
A paid coordinator leading an advisory group should explore this further, as a transition
to nonprofit management is recommended in Phase 2 (see below). ,jp,,,, ,u , „p, ,,,,,..3,
Financial Models, describes some possible tenant and programming income scenarios.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
19
IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIu':IT S'"""I"""IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
The SBFRC recognizes that there are periods of growth in reactivating the building and its
inherent programming, and these are described in the phases below.
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Town support will be necessary to return the Stone Building to public use. The revenue gained
from educational programs, lectures,tours, exhibits and rentals will not be sufficient in the first
few years to keep the building open and in use.
Having this building open for the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington in 2025 represents
an opportunity to showcase a new and improved Stone Building and the impact it's having in the
community and beyond.
1. Appoint a coordinator. A coordinator needs to be appointed/hired by the Town to
oversee the 2009 HSR update, write grant applications (including an application for CPA
funding), develop community programming and community partnerships, explore
potential tenants and possible revenue sources, and lead working groups to advance the
building's restoration and programming. Different models for financing this position can
be discussed at a time when the management structure for the Stone Building (from a
Town perspective) is better understood.
2. Update plans and cost estimates for the building's rehabilitation starting from the 2009
Historic Structures Report (HSR), and apply for and secure CPA funding. The 2009
report is believed to be outdated in both costs and building code updates. The
coordinator would oversee this process. See ,�p,,,,p ,u , ,„p, ,,,,,1 , Updating Bid Documents.
3. Begin restoration. A timeline needs to be developed that outlines building restoration
and associated activities ASAP. The Town needs to engage an architect to prepare a bid
package to allow the project to move forward and go out to bid. This effort would be led
by the coordinator and the Lexington Public Facilities department.
4. Start fundraising and grant applications to support programming and renovation work
such as grant applications to state and federal humanities agencies, private foundations,
and other community fundraising efforts. The coordinator would be responsible for this
work. Fundraising might be in cooperation with an existing nonprofit foundation like the
Cary Library Foundation or Foundation for Metrowest.
5. Develop programming partnerships immediately. Exterior programming and publicity
should be explored,with efforts potentially beginning this summer. The coordinator
would do this work in association with some of the interested civic organizations, such
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
20
as the Stone Building Advocates, a group of local citizens that has been active in the
re-use planning process.
6. Explore long-term partnership between town and another entity that may be
implemented in phase 2. See A,pll,g! j.ii, ,,,,13 for examples.
7. Apply for National Historic Landmark Status. This status would position the Stone
Building to be eligible for specific funding such as "Save America's Treasures" It is
believed that there is interest for this to be pursued through volunteer efforts.
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During this phase, public-private partnerships will be implemented. Program development and
fundraising efforts will continue.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
21
VIII'�'�IIIII'�'�IIIIIIIIIIIIII IIIII�� IIIII' IIIII � 'IIIIIIIIIIIIII�'�
1. A Brief History of the Stone Building (Infographic) 24
2. Ad Hoc Stone Building Feasibility& Re-use Committee Charge 25
3. Historic Property Leases & Management-Six Case Studies 27
4. Lexington Historic Building Ownership Models 30
5. Community Feedback-forums, emails, etc. 31
6. East Village Fair (October 2021) 34
7. Concept Rankings 36
8. Community Conversations 40
9. Community Reports 43
10. Received Proposals 46
11. Case Studies 57
12. 2020 Community Needs Assessment (Summary) 63
13. Review of Financial Models 73
14. Updating Bid Documents 74
15. Floor Area Breakdown 76
16. Letters of Support 77
17. Cary Library Board of Trustees- Memo 5/18 90
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
22
APPENDIX 1
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Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
23
APPENDIX 2
Iep,. U r•,o.Acl oc Ston h1c g �I,� w " 1.
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Members: Nine Voting Members. Membership should include residents or individuals working in
Lexington who have background in or experience in one or more of the following areas:
• East Lexington community;
• Community Arts and Culture;
• Lexington business community;
• Creative or adaptive reuse project development or management
• Historic preservation;
• Tourism,economic development or placemaking
• Architecture
• Curatorial or other museum experience;
• Community Preservation Committee
Appointed By:The Select Board,the Board will designate the Committee Chair.
Ex Officio/Liaisons:While not part of the Committee,the Select Board;Capital Expenditures
Committee;Appropriation Committee and Cary Memorial Library Trustees are invited to
recommend a non-voting liaison.
Length Of Term: Upon completion and presentation of deliverables to the Select Board in
accordance with the established deliverables schedule as outlined below.
Staff Support:Assistant Town Manager for Development.
Meeting Times:As determined by the Committee.
A minimum of three meetings to solicit public comment, preceded by surveys,forums, social
media or other forms of public input.
Committee Goal:To preserve the Stone Building and explore constructive reuse by researching
the feasibility of alternative uses for the building,thereby supporting future Town investment to
implement the preservation recommendations of the 2009 Historic Structures Report or such
recommendations as may subsequently be made.
The Stone Building is believed to be one of the earliest surviving lyceums in America. It was built
in 1833,and speakers included Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Charles Sumner, and
Josiah Quincy,Jr.The lyceum hall is on the second floor.The 2009 Menders Torrey Spencer
report recommends that the second floor be used as it was historically, as an assembly room for
public lectures and community meetings.The first floor was the living quarters.
This committee will investigate and prepare a feasibility study on possible re-uses of the historic
Stone Building in order to:
1) implement the recommended improvements in the 2009 Menders, Spencer,Torrey
preservation plan ("the Plan"), and
Committee Role: This committee will investigate and prepare a feasibility study on possible
re-uses of the historic Stone Building in order to:
1) implement the recommended improvements in the 2009 Menders, Spencer,Torrey
preservation plan ("the Plan"), and
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
24
2) be consistent with both the deeded use restrictions("the Deed"),and the THE Secretary of the
Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties ("the Standards"), and
3)to determine the feasibility and market demand for uses of the Stone Building consistent with
the Deed and the Standards.
Recognizing that operating the Stone Building for public use will have associated costs,and the
type and degree of users' rental or lease interest must be gauged to also project whether a
portion of the operating costs could be covered by lease revenue from the future user and
uses.This feasibility study will therefore inform what use(s)justify budgeting further preservation
and ADA accessibility investments the building.
Deliverables: Report addressed to Select Board on the feasibility of the proposed use no later
than September 2021.
Prior to serving as a member of this committee, members are required to:
1.Acknowledge receipt of the Summary of the Conflict of Interest Statute. Further,to continue to
serve on the Committee the member must acknowledge annually receipt of the Summary of the
Conflict Interest Statute. Said summary will be provided by and acknowledged to the Town Clerk.
2. Provide evidence to the Town Clerk that the appointee has completed the on-line training
requirement required by the Conflict of Interest statute. Further,to continue to serve on the
Committee,the member must acknowledge every two years completion of the on-line training
requirement.
Reference:
2009 Historic Structures Report, Menders,Torrey Spencer,Stone Building
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The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties
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Seven purposes defined in Stone Building deed:
1. A branch library
2.A public reading room
3.A public art museum
4.A meeting place for classes
5. Public lectures authorized by the Trustees of the Cary Library
6.A room for children and youth of Lexington under the supervision of theTrustees
7.Any other purposes that the Trustees find consistent with the Library's mission.
Charge adopted by the Selectmen on May 21,2018
Charge amended by the Select Board on August 24,2020 updating Select Board name, new
deliverables date and areas for member background/experience
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
25
APPENDIX 3
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The financial arrangements and leases of various historical organizations were investigated as
summarized in the text below and the accompanying table. In most cases the data was
obtained by interviewing the executive directors or managers of the individual non-profit
organizations that occupy the historic properties.
1 -Jonathan Bright School, 260 Grove St.Waltham, MA
The Waltham Historical Society (WHS) has leased 7,880 SF on the third floor of a former public
elementary school for 10 years and is renewing its lease for an additional 10 years. The space
includes a lecture space with seating for 60+ persons (similar to the Lyceum), storage space for
archived materials, a work space for researchers and an exhibit area. The WHS pays $500 per
year rent plus $1,400 a year toward electricity; in addition,the historical society volunteers 50
hours toward digitizing the city's records. As the space is on the third floor of a heated building,
the leased space uses the excess heat which rises to the top floor. The city assumes all costs
for maintenance and other costs for operating the building.
2 - Commander's Mansion,440 Talcott Avenue,Watertown, MA
The historic Commander's Mansion constructed in 1865 was acquired by the City of Watertown
in 1998 for$1.00 from the U.S. Army. The property includes the two-story historic home and
surrounding scenic grounds, as well as ample surface parking. When the city acquired the
property it established a revolving fund so that revenue generated by the renting of the property
would go toward maintenance and operating costs. In addition,there are three town employees
at the property. The principal source of revenue for the property is as a wedding venue or as
host to corporate events. The base cost for a single wedding during peak season is $10,000, or
$6,500 off-peak. A tent,food and setup are extra. The Facilities Manager stated that covering all
the building's costs for the building was very difficult with only offering.
3 - Jackson Homestead (537 Washington Street) and the Durank-Kenrick House (286 Waverly
Avenue), Newton, MA
The Jackson Homestead was constructed in 1809 and serves as an historic home and museum
which is owned by the City of Newton. The Durant-Kenrick house is a 1734 farmhouse to which
an interpretive center was added by Historic Newton who owns the property. The two historic
properties are jointly managed and operated by a board of overseers representing the City and
Historic Newton. Each entity contributes 45%-50%to the overall annual budget for operating the
two properties. Admission to the two properties is $10.
4 - Buckman Tavern, 1875 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA 02120
The Buckman Tavern is both an historic home and an interpretive center for the history of
Lexington and the adjacent historic Common (Lexington Green). The Town of Lexington owns
the property but it is reportedly leased for$10/year to the Lexington Historical Society who is
responsible for all operating costs and maintenance of the building. Ten years ago the Lexington
Historical Society undertook a major renovation of the property by raising private donations,
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
26
obtaining grants and obtaining CPA funds in excess of$1,000,000. Admission to Buckman
Tavern is $12 or$25 for a three-house tour that includes the Hancock-Clarke House and Munroe
Tavern. The operation of the three properties is entirely the responsibility of the Lexington
Historical Society which benefits from a Visitor Center located behind the Buckman Tavern and
whose pre-pandemic visitor totals were up to 110,000 persons annually.
5 - Loring Parsonage, 288 Old Sudbury Road, Sudbury, MA
The 1730 Parsonage was acquired by the Town in 1930 as part of 12 acres which became the
new municipal center for Sudbury. In 2014 the Sudbury Historical Society (a non-profit) started a
fundraising campaign which totaled more than $2,000,000 and resulted in a complete
restoration of the building and an addition for an interpretive center in 2019. Both CPA and
private funds were used for the renovation. The Society occupied the building in 2020 and
opened to the public in 2021. The Town retains ownership of the building and only requires the
Sudbury Historical Society to pay for insurance. There is a single, permanent staff member, a
Director.
6 - Town Center at Bedford. 12 Mudge Way and 16 South Road, Bedford, MA
The two buildings,the Union Grammar School and the Old Town Hall, comprise the Town Center
and are owned by a non-profit which has a contract with the Town to provide space for several
Town offices (Senior Services,Youth & Family Services, Chamber of Commerce and non-profits).
The Town provides all maintenance of both properties. The Town Center with a total of 35,300
SF also has venues for classrooms, sometimes provides space for Town employee classes, and
can also provide rental space for community groups or functions.
Discussion and Conclusions
The various types of historic buildings in nearby towns illustrate the diversity of management
and operations that exist between Town and non-profit organizations. In general,for buildings
that provide public benefit through historic site interpretation, municipalities typically assume
much of the cost of their operations. If there is revenue from visitors, some portion of these
funds typically goes towards the operating expenses or maintenance. It should be noted that
the Buckman Tavern example is an exception. As a National Historic Landmark adjacent to an
historic battle ground which is also a National Historic Landmark,the properties enjoy more
than 100,000 visitors a year. This results in a substantial revenue for the Lexington Historical
Society to support the programs in their three properties which is supplemented by a
multi-million dollar endowment.
One salient fact that emerges from the analysis of the leases presented in the foregoing table
and a review of many other historic sites such as those summarized in the case studies,the
physical size of the historic property is a key determinant in how much revenue it can generate
to support its operations. Properties with substantial square footage like the Jackson
Homestead/Durrant House sites or special venue properties like the Commander's Mansion can
generate significant revenue. Smaller properties with only modest floor areas are more limited
in the revenue they can generate.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
27
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Report ofthe Stone BuitdingFeas/bititylRe-UseCommittee J0JJ May 19, J0JJ
28
APPENDIX 4
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This chart overviews several ownership models of historic buildings in Lexington. The column
on the far right presents a non-profit and Town partnership,with the non-profit taking all
operational responsibility, but with the Town providing selected services. It presents one
possible model for the Stone Building The later section of this report contains more detailed
analysis of many other historic properties and presents conclusions as they apply to the Stone
Building.
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Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
29
APPENDIX 5
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Based on community input and suggestions from committee members, in June 2021 the
committee created a list of eleven major concepts for reuse. These were the concepts that the
committee then rated based on "fit" and "benefit" and that were posted on the committee web
page for several months. They are, in no particular order:
1. 21 st Century Lyceum: Renew the original spirit and purpose of the building to discuss
and debate the great ideas of our time. Meaningful discourse to overcome fractured
political and social divides in the United States. Use of digital technology to amplify this
type of engagement across the country and globe.
2. History Museum: Exhibits and programs devoted to interpreting the history of the Stone
Building and its multiple contexts, including history of African Americans in Lexington,
slavery, abolition, race relations,Transcendentalism, social reform, wormen's suffrage,
and/or East Lexington.
3. Branch Library: Reading room with comfortable seating in a warm and relaxed setting;
checkout/return books; children's area; access to computers and technology; public
programs; maker space; and/or"library of things" Possible focus on a theme or themes;
some meeting space available to community groups.
4. Multicultural/Intercultural Center: Place where different ethnic and cultural groups could
come together for cross-cultural exchange,foster mutual understanding and
appreciation, and share traditions and perspectives through visual and performing arts
and culture, demonstrations, lectures, etc.
5. Center for Racial,Social, and Environmental Justice: Place for focusing dialogue about
issues of justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion in Lexington and beyond. Exhibits,
programs, conversations that connect the building's history as an abolitionist meeting
place with issues such as prison reform, climate change, gun control, and white
privilege. Fostering "racial reckoning" in our town. A place where our community models
the principles of community engagement and inclusion across culture, race, disability.
6. Performing and Visual Arts Space: A space for small groups of adults and children to
rehearse and perform music and poetry as well as an art gallery to display visual artistic
works by community members. Also hands-on workshops, art activities, children's
theater, puppet shows, etc. Could include maker space.
7. Office Space for Community Groups: A common space where community groups can
have a small office/meeting space.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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8. Youth Programming and Hang-Out Zone: A place where community members,
especially kids and teens, can hang out, play games, or participate in a variety of
workshops and educational experiences.
9. Center for Sustainability,Agriculture, and Food: A place to learn about local farming and
community conservation through seed library, "library of things," books on sustainability,
demonstration kitchen, and educational and public programs.
10. Local business incubator: Space for local entrepreneurs to test out business ideas, with
possible focus on supporting Black entrepreneurs,food and farming businesses, and/or
new retail initiatives.
11.Coffee Shop/Outdoor Cafe: Place for community members to connect and gather
informally over a cup of coffee, baked goods, sandwiches; indoor and/or outdoor terrace;
pop-up restaurants; food prepared and served by community members with disabilities.
The second forum on August 19,2021 reviewed these eleven concepts and shared the results
of the committee's Benefit/Fit Matrix exercise. In addition, it allowed for public comment.
The third forum on September 28, 2021 invited local organizations and cultural groups to
explore the possibilities of a multi-cultural or intercultural center more deeply, and saw
approximately 35 in attendance. This idea received support from representatives of Human
Rights Committee, LexPride, Association of Black Citizens of Lexington (ABCL), Chinese
American Association of Lexington (CAAL), LexSeeHer, and the Lexington Community Coalition
who expressed interest in programming in this space and who see in the Stone Building an
opportunity to "breakdown silos" and connect and collaborate with one another.
The fourth forum on October 20, 2021 invited history stakeholders and representatives of
cultural heritage organizations in Lexington and the local area to explore the possibilities of a
history museum more deeply.
• 25-30 people in attendance
• Very strong support from the Lexington Tourism Committee and representatives of
Kathleen Dalton's Museum/Stone Building Advocates group, which submitted a proposal
for a history museum and a center for racial justice
• Additional support from LexSeeHer, Lexington High School, ABCL, National Park Service,
and other community members
• Excitement about interpreting the history of the social and political history of the building
through exhibits and programs that would allow Lexington to "get beyond"the American
Revolution and promote understanding of connections between past and present
• Possibilities of a "hybrid model" for this space; displays could be compatible with some
of the other concepts
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
31
The fifth and final forum was held on April 27,2022 and began with a slideshow of the SBFRC
charge, and the building's history. It continued with findings that the committee identified
through previous forums, community conversations, and existing community survey reports.
Committee conclusions and recommendations were also reviewed.
• Approximately 45 community members were in attendance.
• Public comment speakers were from local groups (LexSeeHer, METCO) and proposal
writers (The Robbins Hall Museum of Slavery and Abolitionism and the Burdoo Center for
Racial Justice, listed below), as well as the neighboring Waldorf school. Much support,
both in the process for ongoing feedback and community participation, as well as the
possibilities for DEI and social justice initiatives, and a new part of Lexington history to
be presented (19th cent.).
• Interest expressed in maintaining a reading room (free book swap, magazine exchange)
akin to the old branch library
• A question was raised as to the problem of parking, which was described as still in
consideration (though the building is conveniently placed on a public transportation path
as well as adjacent to the bike path).
• The role of the coordinator was commented on as critical to progress.
• Including a small kitchen would enable collaborations with local vendors to allow a
"small coffee shop feel" and support catered space rentals to generate income
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
32
APPENDIX 6
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East Village Fair
Feedback to request for input on Stone Building
October 2, 2021
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The East Village Fair has been going on for 183 years as I understand it. Follen Church notes that In 1839
the"Ladies of East Lexington" held a fair to raise funds"to aid in the erection of a Christian Church in East
Lexington"That first fair included a toy shop for children and entertainment by the Brigade Band.
This year followed the year when it was not held because of COVID-19,with rainy and cold fairs just prior.
So the pleasure in getting back into the community yesterday with sunshine and warmish weather was a
tonic for many.The feeling yesterday was very much a bon vivant one,with the sun shining and people
delighting in the festivity in the air.
I believe this contributed to the conversations and written comments that fairgoers had. If I were to
summarize, it was that people wanted a central place to meet, and a place that was active and not
passive.What they wanted in this place was a quiet,cozy, intimate setting.This is what many
remembered fondly of the library branch, and what others seemed to be seeking out. It is a natural
extension that in this atmosphere of community and celebration that people wanted a place where they
could come together—bring their children,find sustenance, and meet up with other members of the
community.
Our comments came not only from East Lexington residents, but also from people around Lexington as
well as visitors and amblers that lived in neighboring Arlington Heights.The following page lists what
people left behind on our notepad (I have put comments in bold that had repeated comments,and noted
+1 or V when others have seemingly added their agreement to already-noted ideas).
We received 45 written responses for how people thought the Stone Building should be used.This is in
addition to a comment and two memories, as well as numerous conversations not recorded here.The
table was staffed by Melinda Nasardinov, Meg, Muckenhoupt,and Cristina Burwell (er, and represented by
Chas. Follen as well).
s
Rep `' ibili -use lay 19, 2022
33
COMMUNITY IDEAS FOR STONE BUILDING 24. Meeting spaces (+1 yes)
25. Weddings
26. Kitchen
27. Free nonprofit kitchen (,/)
m.
v�Jrr 28. Lexington Zero Waste Collaborative
29. Multicultural center/educational (+1)
{
30. Youth hostel
31. Bookstore
32. Community gathering center(,/, yes,,/)
33. Lexington historical association
34. Lexington architectural history center
35. Art center where anyone can do artistic
projects
36. Visual art center
1. Tavern - keep the history alive! 37. Music library and lesson place (perhaps
2. Yes! performances in lyceum) (yes! ,/)
3. Tavern -gathering spot, $ covers costs 38. Renaissance music would be great!
4. Tavern 39. Minuteman tech collaboration (detail up to
5. Tavern them)
6. Tavern ("I second that") with locally made 40. Board game cafe
real ale 41. Video game arcade
7. Library 42. Part museum! Part lecture hall! Part
8. Library please performance space!
9. Yes! Agreed! 43. Second visitors center branch
10. Sure! 44. Anchor Center for history and programming
11. Library on perimeters (+1 yes) (eg. East Lex, center of government,
12. 1 loved the EV library. It was so cozy and women's roles, role of social justice causes)
quiet 45. Museum housing items that were in the
13. Turn back into library (fond memories of "Seeds of Liberty" exhibit, previously at the
fireplace and comfy chairs) Museum of our National Heritage,that
14. 1 would like a library-solicit donations since showcases the Lexington Minutemen.
it's a historic building
15. Library, reading room, cafe Memories:
16. Library and reading cafe Great library!
17. Children's reading room -could be unstaffed Hiding on the second floor with a book after
18. Coffee center (+1 yes) choir practise. Many good quiet moments!
19. Drop in for coffee, community (+1)
20. Nonprofit coffee house (+1) Comment- is it on the National Historic
21. Neighborhood gathering -travel by bike ... Register, and could we look for
friends, creaky stairs, read/read/read federal/state/corporate funds?
22. Community meeting space <3
23. Meeting space (+1)
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
34
APPENDIX 7
The Benefit vs. Fit/Vision matrix below was used to assess aforementioned eleven concepts for Stone Building
reuse.. The figure below shows the rating of the concepts. Concepts in the top right quadrant of the matrix are
the most highly rated.The methods used to develop this matrix, and definitions,are described in the following
sections.
Concept Rankings - Benefit vs. lFiWision
Inter Dikural
LKxwmj
1
in0
xr
Sust;1iruAmilily Or 0 Flerromn 'is Arta
LZ You Am-
Small II B "z iincu batow
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Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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Tablel:m ene t Criteria for Rating Stone Building Concepts
Benefit Benefit Criteria Weighting
ID N
1311 Likely to be monetarily sellf-supporting, whatever group takes it on 12.0
wound be likely to have an income stream
132 Fits a unique need within the community d doesn't duplicate what
could be offered elsewhere 11.8
-consistent with community needs assessment
133 Connects people across cultures, age, trace, gender ID, etc, 11.3
backgroiunds.
134 Gathering place for East Lexington neighborhood 10.3
135 Responds to community groups expressing interest in the(building
such that they could pursue:
- Partnership opportunities with existing groups e.g. MA cultural, Lex 10..0
Historicall, etc.
-Grants, expertise, staff internships, etc.
135 Usefull to a Marge portion of the Lex Community 9.7
137 Provides Marge benefit to marginallized or disadvantaged part of 9.3
community
138 Promotes East Lexington economic development 9.2
139 Provides resources to the community, e.g. Internet access, (library of 8.2
things, etc.
13110 Supports local community service organizations (meeting space) & 8.2
social causes, e.g. Neighborhood brigade, Lexington (landscapes
Totall 100%
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
36
Tolle 2'w FitlVision Criteria fior Bating,stone Building Concepts
Fit Flt/Vision Criteria Weighting
IlD N
F11 Promotes an active 1 alive feel for the building -welcoming to all 12..0
F2 Emphasizes historic significance of the Ibuilding 11.7
-Abollitionist speakers, Suffrage(?)etc.
F3 Illuminates cultural heritage of the building & East Lexington 11.2
- Irish railroad workers, Furriers, etc., hand conseirvation/pireservation
F4 Building has a "purpose or focus", e.g. Social Justice, Intercultural 10.4
Exchange
F5 Promotes educational awareness of a particular topic 10..1
F6 Promotes Social Justice"'change" 9.9
F7 Draw for diverse interests - promotes involvement&stewardship 9.7
F8 Preserves the historic features of the building - interior first floor wall 9.1
locations, etc.
F9 Can be made accessible beyond the confines of the building 8.3
- much of the future is digital
F110 Ties in w/the school systems / has (benefits for children 7.7
Total l 100%
SBFRC members were then asked to rate each of the eleven concepts on a scale of 1-5 as to how well they
aligned with each of the Benefit&Fit/Vision Criteria.These scores were averaged to develop the ratings shown in
Table 3 and Table 4 on the following pages.The Raw Rating for each criterion was multiplied by the percent
weighting of each Benefit or Fit/Vision Criteria to obtain the Weighted Ratings.These weighted ratings were then
used to plot the graph above.
Table 3:Benefit Criteria Ratings
Office
Branc Multi
Racial/ 21 st Performi spac Small Coffe
Benef History Social Centur ng& e for Yout e
h Cultur Sustainabil Biz
it Museu Environme y Visual com h Shop
Librar al ity Center incubat
ID m y Center nt Justice Lyceu Arts m zone /
Ctr m Center group °r Cafe
s
B1 2.9 2.6 2.8 3.3 2.8 3.5 2.5 2.5 2.4 334 0
B2 3.4 2.3 4.1 4.4 4.0 2.5 2.8 2.5 3 8viii3 8 2.0
B3 3.4 39 4.940 3.5 .3.8 2.1 3.1 2.6 20 40
B4 2.043 /40 3.4 3.437 23 39 2.6 1.5 5.0
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
37
B54.4 3.3 3 9 4.1 3.3 3.5 2.4 2.3 3.4 2.7 1.0
B6 3.1 3.44.4 3.5362.6 3.0 3.6 1.7 4.5
,',
RPM
B7 3.1 3.0 4,3 4.6 3.0 2.6 2.5 2.3 2.3 3.4 1.0
B8 3.0 2.4 3.4 3.0 3.0 3.6 2.4 2.6 2.8 3.8 3.5
B9 2.6 4.8 3.3 3.3 2.8 2.5 2.1 3.1 3.1 2.5 2.0
B10 1.8 2.9 4.1 4.1 2.8 2.4 4.5 2.4 3.1 1.8 2.5
Raw
Ratin 29.6 32.7 39.0 37.7 32.1 32.0 26.2 27.6 29.5 26.5 29.5
9
Weigh
ted 3.0 3.2 3.9 3.8 3.2 3.2 2.6 2.8 2.9 2.7 3.0
Ratin
9
*Darker colors correspond to higher rankings
Table 4: Fit/Vision Criteria Ratings *Darker colors correspond to higher rankings
Interc Office
Racial/Soc 21 st spac Coffe
Branc ulturall Performi Small
&
Fit
History h nter ial centur ng e for Yout Sustainabil Biz e
ID Librar Cultur Visual ity Center incubat
Museu Env y com h Shop
m y al Justice Lyceu Arts m Zone or /
Center Center m group Cafe
s
F1 3.3 4.84.4 4.1 3 64 0; 2.6 3.6 2.6 2.0 4.5
F2 5.0 2.6 3.4 �4 3 4 5 2.5 1.9 1.5 1.8 1.7 1.0
F3 4.9 2.9 3.5 3.4 3.6 2.6 1.8 1.5 1.8 1.5 1.0
F4 4.6 3.5 4.6 4.6 4.6 3.3 2.4 3.3 4.1 3.5 1.5
F5 4.6 2.54 2.6 2.4 1.4 1.5 4.4 1.5 1.5
F6 3.9 2.3 4.1 4.6 3.3 2.3 1.8 1.4
F7 3-4 0 4.6 3.8 3.4 X4.1 3.0 3.1 2.8 1.7 3.5
,,,,,,,, f,,,,,,,,
1
F8 4.3 ,3.9 3.7 3.7 4.4 3.7 3.9�������� 3.0 3.6 1.0
F9 4.3 3.1 4.0; 4.3 4.1 3.0 1.4 1.6 3.9 2.8 1.0
F10 3.9 3.6 3 7 3.6 3.0 3.1 1.4 4.1 2.7 1.6 1.0
Raw
Ratin 42.0 33.1 40.1 40.8 37.2 31.0 21.4 24.6 31.3 23.1 17.5
g
Weigh
ted 4.2 3.3 4.0 4.1 3.7 3.1 2.2 2.4 3.1 2.3 1.8
Ratin
9
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
38
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
39
APPENDIX 8
C I II'"'II".1 1.,I If"I IILI:
.I IP.' III I
Representatives from Lexington's town agencies and non-profit organizations participated in the SBFRC
open public listening forums. In addition, several met with the SBFRC for more detailed conversations
about their interest in a reactivated Stone Building and participating in potential partnerships. This
included the Cary Library, Lexington Public Schools,the Lexington Historical Society and Stone Building
neighbors-Waldorf School and Follen Church.
Cary Memorial Library
• On October 20, 2021,the Cary Library Board of Trustees voted not to pursue a municipally
funded branch library in the Stone Building. In making this decision,the board encouraged the
Ad Hoc Stone Building Feasibility/Re-use Committee to pursue other options as put forth in the
Stone Building deed.
• Koren Stembridge, Director, suggested the possibility of a 'volunteer-run' library with limited
programming.
• Stembridge also indicated she and her staff would be willing to partner on local history and
related programming presented in the Stone Building.
• The library's available meeting and study space is limited and in high demand. The library's two
meeting rooms are available to private groups only for programs with broad public appeal. Prior
to the pandemic, when the library did offer meeting spaces for public use,the staff turned lots of
people away, especially during peak times (4:00 - 9:00 p.m. and weekends.)
• Post-COVID-19,the library's priority is to use the space for its growing program offerings,with or
without partners. Meeting rooms cannot be booked by outside groups. "We have seen such an
uptick in our own programming that we have needed our space to be available for our own
programs-and we've increased the number of programs we do with partners," Stembridge
explained.
Follen Church (adjacent to the Stone Building)
• The Stone Building is part of the church's historic identity as a part of the East Village, an
intact civic center with church, store, and Lyceum building, all built in the early nineteenth
century. Church services for East Lexington residents led by Charles Follen and others
were held in the Lyceum Hall before the neighboring octagonal church was built.
• The legacy of and proposed focus on race and justice resonates with the church
community's present-day efforts.
Lexington Tourism Committee
At the Tourism Committee meeting on April 8, 2021,the committee unanimously voted to
recommend that the Stone Building be a "Active Place for use for unique programs which
includes space to showcase East Lexington History and is open regularly for residents and
visitors".
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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Lexington Historical Society
• Lexington Historical Society Executive Director, Carol Ward, expressed that the
organization would likely be interested in presenting programs in the Stone Building.
• Historical Society staff and the board are open to the possibility of collaborating with
others on interpretive exhibitions and programs.
• The Historical Society is beginning to incorporate the history of slavery in its tours of
colonial and revolutionary era buildings, and the Stone Building could be a place to
expand those stories into the 19th century.
Lexington Schools
Through informal conversations with Lexington Public Schools administrators and teachers, we
learned that many of them view the Stone Building as a significant historical resource that could
support a number of curricular goals at a variety of grade levels. These include:
• Place-based learning opportunities for social studies and history, specifically but not
limited to civics and 19th-century social reform movements in the United States
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion curriculum and related initiatives, including:
o Understanding Our Differences (UOD)- Disability awareness curriculum for all
LIDS 3rd-5th graders
o Dismantling Racism curriculum (Bowman Elementary School)- Currently being
refreshed and expanding to other Lexington elementary schools.
• Hands-on projects in support of Minuteman Tech's curriculum in carpentry and in
culinary arts could be developed in relation to the building restoration and a "pop-up"
food stand or coffee shop respectively.
Administrators at the Waldorf School, located next door to the Stone Building, expressed
interest in using it as a resource for teaching history, social studies, and inclusion. Also within
walking distance, Lexington Montessori School's upper elementary and middle school faculty
would look forward to similar engagement in support of curriculum goals.
If hands-on, place-based educational programs were to be developed,Arlington Public Schools
and Bedford Public Schools are located within close travel distance via public transportation,
and other school districts are located within easy driving distance.
Recreation and Community Programs/Community Center
• Melissa Battite, Recreation Director, and Christine Dean, Community Center Director, use
the Community Needs Assessment written in 2020 to guide their work on a daily basis.
Although COVID-19 has temporarily changed patterns of use at the Community Center,
making capacity less predictable,there is a shortage of indoor recreation space in
Lexington.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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• Having public access to restrooms at the Stone Building would be a huge
addition to the neighborhood, park, and bike path. Right now the town uses
portable toilets in that area.
• The calendar at a renovated Stone Building would fill up. Groups that might be
interested in meeting at the site include public speaking groups, book clubs,
OWLL groups (if small enough), discussion groups. Demand for parent-toddler
music, art, and dance is high.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Town of Lexington
• Martha Duffield, Chief Equity Officer, has streamlined communication with
representatives from community groups through the Strategic Equity Advisory Team.
• The building could be a neutral site for conversation and learning about social justice
and racial equity and could reinforce the town's commitment to these efforts.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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APPENDIX 9
:..
((�ir., it it ..�ii, iii 11 IC:1,
Lexington residents provided feedback through two town surveys (LexNext Comprehensive Plan and
the Recreation Department's Community Needs Assessment). This year the Select Board likewise has
drafted goals for Strategic Outcome Areas. The SBFRC reviewed these three documents and identified
the possible intersections with the Stone Building (described below).
LexNext Comprehensive Plan (draft
The Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee's draft plan (February 10, 2022) lays out nine
goals, of which at least five are relevant to the Stone Building's future. [Need to elaborate a bit
about connection to SB.].
1. DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION: To increase the diversity and equity, and promote to
[sic]the inclusion of people visiting, living and working in Lexington.
3. ECONOMIC VITALITY: To promote a vital economic system that is self-sustaining, supports
a variety of small and large businesses, contributes to the tax base that supports the town,
and improves the balance of services to meet the needs of residents, employees, and
visitors.
6. HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES: To protect, preserve, and promote awareness and
appreciation of Lexington's historic resources from throughout its history.
8. RECREATION AND COMMUNITY GATHERING: To improve and expand facilities for
recreation and community gathering to support holistic wellbeing, a sense of belonging,
enhanced social connections, and opportunities for fun.
9. PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES: To provide well maintained, updated, inclusive, and
sustainable public facilities to serve and meet community needs.
Select Board Strategic Outcome Areas (draft 2022)
The Town of Lexington continually outlines priorities to keep efforts moving toward shared goals. The
revitalization of the Stone Building could potentially support goals in each of the following five
categories:
Community Compass: Lexington is a visionary and sustainable community that values and
respects all people, history, and community assets, by:
• Celebrating and fostering our differences in belief, culture, and ability
• Creating effective, respectful two-way communication
• Continuing opportunities to create and share history
• Maintaining and improving our physical assets
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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Livable Lexington: Lexington provides opportunities for all people to participate in community
activities and benefit from Town services that are affordable, accessible, and responsive, by:
• Increasing opportunities for and utilization of safe multimodal transportation
• Actively seeking development of affordable and accessible housing
• Providing financial opportunities and support to enable lifelong residency
Quality Services: Lexington delivers quality municipal services, infrastructure, and amenities for
all by:
• Ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of our community
• Balancing the financial impact of existing services and infrastructure with planning for
future needs
• Valuing and respecting Town staff
• Effectively engaging Boards and Committees
• Maximizing sustainability and resilience while mitigating negative climate impact
Fiscal Stewardship: Lexington is committed to fiscal stewardship,which includes:
• Long-term capital and fiscal planning
• Responsible financing and debt management
• Providing staff and resources necessary to deliver quality services
• Ensuring strategic priorities are met
Thriving Local Economy: Lexington supports its thriving local economy by partnering with the
private sector to achieve:
• Access to a vibrant mix of businesses, services, attractions, and events for all people
• Quality jobs in diverse industries
• A balanced approach to tax policy for residents and businesses
Community Needs Assessment, Recreation Department(2020)
The Recreation Department commissioned a lengthy and thorough study of community needs,
pointing to a number of areas for growth and development that inform our understanding of
market demand (gip endiix 1 , for summary).
General findings
• Indoor space is lacking.
• Cultural diversity should be an integral part of the Department's programming.
• Inclusion and accessibility should be a priority.
Program Needs
• Cultural Performances were identified as one of the top four unmet needs in the
community.
• Historical Programs were also high on the list.
• Priorities for Program Investment rated these five areas among the top nine:
1. Cultural performances
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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2. Performing arts programs
3. Senior (60+) programs
4. Enrichment programs
5. Historical programs
Additional recommendations regarding operations:
• Coordination/communication can be enhanced between the Department, Facilities, DPW,
and community residents;there needs to be a "face"
• Parks and recreation is/can be a direct contributor to solving Town-wide problems.
• Reducing social isolation
• Positively affecting healthy living
• Restorative services and mental health contributions
• Emotional and social growth
• Building a resilient community
• Alternate funding sources may be required.
• All recreation providers need to work collectively to not duplicate services.
NOTE: The community surveys mentioned above can be found online using the links provided in the
Bibliography
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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APPENDIX 10
The SBFRC solicited for proposals through various forms of outreach pointing interested parties to the
committee web page. The web page read as follows:
The Committee is asking interested groups to complete a Reuse Proposal to help standardize the
information the committee reviews for use concepts.
Please note, this request for information should not be considered a formal request by the Town of
Lexington for any contractual purposes. To be considered as part of a review at the next Stone Building
Forum on August 19,please complete your submission as fully as possible by August 13. Reuse
proposals will be considered as part of a review after that date but, for inclusion in the final report, must
be received by September 17,prior to the Committee's third and final forum, currently planned for late
September 2021.
SUMMARY
1.) The proposals submitted by the Dalton/ Rotundo and Osborne/Sandler/ Chugani / Hsu Lee
groups focused on using the Stone Building as an abolition museum and center for racial
justice. In their proposals,the history of slavery and abolitionism in Lexington would be told with
a special focus on black residents of Lexington and abolitionsists connected to the Stone
Building. The museum and racial justice center anticipated funding to be through grants and
fundraising.
2.) The Telephone Museum, Inc., proposed by Vincent Valentine,would house an already existing
501(c)(3) public charity, chartered to inspire children and young adults to become engineers. As
a teaching museum, it would provide space for 40 students at a time for workshops and
lectures, enough square footage to exhibit thousands of historical artifacts, and a quiet reading
room for a reference library containing a collection of 150 rare books, pamphlets, and
periodicals. The museum was proposed to operate with grant funding, fund raising, and
volunteers.
3.) East Lexington resident Robert Morse proposed that the Stone Building could be used as a
modern English coffee house, building on the coffeehouses of the 17th and 18th centuries where
people of all walks of life "could meet for conversation and commerce"The layout of the
building would be designed to encourage shared communal activities. No funding specifics
were provided with this proposal.
The full four proposals can be found on the following pages (in no particular order).
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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#1 Stone Building Re-use Proposal
Proposal Name: The Robbins Hall Museum of Slavery and Abolitionism and the Burdoo Center for Racial
Justice
Proponent's Contact Information: Kathleen Dalton and E.Anthony Rotundo,kdalton4 I salem@gmail.com,
trotundo9�gmail.com, 978-604-1095
Summary of Project Concept:
Lexington has emerged as a multi-ethnic town willing to face its racial past and present.
To promote the Town's continuing journey toward social justice and equity,we believe this museum and center
will help citizens know and acknowledge our shared past,understand how this past connects to our present, and
draw inspiration from courageous Lexingtonians like the Burdoos and the Robbins as we seek to make the town a
"safe, equitable and just community for all."
To achieve this goal,we propose establishing the Robbins Hall Museum of Slavery and Abolitionism and the
Burdoo Center for Racial Justice,which will provide spaces and many exciting activities for a wide range of
Lexingtonians to gather, study, discuss, and learn together about the town's racial history and the citizens who
worked toward social justice and equity.We plan to offer many of the community benefits the Re-use Committee
outlined as desirable for the Stone Building.
The Museum takes its name from East Lexington's Robbins family. Eli Robbins, a well-respected abolitionist and
entrepreneur,built Robbins Hall for lectures and meetings as a place where free speech would be allowed. In the
1830s,talk of abolitionism was considered dangerous.As antebellum reform movements spread throughout the
North, abolitionists like Samuel May(author Louisa May Alcott's uncle)were brutally attacked by mobs in
Concord because of they attacked slavery, a profitable institution that brought wealth to southern planters and
Northern bankers, shipbuilders, and insurers. It took courage for Lexington's Black and white citizens, including
Eli Robbins's wife Hannah and daughters Julia and Ellen to stand up against slavery.
Upstairs visiting tourists and local people will hear speakers, see films, or view rotating exhibits about a variety of
topics in the large Lyceum Hall room of Robbins Hall Museum of Slavery and Abolitionism. Lexingtonians can
learn about Lexington history from Cary Library books and audio visual resources in the Julia Robbins Room and
groups such as Association of Black Citizens of Lexington, CAAL, LexSeeHer, and other groups can use the
meeting space available in the Ann Burdoo Room.
Downstairs the name of the large combined rooms of the Burdoo Center honors Ann and Phillip Burdoo, freed
slaves who were among the early settlers of Lexington and whose descendants fought in the French and Indian
Wars and the American Revolution. Here the continuing work of Sean Osborne and others to document the many
Black Lexingtonians can be presented via lectures and discussions.And continuing research could be pursued
with the Lexington Historical Society. This space can be immersive,interactive,with digital exhibits as well as
print sources. School groups and tourists could come to learn about slavery, freedom, Black lives after
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
47
Emancipation in Lexington, as well as Black leaders in the abolition movement,the Civil War, and in the long
Civil Right movement. Lexington's immigrant history, East Lexington's struggle with anti-Irish prejudice, and
the work that many groups have done to build a strong community can be explored in the Burdoo Center as well.
The Bernard W. Harleston and Angelina Grimke Teachers'Resource Room honors a Lexington resident who was
the first tenure-track African-American Tufts faculty member and later the first African-American president of the
City College of New York and a famous southern abolitionist who taught in Lexington during the Civil War and
who with her husband Theodore Weld fought slavery by writing and teaching. This room can provide teaching
resources for multi-cultural and universal design education, and it can provide a classroom setting if they want to
bring their students to the museum and center for a field trip. On-site resources could be supplemented by Cary
Library's oral history and Lexington historical resources.
One of Eli Robbins'concerns was the inequality that grew in his time, and today we still contend with the long
term effects of slavery with twelve generations later still more likely to be poor than their white peers. In the
Theodore Parker Office,named after Lexington's abolitionist minister smaller group discussions and volunteers
can work to support Black entrepreneurs in the Black Business incubator. The Museum and Center's Coordinator
would also work here, alongside computers available for public use. The Coordinator would encourage school
groups, coordinate with the Lexington Historical Society and the Cary Library, and encourage tourist visits to the
Museum and the Burdoo Center.
Once again local audiences could listen to the stories of the struggles of runaway slaves and Henry Thoreau's
efforts to help them and Lexington's Rev. Theodore Parker's support of the radical John Brown in the same
Robbins Hall where abolitionists Wendell Phillips,Theodore Parker, Charles Follen, and Ralph Waldo Emerson
once spoke.
Because of the Stone Building's origins in the heyday of abolitionism, Robbins Hall Museum of Slavery and
Abolitionism and the Burdoo Center for Racial Justice,therefore, are fitting venues for Lexington to explore its
local and national racial history in order to work toward a more welcoming future as a multi-ethnic community.
Financial Resources needed to implement the Proiect:
A Planning Group could begin by consulting with the Town of Lexington,the Lexington Historical Society, Cary
Library,Town Committees and staff dedicated to Human Relations, Lexington's organized multi-ethnic groups
(Association of Black Citizens, Chinese American Association of Lexington, etc.),the African-American
Museum of History in Boston, and the National Park Service. The Human Relations Committee and staff could
guide the Burdoo Center toward the most effective ways to bring groups together and the History Department at
Lexington High School and other schools could help the Planning Group to tailor educational resources to the
needs of their students for field trips to the Robbins Hall Museum and Burdoo Center.
Then the Planning Group could appoint a Program Committee to work on the educational content of the Museum
and center, a Grant writing Committee, and a Volunteer and Fund Raising Committee to get the Museum and
Center started. Mackenzie Scott and other donors have made it possible for the National Trust for Historic
Preservation(NTHP)to give $3 million dollars a year to African American historic sites,including building
money and program start-up funds. See
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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https://saving:blaces.org/stories/2021-action-fund-grant-recipients#.YRHTwNNKhSw If we write a grant soon we
could get some of this NTHP money by the Fall of 2022.
Historic New England is not so well funded as NTHP,but they are re-thinking their mission and seeking more
inclusiveness, so they might want to form some type of partnership with the Robbins Museum and the Burdoo
Center. They have useful experience with fund raising and museum management. Massachusetts Community
Preservation Grants and the Massachusetts Humanities Council, as well as the National Endowment for the
Humanities could also be funding partners.
Within Lexington a Volunteer and Fund Raising Committee could work to have events such as speakers,garden
shows,galas,progressive dinners, silent auctions, and other means to raise money. Corporate and small business
donors can also be approached and an endowment which could cover operating expenses might be a funding
option. The Burdoo Center's Black Business Incubator might be able to get funding from the National Urban
League,the N.A.A.C.P., or local business groups.
Once the Museum and Burdoo Center were up and going,walking tours of Lexington's Black history and
its Abolitionist Past could bring in revenue and admission could be charged for tours of the Museum and Burdoo
Center exhibits and special events. If the Tourism Committee could include the Robbins Museum and Burdoo
Center on bus tours about 60 people at a time could come through the building. The Civil Rights Tourism in the
South has proven an economic boon to Montgomery and other cities, and up-to-date history of slavery and
abolitionism could draw a national audience. If the Town can't make a financial commitment beyond the building
itself, a consultant could be hired to aid fund-raising and to possibly move the Museum and Center to 501 C3
status as a non-profit that coordinates with Town staff.
Beyond the building renovation (which grants mentioned above could help cover)the exhibits,books,
videos,library chairs, folding chairs and tables, screens,projectors and attachments to laptops, a sound systems, at
least 3 computers, apps, and storage, and library shelves, could total as much as $20,000. Deferred maintenance
costs for the building, cleaning and daily upkeep for the rooms being used by the Lexington public, and a
part-time coordinator of room booking,research, and volunteers would need to be funded,too,possibly by the
Town or an endowment. We would hope to engage Volunteer Robbins-Burdoo Stewards who would set up an
educational website, coordinate room bookings, and provide staffing for hours when the part-time coordinator
was not available.
What Type of Space would the Proposed Project Require? The existing rooms in the 2009 Historic Structures
Plan are attached,marked with room names and projected uses. Library shelves exist,but may need to be
modified.
What would be the anticipated timeline to achieve operation of your Project?
2021-Re-use Committee recommends the Project to the Select Board,Town Meeting votes to go ahead with the
Project,including the building
Grant applications and the Planning Group start working on fund-raising and program, consulting community
groups and academic experts
2022-Select Board-takes bids,hires a restoration architect, and work begins on the Stone Building/formerly
known as Robbins Hall
Planning Group works with the Town on the building and plans for fund-raising,program, and grant getting.
2023-Building continues and possibly funding raising goals reach the level that active program planning can
begin,publicity starts for opening and coordination with the Tourism Committee
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
49
2024-The Robbins Hall Museum of Slavery and Abolitionism and the Burdoo Center for Racial Justice
opens--sell tickets to 60 people for gala opening
Could the proponent's planning commence within 18 months or two years, assuming the Stone Building's
restoration is funded in that time frame?Yes,it should begin as soon as the Project is chosen
In what ways would the Project contribute to the Financial Operation of the Stone Building? Please see the
Financial Resources section. This proposal comes from retired historians representing other East Lexington and
other citizens of the Town who want this Museum and Center to happen because it would help Lexington become
a more historically-aware and inclusive community. We are not deep pockets who can sign the lease ourselves,but
we can try to get a larger group of Lexington citizens together to provide some funding.And we have some ability
to write grants.
How would your Proposal contribute to the Lexington Community and fulfill Ellen Stone's gift to the library'? We
believe the Robbins family would support our proposal completely. They sought ways to heal the original sin of
the U.S.--the forced enslavement of Africans. Inequality troubled Eli Robbins and his descendants and other
nearby descendants were shocked when after the bloody Civil War and the divisive Reconstruction the Ku Klux
Klan and Southern employers re-invented slavery in the form of peonage,lynching, convict labor,Jim Crow laws,
Grandfather clauses to prevent Black voting, and a reign of violence against Blacks. Brave people kept dying for
racial equality throughout the twentieth and twenty-first century. The Racial Reckoning that George Floyd's
murder is supposed to have sparked will not happen unless we work toward treating every citizen with a
knowledge of his/her/their history and a respect for their worth as a person.
The Stone Building deed fits this project well--education for students and teachers, a reading room,public
lectures, a place for classes and organizations to meet, The Re-use Committee's `Benefit Criteria"fits our project
exactly. Imagine a crisis between Chinese-American students and a Black teacher that mushrooms into a
community crisis. If the public schools wanted to have a neutral ground and a conflict mediator could be brought
in,it could be a use for the Burdoo Center. If Black or Asian students want to volunteer to do Oral History
interviews with senior members of their group the Burdoo Center could help them. Internet access could be
provided for a limited number of East Lexington residents while staff are in the building, and Lexington High
classes could work on term papers in several of the rooms,using research materials. Teachers could brind classes
or get professional development points at the Hall or at the Burdoo Center. Tutoring could be set up to support a
certain number of students, and economic development would be encouraged by the Black Business incubator.
Community groups could book meeting rooms on-line depending upon staffing availability. The Robbins Hall
Museum and the Burdoo Center promise to be partially self-supporting and they aim to be both educational and
welcoming for the whole community.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
50
#2 Stone Building Reuse Proposal
Sean Osborne and Craig Sandler with support from Eldene Chugam, Stephanie Hsu and Anne Lee
First Floor- Black Cultural Center
Massachusetts is recognized by some to be the first state to completely abolish slavery.According to the
Massachusetts Historical Society, "slavery was effectively abolished in Massachusetts,with the ruling [on July 8,
1783] by the Massachusetts Supreme Court in the Commonwealth v. Jennison case."
Prior to Massachusetts Emancipation Day, Lexington was home to Black residents who were born free,
indentured, emancipated, and enslaved. Some of them owned land. Some were baptized in the church.And some
of the Black residents who were both born free and enslaved fought in the French and Indian War and the
Revolutionary War. The stories of free, indentured, and enslaved Black residents of Colonial Lexington should be
shared with the public along the stories of the Black men,women, and children who have lived in Lexington from
the end of Revolutionary War to the present.
The Black Cultural Center would capture these stories of Lexington as seen through the eyes of the free Black
families like the Burdoos,landowners at or near 330 Bedford Street since at least 1708,when Ann Burdoo was
admitted to the church(what is now First Parish);the enslaved Black individuals who were emancipated, got
married, and had farms in Lexington like Job and Violet Locke; and the Black families who lived in Lexington in
the 1800s and sent their kids to the Adams School,the Hancock School, and other public schools in town.
One story is that of Peter Tulip,who had been enslaved and was emancipated. Peter was born in Lexington on
January 8, 1754 to Robin and Margaret Tulip.According to Lexington historian Richard Kollen, Robin was
enslaved by John Bridge and Margaret was enslaved by Amos Muzzey. Peter Tulip was emancipated by 1783 and
was engaged to Patty Oxford of Holliston. Peter and Patty Tulip (who was also known as Martha)had two
daughters who grew to adulthood: Olive,born in October 1784, and a younger Patty,born in September 1786.
According to Albert W. Bryant's article "Lexington Sixty Years Ago,"written in 1890,Peter played the fiddle at
Dudley Tavern which adjoined the Harrington estate.
There are other stories to tell. Below are class photos from two of Lexington's schools from the 1880s to 1910s.
At that time,the Adams School was located on the opposite side of Massachusetts Ave from the Unitarian
Church. There is at least one Black student in each photo. It would be interesting to know where those Black
children's families lived in Lexington and if any of their descendants are still in town.
P'igure I Adams School 1888
8
1r'igure 2 Adams School 1914
1r'igure 311an ock School 1888
8
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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F'igure 4 Hancock School 1891
F'igure 5 Hancock School 1888
F'igure 6 List(Y'Namesftom Hancock School 1888
Another important connection is Daisy Turner, of Grafton,Vermont, a poet and storyteller who was a frequent
visitor to Lexington. Some of her sisters had bought houses in the Meagherville development in Lexington at the
turn of the 20th century.A Turner descendant has lived in Meagherville ever since.
And finally,there is the Stone Building itself in East Lexington, in front of the Waldorf School of Lexington. The
Waldorf School is housed in the former Adams Elementary School. James "Jim" Banks served as the assistant
principal of Adams Elementary School from 1968 to 1971. He was the first Black assistant principal in Lexington
Public Schools.
Second Floor—East Village aka East Lexington History and Abolitionists of 19th Century Lexington
According to Anne Grady and Walter Lentz,
In the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, East Lexington became the locus of manufacturing,
entrepreneurial spirit and prosperity that outstripped the rest of Lexington. The leading industry,fur dressing, is
estimated to have employed over 300 people at its height in the 1830s. 28 other businesses and supporting trades
such as tanning, saw and grist mills, wheelwright and black-smithing shops, and a shop that sold West Indian
goods contributed to the economic vitality of the East Village, as it was called at the time.
In 1833, Ell Robbins built the Stone Building as a place to hold public lectures. Church services began to be held
in 1835 in the lecture hall at the Stone Building.According to Grady and Lentz, "it was not until the late 1840s
that antislavery speeches occurred in the building. By that time, a number of people in East Lexington were
actively supporting abolition principally under the leadership of Ell's daughter, Julia Robbins."
Julia Robbins Barrett
Julia Robbins Barrett was an ardent free thinker, abolitionist, suffragist, and proud East
Lexingtonian. Mary Keenan's wonderful 2011 book,In Haste Julia, superbly captures Julia's place in East
Lexington history and the many lectures she attended at the Lyceum. Julia can and should have a place in the East
Lexington History Center, and she would be a vigorous supporter of the Black Cultural Center.
Theodore Parker
Theodore Parker was born in 1810 in Lexington, Massachusetts near the village green where the American
Revolution began.At about the age of ten,he witnessed a re-enactment of the famous battle where "the shot heard
around the world"was fired. 1] The battle had a special meaning to him as it was his grandfather, Captain John
Parker,who commanded the militia company that first met the British regulars. His grandfather's role in the battle
Report of the Stone Building FeasibititylRe-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
52
was a matter of immense personal pride to Parker and a topic to which he would later refer to on many occasions.
According to Parker's friend and biographer Jonathan Weiss,his most prized family heirlooms were a British
musket taken from a"grenadier of the 43rd Regiment,"and his grandfather's "own light fowling-piece which he
had carried at Quebec,"both of which Parker kept in his Boston study.[2] Parker never knew his grandfather since
the captain died of dysentery a few months after the battle.As Parker wrote, "He was sick on the day of the Battle
of Lexington,but did his duty from 2 A.M. till 12 at night. On the 17th of June he was too ill to be allowed to
enter the turmoil of the Battle of Bunker Hill, so he discontentedly commanded troops who did no fighting that
day."[3]
Parker also wrote of an uncle on his father's side who had "served many years in the revolutionary war;he was in
the battles of Saratoga and of Yorktown,had failed in business, gone to South Carolina, and married a woman
with some property at Charleston,where he then lived."[4] He did not mention if some of the wife's property
might have been slaves. [5]
Parker wrote in a letter to Sarah Hunt dated June 3, 1858, "when slavery is abolished,the African population will
decline in the United States, and die out of the South as out of Northhampton and Lexington."The population of
Black folks in Lexington did not die out in Parker's lifetime and there may be some Black families who lived in
Lexington in 1860 when Parker died whose descendants still live in Lexington.
East Lexington
The Branch Library in East Lexington branch began operation on April 19, 1883 in a reading room of the old
Adams School. East Lexington residents could leave their library cards there and receive books from the Main
Library twice a week. Miss Nellie Holbrook,the first branch librarian,took the books to and from the Main
Library and kept the reading room open "at convenient hours six days of the week." During its first year,the
branch had an average of 10 patrons a day. (source:https://www.carylibrary.org/history-cary-memorial-library)
Figure 7 The OldAdams School, 1883
As the 103 families living in East Lexington began to use the East Branch,new quarters were sought. In 1891
Miss Ellen Stone offered the Stone building and about one-half acre of land adjoining Follen Church to the
Trustees for$2,000. The offer was accepted in 1893, and the East Lexington Branch was moved to the new
building from a room over Holbrook's store where it had spent the previous nine months. (Hudson,Vol. I,p. 408)
(source: https://www.carylibrary.org/history-cary-memorial-library)
Through the years the Stone building had been used as a private school, as a meeting place for the Unitarian
Society led by Charles Follen, and as a lyceum for lectures. Those who had spoken there included Ralph Waldo
Emerson, Charles Sumner,Wendell Phillips,Theodore Parker, and Josiah Quincy, Jr. ) (source:
https://www.carylibrary.org/history-cary-memorial-library)
East Lexington continues to be a home for entrepreneurs and for immigrants from Greater Boston and across the
globe. Jim Shimansky grew up in Cambridge and opened an auto repair shop in East Lexington.Accurate Brake
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53
and Alignment is now run by Jim's son Rob Shimansky.Next door to the auto repair shop is Wilson Farms which
was founded in 1884 by James Alexander Wilson,W.M. Wilson, and their brother-in-law George Reynolds. The
Wilsons were immigrants from Ireland.And in Liberty Heights,Titilayo Alabi, a primary care physician who
immigrated from Nigeria,is raising her family.
,Vigure 81,rontfa�ade of Stone Building/Carrie 1+'iske, late 1800s
It would be great to capture the oral and visual histories of East Lexington and share them in the Stone Building.
Those stories would complement the stories which would be presented as part of the Black Cultural Center.
Black Business Incubator (income generator)
The Stone Building could also become the site of a Black business incubator, a place where Black entrepreneurs
can launch and grow their businesses.A recent study found that Black entrepreneurs receive only 1%of venture
capital funding. Over 3/4 were White and over 17%were Asian.
The Black Economic Council of Massachusetts was founded six years ago to advance the economic development
of Black businesses, and might be a partner in this endeavor. Income could be generated from investors,
foundational or government grants, donations, or the rent or membership fees collected from participants.
As noted in a recent article in Forbes, "Closing the opportunity gap for Black-owned businesses starts with
acknowledging it. It starts with validating what marginalized entrepreneurs experience. It starts with taking steps
to dismantle systemic racism and to combat the ignorance that exists."
A refurbished Stone Building can serve many purposes for many people: stand as a place that honors the history
of East Lexington and the history of the Black residents who have long been a part of our community; encourage
present-day Lexingtonians to share their stories; and support Black entrepreneurs of the future.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
54
#3 Stone Building Reuse Proposal
Proposal Name: The Telephone Museum: a 501(c)(3)Teaching Museum.
Proponent: Vincent Valentine,v.valentine�telephone-museum.org, 781-314-6864
Project Summary:
Introduction•
The Telephone Museum, Inc., a 501(c)(3)public charity, is chartered to inspire children and young adults to
become engineers.As a teaching museum,we are seeking space to support up to 40 students at a time for our
workshops and lectures, enough square footage to exhibit 1000s of historical artifacts, and a quiet reading room
for our reference library containing a collection of 150 rare books,pamphlets, and periodicals. Given the scope of
the museum's operation,we respectfully request the entire Stone Building structure to become the home for The
Telephone Museum.
Lexington's Historical Telephone Significance:
Lexington, MA is the first location in the World to deploy the new telephones which did not require batteries. In
1893,the first commercial common battery switchboard was installed in Lexington's Telephone Exchange'
which was located where Rancatore's Ice Cream is on Mass Ave. The original building was moved 240 feet down
Waltham St. and still remains. The common battery switchboard required new and improved transmitters and
receivers. These new telephones were "leading edge"and garnered Worldwide interest. So quite literally,
Lexington is where the "Call Heard Around the World"took place. The Telephone Museum has in its artifact
collection an 1890s commercial common battery switchboard exactly like the one that was first deployed in
Lexington.We would be honored to have the opportunity to showcase this exhibit in the Stone Building.
Source of Funds:
The Telephone Museum, Inc. was founded in 2016 and has an ongoing Grants management program. The
museum submits an average of 20 grant applications per year and has an endowment. The museum also receives
donations on a regular basis from its followers.
Currently,we are building a sponsorship program which we project to complete in 2022.
Timeline:
Because The Telephone Museum is a well-established and turn-key operation,we expect installation of the
museum into a new location to take no longer than three months.
Stone Building Operations:
The Telephone Museum, Inc. expects to assume responsibility for utilities,maintenance, and future capital
expenses required to preserve the Stone Building. Programming costs and staffing are an ongoing part of the
museum's operations which are paid through our Grants management program and fund-raising activities as well
as support from a healthy volunteer staff. If we are awarded the use of the Stone Building,we would consider it a
lifelong commitment and expect a"100 year"lease.
Lexington Community Contribution and fulfillment of Ellen Stone's gift:
Because The Telephone Museum, 1)is a public charity 2)is a teaching museum, 3)has a reference library, 4)has
original artwork in its collection, 5)has STEM,History, and Art workshops, 6) engages in public lectures, and 7)
chartered to inspire children and young adults,we believe The Telephone Museum's mission and the Cary
Library's mission are synergistic.
1. Bell Telephone Laboratories,A History of Engineering and Science in the Bell System,The Early Years(1875-1925),pp.498-499
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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#4 Stone Building Reuse Proposal
Coffee . Community. Conversation
A vision for modern reuse of the Stone Building in East Lexington
submitted by Bob Morse,bob@bobmorse.me, 11 Joseph Rd. Lexington on 26 April, 2022
In the 17th and 18th centuries, coffeehouses were a crucial institution in English community and social life.
Coffeehouses were places where people from all walks of life could meet for conversation and commerce. In The
Social Life of Coffee, Brian Cowan describes English coffeehouses as "places where people gathered to drink
coffee,learn the news of the day, and perhaps to meet with other local residents and discuss matters of mutual
concern."
The Lexington of 2022 is in dire need of institutions that can bring members of the community together.We are
living in an increasingly polarized and isolated community. Political discourse is often toxic, and residents of the
town have limited opportunities to get to know those outside their direct social circles.
1 envision the Stone Building as a place that can, in a small way, reverse those trends. It can be a place where
members of the town can gather to meet with friends, and more importantly to meet with strangers.A place that
encourages open conversation and discussion.A modern version of the original English coffee house.
Here's what I think that would look like. The first floor of the Stone Building would house a small coffee and tea
bar. The rest of the area would be set up as a space for shared communal activities: large round tables with
comfortable chairs that groups could gather around, shelves of books, cozy corners for more intimate discussions,
cushions on the floor for kid's story times.
More importantly,the environment would be designed to encourage conversation among both friends and
strangers. Here are some ideas as to how that could happen:
• No phones or laptops would be allowed.
• The purpose of the space would be made clear to everyone who visited,with all encouraged to engage in
open conversation with those around them.
• Staff would act as social facilitators,moving the space,meeting people,making introductions and starting
conversations.
• Discussion-focused games would be available to play.
• Groups like books clubs and knitting groups would be encouraged to use the space to meet.
A series of open-to-the-public salons would be scheduled.
These are just a few possible ideas. With some creative brainstorming, I think many other options could be
developed for how to encourage people to gather and converse.
Let me be clear,the vision here is definitely not to create another Starbucks, and not to compete with those
nearby.While coffee would be served here,it would not be the focal point. The coffee would be a means to an
end, a way to get people in the door,but the chance to meet others and have a conversation is the real purpose. It
would be a place for the people of East Lexington meet their neighbors, get to know them, and break down the
barriers created by fences and property lines.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
56
APPENDIX 11
SUMMARY
The SBFRC reviewed the budgets, ownership, and funding models for 48 institutions in Massachusetts
and New England. Our findings:
• Nonprofits commonly lease publicly-owned historic buildings for costs far below market rates,
often less than $1,000 per month. Some organizations have long-term leases of up to 30 to 100
years (Brookline Arts Center, Spire).
• Several publicly-owned historic buildings were restored with CPA funds and/or grants requested
and managed by local nonprofits.
• All of the buildings supported entirely by nonprofits are part of organizations established before
1980, sometimes to before 1900. Organizations without long-term investment income do not
appear to have the resources to restore and maintain historic buildings in Massachusetts.
• Historic buildings which are publicly owned and managed typically include large event rental
facilities (banquet halls, gardens etc.)
The following institutions are organized by their type of administration and ownership.
1. Institutions by administration and ownership
2. Nonprofit administration, public ownership
3. Public administration and ownership
4. Nonprofit administration and ownership
5. Private ownership
Nonprofit administration, public ownership internet, mowing,and snow clearing are all provided
13 entries by the city." [$6758 in2019- M]
Website description:
Auburndale Community Library The Auburndale Community Library(ACL) is a
leu„i;,ip, „r,(/,dub„an.d. .I.Q,ub.rar.y..Q.1 gz non-profit community library formed in 2009 after
Newton, MA the closure of the former Auburndale branch of the
Nonprofit: Budget (2019 990):$25995, donations Newton Free Library. In addition to circulating books
100%of budget and other items,we host various community
Email from Johane Campbell,Treasurer. activities such as clubs,classes, and cultural events.
"We pay a license fee to the city,and they maintain The ACL is open to all.... We rely on volunteers to
the building. Heat,air conditioning, alarm, phone, assist patrons and on the generosity of the
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
57
community to fund our collection,events, and Non-investment income sources:
ongoing expenses. Admission:$117,381
The City has the right to use the building during Gift Shop:$75,109
hours when the library is closed.To the extent the Membership dues and contributions:$116,968
City is not using the space,the ACL has access to Rentals: $46,970
the building for a limited number of additional hours Occupancy expense(rent, utilities etc.):$95,552
beyond its usual hours of operation.When not in use The Lexington Historical Society maintains four
for ACL sponsored or City sponsored activities,the properties: Buckman Tavern,the Hancock-Clarke
space may be available to other groups,subject to House, Munroe Tavern,and The Depot (Society
the discretion of the Activities Coordinator and the Headquarters. It also runs a gift shop,
Activities Committee of the Board of Directors. presents presentes educational programs, and
See The Waban Library Center below for a similar maintains an extensive collection of historic objects,
organization. and documents.
Brookline Arts Center Community Arts Center
Ibiroolklliiineairtsceiniteir.coirrn I�u���s: www.coirrnirrnu�inii�vair�cein�eir.oir��/ou�ir stoiry
Brookline, MA Cambridge, MA
Nonprofit Budget (2019 990): $1,294,799, paying $96,408 for
Budget (2019 990) $592,823:Grants, 16%; Program occupancy. Income primarily contributions
service revenue,79% Fundraising, 5% ($1,120,161)and program revenue ($289,136)
Staff budget:$362854, 61%of budget The Community Art Center,founded in 1937, leases
Description its current building,which it moved into "with the
The Brookline Arts Center (BAC)was founded in help of the Cambridge Housing Authority" in 1999.
1964 as a small parent cooperative for children's art They raised $1.4M for renovations in 2018 for the
classes in the basement of Mim and Barney entire building,which houses multiple community
Berliner's Brookline home. It was administered by services..
volunteers and taught by a professional artist. Since
1968,the BAC has been a nonprofit educational Durant-Kenrick House
charitable institution, 501(c)3,serving as a See Jackson Homestead and Museum below
community center for the visual arts for Brookline
and Greater Boston. FiveSparks
In 1966,the BAC began efforts to lease empty Fire b.11f
Station #3 on the border of Boston and Brookline.... Harvard, MA
In early 1968,The Town of Brookline consented to Budget (2019 990): $46,741, $24,597 in revenue,
its use as an arts center and the BAC moved in. deficit of$12,513.
...Since then,the building has been in continuous use Description
by the BAC.We currently hold a 30-year lease with Collaborative hosts a variety of programs in
The Town of Brookline. town-owned former library building (Hapgood
Building, built in 1887). FiveSparks paid$2100 in
Buckman Tavern occupancy(rent, utilities etc.) and an additional
h1;, lhxl; $5,530 in "rent for space while building closed" in
Lexington, MA 2019.
Budget for four properties: (2019 Aninuall Ike
..........!.................................................
990) $713,332.The Historical Society ran an Hartshorne House
operating deficit that year, but ended up with !Lq.![s// u�r,w.leu,airtslhoirin, l�otis, ,,,,a�!Lg
$377,386 excess revenue due to investment income. Wakefield, MA
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
58
Budget: No publicly available budget documents. accommodate up to 500 people: rentals range from
This historic house,with portions dating to 1681, $2,300 to$5,800.
was purchased by the Town of Wakefield in 1929.
Since 1930,the house has been managed by a Munroe Center for the Arts
nonprofit that leases the house from the town.The Iiillf�,,;,/ZYMM.!Lrn„u,ln,ira
first floor is rented for events;the second floor is Lexington, MA
2,fg,uu,l ,ii, , ,,,,lb cairetalkeirs who live there rent-free. Budget (2018:)$502,577, revenue$545,577,
Rentals range from $150/4 hours-$500 all-day;the primarily from service fees ($503,601).
house accommodates 50 people inside, 80 outside. This 1904 elementary school was repurposed as a
The Town of Wakefield has committed $50,000 to community arts center in 1984. Unlike most other
fixing the house's roof in 2022;$25K of that nonprofits in town-owned buildings, Munroe pays
appropriation was included in the MA 2022 budget. high `occupancy”fees-$114,064 in 2018.
Jackson Homestead and Museum Simes House
www..newto.n.rrna.� ovl�:oveirinirrneinr�llruiia�oiriic ine I u : you w.sii„irrne,slh duisefouj„In, ,atii,oi...oir
a in„viia.it .rrnu� u .rrn„ aclkaoi d iia,irT] tend aind irrnu.j�,eu Plymouth, MA
,,,,,,,,, , /.,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.............................,,, (JI,;,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,, ,,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
irrn Budget (2019):$89,966 in assets, $11,413-primarily
Newton, MA $8,255"occupancy".
Budget: $397,004 to manage multiple properties and Seized for taxes in 2009,the Simes House was
collection; income primarily from contributions and managed by the Simes House Foundation.The
rants $145,268 Investments $78,791 and mansion «u, ,,,,ir ,a�,lr . with, I iiin,,,C,orrn,lrrnu�in„i
9 ( ) ( ) .... ,,
programs($65,042). If',ir. , , ,ir.v..al.io.,lnr„ �,t [2.inr s,and was also granted at
This museum and the Durant-Kendrick House and least$50,000 by the..IM. ass..aclhua!,s, ;t,u;,s [:11r.e;s ,r.y«t..!,,o.1i
Grounds are owned by the City of Newton and I[!!Lgj g! 11=Wu for interior restoration.
managed by the Newton Historical Society. (The
Society also maintains three historic burying South Harwich Meeting House
grounds)The Jackson Homestead was given to the Iii;;, , ,,;,1,�y�,uvu�,;,�,�,�;�,�,;u,l�i,«�;,Uv,,,�,u, ,l�i,irr;�,v�,��ii„u..... uou�se.coirrn/
City of Newton in 1949;The Historical Society pays South Harwich, MA
$18,890 for"occupancy”each year. Budget (2019 990): $30,089 revenue,$30,288
Rental rates are$125-$200/hour for both houses, expenses-primarily occupance, rent, utilities,
although the Durant-Kenrick House offers special maintenance.
rates for nonprofits starting at$30/hour for small Purchased by the Town of Harwich in 1996,the
meetings. house is"under license agreement"with the Friends
of the South Harwich Meetinghouse, Inc.The town
Larz Anderson Auto Museum of Harwich has appropriated at least$544,000 in
Ili,�,!,[�,s.Ma,irzaindeirsoin.or(/ CPA funds to restore the house since 2007,while the
Brookline, MA Friends raised$2 S.,Q.Q.0.
Budget: 2019 990:$842,951. Income for that year
was$975,019, mostly from $361,298 in The Spire
contributions,$470,502 in program revenue, $97,102 !Lq.![ // I ,ii„e e,in„t, it„a ir.1/
in investment income Plymouth, MA
The Museum is housed in the Carriage House in the This former synagogue and Methodist church was
Larz Anderson Park,which was donated to the town purchased by the Town of Plymouth in 2012.The
of Brookline ca. 1948.The Museum paid town spent$650,000 to restore the site.The Greater
"occupancy”of$75,642 in 2019.The site can Plymouth Performing Arts Center was given "a 100
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
59
year near free lease"for the site,which includes a Former public hospital comprising 44 buildings with
225-seat performance hall. 660,000 square feet is being redeveloped.The vision
is to have 24,000 s.f. of performing arts space and
Waban Library Center 73,000 s.f. of space for visual and culinary arts.
" !( ,,, ,,, ,,, ,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,;,,,,,,,,,,,,,,„,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,r,,,,,,yicein teir.oir(
,,,,,, ,,, «�„ ain hair
Newton, Ma Town Center of Bedford
Budget (2019 990):total for organization $53,900 I�p,i,tr g-, ( ww.lbedf d,ir „irka,,,D ov/�2AU: tnl!2ir-corrnrrnu�in
revenue, $47,064 expenses,$10,031 in ceinrteir
rent/occupancy, $10,811 for"events", $5,917 for Bedford, MA
website and technology. According to the website,"Town Center, located at
The Waban Library Center is a project of the Waban 12 Mudge Way,and Old Town Hall, located at 16
Improvement Society. Like the Auburndale library, South Road,are managed as multi-service centers
this library was closed by the city in 2008,and by Town Center of Bedford, Inc.,a non-profit
re-opened by a nonprofit in 2009.The Waban Library organization" However,there is no nonprofit by that
Center leases the building from the City of Newton, name that has filed form 990 in the last decade,
and is staffed by volunteers.Thirty three volunteers although it appears that the Town spent at least
working to keep the library open six days a week. $2,510,000 on the building in 2014, and maintains a
$150,000 revolving fund for the building,according
Public Administration and Ownership to the,,,,;., „I,,; ;,,,,II,3edfor ,,,,;Fowin,,,,,, �;��, ,U;i,and.202I,,,,,,;;;rowin,
IM eeti.1
.1
Commander's
Commander's Mansion The Town Center's tenants include the Bedford
” /( „ ,,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,,, ,,,;,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,1r."`,,1.........,,,,;,,,,,,,,,,," ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,( Chamber of Commerce, Bedford Youth and Family
n,g: u�r,u�r.coirrnirrnaindeir irrnain iioin.coirrn
Watertown, MA Services,and the Bedford Council on Aging.The
Publicly owned Town is currently debating v,I u, l ulr,;t..o,leu,ii.1r.2,a;fl.j.1l„I,;;;1,ii„q;n
Description custodiiain for the Town Center.
Accommodates up to 200 guests inside or under a
tent on 7-acre lawn; hosts ca. 125 weddings a year. Whittemore-Robbins House
Rents for$2000-$5000 for 8 hours,depending on Arlington, MA
day/time. This historic house owned by the town of Arlington
houses some town offices and offers rentals for
Crosby Mansion events.The interior can seat 90 people indoors at
I u,i, // r, r,, lra ,lk iiTiansii,on.coi[TV tables, 250 outdoors with tents. Rents for ca.
,,,,....
Brewster, MA $250/hour.The Whittemore-Robbins house received
Publicly owned $154,000 in town CPA funds for exterior
The town pays a single employee$39,499 to rehabilitation in 2019.
manage and renovate the mansion.As of 2019,the
Town of Brewster established a$200K revolving The town of Arlington also rents event space in the
fund to receive income from facility rentals and pay ,�,e;;ffers,on,,,,C u�„t;te;lr,,,,l1lou�se
off mortgages for repairs.
Nonprofit Administration and Ownership
Medfield State Hospital
.!q, //Irrn, „�;ii, ,ll, �,u�„Il,�,u,lr,g,,,a..rel/,�,u�,ll,�,u,lr,«�,Il,,,,�,g,lnl, i... b�„iill, /r ira„II Concord Museum
ci,,,, lar.v.122, Ing;i;tri,s,,,/,,/,conl,coir, irrnu seu�„irrn; IrgZ
Medfield, MA Budget (2019 990) $2,101,736 in 2019. Received
Publicly owned $2,358,340 in contributions.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
60
Local museum owned by the Concord Antiquarian donations,and ticket revenue. It would not exist
Society,which purchased the initial Museum without the help of all those who have generously
property in 1887.The Museum had more than supported the James with both their time and
$20,000,000 in assets as of 2019. donations"
French Cable Station Museum Merwin House
www. ireinclhcalblle tatuoinurnu�seuiurn.oir� iiindex.l�ii� I�ujt[s: www.1hiistoiriicinewein( Ilaind.oir�
irrn u ouse/
Orleans, MA Stockbridge, MA
Established in 1972,this organization has no tax This Historic New England property was acquired in
returns publicly available since 2007-but at that 1966. It serves as a museum and as the locationas
time,the museum's expenses were$47,775 with location of the Berkshires office of the Housatonic
$18,549 in revenue(mostly from investments),and Valley Association.
assets of$484,988.
The Old Manse
Fruitlands Museum !Lq.!,
illn, olld iTnainse.1hUTn/ M ,
tetrustees.oirfiruitlainds rruConcord,
,,, l, ,
Harvard, MA Purchased by the Trustees of Reservations in 1939,
This large museum complex has been open to the The Old Manse has been nonprofit-owned and
public in some form since 1914. Fruitlands was operated as a museum for more than 80 years.
acquired by the Trustees of Reservations in 2016.
Old Schwamb Mill
Golden Ball Tavern jj.j.t,[ - ll, scleu,u�«�iTilk;�lr;rnii,ll,lj,,;oi(
.... ....
ILq.!,[ // mm,m!!k!n,lk,« Illi,,«y ,lrin,a,lr, /I uii,s,to!Ly Arlington, MA
Weston, MA Budget (2019 990): $152,369 revenue,$68,675
The trust supporting this muse ished in 1964.The expenses. Revenue was primarily membership dues
museum received$229,534 in investment income in ($21,046), grants($41,525),and contributions
2019 to support a budget of$157,645,along with ($51,678), with $16050 rent (presumably fromform
$15,075 in membership dues and $107,059 in other Workbar). Expenses were"occupancy" ($24,523),
contributions and grants. and"outside services" ($20,625.)
The Old Schwamb Mill was acquired by the
James Library& Center for the Arts Schwamb Mill Preservation Trust in 1970. It hosts a
I u......,/„/ ujr,ur,jj«,Irrn, .!iilblr, lr„y,,a it / variety of public programs, and has also housed a
Norwell, MA Workbar office since 2016. It was restored in
Budget: Expenses are hard to calculate as money 2016-2019 using at least$137,000 in Arlington CPA
seems to be passed back and forth with the church. money.
From 990s: 2017 expenses$16,447;2018, $387,3971-
2019,
387,397;2019,$64,701 Royall House and Slave Quarters
This library is owned by the First Parish of Norwell, b,tt.r lr,a y« Illl,l u,a,u„ ,a lr
and is maintained via a charitable trust. It was Medford, MA
opened to the public in 1874 and served as the town Budget (2019 990): Revenue$147,692. $80,128
library until 1973.The Town has a.jsed Ll:1A. irrnoiney, lr„ contributions and grants,$41,5674 investment
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
reinova!!!.2.us.. income, remainder program service,other revenue.
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
"The James Library and Center for the Arts is Expenses$87,736,for salaries ($37,268) $6,441 for
self-supporting and dependent on financial support investment management fees,$9,211 for insurance,
from the local business community, individual
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
61
$21,674 for repair and maintenance,$3,596 for year through 2032,and $26,643.96 from 2032-2034,
utilities. according to the Museum's 2.017 Coirrnrrnuiniity.
,, , ,,
This historic home and onlyknown extant separate I::ireseirvatiioin Act al ll,ii................................
, iiia,ln; it is unclear why the
p a .
......................................................................................................
slave quarters in the northern United States was 2019 reported occupancy expenses are only
preserved by the Daughters of the American $28,757. In 2017,Waltham's Community
Revolution,and has been owned by the Royall House Preservation Committee awarded the Museum
Association since 1907. In 2021 The Royall House $350,000 for a wheelchair elevator,two ramps,and
received a 10-year grant totalling $250,000 from the climate control systems.
Cumming Foundation in 2021,as well as a$15,400 The Museum rents space for up to 150 people for
grant for`"`Expanding the Story of Northern Slavery" events,charging $1500-$5000 for the whole venue,
from Mass Humanities, as well as$25,000 from the ca. $1000 for"cocktail packages".
New England Foundation for the Arts"
Garrity House
Scottish Rite Masonic Museum and Library IJ.I.t,rr, Ir;rn, ,s,s,,leu„astolr,ii,cb.uj,ii„.,duin.� sct.coirrn ?n 637
,IWww,;siri[TIIrrnll,,.or Lexington, MA
.......................
Lexington, MA Privately owned
Budget: (2019):$3,099,892; utilities alone were A complex of several farm buildings once
$595,423 for this large complex. $3,318,868 in surrounded the Buckman Tavern in Lexington.The
income, primarily from investments ($2,197,368), only ones to survive today are a Federal-style
contributions,and program service revenue carriage house and the adjacent Garrity House. Built
This museum and library, established in 1975, in the first half of the nineteenth century,the Garrity
houses a conference center,auditorium,and offices House is privately owned today, although the Town
in addition to exhibit space. maintains the grounds through a land lease and
preservation agreement.
Private Ownership
Weston Art and Innovation Center
Charles River Museum of Industry IJ.I.tr,g,, ( estoIn,aiic.oirg Weston, MA.The Art and
....
Iu,i, // ujr,ur,, lu,« Innovation Center is the makerspace branch of the
Waltham, MA Weston Public Library.The AIC is a self-sustaining
Budget (2019):$364,584; largest expenses are institution committed to literacy, knowledge and
$134,898 for salaries, $86,598 for"exhibit expenses,” community with an emphasis on hands-on learning.
$33,943 depreciation,$28,757 for rent (see below), The studios are available to anyone developing new
$24,614 for office expenses. Income$396,520, skills, expanding a hobby,starting a small business
primarily from contributions and grants ($191,786), or just pursuing an idea with the goal of seeing it
program revenue ($89,343), rentals ($75,782 net) through to reality.The Reading Room is a vibrant and
and admissions ($29,665) active cultural center that hosts performances,
The Charles River Museum of Industry was founded exhibitions and educational workshops and is
in 1980,when a group started raising funds.The available for rent by the public.The vision is to be a
Museum finally opened to the public in a three-story neighborhood space where residents of Weston and
former boiler house in 1988.The Museum leases its beyond can congregate in a collaborative spirit to
premises from the neighboring apartment complex, learn together,create, and use equipment that might
and has done so since 1982.The current 20-year not be found in the typical home. Donations are
lease expires in 2034, and amounts to$40,200 per made through the Foundation for Metrowest.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
62
APPENDIX 12
... °„
II Ir ..�II, IILII II r.,lr II1 1,1
I d
Most Relevant Parts of Lexington Community Needs Assessment, 2020
Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee
NOTE: The Community Needs Assessment mostly focuses on outdoor space or indoor spaces used for
sports or fitness, such as swimming pools. This summary only includes highlights of the report that
pertain to the Stone Building. The entire report is here:
https://www.lexingtonma.gov/sites/g/files/yyhlif7l 01/f/uploads/lexington_report_200930_with_full_a
ppendix 1_0.pdf
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
PURPOSE OF REPORT: The Community Needs Assessment examines the public recreation supply and
citizen demand for those services. The intent is to strengthen the existing inventory of parkland,
pathways,facilities/amenities, recreation, programs, and services within Lexington. (p1)
PROCESS: The Town of Lexington Community Needs Assessment followed an iterative process of data
collection, public input, on-the-ground study, assessment of existing conditions, market research, and
open dialogue with local leadership and key stakeholders (p1)
KEY RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. Programming
• Utilize the MacMillan Matrix to help plan recreation programming
• Enhance and lead outdoor recreation, cultural programming, and therapeutic recreation
• Collaborate and build partnerships to deliver before and after school programming,
enrichment activities, arts &crafts, and STEAM programs
• Further explore the potential to implement outdoor events, historical programs, and
nature programs
2. Facilities
• Invest in high priority facilities, infrastructure, and support amenities....
3. Maintenance
• Formalize (written) facility maintenance agreements with other Departments and entities that
contribute to the system's operations and maintenance
• Adopt equipment replacement schedules based on lifecycle and projected use
• Formalize (written) maintenance standards (level of care) based on park classification,
typology, and desired use and quality
• Continue the focus of making ADA improvements throughout the system
4. Community Marketing
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
63
• Create a position that will create "the face" of the Department in order to:
• Utilize "traditional" marketing strategies along with implementing new ways to reach residents
5. System Funding
• Establish a Foundation
• Establish dedicated maintenance funding mechanisms
6. Park Classifications
• Adopt park classifications based on a set of criteria
• Design, manage, and operate each park site based on a set of desired outcomes
7. Business Planning (pp2-3)
CHAPTER 2: COMMUNITY PROFILE
LEXINGTON RECREATION &COMMUNITY PROGRAM DEPARTMENT MISSION: To provide affordable,
quality programs that meet the needs of the community. We are committed to providing active and
passive leisure opportunities that are educational, fun, and life-enriching. The Recreation Department
promotes participation by all Lexington residents in safe, accessible, and well-maintained facilities. (p4)
LEXINGTON PARKS AND RECREATION GOVERNANCE: In addition to Lexington Recreation &
Community Program Departmen the following entities also play integral roles within the system's
management:
• Department of Public Works
• Public Schools
• Human Services
• Department of Land Use, Health and Development
The Recreation Committee, Select Board, and other committees including the Capital Expenditures
Committee,the Bicycle Advisory Committee, and the Council on Aging are involved. (pp4-5)
TOWN DEMOGRAPHICS: Key takeaways are from the demographic analysis:
• Minimal population growth is expected
• Residents ages 60-74 is the group estimated to have the most growth in coming years
• The populace is mostly White and Asian. The Asian population is projected to have the
most growth in coming years.
• Per capita household income is greater than state and national amounts. Many
households have time and disposable income for recreation. (pp5-6)
COMMERCIAL RECREATION MARKET POTENTIAL: In addition to sports,fitness, and outdoor activities,
various commercial recreation activities were examined for local market trends. Commercial recreation
has the most activities above the national average MPI [Market Potential Index; National average=100]
than any other category. Attended Classical Music/ Opera Performance (208), Went to Art Gallery
(203), and Went to a Museum (201) are the top three MPIs for the category and are well above the
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
64
national average. Other activities that expect higher than average participation among residents
include: Went to Live Theater (189),Attended a Dance Performance (177), Did Photography (152), and
Attended a Sport Event (146). (p9
CHAPTER 3: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
INTERVIEWS AND FOCUS GROUPS
SYNTHESIS AND KEY THEMES: The following were key themes based on interviews and focus groups
• It is critical to identify needs and wants
• Indoor space is lacking
• There is a desire to have community coordination
• An overall determination needs to be made regarding the value parks and recreation gets
within the community. Parks and recreation is/can be a direct contributor to solving Town-wide
problems.
o Reducing social isolation
o Positively affecting healthy living
o Restorative services and mental health contributions
o Emotional and social growth
o Building a resilient community
• Cultural diversity should be an integral part of the Department's programming.
• Inclusion and accessibility
• Alternate funding sources may be required Two strategies in particular were mentioned and
supported by various stakeholders: sponsorships and naming rights.
• Staff are a great asset to the Town....
• Sport field maintenance can be improved....
• All recreation providers need to work collectively to not duplicate services. (pp10-12)
STATISTICALLY VALID COMMUNITY SURVEY
PROGRAM NEEDS: Respondents were also asked to identify if their household had a need for 30
programs and rate how well their needs for each program were currently being met. Based on this
analysis, ETC Institute was able to estimate the number of households in the community that had
"unmet" needs for each program.
The four recreation programs with the highest percentage of households that have an unmet need
were:
1. Fitness and wellness programs - 2,469 households (or 20%)
2. Outdoor water recreation - 2,428 households (20%)
3. Cultural performances - 2,327 households (19%)
4. Enrichment programs - 2,082 households (17%) (p20)
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
65
Estimated Number of Households Whose Needs for
Programs Are Met Partly Met, Mostly Unmet, and Not Met
by number of households based on an estimated 12,149 households in the Town of Lexington(MA)
Fitness&wellness programs 2,463
Outdoor water recreation 2,428
Cultural performances 2,327
Enrichment programsUIU!!!!lllllllld 2,082
Outdoor events 1,307
Performing arts programs 1,304
Outdoor programming in parks 1,783
Outdoor recreation 1,603
Nature programs 1,536
Senior programs(60+) 1,580
Historical programs 1,486
Aquatic programs 1,473
Adult sports leagues&tournaments 1,304
Community gardening programs 1,257
Family or multi-age group programs 1,188
Adult programs(18+' 1,1.80
Arts&crafts 1,165
Programs with your pet SII 1,04.1
Science,Tech,Engineering,Art&Math programs 311
Holiday/out of school programs 866
Summerdaycamp programs f 842
Teen(12-17)programs 838
After school programs 707
Social service programs 706
Adaptive Recreation f 632
Trips 680
Youth sports leagues,tournaments,&camps 646
Technology programs 465
Before school programs 135
Summer meal assistance foryouth 43
0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000
Source: ETC,Institute(2020) Partly Mlet -=Mostly unmet Not Met
Figure 8: Program Unmet Needs- Households
PROGRAM IMPORTANCE: In addition to assessing the needs for each program, ETC Institute also
assessed the importance that residents placed on each program. Based on the sum of respondents'
top four choices,the four most important programs to residents were:
1. Outdoor events (30%)
2. Outdoor recreation (30%)
3. Cultural performances (27%)
4. Fitness and wellness programs (24%)
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
66
%4.7. Programs Most Important to Households
by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their trap four choices
Outdoor events D1V,U11ll)11)J11JIl1DIIIll11J111111JJ x111JJJ1J1���������������������������������������� 30%
Outdoor recreation 30x'0
Cultural performances 27%
Fitness&wellness programs O/O/O/O/O/O%/ ( 24%
5e!niiorprograms(60+) 17
HlistodcaIprograms 16%
Performing arts programs 14%
Aquaticpro grams O///GBDUDDUI 11%
Enrichment programs � )������������', 10%
Natore programs 8%
Adaptive Recreation 7%
Summer day camp programs Dll�U ......1 7'%
Afterschool programs 7'%
Outdoor programming in parks EIIIIIIIII. 7%
Adult sports leagues&tournaments ODDIIV➢D11111 ! 6%
Science,Tech,Engineering,Art&Math programs 6%
Qutdoorwvat'er recreation 6%
Arts&crafts lllllllllll 6%
Youth s,parts Ile agues,touma!nents,&camps 6%
Teen(12-17)programs 6%
Adult programs(18+) 5%
Social service programs 4%
Programs with your pet 11)161 .... 4%
Community gardening programs N 4%
Family or multi-age group programs Ora
Holiday/oust of school programs »111llllli 3%
Trips 2%
Technology programs 111! 1%
Before school programs 1 1%
Summer meal assistance for youth 0X.
0% 104✓b 20% 30% 40% 50%
S'ou!rce: ETC Institute(2020) Most Important NOR,21nid Choice iouuoui 3rd Choice 4th Choice
FiSu're 9: PrToSram Importance
Responding households were asked what programs they and/or members of their household would use
most often. Based on the sum of respondents'top four choices,the four programs households would
use most often are:
1. Outdoor recreation (31%)
2. Outdoor events (28%)
3. Cultural performances (25%)
4. Fitness and wellness programs (22%) (p21)
PRIORITIES FOR PROGRAM INVESTMENTS: "The Priority Investment Rating (PIR) was developed by
ETC Institute to provide organizations with an objective tool for evaluating the priority that should be
placed on Parks and Recreation investments. The Priority Investment Rating (PIR) equally weighs (1)
the importance that residents place on amenity/program and (2) how many residents have unmet
needs for the facility/program.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
67
Based on the Priority Investment Rating (PIR),the following nine programs were rated as high priorities
for investment:
• Cultural performances (PIR=183) [Defined as "ticketed concerts,theatre, dance"]
• Fitness and wellness programs (PI R=178)
• Outdoor events (PI R=177)
• Outdoor recreation (PI R=165)
• Performing arts programs (PIR=125) [Defined as "dance, music,theatre"]
• Senior (60+) programs (PIR=121)
• Outdoor water recreation (PIR=118)
• Enrichment programs (PIR=117) [Defined as "cooking, language, photo, chess"]
• Historical programs (PIR=112)" [Defined as "classes, events,tours, living history"] (p22)
Top Priorities for Investment for Programs
Based on the Priority Investment Rating
Cultural performances Ill
Fitness&wellness program
Outdoor events
uuiuluwwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuVliwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuwiwuwuwiuuVliwuwuwiuu
Outdoor recreation
Performing arts programs ,wiwiiwNwi�iwNwi�iwNwiwNwi�iwNwi�iwNwimiWNwi�iwNwi�iwNwimiwlwi�iwNwi�iwNwi�iw�Nwi�iwNwimiw�t
Senior programs(W+)
IOUNIWIWIIWIUuIUUINuOWOWUUNIWIWIUUI NINIWIINIINIIWIUuIUUINuOWOWUUNIWIWIUUI NINIWIINIINIIWIUuIUUINuOWOWUUNIWIWIUUI NINIWIINIINIIWIUtiIUUINuOWOWUIW 'Ili �
0 ut door ware r re cre a t io n o of
uuiuiuiivliuuuuriuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuioiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiui�uiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiuNiuiuiuiuiuiuiuiui
Enrichment programs u
9wwwlwwwlu�u uUwlu�u uUwluluiulUvulu�u uUwlu�u uUwlu�u utiluulu�u uUwlu�u uUwlu�u uUUVlu�u uUwlu�u uUwlu�uuUwlulu uU.
Historical programs
Aquatic programs
Outdoor programming in parks
Nature:programs
Adult sports leag u e s&tourna ments
Arts&crafts
Community gardening programs
Adult programs(18+) a
Family or multi-age group l programs o e ro
Science,Tech,Engineering,Art&Math programs
Summer day camp programs
Programs with your pet
Teen(12-17')programs
Adaptive Recreation
After school programs
Holiday/out of school programs
Youth sports leagues,,tournaments,&camps
Social service programsw e s
Trips
Technology programs
Before school programs
Summer meal assistance foryouth
0 40 so lap 150 zoo
Source: ETCanstrtute(2020)
Figure 10 Priority Investment Ratings Programs
ORGANIZATIONS USED FOR INDOOR/OUTDOOR RECREATION ACTIVITIES: The organizations that
were used most for indoor and outdoor recreation activities, during the past 12 months,were: libraries
(75%), movie theaters (53%), shopping malls (37%), private fitness clubs (36%), and Lexington
Recreation and Community Programs (35%). (p26)
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
68
FUNDING: Compared to other Town services (police, schools, etc.), respondents were asked how
important it is to them to fund parks,trails, and recreation programs and facilities. 86% indicated it is at
least equally important. Respondents supported the following efforts: formalize and expand fundraising
efforts, partner with similar providers to operate facilities and provide services, and develop corporate
naming rights and sponsorships. (p26)
ONLINE COMMUNITY SURVEY: An online survey (powered by SurveyMonkey) was deployed to gain a
better understanding of the characteristics, preferences, and satisfaction levels of Town of Lexington
residents.
CHAPTER 4: EXISTING SYSTEM: PARKS AND FACILITIES
PARK CLASSIFICATIONS: The report covers several types of parks with different purposes, including
"Special Use Facilities" and Signature Parks"
SPECIAL USE FACILITIES: Special use parks are those spaces that do not fall within a typical park
classification and usually serve a single purpose. Special use parks generally contain one facility or
amenity that falls into the following categories:
• Historic/Cultural/Social Sites
• Indoor Recreation Facilities
SIGNATURE PARKS: Signature parks are locations within a parks system that help define the
community.
• Brand
• Impactful
• Place-maker
• Regional attraction
• Scalable
• Mission-centric
• Economic growth
• Revenue
• Underserved market (p45)
LEVEL OF SERVICE (LOS) STANDARDS: Level of Service (LOS) standards are guidelines that define
service areas based on population that support investment decisions related to parks, facilities, and
amenities. (p47)
INDOOR RECREATION SHORTAGE: In terms of indoor space, Lexington has a shortage of
approximately 33,000 ft. of indoor recreation space. Essentially, given the size of the current Lexington
Community Center,the LOS deficit equates to another facility of similar size. (p47)
CHAPTER 5: EXISTING SYSTEMS: PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
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PROGRAM LOCATIONS: Approximately half of all LRCPD programming occurs at the Lexington
Community Center (or at least on the grounds). This indicates a large reliance on this facility and its
spaces. Recreation programs would benefit from increased indoor recreation programming
space....(p71)
CHAPTER 6: COMMUNITY NEEDS ANALYSIS
OVERALL APPROACH: The Community Needs Assessment takes a community-wide approach to
implementation;therefore, some items that are identified as a community need may fall out of the
purview of the Lexington Recreation and Community Programs Department. In these instances,the
Department may be in a better position to "support" implementation. This approach is taken to highlight
how collaboration, partnerships, and collective understanding are required to fully meet community
needs. Additionally,this approach is taken because several identified needs span the Department's
locus of control. (p72)
TOWN FRAMEWORK: The Select Board organizes a two-year workplan that outlines the Board's overall
goals and top priorities. The current priorities are:
• Top priorities
o Thriving local economy
o Create a predictable framework for permitting process
o Engage in a community conversation to define what attractive and vibrant would look
like for Lexington
o Work with businesses and property owners to develop creative and integrated solutions
o Livability
o Develop effective transportation solutions
o Review residential zoning for ways to create new housing opportunities and protect the
diversity of existing housing stock
• High priorities
o Quality infrastructure, amenities and municipal services
o Community character
o Create and communicate a plan for broadening diversity of Town staff
o Town-wide fiscal stewardship
o Develop a capital master plan that encompasses all capital items and incorporates the
School's Master Plan
• Other priorities
o Implement the Sustainable Action Plan and getting to Net Zero Emissions Plan
• 250th celebration
o Two-way communication (p72)
EVALUATION OF PROGRAMMING: Section 6.3 (p73) discusses programming and how to evaluate the
strengths and weaknesses of programming in relation to alternative coverage (MacMillan Matrix).
PROGRAM AREAS TO WORK TOGETHER: There is a strong school/education system, Human Services
Department, and local library presence. These entities would make great partners. Working
collaboratively and/or supporting the best "competitor" will increase the creative and integrated
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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solutions to addressing community need. Additionally,this will enhance the Department's fiscal
stewardship. (p74)
INDOOR RECREATION: Needed indoor space should be multi-functional and include programmable
space, meeting rooms,fitness and exercise rooms, walking tracks, and gymnasiums at a minimum. A
facility in similar size to the existing Community Center is warranted. (p76)
SYSTEM FUNDING: Financing parks and recreation continues to evolve. Public funds are still largely
used to provide programs, services,facilities, and amenities; however, non-reverting funds, cost
recovery, and funding source diversification are continuing to grow in both importance and necessity.
When asked how important it is to fund parks,trails, and recreation programs and facilities within
Lexington, residents overwhelmingly said it is at least equally important (if not more important)
compared to other Town services (Figure 59). (p78)
Q6. Compared to other Town services (such as police,schools,
public facilities, public works, planning,etc.), how important is it
to fund parks,trails, and recreation programs and facilities?
hw per'c>r*ntagi f reslpondmmts whoa(without"do not know/no pmference")
r
wemrximonoiWiIIt II '��IVUU��I�U1�k�Ulk
M.d,omurr;irriph't"u'd Muwe lm,Portaoit FyuuaIlVy'oirnportdrit "rrprxtint �r rrc leve innp0ma n
5n oe:EPC lnstitul.Q2020(_
Figure 59:Funding Support
To achieve and realize community residents' vision for system funding, new funding mechanisms are
recommended:
• FOUNDATIONS: Foundations enable individuals, organizations, and other entities a different
channel to close the gap between identified public needs and available public funds.
Foundations support park systems through garnering advocacy, generating philanthropic
support, and inspiring the community to action. Additionally, foundation support can be used for
capital campaigns for specific amenities and facilities that would help improve the system.
• DEDICATED MAINTENANCE FUNDING: Many systems utilize maintenance endowment funds
dedicated exclusively for a park's maintenance,funded by a percentage of user fees from
programs, events, and rentals, and dedicated to protect the asset where the activity is occurring.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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Alternatively, systems with fee-based facilities and/or parks utilize internal park improvement
funds created from a percentage of the overall park admissions. (p79)
CHAPTER 7 APPENDIX
Chapter 7 includes greater detail and definitions and demographics, national recreation trends,
assessments of individual sites across town, equity maps, and survey findings.
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APPENDIX 13
The Stone Building has potential to operate community programs, support educational and community
education and provide a venue for speakers and performances. An ideal solution would be to have an
experienced non-profit oversee the restoration and supervise the programming through a lease of the
entire building. The non-profit could collect fees for event rental and in the spaces located throughout
the building.
If the Lyceum and second floor rooms were used for programming, and the south side of the building
was to be used for community gathering space,there would be 565 SF of rentable space on the north
side of the ground floor that could be used for interpretive exhibits that could include the historic
themes suggested. If this space were to be charged a rate of$20/SF it would only realize $11,310 of
annual rental income, which would not be enough to pay running costs of the building.
From our case studies of historic buildings owned by municipalities and run by nonprofits, it appears
that the nonprofits pay rents substantially below market rate. Any future decisions on rental charges
should involve a more thorough analysis than this committee was prepared to perform. The numbers
below were taken from online 99Os and in some cases, conversations with executive directors of the
organizations operating the properties.
Community Arts Center(Cambridge,MA)
Occupancy paid to city(2019):$96,408
Square footage:20,700
$/SF:$4.65
Larz Anderson Auto Museum(Brookline,MA)
Occupancy paid to city(2019):$75,642
Square footage:The site can accommodate up to 130 people indoors,500 outdoors:rentals range from$2,300 to
$5,800.
Munroe Center for the Arts(Lexington,MA)
Occupancy paid to town:$24,000
Square footage: 11,680
$/SF:$9.76
NOTE:MCA schools serve over 1400 students/yr,generate about$20/SF
Simes House(Plymouth,MA)
Occupancy paid to town(2019):$8,255
Square footage: 5,000(a;pp
r )
$/SF:$1.61
The Spire(Plymouth,MA)
Occupancy paid to town:°'I.Vehrl free"100-year lease,225-seat performance hall
Waban Library Center(Newton,MA)
Occupancy paid to city(2019):$10,031
Square footage:j,,,, ,;q,,,
$/SF.:$2.19
With regard to potential programming revenue, if the Lyceum were to charge an annual subscription of
$500 to 60 people (max. occupancy) for events in the hall,that could bring in $30,000. This could pay
for a part-time staff member (at 20 h/wk, $25/hr). Potential income from any tourist activity is
unknown at this time.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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APPENDIX 14
Since the 2009 Report was completed 13 years ago,there have been building code changes and
significant cost increases.
• Massachusetts has adopted a new building code to conform to international standards
• In 2018,the state adopted a special building code specific to historic properties.
Specific items that should be reviewed in the updated studies for the 2009 report include:
• Consider installation of a lift instead of an elevator
• Renovating the basement level as useable space
• Review accessibility needs for all spaces, and as part of the main entrance
• Consider the attached ell and whether its rebuilding would be the'restoration' of a structure or
"'new construction"
• Explore possibilities of including a small kitchen area and informal cafe area
• Schematic drawings to present for review to Lexington's Historic Districts Commission, and
Design Review Team
• Technology to allow for Lyceum broadcasting
In order to complete the Stone Building for 2025-26 and the arrival of an estimated quarter million
visitors to Lexington (based on pre-pandemic visitor center counts), preliminary studies must be
completed for applying to the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) for inclusion in FY 2024
Community Preservation Act funding. Bidding, award and completion of work will take at least 18
months, and perhaps far longer.
Preparing contract bid documents for the restoration of the Stone Building
There are five key sections of the 2009 Historic Structures Report which must be updated so that the
Select Board and Public Facilities Department can move forward with the Stone Building's
rehabilitation. The necessary reports are outlined in the table below.
• Re-evaluate the required building improvements considering the building's current condition,
improvements made in 2010-2011 by HK,T and the updated Massachusetts building code.
• Prepare new scaled plans based upon 2009 drawings
• Prepare Revised Structural Evaluation
• Prepare Revised Building Rehabilitation Cost Estimate that includes evaluation and pricing of
exterior building components and reflect the updated state building code and Town energy
efficiency requirements
• Prepare construction bid package based upon revised structural evaluation and updated
building condition assessment
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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• The Public Facilities Department may wish to consult with a few members of the Stone Building
Committee who are knowledgeable in historic building rehabilitation and contracting
requirements.
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APPENDIX 15
The information below is taken from p 150-151 of the Historic Structures Report (with the proposed ell
described here for accessibility).
Stone Building Areas,
First Floor Square Foot Area Total Areas
South IRom 560
Front Nortl 220
Rear Frorit 240
Center Hal 360
North &de 95
1,475
Second Floor
Ly c e A,,i mi 900
Rear SOUth 250
Rear North 240
Sta 1 r way 145
11535 3,0110
Ell
First Floor
Lobby 95
Anteroom 60
Rest Room 55
Vestible 65
Storage leo 40
315
Second Floor
Lobby & Ar 155
Rest Room 55
Vestible 40
Storage Ro 40
Stairway 200
490 805
3,815 Total SF
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APPENDIX 16
The following email was sent to people who had submitted their email address when registering for a
Stone Building forum and those that enrolled themselves in the Constant Contact database set up on
the Stone Building web page. Following the email are the responses received as of 17 May 2022.
Dear{{first name)),
The Stone Building Feasibility Reuse Committee is currently drafting our final report.As a person who has
expressed interest in the future of the Stone Building, we would like to ask you if you would feel comfortable
writing a letter of support(email or email attachment is fine) for the committee's proposed vision for the
future of the Stone Building. You may format the letter(email) any way you see as appropriate, but ask that
you do include a mention of the vision you are supporting. The current vision (cut and paste if helpful)is
shown below.
In the short term, a personal letter from you ASAP would be appreciated, in the longer term,a letter of
support from any organizations you may belong to would be most useful. Please see
lexingtonma.gov/stonebuilding for a video recording of, and the slide deck from, our most recent summary
forum.
While your support letter will be helpful whenever it arrives, to have the most impact for our presentation to
the Trustees of Cary Library please respond by 2pm Sunday May 15th if at all possible.
Stone Building Feasibility Reuse Committee Vision for future of Stone Building:
1. '21 st Century'Lyceum programming
a. Give people an opportunity to participate in conversation and debate, hear speakers,
attend performances, while prioritizing social justice,intercultural relations,and education
2. Historical exhibits (primarily two-dimensional)and related programs
a. Interpret the building's 19th-century origins as well as its social and political context
(Lyceum, social reform movements,slavery, abolition, women's rights,immigration, etc.)
and the relationship of these histories to present-day issues
b. Other forms of interpretation such as an online tour,neighborhood walking tour,
children's resources, might be included
c. Historical interpretation should inspire curiosity and deep understanding of complex
issues
3. Meeting spaces,including an inclusive, comfortable, casual,public lounge(for all) to come
together with friends and neighbors of all ages
Sincerely,
Stone Building Feasibility Reuse Committee
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Kerry Dunne,Ed.D./Social Studies Department Head/Lexington High School
April 23,2022
To Whom it May Concern, April 23, 2022
As the history and social studies department head at Lexington High School, and as a social studies educator and
leader in the Boston area for the past 24 years,including 2 years as the K-12 Director for the Boston Public
Schools, and 7 years as the K-12 Director for the Arlington Public Schools, I am writing to offer my full,
enthusiastic support for the restoration and repurposing of the historic Stone Building in Lexington MA.
This building has a unique and interesting heritage as the site of reform movement activism in the 19th Century,
particularly in the years surrounding the Civil War—in a town with a wealth of historic sites connected to the
American Revolution,this diversifies our possibilities for place-based education and learning. I can certainly
envision active,hands-on learning opportunities for students across the grades studying reform movements, civic
action, and immigration—all themes emphasized in the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary
Education's state frameworks for history and social science which form the core of our K-12 social studies
learning in Lexington.
The building's heritage has been accurately construed as a"lyceum." In a school district rich with talented
teachers and students of diverse heritages but short on space for meetings,workshops, and other gatherings,I can
see the Stone Building filling this vital need and carrying its tradition as a vibrant place for collaboration through
the 21 st Century and beyond. I can assure you that my history and social studies department would LOVE to use
this renovated space as a site for developing curriculum, listening to speakers, and facilitating workshops. The
location is in a part of Lexington with excellent access to public transportation,which also adds to the utility of
the building for students and our faculty.
In short, as the representative of the history and social studies department at Lexington High School,I am "all in"
with my support for the preservation,updating, and repurposing of the historic Stone Building site, and I am
happy to answer any further questions or be a part of the process as it unfolds. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Kerry Dunne, Ed.D.
Social Studies Department Head
Lexington High School
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Barbara Katzenberg
Fri,May 13,2022
It has been sad to see the beautiful Stone Building,which is in my neighborhood in East Lexington, lie unused for
so many years. I am excited that we have an opportunity to create a new community resource there. The nature of
how we represent our history is that it must constantly change based on new understandings of the meaning of the
past. This applies to Lexington in that our public spaces are largely focused on the Revolutionary War and life of
colonialists while underplaying other eras and perspectives.As a school child I only learned the cartoon version of
the lives of indigenous people and the country's history of enslavement.A space to focus on the diversity of
people who have lived here and the generations of struggle for fair treatment would be a welcome broadening of
perspective. "Lyceum" is an old-fashioned word but can have a 21st century meaning if the Stone Building is
envisioned as a venue for encouraging serious conversations about our past and our present.
Barbara Katzenberg
Town Meeting Member,Precinct 2
Laurel Cooley
May 13,2022
I wholly endorse the Stone Building Feasibility Reuse Committee Vision outlined below. Beyond the program and
event format, I believe this envisioned building reuse will nurture and sustain community connectivity and critical
listening capability toward building civil engagement and discussion. Thank you for the invitation to comment.
Laurel Cooley
Masha Traber
Fri,May 13,2022
Dear Committee,
Thank you for your hard work. I have loved this building since I used it as a library 34 years ago,
when we first moved to East Lexington. In the intervening years, I have gone fairly deep into some
of Lexington's history, and feel that our side of Lexington has been neglected, along with the history of many of
the people who moved here. In the "great debate", I have been somewhat jealous of
Concord's 19th century history,which involves several of the issues that you list in#2.And 1 do not necessarily
think that the interpretation and 19th century history need totally exclude neighbors coming together for lectures
or study somewhere in the building. We need to highlight some of
Lexington's non-military,non-revolutionary history as well.
Thank you so much!
Masha Traber
Jeri Zeder
May 13,2022
Subject: RE: Requesting letter of support for Stone Building Reuse Committee Vision
Thank you! I hope that the Committee's report will offer some innovative and creative ideas for funding and for
operating the Stone Building's reuse, as I believe that money,time, and management are the key barriers to
making anything happen.
Jeri
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MARGARET MICHOLET
Fri,May 13,6:55 AM
Dear Members of the Stone Building Reuse Committee,
Thank you for contacting me. I will definitely send a letter of support.
I attended every meeting except,because of illness,the last one. Frankly, I was dismayed to see that the exhibit
description included a long list of topics on 19th century reform movements. While 1 support this, l was under the
impression that we would have a permanent exhibit on African American citizens in Lexington, especially
focused on the experience of African Americans during the American Revolution,that we would do this so that
the whole historical record would be available for visitors from near and far to see and understand.
What happened to this idea?
Sincerely, Margaret Micholet
Margaret Micholet
Fri,May 13, 12:22 PM
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing in favor of the vision of the Stone Building Reuse Committee as specified below:
Stone Building Feasibility Reuse Committee Vision for future of Stone Building:
1. "21st Century"Lyceum programming
a. Give people an opportunity to participate in conversation and debate,hear speakers, attend
performances,while prioritizing social justice,intercultural relations, and education
2. Historical exhibits (primarily two-dimensional) and related programs
a. Interpret the building's 19th-century origins as well as its social and political context(Lyceum, social
reform movements, slavery, abolition,women's rights,immigration, etc.) and the relationship of these
histories to present-day issues
b. Other forms of interpretation such as an online tour,neighborhood walking tour, children's resources,
might be included
c. Historical interpretation should inspire curiosity and deep understanding of complex issues
3. Meeting spaces, including an inclusive, comfortable, casual,public lounge (for all)to come together
with friends and neighbors of all ages
This committee has worked tirelessly to gather and distill ideas and suggestions from a significant number of
people, all passionate in their commitment for the best use of the building. I watched the process of reporting on
their progress with every successive meeting. I believe the final product is a valuable articulation of our
community's hopes for the best use of this historic property.
Sincerely, Margaret Micholet
Norma Floyd
Fri,May 13,2022
Cary Library to whom it may concern
Re: Stone Building Feasibility Reuse Committee Vision for future of Stone Building:
1. Offer"21st Century"updated and relevant Lyceum programming in accordance with Ms. Stone's legacy
honoring Lexington.
a.As at the Lexington Depot, draw residents to participate in conversation and debate,
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hear presentations, attend performances,with a special ongoing emphasis on prioritizing social
justice,intergenerational connection with education on community healing of a history of Lexington racism from
Colonial times. The John Birch Society has disappeared from the Lexington phone book,but only very recently
has Lexington begun to tell the true story of slavery in Lexington, and racism is now spoken of clearly which
offers opportunity for education and true healing.
b. There is real work to be done in Town developing and improving intergenerational friendships. Post-Covid,too
many older people in Lexington are disconnected,isolated, and need a place to gather for conversation with
ambience to augment the austerity of the Community Center.Programming can be geared in coordination with
Cary Library and the Community Center and LexPress.
2. Develop interesting Historical exhibits and related programs on Thoreau, Emerson et al. a. Bring back the sign
which has disappeared explaining the important Abolitionist and Transcendentalist history of Lexington.
Emphasize instead of`disappearing'the *nationally important* social and political context(Abolition,Women's
issues,Transcendentalism) of the Lyceum movement and buildup to the Civil War and other social reforms.
Educate visitors on the relationship of these histories to present-day issues.
b. Interpret the building's 19th-century architectural style and this building's status on the National Register of
Historic Places.
3. Design at least the first floor of this building also as a drop-in inclusive, comfortable, casual,public lounge to
come together with friends and neighbors of all ages,to develop and enhance intergenerational community
outside of school in Lexington.
Thank you for your consideration of the importance of the Stone Building to Lexington and National history.
Sincerely,
Mr. and Mrs. H. Christian Floyd
Sarah Francis
Sat,May 14,2022
To the Committee:
Growing up the East Branch of the Lexington Public Library was a home away from home for me. Living just a
short walk away,the children's room was a delight and the corners of the library were an amazing place to learn.
It's been shameful that such a space has been sitting vacant for so long. Especially in an affluent area! Honestly
I'm not married to any of the solutions for reuse proposed by the committee,l am just passionate about ANY USE
of this long vacant building in my community.
Shame on Lexington for letting it sit vacant for so long.
In exasperation, Sarah Francis
Vangie Puopolo
Sun,May 15, 1:39 PM
Sorry Stone Building Reuse Committee,
I do not agree with any of your ideas. The Library offers space for debate, speaker etc. They also have space for
exhibits. I have attended exhibits there.
The Senior Center can also be used for any of the above.
The Stone Building is an eye sore and not worth the money it would take to restore it.
Let the people that want to reuse it foot the billl.Ask them how much they are willing to spend. Sorry,no support
from me.
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Janel Showalter
Sun,May 15,2022
Dear Stone Building Feasibility and Re-use Committee,
I have followed your efforts for many months and appreciate the commitment each of you have given to this effort
and to the process of developing recommendations that would bring the greatest benefit to the Town,its residents,
and the surrounding community.
As you know,the Stone Building,while it was in use,played an important role in East Lexington and in the
social,political, and religious history of the Town. It is important to save and share this history,for its unique
importance but also because it provides a way for Lexington to broaden and complement its more well-known
historical narrative. But more than as just a place to tell history, it has the chance, if your recommendations are
accepted,to once again become a dynamic part of the community.
1 fully support the idea of returning the building to its original use as a Lyceum. What a unique opportunity this is.
While many towns have established Lyceums in recent years, few have the opportunity to do so in a building
intended for that use.And what a wonderful way to connect our present to our past and to demonstrate that the
need for education and discourse about serious, sometimes tough issues is one that never goes away.
I also appreciate and fully support your recommendation to open the building up to community groups and
residents as a meeting space.A number of organizations,including LPS,have already expressed such an interest
and having the space in constant use will ensure it is the "living" space that many in Lexington desire.
Before these uses can occur,however,the building must be saved and someone must spearhead efforts to raise
funds for displays and programming, coordinate this programming, and work with the many community groups
who are already interested in how they might use and support the building. Tour recommendations to renovate and
hire a coordinator are vital to this effort.
I believe the path this Committee is recommending is a real tribute to the building's creator, Eli Robbins, and to
his granddaughter,Ellen Stone,because they speak so well to the issues about which they were both clearly
committed. 1 hope the Town will act quickly upon the recommendations of the Committee and ensure this special
place can continue to play a vital role in the community for generations to come.
Thank you,
Janel Showalter
Laura Rosen
May 15,2022
I support the vision for the use of the Stone Building as outlined below. This vision for the future both honors the
building's storied history and brings back an important forum for community exchange,which is ever more
critically needed in our divided nation. Thank you for your work on this Committee.
Regards,
Laura Rosen, MD, PhD
VP&Head,Neuroscience Translational Medicine,Takeda
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Stephen Perkins
May 15,2022
I want to express my support for the vision for the Stone Building put forth by the Committee.
1 am particularly supportive of the first two elements of the vision -the Lyceum programming and the Historical
exhibits. This is a wonderful opportunity to bring life to an important part of Lexington's history. I encourage the
Trustees of Cary Library to add their support to the Committee's vision.
Stephen Perkins
Melanie Thompson
May 15,2022
To: The Trustees of Cary Library and
Stone Building Reuse Feasibility Committee
Re: Stone Building
Hello everyone,
I'm writing to extend my strong support of a full renovation and reconceptualizing of the Stone Building into a
21st Century Lyceum which would bring us back full circle to the building's origins. The issues discussed in the
1700's seem just as relevant today, as we have sadly seen from the horrible events that took place yesterday in
Buffalo NY.
I believe we need to spread the word about the devastating impacts racism and supremacy have on our society,
and a Lyceum would be a wonderful gathering place for the members of the Lexington community,tourists and
others to enjoy and learn about our past. The town of Lexington has played a leadership role in our country since
the very early days of our founding, and 1 think its strong tradition of racial justice, abolition, slavery,women's
issues, etc. should continue as a focus of the uniqueness of our area and of the building. The full renovation of the
Stone Building museum,which as many agree is a National treasure, should be a part of the continuing history of
our community.
Again, I strongly support the restoration of the Stone Building, Robbins Hall Museum of Slavery and Abolition,
as a 21st century Lyceum prioritizing DEI enrichment and historical programs, lectures and an active community
space for all to learn from and enjoy.
Thank you everyone for all of your work and focus on this important project.
Lisa Harrington
May 15,2022
Good morning,
I have been a resident of east Lexington for over 20 years raising my family. When the stone building on Mass
Ave was known as the East Lexington Library my family made use of the many resources. And were dismayed
when the flooding shut it down. It remained a mystery why it was not used for years, remaining vacant. That's
why I am writing. I am grateful for the time and thoughtfulness that went into the ideas in the proposal put forth
by the The Stone Building Feasibility Reuse Committee and fully support it. The uses put forth would benefit the
immediate community,the town of Lexington and beyond. Thank you for considering.
Regards,
Lisa Harrington
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Ken &Anita Shine
May 15,2022
Dear Stone Building Feasibility Reuse Committee:
Thank you for the work you have done to ensure the preservation of this wonderful historical building.
Out of the three main options presented, all of which would benefit our community,we think the option that
would have the most value to our community would be the gathering space option.
It is tempting to continue the Stone building's historical role as primarily a lyceum. However,there are numerous
other venues in town that fulfill that role. As a result,the Stone building would be under-utilized. Such
under-utilization would likely again lead to neglect.
The historical exhibit space option is also attractive. However, since it is removed from the main historical
attractions in town,it would get ignored.
Therefore,the best option is the meeting space option. The extensive ad-hoc use of common spaces in Cary
Library shows that such spaces are popular. East Lexington would benefit from having such space locally.
In addition,we do support reserving some space for historical exhibits,highlighting the important issues that the
building's events have promoted. The building would benefit from providing access from the bike path. Public
rest rooms could be provided along with requests for donations from the rest room users.
Thank you again for your work on this important project.
Anita Shine
Kenneth Shine -Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member
Susan &Brian Cutler
May 15,2022
1 support the vision for the use of the Stone Building as outlined below. I am particularly pleased that the vision
is a flexible one that supports many uses,including lectures,the arts, and reading,while also supporting social
justice issues. Bravo to the committee for arriving at such a great vision.
Susan and Brian
Renee Steinbrecher
May 15,2022
1 support the vision for the use of the Stone Building as outlined below.
Renee
Kathleen Dalton
May 15,2022
To the Select Board and the Cary Library Trustees:
I am a Lexington resident who strongly supports the SBFRC proposal to save the Stone Building.
My reasons are these:
1) Lexington defines itself as a cradle of American liberty, and it is time to recognize in Lexington's
self-presentation the unfinished work left by the American Revolution. The Robbins family who built the Stone
Building believed that when the Declaration of Independence stated that"All Men are Created Equal" the work of
making those noble Enlightenment-era ideals a reality required the abolition of slavery. Lexington has long been
the steward of a historic home and lyceum building where key figures in the Transcendentalist movement spoke,
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and it is time to renovate the building and make its history a part of Lexington's story that it tells school children
and tourists. Lexington is a place where brave abolitionists risked bodily harm to speak out against racial injustice.
2)The SBFRC process moved toward a Lexington Lyceum concept over its long deliberations because of a desire
to make Lexington a place where current issues were debated and faced.
3) Lexington has done its needs assessment and several groups in town could make good use of the Lexington
Lyceum.When you ask Lexingtonians what they want in the Stone Building,the schools tell us that they need
field trip space to learn about slavery,the Robbins family, abolitionism, and the Civil War and to do teacher
professional development meetings to support them in keeping up-to-date and in working together. The
Recreation department and Lexington Historical Society could also use the space, and certainly the Liberty Ride
could bring 60 people at a time to the Emerson Lyceum Hall to learn about the history of Lexington in the
nineteenth century. Others want a reading room to learn about history or to have a quiet place to read, and others
want to work with Lex Media to do oral histories of their journey to Lexington and their Lexington lives.
4)As I have worked to let people in affinity groups around Lexington know about our hope that the Lexington
Lyceum will be up and running by 2025, every group has been enthusiastic about working together on shared
programming about common interests--common experiences as immigrants, common hopes for the community,
common ideas about solving problems together. The SBFRC has worked hard to listen to a variety of voices to
assess community interests and needs. Their truly democratic process has led them to make these
recommendations which will, I believe,make a huge contribution to the cultural capital and community spirit of
the Town of Lexington.
I have worked with the SBFRC as a leader of the Stone Building Advocates to encourage the SBFRC to focus on
race relations, Black history, abolitionism, and the Robbins family circle.As a historian I have been working to
find out more about the community that existed within the Robbins Hall/Stone Building--mostly
Transcendentalists and reformers. I admire and support their proposal and see that they have very broad support
in the community. I am willing to work with the SBFRC and others to help with historical interpretation,research
and writing for exhibits and tours, and fundraising to make the building in the long run financially viable.
I hope you will vote to move this project forward.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Dalton, Stone Building Advocates
Public History Consultant
Research Affiliate, Charles Warren Center,Harvard University
Emerita,Phillips Academy, Department of History and Social Science
Stone Building Advocates: Salvador Jaramillo, Melanie Thompson, Rosemary Trowbridge,E.Anthony Rotundo,
Eileen Zalisk, Sabine Clark, Janel Showalter
Sarah Felton
May 16,2022
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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To Whom it May Concern.
1 fully support the vision outlined below.
As an architect I consider the Stone building one of the most important representations of the Greek revival period
in Lexington.As a resident of Lexington I consider the unique history of the Stone building significant for our
town and for the country as a whole.We have an opportunity to breathe new life into this building and continue
the legacy of creating spaces that support freedom, equity, and inclusion.
Sincerely,
Sarah Felton
Jessie Steigerwald,President,LexSeeHer,Inc.
Leslie Masson,Treasurer,LexSeeHer,Inc.
Betty Gan,Assistant Treasurer,LexSeeHer,Inc.
May 16,2022
LexSeeHer, Inc.has a mission to make women visible in our community. We ask the town's decision-makers to
consider the untold stories of Lexington residents, including women and Black residents, as well as Indigenous
and other under-represented groups, as you evaluate the future use of the Stone Building. We support a mixed use
that would offer a contemporary version of the original Lyceum and dedicated space to historic exhibitions that
could present untold stories about our community.
Women have played a role in almost every family, every household, and every building in the town -
though we have few examples where that is visible. The Ellen Stone building is an important place, and any new
use should make sure to tell her story.
Ellen Adelia Stone Jr. had an interesting life,but no children to carry on her name or legacy. Ellen
graduated from Boston University Law School in 1889,just seven years after the first woman in Massachusetts
was allowed to become a lawyer.At the time, Ellen was indeed a bold woman of Lexington. She also donated
significant textiles to the Museum of Fine Arts. These works allow us to better understand history, and her
forethought should be recognized.
LexSeeHer has experienced the thirst in our community to learn more about the untold stories of
Lexington's women. First,there has been an outpouring of support for a new women's monument. Second,when
LexSeeHer partnered with LexArt in February to bring forward some of the untold stories of Black women,many
people visited the exhibit and attended the coordinated Zoom events. The installation"Free And Not A Slave: The
Legacy of Margaret Tulip"drew positive feedback from community members who wanted to learn more.
In the case of the Stone Building,where a Lyceum program added great cultural and intellectual richness
to the lives of Lexingtomans, Eli and his daughters collaborated in drawing noteworthy speakers to town. Mary
Keenan's book, In Haste, Julia, documents the fact that many of the famous men who came to speak at the
Lyceum were invited by Eli's daughter Julia Robbins. She also helped arrange logistics for their visits.All social
movements rely on relationships between people across communities. It would be helpful if exhibits in the new
Stone Building could help people reflect on this aspect of history.We can look at who visited,but also explore
why they were drawn to accept an invitation from Julia to come and speak in Lexington.
Our 2022 community shares some similar values with those who attended the Lyceum lectures. In its
heyday the Lyceum helped residents think about temperance, abolition,women's suffrage and other social justice
pursuits.While many residents can click a button on a laptop to think about social justice,nothing can replace the
act of gathering together in person to experience a live lecture. The conversations on the way into and out of a
lecture are where people establish the relationships and friendships that make it possible to undertake work.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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With an incredibly rich history, Lexington has benefitted from generations of volunteers working to
preserve and portray community life in the 1775 period. But,we are increasingly aware of the richness of the 19th
century. Using the Stone Building as a place where historical exhibits may be displayed will support residents and
visitors gaining a better understanding of the threads that connect us from the 1700s through to the present. Much
of America's history has been taught in an incomplete manner.We owe it to each other, and to future generations,
to create space to tell these stories.
LexSeeHer has requested approval for a new monument on the Visitors Center lawn.As designed by
Meredith Bergmann,the monument portrays women's contributions across the sweep of history.While the
monument is weighted to include women from the 18th century on the land that was once Ruth Buckman's
homestead,it does recognize some women from the 1800s. Ellen Adelia Stone,Jr. is depicted standing beside her
aunt Julia Robbins Barrett. The LexSeeHer monument will help people to make the connection between the men
who fought on the Lexington Commons and their granddaughters who carried on the pursuit of freedom and
liberty. The monument also includes other women who were contemporaries of Ellen and Julia,whose stories are
waiting to be told,including Mary Elizabeth Miles Bibb,the first Black woman to graduate from the Normal
School.
If the Stone Building becomes a place for sharing,learning, speakers, and exhibits,we will all benefit.We
have appreciated the brainstorming that has gone into developing meaningful community uses for the Stone
Building, and hope our input is helpful.
Sincerely, Jessie Steigerwald, President, LexSeeHer, Inc. Leslie Masson,Treasurer,LexSeeHer, Inc. Betty Gau,
Assistant Treasurer,LexSeeHer, Inc.
Melanie Lin/Hua Wang
May 16, 2022
Dear Stone Building Feasibilty/Re-use Committee„
We strongly support the proposal for the renovation and future programming of the Stone Building
proposed by the S.B.F.R.C.
We like the idea of the Lyceum, the interesting historical exhibits and meeting spaces, and we look
forward to the opportunities the new Lexington Lyceum can provide for telling immigrant stories and
learning about each other as we build an even better Lexington community.
Thanks very much for your consideration.
Best regards,
Melanie Lin
Hua Wang
Presidents of Chinese American Association of Lexington (CARL)
Victoria Buckley, Chair Commision on Disability
May 17,2022
RE: Stone Building
Dear Stone Building Feasibility/Re-use Committee,
At the meeting held on May 17, 2022,the Commission on Disability voted unanimously to support the vision of
the Stone Building Feasibility Reuse Committee (SBFRC)for the future of the Stone Building.We understand
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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that this is not the design of the project but is instead the vision. This will be discussed further at the meeting of
the Cary Library Trustees
on May 18 and the Select Board meeting on May 23.
The Commission wishes to see full accessibility to the building for both floors as well as programmatic access to
all future events held there. We understand that the physical access issues will be addressed more in the design
phase,but the programmatic access is important in the vision phase. We fully support the uses proposed by the
SBFRC including lyceum programming,historical exhibits,meeting spaces and interpretations of the building's
19th-century origins of social reform as related to present-day issues.
The Commission on Disability fully approves of the vision. Please add this letter of support to your presentations
on May 18 and May 23.
Sincerely,Victoria Buckley
Victoria Buckley
Chair, Commission on Disability
Sabine Clark
July 9,2021
The renovation of the Stone Building provides an opportunity to honor the untold history of the building and East
Lexington. The building has a strong connection to the abolitionist movement, and East Lexington was home to a
number of Black families in the 19th century. For that reason, I strongly support the proposals to make the
building a living history museum whose primary purpose is to illuminate the lives of early Black residents as well
as to bring greater awareness and understanding of current issues of racial justice.
1 propose naming the building the "Burdoo-Robbins Center for Living History."This name communicates
the building's focus,pays tribute to significant figures in local history, and conveys the connection to the interests
of today's residents and visitors.
While the Center's primary identity is a Black history museum and racial justice center,this is compatible
with many of the uses suggested in the concept document, as shown in the accompanying diagram. It strikes me
that many of the ideas proposed by local residents overlap and could be strengthened by bringing them under the
umbrella of the Burdoo-Robbins Center.
The building would host several types of exhibits and programs:
A permanent exhibit on Lexington Black history,including local Black families and the role of the building in the
abolitionist movement
A Racial Justice Center to explore and deepen understanding of current issues of diversity and inclusion.
It would host a Black business incubator and sponsor programs on current issues of racial, social, and
environmental justice
A Cross-Cultural Exchange with a 21st century Lyceum. This would bring alive the shared history and
foster an understanding among different local cultural groups. The cross-cultural theme can drive programming
via lectures,performing arts, and social gathering.
Report of the Stone Building Feasibility/Re-Use Committee 2022 - May 19, 2022
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APPENDIX 17
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Decision Making Outline
for the
Use of the Ellen Stone Building
Memo to the Cary Library Board of Trustees
Joe Pato, 10 May 2022
Context
The Ellen Stone Building was sold to the Town of Lexington in 1892 for a nominal fee of$2000 and a set of deed restrictions
governing the use of the building.The building most recently operated as the East Lexington Branch Library until 2007 when declining
patronage and water damage from a pipe failure led to the closure of the branch library.
The Select Board has convened an ad-hoc committee to investigate and prepare a feasibility study on possible re-uses of the historic
Stone Building. Some confusion has arisen as to the decision-making process for approving and implementing a recommend use.
This memo outlines the primary roles and responsibilities for the decision makers involved in the process.
Cary Library Board of Trustees
The primary role of the Library Board of Trustees, regarding the Ellen Stone Building, is to determine that the use for the building is
consistent with the terms of the deed for the building.
In accordance with the provision of the gift of Maria Cary establishing a public library in Lexington,the Board of Library Trustees
consists of"the Selectmen, and the School Committee of the Town for the time being and the settled ministers of the place."
The Board of Library Trustees oversees the financial affairs,trust funds,fundraising activities and sets the policy for the operation of
the Library. Further details can be found in the Board of Trustees Bylaws.
The Library Trustees are also named in the deed for the Ellen Stone Building.The deed stipulates that the property is to be held by
the Town in perpetuity, and to be"held and maintained under the direction and management of the Trustees of Cary Library."The
deed also specifies the sorts of uses to which the property may be put.Town Counsel advises that uses outlined in the restrictions
may be combined and that choosing a use from the seventh category should be accompanied by a discussion and rationale for why
the use is appropriate and consistent with the Library's mission.
Select Board and Town Manager
The Town Manager has jurisdiction over the maintenance, repair, rental, and use of all town property, except schools and libraries.
Insofar as the Ellen Stone Building is not used as a branch library,the Town Manager and Select Board will determine how to lease
the property and how to implement any program approved by the Library Board of Trustees—including entering into an agreement
with a third party to deliver the approved program.
Town Meeting
Should funding be required for capital improvements or executing a program in the facility,Town Meeting must appropriate the funds
from the Town budget.As a historic building,funds from the Community Preservation Fund may be available for preserving the
building if that funding is recommended by the Community Preservation Committee.
Should the Town seek to sell the property, it can only do so with the authorization of Town Meeting.
Other Parties
Other parties such as charitable organizations or government funding agencies may be sources of grants to fund capital or operating
expenses for programs to be operated in the Ellen Stone Building. In many cases,these funds may be used without appropriation by
Town Meeting.
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Summary
The Library Board of Trustees is responsible for approving what is operating in the Ellen Stone Building.The Town Manager and
Select Board are responsible for maintaining the building and for operating or contracting with third parties for an approved
program in the building.Town Meeting is responsible for appropriating funds or for ongoing programs and capital expenses or
authorizing the sale of the property.
Use Restrictions from the Deed:
First, For a branch depository for the circulation and exchange of books of the Cary Library.
Second, For a public reading room.
Third, For a public art museum.
Fourth, For a meeting place for such classes(not schools)in special departments of literature, art and science as may be formed in
East Lexington.
Fifth, For such public lectures as may be given under the auspices of, or authorized by said Trustees.
Sixth, For a meeting place for the youth and children of East Lexington,for games and social diversions under the supervision of said
Trustees.
Seventh,And for such other purposes as in the judgment of said Trustees shall not be inconsistent with the realization of the main
objects of the said Cary Library,said Trustees being hereby authorized and empowered to determine at any future time whether
any proposed use is in conformity with such objects.
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