HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-03-BOS-min
71-97
Selectmen’s Meeting
March 8, 2017
A meeting of the Board of Selectmen was called to order at 7:02 p.m. on Wednesday, March 8,
2017 in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Chairman Barry, Mr.
Kelley, Mr. Pato, Ms. Ciccolo and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente, Town
Manager and Ms. Siebert, Recording Secretary.
Selectman Concerns
Mr. Kelley reported that he and Ms. Barry had attended a meeting with members of the Tourism
Committee and Town staff to discuss how to move forward with designs for a new Visitors
Center. Mr. Kelley is optimistic that enough progress will be made for a project proposal to be
ready for presentation in the fall.
Mr. Lucente, newly elected to the Board, thanked the citizens of Lexington for their support and
said he looks forward to working with Town staff, committee and boards, and his new
colleagues.
Ms. Barry said Selectmen liaison assignments and future BOS meeting dates will be reviewed at
the upcoming Selectmen’s meeting on March 13.
Ms. Barry indicated that Planning Board Chair Richard Canale has asked the Board to appoint a
Selectmen to co-present Comprehensive Plan Article 7 to Town Meeting. Ms. Ciccolo agreed to
play that role.
Ms. Barry, on behalf of the Board of Selectmen, acknowledged custodian Chris Gaffron for his
6-year service to the Town of Lexington and wished him well in his new job.
ATM 2017 Warrant Article Update—Articles 32, 39, 46 (Citizen Article)
Ethan Handwerker, 17 Pine Knoll Road, the sponsor of the articles to be presented to Town
Meeting, updated the Board.
Article 32—Establish Cannabis Committee
Mr. Handwerker proposed the establishment of an ad hoc advisory committee so there is an
official process to respond to the 2016 statewide passage of adult-use of cannabis. Mr.
Handwerker recommended that representatives from other Town committee and boards populate
the Cannabis Committee. One of the purposes of the committee would be to provide
transparency and forthright engagement in what can be considered a difficult subject.
Article 39—Amend General Bylaws—Right to Farm
Mr. Handwerker stated this article would establish a process by which the Town will provide
information to residents about existing State laws pertaining to agriculture. The article does not,
however, propose additional benefits or protections beyond those explicit in current law.
71-98
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 8, 2017
Article 46—Amend Zoning Bylaw—Chapter 135 Medical Marijuana
This is a 6-part zoning article that would require a 2/3 vote in order to pass. For the first three
amendments, Mr. Handwerker said he is proposing three definitions—marijuana distribution
center, medical marijuana processing center, medical marijuana cultivation center— to replace
two definitions currently in the bylaw that describe medical marijuana treatment centers and
medical marijuana distribution center. The second three amendments are to associated zoning
permitted use tables so that facilities will be sited in appropriate parts of the community.
Medical marijuana distribution centers –RMDs—are non-profit and would require State
licensure from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Mr. Handwerker said Article 46
would also limit the number of RMDs in Lexington to two rather than the three that would be
permitted under State law.
Ms. Barry asked Mr. Handwerker to provide proposed RMD zoning maps to the Board before
Town Meeting. Mr. Handwerker said he would do so.
Mr. Pato asked Mr. Handwerker to provide a list of other communities similar to Lexington that
have adopted Right to Farm bylaws. Mr. Handwerker agreed to provide such a list.
Mr. Lucente asked Mr. Handwerker to also provide a list enumerating other communities that
have formed a Cannabis Committee, including the scope of the committees’ charges. Mr.
Handwerker noted the language of Article 32 was modeled after other communities’ cannabis
committees.
Ms. Barry asked Mr. Valente to check to see if the Board of Health and Planning Board plan to
provide opinions on these articles prior to Town Meeting and if so, the Selectmen would like to
hear from them before adopting positions.
Update—Hartwell Avenue/McGuire Road Intersection Project
Mr. Cannon, Assistant Town Engineer, reported that the DPW met with Conservation regarding
proximity of the intersection to wetlands. The design material has not changed since it was first
th
presented at the January 9 BOS meeting. Mr. Cannon asked the Board for direction as to which
of the two designs, roundabout or light controlled (both with variations), to pursue in light of
monetary cost and wetland impact.
Mr. Cannon recalled the Board indicated on January 9 that the roundabout design was preferred
if the cost and wetland impact differentials were not significant. Mr. Cannon said that from an
engineering standpoint, the DPW does not have a preference between the proposed designs.
David Kanter, Capital Expenditures, asked if the supplemental appropriation for $2.185M under
Article 10L for the construction intersection is sufficient for the chosen design. Mr. Valente
replied that now that the Board has reached consensus, his office will work with the DPW to
hone the estimate, including contingencies.
71-99
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 8, 2017
Mr. Kanter asked how the signals at the intersection will interact with the signals at the bike
path. Mr. Cannon said the design is still in the early stages but there will most likely be
coordination between the two. The bike path light would act similarly to a pedestrian crossing,
timed with the traffic signal.
Mr. Kanter asked how the multi-use path down Hartwell will interact with the intersection
project. Mr. Cannon said the path and the intersection will be integrated.
The Board expressed support of signalized option #3 out of the designs that were presented.
Update on Exempt Debt Financing Model
Ms. Ciccolo was recused due to matters relating to 20 Pelham Road.
Mr. Valente and Ms. Kosnoff, Assistant Town Manager for Finance, presented changes to the
excluded debt financing model for upcoming Capital projects: Hastings School, Lexington
Children’s Place, purchases of 20 Pelham Road and 173 Bedford Street and the fire station
renovations including modifications to the interim swing space. The LHS HVAC project has
been dropped since the last update and the purchase price for the Pelham property has been
added, increasing the anticipated exempt debt total from $93,950,000 to $103,936,000 (or by
about 10%).
The budget the Selectmen have recommended to Town Meeting would increase the Capital
Stabilization Fund by $7.8M which can be used to mitigate debt impact to the taxpayers.
Based on the supposition that close to $8M will be added to the fund, Ms. Kosnoff has revised
the ten-year the impact analysis: Based on a median home value of $831,000 and use of the
Capital Stabilization Fund, taxpayer impact would range from $321 to $451 or 2.1% to 3.4%
annually in the ten-year period from FY18 to FY26.
The yearly drawdown from the $28,160,585 Capital Stabilization Fund between FY18 and FY23
for Exempted Debt mitigation is projected to be as low as $2,200,000 in FY23 and as high as
$6,400,000 in FY20.
Mr. Kelley asked about revenues for the Capital Stabilization fund and how should the future
Police Station project be positioned within the Capital investment landscape?
Mr. Valente said two preliminary designs for the Police Station will be presented to the
Selectmen at a future meeting by the project’s architects. The cost of a new station has been
estimated at $19M which has been built into the debt model and taxpayer mitigation figures,
even though the project will not be voted for a few years. As for the question Mr. Kelley raised
about where the money for the Capital Stabilization Fund has come from, Mr. Valente said there
are a number of sources. First, the Town came out of the last recession in a good position, with
many of the “elastic revenues” (motor vehicle excise taxes, New Growth construction, building
permits, etc.) stronger than expected. Additionally, this has been a period of low inflation. Third,
pressures on the Operating Budget from either personnel or expenses have been eased because,
71-100
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 8, 2017
at the Selectmen’s direction, the Town has intentionally limited Operating Budget growth by
adding only a limited number of Project Improvement Requests (PIRs) beyond maintenance of
service budget bases. This action has been taken with full understanding of the number of large
Capital projects on the horizon. Last, the Town’s enrollment in the State’s GIC insurance group
has held employee health insurance costs down to a lower level than they would have otherwise
been. Increases in cost have not been negligible but they have been far less than if the Town had
not joined the GIC.
Mr. Valente and Ms. Kosnoff believe it is reasonable to expect the Town will continue to be able
to put funds into the Capital Stabilization Fund.
Mr. Pato asked if the Town should search for alternate funding sources for some projects, like
the community space in the Pelham property to be shared with LCP.
Ms. Barry asked if the revised debt model has been provided to Capital Expenditures and
Appropriations. Mr. Valente said the numbers will be re-checked and then passed on to these
committees. He asked for the Board’s approval to present the figures to the TMMA on March 16
and also to Special Town Meeting. The Selectmen agreed the figures could be presented.
David Kanter, Capital Expenditures Committee, noted there is nothing about a new high school
included in the debt model. He added that he believes the amount of funding dedicated to OPEB
runs contrary to the need to address Capital projects.
Dawn McKenna, Chair of the Tourism Committee, asked if any of the modeling has included a
new Visitors Center. Mr. Valente said it has not.
Mr. Valente said the within levy mitigation Capital Stabilization Fund drawdown is as
challenging as the excluded debt drawdown. If more projects are added to either within levy or
excluded debt, more resources from the mitigation fund will need to be used. Or, alternatively,
the more money that’s used to fund projects directly, the less that will be available to replenish
the Fund.
Ms. Kosnoff said all projects have been modeled using a 30-year debt window.
Article Positions & Presenters ATM 2017 & STM 2017-1
Potential Consent Agenda Articles
This year, there are at least four articles proposed to be bundled into a single Consent Agenda
because they are considered routine and not in need of deeper discussion. Those articles are:
Article 6: Appropriation for Senior Service Program; Article 11: Appropriation for Recreational
Capital Projects; Article 23: Rescind Prior Bond Authorizations; and Article 26: Appropriation
from Debt Service Stabilization Fund. The Capital Expenditures Committee has also proposed
several more articles to be included.
Mr. Pato suggested adding Article 13: Appropriation for Water System Improvements and
Article 14: Appropriation for Wastewater System Improvements, saying these articles or their
71-101
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 8, 2017
equivalents are present routinely, on a yearly basis. Mr. Valente noted these two articles are also
on the CEC’s list. The other Board members agreed to support inclusion of Articles 13 and 14.
Ms. Barry asked whether Article 19—Getting to Net Zero—should be included since it is the
second of three identical $40,000 appropriations. The other Selectmen, after discussion,
supported inclusion of Article 19 in the Consent Agenda.
David Kanter, Capital Expenditures Committee, asked if the Board would entertain a short
discussion of the other articles recommended by CEC for inclusion:
Special Town Meeting Articles 5 and Annual Town Meeting Article 22 are administrative and
identical. Ms. Barry noted if STM Article 5 was put on a Consent Agenda, it would be the
only article. The proposal regarding Article 5 was therefore dropped.
Article 10 o & p—CPA debt and administrative budget— are obligatory and need no
discussion.
Article 12v—Appropriation for Municipal Capital Projects and Equipment—Transportation
Mitigation—is a fixed program that comes up every year.
Article 16 a, c, and f are all routine facilities maintenance articles with fixed amounts.
Articles 25—Stabilization Fund will be indefinitely postponed so it could be included in
Consent.
Article 28—Amend FY17 Operating could be included if indefinitely postponed.
Article 29—Appropriate for Authorized Capital Improvements
The Board of Selectmen supported all CEC suggestions with the exception of Articles 28 and
29.
Dawn McKenna, Precinct 6 Town Meeting member, suggested including Article 30—Adjust
Retirement COLA Base for Retirees. Mr. Pato said he is still waiting for further information on
Article 30 because the proposed increase of the COLA threshold poses a non-trivial impact to the
Town budget. He therefore does not support including Article 30.
Because Ms. Barry is recused on Article 30, Ms. Ciccolo stepped in to chair the discussion. She
noted that the Board does not yet have a sense of its position and would therefore prefer to
include Article 30 for regular consideration.
Ms. Barry went through the Special and Annual Town Meeting articles one by one to record
members’ votes:
STM Article 2: Appropriate Design Funds for the Fire Station: yes: 5, no: 0.
STM Article 3: Appropriate Design Funds for the Fire Station Swing Space: yes: 5, no: 0.
71-102
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 8, 2017
Ms. Barry will present Articles 2 & 3 together, as recommended by the Town Manager and
Town Moderator.
STM Article 4: Appropriate Design Funds for Lexington Children’s Place/20 Pelham Road: yes:
4, no: 0, recused: 1 (Ciccolo). Mr. Kelley will present.
STM Article 5: Appropriate Bond and Note Premiums to Pay Project Costs: yes: 5, no: 0. Mr.
Lucente will present.
Article 4: Appropriate FY18 Operating Budget: yes: 4, no: 0, wait: 1 (Lucente). Ms. Barry will
present.
Article 5: Appropriate FY18 Enterprise Funds Budgets: yes: 5, no: 0. Ms. Barry will present.
Article 6: Appropriate for Senior Services Program: yes: 5, no: 0. Mr. Kelley will present.
Article 7: Appropriate for Town Comprehensive Plan: yes: 5, no: 0. Ms. Ciccolo will present.
Article 8: Accept PEG Access and Cable-Related Funds: yes: 5, no: 0. Mr. Pato will present.
Article 9: Establish and Continue Departmental Revolving Funds and Special Revenue Fund:
yes: 4, no: 0, wait: 1 (Lucente). Mr. Lucente will present.
Article 10, FY 2018 CPA Operating and all sub-articles: yes: 0, no: 0, wait: 5.
Article 11: Appropriate for Recreational Capital Projects: yes: 5, no: 0.
Article 12: Appropriate for Municipal Capital Projects and Equipment
a)Center Streetscape: Indefinitely postponed
Mr. Kelley asked if all the sub-articles under Article 12 will be bundled into one vote or
presented separately. Mr. Valente said the items that were particularly out of the ordinary would
receive a fuller description, as has been done in previous years.
The Board elected to take positions on the Article 12 sub- articles at the next meeting.
Article 13: Appropriation for Water System Improvements: yes: 5, no: 0. Mr. Lucente will
present.
Article 14: Appropriate for Wastewater System Improvements: yes: 5, no: 0. Mr. Lucente will
present.
Article 15: Appropriate for School Capital Projects and Equipment: yes: 0, no: 0, wait: 5.
Article 16: Appropriate for Public Facilities Capital Projects: yes: 0, no: 0, wait: 5. Ms. Ciccolo
noted she would be recused from sub-item j and any other sub-item that is Pelham-related.
71-103
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 8, 2017
Article 17: Appropriate for Hastings School Replacement Design: yes: 5, no: 0. Ms. Ciccolo will
present.
Article 18: Appropriate for Visitors Center (Citizen article): yes: 0, no: 0, wait: 5.
Article 19: Appropriate for Advice and Analysis—Getting to Net Zero: yes: 4, no: 0, wait: 1
(Lucente). Mr. Pato will present.
Article 20: Accept Harbell Street: yes: 0, no: 0, wait: 5.
Article 21: Appropriate to Post Employment Insurance Liability Fund: yes: 4, no: 0, recused: 1
(Barry). Mr. Lucente will present.
Article 22: Appropriate Bonds and Note Premiums to Pay Project Costs: yes: 5, no: 0. Mr.
Lucente will present.
Article 23: Rescind Prior Borrowing Authorization: yes: 5, no: 0. Mr. Kelley will present.
Article 24: Establish and Appropriate to and from Specified Stabilization Funds: yes: 5, no: 0.
Mr. Pato will present.
Article 25: Appropriate to Stabilization Fund: yes: 5, no: 0. Ms. Ciccolo will present.
Article 26: Appropriate from Debt Stabilization Fund: yes: 5, no: 0. Mr. Kelley will present.
Article 27: Appropriate for Prior Years’ Unpaid Bills: yes: 0, no: 0, wait: 5. May be indefinitely
postponed.
Articles 28, 29, 30: yes: 0, no: 0, wait: 5. Ms. Barry will be recused from Article 30.
Article 31: Resolution to Reduce the Influence of Money in Politics (Citizen Article): yes: 3, no:
0, wait: 2 (Ciccolo, Kelley). Mr. Pato will present.
Article 32: Establish Cannabis Committee: yes: 3, no: 0, wait: 2 (Barry, Lucente). Ms. Ciccolo
will present.
Article 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39: yes: 0, no: 0, wait: 5.
Articles 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46: yes: 0, no: 0, wait: 5.
Consent Agenda
Approve One-Day Liquor License—Education Francaise of Greater Boston
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve a request for
Education Francaise of Greater Boston for a one-day alcohol license for a Gala Fundraiser to be
held at Lexington’s Depot at 13 Depot Square on April 1, 2017 from 6:45 p.m. until 12:00 a.m.
71-104
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 8, 2017
Approve One-Day Liquor License—Lexington Education Foundation
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve a request for a
one-day liquor license for the Lexington Education Foundation for a fundraiser at the Hayden
Recreation Lower Field on Worthen Road on Saturday, June 10, 2017 from 7:00 p.m. until 12:00
a.m.
Approve One-Day Liquor License—Lexington BBQ Festival
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve a request for a
one-day liquor license to serve beer, wine, and cider at the Lexington Battle Green BBQ Festival
on the Farmers’ Market Fairgrounds on May 19, 2017 from 5:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.; May 20,
2017 from 11 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. and May 21, 2017 from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Use of the Battle Green—Fife & Drum Tattoo
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve a request from
the William Diamond Junior Fife and Drum Corps for permission to hold the annual Tattoo and
Lexington Muster on the Battle Green on Friday, May 5, 2017 from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.,
including a small parade from St. Brigid’s Parish to the Battle Green beginning approximately at
6:50 p.m. Approval will be subject to working out details with Town staff.
Approve Lexington Little League Opening Day Request
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve a request from
the Lexington Little League to hold the Annual Little League Parade on Saturday, April 29, 2017
from 8:30 a.m. until approximately 11:00 a.m. as outlined in a letter dated February 27, 2017.
The Town Manager, Fire, Police, and Public Works staff have approved the plans.
Executive Session
Upon motion duly made and by roll call, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to enter Executive
Session under Exemption 3 to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining with the Fire
union and, further, to enter Executive Session under Exemption 6 to consider the purchase,
exchange, lease or value of real property, 20 Pelham Rd and to re-convene in Open Session only
to adjourn. It was declared that that an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the
bargaining and negotiating position(s) of the Town.
It was noted that Ms. Barry would be recused from the Fire contract discussion and that Ms.
Ciccolo would be recused from the 20 Pelham Rd. discussion.
Adjourn
Upon re-convening in Open Session and on motion duly made and seconded, the Board of
Selectmen voted 4-0 to adjourn at approximately 9:45p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary
71-105
Selectmen’s Meeting
March 10, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 8:00 a.m. on Friday,
March 10, 2017 in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Chairman
Barry, Mr. Kelley, Mr. Pato, Ms. Ciccolo and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente,
Town Manager, Mr. Goddard, Director Public Facilities, Police Chief Corr and Ms. Katzenback
Assistant to the Executive Clerk.
Evaluation of 173 Bedford Street and 1575 Mass. Ave for Police Station Site
Mr. McElravy, Techton Architects, presented the conceptual designs and projected costs for
three building options, included pros and cons of each, as well as the conceptual design and
projected cost for a temporary building space to take into consideration for the Police Station
site.
Option 1: Tear Down and Rebuild 1575 Massachusetts Avenue Police Facility - Probable
Project Costs: $25,397,762
Pros:
Maintains the known location of the police station and keeps the Town Center active.
Provides improved floor to floor clearance at the lower level to better accommodate
police functions.
Enhances the “green” space along Massachusetts Avenue and incorporates Hosmer house
into the green on a new foundation.
Organizes parking more efficiently and removes excess paving that encroaches on green.
Allows all police functions to be located in a structure that conforms to the current code
standard for emergency services facilities.
Connects to bike path, bus routes, and downtown vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Connects to alternative police response routes.
Central location is where all four patrol sectors meet; including Center walking beat;
routine activities and deployment will be easier to support from a central location.
Lexington center has a significant number of banks (and a few other high risk
businesses); close proximity to Cary Hall (town meetings & shows) and Town Offices
(treasurer’s office, BOS, senior management)
Better radio and fiber optic connectivity
365/24/7 access to a training / meeting room for Town Committees
Public paying tickets or inquiring at Town Offices can stop at current location; Center
businesses can walk to PD for permits and other business.
Cons:
Requires the use of a temporary facility which adds up to $5 million in additional
costs
New Police Station is not available until at least summer of 2021.
Continues parking issues on campus.
Limited future expansion potential.
Size of building may offend some people
71-106
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 10, 2017
Option 2: Salvage and add on 1575 Massachusetts Avenue Police Facility - Probable Project
Costs: $23,805,042
Pros:
Maintains the known location of the police station and keeps the Town Center active.
Reuses much of the existing police station structure and may qualify for CPA grant
funding.
May qualify for LEED credit for re-using structure.
Enhances the “green” space along Massachusetts Avenue and incorporates Hosmer house
into the green on a new foundation.
Organizes parking more efficiently and removes excess paving that encroaches on green.
Connects to bike path, bus routes, and downtown vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Connects to alternative police response routes.
Central location is where all four patrol sectors meet; including Center walking beat;
routine activities and deployment will be easier to support from a central location.
Lexington center has a significant number of banks (and a few other high risk
businesses); close proximity to Cary Hall (town meetings & shows) and Town Offices
(treasurer’s office, BOS, senior management)
Better radio and fiber optic connectivity
365/24/7 access to a training / meeting room for Town Committees
Public paying tickets or inquiring at Town Offices can stop at current location; Center
businesses can walk to PD for permits and other business.
Cons:
Requires the use of a temporary facility which adds up to $5 million in additional costs
New Police Station is not available until at least summer of 2021.
Continues parking issues on campus.
Locates some police functions in a structure that does not meet the current code standard
for emergency services facilities.
Limited future expansion potential.
Size of building may offend some people.
Option 3: New Police Facility 173 Bedford - - Probable Project Costs: $22,130,756
Pros:
Locates all police functions in a new structure that could provide additional space if
desired.
Provides adequate and segregated police and public parking for current and future needs.
New Police Facility could be available as soon as the winter of 2020/2021.
Does not require a temporary facility which could save up to $5 million.
Opportunity to replace/rebuild an EOC, computer head end.
Cons:
The site is narrow and linear which is not an optimal arrangement for a police facility,
and it limits future expansion options.
71-107
Decentralized will have adverse impact on being a “go to” community space
Parking tickets, permitting, licensing, other services no longer connected to Town
Offices/Center
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 10, 2017
A single accident; downed tree, wire, water break could cut off Bedford Street location
(intentional obstructions could be worse)
Location is in a more restricted radio signal area and we will need a tower network or
fiber optic connections to other repeater sites
Emergency operations under final approach to Hanscom airfield; also, given prevailing
westerlies, any fire plume/crash on 95 from the notorious golf course hill.
Temporary Police Facility 173 Bedford Street - Probable Project Costs: $4,959,532
Ms. Ciccolo asked Chief Corr which site best meets the Police Department’s operational needs.
Chief Corr stated that a centrally located police department location provides the best
opportunity to connect with the community.
Mr. Kelley stated he agrees with the importance of a centrally located site in order to connect
with the citizens for public safety and noted the facility should be large enough to be able to store
and protect all equipment. Mr. Kelley expressed concern that the estimates do not cover all costs.
Ms. Barry asked if the communication issue will be addressed when the Fire Department moves
to Bedford Street temporarily. Chief Corr stated the Police Department is the dispatch center for
the Fire Department. Chief Corr noted as long as the dispatch center stays at 1575 Massachusetts
Avenue there will not be any issues, if the dispatch center moves to Bedford Street, an antennae
network or fiber optic system would need to be implemented to ensure signals are not blocked.
Ms. Barry asked if renovating the existing 1575 Massachusetts Avenue site will update it to
current code standards. Mr. McElravey explained the code requirements for renovated buildings
versus brand new structures necessary to meet emergency service codes.
Ms. Barry asked if the allocated prisoner space is suffice as designed in the temporary use of the
Bedford Street building. Chief Corr explained the space is adequate to accommodate short term
detention and that in the event long term detention is required, the prisoner would have to be
taken to another facility.
Mr. Pato asked if onsite renewables, such as rooftop solar, have been taken into consideration for
all site options. Mr. McElravy provided an overview of the evaluation of solar energy for both
173 Bedford Street and 1575 Massachusetts Avenue.
Mr. Adams (Historic District Committee) expressed there is general concern for sufficient
parking.
Ms. Barry asked if the Board is ready to take a position on this project. The Board agreed
additional information is needed in order to make a determination.
71-108
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 10, 2017
Executive Session - Exemption 6 (Purchase of Real Estate): Pine Grove/Judges Road Affordable
Housing
On motion duly made and by roll call at 9:13 a.m., the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to enter
into Executive Session under Exemption 6 to consider the purchase, exchange, lease or value of
real property, Pine Grove/Judges Road Affordable Housing, and to reconvene in Open Session
only to adjourn and the CPC to continue its meeting. Further, it was declared that an open
meeting might have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of the Town.
Mr. Lucente stated he owns property in close proximity and he filed a 23(b)(3) form with the
Clerk’s office to dispel the appearance of a conflict of interest.
Adjournment
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at
approximately 9:40 a.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Katzenback
Recording Secretary
71-109
Selectmen’s Meeting
March 13, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 7:01 p.m. on Monday,
March 13, 2017 in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Chairman
Barry, Mr. Kelley, Mr. Pato, Ms. Ciccolo and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente,
Town Manager and Ms. Siebert, Recording Secretary.
Public Comments
Dawn McKenna, Tourism Committee Chair, thanked the Board of Selectmen and Town
Manager for their support of the recent Voyages en Francophonie events. This year, the French
Consul asked Lexington to host the children’s program, attended by residents from across the
state. Due to the success of the program, the event will be held in Lexington again next year. The
Tourism Committee is also working with Spectacle Management to augment next year’s
program with a related Sunday performance.
Selectmen Concerns
Ms. Barry reported that a meeting was convened with Selectmen Barry and Pato, Town Manager
Valente, School Committee members Ms. Jay and Ms. Steigerwald and Superintendent
Czajkowski to discuss the creation of a Diversity Think Tank, based on recommendations from
the Vision 20/20 Committee. A second meeting of this group will be scheduled for some time in
April.
Town Manager Report
Claire Goodwin, Management Fellow, announced that the Vision 20/20 Committee has launched
its town-wide survey which is available online or in hardcopy at the Town Office Building,
st
Community Center, and Cary Library and the response deadline is March 31. The purpose of
the survey is to gather feedback from Lexington residents about which municipal services
citizens deem most important and to help the Town improve its services.
Mr. Valente said Town staff are actively preparing for tomorrow’s anticipated severe weather
event. Mr. Valente stated Town Public buildings will be closed, all public meetings have been
cancelled, Lexpress will not operate and trash collection will be delayed by one day. A parking
th
ban is in effect on public roads starting at 9:00 a.m. tomorrow, March 14, and continuing until
9:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 15 but Town lots will remain open. A Code Red message will be
sent out tonight via telephone and storm-related information has also been posted on the Town
website. Chief of Police Mark Corr said anyone with a Lexington phone—including households
with unpublished numbers—will be contacted via the Code Red system. Those with cell phones
that do not have a Lexington exchange are encouraged to sign up by visiting the Police website.
Update: Bikeway Signage Project
David Kucharsky, Town Planner, and Beth Isler, Toole Design, presented designs for wayfinding
and regulatory signs to be placed on, or in the vicinity of, the Minuteman Bikeway. Mr.
71-110
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 13, 2017
Kucharsky provided some background of this project: Ms. Isler showed examples of different
signs intended for the bikeway and stated that Toole Design proposes: 59 wayfinding signs on
the full length of the path; 24 wayfinding signs off the path; 14 street signs; 20 mile markers; 57
regulatory signs (Stop, Yield, etc.); 27 current signs removed; and 31 signs re-located. The signs
are intended to improve safety at path crossings to establish rights of way. Another goal of sign
placement is to encourage economic development by connecting the bikeway users to amenities
along the way.
Mr. Kucharsky said the next steps include: advertising the bid to fabricate and install the signs;
reviewing bids and awarding the contract; scheduling the work during 2017 construction season;
and beginning development of kiosks and other interpretive signage.
Mr. Kelley asked if the blue selected for the signs is a universal color for bike paths since Town
signs are green. Ms. Barry asked how bike path users will know which town they are in. Mr.
Kucharsky said there will be signs indicating town lines.
Mr. Kucharsky said Public Safety recommended that ½ mile markers be installed, which the
project now includes. Currently installed granite mile markers will be re-purposed. Ms. Isler
said the mileage markings begin at Alewife and end in Bedford. Emergency response would
know the town based on the mileage reported.
Dawn McKenna, Chair of the Tourism Committee, also thanked the team for their efforts and
suggested using the “Linger in Lexington” logo on the signs to help orient bikeway users. Ms.
McKenna encouraged the team to coordinate with the Tourism Committee so that kiosks and
interpretive signs throughout town are consistent.
ATM 2017 Warrant Article Update: Article 37—Amend General By-Laws—Trees
Nancy Sofen and Gerry Paul from the Tree Committee spoke about proposed amendments to the
tree bylaw that deal mainly with protected large tree removal mitigation, including fees and
dimensions of replacement trees. The goals are to discourage large tree removal and to provide
incentives to maintain/protect tree health.
Ms. Sofen noted there is currently no mitigation required if replacement trees are removed or die
shortly after planting. Language to correct this oversight is proposed within the amendments.
One of the key issues being addressed by the amendments is loss of tree canopy. The
amendments would also provide a re-planting bonus of ½ inch for every diameter inch removed
if the replacement species are selected from a list of recommended large shade trees. Species
diversity— to guard against decimation by pests— is a collateral goal of the list which does not
include host trees for the Asian Longhorn Beetle and the Emerald Ash Borer.
71-111
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 13, 2017
Higher payments would be mandated for choosing not to replant and replanted tree health must
be maintained for 2 years after a certificate of occupancy is granted. Enforcement of the bylaw
would rely of voluntary compliance and/or reporting by abutters.
In the case of the removal of trees 24 inches or larger, the amendment would require mitigation
of 4 times that amount, as if 96 diameter inches had been removed. The current fee for not
replanting is $50/inch; the proposed fee would increase to $100/inch. Ms. Sofen said even with
the increase, the mitigation amount is lower than many nearby towns with similar bylaws.
The recommended motion for Article 37 includes two addenda that Ms. Sofren asked to be
approved by the Selectmen so they can be included in the Tree Management Manual.
Ms. Ciccolo asked how the enforcement of replanting within two months of a certificate of
occupancy will be enforced.
Mr. Paul said the current practice is that the Tree Warden does not approve the certificate of
occupancy until trees have been replanted or the mitigation fee has been paid. Mr. Filadoro, Tree
Warden, said the owner or builder would have to pay into the Tree fund or make other
arrangements prior to the closing.
Ms. Ciccolo asked how the list of trees was chosen and if the addenda proposed would become
part of the bylaw Town Meeting would be asked to approve. Ms. Sofen said the addenda are
separate and the Tree Committee can propose changes to the manual to be approved by the
Selectmen without needing to seek approval from Town Meeting. The list was developed by
Tree Committee members with referral to tree species being planted in Worcester, closer to the
pest infestation. There are no maples, elms, or ashes on the list.
Ms. Ciccolo recommended that the list be included in the addenda so it can be changed easily if
other trees become susceptible or develop problems. She also expressed concern about the 4
times rule appearing in the addenda because Town Meeting might not be comfortable that this
can be changed without its approval.
Mr. Paul clarified that the language about replanting within 12 months is in current bylaw, not a
proposed change. He added that putting changes into the Tree Manual as opposed to the Tree
bylaw was done specifically to allow time for the Tree Warden to see how workable the new
regulations are. If they need to be adjusted, proposals can be presented to the Selectmen rather
than to Town Meeting. However, the Committee will consider Ms. Ciccolo’s comments.
Mr. Pato asked for clarification regarding replacement planting mitigation, asking if removal of a
24-inch tree would require replanting 96 inches under the 4 times rule. He believes the proposed
rule indicated that one inch should be replaced by one inch, unless the 24-inch threshold is
crossed. Ms. Sofen thanked Mr. Pato for this clarification and said the language will be adjusted
for the replanting mitigation.
A resident asked if there is a way to know if a neighbor is supposed to replace trees they cut
down. She lives in an area where a lot of white pine trees and beeches are being removed. Mr.
71-112
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 13, 2017
Paul replied that building permits, scanned digitally and accessible online, have trees marked for
removal. The Tree Warden and the Tree Committee can also be contacted as they have running
lists about tree removal. The lists are not available online.
Dawn McKenna, Precinct 6 Town Meeting member, asked if the article will be proposed in one
motion or in several. Ms. Sofen said the intent is to present it in one motion. Ms. McKenna
recommended it be broken up. Ms. McKenna said she is concerned about the 12-month
replanting stipulation and suggested the bylaw be changed to a shorter period of time. She does
not believe it is fair to make a builder/owner pay the fee if they cannot wait 12 months for a
certificate of occupancy.
Gloria Bloom, 17 Loring Rd, suggested owners/builders who pay into the Tree Fund be allowed
to reclaim their mitigation if they later offer proof of replanting. This way, the Tree Warden
would not need to check back; it would be up to the owner to request the reimbursement.
Ms. Barry said she believes it is premature for the Selectmen to approve the addenda before
Town Meeting approves the bylaw amendments. She asked the Tree Committee to come back
for those approvals after Town Meeting concludes.
ATM 2017 Warrant Article Update: Article 45—Amend Zoning By-Law—Balanced Housing
Development—Citizen’s Article
Christopher Locher, 242 Grove Street, is a proponent for this article which proposes that
Balanced Housing Development (BHD) applications be subject to Town Meeting approval
before a Special Permit can be issued, just as preliminary site plans now must be approved by
Town Meeting for planned developments (PRDs).
Mr. Locher said the article basically constitutes a change in process in the form of requesting
approval for changes to the Zoning Bylaws. Approvals and permits would be applied for and
obtained separately; Town Meeting would represent one such approval but would not grant the
Special Permit.
Mr. Locher stated the rationale for Article 45 is that there are issues that fall outside the purview
of the Planning Board and BHD offers no incentive to protect open space or to put land into
conservation. The original intention was for BHD to encourage smaller footprint housing but,
when analyzed, it has not resulted in more affordable housing alternatives. Quite the reverse,
BHD may actually threaten Lexington’s 10% SHI by creating a larger housing inventory without
compensatory affordable units. The financial incentive is significant for developers to propose
balanced housing developments; increased residential density erodes the town’s character, adds
to the school-age population, and impacts municipal services.
Mr. Pato asked if injecting Town Meeting into the BHD process by way of zoning bylaw
amendment is the goal of the article and, if so, if Town Counsel has deemed this appropriate. Mr.
Valente said Counsel’s early assessment of the article was that could not be proposed as written
under State law.
71-113
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 13, 2017
Mr. Locher said if this is the case, the bylaws pertaining to PRDs would also not pass muster.
Mr. Valente said that, in the case of PRDs, the parcels are rezoned as part of the process, which
clears the hurdle of legality. The way Article 45 is written, underlying zoning still exists.
Mr. Locher said he is not sure if Town Counsel has seen the revised version of Article 45. He
was initially concerned the way Article 45 was written would make Town Meeting the Special
Permitting authority. The revision makes clear this would not be the case.
Mr. Pato asked Mr. Locher if he could accomplish the goal by merely removing the BHD
classification altogether and ask instead for property to be re-zoned under the existing PRD
bylaws. Mr. Locher said he is amenable to this approach. Mr. Kelley agreed with Mr. Pato.
Ms. Ciccolo said the Selectmen are awaiting an understanding of what the Planning Board will
propose under Article 40—Amend Zoning Bylaw—Special Permit Residential Developments,
which may do some of what Mr. Locher proposes with Article 45. She, too, is concerned that
Article 45 does not seem viable as written.
Mr. Pato echoed Ms. Ciccolo’s desire to wait to see what the Planning Board proposes. His
understanding is that there will be provisions added to ensure a Public Benefit for higher density
development which would mitigate many of the concerns expresses by Mr. Locher.
Mr. Locher said he was called by the Planning Board just today. The most recent form of the
bylaw is not posted correctly on the Planning website but Mr. Locher found the updated version
on the Town website and was able to correct some of the acronyms and terms.
Mr. Lucente said he appreciates the intent behind Article 45 because it is an issue that needs to
be addressed.
Ms. Barry said the Planning Board, according to Chair Richard Canale, intends to take up BHD
at their next meeting on March 15. The Town Meeting Planning articles will also come before
the Selectmen prior to Town Meeting at the 6:00 p.m. meeting, Wednesday, March 22.
Proposed Local Acceptance Statutes from Municipal Modernization Legislation
Speed Limit Regulations (Sections 193-194): David Kucharsky, TSG
Town Meeting Article 36 deals with the adoption of Section 193, Mass General Law Chapter 90,
Section 17C Thickly Settled or Business District. It would allow the Town to reduce the statutory
speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph. MassDOT recommends communities opt in to the
legislation town-wide to avoid confusion. The revision is applicable to any Town-owned
roadway that has no posted speed limits and where no speed studies have been performed.
Adoption of Section 194, Mass General Law Chapter 90, Section 18B allows municipalities to
establish safety zones with regulatory 20mph limits.
71-114
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 13, 2017
The Selectmen asked the Transportation Advisory Group (TSG) to review the statutes to
recommend how they would be implemented if adopted. The pros of adopting a town wide speed
limit of 25mph, as recommended by MassDOT, are: global acceptance; quick implementation;
modest number of signs needed. The cons are:concern that drivers would not remain aware of
the lower limit; perception that the lower limit is merely a symbolic gesture; potential for
confusion on major entry roads with already posted limits.
Opting in on a street-by-street basis also carries a list of pros and cons. Pros: increased awareness
and improved effectiveness in reducing speeds where most needed; a potential tool for TSG to
use to improve safety. Cons: majority of streets may meet the criteria, resulting in the need to
erect signage which is costly, causes sign fatigue, and adds to visual clutter; extensive
installation and maintenance required.
Given the State’s recommendation and pro/con analysis, TSG recommends the statute be
adopted town wide. In addition to posting “Thickly Settled District 25 mph” signs on a limited
number of roadways, additional roadways would be evaluated for signage based on a set of
criteria: traffic volumes, pedestrian and cyclist activity, crash history, road condition, functional
classification, and whether the roadway has been accepted by the Town.
To establish a 20mph Safety Zone, TSG noted that adoption of the provision would be regulatory
rather than statutory and require a study by traffic engineers. MassDOT requires that a safety
zone be adjacent to land uses that are likely to attract “vulnerable users” and should contain one
or more areas where potential conflicts between motor vehicles and vulnerable users interact,
warranting the reduction of speed. The minimum length of the Safety Zone is no less than ¼ mile
and should not extend more than 500 feet beyond a side street unless applicable land use
continues along the adjacent block. TSG has added a fourth criterion which takes into account
the crash history involving pedestrians and cyclists.
Mr. Pato asked if the provision would come back before the Selectmen after Town Meeting is
over to be applied. Mr. Kucharsky said he will confirm the process. The Town is obligated to
inform the State that these provisions have been adopted.
Mr. Lucente asked how the Town would inform the citizens that the lower speed will be
enforced. He questioned if signs at the entry points would be enough.
Chief Corr said enforcement and achieving voluntary compliance is a large part of the Police
Department’s job. He believes a major public education push will be needed, including using the
electric sign boards, the website, and other available methods. For the beginning of the roll out,
he envisions issuing warnings rather than citations.
Ms. Ciccolo said, since already posted speeds will not change, lowering unposted streets to 25
mph may not achieve changes to the extent the Town would like. She cautioned citizens to set
their expectations accordingly.
Revolving Funds and PEG Special Revenue Fund
71-115
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 13, 2017
Town Meeting Article 38 is one of a number of articles on the warrant dealing with municipal
finances, Mr. Valente said. If adopted, future Town Meetings will no longer be required to re-
authorize individual Revolving Funds themselves, only specific dollar amounts.
The Rental Revolving Fund must be accepted by Town Meeting but no substantive change in the
way it operates is being proposed.
Another Municipal Modernization acceptance refers to how the Town would handle injured-on-
duty claims for Police and Fire. The new statute allows towns to appropriate funds and to be
allowed to carry these funds over to the next fiscal year, rather than returning them and re-
appropriating them for again next year.
The last Modernization acceptance deals with the issuance of tax bills under $100. If adopted,
the Town will send these bills out once a year instead of quarterly.
Separately, Article 8 asks that the current PEG Revolving Fund be converted to a Special
Revenue Fund. There are minor differences in how the two types of funds are administered.
Dawn McKenna, Tourism Committee Chair, recommended language changes for the items listed
under the Tourism Committee Revolving Fund. She asked it to be specified that both the Visitors
Center and the Liberty Ride can submit Capital requests.
Update: Article 28 of ATM 2016—Chapter 59 Section 2D of MGL
Mr. Pato stated Article 28 was indefinitely postponed at ATM 2016 pending deeper analysis.
Adopting Mass General Law Chapter 59 Section 2D would increase revenues to the Town
annually by a non-trivial amount because it would cause real time tax assessments to certain built
properties that increase in value over 50% in the course of a fiscal year. Current practice wait
until the next fiscal year to adjust the tax bill.
Mr. Pato recommends that the Selectmen rescind the 2003 Board of Selectmen’s rejection of the
statute in order to adopt the provision. Action on this provision must take place in the fiscal year
prior to the year in which it is applied; acting before the end of FY17 would permit application in
FY18.
Mr. Pato will make a brief presentation about these findings at Annual Town Meeting.
Ms. Ciccolo asked if adoption requires Town Meeting approval. Mr. Pato reported only
Selectmen action is needed.
Mr. Kelley asked if the Assessor has been consulted. Mr. Pato said he and Ms. Bloom worked in
conjunction with the Assessor’s Office. Mr. Valente said the question of administration is an
open one and it has not been determined whether the new system would require additional staff.
Mr. Lucente asked what the reasons were for the 2003 rejection. Mr. Kelley said, in his
recollection, the rejection was due to the mismatch of time and the amount of work required to
71-116
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 13, 2017
set up a new system. Mr. Lucente said he approved of the new system but did not want to have to
hire additional staff to carry it out.
Gloria Bloom, 17 Loring Road, thanked all involved for their work. To avoid the element of
surprise, property owners could be informed that a bill is coming. She added one reason the
provision was rejected in 2003 was because there was not such a large number of teardowns
then, a phenomenon that has since dramatically increased. She believes new owners expect to
pay bigger residential real estate taxes because their properties have increased in value.
Ms. McKenna said she was on the Board of Selectmen in 2003 and her recollection is there was
a small number of teardowns at the time. She believes also that there was an impediment in State
law. There was also the concern about administrative application, staffing levels in Town Hall
were minimal at the time.
Article Positions & Presenters ATM 2017 & STM 2017-1
Consent Agenda items were confirmed, noting some previously considered articles did not
receive unanimous support from the Appropriation Committee and have therefore been pulled.
Selectmen article positions still to be determined:
Article 15—Appropriate for School Capital Projects and Equipment: Ciccolo yes; Kelley wait;
Barry yes; Pato yes; Lucente wait. School Committee and Appropriation have not yet taken a
position. Mr. Pato will present/move.
Article 16—Appropriate for Public Facilities Capital Projects, items a through j: The
Appropriation Committee has voted to approve all but 16b, which they have not yet voted. The
School Committee has yet to take positions on any of the items.
Ms. Ciccolo recused on 16e because it deals with Pelham Road and will wait on 16b and 16j. She
is a yes on all others; Kelley wait on all; Barry wait on 16b and yes on all others; Pato yes on all
but 16b; Lucente yes on all but wait on 16b. Mr. Kelley will present/move.
Article 31—Resolution to Reduce the Influence of Money in Politics: Ciccolo remains a wait;
Kelley changed wait to yes.
Article 32—Establish Cannabis Committee: Lucente and Barry change from wait to no.
Article 33—Amend General Bylaws—Scenic Roads: The Planning Board voted 4-0 to approve
with one member recused. Ciccolo recused; Kelley wait; Barry wait; Pato wait; Lucente wait.
Mr. Lucente will present.
Article 35—Amend General Bylaws—NCD Technical Changes: Planning Board voted 5-0 to
approve. Ciccolo yes; Kelley yes; Barry yes; Pato yes; Lucente yes. Mr. Pato will present.
Article 36—Amend General Bylaws—Municipal Modernization Act: Ciccolo yes; Kelley yes;
Barry yes; Pato yes; Lucente yes. Mr. Kelley will present.
71-117
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 13, 2017
Article 37—Amend General Bylaws—Trees: Planning Board voted 4-1 in favor with Mr. Hornig
dissenting. Ciccolo wait; Kelley wait; Barry wait; Pato wait for language clarification; Lucente
wait. Ms. Barry will present.
Article 38—Amend General Bylaws—Revolving Funds: Ciccolo yes; Kelley yes; Barry yes;
Pato yes; Lucente yes. Mr. Lucente will present.
Article 39—Amend General Bylaws—Right to Farm: Planning Board has yet to take a position.
Ciccolo wait; Kelley no; Barry wait; Pato wait; Lucente wait. Ms. Ciccolo will present.
Article 46—Amend Zoning Bylaw—Chapter 135 Medical Marijuana: Planning Board will move
that Town Meeting strike from the Table of Uses all Ys except in zone CM. If Town Meeting
approves that, then the Planning Board supports the article. Mr. Valente said there are two
portions to the article and one is a definitions piece that the Planning Board supports. The other
piece would extend medical marijuana clinics to all districts and the Planning Board does not
support that. Ms. Barry pointed out this is not how the motion is written. Ciccolo is presently a
no but would support the Planning Board’s revision; Kelley no; Barry no as written; Pato no but
supports the Planning Board amendment; Lucente no. Ms. Ciccolo will present.
Article 12—Appropriate for Municipal Capital Projects a through x:
12a will be indefinitely postponed. The Appropriation Committee voted 9-0 in favor of all except
item q, the highway sign machine, on which they have not yet voted. Ms. Ciccolo asked if the
bikeway signs could be made with the machine instead of sent out to bid. Mr. Valente will check.
All except Mr. Lucente voted to approve sub-articles 12b though 12x. Mr. Lucente approved all
but project o: CPA Debt Service. He would like more information. Mr. Pato will present.
Article 20—Accept Harbell Street: Ciccolo yes; Kelley yes; Barry yes; Pato yes; Lucente wait to
hear if there is feedback from opposition. Mr. Pato said he would be willing to change his mind
if opposition is strong. Mr. Kelley will present.
Mr. Kelley said with regard to Article 10d—Judges Road, he would like the Board to consider a
different structure to address perpetual affordability. The Board will add an Executive Session on
the matter on March 20.
Review of Selectmen Liaison Assignments
The Board reviewed the committee liaison list. Community Center Advisory, Electric Utility Ad
Hoc, Grain Mill Alley (soon to be dissolved), Community Farming (soon to be dissolved), and
Sister City committees were eliminated. Mr. Pato will check with Richard Canale from Planning
to see if Scenic Byways is still active.
Retired Selectman Cohen will retain membership on the Community Preservation Committee
until June.
71-118
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 13, 2017
Ms. Barry took the Cary Library Executive Committee and LexHAB from Mr. Cohen’s list and
HATS from Mr. Pato’s list. Mr. Pato will take Policy Manual from Mr. Cohen’s list. Ms.
Ciccolo took Tax Deferral and Exemption, gave Youth Sports to Mr. Lucente. Mr. Lucente took
Recreation from Ms. Barry, Economic Development Advisory from Mr. Kelley, Energy
Conservation from Mr. Pato, and will join Ms. Barry on Community Coalition.
Ms. McIntosh, Executive Clerk, will update the list and redistribute for final approval.
Ms. Ciccolo drafted a liaison policy document to help guide members on the role they play. The
policy is also intended to help committee chairs understand how to interact with the liaison and
what to expect from Selectmen.
Ms. Ciccolo noted that reexamination of committee charges continues to come up on the
Selectmen’s work plan. Ms. Barry agreed that reviews should be conducted but perhaps not
every year. A rotation could be established.
Mr. Pato said he is glad for an articulation of minimum guidelines. His practice is to deal with
committees on a case-by-case basis. He is active on some, even though he is a liaison, and on
others in he merely checks in with the Chair and follows along by reading the minutes.
Mr. Lucente agreed the document is a good minimum guideline and noted committees often look
to the Selectman liaison for direction. He believes it is important for Selectmen to establish
accessibility with committees and chairs.
Mr. Lucente said it behooves the Selectmen to look at the charges with some frequency because
it helps work flow and because some charges are mandated by the State.
Mr. Pato said one of the recommendations the Selectmen received from Vision 20/20 was to look
at committee charges and create more accessible articulations of goal and scope. He
recommended each Selectman consider which of the committees on their own lists seem to be in
most need and attend to them in the next year.
Ms. Ciccolo agreed and added that working with committee chairs whose groups have strayed
off task will help make the committees more functional and successful.
Mr. Pato added that succession planning is an important component to address. Some of the
committees work well because there is a successful chair but the community needs to make sure
there is more than one potential leader for the group. The workload needs to be proportionally
distributed and not all on the shoulders of one dedicated person.
Future Board of Selectmen Meeting Dates July-December 2017
Board of Selectmen meetings were proposed for the following Monday evenings:
July 17 and 31
August 14 and 28
September 11, 18, and 25
71-119
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 13, 2017
October 2, 16, and 30
November 6, 13, and 27
December 4 and 18
A weekday daytime Goal Setting meeting will be added for mid-to-late June, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00
p.m.
stth
Meetings were also added on May 1 and June 26
Consent Agenda
Water & Sewer Commitments & Adjustments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve Water &
Sewer commitments Special Billing BB116 ($19,928.00); Water & Sewer Commitments January
2017 Final Water Bills $3,401.72; Water & Sewer Commitments Special Billing BB1231
$7,111.32; Water & Sewer Commitments Cycle 9 January 2017 $242,973.91; and Water &
Sewer Commitments as recommended by WSAB February $2,611.06.
Approve Minutes & Executive Session Minutes—September 2016
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve and release
the minutes of September 7, September 12, September 21, September 26 and a joint meeting
between the Board of Selectmen and School Committee on September 13, 2016.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve but not
release the Executive Session minutes of September 12 and September 26, 2016.
Approve Tax Bill Inserts
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve three tax
bill inserts from: the Lexington Business Directory that will be inserted in envelopes addressed
to those that pay personal property tax on a business (approximately 900); the Visitor Center,
inserted in all property tax bills; and the REV, inserted in all property tax bills.
Approve One-Day Liquor License—Lexington Historical Society
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve a request
for a one-day liquor license from the Lexington Historical Society for the purpose of a
Conservation Evening fundraiser at the Lexington Depot on March 23, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. to
8:00 p.m.
Use of the Battle Green—Historical Society Battle Re-Enactment
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve a request
from the Lexington Historical Society to use the Battle Green on April 19, 2017 for an annual
children’s Battle Reenactment from 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. and from 12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.
71-120
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 13, 2017
Executive Session
Upon motion duly made and by roll call, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to enter Executive
Session at 9:30 p.m. under Exemption 3 to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining
related to Crossing Guards Union and, further, to enter Executive Session under Exemption 6 to
consider the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property, Community Center-Adjacent
Parking Lot and Land, and to re-convene in Open Session only to adjourn. It was declared that
that an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining and negotiating position(s)
of the Town.
Ms. Barry will be recused from the Crossing Guard discussion and Ms. Ciccolo will be recused
from portions of the Community Center parking lot discussion that deals with Pelham Road
property.
Adjourn
Upon re-convening in Open Session and upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of
Selectmen voted 4-0 to adjourn at approximately 10:20 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary
71-121
Selectmen’s Meeting
March 20, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 6:30 p.m. on Monday,
March 20, 2017 in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Chairman
Barry, Mr. Kelley, Mr. Pato, Ms. Ciccolo and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente,
Town Manager and Ms. Siebert, Recording Secretary.
Selectman Concerns and Liaison Reports
Mr. Pato reported that the 20/20 Vision Committee is conducting an every-five-year Town-wide
survey that can be taken by Lexington residents online or in hardcopy format. He noted the
demographic questions in the survey are included to ensure the committee is getting a
representative sampling across sub-populations, compared to the Federal census, but these
questions should be considered optional.
Town Manager Report
th
Mr. Valente said the first hazardous waste collection of the year will be held on April 15 at 201
Bedford Street instead of at the Hartwell Avenue facility which is in the midst of solar panel
installation.
Amend Change: Economic Development Advisory Committee
Mr. Valente reported that the Economic Development Committee has requested a reduction in
member numbers from 11 to 9 as it has been difficult to reach a quorum with the higher number.
There are currently 9 members. A typo related to the number of Selectman liaisons will be
corrected to read “two” rather the “one.”
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to amend the charge of
the Economic Development Advisory Committee, reducing the number of members from 11 to
9.
Class II Auto Dealer—Corporate Name Change
Mr. Lucente was recused from this discussion due to a family relationship with the owner of the
company.
Ms. Barry stated that Lexington Auto Sales LLC has submitted all the necessary paperwork
needed to request reconsideration of their previous application to renew their dealer license
effective January 1, 2017. The application was returned by the State of Massachusetts as the
corporation name (Lexington Auto Sales, LLC) did not match the name on the license renewal
(Lexington Auto Sales).
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to approve the
application reflecting the change of corporate name and reissue a Class II Dealer License to
Lexington Auto Sales, LLC, located at 542 Massachusetts Avenue.
71-122
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 20, 2017
Approve Common Victualler License for Dunkin’ Donuts
The Board has received a completed application from Dunkin Donuts for a Common Victualler
License, located at 277 Bedford Street. Requested hours of operation are Monday-Sunday, 5:00
a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Mr. Kelley said he assumes the application has received the required Special Permit from the
ZBA but he wonders if the hours of operation were granted within the terms of the Special
Permit or if the Board of Selectmen, as the license issuer, can name the hours. The closing hour
of 10:00 p.m. seems to be later than might be desired by the neighborhood. Mr. Valente said the
Selectmen are the appropriate authority and can determine the hours.
Ms. Ciccolo asked if license renewal will occur every year, thus giving the Board the opportunity
to change hours of operation if problems occur. Mr. Valente confirmed the license is on an
annual renewal cycle.
Mr. Pato noted this Dunkin’ Donuts is attached to a gas station which presumably keeps the
same hours.
Mr. Lucente said the neighbors should be informed of the hours so that they won’t be caught off-
guard when delivery trucks start backing up in the parking lot at 5:00 a.m.
Mr. Kelley said the ZBA, in the Special Permitting process, would have notified abutters, giving
neighbors the opportunity to attend the hearing, ask questions, and express concerns. If the
business was granted the Special Permit, it is entitled to the license.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve a Common
Victualler License for Dunkin’ Donuts, 277 Bedford St, with the hours as proposed.
Selectmen Liaison Member/Committee Update
th
At the last meeting on March 13, the Selectmen reviewed the Board’s committee liaison
assignments. It was discovered that two committees—the Policy Manual Committee and the
Fund for Lexington—have 6 members listed in their charges rather than a preferred odd number;
Ms. Barry asked if her colleagues agree the number should be raised to 7.
She asked further if her colleagues agree that the Policy Manual Committee should have two
current, sitting Selectmen listed in the charge instead of one.
Ms. Barry said the amended language of the charge will brought back before the Board at a later
date.
Article Positions & Presenters ATM 2017 & STM 2017-1
Ms. Barry noted that the Article 5 text will be at the Selectmen’s places at tonight’s Town
Meeting.
71-123
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 20, 2017
The strategy for the evening is to open the meeting and complete Special Town Meeting-1, then
begin the Annual Town Meeting by addressing Article 3— Cary Lecture. The next article to be
taken up—Article 37—Amend General Bylaws—Trees— was postponed because of staff
concerns and the need for the Selectmen to re-visit article before it is presented. Ms. Barry
penciled in the discussion of Article 37 for the Wednesday, March 29 and asked that relevant
staff be asked to attend.
The remainder of the night’s agenda will cover articles 35—Amend General Bylaws—NCD
Technical Changes; 36—Amend General Bylaws—Municipal Modernization Act; and 38—
Amend General Bylaws—Revolving Funds, according to the latest from the Town Moderator.
Ms. Barry asked her colleagues if anyone wanted to update a previous vote on any of the articles.
Ms. Barry changed her “yes” vote on Article 36 to “recuse” because one of the subsections deals
with Police officer payment if injured and her husband is a Police Officer. She asked presenter
Mr. Kelley to amend the Selectmen’s vote from “5 in favor” to “4 in favor and one recusal”.
Ms. Ciccolo had been a “wait” on Article 31, in anticipation of receiving a revised copy of the
motion. Mr. Valente said the motions should be at the Selectmen’s places at Cary Hall. Ms.
Ciccolo said her vote could be changed to “yes” but she would like to see the revised article from
the petitioner before the Wednesday vote. Ms. Barry changed the Selectmen’s votes on Article
31 to “5 in favor”.
Ms. Barry noted that Mr. Kelley is the only Selectman to so far take a position on Article 39—
Right to Farm. Mr. Pato has not received the information he requested about what other
communities similar to Lexington have done about the issue. In the absence of that information,
he leans toward a “no” vote but will wait to make it official in the hope of receiving the
information.
Ms. Ciccolo asked if the Planning Board has weighed in on Right to Farm. Since the Planning
Board will present its articles to the Selectmen March 22, the Board opted to wait to hear from
Planning before taking positions.
This Wednesday, Town Meeting will take up anything not finished tonight and then Article 2—
Elect the Deputy Moderator, Article 31—Resolution on Money in Politics; Article 32—Establish
Cannabis Committee; Article 39—Right to Farm; and Article 46—Amend Zoning Bylaw—
Chapter 135 Medical Marijuana. If all of these articles are completed, Mr. Valente will begin his
Town Manager’s Report on Wednesday as well.
The ATM Consent agenda will be addressed on Monday of next week.
Mr. Valente added that he will deliver a report on Capital Financing and use of the Capital
Stabilization Fund tonight during the STM portion of the proceedings. Ms. Barry noted that the
totals have changed slightly; Mr. Valente said the updated figures are also at the Board’s places
in Cary Hall.
71-124
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 20, 2017
Consent Agenda
Water & Sewer Commitments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve Water &
Sewer Commitments Cycle 9 November 2016 for $212,402.04; Water & Sewer Commitments
Special Billing January 2017 for $17,560.51; Water and Sewer Commitments Finals February
2017 for $4,504.48; and Water & Sewer Commitments Miscellaneous Required Adjustments for
$113.44.
Approve and Sign Letter of Appreciation—Town Meeting Members
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve and sign a
letter of appreciation to the following former Town Meeting members who were not re-elected or
chose not to run in the 2017 election cycle. The letter offers the appreciation of the Board for
their service to the Town and extends the opportunity to continue to serve on a board or
committee or some other way: Suzanne Abair, Diane Bigelow, David Burns, Lawrence Chan,
Joel Herda, Iang Jeon, David Kaufman, Kenneth Kreutzinger, Paul Minutti, Sharmila Mudgal,
Michael O’Sullivan, Judith Pappo, Paul Rubin, Kimberly Ryan, Carol Sampson, Thomas
Wanderer, David Williams, and Jeri Zeder.
Executive Session
Upon motion duly made and by roll call, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to enter Executive
Session at 6:50 p.m. under Exemption 6 to consider the purchase, exchange, lease or value of
real property, Community Center-Adjacent Parking Lot and Land, and to re-convene in Open
Session only to adjourn. It was declared that that an open meeting may have a detrimental effect
on the negotiating position of the Town.
Adjourn
Upon re-convening in Open Session and upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of
Selectmen voted 4-0 to adjourn at approximately 7:15 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary
71-125
Selectmen’s Meeting
March 22, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 6:02 p.m. on Wednesday
March 22, 2017 in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Chairman
Barry, Mr. Kelley, Mr. Pato, Ms. Ciccolo and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente,
Town Manager and Ms. Siebert, Recording Secretary.
Selectman Concerns and Liaison Reports
Mr. Pato stated he met with members of the community regarding questions about particular
demographic questions in the Vision 20/20 survey. The meeting was organized by members of
the Chinese American Association of Lexington (CAAL) and a subset of the Vision 20/20
Committee. He noted an email was sent to the Selectmen from the Chair of the survey
subcommittee, Mr. Enrich.
Mr. Pato said the Town Moderator has asked him to provide an update on last year’s Town
Meeting gun article and the supplemental tax model. Mr. Pato noted he sent the Moderator a
draft of the update with only slight edits from what he presented recently to the Board of
Selectmen. There have been no substantive changes.
Article 30—Review by Appropriation Committee
Ms. Barry was recused from the discussion as her husband is a Town employee. Ms. Ciccolo
assumed the role of Chair.
Ms. Ciccolo said the Selectmen requested a review of Article 30 by the Appropriation
Committee. The article was submitted by the Retirement Board and asks Town Meeting to
approve a $1,000 increase in the COLA base from $13,000 to $14,000. The base was increased
two years ago from $12,000 to $13,000.
John Bartenstein, Chair of Appropriation, delivered the review, saying the matter is a
complicated yet important one because projections show significant budget impact in FY23 and
FY24. The goal of the review was to understand why that would happen and what it means.
Mr. Bartenstein said the majority of committee members felt the Selectmen, working with the
Town Manager, should be able to determine all aspects of compensation as a complete package
with components that are inter-related. However, Mr. Bartenstein said the Appropriation
Committee is alright with the arrangement as long as the Selectmen remember the COLA base is
an element of the bigger compensation picture.
The proposed increase adds about $100,000 a year to the cost of the pension level for current
employees. The increase also has an estimated $1M impact on OPEB, although Mr. Bartenstein
said the actuarial studies are somewhat confusing.
The concern at hand is the way the impact was structured by the Retirement Board. The
unfunded liability was basically back-loaded, Mr. Bartenstein said, so the costs hits in FY23
when OPEB amortization increases by $330,000 and by $1,886,000 in FY24.
71-126
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 22, 2017
Through discussion with the Town Manager, Mr. Bartenstein said he is happy to learn there is
flexibility in how to move forward. Mr. Valente is concerned that the one of the effects of
deferring payments against OPEB liability is that interest accrued by those payments is also
deferred.
This year’s pension retirement is already fixed but future actions can be discussed. Mr.
Bartenstein noted an Appropriation Committee minority opinion opposes granting the increase at
Town Meeting. The majority, however, feels COLA to be important and believes the Town, as
an employer, should match consumer adjustment increases.
Ms. Ciccolo said Appropriation’s report was comprehensive and she appreciated the work that
went into it. Mr. Valente said the matter is scheduled to come up at ATM17 on Wednesday,
March 29.
Mr. Kelley asked if the 5-member Retirement Board was unanimous in approving the request.
Mr. Bartenstein said he asked for the minutes of the meeting at which the vote was taken but has
not yet received them.
Mr. Pato said he appreciates the work Appropriation has done and wants to take time to consider
the findings before the Selectmen take positions on the article.
Ms. Barry returned to the meeting.
Application for Common Victualler License—Great Harvest Bread
Ms. Barry said all license application requirements have been fulfilled by K & N Food Services,
doing business as Great Harvest Bread Co, 233 Mass. Ave.
Ms. Ciccolo asked Mr. Valente about the status of a crosswalk across Massachusetts Ave.
requested by Great Harvest. Mr. Valente had no news to report other than the business is also
hoping for a connection to the bikeway, which Ms. Tintocalis is working on.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve a Common
Victualler License for Great Harvest, 233 Massachusetts Avenue for the hours of Monday
through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Article Positions & Presenters ATM 2017 & STM 20017-1
Town Meeting will take up articles 31, 32, 39, and 46 tonight.
Ms. Barry noted that Mr. Kelley is the only Selectmen to have voted so far on Article 39—Right
to Farm. Like Mr. Kelley, Ms. Ciccolo, Ms. Barry and Mr. Lucente also voted “no; Mr. Pato said
he had deferred his vote pending receipt of information he requested but, since he still has not
received it, he also voted “no”. Ms. Ciccolo will present the article.
71-127
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 22, 2017
Update—Zoning Articles for ATM 2017—Planning Board to join Board of Selectmen’s Meeting
Before moving on to the Article reviews, it was determined that the next joint meeting of the
Planning Board and Board of Selectmen would take place Wednesday, March 29 at 8:00 a.m.
The Selectmen’s office will post the meeting.
Planning Board members Mr. Canale, Mr. Hornig, Ms. Corcoran-Ronchetti, Ms. Johnson were
present. Mr. Creech is out of town. Planning Director Henry and Planner Fields were also
present.
Mr. Canale said the board is still working on some of the articles and will have to give Selectmen
“live updates”. Article 46—Medical Marijuana—will come up tonight.
Article 33—Scenic Roads
Mr. Canale and Ms. Ciccolo are both residents of streets under consideration and were therefore
recused.
In Mr. Canale’s absence, Ms. Johnson presented, saying that the Scenic Roads initiative is one of
the follow up steps that came from the 2006 Freedom’s Way Landscape Inventory. It is a way to
document and protect historic roads under Commonwealth General Law, Chapter 40, Section
15c. Scenic Road protection applies only to trees and stone walls in the road’s right of way. The
designation can only be made to roads that are accepted by the Town.
The motion reflects what the regulation would state: in the interest of protecting scenic roads as
designated by the Town, property owners must meet with the Planning Board to review changes
to tree canopy and stone walls within the right of way. Changes are possible but should be done
in a manner sensitive to the historic road. Fines for offenses range from $100 for a first offense
to $300 for third and subsequent offenses.
Ms. Barry asked how a street would become designated. Ms. Johnson said everyone living on the
currently proposed streets has been notified that their street under consideration. Generally,
residents have been supportive, although some residents on Shade St. expressed concern.
Ms. Johnson said in the future, particularly with the Comprehensive Plan, residents will be able
to submit suggestions for the Scenic Roads list. The Planning Board and/or a group of ten
residents can nominate a road that meets eligibility requirements. The Planning Board notifies
abutters when their street becomes a candidate.
Mr. Pato said the list of Scenic Roads in enumerated in the bylaw so the only way the list can
expand is by Town Meeting vote. He said there should be a provision for informing new
residents that their street is a Scenic Road.
Article 34—Blasting Prohibition
71-128
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 22, 2017
Mr. Canale said this article is a continuation of what Planning has done with past residential
policy articles. Recent house building requiring removal of ledge, grading changes, and
excessively high retaining walls has caused resident outcry; the Planning Board has been trying
to address these problems and may return to Town Meeting next year with subsequent articles to
deal with associated development challenges.
Now that the town is almost entirely “built out” and dwellings are close together, particularly in
the RS district, the impact of blasting is excessive and risky, affecting both topography and
subsurface. Ms. Johnson said the motion proposed prohibits blasting unless authorized by the
Board of Selectmen as being “in the public interest” (such as utility projects, public building
construction, etc.)
Ms. Barry asked if Town Counsel has seen the latest version of the motion. Mr. Henry said
Counsel has not seen the motion as it now reads.
Mr. Kelley said he would not like to see blasting removed entirely as an option because it is
sometimes more appropriate than other methods. Regulations that govern blasting, administered
by the Fire Marshall, include important safeguards.
Mr. Pato said the members of the Economic Development Committee unanimously expressed
concern about this article and would prefer that it not go forward. Mr. Pato stated he finds the
language about the public interest to be vague and prone to being read in at least two ways.
Mr. Lucente said his main concern is with what alternate methods might be used in lieu of
blasting.
Mr. Canale said the Planning Board felt constituents were calling for action that would curtail
blasting. He agreed the solution is not easy. He asked if the Selectmen would form a subgroup
with Planning to examine the issues. Ms. Barry said the Board would entertain the request.
David Kanter, Precinct 7 Town Meeting member, said he believed that basing the article on
anything but measurable technical consequences would be too arbitrary. The idea of exempting
municipal projects from a ban is a slippery slope.
Article 40—Amend Zoning Bylaw Special Permit Residential Development
Mr. Canale said this article has taken the most Board time and garnered the most interest from
residents. There are two main ways Planning has now to approve residential development: by
conventional, by-right zoning statutes and by Special Permit. Planning now discourages
conventional, so-called cookie cutter development because it does not make the best use of
remaining developable land. With Special Permit balanced housing (BHD), developers can get a
“density bonus” which is intended to have less of an impact on abutters and town resources.
However, Mr. Canale acknowledged that the BHD process is flawed. Proposals have not been
what the Board envisioned. Planning would like to turn the process around so that developers
71-129
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 22, 2017
work collaboratively with the Board from the beginning of the project, rather than present fully-
conceived plans that the Board then reacts to.
Mr. Canale said increasing the number of smaller units is a goal as well. If more units are
constructed, 11.5% of them would be designated as affordable. The article would allow the
current minimum square footage to be reduced to a smaller number which the Planning Board
hopes will result in the creation of more workforce housing; currently, even the smallest new
construction units are being sold for $1M, beyond the reach of many.
Mr. Canale noted the Board is still discussing how small the footprint can go and how great the
density can be, but they are in agreement with changing the process.
Ms. Ciccolo said she will reserve judgement on the article until she sees the details. In an effort
to save historic homes on properties being developed, she asked that language be considered to
exempt historic homes from the Gross Floor Area equation. Mr. Canale agreed that Planning
wants to preserve stately homes. Ms. Ciccolo said the addition of the word “new” would make
this clarification. Ms. Ciccolo noted there was no mention of interior pathways becoming public
connections. Mr. Canale believes there is general agreement among Planning members that a
phrase should be added so that Planning can designate land as open to the public.
Mr. Kelley asked if BHD was not an option, are there other site-sensitive strategies to encourage
development that achieves Town goals. Mr. Canale said cluster housing is an option but the
advent of Gross Floor Area has complicated that style of development.
Mr. Pato said the proposed article goes in the right direction but he would like to see the
affordable housing factor of 11.5% raised, based on increased density. He questioned the
Minimum Percentage less than 2,700 SF in the Table under Section 6.9.2. Mr. Canale said the
percentage of affordable units in a given subdivision required to be less than 2,700 SF includes
the percentage required to be under 2,100 SF.
Mr. Pato also questioned percentages in the Table that were technically correct but confusing for
the reader to interpret. Mr. Canale said Planning would make this clear.
Article 43—Amend Zoning Bylaw & Zoning Map Amend GC, CM & CRO Districts
Mr. Hornig said Planning is recommending a series of changes to the dimensional controls of the
CRO office district located on Bedford, Hayden, and Spring streets. The biggest change is an
increase to the maximum allowable floor area ratio (FAR) to 0.35 from 0.15 and permitting
variance to the dimensional controls by Special Permit, as allowed now in the Hartwell Ave area.
The Use Table would also be changed to uses allowed on Hartwell and to allow Biotech
Manufacturing by Special Permit.
Minor map changes are also proposed to match parcel boundaries and re-organize orphaned
slivers of land so stray residential parcels are absorbed by the CRO or GC districts.
71-130
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 22, 2017
Two new TMOD overlay districts will also be created—one for the Forbes Road area and one for
the Hayden Road area.
Mr. Pato and Mr. Lucente reported the Economic Development Advisory Committee was in full
support of the provisions of Article 43.
David Kanter, Capital Expenditures Committee, asked if new TMOD funds would flow to the
existing TMOD Stabilization Fund and if the language of the current TMODs would have to be
modified. Mr. Hornig said what happens to the money is defined in the specific TMOD
regulation.
Article 46—Medical Marijuana:
The Planning Board unanimously recommends disapproval of Article 46 in its original form
finds some elements of it to be are valuable. Mr. Hornig says Planning hopes to salvage those
elements by including them in a substitute motion which is essentially identical to the original
motion except that each row of the Use Table is adjusted to match the current zoning allowances
in the CM district (Hartwell and Tracer Lane).
Ms. Barry said the Selectmen have already taken a position, unanimously rejecting Article 46.
Mr. Hornig asked for the Selectmen support of the alternate motion. Mr. Kelley asked if
replacement zoning proposals need to be on record a certain number of days before a Town
Meeting vote. Mr. Hornig said that is the case only for the former RD and CD districts.
Ms. Ciccolo, Ms. Barry, and Mr. Pato supported Planning’s motion. Mr. Kelley said he will
make his decision at Town Meeting but he is generally averse to supporting marijuana-related
articles. Mr. Lucente said he would wait to decide. Ms. Ciccolo will update her presentation on
Selectmen positions at Town Meeting.
The remainder of the articles were deferred to a later time. The Planning Board moved to
adjourn.
Consent Agenda
Approve One-Day Liquor License—LHS Baseball Boosters
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the request
from the Lexington High School Baseball Boosters for a one-day liquor license for the purpose
of a fundraiser to be held at the Lexington Depot at 13 Depot Square, Lexington, MA on April 8,
2017 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Adjourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at 7:12 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert,
Recording Secretary
71-131
Selectmen’s Meeting
March 27, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 6:00 p.m. on Monday,
March 27, 2017 in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Chairman
Barry, Mr. Kelley, Mr. Pato, Ms. Ciccolo and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente,
Town Manager and Ms. Siebert, Recording Secretary.
Selectmen Concerns and Liaison Reports
Ms. Barry made a follow-up statement to Selectman Pato’s comments of March 22, regarding
one of the demographic questions on the Vision 20/20 survey. A question that has caused
concern has been revised based on discussions with representatives from the Chinese American
Association of Lexington (CAAL), Indian Americans of Lexington (IAL), Koreans of Lexington
(KoLex), some members from the 20/20 Committee, the Chairman of the Human Rights
Committee, the Town Manager, and Selectmen Barry and Lucente.
The Board of Selectmen encourage those who have not yet done so to take the survey which is
available on the Town website or in hardcopy form available at the Town Hall, Community
Center, or Library. The paper version of the survey is available in English, Mandarin, and
Korean; the online version is only in English. The deadline to submit responses has been
extended to Friday, April 14.
Update—ATM 2017 Article 18—Appropriate for Visitors Center
Dawn McKenna and Kerry Brandin from the Tourism Committee presented details of Article 18,
stating timing is crucial if the Town is to be prepared for commemorative events in 2020.
Representatives of the Tourism Committee met with members of the Selectmen and Town staff.
Architect Don Mills has been asked to give an estimate of what it would take to bring the project
through the design development phase. Total funds needed for the schematic design phase are
$152,000; $131,000 remains in the Visitors Center account from prior appropriations. Therefore,
the initial phase is $21,000 short. Design development services would cost another $80,000.
Based on these calculations, Article 18 asks Town Meeting to approve a total of $100,000 to
advance the Visitors Center project.
Ms. McKenna said several people have approached her about identifying sources of funding
other than the Town. Some ideas are being floated that may bear fruit but until the project
officially moves forward, such sources cannot be pursued.
Mr. Pato said he believes the $4M building cost is at least two times too high is not inclined to
support Article 18 funding because he would reject a building plan if it remained elaborate.
Ms. Barry said in the context of prioritizing projects and funding, it is difficult to add yet another
capital project to an already challenging list. Ms. Barry said she can support the $21,000 shortage
to get through the exhibit design phase but, beyond that, she is not comfortable giving a green
light to anything that might draw from the debt stabilization fund, as Ms. McKenna suggests.
71-132
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 27, 2017
In response to comments, Ms. McKenna said allowing the schematic portion of the project to
move ahead will provide time to research alternative funding sources. Additional funding would
not be committed until a second approval threshold has been crossed. The Tourism Committee
regrets that architect Mills was not given narrower and more utilitarian guidelines that would
have resulted in a less elaborate building design. The Visitors Center project was put on hold to
make way for other projects and unless the Town recognizes the new Visitors Center as an
investment, it will be easy to keep postponing the project.
Ms. Ciccolo would like the project to go through the schematic design phase with the remaining
appropriated funds. Unless the project is deemed manageable within the context of competing
projects, she cannot guarantee her support after the initial phase.
David Kanter, Town Meeting Member Precinct 7 and Capital Expenditures Committee member,
urged the Board to support the use of the remaining appropriated funds plus the additional
$21,000. He believes addressing overall project costs should be the highest priority. Further
funding approval should rest with Town Meeting once the full scope of the project is known.
John McWeeney, Chairman of Economic Development Advisory Committee, said consensus of
EDAC at a recent meeting was that the Visitors Center project needs to be done and that the
Selectmen should determine the best way to accomplish that goal.
Ms. McKenna will present Article 18 to Capital Expenditures and Appropriation at upcoming
committee meetings. The matter is scheduled to come before Town Meeting on April 12.
Mr. Kanter said Capital Expenditures will want to know the funding source so this information
can be included in the committee report.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 3-2 to support the
requested $100,000 from unallocated funds with the caveat that the project not go beyond the
schematic design phase without re-authorization by the Board of Selectmen. Mr. Pato and Ms.
Barry were the dissenting votes.
Reconsider Common Victualler License for Dunkin’ Donuts—Hours of Operation
When this matter previously came before the Board, there was an unresolved question about
whether the hours on the Common Victualler license mirrored the hours on the Special Permit.
Staff researched the question and found that the hours of operation on the Special Permit are
listed as 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., not 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the hours of
operation for the Common Victualler license to be as written in the Special Permit, 6 a.m. to 10
p.m.
71-133
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 27, 2017
Article Positions & Presenters ATM 2017
Mr. Pato will not attend Town Meeting tonight due to illness. Articles he had been assigned to
present have been re-assigned per an email Ms. Barry sent earlier in the day.
Mr. Lucente declared that he is in support of Article 4 and Article 9.
The Planning Board will move to indefinitely postpone Article 33 Scenic Roads.
Ms. Barry reported the Planning Board will also move to indefinitely postpone Article 34-
Blasting. The Selectmen unanimously supported indefinite postponement.
Positions on Article 41—Revise Definitions: Ciccolo yes; Kelley wait; Barry yes; Pato yes;
Lucente wait.
Article 27—Prior Years’ Unpaid Bills will be indefinitely postponed. The Board was
unanimously in support of indefinite postponement.
Wednesday night’s Town Meeting schedule is Articles 20, 37, 17, 15.
Mr. Lucente and Mr. Kelley both changed their positions on Article 15—Capital School Projects
and Equipment from “wait” to “yes”.
Article 12(o)—Westview Cemetery Building Design : Mr. Lucente remains a “wait.”
Update—ATM 2017 Article 37—Trees
Gerry Paul, Tree Committee, said he and Nancy Sofren met with Mr. Valente and staff and came
to an agreement to make two changes to Article 37.
1)In instances where a large tree must be removed as a requirement of a building permit,
the higher mitigation rate would not apply;
2)A section about maintenance of protected and replanted trees has been deleted to allow
further consideration.
Mr. Valente said Town Counsel is still working with staff to revise the wording of the motion for
Article 37.
Positions on Article 37: Ciccolo yes; Kelley yes; Barry yes; Pato yes; Lucente yes.
Consent Agenda
Water & Sewer Commitments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve water &
sewer commitments February 2017 Cycle 9 for $213,842.67.
71-134
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 27, 2017
Sign Eagle Scout Letters—Peter Ekrem and Thomas Barry
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to sign a letter of
commendation congratulating Peter B. Ekrem and Thomas C. Barry for attaining the highest
rank of Eagle in Boy Scouting.
Approve Minutes & Executive Session Minutes—October 2016
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the minutes
of Budget Summit 1 on October 6, 2016, regular meeting minutes from October 13, 2016 and
October 24, 2016 and a joint meeting with the BOS and Planning Board on October 25, 2016.
Further, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve but not release the Executive Session
minutes of October 13 and October 24, 2016.
Executive Session
Upon motion duly made and by roll call, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to enter into
Executive Session at 6:38 p.m. under Exemption 6 to consider the purchase, exchange, lease or
value of real property 20 Pelham Rd. and to reconvene in open session only to adjourn. Further,
it was declared that an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of
the Town.
Ms. Ciccolo was recused from the Pelham Property discussion.
Adjourn
Upon re-convening in Open Session and upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of
Selectmen voted 4-0 to adjourn at approximately 6:50 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary
71-135
Joint Meeting
Board of Selectmen and Planning Board
March 29, 2017
A joint meeting of the Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board was held on Wednesday,
March 29, 2017, at 8:00 a.m., in Estabrook Hall, Cary Memorial Building. Ms. Barry, Chair;
Mr. Kelley; Mr. Pato; Ms. Ciccolo; and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente, Town
Manager and Ms. Arnold, Recording Secretary.
Also in attendance: Planning Board (PB) members: Mr. Canale, Chair; Ms. Corcoran-Ronchetti;
Mr. Hornig; and Ms. Johnson. Mr. Henry, Planning Director; Mr. Kucharsky, Assistant Planning
Director.
Ms. Barry called the Selectmen’s meeting to order at 8:00 a.m. and introduced the Board
members. Mr. Canale called the Planning Board meeting to order at 8:03 a.m.
Annual Town Meeting (ATM) Warrant Article 44: Brookhaven
Mr. Valente reviewed efforts to develop an agreement between the Town of Lexington and
Brookhaven at Lexington (Brookhaven) that would allow Brookhaven to expand its facilities
while the Town receives increases in Brookhaven’s annual Payment In Lieu Of Taxes (PILOT)
plus an annual affordable housing mitigation payment over the next 15 years. Negotiations
resulted in a compromise that includes a payment schedule, adjustments to be made if
Brookhaven’s tax-exempt status changes, and steps to be taken after the 15 years. Mr. Valente
noted that an approved agreement would be signed by the BOS and Brookhaven, and it is
anticipated that the Planning Board would take a position on the affordable housing portion.
Planning Board and BOS members expressed appreciation for the work that had been done.
Ms. Barry noted that the BOS had received and read written comments sent by residents,
including those who live at Brookhaven.
The Planning Board members expressed general consensus in support of the agreement.
Mr. Canale and Ms. Johnson recognized that the agreement required both sides to adjust their
expectations, while expressing general support for the total package.Ms. Corcoran-Ronchetti
and Mr. Hornig expressed support for the affordable housing component without commenting on
the PILOT.
The BOS members expressed general consensus in support of the agreement, although Mr.
Kelley shared concerns about the affordable housing piece and was not prepared to take a
position at the time. He wants to see tangible efforts that result in increased affordable housing
in the near future. Ms. Kreiger, Chair of the Brookhaven Board of Trustees, thanked the two
Boards on behalf of the Brookhaven Board of Trustees. Mr. Henry expects the agreement to be
finalized by April 12.
Mr. Kanter, Precinct 7 Town Meeting Member, identified four concerns relating to the proposed
agreement:
71-136
Joint Meeting – March 29, 2017
The annual 2.5% percentage increase in the PILOT is less that the increases experienced
by residents and is not adequate.
Spreading the affordable housing mitigation payments over 15 years means the funds
may not be available when they are needed. Also, they may not be adequate to cover the
costs of affordable housing, which are likely to experience inflation-related increases, and
they may not be adequate to cover the cost of borrowing until the funds are available. He
noted that the 2020 census will be used for the next affordable housing calculations,
which could impact Lexington’s current exemption from Chapter 40B housing
development if the Town does not meet the affordable housing threshold that is required
to restrict such development.
Although Brookhaven’s assisted care units are not currently counted as part of
Lexington’s denominator for calculating its percentage of affordable housing, there are
no assurances that this will continue to be accepted practice.Brookhaven plans to add
assisted care units, and the agreement does not include an adjustment should past practice
change so that they are included in the affordable housing calculations.
It is not clear what happens to the agreement if the Article is not supported by ATM; in
that event, the current PILOT should continue.
Warrant Article Update - ATM 2017 - Zoning Articles
ATM Warrant Article 40: Amend Zoning Bylaw—Special Permits Residential Developments
Mr. Canale reported that the Planning Board has not yet reached consensus on this effort to
adjust the current “by right” regulations.
ATM Warrant Article 42: Amend Zoning Bylaw—Two Family Homes
Mr. Canale reported that the Planning Board is close to reaching consensus on this Article, which
is designed to encourage housing diversity by allowing additional two family structures. It is
anticipated that the constraints that are being be included in the Article would result in
minimizing the increase of such housing. Ms. Ciccolo expressed concern about monitoring and
enforcing restrictions. Mr. Henry said that there are mechanisms for monitoring affordable
housing, while monitoring senior housing requires some adjustments. Mr. Kelley reported that
he opposes allowing additional two family homes in Lexington because of monitoring challenges
and because they could change the Town’s character.
ATM Warrant Article 43: Amend Zoning Bylaw—Economic Development Refinements
Mr. Canale reported that two members of the Planning Board support the proposed ATM Motion
that was distributed and two members are requesting modifications. The fifth member is
traveling out of the country. Mr. Canale said that the concern with the current motion is that it
does not address the potential need for a special permit process regarding transportation
mitigation. All of the Selectmen expressed support for the Article’s effort to facilitate the
commercial development process in order to increase the commercial tax base. Mr. Valente
suggested that the Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) be consulted. The
71-137
Joint Meeting – March 29, 2017
EDAC has previously expressed concern that the special permit process is a deterrent to
development.
Adjourn
Upon duly made and seconded motion, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 and the Planning
Board voted 4-0 to adjourn at 9:09 a.m.
A true record; attest:
Sara Arnold
Recording Secretary
71-138
Selectmen’s Meeting
March 29, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 6:03 p.m. on Wednesday,
March 29, 2017 in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Chairman
Barry, Mr. Kelley, Mr. Pato, Ms. Ciccolo and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente,
Town Manager and Ms. Siebert, Recording Secretary.
Public Hearing—Flammable Storage License—113-115 Hartwell Ave
Chairman Barry opened the public hearing at 6:05 p.m.
Mike DiMinico, Senior Director of King St. Properties, presented information and answered
questions about the company’s request for a flammable storage license at 111-115 Hartwell
Avenue. The license is intended to accommodate the needs of new tenant Wave Life Sciences, a
research and development concern involved with preclinical genetic medicine. Wave has signed
a long-term lease for this location.
Mr. DiMinico noted that King St. Properties obtained a Special Permit in 2015 from the Planning
Board for ground-up lab development at 113-115 Hartwell. King Street Properties keeps close
track of tenant flammable use but, until this time, no other tenants of King Street Properties have
exceeded the threshold that would require this form of licensure.
After receiving the license, Wave will review safety and material handling procedures with the
Fire Department and the Building Commissioner (Phase 1) in order to receive a flammable use
permit (Phase II).
Due to its substantial investment in the properties, King Street Properties has retained a team of
consulting engineers to advise on best practices. Mr. DiMinico said his company has met also
with Town staff and answered all questions pertaining to site development.
Assistant Fire Chief John Fleck confirmed Mr. DiMinico’s account and said that his department
has worked with King Street Properties over the last 6 months to meet necessary standards. He
emphasized that the property is not yet built-out and the license is needed so storage areas can be
designed and constructed. Assistant Chief Fleck foresees a 3-to-5-year horizon before the
property is fully functional. Once the Board grants the license, the Fire Department will continue
to work with King St and Wave to ensure compliance with standards. Assistant Chief Fleck
noted that if Shire was on one parcel instead of four, the same licensure would have been
necessary; flammable materials are a normal part of the bio-medical research business.
Mr. Lonardo, Building Commissioner, said King Street Properties needs to be granted this
license in order to obtain a building permit. He sees no impediments to moving forward.
Mr. Lucente asked if the license is subject to periodic review. Assistant Chief Fleck replied that
the registration card must be renewed every April, before which the facility will be inspected to
make sure everything is satisfactory.
71-139
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 29, 2017
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve a
Flammable Storage License for King 113 Hartwell LLC at 113-115 Hartwell Avenue for the
storage, operation, and maintenance for flammable and combustible storage at 113-115 Hartwell
Ave (Lot 5, Plan No. 31330B; Parcel ID: 10509) as presented.
Ms. Barry closed the public hearing at 6:10 p.m.
Discussions ATM 2017—Article 10—Appropriate for the FY2018 Community Preservation
Committee Operating Budget and CPA Project
Mr. Kelley referenced Article 10(d), Judges Road under Community Preservation requests. In
previous discussions, the Selectmen have been unanimous in support of keeping all 16 Judges
Road units affordable. CPC has voted 6-0 in favor of the $1.048M to secure perpetual
affordability.
After the most recent Selectmen deliberations about Judges Road, Mr. Kelley determined it is
wiser to move toward a 100% ownership model rather than keeping the status quo of eleven units
owned and five rented. In order to accomplish that, Mr. Kelley asked that the CPA funding be
released to the control of Selectmen so that the Board can manage the transition.
Ms. Ciccolo clarified that Mr. Kelley means he does not want to have the rental units under the
authority of the LHA. Mr. Kelley concurred, saying the five units would ultimately be purchased
by occupants rather than leased. Then, all 16 residences would contribute uniformly on a
monthly basis to the property’s mortgage and upkeep and the LHA would not become the de
facto “parents” of the property. Further, selling the units would mean the purchase revenue could
replenish dwindling CPA Affordable Housing coffers, putting the Town in a better position to
create/buy additional affordable housing.
Ms. Ciccolo agreed it would be better in the long run if LHA did not become the de facto parent,
as it has for other affordable housing properties.
Ms. Ciccolo asked Mr. Valente if the rental vouchers would stay with the tenant or moved to
another property. Mr. Valente was unsure.
Mr. Kelley contacted Lexington’s RHSO agent Liz Rust about his proposal. She deemed his idea
feasible but said it would add to the immediate complexity of the issue. Mr. Kelley said he does
not want to hold up progress but he thinks his proposal would ultimately be a better arrangement
for the Town.
Mr. Valente said there are three issues to be researched:
First: Under the current Town Meeting proposed, the LHA would own the 5 rental units.
Funding the article as it stands would create a grant that LHS would use to execute the purchase.
Does the LHA have the authority to sell those assets?
71-140
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 29, 2017
Second: If those assets can be sold, where does the revenue go? Would it come back to the
Town or stay with LHA?
Third: Are assets purchased with CPA funds allowed to be sold?
Ms. Barry said CPA is scheduled to come up on Monday, April 3. Mr. Valente will contact
Town Counsel about relevant questions. The matter will come back before the Selectmen on
April 3 prior to Town Meeting that night.
Article Positions & Presenters ATM 2017
Tonight’s articles:
Article 20 –Harbell St. Acceptance. Mr. Kelley will present.
Article 37—Trees has been moved to a later night TBA.
Article 17—Hastings School Replacement Design is on the agenda tonight. Ms. Ciccolo
presents.
Article 15—School Capital Projects. Ms. Barry will present.
Article 16—Public Facilities Capital Projects. Mr. Kelley will present. Ms. Barry indicated the
Capital Expenditures Committee has concerns about three items under Facilities and Site
Improvements.
Mr. Pato voted “yes” across the board on all Article 16 projects.
Time permitting, Town Meeting will return to Article 21—OPEB. Ms. Barry is recused. Mr.
Lucente will present.
Article 16 (j), the Town has reached an agreement with the Scottish Rite to purchase a 20-space
portion of their parking lot for $400,000. As part of that purchase, the Board has asked the
Pelham connection, the sidewalk issue, and the signage issue to be resolved. Mr. Valente said the
Pelham connection is close to agreement; the sidewalk issue is resolved and will be along the
driveway; and the Scottish Rite has agreed the Town can erect a sign on the wall.
Ms. Ciccolo said, out of an abundance of caution, she will recuse on the parking lot question—
Article 16 (j) because of the connection to Pelham Rd.
Mr. Pato said that even if the article passes at Town Meeting, the details can continue to be
deliberated. Ms. Barry, Mr. Pato, Mr. Kelley, and Mr. Lucente voted “yes” on project (j).
Mr. Lucente is a yes on Article 16 (a) through (c), remains a wait on project (d), and is a yes for
projects (e) through (j).
Ms. Ciccolo voted to support Article 16 (b).
71-141
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 29, 2017
Mr. Kelley will wait on Article 16 (a) through (i).
Ms. Ciccolo asked that items for which she is recused be held aside and voted separately.
Article 12—Municipal Capital Projects and Equipment: Mr. Lucente changed his vote on project
(o)—Westview Cemetery—from wait to yes. Ms. Barry will present.
Article 24—Specified Stabilization Funds: Ms. Ciccolo will present.
Article 30—Retirement COLA Base: Ms. Barry is recused. Mr. Lucente will present. Positions:
Kelley yes; Lucente yes; Pato yes; Ciccolo yes.
Article 10—CPA will come up on Monday April 3. Projects (h) and (k) are indefinitely
postponed. Positions: Ms. Ciccolo voted yes on all but (h). Mr. Kelley supported all projects
except (h) on which he voted no. Ms. Barry likewise supported all except (h) on which she voted
to wait. Mr. Pato voted yes on all but project (l) on which he voted to wait. Mr. Lucente voted
yes on all except (h) on which he voted no.
Mr. Valente said that if there is no Selectmen support for item (h)—Stone Building Feasibility
Study—there is no point in moving it on Town Meeting floor.
Mr. Kelley said it is true the Selectmen’s goals have included getting the Stone Building into
working order but he believes a citizens’ committee should be formed to study the matter. The
design work done in 2008 could be a strong starting point for program and design discussions.
Mr. Lucente agreed and added he does not believe that funding will take the project to where it
needs to go any faster than a study group.
Mr. Valente said the proposed funding is to accomplish what he hears Board members saying
they want. Ms. Ciccolo said perhaps the term “feasibility study” is misleading, then, because it
gives the wrong impression of the scope of the project being funded. Even if a citizens’
committee is formed, it is helpful to have staff or a consultant guide the project forward.
Mr. Pato said his understanding was that the next phase would be to hire a consultant to look at
possible market opportunities to attract renters. If this is indeed the next step, the logical choice
would be to expend funds on a consultant rather than form a citizens’ committee.
Mr. Valente said moving forward with the project at Town Meeting would not preclude forming
a citizens’ committee.
With the vote tally two yeses, two noes and one wait, Mr. Valente said the support was not
strong enough to move the article.
Mr. Lucente, Mr. Kelley, and Ms. Ciccolo voted for indefinite postponement. Mr. Pato voted no
on indefinite postponement and yes to the existing request. Ms. Barry voted no for indefinite
postponement. The article will be indefinitely postponed.
71-142
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 29, 2017
Purchase of Real Estate—Review and Authorize Town Manager to Sign Purchase and Sale
Agreement for 20 Pelham Road Property
Ms. Ciccolo recused herself due to conflict of interest.
Mr. Valente said the Town has completed its negotiation with the Armenian Sisters for the
purchase and sale of 20 Pelham Rd. The Selectmen reviewed a copy of the document at an
earlier meeting.
Since this is the first time the issue is being discussed in open session, Mr. Valente highlighted
several items:
The purchase price is $7.95M; the appropriation at Town Meeting for the purchase was
$8M;
The due diligence window was 3 weeks long, ending March 31. The site survey and
phase one environmental survey have been completed;
The closing is scheduled for April 19;
The Town has agreed to buy the property “as is” with known the defects of asbestos and
PCB, which must be removed.
Negotiations to purchase the property included reimbursement of $75,000 for underground oil
tank removal and cleaning the building of furnishings, academic materials, etc. Mr. Valente will
ask the Board on April 3 for authorization to request a reserve fund transfer from Appropriations
for $75,000.
Rose Zhao, 41 Bloomfield St., asked if the Town has the budget to fix up the property. As a
statistician and a realtor, she asked if the Town has done a forecast of the need for Special
Education facilities. Ms. Barry said the forecast question would be better directed to the School
Committee, however 20 Pelham has been determined by the School Committee as the best place
to house the LCP program. Design funds have been approved by Town Meeting for the Pelham
site. The renovation project costs have yet to be fully determined.
Ms. Zhao said she would want to know the exact cost of renovations before purchasing the
property. She has not heard any forecasts about how many children the LCP program is expected
to serve in the future. Ms. Barry said the School Committee’s enrollment working group has
determined that Pelham will satisfy LCPs needs for at least five years.
Ms. Zhao believes the projection for school age children is flat. Mr. Pato, a member of the
enrollment working group, replied that Lexington’s school age population is projected to grow at
2% a year for at least the next five years as it has done for the past six years. The LCP move to
Pelham in not only to accommodate Lexington’s pre-school students with special needs but also
to vacate space at Harrington School for regular ed. There are several documents such as the
Enrollment Master Plan and the Capital Plan that can be accessed for further information.
Ms. Barry thanked Ms. Zhao for expressing her opinion and encouraged her to reach out to the
School Committee and access the information Mr. Pato cited.
71-143
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 29, 2017
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to authorize the Town
Manager with respect to 20 Pelham Rd., Lexington, Massachusetts (the “Property”), to enter into
a purchase and sale agreement for the Town’s acquisition of the property in substantially the
form presented to the Board at its March 29, 2017 meeting, with final changes to be approved by
the Town Manager in consultation with Town Counsel as reasonably necessary (the “Purchase
and Sale Agreement”); and to authorize the Town Manager to take all actions on behalf of the
Town that are reasonably necessary, in the judgement of the Town Manager, to complete the
purchase of the Property in accordance with the Purchase and Sale Agreement, including without
limitation delivering closing funds and signing deeds. Deed restrictions, closing forms, closing
documents, letters, and settlement statements.
Ms. Ciccolo rejoined the meeting.
Consent Agenda
Approve and Sign Proclamations
National Library Week—April 9-15, 2017
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve and sign the
National Library Week Proclamation for the dates specified.
National Public Safety Telecommunications Week—April 9-15, 2017
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve and sign the
National Public Safety Telecommunications Week Proclamation for the date specified.
Arbor Day—Friday, April 28, 2017
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve and sign the
Arbor Day Proclamation for the dates specified.
Approve One-Day Liquor License—Hindu Holi Festival
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the request
by Thakali Samaj Boston for a one-day alcohol license for the purpose of a Hindu/Holi Festival
Fundraiser to be held at St. Brigid Parish Center Hall, 1955 Mass Ave., Lexington, MA on April
1, 2017 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Executive Session—Exemption 6: Update Belmont Country Club
Upon motion duly made and by roll call, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to enter into
Executive Session at 7:03 p.m. under Exemption 6 to consider the purchase, exchange, lease or
value of real property Belmont Country Club and to reconvene in open session only to adjourn.
Further, it was declared that an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating
position of the Town.
71-144
Selectmen’s Meeting – March 29, 2017
Adjourn
Upon re-convening in Open Session and upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of
Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at approximately 7:10 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary