HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-04-BOS-min
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Selectmen’s Meeting
April 3, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 6:02 p.m. on Monday,
April 3, 2017 in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Ms. Barry, Chair;
Mr. Kelley, Mr. Pato, Ms. Ciccolo and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente, Town
Manager and Ms. Siebert, Recording Secretary.
Ms. Barry made comments on behalf of the Board:
The Board was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of State Senator Ken Donnelly. Senator
Donnelly started his career as a Lexington firefighter, where he worked for over 35 years,
retiring from the department with the rank of Lieutenant. He was born in Cambridge and raised
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his family in Arlington, living and serving for over 55 years in the 4 Middlesex District.
Senator Donnelly was well respected for his dedication, compassion, vigorous leadership, and
approachability. He was a tremendous advocate for Lexington and the district. He will be deeply
missed by family, friends, colleagues, and constituents. Senator Donnelly’s wake is scheduled
for Friday afternoon, April 7, at Arlington Town Hall and his funeral service will be Saturday,
April 8, at St. Eulalia in Winchester.
Ms. Barry reported with sadness that Lexington centenarian Aurio Pierro, a lifelong resident,
died early this morning. A proclamation was signed by the Board last month in honor of Mr.
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Pierro’s 100 birthday.
Mr. Kelley proposed that the Battle Green flag be lowered in honor of Mr. Pierro on Thursday,
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April 6, the day of his funeral.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to lower the flag on the
Battle Green on Thursday, April 6, 2017, in honor of Aurio Pierro and his dedication to the
Town.
Mr. Valente added that Governor Baker has asked flags to be lowered to mark Senator
Donnelly’s passing, starting today through Saturday, the date of his funeral.
Selectman Concerns and Liaison Reports
Ms. Barry noted that the assignment of Minuteman High School liaison was omitted from a
recent discussion. Mr. Kelley and Mr. Cohen had been the point people; Mr. Pato is interested in
replacing Mr. Cohen. Board members agreed. Mr. Pato and Mr. Kelley will attend the
upcoming Minuteman High School Committee meeting this Thursday morning at 7:30 a.m.
Noise By-law Public Hearing—Patriots’ Day Preparations
Ms. Barry called the Public Hearing to order at 6:09 p.m.
Mr. Pinsonneault, DPW Director, requested a Special Permit to begin Patriots’ Day event site
preparations, starting at 5:00 a.m. on April 10 and ending April 14. A start time earlier then 7
a.m. is necessary due to increased pedestrian and vehicular traffic in the later morning hours. The
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work area covers the length of Bedford Street from the DPW building to the intersection of
Massachusetts Ave. and Woburn Street. The work includes cleaning roadways, sidewalks, and
other tasks. Abutters and close neighbors have been notified by mail. An announcement has
appeared in the Lexington Minuteman for two weeks, as required by the bylaw.
Mr. Pato asked if the DPW has looked into the use of quieter, electricity-powered landscaping
devices. Mr. Pinsonnault said his department has been researching machinery with lower decibel
output and is hoping to try out some demo units before purchasing. In the interim, the Town has
procured several noise-reduced gas-powered leaf blowers.
Dawn McKenna, 9 Hancock St, said although she does not like early morning noise, she
appreciates the DPW’s efforts to prepare for Patriots’ Day. As an abutter, Ms. McKenna deems
the inconvenience “unique and necessary”.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to grant a Noise Bylaw
Special Permit to the Lexington Department of Public Works to carry out Patriots’ Day
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preparation tasks beginning 5:00 a.m. from Monday, April 10 through Friday, April 14, 2017.
Ms. Barry closed the Public Hearing at 6:13 p.m.
Approve Reserve Fund Transfer Request—20 Pelham Road Building Mitigation
Ms. Ciccolo was recused from the discussion due to a conflict of interest.
Mr. Valente asked the Board to approve a request for a reserve fund transfer of $75,000 to cover
mitigation work done by previous owners, the Armenian Sisters.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to approve and
authorize the Chairman to sign a Reserve Fund Transfer request for $75,000 to reimburse the
Armenian Sisters for their expenses to remove the building’s underground oil tank and dispose of
educational materials and supplies from the building, prior to the Town’s purchase.
The Town Manager will present this request to the Appropriation Committee.
Article Positions & Presenters ATM 2017
Article 19—Getting to Net Zero: Mr. Pato presents. Mr. Lucente changed his vote from “wait” to
“yes.”
Article 18—Visitors Center: Mr. Kelley will present. Ms. Barry said Ms. Hai from Capital
Expenditures intends to amend the main motion for the article by replacing $100,000 with
$21,000. This would allow the project to advance through the schematic design phase only.
Ms. Ciccolo asked if there would be an opportunity at the fall STM to include an article for the
additional funding if the Selectmen were satisfied with the results of the first phase. Mr. Valente
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said the Facilities department workload is such that it does not appear the schematic design
would be completed in time for fall Town Meeting consideration.
Mr. Kelley encouraged the Selectmen to continue their support for the $100,000 request, given
that funds will be released in a structured, deliberate way. By ATM 2018, the design
development should be advanced enough to consider construction funding.
Mr. Valente said Facilities and the architect believe they can have the design ready by late fall.
Selectmen positions: Ms. Barry can support Ms. Hai’s amendment; Mr. Pato does not see the
project as requiring support at this time, particularly with over-extended staff; Mr. Lucente
supports the full $100,000, especially with Selectmen control: Ms. Ciccolo is concerned about
the Board’s lack of unanimity on the project and about taxpayer debt fatigue. She is leaning
toward the Capital Expenditures Committee amendment. Mr. Kelley supports the full $100,000.
Article 16(d)—Public Facilities Capital: Mr. Kelley presents. Mr. Kanter, Capital Expenditures
Committee, has submitted an amendment to the motion, specifying how much funding each part
of the bundled project will receive.
Mr. Valente explained the background of the article, saying that in the past few years, Facilities
has combined several projects into one “site improvement” request because project costs can
vary slightly up or down and a bundled total can be used fluidly.
Board positions on the substitute motion: Ciccolo no; Kelley no; Barry no; Pato no; Lucente no.
Article 2: Community Preservation Committee report
Article 10—CPC 2018 Budget and Projects: Ms. Barry will present (h).
Zoning articles
More discussion was anticipated about these articles but there has been no additional information
from the Planning Board.
Article 43—Economic Development Refinements
Mr. Valente noted two memos in reference to Article 43: one from Economic Development
Officer, Melisa Tintocalis, one from John McWeeney, Chair of the Economic Development
Advisory Committee.
Mr. McWeeney said if the article passes, regulatory hurdles will be lowered or removed, making
it easier for commercial development to happen by right rather than through the special
permitting process.
Ms. Tintocalis said her memo was intended to further the understanding of certain key points,
such as increasing the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) in the Commercial district, inclusion of fast
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food/quick service amenities, creation of new Transportation Overlay Districts,
streamlining/elimination of the special permitting process, and the potential to add another $1M
in annual tax revenue.
Referring to an analysis done in 2008 by the Cecil Group of what Lexington’s commercial build
out could be, Ms. Tintocalis said the resulting recommendation was to consider a 0.9 FAR in
order to unlock development potential. Doing so would make it cost effective to provide
structured parking and make it feasible to tear down/redevelop commercial property. The result
of a .35 FAR would be a spreading out of surface parking, anathema to what the Town desires.
Three primary properties would be significantly affected by the change to FAR: 2 Forbes Rd
(132,400 SF); 3 Forbes Rd (49,400 SF); and 181-201 Springs Rd (135,000 SF).
Mr. Kelley asked if a Special Permit would be required for an increase to .35 FAR for an existing
property. Ms. Tintocalis said, if Article 43 is approved, businesses could move to a .35 FAR by
right. The transportation trip wire triggered when intersections are affected by vehicle trip
demands would remain, regardless of the fate of Article 43. But, the same type of transportation
overlay currently in the Hartwell Avenue area would be applied to Forbes and Hayden areas. The
overlay payment (cost per dollar) for Forbes and Hartwell has not been established because it
would be tied to a plan that has not yet been developed. Ms. Tintocalis will get back to the Board
with additional information.
Mr. Kelley said businesses will not invest now if they believe the FAR will again be increased in
the near future. He asked if it is true that businesses could apply to the Planning Board for a
higher density FAR via Special Permit. Ms. Tintocalis concurred this was indeed the case. She
recommends an FAR of 0.9, although she acknowledged the change was possibly more than the
community is ready for without additional vetting.
Mr. Pato said he believes increasing what can be done by right to 0.9 is the probable outcome
over time. In the meantime, he is comfortable with article as it stands.
Mr. Valente said the Planning Board is meeting tonight about the article before Town Meeting is
called to order. At the moment, they are split 2 to 2 on going so far as .35. If they do not pass it,
the ratio would remain .15 FAR; most of the buildings in the CRO already exceed that ratio.
Article 43 will be taken up at Town Meeting on April 12.
Ms. Barry asked the Selectmen what feedback they would like provided to the Planning Board.
Mr. Kelley said he wants to get their attention by supporting the more radical 0.9 FAR. Mr. Pato
stated he would also like a 0.9 FAR but is willing to accept a minimum of .35. Ms. Barry asked if
her colleagues were comfortable sending the message about increased density. Mr. Pato and Mr.
Kelley agreed. Mr. Lucente said he would support .35 as a minimum, but would prefer more.
Ms. Ciccolo said it might help Planning to have some visual sense to offer Town Meeting of the
different FARs. Mr. Lucente agreed, adding it would be helpful to give examples of buildings
that already exceed the current FAR.
Article 44—Brookhaven: No update.
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Article 45—Balanced Housing (Citizen’s Article): no further update.
Article 10 —CPA Articles
Board positions remaining to be determined:
Article 10 (i): Munroe School Window Restoration: Ciccolo yes; Kelley yes; Barry yes; Pato
yes; Lucente yes.
Article 10 (l): Athletic Fields: Mr. Pato will continue to wait to hear the presentation.
Article 10 (m): Town Pool Restoration: Mr. Valente said the Town bids on the estimated $1.026
all came in over $2M. He would like to postpone voting the article at Town Meeting tonight and
discuss what to do with CPC. The moderator will remove 10 (m) from tonight’s proceedings.
Article 10 (n): Park and Playground Improvements: Ciccolo yes; Kelley yes; Barry yes; Pato yes;
Lucente yes.
Articles 10 (o) and 10 (p) are on the Consent Agenda.
Mr. Kelley asked if the motion for Article 10 (d) Judges Way would be amended, given the
Selectmen’s decision to make all the units ownership-based. Mr. Valente said there is no
limitation inherent in the wording of the motion. When the deed restriction is crafted with the
Housing Authority, language will be included to achieve the full ownership model. However, the
Board has not yet worked this out with LHA. Mr. Kelley said as long as the Town acts in
compliance with the article, his concerns are allayed.
Article 37—Amend Tree By-law
After the last Article 37 presentation, staff met with Town Counsel and representatives of the
Tree Committee. Counsel had concerns about the four times calculation for replacement of 24+
inch diameter protected trees. The Tree Committee has now changed the replacement multiplier
to two times the inches removed. Counsel also said the replacement table should be in the body
of the bylaw rather than standing alone.
Ms. Sofen and Mr. Paul from the Tree Committee said that another concern requires more study.
On this subject, Mr. Pinsonneault suggested a one-to-one mitigation/replacement for some trees
would be appropriate rather than two-to-one. He suspects the problem might be with how the
bylaw amendment is worded.
Mr. Kelley agreed the concern was with the wording: the way the revision is inserted removes
mitigation all together if the tree cutting is mandated by the Town. Ms. Sofen agreed with Mr.
Kelley’s assessment.
Ms. Barry said the Moderator might agree to put off the article until April 12 if the Committee is
close to resolving the issue. Otherwise, it could be indefinitely postponed. Mr. Paul said the
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Committee would like to move ahead on the all the revisions except this one which it will study
and bring forward again next year. Mr. Pinsonneault said staff prefers that the section be
modified but that it stays in the bylaw to reflect application to larger trees. Staff agrees that not
all trees be exempted.
Ms. Sofen said the revision would be acceptable if the phrasing from the exemption was included
in the Table. It could be evaluated in application and modified next year if necessary.
Ms. Barry said the issue seemed close to resolution but the mechanics of the article are still
confused. Mr. Pato said the Level I specifications should include language about permit
compliance.
Mr. Kelley said the Town wants mitigation no matter why the tree is being removed. If the
removal has relevance to the permit, the mitigation ratio is one-to-one. If the removal is for
reasons other than permit compliance, the mitigation is two-to-one. Ms. Sofen concurred.
Mr. Lucente said the issue was now clear and he can support it. He advised doing whatever can
be done to make it clear at Town Meeting.
Mr. Valente said he and Town Counsel will work on the wording and forward a new draft to Mr.
Paul and Ms. Sofen. Once the Tree Committee approves the new language, the revision will be
posted on the Town Meeting website.
Article 28—Amend 2017 Operating Budget
Mr. Valente said the minor revisions recommended by Town Counsel constitute no substantive
change:
One change is a $7,000 one-for-one transfer from DPW Expenses to DPW Personal Services to
appropriately account for UMass engineering student stormwater management assistance.
The second change is a fiscal year accounting adjustment for MWRA Water Assessment from
$7,349,661 to $7,377,061 due to how Burlington summer water purchase payment was applied.
Selectmen positions on Article 28: Ciccolo yes: Kelley yes; Barry yes; Pato yes; Lucente yes.
Article 29—Amend Prior Capital Articles
The Selectmen unanimously support indefinite postponement.
Consent Agenda
Approve One-Day Liquor Licenses—Spectacle Management
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve one-day
liquor licenses to Spectacle Management for concerts/events at Cary Memorial Hall, 1605
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Massachusetts Avenue on the following dates/times: April 9, 2017: Lori McKenna 7:00 p.m. to
10:00 p.m.; April 20, 2017: Del and Dawg 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Rachel Dratch 8:00 p.m.
until 11:00 p.m.; April 27, 2017 Melissa Etheridge 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.; and April 28, 2017
Branford Marsalis 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Water & Sewer Adjustments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve water and
sewer adjustments as recommended by WSAB 3/16/17 of ($35,377.97).
Adjourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at 7:13 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary
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Selectmen’s Meeting
April 5, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday,
April 5, 2017 in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Ms. Barry, Chair;
Mr. Kelley; Mr. Pato; Ms. Ciccolo; and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente, Town
Manager; and Ms. Katzenback Assistant to the Executive Clerk.
Also present was Mr. Sandeen, Chairman Sustainable Lexington Committee
Selectmen Concerns and Liaison Report
Mr. Kelly announced the Town of Lexington and HKT Architects were the recipient of the 2017
Richard Bechtel Design Award in recognition for use of best practices in the design and
construction of the Department of Public Works Building project.
Mr. Pato stated the Communication Advisory Committee (CAC) will hold a public hearing at the
end of April to review the renewal of the LexMedia contract. Mr. Pato said the CAC and
LexMedia will come in front of the Board of Selectmen on May 22 to review the contract terms.
Ms. Ciccolo said the Transportation Advisory Committee is reviewing the changes that are being
proposed for the MBTA Bus routes noting the changes are driven by safety concerns.
Town Manager Report
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Mr. Valente noted that the Parklet project came in 2 place as a contender for the 2017 Bechtel
Award.
Update - Sustainable Design Policy
Mr. Sandeen stated that the Sustainable Lexington Committee has been working with the Public
Facilities Department, the Permanent Building Committee and the Energy Conservation
Committee in evaluating building design performance standards for health, energy and
resilience. Mr. Sandeen provided a summary of the sustainable building principles that have
been reviewed and recommended for the design, construction and operation of Town facilities.
He cited the importance of incorporating Stakeholders from onset of the project so informed
decisions about the optimal design for each specific project can be made early on. The
Sustainable Lexington Committee submitted an updated Sustainable Design Policy draft to the
Board of Selectmen for review.
Authorize Town Manager to Enter Into Lease and Related Agreements with Syncarpha-
Lexington LLC, for Hartwell Solar Site
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to authorize the Town
Manager to enter into a lease with Syncarpha Lexington LLC for the installation, operation and
maintenance of a solar system on portions of the Town’s Landfill at 60 Hartwell Avenue.
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Review Draft Memorandum of Agreement with Brookhaven for PILOT and
Affordable Housing Mitigation Payments
Mr. Valente noted Brookhaven submitted concerns regarding this draft of the Memorandum of
Agreement (MOA) specifically related to the wording of the PILOT after 15 year payment
schedule and the calculation of assisted care units as deemed by the Census. The Board of
Selectmen stated they were not in favor of Brookhaven’s request to include arbitration in the
agreement language regarding the PILOT. General Board discussion ensued regarding the
Census and the calculation of the subsidized inventory denominator.
Mr. Valente said a revised MOA will be brought forth to the Board of Selectmen after meeting
with Brookhaven.
Bill Dailey, representing Brookhaven, conveyed that Brookhaven would like the MOA to state
good faith negotiation would take place at the end of the 15 year PILOT payment schedule. Mr.
Daily also asked that noise testing and abatement be governed by the Town Bylaw.
Jim Freeling, CEO of Brookhaven, said the assisted care units should be deemed exempt from
affordable housing since these units are provided nursing around the clock and are group quarters
which do not have kitchens.
Article Positions & Presenters ATM 2017
Ms. Barry asked what the Board position is on Article 43 Amend Zoning Bylaw – Economic
Development Refinements; Article 37 Amend General Bylaws – Trees. The Board stated they
would IP Article 43 if necessary and voted yes to Article 37.
Adjournment
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at
approximately 7:20 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Katzenback
Assistant to the Executive Clerk
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Selectmen’s Meeting
April 12, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 6:02 p.m. on Wednesday,
April 12, 2017 in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Ms. Barry,
Chair; Mr. Kelley; Mr. Pato; Ms. Ciccolo; and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente,
Town Manager; and Ms. Katzenback, Assistant to the Executive Clerk.
Selectman Concerns and Liaison Reports
Ms. Ciccolo stated she spoke at a venue regarding legislation for CPA funding and a venue
regarding Green Communities Act grants.
Ms. Barry reminded everyone of the upcoming Patriots Day Celebration weekend which
includes a full schedule of events.
Mr. Pato reported members of the Board participated in the Let’s Play Holi cultural event and
visited the Douglas House, assisted living facility, for an overview of the wellness programs
offered to their brain injured residents.
Approve Parklet on Massachusetts Avenue
Mr. Valente noted that for the past three years Lexington has set up a public parklet on
Massachusetts Ave.The public parklet is an area for outdoor seating for approximately 15 people
and bike parking for up to 18 bicycles created by converting two vehicle parking spaces on
Massachusetts Avenue, near the Ride Studio Cafe, into a mini-park.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to authorize the
installation of the Massachusetts Avenue parklet from the first week of May to the last week of
October, in two parking spaces in the vicinity of the Ride Studio Cafe.
Amend Charge: Housing Partnership Committee
This item was tabled and will be brought forth at a future meeting.
Discovery Day Discussion
Ms. Barry asked if the Board would like to participate and host a booth at Discovery Day being
held on Saturday, May 27, 2017.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to participate in the
2017 Discovery Day program.
Approve and Sign Letter to MBTA RE: RIDE Premium Service Area.
Ms. Barry noted the Board of Selectmen have been asked join the Transportation Advisory
Committee in opposition to the proposed elimination of the RIDE's Premium Service Area.
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Selectmen’s Meeting – April 12, 2017
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 approve and sign a
letter to the MBTA opposing the MBTA's proposed elimination of the RIDE's Premium Service
Area.
Review Memorandum of Agreement with Brookhaven for PILOT and Affordable Housing
Mitigation Payments
Mr. Valente stated there is a revised Brookhaven Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for
consideration and noted there is an open item for discussion regarding the section in the MOA
regarding affordable housing mitigation.
Mr. Jim Freeling, CEO of Brookhaven, stated they do not feel the assisted care units should not
be counted towards affordable housing since they are group quarters.Mr. Freeling emphasized
that the assisted care units are different than assisted living units and expressed concerned that
the future census will accurately count the units.
General Board discussion ensued. The Board agreed that the affordable housing mitigation
section of the MOA should be modified and clarify that the assisted care units will not include
full kitchens. The Board agreed to the concept of the MOA as part of Article 44 of the 2017
Annual Town Meeting.
David Kanter, precinct 7, conveyed he feels that the PILOT is not proportionately increased with
the extent of the change that is being made to the Brookhaven facility. Mr. Kanter expressed
concern about affordable housing mitigation.
Selectmen Committee Appointment/Reappointment
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to reappoint Anderson
and Kreiger, represented by William L. Lahey, as Town Counsel for Lexington for a term to
expire March 31, 2018.
Article Positions & Presenters ATM 2017
Board of Selectmen agreed to refer back to the Planning Board Article 40 Amend Zoning Bylaw
- Special Permit Residential Developments and Article 45 Amend Zoning Bylaw - Balanced
Housing Developments (Citizen Article).
In regards to Article 42 Amend Zoning Bylaw – Two-Family Homes, the Board noted they need
to see information from the Planning Board in order to take a position.
Ms. Battite, Director of Recreation and Community Programs provided a brief update the of the
Town Pool renovation. The Board of Selectmen agreed to support the revised figure for Article
10m Town Pool Renovation for Town Meeting.
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Consent Agenda
Approve and Sign 2017 Minuteman Cane Award Proclamation
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the signing of
the 2017 Minuteman Cane Award proclamation honoring Sophia Ho.
Sign 2017 Outstanding Youth of Lexington Awards
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the signing of
the 2017 Outstanding Youth of Lexington Award proclamation honoring Emily Zhang.
Approve Town Manager's Vacation Request
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the Town
Manager request for vacation dates as follows: May 10-12; August 21-25; August 29 (or 30) -
September 2, 2017
Adjourn
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at 7:20 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Katzenback
Assistant to the Executive Clerk
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Selectmen’s Meeting
April 24, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 6:02 p.m. on Monday,
April 24, 2017 in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Ms. Barry,
Chair; Mr. Kelley; Mr. Pato; Ms. Ciccolo; and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente,
Town Manager; Ms. McIntosh, Executive Clerk; and Ms. Siebert, Recording Secretary.
Selectman Concerns and Liaison Reports
Ms. Barry extended the Board’s gratitude to the Town Celebrations Committee for this year’s
Patriots’ Day events. Ms. Barry acknowledged the Lexington Minuteman Company and His
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Majesty’s 10 Regiment of Foot for the battle re-enactment, and praised all Town departments
for yet another successful commemoration.
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Mr. Pato reminded the Board and the public that on Thursday, April 27 at 6:30 p.m., the
Communications Advisory Committee (CAC) will hold a Public Hearing to solicit comments
regarding LexMedia’s performance over three past three years. The CAC will gather input and
send comments to the Selectmen for consideration during the upcoming PEG access contract
renewal.
Reorganization of the Board
Ms. McIntosh, Executive Clerk, opened the floor for nominations for Chair of the Board of
Selectmen. Mr. Kelley moved to nominate Suzy Barry to serve for the next year. Mr. Lucente
seconded.
As no other nominations were forthcoming, Ms. McIntosh closed the floor. The vote was 5-0 in
favor of the motion. Ms. McIntosh declared Ms. Barry the duly-elected Chair.
Ms. McIntosh opened the floor for nominations for Vice Chair. Ms. Barry nominated Michelle
Ciccolo to serve for the coming year. As no other nominations were forthcoming, Ms. McIntosh
closed the floor and took the vote. Ms. Ciccolo was declared Vice Chair by a vote of 5-0.
Ms. McIntosh exited the meeting at the conclusion of the election.
Amend Committee Charges
Lexington Housing Partnership Committee
The Lexington Housing Partnership Committee (LHPC) has requested that their committee
composition be changed to nine voting members and six liaisons. Further, the Committee
requested that the LexHAB representative be changed from Voting Member to Liaison and the
Council on Aging representative be changed from Liaison to Voting Member.
Revisions to the “Responsibilities” section of LHPC’s charge have been made to accurately
reflect the Committee’s current activities. The section now reads:
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1.Identify local, state, and federal housing resources available to the Town and to residents
seeking affordable housing;
2.Advocate for land use regulations and zoning bylaws to increase affordable housing
stock;
3.Develop and modify affordable housing strategies based on the Planning Board’s
Comprehensive Plan;
4.Increase public awareness through public information and forums;
5.Assist with land or properties acquisition suitable for development of affordable housing;
6.Make recommendations on particular housing proposals;
7.Advise the Selectmen and Planning Board to aid in their decision-making process.
Ms. Barry noted that now-retired Assistant Town Manager Linda Vine worked on these changes
with Melinda Walker, Chair of LHPC. Ms. Walker was present in audience to field questions.
Fund for Lexington
The Fund for Lexington has requested an increase in membership to a non-even number—from 6
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to 7—with the 7 member defined as a Community Member.
Policy Manual Committee
The Board of Selectmen previously decided to add a second Selectmen to the Policy Manual
Committee. This addition increases membership from 6 to 7.
Mr. Pato noted the length of term indicated for Policy Manual Committee members is “until
dissolved.” He recommended the term be more specified, perhaps two or three years.
The Selectmen reached consensus to change the length of term to two years’ duration.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to amend the charges
of the Lexington Housing Partnership Committee, Fund for Lexington, and Policy Manual
Committee as described and as revised.
Minuteman Statue Restoration
Mr. Pinsonneault, DPW Director, reported that the Town has not been able to find a suitable
conservator to perform the work as approved by the Selectmen in the John Parker statue and
Minuteman Memorial. He asked the Selectmen to reconsider the restoration treatment that was
chosen, and choose conservation treatment more along the lines of what Daedalus Consulting
recommended so as to keep the repair, cleaning, and restoration schedule on track.
Mr. Kelley said he does agree that cleaning the statue and filling the seams is necessary.
Mr. Pato recommended the Town take time to either find a conservator that will do the work as
chosen or determine another course of action.
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Mr. Pinsonneault said the waxing option would not disturb the statue material, although repeated
deep cleaning could cause damage over time. The wax is for preservation.
Ms. Ciccolo said a number of people have approached her to say they believe that the
Selectmen’s decision was incorrect and that the more responsible way to proceed was to follow
Daedalus’ recommendations. Ms. Barry said she had also had similar conversations with
residents, including members of the Monuments and Memorials Committee who submitted a
lengthy report.
Mr. Pinsonneault said the statue would only be touched up to refresh the spots that had
blackened. He believes this procedure is the same technique used the last time the statue had
work done, although he was not in his present job when that occurred.
Given this information, Ms. Ciccolo said she is comfortable accepting Daedalus’
recommendation and moving ahead in that manner and believes postponing repair work any
longer is risky.
Mr. Pato he would like to have time to revisit the two strategies.
Mr. Pinsonneault reiterated that he has not been able to find a conservator to execute the chosen
treatment. Because of the nature of the statue—what it means and what it entails—none of the
companies the DPW or the Historical Society reached out to would agree to use that method.
David Kanter, Precinct 7 Town Meeting member, said he was astonished at the way this process
was unfolding. Dr. Michael Evans, a metallurgist who provided the assessment that altered the
Board’s opinion, has not been contacted following the decision as he expected to be. Mr. Kanter
feels the argument now being presented is one-sided. The Town has made no attempt to involve
Dr. Evans, who might be able to identify conservators. He hopes the Board will rectify the
situation and involve Dr. Evans before deciding to abandon his recommendations. Mr. Kanter
does agree, however—as did Dr. Evans— that cleaning and repairing the statue is necessary, no
matter which surface treatment option is chosen.
Dawn McKenna, Chair of the Tourism Committee, said the Battle Green Master Plan included a
review of the statue. Her understanding is there was no problem with the statue’s base.
Ms. Barry said the Selectmen have been asked to vote tonight on how to proceed. The DPW is
looking at the end of August to execute the work.
The Board is of the opinion that the statue needs to be both cleaned and repaired. Members also
agreed that the statue keep its green color.
Ms. Barry said she is ready to vote in favor of the Daedalus treatment as recommended by the
Monuments and Memorials Committee, the Historical Society, and various interested citizens.
Ms. Ciccolo voted similarly. Mr. Kelley said he believes the Board needs to wait for both sides
of the story. Mr. Pato is not ready to vote. Mr. Lucente said he, too, is not ready to vote. He
agrees there is an imperative to do the cleaning and repair work, however.
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Mr. Pinsonneault said no conservator has been willing to take on the cleaning and repairing work
without assurance that the treatment will be up to their standards.
Mr. Pato asked what the prognosis for the statue is. Mr. Pinsonnault said if the work waits
another year, there is the potential for more problems.
Mr. Kanter strongly suggested Dr. Evans be consulted. Ms. McKenna said the window of time to
shoot for is from the end of August until a week or so after Labor Day.
Ms. Barry asked that the matter return to the Board either Monday May 1 or Monday May 8.
Consider Outdoor Seating, Grain Mill Alley and Visitors Center
Melisa Tintocalis, Economic Development Director, asked the Selectmen to consider approval of
seasonal outdoor seating for two distinct locations: in front of the Visitors Center and in the
public right of way on Mass Ave at the intersection of Grain Mill Alley. The recommendation
comes out of a Center Committee initiative to “activate the space” and create a more welcoming
presence into the entryway of the Visitors Center.
Ms. Barry asked Ms. Tintocalis to describe the steps moving forward. Ms. Tintocalis said the
proposal before the Selectmen is for a 45-day temporary installation under Historic District
Commission rules. Anything longer would require a “certificate of appropriateness.” There will
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be an informal hearing on May 4 with the HDC at which Ms. Tintocalis will request feedback
for the certificate application. Ms. Barry asked Ms. Tintocalis to reach out to the abutting
businesses.
Dawn McKenna, Tourism Committee Chair, said she had not heard before this that the seating
would return to the area in front of the Visitors Center. She hoped this kind of seating will
eventually replace the picnic tables currently there which are not in keeping with the Battle
Green Master Plan. She would, however, oppose putting table umbrellas out as those, too, are
anathema to the Plan.
Avram Baskin, 43 Carville Avenue, said he is upset that anyone would complain about children
and parents having a good time at the Grain Mill Alley installation. He supports the seating.
Innessa Manning, 48 York St, is a member of the Lexington Center Alliance, a residency
advocacy group formed to create vibrancy in the Town Center. She reported that the group
received a lot of positive feedback about the installation two summers ago and members were
disappointed not to see the initiative repeated last year. The group would like to see the
installations return and for longer than 45-days. The ability to sit outside and linger drew people
to the Center, a welcomed outcome.
Jerry Michelson, Chair of the Center Committee, is happy the seating will return. He offered to
facilitate discussion with the landlords in the Center.
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Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen vote 5-0 to approve the
installation of a temporary outdoor seating area at the Grain Mill Alley and Visitors Center as
requested by the Economic Development Office.
Approve Line Item Transfer—Title and Property Insurance 20 Pelham Rd
Ms. Ciccolo was recused due to a conflict of interest.
Mr. Valente said, with the purchase of 20 Pelham Rd, the Town has incurred two unbudgeted
insurance premiums: $12,037 for Title Insurance and $23,450 for Property Insurance.
To cover these items, staff recommends asking Town Meeting to transfer $36,000 from line item
2170 Uninsured Losses to line item 2160 Property & Liability Insurance. This transfer can be
accomplished under Article 28, Amend the FY2017 Operating, Enterprise, and CPA Budgets.
Mr. Pato asked why the Town needs title insurance if the Town took the Pelham property under
eminent domain. Mr. Valente said the Town regularly purchases title insurance in case there is
something that the title examiners did not find.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to recommend to Town
Meeting the transfer of $36,000 to line item 2160 Property & Liability Insurance from line item
2170 Uninsured Losses.
Review and Approve Final Draft of Brookhaven MOA
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Mr. Valente said that at the Selectmen’s meeting on April 12, a tentative agreement between
Brookhaven and the Town was reached on a Memorandum of Agreement, negotiated as part of
the 2017 Annual Town Meeting Article 44.
Mr. Valente said he recommends the Selectmen wait to approve the agreement until the
necessary zoning change adopted at Town Meeting.
David Kanter, Precinct 7 Town Meeting member asked if it would be better for Brookhaven to
sign first since they are bringing the article forward to Town Meeting. Jim Freehling,
Brookhaven CEO, stated Brookhaven is ready and willing to sign.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the
Memorandum of Agreement between the Town and Brookhaven and authorize signatures
subsequent to the successful adoption of Article 44 at 2017 Annual Town Meeting.
Article Positions & Presenters
Tonight’s articles:
Article 44—Brookhaven: All five members voted to support of Article 44.
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Article 10—CPA: all votes taken.
Article 16 (d)—Facility and Site Improvements: Mr. Kelley and Mr. Lucente will continue to
wait.
Article 43—Economic Development Refinements: Mr. Pato noted the Board held off voting
earlier because members felt the article did not go far enough. Ms. Ciccolo was a reluctant yes;
Mr. Kelley will wait to see what might change on the floor; Ms. Barry will wait; Mr. Pato is a
reluctant yes; Mr. Lucente is a reluctant wait.
David Kanter asked what the fate of his amendment for Article 43 was at the last meeting. Ms.
Barry said the Board was not in favor of the amendment because the intent of bundling the
projects into one article is for the appropriation to be flexible.
Article 28—Amend FY2017 Operating, Enterprise, ad CPA Budget: Mr. Lucente will present.
Article 29—Appropriate for Authorized Capital Improvements: Indefinitely postponed. Ms.
Ciccolo will present.
Consent Agenda
Water & Sewer Commitments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the
following Water & Sewer Commitments: Section I for $1,795,801.63; Cycle 9 for $229,036.38;
and Finals for $8,454.52.
Approve and Sign Proclamation—Lexington Garden Club
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve and sign a
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proclamation to commemorate the 141 year of the Lexington Garden Club.
Approve and Sign Proclamation—National Public Works Week
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve and sign a
proclamation to commemorate National Public Works Week.
Approve One-Day Liquor License—Lexington Historical Society
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the request
of the Lexington Historical Society for a one-day liquor license on May 6, 2017 at Lexington
Depot at 13 Depot Square, Lexington, Ma. for the purpose of a trivia night from 4:00 p.m. until
6:00 p.m.
Executive Session—Update: Fire Union Bargaining
Executive Session was deferred until the following meeting.
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Should Town Meeting conclude this evening, the Board of Selectmen meeting scheduled for
Wednesday, April 26 will be cancelled and the next Board of Selectmen meeting will be held on
Monday, May 1 at 7:00 p.m.
Adjourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at 7:00 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary