HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-10-BOS-min 71-35
Selectmen's Meeting
October 2, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 7:00 p.m. on Monday,
October 2, 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.
Selectman Concerns and Liaison Reports
Mr. Lucente reported he had attended the Town Meeting Member Association bus tour on
Sunday to see the capital improvements at the Diamond and Clark middle schools as well as the
modular elementary school classrooms at the Bridge School. The tour also visited the Hayden
Avenue project.
Flu Shot Clinic
Gerald Cody, Health Department Director, provided information about influenza and the vaccine
while David Neylon, Public Health Nurse, administered flu shots to three of the five Selectmen.
The next public Flu Clinic will take place on Saturday, October 28, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30
p.m. at the School Administration Central Office building, Old Harrington gymnasium, 328
Lowell St.
Town Manager Report
• National Grid will continue to do overnight work in Lexington Center at the corner of
Merriam Street and Massachusetts Avenue on Tuesday, October 3 and Wednesday,
October 4, 2017. One lane of Massachusetts Avenue will remain open to traffic.
• Lexington has received a $10,800 grant from the Massachusetts Department of
Environmental Protection to be used for Recycling services. The grant was awarded
based on the work the Town already does in this area.
• In advance of a new refuse and curbside recycling contract, two public meetings will be
held to gather input from residents about potential changes to the program. The meetings
will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. in Estabrook Hall of the Cary
Memorial Building and Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 8:45 a.m. in the main dining room
of the Community Center. Three options will be discussed: remaining with the status quo
system; switching to an automated system for both trash and single stream recycling;
adopting a hybrid system with trash removal and manual recycling pick up.
Grant Location for Eversource on Cedar Street
Ms. Barry opened the Public Hearing at 7:12 p.m.
Maureen Carol from Eversource petitioned for approval for a grant location.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the request
from the NSTAR Electric Company DBA Eversource Energy for the purpose of obtaining a
Grant of Location to install 67 ±feet of conduit in Cedar Street Installation Northwesterly from
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Selectmen's Meeting–October 2, 2017
pole 17/31 approximately 178 feet west of Homestead Street a distance of 67 ±feet of
conduit. The reason for this work is to provide electric service to a new residential development
called Penny Lane (proposed).
Ms. Barry closed the Public Hearing at 7:14.
STM 2017-3, Article 12: CPA Projects, Lowell Street Affordable Housing
Bill Kennedy, Co-Chair of LexHab, requested an additional $750,000 over the $1,284,653 in
CPA funds previously appropriated by Town Meeting in 2014, for the Lowell Street affordable
housing project consisting of two triplexes. The additional funds are for the purchase of solar
panels ($50,000)in addition to higher costs as a result of public bidding law requirements. The
units will be fully accessible and designed so that people of all physical abilities can live there.
Mr. Kennedy noted that the region is experiencing "a changed construction environment"
leading to higher construction costs. Previous per unit cost estimates were $214,000; new
estimates are $339,000. The project has been deemed eligible by the Department of Housing and
Community Development which allows LexHab to apply for a comprehensive permit.
The Board of Selectmen were unanimous in their support of this part of STM-3 Article 12, CPA
Proj ects.
Grant Location for Verizon—Massachusetts Avenue
Ms. Barry opened the Public Hearing at 7:20 p.m.
Everett Bryan, SR/WA, Rights of Way Engineer, EDS for Verizon New England, petitioned the
Selectmen to approve a Grant of Location across Massachusetts Ave. in conjunction with the
MassDOT Mass Ave project.
Joseph Tassone, 789 Massachusetts Avenue, asked if the pole in front of his address would be a
new or existing pole. Mr. Pato said the pole of the eastern side of Massachusetts Avenue is the
being removed and replaced. Mr. Bryan said the visual aspect of the property should improve
with one less pole.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the
installation of an underground conduit at Pole 57/44 on easterly side, place approximately 50 feet
of underground conduit across Massachusetts Ave. to proposed Hand-hole No. 789. Remove
Pole# 57/44A and replace with one Hand-Hole # 789 in sidewalk for splicing underground
cables and wires.
Ms. Barry closed the Public Hearing at 7:25 p.m.
Pole Relocation along Massachusetts Avenue
Ms. Barry opened the Public Hearing at 7:25 p.m_
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 2, 2017
Mr. Pato recused himself because one of the pole sequences is close to his home.
Everett Bryan, SR/WA, Rights of Way Engineer, EDS for Verizon New England noted the pole
locations and numbers.
Jim McLoughlin, 8 Marrett Road, questioned the relocation of poles 193/0 and 193/1 near his
house saying he does not believe the new positions are advisable given width of the sidewalk and
access. Mr. Bryan reported that Verizon, Eversource, and Town engineers have deemed the new
positions to be satisfactory. Mr. McLoughlin said he has measured the width and believes the
pole would encroach on his property if placed as the survey markings indicate. Mr. Bryan said
this would be reviewed with the Town and corporate engineers. The curb line will be moved as
well which could account for some of the discrepancy. This part of the petition was tabled until
the matter can be resolved.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to approve a relocation
of jointly owned pole No(s). 57/41, 57/43, 57/44, 57/47, 57/48, 57/60-A, 57/63, 57/66, 57/66-A,
as indicated on Petition Plan#P2017-4AOA5WW on Massachusetts Avenue and further to
approve relocation of existing jointly-owned pole no(s). 61/1 and 61/2 as indicated on Petition
Plan#P2017-4AOA5WW on Maple Street.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to continue the Public
Hearing for the Marrett Road relocation of existing jointly-owned pole No(s). 193/0 and 193/1 as
indicated on Petition Plan #P2017-4AOA5WW until October 16, 2017 at 6:00 p.m.
Mr. Pato rejoined the meeting.
Review and Approve Local Initiative Program (LIP) Application for the Manor House
Mr. Peter Kelley recused himself as he has an ownership interest in the property.
Brian Kelley, property owner/principal, presented information about the 51-unit condominium
project. Mr. Liz Rust, project consultant, was also present. The project adds 6 new affordable
home ownership units, located at the Manor House, to Lexington's owner-occupied affordable
housing inventory and adds to the 13 ownership units currently on the Town's Subsidized
Housing Inventory.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to approve and
authorize the Chairman to sign the Local Initiative Action Program Application for Local Action
Units.
Mr. Peter Kelley rejoined the meeting.
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 2, 2017
Water/Sewer Abatement Appeal
Owner of a two-family house at 164-166 Lowell Street, Salvatore Serio, appealed to the
Selectmen to adjust water and sewer bills for this address that were incorrectly calculated. The
Town agrees that Mr. Serio has been incorrectly billed but, adhering to policy, has agreed to
adjust bills of the last three years only. Mr. Serio asks that the full adjustment back to 2002 be
applied. The billed difference is the delta between charging for 40 water units at the base rate and
80 water units at the base rate; the Town incorrectly characterized the house as a single-family
unit rather than a 2-family residence. Using MWRA rates, Mr. Serio calculates that he has been
overbilled more than $2,900, of which the Town has agreed to adjust$1330. Carolyn Kosnoff,
Assistant Town Manager for Finance, recommends that the Board hear the appeal and take it
under advisement, for subsequent analysis and Board determination.
Ms. Ciccolo asked that Mr. Serio's numbers be verified, noting that three-year policy was
applicable in the case where the homeowner is at fault, not when the Town is at fault. Mr.
Lucente and Mr. Kelley concurred. Mr. Pato likewise sympathized but expressed curiosity about
how other municipalities handle similar discrepancies.
Ms. Barry thanked Mr. Serio and said he will be contacted once the Board has verified the
numbers.
Review and Approve Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with King Street Properties for
45-55-65 Hayden Avenue Development
Mr. Pato recused himself as his wife is the president of the Cary Memorial Foundation, the
channel through which donations will be conveyed to the Cary Memorial Library.
Mr. Valente noted that the Board of Selectmen previously reviewed the MOU at the September
25, 2019 meeting. Since that time, no substantive changes have been made to the text. This
parcel will go before Special Town Meeting for rezoning; the impact on the town has been
assessed and offset through mitigations spelled out in the MOU. Categories for these mitigations
include location of parking spaces for Conservation trail head; streamlined use of community
space; and noise control language that now mirrors similar text in the Brookhaven Agreement.
Ms. Barry reported that Town Meeting member Frank Sandy has expressed concerns in an email
to Selectmen regarding the number of parking spaces at the conservation land trail head. Mr.
Valente said the MOU sets the minimum requirement of parking spaces at four but there could
be larger number codified in the final draft if justification was made. Karen Mullen,
Conservation Administrator, has indicated to Mr. Valente that she is unaware of a need for more
than four spaces; additional spaces are available at the Clarke Middle School and at end of
Valley Road. If other parking spaces on the site are not being used by the tenants, they can be
used by trail users. Mr. Lucente said these parking spaces and access to the community space
were topics of interest on the Town Meeting Member bus tour. Mr. Valente said the Town does
not want to administer the community space; it will be made available by rules as established by
King Street Properties.
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Selectmen's Meeting–October 2, 2017
Bob Pressman, 22 Locust Avenue, asked how many parking spaces will be added to the site and
what the mitigation amount for parking will be. Mr. Valente said the estimate is 558 new parking
spaces and the mitigation is just under $1.1M.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to approve and sign the
Memorandum of Agreement between CRP/King Hayden Owner, LLC and the Town of
Lexington for 45, 55, 65 Hayden Avenue, Lexington Property.
Mr. Pato rejoined the meeting.
Approve Water/Sewer Rates
Carolyn Kosnoff, Assistant Town Manager for Finance, provided the third of three presentations
on proposed water/wastewater rates for FY2018. Tonight's meeting is for the purpose of setting
FY2018 water/wastewater rates.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve FYI water
and wastewater rates as proposed.
Article Presentations/Discussion/Positions
• STM 2017-3, Article 5: FYI Budget Adjustments
Five proposed adjustments:
1) New Growth: Increase from $2.5M to $3.OM;
2) State Aid: Increase from $13,552,552 to $15,712,062;
3) Local Receipts—Municipal: Increase from $1,874,000 to $ 2,474,000;
4) Parking Fund: Increase from $385,000 to $421,500
5) TMOD Stabilization Fund: Decrease $53,023 due to clerical error.
Overall, the increase in Revenue equals $3.367M
The above funds will be allocated in the manner below:
Operating Budget:
1) Property and Liability Insurance: $25,00020 Pelham Road;
2) Solar Producer Payments: $410,000;
3) Payments on Funded Debt: $2,351,487—partial payment on Pelham Road and Bedford
Street properties;
4) Facilities: $190,000;
5) Law Enforcement: $28,000—payment for 30 parking spaces at Our Lady of Redeemer;
6) Land Use Expenses: $8,500—striping new parking spaces;
7) Land Use Expenses: $44,000—Hartwell North Zoning;
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 2, 2017
8) Town Manager Expenses: $18,000;
9) Town Clerk Expenses: $12,000.
Capital Requests:
1) Lexington High School Security: $31,000
2) Visitors Center Design: $150,000
Mr. Valente said the bookkeeping for the $600,000 Local Receipt revenue achieved from the
Hartwell Avenue solar array has had to be adjusted because Eversource sent Lexington a check
rather than apply the amount against utility costs, as expected. Although the solar project
required an inordinate amount of staff time to navigate, a net revenue of about$190,000 per year
is expected from now on.
Ms. Barry asked that staff contact Hanscom AFB and Lincoln Labs to ask about reported new
programs and growth which may impact traffic volumes on Hartwell Avenue. Mr. Kelley said
that the difference between for-profit and non-profit activities should be tracked, with an eye to
negotiating PILOT payments where appropriate.
Members voted in support of STM 2017-3 Article 5 although it should be noted that Ms. Ciccolo
recused herself on those portions pertaining to 20 Pelham Rd and Mr. Pato said he would like to
better understand the Visitors Center costs.
• STM 2017-3, Article 6: Appropriate Stabilization Funds
Staff recommends that$200,000 be transferred to Traffic Mitigation Stabilization Fund (a
portion of the $283,793 King Street-Hayden Avenue alterations mitigation payment); and that
$126,766.62 (the remaining portion of the King Street Hayden Avenue alterations mitigation
payment plus the annual Avalon Bay mitigation payment)be transferred to the Transportation
Demand Management/Public Transportation Stabilization Fund.
Ms. Ciccolo said that even with payments being made into the Traffic Mitigation Fund, the
Town should anticipate questions about traffic from the South Lexington community. She asked
that a summary of projects and anticipated improvements be made publicly available and asked
that a review of Waltham Street and Hayden Avenue traffic be conducted. Ms. Ciccolo proposed
that the Town apply to the Metropolitan Planning Organization to fund improvements to the
intersection and consider committing the obligatory 100% design funds. Mr. Valente said he
will supply copies of a previous South Lexington traffic study but noted that the Waltham
Street/Hayden Avenue intersection is within the State's Route 2 right-of-way. He expects to
request that traffic mitigation funds be used to offset debt on a $3M sidewalk project.
All Board members voted in support of STM 2017-3, Article 6: Appropriate Stabilization Funds
0 STM 2017-3, Article 7: Amend Revolving Fund Authorization
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 2, 2017
This is a housekeeping item. Because more Spectacle Management events than anticipated are
taking place in Cary Memorial Building, both revenues and expenses are greater than originally
calculated and therefore staff recommends a $50,000 increase in the Building Rental Revolving
Fund authorization. All Board members supported STM 2017-3, Article 7: Amend Revolving
Fund Authorization.
• STM 2017-3, Article 8: Visitors Center Design
Staff recommends the appropriation of$150,000 for design development phase of Visitors
Center project. With this funding, Architect Don Mills would be asked to continue to do Value
Engineering; staff will examine use of Community Preservation Funds for eligible parts of the
project and the Tourism Committee would further explore grant and outside funding sources.
Ms. Barry noted that that the Selectmen received an email from Jerry Michelson, Chairman of
the Center Committee, reporting that the Center Committee has voted 6-0 in support of the
additional design funding with a recommendation that the architect be given guidance to
constrain construction costs to $2.5M to $3M.
Mr. Kelley spoke in full support of allocating the funds to move the project along and asked that
the architect explore various trade-offs to achieve a lower cost while the Town looks into
alternative funding options.
Mr. Pato noted that $151,000 has already been allocated for the project and another $150,000 is
being requested. He asked at what point third party funding solicitation is appropriate. Mr.
Kelley said he believes more questions about design and project scope need to be answered
before a firm partnership can be created with outside funders but exploratory conversations could
take place sooner. Mr. Lucente and former Selectman Norman Cohen concurred that other Town
projects with which they are familiar were at a more definitive stage than the Visitors Center
currently is when alternative funding partners became committed.
David Kanter, Precinct 7 Town Meeting member, asked how much already-appropriated funding
remains in the Visitors Center account. Mr. Valente reported that$38,000 is available. Mr.
Kanter recommended appropriating only what is needed to get the project to the point that
outside funding can be pursued.
Dawn McKenna, Chair of the Tourism Committee, thanked staff for recommending that
$150,000 be appropriated but asked that an additional $200,000 be included for construction
documents as well. The Tourism Committee is strategizing about alternative funding and will
present a plan to the Selectmen later this month. Town-based funding for stages of the project
can be made contingent on meeting certain milestones. Ms. McKenna reported that the Chamber
of Commerce is willing to explore ways to contribute to the project and to ongoing costs; state
grants are possible; and Senator Markey appears supportive of a federal funding request.
Bob Pressman, 22 Locust Avenue, asked if the Historic District Commission would need to
approve the design of a new Visitors Center and how this relates to funding. Mr. Valente said
architect Don Mills has presented the design to the HDC.
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 2, 2017
Four Board of Selectmen members supported the $150,000 request; dissenting, Mr. Pato
supported value engineering but not for an additional $150,000. Ms. Ciccolo said value
engineering could uncover ways to lower costs. The decision of whether or not to go forward
with the project should be based on how the Visitors Center fits into the larger context of Capital
needs. Mr. Valente will look to see if the remaining $38,000 can be applied toward the requested
$150,000, based on the wording of the previous appropriation.
STM 2017-3, Article 10: Distribution of Town Meeting Warrant
Norman Cohen presented information about a new electronic distribution system for Town
Meeting warrants that would largely replace the printed version now mailed to each Lexington
household. Print copies would be available as reference at multiple Town buildings and hard
copies would still be available upon request. Cost savings of$9,000 for printing and postage are
a factor but the issue of timing is more compelling.
Concerns about institutional memory, citizen engagement, and Town government transparency
as well as the need to potentially amend some of Article 10's text led to deferral of a vote. Mr.
Valente said any potential changes to the text should be cleared with Bond Counsel.
Ms. Barry reviewed Selectmen votes on other pending Special Town Meeting articles and noted
changes where appropriate.
Selectmen Committee Reappointments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to reappoint Carol Ann
Bottino to the 20/20 Vision Committee for a three-year term to expire on September 30, 2020.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to reappoint Michael
Boudett to the Center Committee for a three-year term to expire on September 30, 2020.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to reappoint Al Zabin
to the Condo Conversion Committee for a three-year term to expire on September 30, 2020.
Approve FYI 6-18 Collective Bargaining Agreement with Lexington Police Association
Ms. Barry recused herself because her husband is a Lexington Police Officer.
Ms. Ciccolo noted that the provisions of the contract have been previously discussed in
Executive Session.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to approve and
authorize the Town Manager to sign the FYI 6-18 Collective Bargaining Agreement with the
Lexington Police Association as presented.
Ms. Barry returned to the meeting.
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 2, 2017
Consent Agenda
• Appoint Acting Executive Clerk for the Board of Selectmen
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to appoint Kim
Katzenback as Acting Executive Clerk for the Board of Selectmen.
• Approve One-Day Liquor Licenses
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve one-day
wine and beer licenses for Spectacle Management in the Cary Memorial Building, 1605
Massachusetts Avenue for the following dates: October 13, 2017 Comedy Blowout, 7 p.m. to
I 1p.m.; October 15. 2017 The Temptations, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.; October 19, 2017 Pink Martini,
6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.; October 20, 2017 Heather MacDonald, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.; October 22
Fab Four, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Water& Sewer Adjustment
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the Water
& Sewer adjustment as presented.
Ms. Barry announced that Lexington's State House delegation members Representative Jay
Kaufman, and Senators Mike Barrett and Cindy Friedman would be present at one of the
upcoming November Selectmen meetings.
Ad,ourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at
approximately 9:26 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary
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Budget Summit Meeting 1
Board of Selectmen, School Committee, Appropriation Committee,
and Capital Expenditures Committee
October 5, 2017
A Budget Summit was held Thursday October 5, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. in the Public Services
Building Cafeteria, 201 Bedford St. Board of Selectmen (BOS): Ms. Barry, (Chair); Mr. Kelley;
Mr. Pato, Ms. Ciccolo and Mr. Lucente were present along with Mr. Valente, Town Manager;
Ms. Kosnoff, Assistant Town Manager Finance; Ms. Hewitt, Budget Officer; Mr. Hudson,
Management Fellow and Ms. Katzenback, Acting Executive Clerk.
Also present: School Committee (SC): Mr. Alessandrini (Chair); Ms. Colburn; Ms. Jay; plus Dr.
Czajkowski, Superintendent of Schools; Mr. Daley, Assistant Superintendent of Finance;
Appropriation Committee (AC): Mr. Bartenstein (Chair); Ms. Basch; Mr. Levine; Mr. Michelson
and Mr. Radulescu-Banu. Capital Expenditures Committee (CEC): Mr. Lamb (Vice Chair); Ms.
Beebee; Mr. Cole; Mr. Kanter; Ms. Manz and Mr. Smith.
Ms. Barry called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and the other committees followed suit. Ms.
Barry explained that, due to the nature of the meeting, no public comment would be taken.
Procedure for Meeting Minutes
Ms. Barry explained that the BOS Acting Executive Clerk will be taking the minutes for the
Selectmen and will share draft copies of those minutes with the chairs of the SC, CEC and AC
for review, prior to approval by the BOS.
FY2019-2021 Financial/Budget Overview
Mr. Valente explained the first part of the presentation will include an abbreviated version of the
Town's financial condition showing financial indicators focusing on debt and financial
resilience. Next, Part 2 of the presentation will provide an overview of the three-year revenue
and expenditure analysis and also include a further explanation of the School budget and
expenditure projections. Finally, in part 3 of the presentation, the initial key policies for
consideration in preparation for fiscal year 2019 will be reviewed.
Abbreviated Overview-Lexington's Financial Condition
Mr. Valente reported on the following indicator analyses: I.11-Debt Service, I.11(a)-Projected
Debt Service, I.12-Long Term Debt and I.13-Reserves and Fund Balance.
• Indicator I.11 —Debt Service.
Mr. Valente reported the Town's Net Debt Service as a percentage of general fund revenue has
remained remarkably stable since 2011. The Debt Service is primarily monitored for two
reasons: One, to be prepared for questions that may come from credit rating service and second,
to ensure there is enough in the operating budget so that much needed capital projects can be
funded. Mr. Valente noted the amount of debt service per household has increased due in part to
the approval of debt service mitigation for the Bridge/Bowman and Estabrook School projects.
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Budget Summit# 1 — October 5, 2017,
Indicator I.11(a)—Projected Exempt Debt Service.
Mr. Valente explained the Projected Debt Service growth into fiscal 2020 was based on
modeling performed by the Finance Department. The residential share of debt service is used to
determine the effect of the exempt debt on Lexington households.
• Indicator I.12 —Long Term Debt.
The Long Term Debt as a percent of assessed valuation and Long Term Debt per household are
financial measures evaluated by the credit rating organizations. Lexington has a strong profile in
each of these measures.
• Indicator I.13 —Reserves and Fund Balance
The Town has strengthened its reserve position by augmenting and transferring money into the
Stabilization Funds. This adds financial flexibility to the Town's operations and provides a
buffer against economic downturn.
FY 2019-2021 Townwide Revenue and Expenditure Forecast
Ms. Kosnoff gave a forecast of general fund revenues and expenditures for the period FY 2018
to 2021. She emphasized that the projection is not a proposed or recommended budget, it is a
tool for planning. The forecasting methodology is a maintenance budget approach, meaning that
the projected increase in costs needed to maintain the current level of services is reflected in the
adopted FY 2018 budget. The difference between projected revenues and expenditures is
characterized as "available balance" which can be used to fund "variable cost drivers" such as
service or program enhancement, add to reserve balances or finance capital in excess of the
annual capital plan.
Summary of Revenue/Ex enditures Pro'ections
FY2018 FY2019 FY2020 FY2021
Projected Projected Projected Projected
Revenue Summary $212,282,127 $221,498,053 $222,667,253 $230,326,976
Total Revenues
Expense Summary $212,282,126 $219,849,724 $227,081,683 $236,654,709
Total Expenses
Available Balance 0 $ 1,648,330 $ 4,414,430 $ 6,327,732
FY 2019-2021 Expenditure Projection for School Operating Budget
Superintendent Czajkowski highlighted the impact of rising school enrollments on the operating
budget as well as on infrastructure and program challenges. She noted that existing
salaries/expenses, additional personnel costs to address enrollment growth as well as other
known impacts, such as two middle school construction projects, the proposed Hastings
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Budget Summit# 1 — October 5, 2017,
elementary expansion and initiatives involving the Central Administration Building, are
included in the projection for the School operating budget.
Dr. Czajkowski cited the following"Key School Policy Issues" which will be addressed.
• Enrollment Growth
• Building Capacity/Multiple School Projects
• LHS Building Project Visioning
• Maximizing Existing Space/Capacity/Flexible Assignment
• Preserving and Maintaining Programs
• Social/EmotionalInitiatives
• Collaboration with Town& School (Diversity & Mental Health)
• School Schedules
• Project-Based Learning
• School Start Times
• Graduation Requirements
• Financial Implications of above
Dr. Czajkowski identified the assumptions that have gone into making the budget projections
illustrates a level-service budget and does not include program improvements.
Salaries and Wages:
• Includes 2.5%increase on base budget for step increases; ($1,000,000) for staff turnover
savings each year
• Assumes anticipated funding for unsettled contracts in FYI 9-21
• Includes additional staffing due to projected enrollment increases in FY19-21 based on
preliminary Enrollment Advisory Group (EAG) projections
• Includes additional staffing for new Hastings Elementary School (Facilities) and
Lexington Children's Place (Facilities & Schools).
• Recurring additional staff related costs are inclusive of benefits, workers comp, Medicare
Expenses:
• Program budget per pupil rates adjusted by 1.7% Consumer Price Index (CPI) each year
and applied against projected enrollment levels based on preliminary Enrollment
Advisory Group (EAG)projections
• Special Education Out-of-District Tuition and Transportation Lines projected based on
program trends
• Approximately 82-88% ($900k to $1.15 million of$1.1 to $1.3 million; depending on
fiscal year) of total expense line increases each year are driven by these budget lines
(FY19-21)
• All other expense lines adjusted by 1.7% Consumer Price Index (CPI)
• Includes additional expenses for new Hastings Elementary School (Facilities) and
Lexington Children's Place (Facilities).
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Budget Summit# 1 — October 5, 2017,
Mr. Kanter asked if additional services are being considered to keep special education services in
the schools versus sending students out of district. Dr. Czajkowski replied that this is certainly
being looked into.
Mr. Daley provided an analysis regarding Chapter 70 as it relates to Lexington. Chapter 70 is the
Commonwealth's school funding formula. It defines an adequate spending level (foundation
budget)based upon the demographics, grade levels and programs of its pupils. The formula
defines how much a city or town can afford to pay to reach its foundation budget, using a
combination of property value and income. Aid makes up the difference between the "required
local contribution" and the foundation budget. The sum of the required contribution and the aid
equals the "net school spending requirement."
Mr. Daley explained, historically, Lexington's Chapter 70 reimbursement rate as a percentage of
the foundation budget was lower than the statutory minimum of 17%but now is at or around the
minimum.
Policy Issues Related to FY2019 Operating and Capital Budget
Mr. Valente highlighted the policy issues that should be considered during the financial
deliberations:
Continuing Policy Issues:
• Financing Plan for Increasing School Enrollments (Limiting Program Improvement
Requests)
• Financing Plan/Property Tax Impact for School and Municipal Capital Projects
• Plan for Use of Capital Stabilization Fund
• Community Interest in Addressing Pedestrian, Bicycle and Vehicle Safety on Town
Roads, Intersections and School Properties. Sidewalk Betterment Evaluation (BOS Goal
7, 10)
• Financing Options for Stormwater Management Mandates
New Policy Issues
• Implementation of 20/20 Subcommittee Report/Diversity Advisory Task Force (Goal 18)
• Community Center Expansion Options (BOS Goal 7)
• Staffing for Public Information/Citizen Outreach Activities (BOS Goal 9)
• Community Mental Health Programs (BOS Goal 13)
FY2019 Budget Calendar(5 min.)
Mr. Valente reviewed timeline for 2018 Annual Town Meeting and submission deadlines for the
FY 2019 budget calendar.
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Budget Summit# 1 — October 5, 2017,
Update: Capital Financing Model/Property Tax Mitigation Plan
Mr. Valente reiterated that"Capital" continues to describe Lexington's financial challenge but
because of the financial policies which were endorsed to prepare for the Town's anticipated
capital projects, the Town should be able to offset a significant portion of the property tax impact
of these projects to our residents and businesses.
Ms. Kosnoff reviewed three options to finance land purchases
1. Issue Debt over 30 years within tax levy
2. Increase capital stabilization fund to pay off Debt
3. Five Year BAN roll-over
Continue Discussion -Fall 2017 Debt Exclusion Vote
Ms. Barry asked each committee to state its recommendation of contingent or non-contingent
regarding Special Town Meeting 2 (STM 2), Article 2, Hastings School project as it relates to the
Fall Debt Exclusion vote.
Mr. Lamb reported the Capital Expenditures Committee is in favor for STM 2, Article 2 for the
Hastings School project to be non-contingent.
Mr. Alessandrini said the School Committee voted unanimously in favor STM 2, Article 2 for
the Hastings School project to be non-contingent.
Mr. Bartenstein stated that a poll of the Appropriation Committee led to a 6-2 vote in favor of
STM 2 Article 2, to be contingent
Upon a motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-1 for Special Town
Meeting 2, Article 2 for the Maria Hastings School funding project to be contingent on the
passing of the debt exclusion vote.
Establish Date: Summit 2
Mr. Valente announced Budget Summit 2 will be held on Wednesday November 15, 2017, 7:00
p.m. in the cafeteria of the Public Services Building at 201 Bedford Street.
Ad,ourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at
approximately 9:15 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Katzenback
Acting Executive Clerk
71-49
Board of Selectmen
October 11, 2017
A meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. in
Estabrook Hall of the Cary Memorial Building, located at 1605 Massachusetts Avenue. Present
for the Board of Selectmen (BOS)were: Ms. Barry, (Chair); Mr. Kelley; Mr. Pato, and Mr.
Lucente along with Mr. Valente, Town Manager; Robert Beaudoin, Superintendent of
Environmental Services; and Ms. Siebert, Recording Secretary. Also present was Matt Zettek,
solid waste and recycling consultant.
Ms. Barry called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.
Public Comments on the Future of Lexington's Trash and Recycling Program
Mr. Valente opened the session by explaining that this year ends Lexington's six-year contract
with JRM Hauling and Recycling. A task force has been formed to oversee the new contract and
a request for proposals has gone out to bid. Two companies, including JRM, prevailed in first
round of the process. Three service options, to be discussed this evening, are now under
consideration: remaining with the status quo system; switching to an automated system for both
trash and single stream recycling; adopting a hybrid system with automated trash removal and
manual recycling pick up.
Mr. Beaudoin, Superintendent of Environmental Services, gave an overview of the current
program and what goals the new program would like to meet. Lexington currently pays $87 per
ton in solid waste tipping fees; no fee is levied for recycling tonnage. A recent survey of 100
Lexington households showed that 72% put out one trash barrel each week; 21%put out two; 6%
put out three; and 1%put out four. If an automated trash removal system is adopted, each
household would be issued a 65-gallon wheeled trash cart. If automated recycling is chosen, a
wheeled cart would be issued as well, rather than the manual bin used now, and recycling would
become single-stream. Bulky items would require an appointment for pick up. Yard waste
disposal would not change.
Mr. Beaudoin said the benefits of automation are: trash generation and tipping fees are reduced;
single stream recycling is easier;jobs would be created; there is greater safety for workers,
vehicles, and pedestrians; the streets would be less unsightly and cleaner; trash(and recycling)
cart maintenance would be handled by the vendor.
Public comments, including those submitted to Mr. Beaudoin by email, will be considered as the
contract process continues. A second community meeting with the same content will take place
Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 8:45 a.m. at the Community Center.
Public Comments:
Diane Bigelow, 15 Bellflower Street, asked if there would be a charge for bulky item pick up.
Ms. Barry said there would be no charge in Lexington although there is in other communities.
Ms. Bigelow said she believes that people who already recycle will recycle and if they don't
know amount of education will change that.
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 11, 2017
Dawn McKenna, 9 Hancock Street, asked what time of year the trash counts were conducted,
noting that residents are often away in the summer and counts may not be accurate. She asked
how many of the comparable communities on the list already have weekly vs. bi-weekly
recycling and noted it will be hard for elderly residents to maneuver the trash and recycling carts.
She believes it a burden to ask people to learn a new system and that past controversies about
trash in Lexington have not fully healed. Storage of large wheeled carts is not always easy or
convenient and if carts cannot be stored, they will be unsightly. Ms. McKenna said if increased
recycling is the goal, the Town should launch a resident education initiative. She said that having
to call to make appointments for bulky item adds to the amount of time she has to spend on trash.
She asked that a comment button be added on the DPW homepage to make it easier to send input
to Mr. Beaudoin.
Mr. Beaudoin said the counts were conducted in the summer. Mr. Zettek said weekly automated
recycling using the large wheeled carts, rather than small bins, statistically increases recycling
volumes.
Richard Glantz, 95 Winter Street, asked whether the new carts are raccoon-proof. Mr. Zettek
said if one is damaged by animals, the vendor will replace it at no charge to the resident.
Bob Pressman, 22 Locust Avenue, believes the existing system works well for most residents
and noted a 10%price increase would occur even if the status quo is kept. The double automated
system would add another 4%. Unless the automated system is unequivocally better, the current
system should be kept. Cart storage is another problem.
Elaine Adler, 3 Sunny Knoll Terrace, said the claim that the new system would create jobs at the
recycling center should be offset by the fact that the new system would decrease the number of
workers needed on the truck. Additionally, her driveway is sloped and the wheeled cart will
make handling refuse and recycling more difficult. Multiple recycling bins can increase
recycling volumes. An education program would increase recycling.
Joyce Greif, 101 Meriam Street, said the wheeled carts are monstrously large and hard to store
and she finds the automated trucks frightening.
Tom Shiple 18 Phinney Road, observed that the current recycling system is defacto single stream
and therefore, even if the status quo is maintained, residents should be told they no longer need
to separate materials. He would like to see cost savings quantified.
Bebe Fallick, 4 Diehl Road, also commented on the difficulty of maneuvering and storing the
wheeled carts.
David Kanter, 48 Fifer Lane, endorses single stream recycling but does not believe it will
increase recycling or reduce trash volume. He asked how the automated trucks would be able to
maneuver in cluster developments that lack open linear curbing. The current system works well
and will cost less than automation.
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Selectmen's Meeting–October 11, 2017
David Evans, 21 Follen Road, is against automation, saying a single wheeled barrel would limit
his ability to recycle. If trash, too, is limited to 64 gallons, people will find a way to get rid of
any excess. Recycling should be single stream. He does not agree with the list of community
benefits.
Harriet Silverman, 49 Fern Street, said the large cart for recycling is good because it increases,
psychologically, how much people feel they should recycle. She asked how many residents
currently do not recycle at all. Mr. Beaudoin calculated that 25% of what is discarded as trash
could be recycled. He said the Town does not enforce recycling but the State has a grant program
so towns can hire recycling monitors for education and enforcement.
Matthew Saradjian, 259 Bedford Street, is opposed to automation but is fine with single-stream
recycling. The size of the cart makes it hard for someone who has physical impairments and the
mechanical arm of the automated truck could pose dangers.
Tracey Herbert, 366 Marrett Road, said she supports anything that can increase recycling and
having one barrel on wheels is easier than the current system.
Jay Flynn, 1 Hunt Road, also supports anything that will increase recycling but he would like to
see some facts and figures. He asked what are the causal relationships are behind larger bins for
single stream and increased recycling volumes, as has been noted by other towns? Mr. Zettek
said if a town already recycles a lot, as Lexington does, the increase will be less dramatic.
Frank Smith, Precinct 3 Town Meeting member, asked whether the point of the change is to save
money or increase recycling. The goal should be clearly stated.
Steve Heinrich, 11 Potter Pond, said his development has a unique configuration and way of
dealing with trash and recycling. The complex employs an onsite manager to organize trash and
recycling for pick up and the new proposals would complicate that system.
The meeting took a 5 minutes recess and reconvened at 8:35 p.m.
Special Town Meeting: Board Positions/Discussion
Ms. Barry reviewed Selectmen positions on Special Town Meeting articles.
Discussion about Article 1213—Appropriate Community Preservation Act Projects—Open
Space, 44 Adams Street:
Mr. Pato said that the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) met and had a"straw
discussion" about Article 12B. The matter did not come to a vote as there was no appraisal or
price named for the property. CPC will meet again on Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 3:00 p.m.
and Mr. Pato said the committee expects to have the material so it can come to a
recommendation. He characterized the straw discussion as "fairly robust" both for and against
the appropriation request and said the majority of members felt the project was worth discussing
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 11, 2017
once all the missing information has been supplied. However, there was also some resistance to
that course of action. Mr. Kelley was also present at the meeting.
Ms. Barry noted that Board of Selectmen was not unanimous in its support of moving the matter
to CPC and members have also not taken official position on the article itself. Mr. Pato said he
conveyed to CPC that the Selectmen had voted 4-1 in favor of advancing the matter to CPC but
there was not yet a strong vote for or against the article.
Mr. Kelley observed that there were a lot of negative feeling expressed toward the idea of the
land purchase. Mr. Kelley then described the property and the proposal at hand, showing
drawings of the house that would be built if the Town does not act to purchase the land. Mr.
Kelley is anxious that the Town seize the opportunity to acquire the property and connect it to
the adjacent conservation land. He agrees there are legitimate questions to be addressed but he
asks that Town Meeting be allowed to discuss the matter via the CPC article.
Mr. Lucente said he supports bringing the matter to Town Meeting. The developer has held off
on his plans to build and the Town has conducted an appraisal of the property. The Selectmen
voted 4-1 in favor of moving the project forward to CPC.
Ms. Barry agreed that 44 Adams Street is a unique property but believes the decision to acquire it
goes beyond the five members of the Board of Selectmen. She is in favor of moving forward to
CPC and also in favor of moving forward to Town Meeting. People in town have expressed their
support for Open Space although the decision for this particular acquisition is difficult.
David Kanter, 48 Fifer Lane, asked what will happen if the appraised value of the land is less
than the developer will accept. Mr. Kelley reported a strong interest among citizens to help make
up the difference and noted that a Chiesa Open Space Trust already exists.
Bob Pressman, CPC member, reported that four of the nine CPC members indicated they would
be against the purchase. He described a number CPA-eligible projects now being vetted for
Annual Town Meeting, all with substantial price tags, and added that the CPC fund begins the
year with a lower than expected balance. Bebe Fallick, 4 Diehl Road, said there is oral and
pictorial history material available from when the original portion of the Chiesa Farm was
purchased.
Dawn McKenna,9 Hancock Street, said projects like this are why CPA exists. The Town has no
choice over when land becomes available and acquisitions must be discussed as they come up.
She believes Town Meeting should discuss the proposal.
Mr. Lucente agreed that there are a lot of competing projects and asked how much money has
been spent by CPC for Open Space over the course of time. He asked, also, how often a CPC
proposal for an Open Space acquisition has been quashed by Town Meeting. He noted that Open
Space is a top community priority.
Bob Pressman, CPC member, stated that$14M has been spent over time for Open Space; $9M
for Recreation; $9M for Affordable Housing; and $35M for Historical Resources. He cannot
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 11, 2017
remember an Open Space purchase that was rejected by CPC.Selectmen's Meeting—October 11,
2017
Exemption 6: Potential Purchase of Land, 44 Adams Street
Upon motion duly made and by roll call, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 at 9:15 p.m. to go
into Executive Session, under Exemption 6, to consider the purchase, exchange, lease or value of
real property, 44 Adams Street, and to reconvene in Open Session. Further, it was declared that
an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of the Town.
Open Session
The Board of Selectmen reconvened in Open Session at 9:47 p.m.
Ms. Barry announced that the Board voted in Executive Session to release the appraisal of land
at 44 Adams Street. The value has been determined at$1M. Mr. Valente will post the appraisal
on the Special Town Meeting webpage.
Mr. Valente noted that the Town would request CPC to advance funds for the customary
ancillary costs.
Add ourn
Upon motion duly made and by roll call, the Board of Selectmen voted to adjourn at 9:47 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary
71-54
Board of Selectmen
October 12, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was held Thursday October 12, 2017 at 8:55
a.m. in the Lexington Community Center Cafeteria. Board of Selectmen (BOS): Ms. Barry,
(Chair); Mr. Pato, Ms. Ciccolo and Mr. Lucente were present along with Ms. Axtell, Assistant
Town Manager; Mr. Pinsonneault, Department of Public Works Director; Mr. Beaudoin,
Superintendent of Environmental Services and Ms. Katzenback, Acting Executive Clerk.
Public Comments on the Future of Lexington's Trash and Recycling Program
Mr. Pinsonneault stated that Lexington's current trash collection contract will expire June 30,
2018. He said a task force group was formed to evaluate available collection alternatives in
preparation for the next contract.
Mr. Beaudoin explained three options are available for consideration: 1)Manual Trash/Manual
Recycling as is done currently in Lexington, 2) Automated Trash/Automated Recycling and 3)
Automated trash/Manual recycling. Mr. Beaudoin noted that many towns have implemented or
are currently evaluating an automated trash collection program where residents' trash is collected
via a mechanized arm on the truck to lift and discard trash. He explained this type of program
utilizes a wheeled cart, issued by the Town, that is placed at the curb on collection day to be
mechanically grabbed and lifted by the trash truck to tip the trash efficiently and cleanly into the
truck.
Mr. Beaudoin outlined the following benefits of utilizing an automated trash collection program:
• Trash generation reduction= savings in avoided tip fees
• The Single Stream recycling program is easy
• Increased recycling supports new jobs
• Sturdy and durable Wheeled Cart provided to each household
• The program also helps improve the quality of life by making Lexington a cleaner place to
live and work
Mr. Beaudoin stated one of the next steps in determining the future of Lexington's Trash and
Recycling Program is to take into consideration the feedback of the community.
The following residents in attendance expressed concern of using an automated system:
Carolyn Tiffany, 109 Reed Street, expressed concern of storing the new bins and having to
manage the larger cart.
Leonard Heinrich, 12 Balfour Street, expressed concern of using an automated system especially
during the winter when there are snow banks.
Phil Hamilton, 23 Fifer Lane, expressed concern regarding what residents will do with their
existing containers.
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 12, 2017
David Horton, 68 Paul Revere Road, expressed concern about maneuvering the larger cart and
having larger sized trash barrels on roads that are very narrow.
Pat Costello, 9 Preston Road, expressed concern about taking a larger container up and down the
incline of the driveway and stated the container is too large for the amount of weekly garbage
she disposes.
The following residents in attendance indicated they are in favor of an implementation of an
automated trash collection program:
Lin Jensen, 133 Reed Street, stated she is favor of an automated program and also encouraged
fellow residents to implement composting which can reduce waste for trash collection.
Bonnie Karshbaum, 7 Westwood Road, stated she is in favor of an automated trash collection
program.
Other residents in attendance made the following comments:
Mary Hutton, 67 Valley Road, stated she is in support of composting.
Ms. Barry thanked the residents for their feedback and noted that any additional comments can
be submitted to the Selectmen's office or to Mr. Beaudoin.
At 10:05 a.m. Ms. Barry called a brief recess and the meeting was called back to order at 10:07
a.m.
Special Town Meeting: Board Positions/Discussion
Ms. Barry reviewed the Board positions on STM 2 and STM 3 articles and asked Ms. Ciccolo for
her position on Special Town Meeting (STM) 2, Article 2 - Appropriate for Hastings School
Construction. Ms. Ciccolo stated her position is yes for STM 2 article 2.
Establish Date for Debt Exclusion vote
Ms. Barry stated that Monday December 4, 2017 has been identified as the date for the Debt
exclusion vote and asked the Board if there were any questions. Mr. Pato asked if this is the only
date that works in timetable. Ms. Barry explained it was ascertained that after receiving
feedback from campaign organizers and facilities department who took into consideration the
Thanksgiving Holiday and the availability of voting locations, December 4, 2017 is the date that
works.
Add ourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to adjourn at
approximately 10:15 a.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Katzenback
Acting Executive Clerk
71-56
Selectmen's Meeting
October 16, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 6:00 p.m. on Monday,
October 16, 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.
Selectman Concerns and Liaison Reports
Mr. Lucente attended the Fire Department Open House on Public Safety, October 14. He noted it
was both well-attended and well-run.
Town Manager Report
Mr. Valente asked that Melisa Tintocalis, Economic Development Officer, be recognized to
announce the completion of the Visitors Orientation Map, a year-long project shepherded by
Megan Zammuto, Economic Development Coordinator. The map is available now in print form
and online and will be presented at Historical Society and Chamber of Commerce meetings.
Mr. Valente said Hanscom Air Force Base, through MassPort, will conduct an update of a
Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act(MEPA) study. To inform the study, a public scoping
session will be held on Tuesday, October 24 at 6:30 p.m. at the Civil Air Terminal at which
residents will be asked to review and comment on MassPort development plans. All comments
will become part of the study; issues not raised do not have to be included in the study. Written
comments will be accepted through November 9 and can be submitted via a link on the MassPort
website or by emailing Mr. Valente. Ms. Barry asked that this information be posted on the
Town website. Ms. Ciccolo expressed concerns about scale, noting that such studies are
commonly done when changes are substantial.
Special Town Meeting: Board Positions/Discussion
• Article 8—Appropriate Design Funds for Visitors Center:
Dawn McKenna, Tourism Committee Chair, Tourism committee members Kerry Brandin and
Marsha Baker, and Fred Johnson, liaison from the Center Committee, presented information in
support of a request to include an additional $200,000 for Visitors Center construction
documents under Article 8. This would raise the request total to $350,000. One of the most
compelling reasons to include construction design funds is the potential for a one-to-one
matching grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council with a submission deadline of
November 17, 2017. The tourism season cycle is also a factor in attempting to move the process
along expeditiously.
Mr. Kelley and Mr. Lucente were supportive of the full $350,000. Mr. Pato was not in favor
because he is concerned about the number of high ticket projects on the horizon. Ms. Ciccolo and
Ms. Barry opted to wait for more discussion and consideration before voting. Ms. McKenna said
she would forward any further information to the Board.
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Selectmen's Meeting–October 16, 2017
• Article 10—Amend General Bylaws—Distribution of Town Election/Town Meeting
Warrant:
Both Town Counsel and Bond Counsel are reviewing the language of the article. Mr. Valente
distributed several non-substantive edits for Board review.
• Article 12—CPA Appropriate Community Preservation Acts Projects—Open Space/44
Adams Street:
Discussion postponed until October 17, 2017.
Pole Relocation Marrett RoadVerizon/Eversource
Ms. Barry re-opened the Public Hearing on this matter at 6:26 p.m.
At the October 2, 2017 Board of Selectmen meeting, the Marrett Road portion of the Pole
Relocation Petition was tabled until October 16, 2017 to allow time for Verizon and MADOT to
verify that the proposed pole relocation will not encroach on private property and that the
sidewalk space will meet ADA requirements. As the MADOT/Verizon site visit to verify the
pole relocation is scheduled to take place on October 18, 2017 it is recommended that the Board
continue this item to the October 30, 2017 BOS meeting. Ms. Ciccolo urged the Town's
Engineers to look closely at whether the 4 feet distance is adequate. Mr. Lucente asked if this
delay would affect any projects ongoing in the area. Mr. Pinsonneault, Director of Public Works,
indicated it would not.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to continue the Public
Hearing to October 30, 2017 at 7 p.m.
The Public Hearing was closed at 6:29 p.m.
Middlesex 3 Letter of Support
Melisa Tintocalis, Economic Development Director, reported that Middlesex 3, the regional
economic development consortium that Lexington belongs to, will be making a proposal to
Amazon for its planned second headquarters. The area proposed is called the
Riverview/Baker/Brookwood site in Billerica, Tewksbury and Lowell. Ms. Tintocalis said
Middlesex 3 recognizes this proposal to be "a long shot" but nevertheless asks that member
towns sign a letter of support.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen enthusiastically voted 5-0 to
approve and authorize the Chairman to sign a letter of support to Amazon for locating a new
Amazon campus at the Riverview/Baker/Brookwood site in Billerica, Tewksbury and Lowell.
Establish Fees—Bike Share Program
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Selectmen's Meeting–October 16, 2017
Melisa Tintocalis, Economic Development Director requested that the Board approve the rental
fee model as presented. The launch event for the program is scheduled for October 27, 2017 at 9
a.m.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the bike
share fee schedule of$1 per hour, or an annual member fee of$25 with trips under 2 hours for
free and $1 per hour for each additional hour.
Council for the Arts—Breakthrough Artist of Lexington Award
Seetha Ramnath, Chairman Lexington Council for the Arts, gave a brief update on the Council
for the Arts activities and also announced stained glass artists Joel Kowit as the winner of the
2017 Breakthrough Artist of Lexington Award. Mr. Kowit showed slides of some of his artwork
which is inspired by his career as a molecular biologist. He will use his award money to improve
the visibility and Google Analytics of his artist website.
Board Review Draft Charge/Membership/Timeline for Ad Hoc 40C Committee
This item appears on the list of 21 goals the Board is working on in FYI 8-FY19.
Ms. Ciccolo said the Board is being asked to explore options to update Lexington's Historic
Districts governing legislation, or convert Lexington's Special Act provisions of Chapter 447,
Acts of 1956 ("An Act Establishing an Historic Districts Commission for the Town of Lexington
and Defining its Powers and Duties, and Establishing Historic Districts in the Town of
Lexington", as amended) to a district governed by the statewide enabling act for historic districts,
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40C (the "Historic Districts Act")
Conversion to a 40C scheme for local historic districts would simplify the member selection
process, make Lexington regulation consistent with the standards applied by communities across
the Commonwealth, and enable the HDC to draw on over 55 years of supportive case law
interpreting the various provisions of 40C. Conversion to a 40C governance structure will also
better ensure architecturally and historically important properties are preserved according to
recognized standards of historic preservation, thus enhancing the character of our town for its
residents and visitors.
The first step in the process is to establish an Ad Hoc 40C Committee. Carol Kowalski, Assistant
Town Manager for Development, would act as support staff. Ms. Barry noted the committee
charge draft included in the meeting materials and asked for feedback from Board members. She
father noted there would be a sunset for the committee which is defined as completion of the
deliverables as outlined in the charge, possibly by Annual Town Meeting 2018.
Mr. Lucente asked if one of the committee's five members could be drawn from one of the
town's Historic Districts. Mr. Valente said the potential for this representation is included in the
membership criteria.
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 16, 2017
Ms. Barry said the announcement of the formation of this ad hoc committee would go out
through the usual channels and the application process would also follow established form. The
Selectmen would make the final appointments.
Town Manager Reappointments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the Town
Manager's reappointment of Leonard J. Morse-Fortier and Shaun Grady to the Commission on
Disability for terms to expire October 31, 2020.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the Town
Manager's reappointment of Ralph Bitsko to the Conservation Commission for a term to expire
March 31, 2020.
Appoint Board of Selectmen Office Manager/Executive Clerk
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen enthusiastically voted 5-0 to
appoint Kim Katzenback as Office Manager/Executive Clerk for the Board of Selectmen and
to authorize the Chairman to sign the letter of appointment.
Consent Agenda
• Approve One-Day Liquor Licenses
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the Munroe
Center for the Arts' request for a One-Day Liquor license to serve wine at Cary Memorial
Building, 1605 Massachusetts Avenue on Oct 19 - Art Show Exhibition/Reception 6:00 p.m. -
8:00 P.M.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve Spectacle
Management's request three (3) One-Day Liquor licenses to serve beer and wine at Cary
Memorial Building, 1605 Massachusetts Avenue on the following dates: November 12, 2017 -
Arlo Guthrie from 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.; November 17, 2017 -Nick DiPaola from 7:00 p.m. -
11:00 p.m.; November 25, 2017 -Peter Sagal from 6:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Add ourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at
approximately 6:59 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary
71-60
Selectmen's Meeting
October 17, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday,
October 17, 2017 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room of the Town Office Building. Ms. Barry,
Chair; Mr. Kelley; Mr. Pato; and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente, Town
Manager; and Ms. Katzenback, Executive Clerk.
Special Town Meeting: Board Positions/Discussion
• Article 12, STM 2017-3: CPA funds for 44 Adams Street Purchase
Mr. Kelley reported that earlier today Mr. Barons, owner of 44 Adams Street, requested the
Town discontinue efforts towards the purchase of this property. Mr. Kelley respectfully asked
that Article 12 be indefinitely postponed.
Ms. Barry stated the Board's position on Article 12 will be updated to"indefinitely postponed".
• Article 8, STM 2017-3: Appropriate Design funds for the Visitors Center
Dawn McKenna, Tourism Committee Chair, reiterated the Tourism Committee's request to
include an additional $200,000 for Visitors Center construction documents under Article 8. This
would raise the request total for Article 8 to $350,000.
Ms. Manz, CEC, stated the Capital Expenditure Committee (CEC)feels final design should go
through the Town Meeting process before any construction funds be awarded.
Mr. Kelley and Mr. Lucente were supportive of the request for the full $350,000. Ms. Barry and
Mr. Pato were not in favor of including the additional $200,000.
Ad,ourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to adjourn at
approximately 5:12 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Katzenback
Executive Clerk
71-61
Selectmen's Meeting
October 18, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was held at 6:32 p.m. on Wednesday, October
18, 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, Executive Clerk.
Public Comment
Mr. Pressman, Community Preservation Committee, read a prepared letter expressing hope that
care be taken for future construction on the Chiesa property.
Special Town Meeting: Board Positions/Discussion
Ms. Barry reviewed the Board's position regarding the request for additional funds being added
to Article 8 - Appropriate Design funds for the Visitors Center as stated in the October 17, 2017
Board of Selectmen meeting at which Ms. Ciccolo was absent. Ms. Barry noted that Mr. Kelley
and Mr. Lucente were supportive of the request for the full $350,000 and she and Mr. Pato were
not in favor of including the additional $200,000.
Ms. Ciccolo said she is in support of the current amount of$150,000 for Article 8 and is not in
support of adding an extra $200,000 to Article 8 for construction funds.
Ms. Barry stated the Board stands 4-1 in support of Article 8 as written for $150, 000 in design
funds and decided 3-2 against the request for an additional $200,000 in construction funds being
added to article 8.
Review and Approve Letter: Complaint Regarding Inn at Hastings Park Liquor License
Ms. Barry said she and Mr. Valente have met with Ms. Kennealy, owner of the Inn at Hastings
Park, regarding a complaint that was received regarding the Inn at Hastings Park Liquor License
and the service of alcohol on the patio.
A motion was made and seconded to approve and sign the letter regarding the Inn at Hastings
Park Liquor License Violation.
Call for Special Election-Debt Exclusion Vote and Vote Debt Exclusion Questions
Mr. Valente stated the Board previously discussed the inclusion of three questions in the Debt
Exclusion Vote: first regarding a new Maria Hastings School, next regarding a new Lexington
Children's Place (LCP) and the third regarding a new Fire Headquarters and a temporary Fire
Station. Mr. Valente said two versions of the Special Election Warrant are being presented to the
Selectmen for review. He explained the difference between the two versions lies within question
2 for the LCP in which warrant version 1 includes the cost of converting existing LCP space at
Harrington to elementary school space and warrant version 2 does not include this cost.
Ms. Ciccolo recused herself from the discussion regarding the Pelham Property.
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General Board discussion ensued in support of selecting version 2 of the Special Election
Warrant for approval.
Upon a motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to approve and sign
the Special Election Warrant, version 2, regarding election date, time and the questions for the
debt exclusion election.
Ms. Ciccolo resumed participation in the meeting.
Upon a motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to call for a
Proposition 2 '/2 debt exclusion election for Monday, December 4, 2017, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00
p.m.
Authorize Chairman to Vote for MPO Candidates
Upon a motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to authorize the
Chairman to vote for the four candidates on the ballot for re-election to the Metropolitan
Planning Organization (MPO).
Consent Agenda
• Waive Parking Fees-Depot Parking Lot
Mr. Lucente asked if consideration could be made regarding parking fees on the night of the
Holiday lighting. Ms. Barry said this would be looked into and discussed at a future meeting.
Upon a motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted to waive all parking fees
at the Depot parking lot on November 25, December 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30.
Add ourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at
approximately 6:54 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Katzenback
Executive Clerk
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Selectmen's Meeting
October 30, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 7:00 p.m. on Monday,
October 30, 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.
Selectman Concerns and Liaison Reports
Mr. Kelley announced he will not seek another term on the Board of Selectmen. He has served
for 15 years in this capacity and is believed to be Lexington's longest continuously-serving
Selectman. Mr. Kelley praised Lexington's citizens for their willingness to serve the Town and
he thanked the Town Manager and staff for ably steering "Planet Lexington". Mr. Valente and
Mr. Kelley's colleagues paid tribute to the many ways in which Mr. Kelley has served the Town.
Ms. Barry thanked Town Meeting members and Town staff for a very productive Special Town
Meeting that was concluded in two nights. Ms. Barry also congratulated the Lexington High
School Minuteman football team on its victory over Andover, sealing the Middlesex League
championship for a second year in a row. The next competition will be against Everett on Friday,
November 3 at 6 p.m. on Crumb Field. Ms. Barry attended the recent ribbon cutting at Wave
Life Sciences on Hartwell Avenue, noting the rapid growth the company has experienced in its 3
years of existence. Ms. Barry also noted last week's inaugural Zagster Bike Share event, saying
it was an exciting beginning for a new program that already shows signs of success.
Town Manager Report
Mr. Valente gave an update on storm damages from the weekend's rain and wind event. Public
Works crews have been working throughout the night to clear tree debris. The extent of the
damage was significant enough to call in subcontractor assistance. 550 residents remain without
power at this time. Mr. Valente cautioned residents not to go near downed power lines.
Pole Relocation Marrett RoadVerizon/Eversource
This matter was again postponed until November 6, 2017 due to lack of pole location
confirmation.
Public Hearing—Noise Bylaw Waiver in Center
Mr. Lucente recused himself due to his home's proximity to the area in question.
Ms. Barry opened the Public Hearing at 7:16 p.m.
David Pinsonneault, Public Works Director, and Ralph Pecora, Water/Sewer Superintendent
requested a three-year Noise Bylaw Special Permit for Sewer Main Flushing. The DPW would
like to begin work at 5:00 a.m. starting Monday November 6th through Friday November 17th in
2017 and again at 5:00 a.m. during the first two weeks in November in 2018 and 2019. The
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work area is in and around the Town Center along Massachusetts Avenue from Meriam Street to
Woburn Street and includes adjacent streets that connect to Massachusetts Avenue between these
two end points. The work entails use of the sewer vacuum truck and is best done when
pedestrians and high traffic volume are not present.
Ms. Ciccolo questioned the 11-day period. Mr. Pecora said the length of the job will depend on
what is found during the flushing process. Any single manhole location can require 10-20
minutes of work.
Ms. Barry noted an email received from a resident of 50 Waltham Street, requesting a start time
of 7 a.m. rather than 5 a.m. Mr. Pato asked if starting at the later hour would present difficulty
for the work crews. Mr. Pecora replied that crews will be in the middle of the street and two-way
traffic would be impacted more at that time. Public Works has done this fall flushing work for
decades, always starting at 5 a.m.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to grant a three-year
Noise Bylaw Special Permit to the Lexington Department of Public Works to carry out Sewer
Main Flushing.
Mr. Lucente returned to the meeting.
Traffic Regulation: Bryant Road and Sanderson Road Stop Sign
Residents in the Sanderson Road/Bryant Road neighborhood have submitted a request to the
Transportation Safety Group (TSG)for traffic controls at this intersection. Dave Cannon, Town
Engineer, reported that TSG recommends Stop signs on Sanderson Road at Bryant Road, and
noted that development in the area has worsened sightlines.
Nancy Adler, 22 Village Circle, applauded her neighbor's effort in coming forward to request the
Stop sign. She noted that traffic in the area is "a real problem" and reported she was almost
struck by a vehicle whose driver mistakenly believed he had the right of way. Bryant Road is a
cut-through and drivers often speed to get to work at the nursing home located in the
neighborhood. Ms. Adler suggested the Town consider speaking to Lexington's businesses with
the goal of raising employee awareness of impacts to the neighborhoods.
John Bartenstein, 46 Sanderson Road, asked if there have been accidents at the intersection. Mr.
Cannon said there have been a number of close calls but he does not believe there has been a
high rate of accidents.
Ms. Barry noted an email received by Selectmen from the residents of 4 Bryant Road who
strongly support the installation of the Stop sign.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve and sign the
Traffic Rules and Orders for stop signs on Sanderson Road in each direction, at Bryant Road.
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 30, 2017
Residential Exemption Work Group Status Report
Preserving affordability for residents is one of the Board of Selectmen's top financial goals. In
the Spring of 2017, the Board consented to form a Working Group to study a Residential
Exemption. The Group consisted of six members: Selectman Joe. Pato, Vicki Blier, Patricia
Costello, Glenn Parker, John Bartenstein, Andrei Radulescu-Banu. The Group's charge was to
study if an exemption would help reduce some property tax burdens, particularly on seniors.
Now that the Group has completed its initial fact-finding, Mr. Pato and Vicki Blier presented a
brief tutorial on the Residential Exemption, a discussion of the effects of implementation, and a
recommendation for further efforts.
It was determined that a residential exemption would pertain only to owner-occupied residential
properties and the decision to apply the option would be made by the Selectmen at the annual tax
classification hearing. The Selectmen could choose a factor between 0% and 35% of the average
residential assessment and the resulting number would become a fixed dollar amount that is
deducted uniformly from the assessments of each eligible property before the tax rate is applied.
In order to keep the exemption revenue-neutral, the overall tax rate would be increased and all
residential parcels would be taxed at the new, higher rate, but only owner-occupied homes would
receive the exemption. The effect would be to reduce taxes on owner-occupied homes with
valuations below the identified $1.119M break-even point, and to increase taxes on homes above
the break-even point.
Using this formula, 60% of all owner-occupied homes would see a sliding scale tax decrease and
17% of all owner-occupied homes would see an increase. The exemption amount itself is based
on a percentage of the Town's average residential assessment. The Working Group noted that
more residential taxpayers than expected would see reductions. Ms. Blier estimated that 75% of
senior-only households will benefit and 55% of the under 60-age cohort would also see property
tax reductions. A $600,000 home would get a reduction in tax of$632 at 10% and $2,800 at
35%. The break-even home would see no change, and the $2 Million home would see increases
of$1,072 and $4,752.
The Group recommended that the Selectmen appoint a broader ad hoc committee to look into the
deeper policy implications of applying the exemption and to gather community feedback. The
Group deliberately refrained from delving into policy matters, noting the exemption would yield
both winners and losers.
Ms. Ciccolo agreed with the recommended next steps and asked what a realistic timeline might
be. Mr. Pato said if the work goes well, the ad hoc committee's recommendations might be
adopted in time to impact tax rates starting in FYI or FY20.
Mr. Kelley noted that changing the rates in the manner suggested would be a challenging task for
the Town's Assessors and asked that they be asked to provide input before an ad hoc committee
is formed. He added that the question of who needs an exemption and who does not is not always
clear cut but setting in place an equitable, workable system is nonetheless important. He believes
raising taxes on properties not occupied by the owner could have the effect of raising costs for
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renters. Mr. Pato said he had consulted with the Town Assessor who is aware of the Working
Group's conclusions. Ms. Blier said she spoke at length to the Chair of the Board of Assessors.
Mr. Lucente would also like to hear from the Assessors but does not see harm in forming an ad
hoc committee to address the more granular questions raised by the exemption. He asked what
would happen in the case of an accessory apartment. Ms. Blier said an accessory apartment
would be considered owner-occupied if the owner lives on the property. Additionally, the
exemption would not affect subsidized housing or Section 8 properties.
Joel Adler, 22 Village Circle, asked how property tax decreases would affect the Community
Preservation (CP) surcharge and if a bond holder would have concerns that such a tax shift
would introduce greater risk. Mr. Pato said the exemption would shift impact but not reduce
overall residential tax revenue and therefore CP funds should remain the same. CP was not
studied by the Group but evaluating the surcharge is among the work items to be examined.
Ms. Barry said she supports forming the ad hoc committee. She will coordinate with Mr. Pato on
next steps.
Application for Common Victualer License—Wicked Bagel
Jack Mahoney, Owner of Wicked Bagel, asked the Board to consider a request for a Common
Victualler License from Landmark New Group Inc. d/b/a Wicked Bagel, 171 Massachusetts
Avenue. He has fulfilled all application requirements.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve a Common
Victualler License for Wicked Bagel, 171 Massachusetts Avenue for the hours Monday - Sunday
6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Initial Review—FY 2019-2023 Capital Improvement Plan
Preliminary FY 2019 capital improvement requests were submitted for the Selectmen's initial
review. Carolyn Kosnoff, Assistant Town Manager for Finance, said Town departments
submitted their Capital Requests to the Finance Department who, in turn, passed them along to
the Capital Expenditures Committee. Ms. Kosnoff provided brief descriptions of certain requests
that may warrant more in-depth discussion at this or future Selectmen's meetings. Projects for
particular attention that are new or require particular attention include:
• Application Technologymulti-year, on Capital Plan; FY19=$340,000 to analyze IT
inventory
• Lexington Police Station Rebuild—FYI 9 design/construction= $1.2M
• Town-wide Roofing—multi-year, starting in FY2021; Bridge School roof potentially
eligible for MSBA funding
• Lexington High School Upgradeplaceholder; feasibility study FY20= $1.825M
• Public Service Building Vehicle Storage Area Drainage—FY19= $157,000
• Center Streetscape Improvements—multi-year; FY19= $450,000
• Automatic Meter Reading System—three years, phased by sectors; FYI 0=$750,000
• Water Distribution System Improvements—continuing multi-year program; FY19= $1M
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Selectmen's Meeting–October 30, 2017
• Town-wide Signalization Improvements—multi-year; FYI 9= $1.1M
• Hill Street New Sidewalk Proj ect FY20=$1.5M
• Pelham Street Sidewalk and Roadway ImprovementsFY19= $1.4M
• Athletic Facility LightingFY19=$975,000
• Center Field and Track ReconstructionFY19=$3.34M
• Community Center Expansion—three-year project; FYI 9=$250,000.
Dawn McKenna, Chair of the Tourism Committee, noted that the cost of the Visitors Center is
listed under 2020 and the Committee is working toward a 2019 construction date for opening in
the spring of 2020. She hoped the project will be moved into the 2019 column in anticipation of
a warrant article for full-project funding in that year.
Ms. Kosnoff noted that maintenance for the Water Distribution System has been underfunded.
Engineering has recommended the Town increase the yearly appropriation from $LM (current)
to $2.2M starting in FY20.
Ms. Barry asked if the frequency at which water meters are read would increase once the new
meter system is installed. Mr. Lucente asked if a return on investment(ROI) analysis has been
done for the meter replacements and if the increase in maintenance funding has been calculated
in such a way to avoid future underfunding. Mr. Kelley asked if the automatic system would
allow residents to tie into the system database for notifications. Ms. Kosnoff will check into the
meter-reading frequency. She said the ROI is part of the water system study being conducted
now and a change in the maintenance appropriation suggested by Mr. Lucente will be
considered. Mr. Pinsonneault said the meter reading system will not be just a billing tool and
resident interface is a component of the analysis being conducted. Automatic reading capability
will also help the Water Department know about leaks so repairs will be made faster and
abatements will be requested less frequently.
Ms. Barry noted that 2025 will be a significant year for Lexington and items related to the Battle
Green should not be postponed. Dawn McKenna, Chair of the Tourism Committee, said the
Visitors Center, being part of the Battle Green, is important, as is the rest of the Battle Green
Master Plan.
Jill Hai, Chair of Capital Expenditures Committee, asked if the potential impact of cut-through
traffic to streets abutting the Center Streetscape area has been addressed. Mr. Valente said they
have not yet been resolved and although the Woburn Street intersection is being considered
separately from the Center Streetscape project, the Board of Selectmen will consider the two
issues together when the time comes. A decision on the Woburn Street intersection
signalization or no signalization—will necessarily affect the Center Streetscape design decision.
Dawn McKenna asked that the Battle Green and Center Streetscape projects be aligned and
included in the funding appropriation considerations.
Ms. Barry agreed that the Center track and bleachers are in bad shape but asked if the track area
would be affected by high school construction. She asked for a breakdown of the dollar figures
for this item. Mr. Pato said, without knowing the disposition of the track area, he is unwilling to
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 30, 2017
approve funds for anything more than temporary improvements. Additionally, he questioned
inclusion of the Community Center Expansion project in the Capital list since he wants
alternative funding to be pursued. Mr. Lucente questioned the Community Center schematic
design amounts, saying they seemed lower than the scope of the project would suggest.
Bob Pressman, Housing Partnership member, asked that LexHab be included in the Capital Plan,
with regard to the Busa property and Leary Housing. He noted that there are new projects on the
Community Preservation list that he believes should not jump in line ahead of the 6 '/z year old
Leary Housing project. Dawn McKenna similarly asked for prioritization of older projects over
new and added, to be equitable, that more projects be considered for private funding.
Ms. McKenna also agreed that the Center Track and bleachers have been in bad shape for years
but she is unsure if the community has an appetite for complete renovation of the athletic
complex. She urged the Selectmen to consider the potential revenue an improved sports campus
might provide.
Mr. Kelley said the track/athletic area has poor drainage and is not a viable building site. Jill Hai,
Chair of Capital Expenditures, noted that track improvements have been on the Capital Plan for
several years. The question is not if the new high school will be sited on the athletic field campus
but if the athletic field would be impacted by construction-related staging activities.
Review and Approve Amendment to Remote Participation Policy
Mr. Pato said recent changes to the Open Meeting Law affect rules about remote participation.
The Selectmen's Policy Manual Committee met to review the changes and recommends
Lexington eliminate the five prior conditions, as the State has done, and adopt the new condition
under which remote participation is allowed in both Open and Executive sessions for all Boards,
Committees, and Public Bodies. The remote participant would count toward a quorum and, for
Executive Sessions, would affirm s/he is not in the company of others while the meeting takes
place. Recording of Executive Sessions would not be allowed, the same as if a member is
physically present.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to amend the Board of
Selectmen's Remote Participation Policy as presented.
Review and Approve Charge for Ad Hoc 40C Committee
At the October 16, 2017 Selectmen's meeting, the Board reviewed the draft charge, membership,
and timeline for Historic Districts Commission Ad Hoc 40C Study Committee. The Board is
now being asked to approve the committee charge for the Historic Districts Commission Ad Hoc
40C Study Committee.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen noted 5-0 to approve the Historic
Districts Commission Ad Hoc 40C Study Committee Charge.
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Selectmen's Meeting–October 30, 2017
Review Proposed RCN Contract Amendment
In 2016, RCN relocated their hub from Lexington to 956 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington. The
existing current cable license between RCN and the Town of Lexington refers to the hub site
being located in Lexington. RCN asks the Board to approve their request for an amendment to
the existing Cable License between RCN and the Town of Lexington which would delete the
references to the hub site being located in Lexington in Section 1.1 (28) and Exhibit 2. The
Communications Advisory Committee has reviewed this request and is in favor of the proposed
amendment.
Once the request is approved, a notice shall be published in the newspaper with a summary of the
proposed amendment. After a 21-day public period of review,the Board will then take into
consideration the approval of proposed amendment.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the request
for consideration of proposed amendment from RCN as outlined and to publish summary in the
local newspaper.
Selectmen Committee Appointments/Reappointments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to appoint Ramin Tariz
to the Communications Advisory Committee for a term to expire September 30, 2020.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to reappoint Trisha
Perez Kennealy to the Tourism Committee for a term to expire September 30, 2018.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to reappoint Marsha
Baker to the Tourism Committee for a term to expire September 30, 2018
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to reappoint James
Wood to the Tree Committee for a term to expire September 30, 2019
Consent Agenda
• Proclamation—Employee Recognition Day
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to sign the
proclamation for Employee Recognition Day, Wednesday, November 8, 2017 to honor all Town
Employees and to recognize those employees with 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years of service.
• Water& Sewer Commitments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the
following Water& Sewer commitments: Aug 2017 Final Water Bills = $ 18,117.94; Sept 2017
Final Water Bills = $ 11,300.74; Sept 2017 Cycle 9 Billing= $ 290,163.92.
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Selectmen's Meeting—October 30, 2017
Executive Session
Ms. Barry recused herself due the fact that her husband is an employee of the Town. Ms. Ciccolo
will act as Chair.
Upon motion duly made and by roll call, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 at 8:50 p.m. to enter
Executive Session under Exemption 3 to discuss strategy with respect to Collective and Coalition
Bargaining and to reconvene in Open Session only to adjourn. Further, it was declared that an
Open Meeting discussion may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the Town.
Ad,ourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 to adjourn at
approximately 9:40 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary