HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-03-12-LHRC-min
Town of Lexington Human Rights Committee
Meeting Minutes for Wednesday, March 12, 2025, 9-11AM
LHRC MEMBERS PRESENT
Christina Lin, Chair (CL); Stephanie Hsu, Vice-Chair (SH); Stephanie Ryan (SR); Rachel Levy (RL); Judy
Zola (JZ)
Liaisons in attendance - Dana Bickelman, Human Services (DB); Mark Sandeen, Select Board (MS);
Eileen Jay, School Committee (EJ)
Guests: Susan Barrett, Town of Lexington Transportation Manager (SB)
The minutes recorded by Christina Lin
Meeting called to order at 9:00am
Guest speaker: Susan Barrett, Town of Lexington Transportation Manager
SB discussed work on improving transportation options in Lexington, educating
residents about public transit services, organizing training sessions for youth and
seniors, and coordinating the Safe Routes to School program to encourage walking and
biking to school. There will also be an author talk on May 29th featuring Anna Leticia
Sivarts, who wrote a book about transportation challenges for non-drivers “When
Driving is Not an Option.” The department is also working on translating transit
information into multiple languages and is seeking grant funding for digital signage on
buses. SB also provides updates on potential MBTA service improvements for Lexington
and advocates for better regional transportation planning.
Discussion on Warrant Articles:
● Article 23: Dispose of 116 Vine Street
The committee discussed the disposal of a 30,000 square foot parcel of land at 116
Vine Street, which is protected for affordable housing development. The committee
considered authorizing the town to relinquish the land for development. Members
voted in support of Article 23 by a vote of 5-0-0 (Yes, No, Abstain)
● Article 26: Local voting rights for lawful permanent residents (citizens
petition).
Members reviewed the Town Meeting slide presentation about Article 26 which
pointed out reasons why some permanent residents opt against obtaining
citizenship. Members also learned that successful passage of Article26 would not
automatically grant Lexington residents who are lawfully permanent residents the
1625 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE • LEXINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02420
right to vote, but it would be pending changes at state and federal policies. One
member raised concerns that this measure was pre-emptive and should come after
state l laws are first changed. Members votee in support by a vote of 4-1-0 (Yes, No,
Abstain)
● Article 27: Allow 16year olds voting rights in municipal elections
(citizens petition).
Members weighed in on whether 16 & 17 year olds are mature enough to be
informed, independent and rational voters. The committee emphasized the
importance of civic education for youth, even if not lowering the voting age. The
committee voted against Article 27 by a vote of 1-4-0 (Yes, No, Abstain)
● Article 2, Special Town Meeting (STM) - Citizens Petition
The Human Rights Committee discussed Article 2 STM, which proposes changes to
zoning and housing development in Lexington. Members express concerns that the
article goes too far in restricting housing production and may negatively impact
inclusionary and affordable housing. A straw poll showed the committee members
were divided about Article 2 STM. Instead, members agreed to create a statement
acknowledging the community's efforts at compromise while addressing
reservations about the article's impact on housing accessibility and diversity. A
follow-up meeting was scheduled for Friday, March 14th at 2:30pm to review a draft
statement (CL and RL to draft the statement).
Consideration for participation at Discovery Day
A committee member was interested in having LHRC presence at Discovery Day as a
way to promote awareness of the committee. The committee discussed participating in
Discovery Day on May 24th. They consider having a table to share information about
human rights and "know your rights" resources, potentially partnering with Human
Services. The group decided to further discuss details and messaging at an upcoming
working meeting before making a final decision. They also voted to create a new
working group on immigration rights, with RL as the liaison. Members acknowledged
that many local houses of worship are working in this area, too and may be a helpful
resource.
Meeting adjourned at 11:11am
1625 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE • LEXINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02420