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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1956-04-30-BOS-min 431 SELECTMEN'S MEEETING April 30, 1956 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held in the Selectmen's Room, Town Office Building, on Monday evening, April 30, 1956 at 7:30 P.M. Chairman Reed, Messrs. James, Maloney, Tucker and Mrs. Morey were present. Mr. Gayer, Superintendent of Public Works, Mr.- Stevens, Town Counsel, and the Clerk were also present. Mr. James J. Carroll met with the Board for the drawing of two jurors, Otis N. Minot, consultant, 22 Eliot Road and Alma F. Spiers, Office Manager, 195 Lowell Street, were drawn for jury duty. Mr. Carroll retired. Mr. Stevens presented plans of the proposed sewer in its relation to land owned by Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd, Trunk line 202 Cedar Street. It was his recommendation to aban- Sewer don the original taking and he explained that anyone Lloyd looking up a title would see the abandonment and then property look at the new plan. He said that the steps would be to abandon the present taking and make a new taking. If the instruments are signed this evening, he would record them tomorrow and draw a confirmatory grant and release of damages. In the grant there will be a right of way for a period of one year. Mr. James asked if the reason for the right of way was for construction purposes and Mr. Gayer replied in the affirmative. Upon motion of Mrs. Morey, seconded by Mr. Tucker, it was voted to abandon and release to the lawful Abandonment owners or those claiming under them, all right, title of sewer and interest acquired by a taking of Parcel 3 and in easement 15 foot strips adjacent to said Parcel 3. Said order (Lloyd) of abandonment recorded on May 4, 1956 as instrument No. 388. (Copy of Order in Selectmen's Files, 1956 under Sewer Orders) Upon motion of Mrs. Morey, seconded by Mr. Tucker, it- was voted to sign an order of taking for sewer Sewer easement across the Lloyd property on Cedar Street. Easement Said order recorded on May I , 1956 as Instrument No. (Lloyd) 389 and the plan refereed to therein. wasrecorded at the same time as Plan No. 681 of 1956. (Copy of Order in Selectmen's files, 1956 under Sewer Orders) . 32 Cb Cla The Chairman read a letter from the Town Accoun- Captain Fisk tant advising that Captain Howard Fisk, Fire Depart- pension ment, who died in the line of duty while fighting a fire, was not a member of the Contributory Retirement System. Therefore, any action in regard to a pension to his widow must originate with the Board of Selectmen. Mr. Stevens explained that the widow would have to make application to the Board and the maximum she could receive would be $1500 per year. He stated that the amount, if established now, could be changed. It was agreed to take no action on the supject until Town Counsel has had an opportunity to check it further and prepare necessary application for Mrs. Fisk to sign. The Chairman read a letter from Mrs. Florence Bernier re Liberty Bill copyright. According to the Copyright Office in Washington, D. C., the Town Cele- brations Committee could only copyright the drawing of the Minute Man if an original. Mr. Stevens recommended that the Board take no action until after the final meeting of the Committee at which time he understood the subject was to be dis- cussed further. The Chariman read a letter from John L. Ennis, 24 Complaint Theresa Avenue, relative to tax title lots 152 and 153 on Theresa Avenue. Mr. Ennis claimed that a Porter family at #32 Cliffe Avenue has been using the land for a combined car park and automobile re- pair shop, which makes it difficult for her to sell his house. The Chairman was authorized to request the Building Inspector to submit a report before writing a letter asking to have the nuisance abated. Mr. Gayer said that he would like to discuss the dump. He said he would do whatever the Board wanted, but Dump he did recommend discontinuance of picking. He re- ported that the situation is bad on Saturdays and Sundays. He also asked what hours the Board wanted the dump to be open. He said that when it is not open the gate should be closed and people should be stepped from going in and when it is open a care- taker should be on duty at all times. As it is now, the town is paying a man for only forty-four hours. The Chairman said that the dump attendant would have to be paid overtime or else someone else would have to be hired. He said there is no use in putting up a fence unless there is an attendant on duty. 4r Mr. Tacker felt that people would dump even if the dump is locked, and Mr. Gayer said that it would be necessary to have the police make a few arrests. Mr. Gayer suggested running a cast iron pipe in to provide water so the attendant could extinguish some of the fires. Mr. Maloney suggested, and the Board agreed, hav- ing a survey made and registration numbers taken of cars. going into the dumpbetween 7:00 A.M. and 9:00 A.M. and between 6:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. Mr. Tucker recommended having the subject com- pletely reviewed, make all changes at one time and give it ample coverage in the Minute-Man. At 8:45 P.M. Mr. Maurice Gagne met with the Board. He said that there is a lot of pressure being brought on the veterans: He was present this evening as a representative of the veterans of the Town of Lex- ington and it seems that the Veterans' Library had Veterans' never been dedicated. The veterans want to arrange Memorial to go before the School, Committee, through the Select- Library men, and have the library dedicated within a reasonable time. The veterans also want to know When it is pos- sible for anyone to go into this library. He said that some Gold Star mothers have tried to go in but were unable to during the day because school was in session and it is closed nights, Sundays and during vacations. He said that the veterans feel the records of the men both living and dead should be available. If they cannot be seen, they are in the wrong place. The Chairman explained that the Board of Selectmen has no jurisdiction over the schools and he stated that the memorial should be dedicated. He stated that at Town Meeting everyone knew that the school would not be open during the summer and he thought that was one reason the veterans asked to have another memorial in front of the Cary Memorial Building. He asked if it was Mr. Gagne's idea for the Selectmen to make an ap- pointment with the School Committee for a group of veterans. Mr. Gagne replied in the affirmative and said there would be three veterans attend the meeting. He said they feel the Selectmen should intercede because they are the governing body. The Chairman said that he had no objection to ask- ing the School Committee for a meeting with the veterans but personally, he would, if it were he, request the appointment himself. Mr. James asked if the veterans had tried to see the 11 School Committee and Mr. Gagne replied in the negative. I-34 Mr. Tucker said it seemed to him that the veterans should request an appointment themselves and if it were not granted, then the Board of Selectmen could contact the Committee. Mr. Gagne said he was open to suggestions . The Chairman said that the School Committee, never having been asked for an appointment to discuss the subject, might be. upset at the Bard' s interference. He said he could. see no reason. why they would not make an appointment to see the veterans. Mrs. Morey explained that when the library was being finished the committee made every effort to have every- thing completed, including the memorial book, in time for Memorial Day. The library committee was notified and it was assumed that someone would take over any dedication. She explained that the school building committee had done all that was requested and that is where it ended. She said that, inasmuch as no formal dedication has been made, it would peem better to wait now until the present construction was completed. Mr. Tucker said that if the veterans suggest that it be dedicated now, it will draw attention to the tact that it was overlooked two or three years ago. If they wait until the building is completed, it could very well be done then. Mr. Gagne said he would like it for Memorial Day but if the school is not complete, he would not want people going in there. The Chairman said he thought the Board felt Mr. Gagne should go to the School Committee first and Mr. James said that was his feeling. Fe said the veterans should request an appointment 'with the School Committee. Mr. Gagne said he would go along with that. The Chairman said that if he were unable to make an appointment, the Selectmen would then be glad to talk things over and arrange a meeting. The Chairman asked if any plans were being, made for Memorial the observance of Memorial Day and Mr. Gagne replied Day in the affirmative. He said he would see that the Board received a program. Mr. Gagne retired at 9:00 P.M. Chief Engineer, Roy A. Cook met with the Beard. The Chairman explained that the Board would like to discuss the subject of Deputy Firs Wardens. He said, unless he was mistaken, at the moixent he was the only Forest Warden. 4a Chief Cook said that was correct and his officers act as deputies when he is not available. Deputy Fire The Chairman explained that the Board felt there Wardens should be a good number of deputies who, under the Forest Warden, would have the power to stop people from burning around town, that is, more efficient coverage than the town now has. He said not only members of the Fire Department should be appointed deputise but Others as well. He said the Board would like a little more enforcement as far as starting fires is concerned. Mr. James asked if the Chief thought Lexington was any worse off than other towns in regard to the number of fires and he replied in the negative. He said Lexington was not as bad as Waltham or Arlington. Mr. James said he checked a week ago yesterday, the day Lexington had so many fires, and Arlington had 13, Watertown had two, Bedford had one, Concord bad one, Waltham had five and two or those were mutual aid to Lexington, and two of Arlington's were mutual aid. He said on that day Lexington was worse off by far. Chief Cook said on that particular day Lexington was busy but the next day the other towns may have been busy. He said he was only too glad to co-operate. Mrs. Morey asked how many people called for permits and Chief Cook replied some days there is a larger num- ' ber than others. He said a record is kept of all the calls and permits granted, but many people do not realize a permit is required. Mr. Maloney asked how many people who have permits cause trouble and Chief Cook replied that there are a very few. He said it is the people who do not call for a permit that cause the trouble. Mr. James asked what could be done about people setting fires and causing trouble. Chief Cook replied that they can be taken to c curt and minimum fine is $5. He said he thought better results were obtained by talking to people. Mrs. Morey asked if the police could be appointed Deputy Forest Wardens and Chief Cook replied that on real bad days he does call the police and ask the men in the cruiser to check anyone burning. He has not deputized them. Mr. James said he would like to see this entire story written up in the Minute Man, that something is being done about fires, that there are deputies and under what conditions people can burn and can't burn. Chief Cook said that he has sent post cards out in regard to burning. The Chairman asked if the Fire Commissioners had any II power and the Chief replied that they could stop anyone from burning if they wanted to. 436 0.1 Mr. James asked if the Commissioners had any authority and Chief Cook replied in the negative. The Chairman asked if it would be wise to appoint the three Commissioners as Deputies. Chief Cook said he would be glad to appoint them if they want it but he did not think they would care to be deputies. The Chairman said there should be someone to help the Chief out and he had no particular suggestions as to who that might be. He said they should be deputized and their names published in the paper. Mr. Tucker asked about burning in incinerators and Chief Cook explained that an incinerator is classified as an outdoor fire and the State will not give speci- fications as to what an incinerator is. He said with him it is just like an outdoor fire and on windy days he will not give a permit. He said: permission must be obtained each time to burn in an incinerator. The Chairman mentioned appointing deputies from different sections of the town and Chief Cook said he thought it would work out very well. The Chairman said that the Baird would like the Chief to appoint quite a few deputy fire wardens, give' them badges and print their names in the paper. Mr. James asked about burning open lots and the Chief replied that his department does it weekends if the weather is right. Mrs. Morey asked if it would be possible to have some of the deputies acting by this weekend and Chief Cook replied in the affirmative. He said he could have the list for publication this week. Mr. Maloney suggested appointing the 8ommissioners and said he thought they would like it. Chief Cook retired at 9:20 P.M. Letter was received from -the Mystic Valley Gas Gas main Company rerlative to a proposed location for a six inch gas main in Simonds Road. A second letter was received from the Mystic Valley Gas Company relative to a proposed location for a six Gas main inch gas main in Lowell Street, East Street, Coolidge Avenue and Adams Street. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to grant the applications, the installations to be in ac- cordance with requirements of tire Superintendent of Public Works. Sewer Petitions were received for sewer connections from connections residents on Paul Revere Road, Revolutionary Road, Mas- sachusetts Avenue and }4inute Man Lane. 43 No action can be taken until the installation of the trunk line sewer has been completed but an item will be included in the 1957 budget to be considered when appropriations are being prepared f or 'presenta- tion to the Annual Town Meeting in March. Letter was received from Howard H. Dawes, together with petition requesting an amendment to Article 1Ivan Street of the Annual Town Meeting whereby Ivan Street would be cnnatructed at the northwesterly end for a distance of approximately 300 feet. The Chairman explained that the Board agreed to bring this up at another Town Meeting, that no further funds are needed and it could be handled at a Special Town Meeting. The Chairman read a letter from Ernest J. Corrigan, 145 Pleasant Street, requesting removal of two trees Trees at 80 North Hancock Street which are in the direct en- trance to a proposed street that he plans to develop. Mr. Gayer recommended no action until the subdivi- sion has been presented to the Planning Board. ' Mrs. Morey said t hat the trees will have to be re- moved when the Street is widened. It was agreed to defer any action on the request dntil the Planning Board has had an opportunity to consider the subdivision. Mr. Gayer referred to Mr. James Dudleyts request for a sidewalk in front of his property at 1.7 Parker Sidewalk Street and reported that it will cost Mr. Dudley ap- proximately $95.00 for blacktop. Mr. Gayer said that he had another request for a sidewalk on Berwick Road which was promised last Fall. Sidewalk It is on the corner of Berwick Road and Meriam Street and he called the house to find out just where the sidewalk was to go but there was only achild at home. He said it is the only portion in the area not paved. The ChairmaiS said that the Board agreed to do it and money was Already appropriated. Mr. Gayer referred to 5_ the intersection of Hancock and Revere Streets and Coolidge Avenue and said that Traffic he has discussed the subject with the Town Planner and circle they both feel that, in the future, a rotary would be desirable at this location. If the Board so desires a complete study will be made. The Chairman said that apparently Mr. Gayer was not recommending any action by the Field and Garden Club and suggested advising them that the town is about to cnCL make a traffic study to determine the feasibility of a rotary, in which event the plot would be cut down to some extent. It was agreed not to consider installation of curb- ing at this time and to have Mr. Gayer make a more complete study relative to a rotary. The Chairman reported that the Chief would like the Traffic study Board to appoint a committee, including himself and committee Mr. Gayer, to make a thorough study of one-way streets. It was agreed to have Chief Rycroft, Mr. Gayer and Mr. Snow as a committee and if they find it advisable to enlarge the committee, the Board will appoint some- one. Webb Street Mr. Gayer reported that he had made a study of sewer Webb Street regarding sewer facilities and there is no way to sewer the street with existing facilities. Mr, Gayer reported that he received a letter from Extension of D'Alessandro requesting an extension of time of eom- Contract No. 1 pletion on Contract No. 1 to June 30th. The season for the request is predicated on the many delays and difficulties encountered over which he had no control. Mr. Gayer explained this contract is for sewer and drain work in various places around town and recom- mended that the extension be granted. Upon motion of Mr. Maloney, seconded by Mi's. Morey, it was voted to grant the request and extend the date of completion on Anthony D'Alessandro & Sons ' Contract No. 1 to June 30, 1956. Loam Mr. Maloney said that he would like to diicuss loam Hastings for the Hastings School and read an excerpt from the School contract whereby the contractor is obligated to buy and furnish the loam. It was agreed to have Mr. Charles Cole, the archi- tect, Mr. Tocci the Contractor and Mr. Burns, former Suptt. of Public Works, meet in the Selectmen's Room some day to discuss the subject. Mr. Gayer retired at 9:55 P.M. Mrs. Morey reported that she spoke to Mr. Carroll Voting about the possibility of using the Public Works Build- ing for Precinct Fine voting rather than the Parker Scheel. Letter rias received from David F. Toomey, on behalf of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, requesting permission to conduct their Annual Poppy Drive on the evening of 439 May 24th and all day May 25th, Poppy Drive Upon motion of Mr. James, seconded by Mr. Maloney, it was voted to grant the request. The Chairman read a letter from Walter Channing, Inc. stating that they have recommended to the Avco Manu- facturing Company that Lexington would be a location Avco Zoning for their new plan. The Board gave further consideration to Mr. Salvator Ciecariello's offer of $2200 for lots 30 and 31 Hill- Tax title crest Street, Lexington. A proposal to sell these lots property was advertised in the April 26, 1956 issue of the Lex- ington Minute-Man. As a result of the advertisement, letter was received from Frank A. Yeomans, 956 Massachusetts Avenue, Lex- ington offering $1050 for these two lots. Upon motion of Mr. Maloney, seconded by Mr. James, it was voted to sell and convey lots 30 and 31 Hillcrest StreetLto Salvator Ciccariello, 4 Skeban Street, Somer- ville. Upon motion of Mr. Tucker, seconded by Mrs. Morey, it was voted to grant the following licenses: Lexington Theatre 1794 Mass. Ave. Sunday Movies Concord Hill'_Market 2219 Mass. Ave. Sunday Sales Licenses Village Variety Store 93 Mass. Ave. Sunday Sales Theron H. Gough 451 Concord Ave.Peddler Benjamin W. Berman 13 Mass. Ave. Junk Collector Vernon S. Rivet 135 Burlington Junk Collector St. Bedford The Chairman reported that he received a call from Charles E. Ferguson, Moderator, relative to the ap- Committee pointment of a member from the Board of Selectmen to serve on the Scheel Sites Committee. Mrs. Morey said that if the Moderator had to have a Selectmen on the Committee, she would be willing to rep- resent the Board. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to re-appoint William P. Fitzgerald a member of the Board Appointment of Fire Commissioners for a three-year term expiring • May 1, 1959. It was unanimously agreed to send a letter of com- mendation and appreciation to the Town Celebrations Committee for the time and effort involved in pre- ' 440 a , paration of the program for the observance of Patriots Day, April 19, 1956. The meeting adjourned at 10:25 P.M. A true record, Attest: —Exedutiye Secr =terry 1 1