HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-12-BOS-min 71-121
Selectmen's Meeting
December 4, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 7:21 p.m. on Monday,
December 4, 2017 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room of the Town Office Building following a
Joint Executive Session meeting with the School Committee and an intervening recess a recess,.
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.
Selectmen Concerns and Liaison Reports
Ms. Barry reported that she and Ms. Ciccolo attended two"getting involved" meetings over the
weekend: one on Saturday, with members of the Indian Americans of Lexington (IAL) and
another on Sunday with the Chinese American Association of Lexington (CAAL). The sessions
were intended to explain how the Town Government processes work and encourage members to
get involved.
Mr Pato reported that the Getting to Net Zero Task Force will host a presentation at the Cary
Memorial Building on December 6, 2017 at 7:00 p.m.
Town Manager Report
Mr. Valente announced that the very complicated Pine Grove/Judges Way condo conversion
concluded last week. The initiative allows the Town to retain 15 affordable units in perpetuity;
the properties will be overseen by the Lexington Housing Authority.
Verizon/Eversource Petition for Grant Location on Concord Avenue
Bill Wallace, representing Verizon, presented the petition to the Board of Selectmen, stating that
the reason for the new pole and the pole relocation is due to the Goddard School, a private school
project being built on Concord Avenue.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen approved the request by Verizon
and Eversource to place one (1) new JO pole, P.21-6A on southerly side of Concord Avenue
approximately 50' easterly from existing pole P.21-6. Pole and P. 21-6 to be relocated
approximately 3 P westerly from its existing location on the southerly side of Concord Ave.
Graduation for Citizens' Academy Participants
Mr. Hudson, Management Analyst for the Town of Lexington, introduced the latest group of 24
participants in the Citizens' Academy program who have now completed the 9-week course
requirements. To date, the Town has held Citizens' Academy classes for nine years with a total
of 205 graduates.
The Selectmen asked questions of the participants to gauge how well the program was received
and a lively exchange took place, demonstrating a high level of participant engagement and
satisfaction. The Selectmen encouraged the residents to vote, to become active on committees
and boards, and to closely follow the Town Meeting process.
71-122
Selectmen's Meeting–December 4, 2017
A commemorative photograph was taken of the Selectmen and graduates.
Water/Sewer Abatement Appeal— 51 SpringStreet
treet
Carolyn Kosnoff, Assistant Town Manager for Finance, presented the findings from an
investigation into reasons for an appeal made by the property owner of 51 Spring Street. A larger
than recommended abatement was requested from the Water/Sewer Abatement Board for water
the property owner used to irrigate a new lawn. In calculating abatements for situations such as
this one, the practice of the WSAB has been to review the consumption of prior billing periods
and apply a 70% consumption factor to the excess usage of the period in question. Of the usage
above the previous average, 70% is assumed to have been used for irrigation purposes.
After review, staff recommended that the Board continue with the irrigation abatement
methodology that has been in place for many years but also discovered consequently that a
formula error had been made, such that the amount abated should have been $747.59 rather than
$554.32. Ms. Kosnoff said other abatements for the same time period revealed no other formula
errors.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to support the past
practice of the Water Sewer Abatement Board used for water/sewer abatements for one-time
irrigation use, with the revised calculation as prepared by staff used for determining the amount
of the abatement for 51 Spring Street.
Approve RCN Contract Amendment
At the Board of Selectmen's meeting on October 30, 2017 meeting, the Board reviewed RCN's
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 and the attached "Report on Amendment to the RCN Cable TV Renewal
License Of June 30, 2009."
The required notice was published on November 9, 2017 in the Lexington Minuteman allowing
for a 21-day public period of review. No public comments were received.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve and sign the
proposed amendment as defined to Section 1.1 (28) and Exhibit 2 of the Cable Television Final
License granted to RCN on June 30, 2009; and further, to review and approve the Report of the
Board of Selectmen stating the reason for the Town taking the action to approved the cable
licensee's request to amend the license.
Annual License Renewals
This approval is the first of two annual rounds of license renewals. The next vote will take place
at the December 18, 2017 Selectmen's meeting.
71-123
Selectmen's Meeting—December 4, 2017
Mr. Kelley noted that there have been a variety of complaints about discrepancies in how liquor
service is being conducted at the Inn at Hastings Park. Since the owner has not returned to the
Board to ask for adjustments in her license, as she indicate she would do, Mr. Kelley withheld
his approval until modifications are made. Ms. Barry said that paperwork to modify the license
needed to be submitted before the renewal period; because it was not, it cannot be done now until
the next licensing cycle. Mr. Kelley said while he understands the logistics, he is nonetheless
unwilling to support the license renewal due to the lack of corrections and lack of commitment to
correct the issues on the part of the Inn.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve and sign the
license renewals identified as presented with the exception of the All Alcohol Inn holder license.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-1 to approve the All
Alcohol Inn Holder license as presented.
Review Charge for Ad Hoc Residential Exemption Study Committee
Mr. Pato presented revisions to the first draft of the ad hoc Residential Exemption Study
Committee charge, reflecting Selectmen input at the November 27, 2017 Board of Selectmen
meeting.
Mr. Kelley said he believes, even if the Town embarks on the process of residential tax
exemption, it will be difficult to define and satisfy the two fundamental intents of the Board
which are: 1)to provide relief for seniors who have cash flow challenges; and 2)to shield renters
from tax increases experienced by landlords whose properties would not fall under the
exemption. Additionally, he believes the exemption will be difficult for staff to administer.
Subsequently, he sees little value in forming the committee.
Ms. Ciccolo said she shares some of Mr. Kelley's concerns about unintended consequences but
also believes the study, as conducted by the ad hoc committee, will be valuable. The benefits
would not only be for seniors but also for those of low and moderate income. At the end of the
study committee's charge, the Selectmen might not support the exemption but it would have
deliberated the options armed with data.
Mr. Pato agreed, saying the committee would analyze the consequences of an exemption. The
current deferral program, while helpful, does not work for everyone. He added that the
exemption is not the only approach that should be examined for providing tax relief.
Mr. Lucente said he believes collecting the data will answer questions that are otherwise
unanswerable. Without the data, he is not sure what he thinks about an exemption and believes a
committee should be formed so that the process can be advanced.
Ms. Barry agreed and voiced support for forming the committee.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 4-1 to approve the
committee charge with the revisions presented.
71-124
Selectmen's Meeting–December 4, 2017
Designate Historical Districts Commission Ad Hoc 40C Study Committee Members as Special
Town Employees
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to designate Historic
Districts Commission Ad Hoc 40C Study Committee members as Special Municipal Employees.
Selectmen–Committee Appointments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen vote 5-0 to appoint Leslie Zales
to the Human Services Committee for a three-year term to expire September 30, 2020.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to appoint Mark
McConnell to the Noise Advisory Committee for a three-year term to expire September 30,
2020.
Consent Agenda
• Approve Tax Bill Insert
Mr. Kelley said he is in favor of doing the outreach with regard to the Property tax deferral
program but he would like to include a contact phone number, a catchier title, and have the insert
printed on eye-catching paper. Mr. Lucente concurred with Mr. Kelley's points. Mr. Valente
will pass on the input to relevant staff.
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to authorize the tax bill
insert regarding the tax deferral program as revised to be included with the 3rd quarter property
tax bill mailing.
• Use of Battle Green/Walk—Martin Luther King Day
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the request of
the Town Celebrations Committee/Martin Luther King Subcommittee for the MLK Day
Commemoration that includes use of the Battle Green approximately at 11:00 a.m. with a Unity
Walk along Massachusetts Avenue to the Cary Memorial Building. The event should end at
approximately 2:00 p.m. Staff has reviewed and approved this request.
• Approve One-Day Liquor License
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve a request for a
one-day liquor license from the Friends of the Council on Aging to serve wine on Saturday,
January 13, 2018 from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. for the purpose of the Launch of Literary
Journal reception at the Community Center.
71-125
Selectmen's Meeting–December 4, 2017
• Approve and Sign Eagle Congratulation Letter—Theodore John Kirby
On motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to send a letter of
commendation congratulating Theodore John Kirby for attaining the highest rank of Eagle in
Boy Scouting.
Before adjourning, Mr. Valente reported the unofficial tally of the debt exclusion votes indicates
all three questions have passed.
Ad,ourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at
approximately 8:18 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary
71-126
Selectmen's Meeting
December 6, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called to order at 5:10 p.m. on Wednesday,
December 6, 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.
Approve FYI Tax Rate/Minimum Residential Factor
This is the third of three meetings to establish the FYI tax rate.
On November 13, 2017, the Board of Assessors presented information to the Board of Selectmen
on factors that will affect the determination of the Fiscal Year 2018 tax rate.
On November 27, 2017, the Board held the tax classification hearing, to consider tax rate setting
options available under property tax classification and to take public comment on classification.
Tonight's meeting is for the Board to set the FYI tax rate. The Board must take four votes:
• Establish a residential factor(see Exhibit A);
• Determine whether to adopt the Open Space Discount;
• Determine whether to adopt the Residential Exemption and, if so, the percentage (up to
35 percent);
• Determine whether to adopt the Small Commercial Exemption.
Presenters for this item were Carolyn Kosnoff, Assistant Town Manager for Finance; Greg
Johnson, Chairman, Board of Assessors; Ed Grant, Member of the Board of Assessors; Rob
Lent, Director of Assessing.
One key difference between this presentation and the second that was presented on November
27, 2017 is that this version includes property values that have been approved by the Department
of Revenue. Ms. Kosnoff noted a second difference related to a decrease in the debt exclusion.
Otherwise, there have been no substantive changes.
Mr. Pato said he supports the 1.75 residential factor. He noted, however, that although New
Growth is generally a good thing, the way commercial personal property values function over
time can have a deleterious effect. As they depreciate, their once full value, now embedded in the
tax base, shifts toward the other classifications, such as the residential tax category. As the Town
budgets and plans into the future, Mr. Pato would like to look at commercial personal property,
and how it effects the residential tax burden, with the goal of developing a strategy to possibly
mitigate the burden, particularly on residential taxes.
Ms. Ciccolo said this observation is insightful and agreed the issue is important to examine. She
also supports the 1.75 shift for now and noted that 1.75 is the highest percentage allowed by the
71-127
Selectmen's Meeting—December 6, 2017
Department of Revenue. She observed that most of the other tax classifications, besides the
residential, have seen decreases in their tax bills even though the tax rates are rising. Ms. Barry
pointed out that town-wide retail is not seeing a tax decrease and it is important for residents to
support Lexington's businesses.
Mr. Kelley, Mr. Lucente, and Ms. Barry also supported the 1.75%. Mr. Lucente said he would
like to learn more about the personal property issue Mr. Pato spoke of.
Ms. Ciccolo said she did not support a Small Commercial exemption this year but the question
requires further study since the retail category is experiencing tax increases that can be
burdensome. Mr. Pato noted that a study was done three years ago and found that an exemption
would have only a small effect. Ms. Ciccolo noted that one of the reasons for this was that the
exemption applied only to businesses with fewer than 10 employees and under $1M in assets.
Perhaps special legislation will be necessary. Mr. Pato and Ms. Ciccolo agreed to work together
in this effort.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted to establish a residential
factor of 1.903903, which results in a tax shift of 1.75.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 not to adopt the Open
Space Discount.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 not to adopt the
Residential Exemption.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 not to adopt the Small
Commercial Exemption.
Adi ourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at
approximately 5:28 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary
71-128
Budget Summit Meeting 3
Board of Selectmen, School Committee, Appropriation Committee,
and Capital Expenditures Committee
December 7, 2017
A Budget Summit was held Thursday, December 7, 2017 at 7:03 p.m. in the Samuel Hadley
Public Services Building Cafeteria, 201 Bedford Street. Board of Selectmen (BOS): Ms. Barry,
(Chair); Mr. Kelley; Mr. Pato, and Mr. Lucente were present. Ms. Ciccolo arrived at 7:35 p.m.
Also present were Mr. Valente, Town Manager; Ms. Kosnoff, Assistant Town Manager Finance;
Ms. Hewitt, Budget Officer; and Ms. Katzenback, Executive Clerk.
Also present: School Committee (SC) members: Ms. Jay (Vice Chair), Ms. Steigerwald and Ms.
Lenihan; Appropriation Committee (AC) members: Mr. Bartenstein (Chair); Ms. Basch, Mr.
Levine, Mr. Michelson, Mr. Neumeier, Mr. Padaki, Mr. Radulescu-Banu, Ms. Yan and Ms.
Yang. Capital Expenditures Committee (CEC) members: Mr. Lamb (Chair); Ms. Beebee, Mr.
Kanter; and Mr. Smith.
Ms. Barry called the meeting to order at 7:04 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.
Financial Condition Presentation
Mr. Valente distributed a packet of information that included an evaluation of the Town of
Lexington's fiscal health, presented through a series of indicators and, where appropriate,
comparative benchmarks. Mr. Valente stated the Town's financial condition is relatively strong,
school enrollment continues to grow and fixed costs are fairly stable.
Mr. Valente highlighted the following indicators from the FY2019 Summit III Financial
Indicators Presentation:
• Indicator I.1: Revenues—noting revenue growth has been positive.
• Indicator I.2: State Aid—citing State funding requirement for education has been met in
2018.
• Indicator I.5: Uncollected Property Taxes—explaining bond rating agencies generally
consider uncollected taxes in excess of 5% as a warning trend. Lexington maintains a
favorable position on this indicator.
• Indicator I.11(a): Projected Exempt Debt Service— showing the residential share of Net
Exempt Debt Service per Lexington Household.
• Indicator I.13: Reserves and Fund Balance— stating the Town of Lexington has strengthened
its reserve position by augmenting and transferring money into the Stabilization Funds.
• Indicator 1.13(a): Use of Capital Stabilization Fund. — affirming Lexington has been building
a balance in its Capital Stabilization Fund as a means to offset the impact to taxpayers from a
number of anticipated construction projects.
Proposed FYI Revenue Allocation Model
Mr. Valente presented the FY2019 Revenue Allocation model and reported that the projected
revenue for FYI is approximately $222 million. After fixed costs and other allocations,
71-129
Budget Summit#3 —December 7, 2017
approximately $9.4 million in incremental revenue is available to add to the FY19 operating
budget appropriation for schools and municipal budgets. That incremental revenue amount is
allocated at 74.1%to the school side and 25.9%to the municipal side. The school share of
incremental FY19 revenue is approximately $7 million, a 6.9%increase over FYI 8, and the
municipal share is approximately $2.4 million, also a 6.9%increase over FYI 8.
Mr. Kanter asked that certain items, such as ax levy support of the Community Center Program,
be discussed to determine whether they should be included above the line as shared expenses or
be funded from within the revised, below-the-line, allocation to the FY19 municipal budget.
A recess was taken at approximately 8:20 p.m. to allow each Board to caucus to discuss their
respective positions regarding items for inclusion above/below the line. The meeting resumed at
8:29 p.m. Mr. Kanter stated that three members of the Capital Expenditures Committee
members would like to see further analysis regarding the tax levy support of the Community
Center in the FY19 budget. Ms. Steigerwald indicated that given the School Committee does not
have full presence at tonight's meeting they would like further information presented at a future
meeting in order to take a position. Mr. Bartenstein reported that five members of the
Appropriation Committee were in favor of keeping the status quo and four members would want
to see further information, if provided. Ms. Barry stated the Board of Selectmen would like more
analysis provided on the Community Center prior to taking a position.
Returning to the presentation on the FY19 Revenue Allocation Model, Mr. Valente stated that a
.6%increase is projected in health insurance benefits from FY18 to FY19. Mr. Valente also
noted that a 4.8% increase in debt service is projected for next year with what Town Meeting has
already approved for debt related capital and what may be coming forward. Mr. Valente said
that $2.5 million is recommended to go into the Debt Service/Capital Stabilization Fund and that
$1 million has been set aside for unallocated/unidentified needs for FY2019.
Confirm Date for Summit 4
Ms. Barry stated the Summit 4 meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 24, 2018 at 7:00
p.m. in the Samuel Hadley Public Services Building Cafeteria, 201 Bedford Street.
Documents Presented
1. FY2019 Summit III Financial Indicators Presentation
2. Revenue Allocation Model Presentation
Ad,ourn
Upon motions duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at approximately 8:50 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Katzenback
Executive Clerk
71-130
Selectmen's Meeting
December 18, 2017
A meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen was called back to order at 7:15 p.m. on
Wednesday, December 18, 2017 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room of the Town Office Building,
following a Joint Session with the Planning Board and 15-minute recess. 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.
Public Comment
Dawn McKenna, 9 Hancock Street/Precinct 6 Town Meeting member, reported that a resident
was injured from a fall that occurred while walking on Grove Street near the corner of Diamond
Road. The resident does not want to take any action but he believes the drop off and unlit
sidewalk are hazardous and should be addressed. Mr. Valente will forward this information to
relevant staff and update the Board at a later date.
Selectmen Concerns and Liaison Reports
Ms. Barry said LexHab's application for a comprehensive permit for the Lowell Street project
"Farmview" was unanimously approved by the Zoning Board of Appeals on December 14, 2017
after a two-hour public hearing and deliberation.
Ms. Barry announced that the School Committee has narrowed the candidate pool to three
finalists for a new Superintendent: Glenn Brand, the former Superintendent from Acton-
Boxborough; Julie Hackett, the Superintendent from Taunton; and Bella Wong, Superintendent
for Lincoln-Sudbury. Public interviews will be held in January; interested residents should be on
the alert for notifications. Lexington's current Superintendent, Dr. Czajkowski, is retiring at the
end of June.
Ms. Barry thanked her colleagues on the Board, Town staff, and the Lexington community for
hard work, dedication, and support in the past calendar year that has seen many challenges and
accomplishments.
Town Manager Report
An update on the Woburn Street project is tentatively scheduled for the January 22, 2018
Selectmen's meeting.
Town Engineers are working on a revision to the 25% design of the Center Streetscape project.
A review is tentatively scheduled for the February 26 Selectmen's meeting. Mr. Valente is
attempting to identify five of the original ad hoc Center Streetscape Committee willing to remain
on the project through the 25%phase. This continuity is intended to ensure DPW work aligns
with the committee's work.
Tentative dates for Town Meeting Member Association information nights are:
71-131
Selectmen's Meeting–December 18, 2017
Wednesday, March 14, Thursday, March 15, and Wednesday, March 21. Mr. Valente asked the
Selectmen to let him know their availability. He will also pass on these dates on to the Planning
Board and School Committee. The first night of Annual Town Meeting is scheduled for Monday,
March 26, 2018.
Consider Resolution in Support of House Bill 1194/ Senate Bill 1225—End of Life Options Act
Michael Martignetti, 37 Barberry Road, bill proponent, asked the Selectmen to consider
endorsing a non-binding resolution in support of Massachusetts House Bill 1194/Massachusetts
Senate Bill 1225: "End of Life Options Act". As stated in the resolution, approximately 62% of
Lexington residents who voted in the 2012 referendum Question #2, voted in favor of Aid in
Dying in a year that saw an 83%voter turnout. Recently, the Massachusetts Medical
Society dropped their long-standing opposition to physician assisted suicide, took on the
language of medical aid in dying, and adopted a position of"neutral engagement". Cambridge,
Provincetown, Northampton and Amherst have already passed this resolution.
Ms. Ciccolo said she has spoken with Mr. Martignetti about the bills and has come to understand
that protective safeguards are now in place. She believes these revisions have created well-
developed, thoughtful, and humane legislation. Mr. Martignetti noted that Representative
Kaufman and Senator Barret support the bills.
Mr. Kelley voiced support for the legislation. Mr. Pato also supports the legislation now that
safeguards for vulnerable populations are included and with the community support
demonstrated at the polls. Mr. Lucente concurred, adding that the subject is no longer the
lightning rod it once was.
Kay Tiffany, 109 Reed Street, said the subject was dear to her heart and she is gratified that
Lexington's Selectmen support it.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to support and endorse
a non-binding resolution in support of Massachusetts House Bill 1194 and Massachusetts Senate
Bill 1225 the "end of Life Options Act".
Discussion of PACE Program
Mark Sandeen, Chair of Sustainable Lexington, presented information about the PACE program.
The Board of Selectmen is being asked to authorize the Town Manager to enter into an
agreement with MassDevelopment, the program administrator that will allow Lexington's
commercial property owners an option for upgrading their facilities. Property Assessed Clean
Energy (PACE) is a clean energy, third party loan program for business owners who are
interested in completing energy efficiency upgrades, installing renewable energy, and reducing
carbon output. Enabling legislation was passed by the State Legislature last year. The program
has the unanimous support of Lexington's Getting to Net Zero Task Force and the Economic
Development Advisory Committee. If the Board is interested in pursuing this program further,
71-132
Selectmen's Meeting–December 18, 2017
staff will determine whether Munis, the Town's property tax billing system, can accommodate
the billing aspect.
Mr. Valente said staff received a PACE presentation from MassDevelopment and were
comfortable, in general, with the program. Entering into PACE would not require Town Meeting
approval. The matter can come back before the Selectmen in January.
Ms. Ciccolo said she has been following the PACE program for some time and is excited about
it. She would like to move ahead quickly.
Mr. Kelley also supports the program and asked if property owners could collaborate and share
the cost/benefits of investment. He asked if the program would act something like a betterment
that is paid for incrementally over time via the tax bill. Mr. Sandeen said be believes it possible
for property owners could team up and that the loan payments were similar to betterments,
already familiar to Lexington taxpayers.
Ms. Barry also approved of the program and awaits further information in January.
Mr. Pato said he also intends to vote yes and noted that the program's start is anticipated in mid-
January.
Mr. Lucente said he also supports the program and asked if there is a limit to how many can sign
up for the program. Mr. Sandeen said there is no limit.
David Kanter, 48 Fifer Lane, asked if homeowners' associations could participate. Mr. Sandeen
said multifamily facilities over 4 units are considered commercial and do qualify.
Dawn McKenna, Chair of the Tourism Committee, asked if the PACE program could be one of
the funding mechanisms for the Visitors Center. Mr. Sandeen said it could be but he is not sure
how property assessment works for a non-profit entity. He expects to hear back from
MassDevelopment on this issue. Mr. Valente said he would have to think about how this would
be applicable to the Visitors Center since use of fossil fuels is already not planned for the facility.
Recognize Sustainable Lexington—Leadership by Example Award
On November 30, 2017, the Town of Lexington and the Sustainable Lexington Committee were
presented with one of the two 2017 Leading By Example (LBE) awards for municipalities by
Governor Baker and Lt. Governor Polito at the State House. The Commonwealth's LBE Awards
recognize outstanding efforts among Commonwealth agencies, public colleges and universities,
and municipalities that have implemented policies and programs that have led to significant and
measurable environmental and energy benefits.
The Board recognized the Sustainable Lexington Committee (Todd Rhodes, Marcia Gens, Rick
Reibstein, Dan Voss [in absentia] and Town staff(including Carl Valente, Town Manager; Dave
Pinsonneault, DPW Director; Shawn Newell, Assistant Director of Public Facilities)for
receiving the 2017 LBE Award.
71-133
Selectmen's Meeting–December 18, 2017
The Board and Mr. Valente thanked everyone involved for their efforts on behalf of the Town
and congratulated the group.
Review and Approve 2018 Fee Schedule for Recreation/Community Programs
Ms. Battite, Director of Recreation and Community Programs; and Ms. Dean, Community
Center Director, gave the annual review of the department's fee schedule. There are nine
categories of services; of them, the current field permit fee schedule, updated in 2014, is the sole
category not slated for increase.
Selectmen agreed the increases as presented were reasonable.
Ms. Barry asked if scholarships are available. Ms. Battite said financial aid is available and this
program was updated about six months ago. Families or residents need only apply once a year
rather than by program and there is now no limit on the number of activities that can be
undertaken. The former maximum subsidy was 50%; now there is instead a sliding scale that
takes into account the level of need.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adopt the 2018
recreation fee schedule as proposed.
Continue Discussion—Solid Waste and Recycling Collection Program
David Pinsonneault, Public Works Director, and Robert Beaudoin, Environmental Services
Superintendent, asked the Board for direction on how to move forward with the new solid waste
contract. Two different scenarios currently exist: 1) a five-year contract for manual trash
collection and manual single stream recycling collection; and 2) a six-year contract for manual
trash collection and automated recycling collection.
Mr. Pinsonneault said that the automated recycling system would encourage more recycling by
replacing the small bins currently used with larger capacity wheeled carts. In this scenario, the
six-year contract would allow for a one-year start up period that keeps the status quo collection
system while the public is educated about the new, automated recycling collection system. If the
Board decides it wants to pursue a manual trash/automated recycling system, the vendor would
need to know by October 2018 for implementation in July 2019.
Mr. Lucente asked, if the status quo system was retained, whether the vendor would agree to
residents using a larger recycling bin than the one currently used, which are often not big
enough. Mr. Beaudoin said a larger bin should be acceptable. Mr. Pinsonneault said, if an
automated recycling system is adopted, the prevailing thought is to use the 96-gallon cart to
promote an increase in recycling but there would be a provision for residents to opt for a smaller
cart. Mr. Lucente said, given the apparent multitude of options, he would like to know what they
all are before deciding. He is happy, however, that there are options for people who want a
smaller wheeled recycling bin.
71-134
Selectmen's Meeting–December 18, 2017
Mr. Pato said he, too, is interested in the option for a smaller than 96-gallon recycling bin for
those that need/want less weight and capacity. He likes option #2 because it provides time and
flexibility to consider automated vs. manual recycling. Before making a decision, he would want
to go through the list of concerns expressed by the community to make sure the Town has solid
responses to all of them.
Ms. Barry said it is good to acknowledge that recycling is de facto single stream but she asked
whether the Town would need to provide more totes if the system remained manual/manual. Mr.
Beaudoin said people could continue to use the current recycling bins or put a"Recycling"
sticker on a larger bin of their choosing. Given that response, Ms. Barry said she is also leaning
toward option #2.
Mr. Kelley said he is for manual pick up of both trash and recycling because it is important the
individual citizen concerns are accommodated.
Ms. Ciccolo leaned toward option #2 as well but also noted a desire to serve individual needs.
She asked for another information session to be scheduled where the different bin sizes could be
examined by residents. She asked about whether once-a-week, aggregate compost collection
could be considered since that would reduce tonnage and tipping fees for the Town and put
organic waste to better use. Mr. Pato noted that a composting service, Black Earth, is used by the
Schools and residents can coordinate with the vendor to participate in a fee-for-service curbside
pick-up program.
David Kanter, 48 Fifer Lane, said he has yet to see a viable plan for how automated pick up can
be accomplished in non-linear developments. He is reluctant to leave the particulars up to the
vendor. Since this concern remains unresolved, he prefers the manual/manual status quo system
with a built-in option to re-evaluate once concerns have been addressed.
Mr. Kelley said, now that the Town has determined that the system will remain at least partially
manual, there may be savings for the vendor who will not have to invest in automated
equipment. In this event, he believes a vendor might be open to a longer-term contract that could
hold down/stabilize costs.
Consider Request for New Street Lights—Lincoln Street
Mr. Pinsonneault, Director of Public Works, said Public Works was approached by residents of
the new Lincoln Woods Development to add additional streetlights on Lincoln Street, from the
Rt. 128 overpass to Grey Oaks Circle. DPW staff reviewed the area and concurs with this
request to add 5 LED lights in this section of Lincoln Street. The streetlight vendor has
confirmed that the addition of lights is possible at this location and the Police have agreed that
streetlights are warranted in the area. The proposed funding source is the DPW Operating
budget.
71-135
Selectmen's Meeting—December 18, 2017
Mr. Kelley said, with interest in additional development in this area, there may be practical
reasons to install more than 5 lights. Mr. Pinsonneault said he would have the vendor look into
the matter.
Mr. Pato said the request seems necessary and useful, although it is near the Cambridge
Reservoir. He asked if there are wildlife considerations. Mr. Pinsonneault said he is unaware of
any.
Mr. Lucente asked for clarification on what costs the Town would absorb. Mr. Pinsonneault said
the Town's streetlight program would cover the $4,500 installation fee. Ongoing costs would be
nominal charges from Eversource to power the lights. Mr. Lucente said he will support the
additional lights with the understanding that the existing streetlights will continue to be
maintained diligently. He believes a database of light repairs should be available to residents.
Mr. Pinsonneault said the department website has been updated so that the page to report light
outages includes a direct phone number/email address for the staff that handle this work.
Mr. Kelley asked if all streetlights in Town will be converted to LED. Mr. Pinsonneault said
induction lighting is still being used but the Town is looking into a pilot program and grants to
fund LED conversion. The Center Streetscape project would use LED lighting throughout the
Town Center. When a light is converted to a more efficient technology, Eversource is alerted to
change its billing formula.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the addition
of new streetlights on Lincoln Street as proposed.
Authorize LexHab to Act as Town's Agent for Rehabilitation of 241 Grove Street
Mr. Valente said when the Town purchased the Wright Farm Property at 241 Grove Street, the
intent was that a portion of the land and barn would be transferred to the Conservation
Commission for conservation purposes and the house would be transferred to LexHab for
affordable housing. This land split is in progress and will be done by ANR(Approval Not
Required). Until the land split happens and the Chapter 40B Comprehensive Permit is issued by
the ZBA, however, LexHab does not control the house lot. On its own, therefore, it cannot file
for a building permit. LexHab is ready to begin the renovation of the house and is requesting
that the Board of Selectmen authorize them to undertake this work prior to the formal split of the
lot.
Mr. Kennedy from LexHab was present for the vote and to answer any questions.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen enthusiastically voted 5-0 to
authorize LexHab to undertake renovation work of the Town-owned home at 241 Grove Street
and to authorize the Town Manager to approve and sign any permit documents as required.
71-136
Selectmen's Meeting–December 18, 2017
Consider Potential Modifications—Revenue Allocation Formula
Mr. Valente and Ms. Kosnoff, Assistant Town Manager for Finance, provided background on
this review of possible modifications to the FY19 Revenue Allocation model requested at
Financial Summit 3. In general, the participating committees wished to see the impact of:
• Capital Expenditures Committee: Moving tax support of Community Center to the
municipal budget;
• School Committee: Moving tax support of the Community Center, Senior Tax Program;
Net Zero Program, Building Envelope and Street Improvements to the municipal budget.
For consistency, we have moved Municipal Building Envelope to the municipal budget
and School Building Envelope to the School budget.
• Appropriation Committee: 5 members preferred the current methodology remain in
effect; and
• Board of Selectmen: Moving tax support of Community Center to the municipal budget.
Selectmen at first suggested leaving the model as is rather than to modify it noting, as calculated,
that the modification options do not demonstrate substantive benefit.
David Kanter, Capital Expenditures Committee, said there would be a philosophical benefit from
choosing another allocation model even if the financial benefit did not seem worthwhile. He
urged the Board not to focus solely on bottom line considerations and to think about setting a
consistent policy for the future.
Ms. Ciccolo said her understanding of why the Community Center operational funds were held
aside and kept separately is that it made for easier tracking. In the past, Recreation programs
were funded 100%by fees; with a change in that model, the Board wanted to make sure costs
were transparent. With this in mind, and the community's obvious support for funding part of the
Community Center operations via the tax levy, Ms. Ciccolo said she would be fine with going
with Option #2 of the proffered modifications.
Mr. Valente agreed that transparency is a goal. Another consideration is that there are now
programs for which a fee cannot be set, such as drop-in activities that require staff. Mr. Valente
said, to fund these in the old way, Recreation fees for other programs would have been raised to
cover non-fee programs. These drop-in programs are considered valuable to the whole
community. This funding strategy was originally approved by former school superintendent, Dr.
Ash, and former Assistant Town Manager for Finance, Rob Adelman.
Dawn McKenna, 9 Hancock Street, said she believes the Community Center expenses can
continue to be tracked even if the cost is categorized as shared with the Schools.
71-137
Selectmen's Meeting–December 18, 2017
On a second round of consensus gathering, Ms. Ciccolo, Mr. Kelley, and Ms. Barry agreed to
support Option#2—Move Community Center to Municipal; Mr. Pato and Mr. Lucente
supported the status quo model as presented at Summit III.
Entertainment License—Inn at Hastings Park
The Inn at Hastings Park has requested an Entertainment License for New Year's Eve to have
live music; the Town Manager has approved the request.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the request
of the Inn at Hastings Park for an Entertainment License for live music on New Year's Eve until
1:00 AM on January 1, 2018.
Selectmen's Reappointments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to re-appoint Robert
Adams to the Historic Districts Commission for a 5-year term to expire December 31, 2022.
Annual License Renewals
The list of annual license renewals as presented includes several liquor licenses that will only be
released once all requirements have been met.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve and sign the
license renewals as presented.
Future Meeting Dates
The Board reviewed a tentative January—June 2018 meeting schedule.
Consent Agenda
• Disclosure by Town Manager of Financial Interest(MGL C, 286A, Section 9)
Ms. Barry is recused from this vote as her husband is an employee of the Town.
As the Town Manager's appointing authority, as required by G.L. c. 268A, § 19, the Board has
reviewed the particular matter and the financial interest identified above by the Town Manager
and voted 4-0 that the financial interest is not so substantial as to be deemed likely to affect the
integrity of the services which the municipality may expect from the employee.
• Approve One-Day Liquor Licenses
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve 2 one-day
liquor licenses to serve beer and wine: Maddie's Mission, Saturday, January 6, 2018 from 7:30
p.m. until 11:30 p.m. for the purpose of Maddie's Mission Awareness fundraiser being held at
Temple Emenuah; and Spectacle Management, Saturday January 20, 2018 from 7:00 p.m. until
11:00 p.m. for a performance Lenny Clarke being held at Cary Memorial Building.
71-138
Selectmen's Meeting—December 18, 2017
• Water& Sewer Commitments
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve the
following Water& Sewer commitments: Water& Sewer Commitment Section 3 for
$4,996,894.53: Water& Sewer Commitment October final water bills for $ 21,723.14; Water&
Sewer Commitment November Cycle 9 Billing for $263,152.24; and Water& Sewer
Commitment November 2017 final water bills for $17,643.67.
• Approve Minutes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to approve and release
the minutes with minor non-substantive changes of. August 15, 2017 Joint Meeting
BOS/PBC/Sustainable Lex; and regular meetings of the Board of Selectmen of September 18,
2017; September 25, 2017; October 2, 2017; October 11, 2017; October 12, 2017, October 16,
2017; October 17, 2017; October 18, 2017; October 30, 2017; November 6, 2017; November 13,
2017; November 20, 2017, and November 27, 2017.
And, further, to approve but not release the executive minutes, with minor non-substantive
changes, from September 18, 2017; September 25, 2017; September 27, 2017; October 11, 2017;
and October 30, 2017.
Executive Session
Upon motion duly made and by roll call, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 at 9:08 p.m. to enter
Executive Session under Exemption 6 to consider the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real
property located at Emerson Gardens, and to reconvene in Open Session only to
adjourn. Further, it was declared that an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the
negotiating position of the Town.
Add ourn
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to adjourn at
approximately 9:24 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary
71-139
Joint Selectmen and Planning Board Meeting
December 18, 2017
A joint meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen and the Lexington Planning Board was
called to order at 5:45 p.m. on Monday, December 18, 2017 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room of
the Town Office Building. Ms. Barry, Chair; Mr. Kelley; Mr. Pato; Ms. Ciccolo (late arrival);
and Mr. Lucente were present for the Board of Selectmen as well as Mr. Valente, Town
Manager; and Ms. Siebert, Recording Secretary.
Present for the Planning Board were Mr. Canale, Chair; Mr. Creech(late arrival); Ms. Corcoran-
Ronchetti; Mr. Hornig; Ms. Johnson; Mr. Leon (Associate member); and Mr. Henry, Planning
Director.
Also present: Megan Zammuto, Economic Development Coordinator.
Hartwell Avenue Zoning Initiative
Ms. Zammuto, Economic Development Coordinator, provided background to the Hartwell
Avenue zoning initiative, intended to enhance the commercial environment of the northern
portion of Hartwell Avenue. This specific area was targeted due to its relative proximity to
transportation (the highway, the MBTA bus route, and the Minuteman Bike Path) and limited
complications from wetlands and Hanscom flight path height restrictions.
A working group made up of members of the Board of Selectmen (Ms. Ciccolo, Mr. Pato) and
the Planning Board (Mr. Hornig, Mr. Creech) met during the fall to discuss various options for
Hartwell Avenue. At tonight's meeting, findings and recommendations from the two consultants,
David Gamble, principal/architect and urban designer with Gamble and Associates and Pam
McKinney, principal/real estate consultant with Byrne McKinney, also working on the initiative,
will be reviewed. Mr. Gamble said his part of the presentation would focus on "form" and Ms.
McKinney's would center on"finance".
Mr. Gamble said that development pressures are increasing in locations that have amenities,
open space, trails, historic environments, and access to transportation. The Hartwell Avenue
target area has many of these desired qualities but is in need of better cohesiveness as an area,
modernization of the built environment, improved connections to the natural surroundings,
additional amenities, and enhanced general attractiveness. Some of strategies to provide
amenities do not necessarily require"development intensity." Even temporary structures (such as
shipping containers) or events (such as food trucks) can enhance the appeal of workplace
environments.
The street itself, Mr. Gamble said, could become more attractive and be a way to rebrand
Hartwell Avenue by creating a sense of campus where one currently does not exist. The wide
Hartwell Avenue set back creates a distance of 120 feet between front door facings. This space
could become more connected and engaging by adding sidewalks, eliminating vast areas of
surface parking, building infill annexes for program externalization, adding greenspace and
landscaping, and the like. Zoning revision and incentives, such as mixed use that includes
residential space, can address some of the issues.
71-140
Joint Meeting—December 18, 2017
Mr. Gamble asked the Board of Selectmen and Planning Board to consider several concepts:
• The natural environment, including the wetlands and the bike path, are huge amenities
that set the area apart from other, competing areas. Open spaces should not be thought of
as a"backdoor". The Kiln Brook is an unutilized asset. Augmentation of the Minuteman
Bike Path, with additional trails that connect the campus buildings and take advantage of
the natural areas that are now difficult to access, would make the area more cohesive;
• Consider ways to improve/increase public transportation alternatives;
• Underutilized land on the front, back, and sides of these properties can be used in ways
that change the interface and rebrand the area.
• Think about Hartwell Avenue as part of a contiguous neighborhood;
• Do not think of the Hartwell Avenue roadway as a divide. The walkable distance end to
end of the target area are comparable to the Burlington Mall which is considered by many
to have a walkable scale;
• Improvement initiatives will build on one another over time.
Mr. Gamble cautioned that not everything needs to happen all at once. Certain "anchor"
properties, notably those at the northern most part of Hartwell Avenue and where the bike trail
crosses the road, can lead the way to the transformation. Also, if one or two of the properties is
encouraged to build out toward the streetadding food establishments, administrative offices
this infill development would go a long way toward changing the visual character.
Challenges foreseen:
• Competition with other regional locations;
• Zoning limitations;
• Mixed-use pushback due to impacts on municipal services and schools;
• Challenging intersections coupled with a racetrack-like thoroughfare.
Vacancy rates, on the average, are currently 20%for so-called flex space and 30% in the office
space category. Quite a few properties are for sale or vacant.
What are the potentials?
• The bike path is important now for transportation and health and wellness and it will be
more so in the future;
• Infrastructure improvements, some already in the planning stages, will help change the
way that bicycles, cars, and pedestrians interact;
• An asphalt audit and reassessment of parking ratios could improve aesthetics, stormwater
management, and wetland protection.
Ms. McKinney said, with investment and additional consideration for the environment, Hartwell
Avenue is well-positioned to become a desirable business location that can directly compete for
with other locations such as Alewife in Cambridge, Boston's Seaport, and the updated Waltham
commercial area. But, small incremental change will not be enough to establish and maintain
71-141
Joint Meeting—December 18, 2017
Hartwell Avenue's place in the tech market. Mixed-use that includes residential is an appealing
model for Lexington; smaller-sized units will not have a high impact on the school system.
Infusing Hartwell Avenue with residential households will also provide a viable base for service-
and amenities-based businesses that would not otherwise thrive with daytime customers alone.
Next steps in the process:
• Create a vision for Hartwell Avenue that will last over time;
• Consider ideas and test prototypical development to determine how zoning might be
revised;
• Consider amenities and services that will not compete with current downtown Lexington
businesses.
Planning Board member reactions:
Mr. Canale stated that Mr. Gamble's renderings reflect much of what the Planning Board has
envisioned for Hartwell Avenue North. In 2009, a public process to re-envision Hartwell Avenue
took place and participants enthusiastically supported this kind of change. However, as time
went on, the practicalities of how to advance the vision became stumbling blocks. The
infrastructure of an "unfriendly streetscape" has been problematic but the Town has recently
succeeded in leveraging $30M in roadway improvements. Mr. Canale does not view regulatory
issues as major impediments because current zoning already allows for greater density.
Mr. Creech was also enthusiastic about the vision, saying he would like to see the buildings
pulled closer to the road. He applauds the lack of telephone poles in the renderings but would
like to see more trees in the streetscape. He believes if one or two businesses can be encouraged
to make structural and landscaping changes, others will follow.
Ms. Johnson said she endorses the vision but the practicalities are difficult. The natural
environment is important to Lexington and is seen as a quality of life issue. She is hopeful the
process will highlight these values and provide incentives for investment. Ms. Johnson is
concerned about commercial vacancy rates when the goal is to bring more revenue to the Town.
She is not sure that a"build it and they will come" strategy is advisable before it can be
confidently demonstrated that the return on investment will justify the effort. Ms. Johnson
advocated for a so-called Triple Bottom Line approach: planet, people, and profit, which include
concepts like stormwater management that creates new streams and greenspaces. Finally, Ms.
Johnson wants to see how this proposal fits into the Comprehensive Plan; it concerns her that one
small area of Lexington is being considered outside of the larger framework.
Ms. Corcoran-Ronchetti said she appreciated the presentation and believes the Hartwell initiative
and the Comprehensive Plan can be done on dual tracks. She agreed wholeheartedly that more
could be done with Hartwell Avenue.
Mr. Hornig said he, too, is excited to see some of the same concepts being presented that were
discussed in the public process in 2009, along with other ideas that provide good direction for re-
envisioning the area. The next step, as he sees it, is to do public outreach which will provide a lot
of input and should be done in parallel with the Comprehensive Plan. With the most recent debt
exclusion vote and increasing residential tax burden concerns, Mr. Hornig feels mitigation for
71-142
Joint Meeting—December 18, 2017
residents is imperative. The Town Meeting warrant deadline is in less than two weeks, and he
believes relief of some kind should be provided sooner than these newer concepts can be
achieved. He also believes that the presented commercial initiatives should not be confined to the
Hartwell area. With this in mind, Mr. Hornig has drafted three warrant articles for consideration
that send a message that the Town is serious about permitting additional commercial
development. The articles could be presented at Annual Town Meeting or at a Spring Special
Town Meeting.
Board of Selectmen reactions to the presentation:
Mr. Lucente called the consultants' presentations eye-opening. He asked for information about
how other communities have fared with the mixed-use concept and is particularly interested to
learn the level of impact from additional school children. He would like to hear feedback on the
proposal from the community and from business owners who will need to cooperate with the
vision.
Mr. Pato said the community will benefit from the concepts presented if they are achieved. He
particularly likes the interstitial use of space that brings the environment closer to the roadway
and makes the street less of a"desert". Mr. Pato agreed that many of the same concepts were
identified in 2009 but the controls put in place to achieve them did not bear fruit. He is
encouraged by the idea of anchor properties and establishing a focus area. He agrees with Mr.
Hornig that the residential tax burden needs to be addressed and echoes Mr. Lucente's concerns
about the impacts of expanded residential capacity, although he agreed that workforce housing
can be scaled to mitigate impacts.
Ms. Barry appreciated how the consultants looked at the area cohesively, including the trails and
wetlands, because there is currently no sense of place there. She lamented the height restrictions
due to Hanscom Field flight paths. She believes it is important to engage the community, the
business owners, and the abutters in this initiative. Nearby residents are concerned about
development, traffic, and flooding, as evidenced by a recent email received by the Board of
Selectmen.
Mr. Kelley asked if the consultants heard from business owners on Hartwell Avenue. They have
made it known in the past that they want opportunity but only if is economically feasible. Also,
property owners are not interested in development that brings more "outside" traffic into the
corridor. Mr. Kelley believes stormwater management and wetland protections can be improved
with any redevelopment. He believes this is a good opportunity to partner with business owners.
Ms. McKinney said the team has done some outreach but intends to do more to test feasibility.
She understands that the lack of amenities in the area is an impediment to its appeal, as is the
scale of individual office buildings sited separately on large lots. The tests that will be done in
the next phases are intended to see what it will take to induce investment.
Mr. Kelley noted a 15-acre upland parcel of Town-owned land in the corridor. He speculated that
the development community might be interested in this land and that if could be developed with
the new vision of the Town guided the process.
71-143
Joint Meeting—December 18, 2017
Ms. Ciccolo said she agreed with the presentation and its vision. With respect to the
Comprehensive Plan (CP), Ms. Ciccolo cautioned not to let progress on the Hartwell Avenue be
hampered by the CP timeline. The region is in the midst of an economic upswing and property
owners should be encouraged to make investments in their buildings while this business
environment holds. Reduction of impervious surfaces and enhancement of natural resources is
important; it is also important to be cautious about adding residential capacity. She strongly
encourages exploration of 40R and 40S housing, along with Housing Choice, that could bring in
State revenue.
Ms. Zammuto asked both Boards to send along any additional comments to her office. The
consultants will have a final report next month and afterward development of a zoning concept
will commence.
As for the idea of bringing articles forward this spring at either Annual Town Meeting or a
Special Town Meeting, Ms. Barry said a major concern was timing. Mr. Hornig said the three
articles he would like either the Planning Board or the Board of Selectmen to bring forward
would be fairly simple: 1)permit additional development in the CM district by altering the
dimensional standards; 2) add to the existing CM district and change Forbes Road from CR to
CM; 3) change front yard setbacks and address streetscapes (needed to mitigate the changes
proposed in 1 and 2).
Ms. Ciccolo encouraged Mr. Hornig to discuss these articles with the other Planning Board
members and then forward copies of the draft language to the Board of Selectmen. If there are
one or more of these articles most members feel positively about, she supports bringing them
forward to Town Meeting. However, she noted an already high number of articles slated for
Town Meeting and expressed concern there may not be enough bandwidth to tackle all of them
at the same time.
Mr. Kelley said he believes the community is ready for these changes and he supports putting
these articles on a Selectmen's meeting agenda in January. He is also interested to see if
additional uses can be accommodated in the zoning changes as he often hears the range of
allowed uses is too restrictive.
Mr. Pato said he sees value in looking at these articles with the intent of putting them on the
Annual Town Meeting or Special Town Meeting warrant. He hopes the Planning Board will
discuss them and come back to the Selectmen with their recommendations. Mr. Lucente said
these articles should be discussed as soon as possible.
Mr. Canale said he does not envision these articles could be ready for Annual Town Meeting but
perhaps for a Special Town Meeting later in the Spring. Ms. Barry recommended another
Selectmen/Planning Board Joint Meeting in January at a date to be determined.
The Planning Board voted to adjourn at 6:55 p.m. Ms. Barry called for a recess of the Board of
Selectmen from 6:55 until 7:15 p.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary
71-144
JOINT SELECTMEN AND SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
Selectmen's Meeting Room
8:30 AM
A Joint Meeting of the Lexington Board of Selectmen and School Committee was called to order
at 8:35 a.m. on December 19, 2017 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room of the Town Office
Building. Board of Selectmen: Ms. Ciccolo, Acting Chair; Mr. Kelley (late arrival); Mr. Pato
and Mr. Lucente were present as well as Mr. Valente, Town Manager; Anne Kostos, Director of
Human Resources; Ms. Siebert, Recording Secretary.
Present for the School Committee were Mr. Alessandrini, Chair; Ms. Jay; Ms. Steigerwald; Ms.
Colburn and Ms. Visco, Lexington Schools Human Resources.
Annual License Renewals
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board of Selectmen voted 3-0 to approve and sign the
license renewals as presented.
Executive Session—Exemption 3: Discuss strategy with respect to collective and coalition
bargaining related to Municipal and School unions
Upon motion duly made and by roll call, the Board of Selectmen voted 3-0 at 8:40 a.m. to enter
Executive Session under Exemption 3 to discuss strategy with respect to collective and coalition
bargaining related to Municipal and School unions 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 10:00
a.m. The School Committee also moved, seconded, and voted 4-0 to adjourn at 10:00 a.m.
A true record; Attest:
Kim Siebert
Recording Secretary