HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-05-22-EDAC-minMay 22"d 2025 EDAC Meeting Minutes
Attendees: Rick DeAngelis, Steve Kaufman, Adrienne Ortyl, Jingshi Hu, Dave Pronchick,
Charlie Minasian, Justin Fleming
Select Board: Jill Hai, Joe Pato
Sandhya Iyer, lay Abdella
EDAC Membership Updates and Changes
The EDAC meeting began with Rick confirming a quorum and introducing new members,
including JS (Jingshi Hu) and Steve Kaufman, while noting the resignations of Bridger McGaw
and Lisa Murray. There is one open spot on the 8 -member panel.
Via Lago Closure and Community Impact
Rick discussed the closure of Via Lago, a long-standing restaurant in Lexington, due to rising
costs and a lack of concessions from the landlord. He highlighted the impact on the community
and suggested convening a meeting to engage stakeholders and explore economic
development opportunities. Sandhya provided an update on the center's current state,
mentioning new cafes and restaurants opening, as well as ongoing projects like wayfinding
signage and landscaping. She expressed optimism about the future of the center and the town's
efforts to revitalize it.
Lexington Economic Development Committee Meeting
The meeting began with Sandhya presenting current lab vacancy rates in Lexington, Cambridge,
and Boston, noting that Lexington's rate is 11.5%, while Cambridge's is 18.6%. The group
discussed economic development challenges, with Sandhya highlighting the need to address
high vacancy rates and potential developer interest. New committee members were
introduced, including Jingshi, Justin, Steve, Adrienne, and Charlie, each sharing their
professional backgrounds and experience relevant to the committee's work on economic
development and real estate in Lexington.
Economic Development Advisory Committee Update
The Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) meeting focused on the committee's
role and mission in supporting the town's economic development goals. Rick DeAngelis, a long-
time resident and committee member, emphasized the importance of collaboration,
cooperation, and commitment in achieving these goals. Jill Hai, the incoming chair of the Select
Board, encouraged the committee to review and update its charge to better align with current
town governance and needs. Joe Pato, a Select Board member, highlighted the committee's
role in advising on large-scale development opportunities and the need for collaboration with
other town committees. The meeting also touched on the current economic challenges facing
the town and the potential for future opportunities in economic development.
Lexington Town Center Development Updates
The Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) meeting focused on updates and
discussions about Lexington's town center and commercial development. Sandhya presented
an update on small businesses in Lexington, highlighting the town's efforts to revitalize the
center and maintain its 6% commercial land use. Rick emphasized Lexington's advantageous
geographic location, noting its proximity to major highways and its potential for future
development. The committee discussed the "Journey Forward" report and considered ways to
enhance the town center, including potential development projects and collaboration with
other committees.
Economic Development Charge Review Meeting
The Economic Development Advisory Committee discussed updating its charge and goals, with
Rick proposing a deep dive into the charge to align with the Select Board and economic
development director. Jill suggested collaboration with the Lexington Vision Committee for a 5 -
year community survey, while Steve raised questions about Lexington's economic development
strategy compared to neighboring towns. The committee agreed to move their next meeting to
June 26th at 8 AM due to Juneteenth.