HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-02-02 SB Packet - ReleasedSELECT BOARD MEETING
Monday, February 2, 2026
Select Board Meeting Room, 1625 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA 02420 - Hybrid Participation*
6:30 PM
AGENDA
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments are allowed for up to 10 minutes at the beginning of each meeting. Each speaker is
limited to 2 minutes for comment. Members of the Board will neither comment nor respond, other than to
ask questions of clarification. Speakers are encouraged to notify the Select Board's Office at 781-698-
4580 if they wish to speak during public comment to assist the Chair in managing meeting times.
SELECT BOARD MEMBER CONCERNS AND LIAISON REPORTS
1.Select Board Member Announcements and Liaison Reports
2.Lexington High School Project Update to Board
1.Town Manager Weekly Update
CONSENT AGENDA
1.Approve: One-Day Liquor License - Galaray House, 1720 Massachusetts Avenue
'First Friday' Monthly Art Show - Friday, February 6, 2026
2.Approve: One-Day Liquor License(s) - Spectacle Management, Inc., 1605
Massachusetts Avenue
Saturday, March 14, 2026 - Troubadours
Friday, March 20, 2026 - Hot Chilli Pipers
Thursday, April 2, 2026 - Peking Acrobats
Sunday, April 26, 2026 - Rick Thomas
Friday, May 1, 2026 - Madeleine Peyroux
3.Approve: New Legacy Cultural Center Lantern Festival Parade
Sunday, March 1, 2026: from Cary Memorial Hall to the Visitors' Center
4.Approve: Expenditure of Funds for Gift of Cash Received by Fire Department
5.Town Manager Committee Appointment and Reappointment
Reappointment:
Metropolitan Area Plan Council (MAPC) - Abby McCabe
Appointment:
Metropolitan Area Plan Council (MAPC) Alternate - Meghan Roche
ITEMS FOR INDIVIDUAL CONSIDERATION
1.Presentations: 2026 Annual Town Meeting Articles 6:45pm
Article 10: Appropriate for the FY27 Community Preservation Committee
Operating Budget and CPA Projects
Article 34: Skip the Stuff (Citizen Petition)
Article 26: Oversee Financial Expenditures Lexington High School Project
(Citizen Petition)
2.2026 Annual Town Meeting 7:25pm
Approve Letter from Town Moderator for Inclusion in 2026 Annual Town
Meeting Warrant
Approve Annual Town Meeting and Election Warrant
3.Discussion: FY27 Town Manager's Preliminary Budget & Financial Planning 7:30pm
4.Discussion: Select Board Report to 2026 Annual Town Meeting 7:50pm
ADJOURN
1.Anticipated Adjournment 8:00pm
Meeting Packet: https://lexington.novusagenda.com/agendapublic/
*Members of the public can attend the meeting from their computer or tablet by clicking on
the following link at the time of the meeting:
Https://lexingtonma.zoom.us/j/86343561893?
pwd=oXKQDdIdatm6cK4k5pbTMMCVODdQYa.1
Meeting ID: 863 4356 1893
Passcode: 436053
An Act Relative to Extending Certain State of Emergency Accommodations:
https://www.mass.gov/the-open-meeting-law
A work session of the Select Board will be held on Monday, February 9, 2026 at 6:30pm via
hybrid participation.
The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Select Board will be held on Monday, February
23, 2026 at 6:30pm via hybrid participation.
Hearing Assistance Devices Available on Request
All agenda time and the order of items are approximate and
subject to change.
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
LEXINGTON SELECT BOARD MEETING
AGENDA ITEM TITLE:
Select Board Member Announcements and Liaison Reports
PRESENTER:
Jill Hai, Select Board Chair
ITEM
NUMBER:
LR.1
SUMMARY:
Under this item, Select Board Members can provide verbal updates, make announcements, as well as comment
on any additional points or concerns.
Resources for Immigrant Rights, Travel and Protection
SUGGESTED MOTION:
FOLLOW-UP:
DATE AND APPROXIMATE TIME ON AGENDA:
2/2/2026
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
LEXINGTON SELECT BOARD MEETING
AGENDA ITEM TITLE:
Lexington High School Project Update to Board
PRESENTER:
Joe Pato, Select Board/School
Building Committee Member
ITEM
NUMBER:
L.2
SUMMARY:
Under this standing item, the Select Board will share general updates on the Lexington High School Project,
including progress reports, key milestones, and upcoming actions. This item is intended to provide regular
updates to the community on the project’s status and next steps.
Public comment will not be taken on this item.
For additional information and live updates, visit the project website: www.lhsproject.lexingtonma.org
SUGGESTED MOTION:
FOLLOW-UP:
DATE AND APPROXIMATE TIME ON AGENDA:
2/2/2026
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
LEXINGTON SELECT BOARD MEETING
AGENDA ITEM TITLE:
Town Manager Weekly Update
PRESENTER:
ITEM
NUMBER:
TM.1
SUMMARY:
Under this item, the Town Manager can provide verbal updates, make announcements, as well as comment on
any additional points or concerns.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
FOLLOW-UP:
DATE AND APPROXIMATE TIME ON AGENDA:
2/2/2026
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
LEXINGTON SELECT BOARD MEETING
AGENDA ITEM TITLE:
Approve: One-Day Liquor License - Galaray House, 1720 Massachusetts Avenue
PRESENTER:
Jill Hai, Select Board Chair
ITEM
NUMBER:
C.1
SUMMARY:
Category: Decision-Making
Galaray House is requesting a One-Day Liquor License to serve beer and wine at its First Friday Celebration
on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at 1720 Massachusetts Avenue. This event will feature
artwork by local residents and serve as a community celebration.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
Move to approve a One-Day Liquor License for Galaray House to serve beer and wine at 1720 Massachusetts
Avenue on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
FOLLOW-UP:
Select Board Office.
DATE AND APPROXIMATE TIME ON AGENDA:
2/2/2026
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
LEXINGTON SELECT BOARD MEETING
AGENDA ITEM TITLE:
Approve: One-Day Liquor License(s) - Spectacle Management, Inc., 1605 Massachusetts
Avenue
PRESENTER:
Jill Hai, Select Board Chair
ITEM
NUMBER:
C.2
SUMMARY:
Category: Decision-Making
Spectacle Management, Inc. is requesting five One-Day Liquor Licenses to serve beer and wine at Cary
Hall, located at 1605 Massachusetts Avenue, for their Concert Series. The concerts are scheduled for the
following dates and times:
Saturday, March 14, 2026 - Troubadours from 6:30 - 10:30 PM
Friday, March 20, 2026 - Hot Chilli Pipers from 6:30 - 10:30 PM
Thursday, April 2, 2026 - Peking Acrobats from 6:30 - 10:30 PM
Sunday, April 26, 2026 - Rick Thomas from 2:00 - 6:00 PM
Friday, May 1, 2026 - Madeleine Peyroux from 6:30 - 10:30 PM
The request has been reviewed by the Police Department, Fire Department, and Grounds Division, all of
whom have no concerns.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
Move to approve five One-Day Liquor Licenses for Spectacle Management, Inc. to serve beer and wine at
Cary Hall, 1605 Massachusetts Avenue, for their Concert Series on March 14, 20 & April 2, 26 & May 1,
2026.
Move to approve the consent.
FOLLOW-UP:
Select Board Office.
DATE AND APPROXIMATE TIME ON AGENDA:
2/2/2026
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
Event Diagram Backup Material
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
LEXINGTON SELECT BOARD MEETING
AGENDA ITEM TITLE:
Approve: New Legacy Cultural Center Lantern Festival Parade
PRESENTER:
Jill Hai, Select Board Chair
ITEM
NUMBER:
C.3
SUMMARY:
Category: Decision-Making
The New Legacy Cultural Center is requesting approval for the parade portion of its 2026 Lexington Lantern
Festival. The parade is proposed to take place on Sunday, March 1, 2026, from 6:00pm to 7:00pm.
The parade will originate at Cary Hall and proceed to the Visitor Center lawn. A backup route has been identified
from Cary Hall to Fletcher Park in the event of inclement weather. Approximately 100 parade participants are
expected.
The Police Department, Department of Public Works, Fire Department, and Town Manager’s Office have
reviewed this request and have no objections. Police will provide traffic control and escort services as needed
for public safety.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
To approve the New Legacy Cultural Center's request to hold their Lantern Festival Parade on Sunday, March
1, 2026 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm, traveling from Cary Hall to the Visitor Center lawn, with a backup route from
Cary Hall to Fletcher Park if necessary, subject to working out the final details with Town Departments.
Move to approve the consent.
FOLLOW-UP:
Select Board Office to issue approval for parade portion of event
DATE AND APPROXIMATE TIME ON AGENDA:
2/2/2026
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
NLCC 2026 Lantern Parade Plan Backup Material
2026 Lexington Lantern Festival
Parade
Preliminary Plan
Date: 3/1/2026
Time: 6 – 7 pm
Location: Cary Hall
2026 Lexington Lantern Festival Parade
•Date: 3/1/2026
•Time: 6 pm – 7 pm
•Number of parade participants: close to 100.
•Route: from Cary Hall to the Visitor Center lawn
•Backup route (if the weather is not good), from Cary Hall to Fletcher
Park
•Video Projection at Cary Hall front and visitor center (or police
station eastern side wall)
Parade
Route
Backup Parade
Route
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
LEXINGTON SELECT BOARD MEETING
AGENDA ITEM TITLE:
Approve: Expenditure of Funds for Gift of Cash Received by Fire Department
PRESENTER:
Jill Hai, Select Board Chair
ITEM
NUMBER:
C.4
SUMMARY:
Category: Decision-Making
The Select Board is requested to approve the expenditure of a cash gift in the amount of $20,544, which was
donated for the exclusive use of the Lexington Fire Department. The donor has designated the funds for the
purchase sixty-four (64) winter jackets for Fire Department personnel.
This donation is intended to directly benefit Fire Department staff by ensuring they are properly equipped to
operate safely and effectively during cold weather conditions.
Pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 44, Section 53A, Town departments may accept gifts of
cash; however, the funds may not be expended until the Select Board approves the specific purpose of the
donation and authorizes the associated expenditure. Approval of this item will allow the Fire Department to
proceed with the purchase as intended by the donor.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
to approve the expenditure of a cash gift in the amount of $20,544, received for the exclusive use of the
Lexington Fire Department, for the purpose of purchasing sixty-four (64) winter jackets for Fire Department
personnel, in accordance with MGL Chapter 44, Section 53A, and to authorize the Fire Chief or designee to
proceed with the purchase.
Move to approve the consent.
FOLLOW-UP:
Fire Department
DATE AND APPROXIMATE TIME ON AGENDA:
2/2/2026
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
LEXINGTON SELECT BOARD MEETING
AGENDA ITEM TITLE:
Town Manager Committee Appointment and Reappointment
PRESENTER:
Jill Hai, Select Board Chair
ITEM
NUMBER:
C.5
SUMMARY:
The Town of Lexington needs to reappoint our current Representative to the Metropolitan Area Planning
Council (MAPC) and appoint an Alternate Representative. The Town Manager is recommending that Abby
McCabe, Planning Director be reappointed and that Meghan Roche be appointed as the Alternate
Representative.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
Move to reappoint Planning Director, Abby McCabe to the MAPC Council for a 3 year term and;
Move to appoint Assistant Planning Director, Meghan Roche, as the MAPC Council Alternate Representative.
FOLLOW-UP:
Town Manager's Office.
DATE AND APPROXIMATE TIME ON AGENDA:
2/2/2026
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
Memo- Council Appointment Backup Material
Town of Lexington
PLANNING
DEPARTMENT Abby McCabe, Planning Director
Meghan Roche, Assistant Planning Director
Aaron Koepper, Planner
Carolyn Morrison, Planning Coordinator
1625 Massachusetts Avenue
Lexington, MA 02420
Tel (781) 698-4560
planning@lexingtonma.gov
www.lexingtonma.gov/planning
Page 1 of 1
Memorandum
To: Select Board Members
Copy: Steve Bartha, Town Manager
From: Abby McCabe, Lexington Planning Director
Date: January 6, 2026
Re: MAPC Council Appointments
____________________________________________________________________________________
Request:
Request to appoint Assistant Planning Director Meghan Roche as the MAPC Council Alternate
Representative. She would replace Sheila Page as the alternate after her departure a year ago.
Additionally, my term as Council member expired in June 2025 if I could be appointed to another three-
year term, please.
Background:
The Metropolitan Area Planning Council is the regional planning agency serving 101 municipalities in
the greater Boston area. Each municipality has a Council member representative and an alternate. Council
members may vote on various regional matters. The alternate representative may vote if the full council
member is absent. The Council member position and the alternate are three-year terms.
Action:
In accordance with the provisions of Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 40B, section 24, I hereby
appoint Planning Director Abby McCbae as the Town of Lexington’s representative to the Metropolitan
Area Planning Council said appointment shall be for a term of three years from the appointment date.
In accordance with the provisions of Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 40B, section 24, I hereby
appoint Assistant Planning Director Meghan Roche as the Town of Lexington’s alternate representative
to the Metropolitan Area Planning Council said appointment shall be for a term of three years from the
appointment date.
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
LEXINGTON SELECT BOARD MEETING
AGENDA ITEM TITLE:
Presentations: 2026 Annual Town Meeting Articles
PRESENTER:
Marilyn Fenollosa, Chair of the
Community Preservation Committee,
Laura Swain, Gauri Govil
ITEM
NUMBER:
I.1
SUMMARY:
Category: Informational
Marilyn Fenollosa, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, will be at the meeting to answer any
questions you may have regarding Article 10: Appropriate for the FY27 Community Preservation Committee
Operating Budget and CPA Projects
Laura Swain will be at the meeting to answer any questions you may have regarding Article 34: Skip the
Stuff (Citizen Petition)
Gauri Govil will be at the meeting to answer any questions you may have regarding Article 26: Oversee
Financial Expenditures Lexington High School Project (Citizen Petition)
SUGGESTED MOTION:
n/a
FOLLOW-UP:
n/a
DATE AND APPROXIMATE TIME ON AGENDA:
2/2/2026 6:45pm
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
Art 10 draft motion Presentation
Art 10 CPC presentation Presentation
Art 34 Skip the stuff motion Backup Material
Art 34 Skip the Stuff presentation Presentation
Art 26 oversee financial LHS motion Backup Material
Art 26 financial oversight LHS Presentation
Town of Lexington
Motion
2026 Annual Town Meeting
ARTICLE 10 APPROPRIATE FOR THE FY2027 COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
OPERATING BUDGET AND CPA PROJECTS
MOTION: That the Town hear and act on the report of the Community Preservation Committee on the
FY2027 Community Preservation budget and, pursuant to the recommendations of the Community
Preservation Committee, take the following actions:
That the Town reserve for appropriation the following amounts from estimated FY2027 receipts
as recommended by the Community Preservation Committee:
1. $867,000 for the acquisition, creation and preservation of open space;
2. $867,000 for the acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of historic resources;
3. $867,000 for the acquisition, creation, preservation and support of community housing; and
4. $6,069,000 to the Unbudgeted Reserve.
And further, that the Town make appropriations from the Community Preservation Fund and other
sources as follows:
a) That $20,000 be appropriated for Document Conservation, and to meet this appropriation
$20,000 be appropriated from the Historic Resources Reserve of the Community Preservation
Fund;
b) That $2,000,000 be appropriated for Munroe Center for the Arts, and to meet this appropriation
$1,650,000 be appropriated from the Historic Resources Reserve of the Community
Preservation Fund, and $350,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the
Community Preservation Fund;
c) That $3,200,000 be appropriated to fund the Affordable Housing Trust, and to meet this
appropriation $485,000 be appropriated from the Community Housing Reserve of the
Community Preservation Fund, and $2,715,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve
of the Community Preservation Fund;
d) That $395,355 be appropriated for LexHAB Affordable Housing Support, Restoration and
Preservation, and to meet this appropriation $395,355 be appropriated from the Community
Housing Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund;
e) That $2,630,000 be appropriated for Park Improvements - Athletic Fields – Harrington: Phase
2, and to meet this appropriation $2,630,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserves
of the Community Preservation Fund;
f) That $100,000 be appropriated for Playground Infrastructure Upgrades, and to meet this
appropriation $100,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserves of the Community
Preservation fund;
Town of Lexington
Motion
2026 Annual Town Meeting
g) That $150,000 be appropriated for Administrative Expenses and all other necessary and proper
expenses of the Community Preservation Committee for FY2027, and to meet this
appropriation $150,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the Community
Preservation Fund.
(DATE)
Article 10
Community Preservation Act FY27
Projects
Marilyn Fenollosa
Chair, Community Preservation Committee
1/27/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 1
CPA Project Funding to Date
• Community Housing $21.5 million
•Contributed to the acquisition of 43 units of affordable housing
and the rehabilitation/preservation of existing LexHAB/LHA properties
• Historic Resources $43.6 million
• Funded 106 Historic Resource projects
• Open Space $20.7 million
• Acquired or preserved 68 acres of Open Space
• Recreational Resources $31.5 million
• Created or preserved 80 Recreational Resources
•TOTAL $117.3 million*
• Does not include debt service or total administrative expenses appropriation
1/27/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 2
Percentage Appropriated to Date
1/27/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 3
Historic
Resources
37%
Open Space
17%
Community
Housing
18%
Recreation
26%
Admin.
2%
Percentage Appropriated Over Time
1/27/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 4
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027
Historic Resources Open Space Community Housing Recreation Admin.
State Match to Date
1/27/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 5
Available for Appropriation
(at the beginning of 2026 Annual Town Meeting)
•Available Balances $ 4,780,566
•Estimated Surcharge $ 7,440,000
•Estimated State Match $ 1,080,000
•Estimated Interest Income $ 150,000
•TOTAL $13,450,566
1/27/2026 Annual Town Meeting 2026 6
7
Ending Balance
(after 2026 Annual Town Meeting)
1/27/2026 Annual Town Meeting 2026
Funds Available for Appropriation $13,450,566
ATM Projects Art. 10 (a-f) ($8,345,355)
Administrative Expenses Art. 10 (g) ($ 150,000)
ENDING BALANCE $4,955,211*
*Of this balance, $2,169,462 (44%) is restricted to Open Space. Approximately $2.8 million is available for all funding categories.
Article 10 (a)
Document Conservation
1/27/2026 Annual Town Meeting 2026 8
Historic Resources (9-0) $20,000
Conservation and
preservation of
early 20th century
historic municipal
documents and
records.
Article 10 (b)
Munroe Center Cash Refinancing
1/27/2026 Annual Town Meeting 2026 9
Historic Resources (9-0) $2,000,000
Refinancing the
$2 million debt
authorization
from 2023 ATM
Art. 10(b) with
CPA Cash – see
2026 ATM Art. 18.
Article 10 (c)
Affordable Housing Trust Funding
1/27/2026 Annual Town Meeting 2026 10
Community Housing (9-0) $3,200,000
Funding for acquisition,
holding, and other
affordable housing
costs, hiring of
consultants to prepare
RFPs, preparation of
housing needs
assessments, etc.
Article 10 (d)
LexHAB Affordable Housing Support, Restoration,
and Preservation
1/27/2026 Annual Town Meeting 2026 11
Community Housing (9-0) $395,355
Preservation and
rehabilitation of multiple
LexHAB units, including
window replacement,
chimney removal, and
walkway mitigation; plus
rent subsidies for
LexHAB’s lowest income
tenants.
Article 10 (e)
Park Improvements – Athletic Fields – Harrington
Phase 2
1/27/2026 Annual Town Meeting 2026 12
Recreational Resources (9-0) $2,630,000
Construction of two
natural grass rectangular
athletic fields at 146
Maple Street following
demolition of the LPS
Central Office Building
Article 10 (f)
Playground Infrastructure
1/27/2026 Annual Town Meeting 2026 13
Recreational Resources (9-0) $100,000
Creation and
installation of fencing
around the
playgrounds at Bridge
Elementary and Fiske
Elementary
Article 10 (g)
Administrative Expenses
1/27/2026 Annual Town Meeting 2026 14
Administrative (9-0) $150,000
Staff expense, legal
bills, Community
Preservation Coalition
dues, miscellaneous
expenses, and $50,000
in land planning funds
(including appraisals).
Thank you for your support!
1/27/2026 Town Meeting 2026 15
For Additional Information and to
Post Questions:
•Website:
•lexingtonma.gov/720/Community-Preservation-Committee
•Contact us:
•communitypreservationcomm@lexingtonma.gov
1/27/2026 Town Meeting 2026 16
Town of Lexington
Motion
2026 Annual Town Meeting
1
ARTICLE 32 Skip the Stuff (Citizen Petition)
MOTION: That the Town amend the General Bylaws by adding Article V to Chapter 81 as follows:
Section 1. Purpose and Intent:
The purpose of this by-law is to reduce single-use service ware and single-serving packaged condiments.
Consistent with the sustainability goals of Lexington’s Zero Waste Plan and Lexington’s Climate Action
and Resilience Plan, this bylaw serves to minimize the impact of single-use items on the environment by
advancing solid waste reduction and reducing the carbon footprint of Lexington’s businesses and residents.
Section 2. Definitions:
A “Condiment Packet” means a sealed, single-use packet containing relish, spices, sauce, confections,
or seasoning(s). “Condiment Packet” does not include a container filled by the Prepared Food
Vendor with any such food items.
B “Online Food Ordering Platform” means a digital technology provided on a website or mobile
application through which a consumer can place an order for pick-up or delivery of Prepared Food.
Such platforms include those operated directly by Prepared Food Vendors, by companies that
provide delivery of Prepared Meals to consumers, and by online food ordering systems that connect
consumers to Prepared Food Vendors directly.
C “Prepared Food Vendor” means any establishment located within the Town of Lexington that sells
Prepared Food to be consumed on and/or off its premises.
D “Prepared Food” means food or beverages, which are serviced, packaged, cooked, chopped, sliced,
mixed, brewed, frozen, squeezed, poured, or otherwise prepared (collectively “prepared”) for
individual customers or consumers. Prepared Food does not include raw eggs or raw, butchered
meats, fish, or poultry sold from a butcher case, a refrigerator case, or similar retail appliance.
E “Single-Use Foodware Accessory” means all types of single-use items provided alongside Prepared
Food including but not limited to Utensils, tongs, chopsticks, napkins, condiment packages, straws,
stirrers, splash sticks, cocktail sticks, and toothpicks, cup lids, cup sleeves, cup trays, and food trays
designed for a single-use for Prepared Foods.
F "Single-Use” means designed to be used once and then discarded.
G “Single-Use Dispenser” means a dispenser intended to dispense items one at a time.
Town of Lexington
Motion
2026 Annual Town Meeting
2
H “Utensil” includes forks, spoons, knives, sporks, chopsticks, or other instruments used to serve food
or to eat food.
Section 3. Customer Opt-In for Single-Use Foodware Accessories and Condiment Packets:
A Except as provided by 4(A), a Prepared Food Vendor, for on-premises dining, takeout and delivery
orders, or when using a third party delivery or an Online Food Ordering Platform, shall only provide
any Single-Use Foodware Accessory or Condiment Packet to a customer that are specifically
requested by the consumer. Customers must specify the specific Single-Use Foodware Accessory
and/or Condiment Packet they want included with their order.
B A Prepared Food Vendor must list each Single-Use Foodware Accessory and Condiment Packet that
is offered by the Prepared Food Vendor on any Online Food Ordering Platform such that customers
can specifically request any Single-Use Foodware Accessory and Condiment Packets that they
included with their order.
C Any Single-Use Foodware Accessory or Condiment Packet provided by a Prepared Food Vendor
for use by consumers shall not be bundled or packaged in a manner that prohibits a consumer from
taking only the type of Single-Use Foodware Accessory or Condiment Packet desired without also
having to take a different type of Single-Use Foodware Accessory or Condiment Packet.
Section 4. Exceptions
A For delivery orders, Prepared Food Vendors may choose to include specific accessories, such as cup
lids, spill plugs, and trays, in order to prevent spills and deliver food and beverages safely.
B Nothing in this section shall prohibit a Prepared Food Provider from making unwrapped Single-Use
Foodware Accessories available to a consumer at a self-serve station using refillable self-service
Single Item Dispensers that dispense one item at a time.
C Nothing in this section shall prohibit a Prepared Food Provider from making Condiments available
to a consumer using refillable self-service Single Item Dispenser.
D The Board of Health may suspend this bylaw during a public health emergency, if it determines it is
in the interest of public health to do so.
Section 5. Enforcement:
Enforcement of this bylaw shall be the responsibility of the Board of Health or Board of Health designee.
The Board of Health shall determine the inspection process to be followed, incorporating the process into
other Town duties as appropriate. Any food establishment, retail store, or Town building or premises in
Town of Lexington
Motion
2026 Annual Town Meeting
3
violation of this bylaw shall be subject to a noncriminal disposition fine as specified in § 1-6 of the Town
Bylaws under MGL c. 40, § 21D. Any such fines shall be paid to the Town of Lexington.
Section 6. Effective Date:
This by-law shall take effect on January 1, 2027.
Section 7. Regulations:
The Lexington Board of Health may adopt and amend rules and regulations to effectuate the purposes of
this by-law.
Section 8. Severability:
Each separate provision of this section shall be deemed independent of all other provisions herein, and if
any provision of this section be declared to be invalid by the Attorney General or a court of competent
jurisdiction, the remaining provisions of this section shall remain valid and enforceable.
(date)
Fine schedule Fine allowed
First violation warning
Second violation $25
Third and subsequent
violations
$50
Article
Skip the Stuff: Reducing Plastic Waste
Laura Swain
LexZeroWaste, Waste Reduction Taskforce, TMM
Alex Tsouvalas
Waste Reduction Taskforce, TMM
1/26/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 1
1/26/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting
This by-law would require restaurants to “ask first”
before adding all the unnecessary single-use plastic
and condiments to takeout orders.
2
Skip the Stuff: Reducing Plastic Waste
1/26/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 3
Plastic Bag Ban (TM)Waste Reduction
Task Force
Established
Zero Waste Plan
Curbside Composting
Pilot
Plastic straw Ban (TM)
Styrofoam Ban (TM)
Zero Waste
Resolution (TM)
Plastic Water
Bottle Ban (TM)
202420232022202120192018
TM: Town Meeting Action
Recent Town Initiatives
Municipal
Single-use
Plastic Bottle
Purchase Ban
1/26/2026
4
2026 Annual Town Meeting
SKIP = Ask what is needed, only provide
what’s requested.
STUFF = unnecessary
extras placed in takeout
orders
4
Skip the Stuff: Reducing Plastic Waste
1/26/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting
60% of Americans order takeout weekly
Millions of unused single-use utensils and condiments are
thrown in the trash
Result: single-use is zero-use
5
Our plastic problem
1/26/2026
6
2026 Annual Town Meeting
Lexington households averaged 1,391 pounds of trash
6
Lexington’s waste problem
1/26/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting
●Helps both the businesses and consumers have
common understandings and expectations.
●State-level change is currently stalled.Statewide
legislation unlikely until more towns adopt local
regulations (e.g. New Jersey).
●Newton, Needham, Wellesley, Swampscott, and
Brookline have successfully enacted "Skip the
Stuff" bylaws.
7
Why local law?
1/26/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting
How does it work in practice?
Online Delivery Order:In Person or Phone:
Would you
like utensils or
condiments with your
order?
No thanks. I’ll
be eating this
at home.
8
1/26/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting
Bylaw explained
9
Condiment packets +
Utensils: restaurant asks
Filled by restaurant:
no change
Restaurant Outreach
•Ongoing, extensive outreach (70+% of restaurants)
•Many are already practicing Skip the Stuff and
support this bylaw
1/26/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 10
Supporting Organizations
•Brookhaven Residents' Climate Change Committee
•Lexington Living Landscapes
•Lexington Girl Scouts
•First Parish Climate Action Team
•Sustainable Lexington Committee
1/26/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 11
•Change habits
•Reduce plastic waste
1/26/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 12
Skip the Stuff: Community Impact
Please Support Skip the Stuff
1/26/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 13
ARTICLE 26 OVERSEE FINANCIAL EXPENDITURES LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT
(Citizen Petition)
MOTION: That the Select Board, in collaboration with the School Building Committee (SBC) and
Permanent Building Committee (PBC), be authorized to establish a temporary, independent
Financial Advisory and Transparency Committee for the new LHS building project,
composed of volunteer Lexington residents with relevant expertise in construction finance,
auditing, public procurement, or large-scale construction project delivery.
The purpose of this Committee shall be to provide timely, non-binding, advisory review of
new LHS Building project payment streams, aligned with the project’s payment schedule,
so that opportunities for savings, and potential financial issues may be identified early,
communicated constructively to the SBC and relevant Town committees and staff.
This advisory Committee would also serve as a resident-focused advisory body, centering
the best interests of the Town residents in its actions, with care and good faith, and to
communicate new LHS Building project expenditures, related financial and other
information periodically, and frequently, in easily understood language to Town residents.
This Committee is intended to function as an early-warning and learning mechanism, not as
a decision-making body, and not as a replacement for any existing Town committee or staff
responsibility.
(date)
Town of Lexington
Motion
2026 Annual Town Meeting
1
Article
A citizens’ petition for financial review
and transparency for the new Lexington
High School (LHS) Building Project
expenditures.
Gauri Govil, Deepika Sawhney and Sudha Cheruku:
Lexington Residents
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 1
Article
To see if the Town Meeting will require the Select Board to form a committee
to *oversee* “financial expenditures for the BLOOM project (new
Lexington High School). Additionally, for the committee to periodically
report back to the Town Meeting Members Association and/or the
Select Board, School Committee”, *town residents*, and financial
committees on the fiscal progress of the project,
or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
*petitioners are exploring whether ‘review’ can be substituted for ‘oversight’, and if ‘town
residents’ can be added.
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 2
Motion Intent: Review &
Communicate
a)WHY:Explore if with additional care and insights through volunteer effort, some of the
$657+ million project cost and the $350+million interest over 30 years can be saved
a)WHAT:Provide town residents with timely, easy to understand information on how
their tax dollars are being spent to build the new high school
a)WHO:Designate a small group of domain expert volunteers to look at payment stream
and other expenditure related financial information, analyze it and communicate the
same to town residents, project and town governance.
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 3
Motion Intent: Review &
Communicate …continued
The Select Board will create and setup the advisory committee, including reporting structures
The advisory committee can be akin/or a sub committee of the PBC
The advisory committee will receive appropriate, periodic financial reports as obtained readily from
the ERP systems used by the OPM, CMatR, Architect, and the Town of Lexington, as well as other
expenditure information as deemed fit by the Select Board.
The advisory committee will not have authority over payment approvals, contract administration,
or project management decisions, all of which shall remain solely with the SBC, PBC, appropriate
other committees and Town staff, consistent with existing practice, charters and bylaws
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 4
Why Do We Need the Citizen’s Petition
For the average town resident, information on:
a)ongoing project expenditures is hard to find
b)audit mechanisms for outgoing payment streams and results is unavailable
c)any key performance measurements pertaining to the management of funds and
financial clarity for the taxpayers is unavailable.
The Citizen’s Petition hopes that an independent lens on the expenditures will serve as a
learning and early-warning mechanism for all.
It intends to complement and support the existing committee structure, inform outreach,
and expand financial clarity for Lexington residents, while fully respecting the statutory
authority and operational responsibilities of the Select Board and town administration.
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 5
Proposed Committee Structure
Members: 3,5 or 7 Lexington residents
Desired experience and domain expertise:construction finance, auditing, public
procurement, large-scale construction project delivery
Duration: Till closeout for the new LHS building project
Meeting schedule: 2 per month (suggested)
Partnered with or akin to a sub committee of the Permanent Building Committee (PBC)
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 6
Proposed Committee Responsibilities
Learn:Research and understand the payment stream cadence and expenditure monitoring of
previous Lexington school projects, including their MSBA closeout audit reports
Apply:Periodically receive, and analyze invoice payment and other financial information at the
same cadence as town finance department for the project
Attend:Permanent Building Committee (PBC) and School Building Committee (SBC) meetings
Advise:Select Board, PBC and SBC on any observed trends, management best practices and
opportunities for savings
Communicate:improve financial transparency on current project websites, periodically explain
financial information to town residents through easy-to-understand reports
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 7
Communication & Review
In the next few slides petitioners will discuss these two functions
of the proposed committee, give examples of what other towns
are doing, as well as show how the masses of information
generated by such a large project can be made usable and
accessible.
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 8
Current Availability of Expenditure
Information
Takes many clicks and much
scrolling to try and find information
on project expenditure
No key vendor contracts on
website (OPM, CMatR, Architect).
"Contact Us” routes user to town
website adding to confusion
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 9
1
2
3
4
5
December 2025 OPM Monthly Report
(page 9)
Table appears to be primarily
intended to communicate MSBA
reimbursements.
Missing:
•Table of Contents in the
report
•‘Payment Request No’ is not a
live link
•Explanatory footnotes
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 10
Comparison of Project Websites from
other Towns
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 11
Town Comments Sample Web Pages
North Attleborough
North Attleboro High
School Building Project
Home page gives the most current news about the
project.
All details: Meetings, Important documents, project
design etc. with clear links
North Attleboro High School Building Project Docs
Revere
Revere High School
Construction Project
Meetings, key documents, project design etc with clear
links and with current status are provided. Revere High
School Construction Project Docs. Library
More comprehensive expenditure information in
monthly reports, see (Revere High School OPM
Monthly Project Update Report )
A Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) is an independent group that monitors how voter-
approved school bond funds are spent, ensuring compliance with ballot measures. While common
in California under Proposition 39, they are also found in places like Omaha, Nebraska. No
Massachusetts school district has yet formed one—ours can be the first.
Some examples of Citizens' Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) are:
San Diego (California) Community College district: Citizens' Bond Oversight Committee Structure
Omaha, Nebraska School district: Citizen's Bond Oversight Committee Structure
Such groups are highly effective in promoting civic participation and community involvement.
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 12
Other Review/Oversight Groups
Current Oversight for New LHS
Project
However, this is not visible to the town residents, and is being managed with the
same 1X town resource as the smaller building projects
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 13
Current Invoice to Payment Workflow
The town uses MUNIS for
management.
Closeout audit reports for
previous school project
still pending from MSBA.
SBC sees monthly report
from OPM.
PBC gets periodic reports
on expenditure
No proposed change to
the workflow or
addition of any step or
entity
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 14
Leverage Generic Reports Available
from Software used by Key Parties
Payment streams are managed by industry or function specific software
applications. Reports provided by platforms like Oracle Textura, Procore
and MUNIS typically include payment status reports, compliance tracking
reports, and financial analytics dashboards, or are in the process of
incorporating AI based analytics.
These reports help stakeholders monitor payment processes, ensure
compliance, and improve overall project performance.
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 15
Available Reports through MUNIS
MUNIS is an Enterprise Resource Planning software (ERP) from Tyler
Technologies. It provides standard reports, ad-hoc reporting tools, and the
ability to create custom reports.
Finance Insights: Improve cost efficiency, operational insights, and internal/external transparency*
*Finance Insights Platform | Tyler
Technologies
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 16
Available Reports through ProCore
Financials report Procore example
“Most reports can
be exported to a
PDF or CSV file to
be shared with
project executives,
owners, or anyone
looking for
summaries.”
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 17
Available reports through Textura
Oracle Textura Payment Management Reports User Guide January 2026
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 18
In Conclusion
The proposed committee is an advisory body primarily focused on review of expenditures and accessible communication to town residents
It is assistive and collaborative
It is a no/low-cost option for insight into project spend
It acknowledges town residents’ tax dollars by illuminating their expenditure
It is not an obstacle to project progress or a nonproductive increase in bureaucracy, as
responsibility for all payment approvals, contract administration, project management
decisions, shall remain the responsibility of the School Building Committee, Permanent
Building Committee, other committees and Town staff as required by the charters and law.
Select Board has flexibility to seek a different solution: “... or act in any other manner in relation thereto”
1/18/2026 2026 Annual Town Meeting 19
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
LEXINGTON SELECT BOARD MEETING
AGENDA ITEM TITLE:
2026 Annual Town Meeting
PRESENTER:
Kelly Axtell, Deputy Town Manager
ITEM
NUMBER:
I.2
SUMMARY:
Category: Decision Making
Kelly Axtell will present the 2026 Annual Town Meeting and Election warrant for the Board's review and
approval.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
Move to approve the 2026 Annual Town Meeting and Election warrant as presented and authorize staff to
make non-substantive edits as needed.
Move to approve the 2026 Moderator's Request letter for hybrid Annual Town Meeting.
FOLLOW-UP:
DATE AND APPROXIMATE TIME ON AGENDA:
2/2/2026 7:25pm
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
2026 Moderator Letter Backup Material
2026 Election and ATM Warrant 2.2 26 Backup Material
DRAF
T
ATTACHMENT A
Town of Lexington
MODERATOR
DEBORAH BROWN
January 20, 2026 DELIVERED BY EMAIL
Dear Select Board Members,
Pursuant to Massachusetts Section 26 of Chapter 22 of the Acts of 2022, as amended by Section
47 of Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023, I request approval to conduct the 2026 Annual Town
Meeting as a hybrid meeting. I propose to use a combination of: (1) the Zoom videoconferencing
platform, (2) the online voting tool developed by Select Board member Joe Pato, and (3) an
online queuing function developed by Select Board member Joe Pato to facilitate the process of
debate.
I certify that all components of the system described above have been fully tested and utilized
successfully for prior Town Meetings, and I am satisfied that this system enables our meetings to
be conducted in substantially the same manner whether a member is participating in person or
remotely. I certify that the system for those opting for remote participation (i) allows the
moderator, town meeting members, town officials and any other interested members of the
public to identify and hear the moderator and each town meeting member who attends and
participates in the remote meeting, as well as any other individuals who participate in the
meeting; (ii) provides the ability to determine whether a quorum is present; (iii) allows
participants to request recognition by the moderator and makes such requests visible to the
meeting participants and the public; (iv) allows the moderator to determine when a town meeting
member wishes to be recognized to speak, make a motion, or raise a point of order or personal
privilege; (v) enables the moderator to recognize a town meeting member, town official or other
individual and enable that person to speak; (vi) provides the ability to conduct a roll call or
electronically recorded vote; (vii) allows any interested members of the public to access the
meeting remotely through LexMedia for purposes of witnessing the deliberations and actions
taken at the town meeting; (viii) allows members of the public to participate in debate in-person
or through the submission of statements for or against a motion; and (ix) provides for the town
meeting to be recorded and available for future viewing. I further confirm that I have consulted
with Lexington’s Commission on Disability regarding system accessibility.
Sincerely,
Deborah Brown
Town Moderator
617-512-7901
1625 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE • LEXINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02420
15
Town of Lexington, Massachusetts
Select Board
JILL I. HAI, CHAIR
JOSEPH N. PATO
DOUGLAS M. LUCENTE
MARK D. SANDEEN
VINEETA A. KUMAR
TEL: (781) 698-4580February 2, 2026
To the Residents of Lexington:
This warrant document provides notification of the 2026 Annual Town Meeting and advises residents of the various
issues being considered at the meetings. Only Articles listed in this warrant may be discussed. The purpose of the
Warrant is to inform citizens of the issues to be discussed and does not provide for detailed information about the
Articles.
Articles for the Annual Town Meeting are grouped in three categories: Financial, General and Zoning. Descriptions
are provided in an attempt to make the Warrant useful and understandable.
The most important votes that take place at the Annual Town Meeting are related to the budget. We urge citizens to
read the budget, understand it, and help us find a way to foster excellence within the community. The Town
website, http://www.lexingtonma.gov/town-meeting, includes the most recent version of the FY2027 Budget and
other financial Articles as well as other relevant information for each Article.
Between now and Town Meeting there will be multiple meetings to develop a comprehensive recommended budget
for FY2027. That budget will be delivered to all Town Meeting Members prior to the consideration of any financial
articles by Town Meeting.
SELECT BOARD
Jill I. Hai, Chair
Joseph N. Pato
Douglas M. Lucente
Mark D. Sandeen
Vineeta A. Kumar
WARRANT2026 ANNUAL TOWN MEETINGDetailed information on these Town Meeting Warrant Articles and other updated information
can be found at https://www.lexingtonma.gov/town-meeting
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SELECT BOARD MESSAGE
ARTICLE 1 NOTICE OF ELECTION ....................................................................................................... 3
ELECTION OF DEPUTY MODERATOR AND REPORTS OF TOWN BOARDS,ARTICLE 2 OFFICERS AND COMMITTEES.......................................................................................... 4
ARTICLE 3 APPOINTMENTS TO CARY LECTURE SERIES............................................................... 4
FINANCIAL ARTICLES ..................................................................................................... 5
ARTICLE 4 APPROPRIATE FY2027 OPERATING BUDGET .............................................................. 5
ARTICLE 5 APPROPRIATE FY2027 ENTERPRISE FUNDS BUDGETS.............................................. 5
ARTICLE 6 AMEND FY2026 OPERATING, ENTERPRISE AND CPA BUDGETS............................. 6
ARTICLE 7 SUSTAINABLE PROJECTS ................................................................................................ 6
ARTICLE 8 APPROPRIATE FOR VISION FOR LEXINGTON SURVEY ............................................. 6
ARTICLE 9 ESTABLISH AND CONTINUE DEPARTMENTAL REVOLVING FUNDS..................... 6
APPROPRIATE FOR THE FY2027 COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEEARTICLE 10 OPERATING BUDGET AND CPA PROJECTS .................................................................. 7
ARTICLE 11 APPROPRIATE FOR RECREATION CAPITAL PROJECTS ............................................. 8
ARTICLE 12 APPROPRIATE FOR MUNICIPAL CAPITAL PROJECTS AND EQUIPMENT .............. 8
ARTICLE 13 APPROPRIATE FOR WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS............................................. 9
ARTICLE 14 APPROPRIATE FOR WASTEWATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS............................... 9
ARTICLE 15 APPROPRIATE FOR SCHOOL CAPITAL PROJECTS AND EQUIPMENT..................... 9
ARTICLE 16 APPROPRIATE FOR PUBLIC FACILITIES CAPITAL PROJECTS.................................. 9
ARTICLE 17 APPROPRIATE TO POST EMPLOYMENT INSURANCE LIABILITY FUND ............... 10
ARTICLE 18 RESCIND PRIOR BORROWING AUTHORIZATIONS ..................................................... 10
ESTABLISH, AMEND, DISSOLVE AND APPROPRIATE TO AND FROMARTICLE 19 SPECIFIED STABILIZATION FUNDS................................................................................ 10
ARTICLE 20 APPROPRIATE FOR PRIOR YEARS’ UNPAID BILLS..................................................... 11
ARTICLE 21 APPROPRIATE FOR AUTHORIZED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS ................................ 11
ARTICLE 22 STREET ACCEPTANCE ....................................................................................................... 11
ARTICLE 23 APPROPRIATE FOR TRASH/RECYCLING BINS............................................................. 11
ELDERLY AND DISABLED TAXATION AID FUND & COMMITTEE (GL c. 60, §ARTICLE 24 3D)........................................................................................................................................... 11
ARTICLE 25 SURCHARGE ON SPECIFIC RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (Citizen Petition) .......... 12
OVERSEE FINANCIAL EXPENDITURES LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT
ARTICLE 26 (Citizen Petition) .................................................................................................................... 12
ARTICLE 27 PROCUREMENT FOR ONLINE CAPITAL PROJECT PLATFORM (Citizen Petition) ... 12
ARTICLE 28 SPEED HUMPS - WALNUT STREET (Citizen Petition) ..................................................... 12
GENERAL ARTICLES ........................................................................................................ 13
ARTICLE 29 SELECT BOARD TO ACCEPT EASEMENTS .................................................................... 13
AMENDMENT TO ANNUAL MEETING DATE (ELECTION) PROVISIONS INARTICLE 30 TOWN BYLAW ................................................................................................................................. 13
ARTICLE 31 AMENDMENT-CHAPTER 90, § 9 "REGULATION OF REFUSE DISPOSAL" ............... 13
ARTICLE 32 AMEND COUNCIL ON AGING CHARGE ......................................................................... 13
ARTICLE 33 UNIVERSAL DESIGN RESOLUTION ................................................................................ 13
ARTICLE 34 SKIP THE STUFF (Citizen Petition) ...................................................................................... 14
ZONING ARTICLES ........................................................................................................... 14
ARTICLE 35 AMEND ZONING BYLAW - TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS .......................................... 14
ATTACHMENT A: MODERATOR LETTER ...................................................................... 15
TOWN MEETING MEMBER LISTING ............................................................................... 16
2
TOWN OF LEXINGTON WARRANTANNUAL TOWN MEETING 2026
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Middlesex, ss.
To the Constable of the Town of Lexington, in said County, Greetings:
In the name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are directed to notify the inhabitants of the Town of Lexington qualified to vote in elections and in Town affairs to meet in their respective voting places in said Town.
PRECINCT ONE CARY MEMORIAL BUILDING
PRECINCT TWO CARY MEMORIAL BUILDING
PRECINCT THREE LEXINGTON COMMUNITY CENTER
PRECINCT FOUR CARY MEMORIAL BUILDING
PRECINCT FIVE CARY MEMORIAL BUILDING
PRECINCT SIX CARY MEMORIAL BUILDING
PRECINCT SEVEN CARY MEMORIAL BUILDING
PRECINCT EIGHT SAMUEL HADLEY PUBLIC SERVICES BUILDING
PRECINCT NINE LEXINGTON COMMUNITY CENTER
On Monday, the Second Day of March, 2026
From 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., then and there to act on the following article:
ARTICLE 1 NOTICE OF ELECTION
Two Select Board members; for a term of three years;
One Moderator for a term of one year;
One School Committee member for a term of three years;
Two Planning Board members; for a term of three years;
One Lexington Housing Authority Member for a term of five years.
Nine Town Meeting Members in Precinct One, the seven receiving the highest number of votes to
serve for terms of three years;the two receiving the next highest number of votes to fill unexpired terms for seats ending in March 2028Seven Town Meeting Members in Precinct Two, the seven receiving the highest number of votesto serve for terms of three years;
Seven Town Meeting Members in Precinct Three, the seven receiving the highest number of votes
to serve for terms of three years;Seven Town Meeting Members in Precinct Four, the seven receiving the highest number of votesto serve for terms of three years;Seven Town Meeting Members in Precinct Five, the seven receiving the highest number of votes
to serve for terms of three years;
Seven Town Meeting Members in Precinct Six, the seven receiving the highest number of votes toserve for terms of three years;Eight Town Meeting Members in Precinct Seven, the seven receiving the highest number of votesto serve for terms of three years; the one receiving the next highest number of votes to fill an unexpired
term for a seat ending in March 2027;
3
Seven Town Meeting Members in Precinct Eight, the seven receiving the highest number of votes to serve for terms of three years;
Nine Town Meeting Members in Precinct Nine, the seven receiving the highest number of votes toserve for terms of three years; the one receiving the next highest number of votes to fill an unexpired term for a seat ending in March 2028; the one receiving the next highest number of votes to fill an unexpired term for a seat ending in March 2027.
You are also to notify the inhabitants aforesaid to meet at the Margery Milne Battin Hall in the Cary Memorial Building, 1605 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington or by means of the audio/video conferencing platform described more particularly below
on Monday, the thirtieth day of March, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
at which time and place the following articles are to be acted upon and determined exclusively by the Town Meeting Members in accordance with Chapter 215 of the Acts of 1929, as amended, and subject to the referendum provided for by Section eight of said Chapter, as amended.
Pursuant to Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2020, as amended, including without limitation by Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023, the Town Meeting shall be held through a hybrid of in person meeting and remote participation by the means
requested by the Moderator as follows:
Town Meeting members will either attend the meeting in person at Margery Milne Battin Hall, or via remote participation. The meeting will be facilitated by use of: (1) the Zoom videoconferencing platform, (2) the online voting tool developed by Select Board member Joe Pato and (3) an online queuing function developed by Select Board member Joe Pato to facilitate debate. Other Town residents who wish to follow the proceedings may do so by attending the meeting in person in the areas reserved for non-Town Meeting Members, or via LexMedia athttps://www.youtube.com/user/LexMediaMATV. Other residents who wish to participate in the Meeting may emailthe Town Clerk's Office at clerk@lexingtonma.gov and by completing the online form athttp://www.lexingtonma.gov/town-meeting.
For more information, please see the Moderator's letter dated January 20, 2026 to the Select Board attached to this warrant as Attachment A.
ARTICLE 2 ELECTION OF DEPUTY MODERATOR AND REPORTS OF TOWN BOARDS, OFFICERS AND COMMITTEES
To see if the Town will vote to approve the Deputy Moderator nominated by the Moderator; receive the reports of
any Board or Town Officer or of any Committee of the Town; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
DESCRIPTION: This article remains open throughout Town Meeting and reports may be presented at any Town Meeting session by boards, officers, or committees. In addition, the Town will consider the approval of the
nomination of a Deputy Moderator as authorized under Section 118-11 of the Code of the Town of Lexington.
ARTICLE 3 APPOINTMENTS TO CARY LECTURE SERIES
To see if the Town will authorize the appointment of the committee on lectures under the wills of Eliza Cary
Farnham and Susanna E. Cary; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
DESCRIPTION: This is an annual article that provides for the appointment of citizens to the Cary Lecture Series by the Moderator.
4
FINANCIAL ARTICLES
ARTICLE 4 APPROPRIATE FY2027 OPERATING BUDGET
To see if the Town will vote to make appropriations for expenditures by departments, officers, boards and
committees of the Town for the ensuing fiscal year and determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax
levy, by transfer from available funds, by transfer from enterprise funds, or by any combination of these methods; or
act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: See the most recent version of the FY2027 budget proposals posted at
http://lexingtonma.gov/budget.
DESCRIPTION: This article requests funds for the FY2027 (July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027) operating budget. The
operating budget includes the school and municipal budgets. The operating budget includes requests for funds to provide prospective salary increases for employees, including salaries to be negotiated through collective bargaining negotiations. The budget also includes certain shared expenses.
ARTICLE 5 APPROPRIATE FY2027 ENTERPRISE FUNDS BUDGETS
To see if the Town will vote to appropriate a sum of money to fund the operations of the Department of Public
Works, Water and Wastewater Divisions, and the Department of Recreation and Community Programs; determine
whether the money shall be provided by the estimated income to be derived in FY2027 from the operations of the
related enterprise, by the tax levy, by transfer from available funds, including the retained earnings of the relevant enterprise fund, or by any combination of these methods; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED:
Enterprise Fund
a) Water
FY2025Actual FY2026 Approved FY2027 Requested
Personal Services $923,588 $1,074,990 $1,089,872
Expenses $460,827 $675,100 $694,600
Debt Service $1,368,116 $1,438,006 $1,390,315
MWRA Assessment $8,432,204 $8,650,822 $9,515,904
Total Water Enterprise Fund $11,184,735 $11,838,918 $12,690,691
b) Wastewater
Personal Services $423,941 $497,353 $502,884
Expenses $459,440 $617,100 $632,400
Debt Service $1,569,746 $1,672,086 $1,618,731
MWRA Assessment $9,153,352 $9,359,196 $10,295,116
Total Water Enterprise Fund $11,606,479 $12,145,735 $13,049,131
c) Recreation and Community Programs
Personal Services $1,668,961 $1,816,854 $1,967,722
Expenses $1,438,519 $1,670,835 $1,593,035
Total Recreation and Community Programs Enterprise Fund $3,107,480 $3,487,689 $3,560,757
DESCRIPTION: Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 44, Section 53F½, towns may establish Enterprise
Funds for a utility, health care, recreation or transportation operation, with the operation to receive related revenue
and receipts and pay expenses of such operation. This article provides for the appropriation to and expenditure from
three enterprise funds previously established by the Town. The Recreation and Community Programs Fund
includes the operations and programs for the Community Center.
5
ARTICLE 6 AMEND FY2026 OPERATING, ENTERPRISE AND CPA BUDGETS
To see if the Town will vote to make supplementary appropriations, to be used in conjunction with money
appropriated under Articles 4, 5, 9, and 10 of the 2025 Annual Town Meeting, and Articles 4 and 6 of the warrant
for the Special Town Meeting 2025-2, to be used during the current fiscal year, or make any other adjustments to
the current fiscal year budgets and appropriations that may be necessary; to determine whether the money shall be
provided by transfer from available funds including the Community Preservation Fund; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: Unknown at press time
DESCRIPTION: This is an annual article to permit adjustments to current fiscal year (FY2026) appropriations.
ARTICLE 7 SUSTAINABLE PROJECTS
To see if the Town will vote to appropriate a sum of money for sustainable capital projects including electric vehicle
charging equipment and related infrastructure improvements; the study, design, purchase and installation of a solar collector, canopy, rooftop or other solar energy collection systems, including battery storage and any costs incidental or related thereto; and to determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, by transfer from available funds, by borrowing, or by any combination of these methods; and further to determine whether the Town will authorize the Select Board to apply for, accept, and expend in anticipation of federal and state aid for such sustainable projects, or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: $463,000
DESCRIPTION: This article requests funds for sustainable capital projects which may include the purchase and
installation of electric vehicle chargers in municipal and public parking lots, the study, design and construction of
rooftop solar or solar canopies, including battery storage, and other projects intended to move the Town towards achieving its sustainability goals.
ARTICLE 8 APPROPRIATE FOR VISION FOR LEXINGTON SURVEY
To see if the Town will vote to appropriate a sum of money for the purpose of conducting a Town-wide Vision for
Lexington survey and related expenses and determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, by transfer from available funds, or by any combination of these methods; or act in any other manner in relation
thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board at the request of Vision for Lexington)
FUNDS REQUESTED: $75,000
DESCRIPTION: This article will allow the Vision for Lexington committee to conduct a survey as part of alongitudinal study to assess community perspectives and progress toward meeting stated preferences of community
members and to inform planning and decision-making by the three elected boards.
ARTICLE 9 ESTABLISH AND CONTINUE DEPARTMENTAL REVOLVING FUNDS
To see if the Town will vote, pursuant to the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 44, Section 53E½ and Chapter
110 of the Code of the Town of Lexington, to continue existing revolving funds; to amend said Chapter 110 to
establish new revolving funds; to determine whether the maximum amounts that may be expended from such new and existing revolving fund accounts in FY2027 shall be the following amounts or any other amounts; or act in any
other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
6
FUNDS REQUESTED:
Program or Purpose for Revolving Funds FY2027 Authorization
School Bus Transportation $1,300,000
Building Rental $683,000
Lexington Tree Fund $150,000
DPW Burial Containers $60,000
DPW Compost Operations $1,039,000
Minuteman Household Hazardous Waste Program $250,000
Senior Services $75,000
Residential Engineering Review $57,600
Health Programs $155,000
Lab Inspections $95,000
Tourism $599,000
Refuse and Recycling Collection $0
DESCRIPTION: The amount that may be spent from a revolving fund established under Massachusetts General
Laws Chapter 44, Section 53E½ must be approved annually by Town Meeting. The Funds are credited with the receipts received in connection with the programs supported by such funds, and expenditures may be made from the revolving fund without further appropriation.
ARTICLE 10 APPROPRIATE FOR THE FY2027 COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE OPERATING BUDGET AND CPA PROJECTS
To see if the Town will vote to hear and act on the report of the Community Preservation Committee on the FY2027
Community Preservation budget and, pursuant to the recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee, to appropriate from the Community Preservation Fund, or to reserve amounts in the Community Preservation Fund for future appropriations; for the debt service on previously authorized financing; for the administrative expenses of
the Community Preservation Committee for FY2027; for the acquisition, creation and preservation of open space;
for the acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of historic resources; for the acquisition, creation,
preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of land for recreational use; for the acquisition, creation, preservation and support of community housing; and for the rehabilitation or restoration of open space and community housing acquired or created with moneys from the Community Preservation Fund; to appropriate funds for such projects and
determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, or from estimated Community Preservation Act
surcharges and the state match for the upcoming fiscal year, by transfer from available funds, including enterprise
funds, by borrowing, or by any combination of these methods; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board at the request of the Community Preservation Committee)
FUNDS REQUESTED:
a. Document Conservation – $20,000
b. Munroe Center for the Arts Cash Refinancing – $2,000,000
c. Affordable Housing Trust Funding – $3,200,000
d. LexHAB Affordable Housing Support, Restoration, and Preservation – $395,355
e. Park Improvements – Athletic Fields - Harrington: Phase 2 – $2,630,000
f. Playground Infrastructure Upgrades – $100,000
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g. Administrative Budget – $150,000
DESCRIPTION: The article requests that Community Preservation Funds and other funds as necessary, be
appropriated for the projects recommended by the Community Preservation Committee and for administrative costs.
ARTICLE 11 APPROPRIATE FOR RECREATION CAPITAL PROJECTS
To see if the Town will vote to appropriate a sum of money for recreation-related capital projects and equipment; and determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, by transfer from available funds, including the Recreation and Community Programs Enterprise Fund, by borrowing, or by any combination of these methods; or
act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board at the request of the Recreation Committee)
FUNDS REQUESTED: $190,000DESCRIPTION: For a description of the proposed projects, see Section XI: Capital Investment section of theFY2027 budget. The most recent version of the capital section can be found at www.lexingtonma.gov/fy27capital.
ARTICLE 12 APPROPRIATE FOR MUNICIPAL CAPITAL PROJECTS AND EQUIPMENT
To see if the Town will vote to appropriate a sum of money for the following capital projects and equipment:
a)Transportation Mitigation;
b)Bicycle-Pedestrian Plan Implementation: Minuteman Bikeway to LHS;
c)Townwide Bicycle-Pedestrian Plan Implementation;
d)Fire Ladder Truck;
e)Equipment Replacement;
f)Sidewalk Improvements;
g)Hydrant Replacement;
h)Street Improvements;
i)Stormwater Management Program;
j)DPW Building Floor Repairs;
k)Burlington & North Streets Sidewalk;
l)Adams Street Intersection Improvements at East & Hancock Streets;
m)Hartwell Training Facility Paving;
n)Municipal Technology Improvement Program;
o)Application Implementation; and
p)Network Technology Improvements.
and authorize the Select Board to take by eminent domain, purchase or otherwise acquire, any fee, easement or other interests in land necessary therefor; determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, by
transfer from available funds, including enterprise funds, by borrowing, or by any combination of these methods;
determine if the Town will authorize the Select Board to apply for, accept, expend and borrow in anticipation of
state aid for such capital improvements; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: $11,989,235
DESCRIPTION: For a description of the proposed projects, see Section XI: Capital Investment section of the
FY2027 budget. The most recent version of the capital section can be found at www.lexingtonma.gov/fy27capital.
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ARTICLE 13 APPROPRIATE FOR WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS
To see if the Town will vote to make water distribution system improvements, including the installation of new
water mains and replacement or cleaning and lining of existing water mains and standpipes, the replacement or
rehabilitation of water towers, engineering studies and the purchase and installation of equipment in connection
therewith, in such accepted or unaccepted streets or other land as the Select Board may determine, subject to the
assessment of betterments or otherwise; and to take by eminent domain, purchase or otherwise acquire any fee, easement or other interest in land necessary therefor; appropriate money for such improvements and land
acquisition and determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, water enterprise fund, by transfer
from available funds, including any special water funds, or by borrowing, or by any combination of these methods;
to determine whether the Town will authorize the Select Board to apply for, accept, expend and borrow in
anticipation of federal and state aid for such projects; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: $2,381,639
DESCRIPTION: For a description of the proposed projects, see Section XI: Capital Investment section of the
FY2027 budget. The most recent version of the capital section can be found at www.lexingtonma.gov/fy27capital.
ARTICLE 14 APPROPRIATE FOR WASTEWATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS
To see if the Town will vote to install and line sanitary sewer mains and sewerage systems and replacements and upgrades to pump stations thereof, including engineering studies and the purchase of equipment in connection
therewith; in such accepted or unaccepted streets or other land as the Select Board may determine, subject to the
assessment of betterments or otherwise, in accordance with Chapter 504 of the Acts of 1897, and acts in addition
thereto and in amendment thereof, or otherwise; and to take by eminent domain, purchase or otherwise acquire any
fee, easement or other interest in land necessary therefor; appropriate money for such installation and land acquisition and determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, the wastewater enterprise fund, by
transfer from available funds, including any special wastewater funds, by borrowing, or by any combination of these
methods; to determine whether the Town will authorize the Select Board to apply for, accept, expend and borrow in
anticipation of federal and state aid for such wastewater projects; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: $1,304,080
DESCRIPTION: For a description of the proposed projects, see Section XI: Capital Investment section of the
FY2027 budget. The most recent version of the capital section can be found at www.lexingtonma.gov/fy27capital.
ARTICLE 15 APPROPRIATE FOR SCHOOL CAPITAL PROJECTS AND EQUIPMENT
To see if the Town will vote to appropriate a sum of money to maintain and upgrade the schools’ technology
systems and equipment; determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, by transfer from available funds, by borrowing, or by any combination of these methods; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board at the request of the School Committee)
FUNDS REQUESTED: $1,425,657DESCRIPTION: For a description of the proposed projects, see Section XI: Capital Investment section of theFY2027 budget. The most recent version of the capital section can be found at www.lexingtonma.gov/fy27capital.
ARTICLE 16 APPROPRIATE FOR PUBLIC FACILITIES CAPITAL PROJECTS
To see if the Town will vote to appropriate a sum of money for capital improvements and renovations, including
new construction of public facilities for:
a)Public Facilities Bid Documents;
b)Public Facilities Interior Finishes;
c)School Paving and Sidewalks;
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d)Public Facilities Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing Replacements; and
e)LHS Equipment Emergency Needs.
and to determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, by transfer from available funds, including
enterprise funds, by borrowing, or by any combination of these methods; to determine if the Town will authorize the
Select Board to apply for, accept, expend and borrow in anticipation of state aid for such capital improvements; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: $5,801,720DESCRIPTION: For a description of the proposed projects, see Section XI: Capital Investment section of the
FY2027 budget. The most recent version of the capital section can be found at www.lexingtonma.gov/fy27capital.
ARTICLE 17 APPROPRIATE TO POST EMPLOYMENT INSURANCE LIABILITY FUND
To see if the Town will vote to appropriate a sum of money to the Town of Lexington Post Retirement Insurance
Liability Fund, as established by Chapter 317 of the Acts of 2002; determine whether the money shall be provided
by the tax levy, by transfer from available funds, including enterprise funds, or by any combination of these
methods; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: Unknown at press time
DESCRIPTION: This article will allow the Town to continue to fund its liability for post-employment benefits for
Town of Lexington retirees. Beginning with the FY2007 audit, the Town has been required to disclose this liability.
Special legislation establishing a trust fund for this purpose was enacted in 2002.
ARTICLE 18 RESCIND PRIOR BORROWING AUTHORIZATIONS
To see if the Town will vote to rescind the unused borrowing authority voted under previous Town Meeting articles; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: Unknown at press time
DESCRIPTION: State law requires that Town Meeting vote to rescind authorized and unissued debt that is no
longer required for its intended purpose.
ARTICLE 19 ESTABLISH, AMEND, DISSOLVE AND APPROPRIATE TO AND FROM SPECIFIED
STABILIZATION FUNDS
To see if the Town will vote to create, amend, dissolve, rename or appropriate sums of money to and from
Stabilization Funds in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws, Section 5B of Chapter 40, for the purposes of:
(a) Section 135, Zoning By-Law; (b) Traffic Mitigation; (c) Transportation Demand Management/Public
Transportation; (d) Special Education; (e) Center Improvement District; (f) Transportation Management Overlay District; (g) Capital; (h) Payment in Lieu of Parking; (i) Visitors Center Capital; (j) Affordable Housing Capital; (k)
Water System Capital; (l) Ambulance Stabilization Fund; determine whether such sums shall be provided by the
tax levy, by transfer from available funds, from fees, charges or gifts or by any combination of these methods; or act
in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: Unknown at press time
DESCRIPTION: This article proposes to establish, dissolve, and fund Stabilization Funds for specific purposes and
to appropriate funds therefrom. Money in those funds may be invested and the interest may then become a part of
the particular fund. These funds may later be appropriated for the fund's specific designated purpose by a majority
vote of an Annual or Special Town Meeting.
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ARTICLE 20 APPROPRIATE FOR PRIOR YEARS’ UNPAID BILLS
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate money to pay any unpaid bills rendered to the Town for prior
years; to determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, by transfer from available funds, or by any
combination of these methods; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: Unknown at press timeDESCRIPTION: This is an annual article to request funds to pay bills after the close of the fiscal year in which the
goods were received or the services performed and for which no money was encumbered.
ARTICLE 21 APPROPRIATE FOR AUTHORIZED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
To see if the Town will vote to make supplementary appropriations to be used in conjunction with sums
appropriated in prior years for the installation or construction of water mains, sewers and sewerage systems, drains,
streets, buildings, recreational facilities or other capital improvements and equipment that have heretofore been authorized; determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, by transfer from the balances in other
articles, by transfer from available funds, including enterprise funds and the Community Preservation Fund, by
borrowing, or by any combination of these methods; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: Unknown at press timeDESCRIPTION: This is an annual article to request funds to supplement existing appropriations for certain capital
projects in light of revised cost estimates that exceed such appropriations.
ARTICLE 22 STREET ACCEPTANCE: WILLARD CIRCLE, CART PATH LANE AND
STAGE COACH ROAD
To see if the Town will vote to accept as a Town way Willard Circle as shown on a plan dated November 19, 2025 and Cart Path Lane and Stage Coach Road, shown on a plan set (2 pages) dated December 29, 2025, all of which are
on file with the Town Clerk and to take by eminent domain, donation or otherwise acquire any fee, easement, or
other interest in land necessary therefore; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
DESCRIPTION: This article will accept the identified streets as public ways, and will authorize the Town to take title to Willard Circle, Cart Path Lane and Stage Coach Road.
ARTICLE 23 APPROPRIATE FOR TRASH/RECYCLING BINS
To see if the Town will vote to appropriate a sum of money to purchase recycling and trash wheeled carts for all
households served by the municipal solid waste program; determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax
levy, by transfer from available funds, or by any combination of these methods; or act in any other manner in
relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
FUNDS REQUESTED: $1,204,000
DESCRIPTION: This article requests funds for wheeled carts for all households who are served by the municipal
solid waste program.
ARTICLE 24 ELDERLY AND DISABLED TAXATION AID FUND & COMMITTEE (GL c. 60, § 3D)
To see if the Town will vote to accept the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 60, Section 3D, which authorizes municipalities to establish a dedicated Elderly and Disabled Taxation Aid Fund; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
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(Inserted by the Select Board)
DESCRIPTION: The purpose of this article is to establish a fund to provide financial assistance to elderly and disabled residents of low income who, in the judgment of the fund’s administrators, are unable to fully meet their real estate tax obligations; establish a committee charged with developing and administering local policies and
procedures for awarding aid; and add a voluntary check-off option for voluntary donations on quarterly tax bills.
ARTICLE 25 SURCHARGE ON SPECIFIC RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (Citizen Petition)
To see if the Town will vote to establish a surcharge on specific residential development activities for the purpose of
funding affordable and community housing construction, renovation, associated land acquisition or easements; and
further to authorize the Select Board to petition the Massachusetts General Court to enact legislation to enable this
surcharge in the Town of Lexington, and further to authorize the Select Board to approve amendments to said act before its enactment by the General Court that are within the scope of the general objectives of the petition; or act in
any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by Matthew Daggett and 9 or more registered voters)
DESCRIPTION: The purpose of this article is to authorize the Select Board to petition the Massachusetts General
Court to enact special legislation to help address the loss of moderate-income housing by establishing a surcharge on specific residential development activities, as previously approved under Special Town Meeting 2020-2 Article
6.
ARTICLE 26 OVERSEE FINANCIAL EXPENDITURES LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT
(Citizen Petition)
To see if the Town Meeting will authorize the Select Board to form a committee to oversee financial expenditures
for the BLOOM project (new Lexington High School). Additionally, for the committee to periodically report back
to the Town Meeting Members Association, and/or the Select Board, School Committee, and financial committees
on the fiscal progress of the project, or to act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by Gauri Govil and 9 or more registered voters)
DESCRIPTION: This article would authorize the Select Board to establish a committee to oversee the financial expenditures specifically related to the Lexington High School building project.
ARTICLE 27 PROCUREMENT FOR ONLINE CAPITAL PROJECT PLATFORM (Citizen Petition)
To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Town Manager, in consultation with the Purchasing Director,
Procurement Office and the Assistant Town Manager for Finance, to procure, through a competitive process consistent with M.G.L. c. 30B and other applicable law, an online capital project financial transparency platform to provide the public with searchable, downloadable, and regularly updated visibility into Town and School
Department capital projects; such platform to present project-level budget information and status, including but not
limited to approved budgets, expenditures to date, remaining balances, contracts, change orders, invoices, and cumulative spending versus budget; provided that any data published shall be subject to appropriate redaction and exclusion of confidential or personally identifiable information as required by law; and further to appropriate a sum not to exceed $50,000, or take any other action relative thereto.
(Inserted by Steven Kaufman and 9 or more registered voters)
FUNDS REQUESTED : $50,000
DESCRIPTION: This article would authorize the Town Manager to procure a financial platform to provide additional information to the public regarding capital projects.
ARTICLE 28 SPEED HUMPS - WALNUT STREET (Citizen Petition)
That the Town install three speed humps or speed cushions on Walnut St. in order to help calm speeding traffic on a
dangerous and hazardous road. Car numbers traversing on Walnut St. are bound to increase when massive new
construction in the area and especially on Concord Ave. commences. The positive experience of speed humps on
Shade St. should guide the town's experience.
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(Inserted by Robert Rotberg and 9 or more registered voters)
DESCRIPTION: This article would request that the Town install speed humps or speed cushions on Walnut St.
GENERAL ARTICLES
ARTICLE 29 SELECT BOARD TO ACCEPT EASEMENTS
To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Select Board to acquire by purchase, gift, or eminent domain or
otherwise accept, easement interests for trails, drainage, sewer, utility or other public purposes, on such terms and
conditions and in a final location or locations as the Select Board may determine, or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
DESCRIPTION: This article would permit the Select Board to accept easements for trails and utility infrastructure
in order to allow these amenities to be built and conveyed to the Town as required in accordance with many land
use permits, as opposed to requiring each such easement to be approved by Town Meeting.
ARTICLE 30 AMENDMENT TO ANNUAL MEETING DATE (ELECTION) PROVISIONS IN TOWN BYLAW
To see if the Town will vote to amend Chapter 118, Section 118-4 of the Code of Lexington to hold the annual
municipal election on a Tuesday, rather than a Monday; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
DESCRIPTION: This article would change future municipal elections from Mondays to Tuesdays.
ARTICLE 31 AMENDMENT-CHAPTER 90, § 9 "REGULATION OF REFUSE DISPOSAL"
To see if the Town will vote to amend § 90-9 of the Code of the Town of Lexington to permit the Select Board to impose reasonable fees in connection with the disposal of waste and to otherwise update and modernize theterminology in said section; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board)
DESCRIPTION: This Article proposes to update § 90-9 of the Town bylaws to reflect modern practices for trash disposal, including (a) state regulation of solid waste disposal; and (b) the potential imposition of fees to incentivizewaste reduction and control program costs.
ARTICLE 32 AMEND GENERAL BYLAWS CHAPTER 35
To see if the Town will vote to amend Chapter 35 of the Town of Lexington General Bylaws to reflect a change in
the name of a state agency referenced therein; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board at the request of the Council on Aging)
DESCRIPTION: This article would amend the Town of Lexington General Bylaws to reflect a name change to a
state department from the Office of Elder Affairs to the Executive Office of Aging and Independence (AGE).
ARTICLE 33 UNIVERSAL DESIGN RESOLUTION
To see if the Town will vote to adopt a non-binding resolution to reaffirm the Town's public commitment
to inclusivity, as well as to the ongoing improvement of accessibility and usability in housing for all
community members.
(Inserted by the Select Board at the request of the Commission on Disabilities)
DESCRIPTION: This article aims to broaden the community’s understanding of what accessibility trulymeans. Practical examples of universal design features include no-step entries, wide doorways and
13
hallways, accessible first-floor bathrooms, and structural elements such as wall studs positioned for easy future installation of grab bars, or stacked closets designed to accommodate a future elevator. These
features not only support residents in aging in place but also ensure that homes can easily adapt to the needs of individuals with physical challenges.
ARTICLE 34 SKIP THE STUFF (Citizen Petition)
To see if the Town will vote to amend the general by-laws to establish a customer opt-in requirement for distribution of single-use service ware and single-use packaged condiments or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by Laura Swain 9 or more registered voters)
DESCRIPTION: This article would reduce plastic waste by prohibiting the distribution of certain food and beverage serviceware and single-use items unless they are requested by the customer.
ZONING ARTICLES
ARTICLE 35 AMEND ZONING BYLAW - TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS
To see if the Town will vote to approve amendments to the Zoning Bylaw, Chapter 135 of the Code of the Town of
Lexington, that are clerical in nature to correct any typographical errors, create consistency, or make other non-
substantive changes; or act in any other manner in relation thereto.
(Inserted by the Select Board at the request of the Planning Board)
DESCRIPTION: This article would not change the Zoning Bylaw in any substantive way, but would correct typos, changes to section references for consistency, and correct any errors discovered during the public hearing process for zoning amendments.
And you are directed to serve this warrant not less than seven days at least before the time of said meeting, as provided in the Bylaws of the Town.
Hereof fail not, and make due return on this warrant, with your doings thereon, to the Town Clerk, on or before the time of said
meeting.
Given under our hands at Lexington this 2nd day of February, 2026.
Jill I. Hai, Chair Select Board
Joseph N. Pato
Douglas M. Lucente of
Mark D. Sandeen
Vineeta A. Kumar Lexington
A true copy, Attest: Constable of Lexington
14
ATTACHMENT A
Town of Lexington
MODERATOR DEBORAH BROWN
January 20, 2026 DELIVERED BY EMAIL
Dear Select Board Members,
Pursuant to Massachusetts Section 26 of Chapter 22 of the Acts of 2022, as amended by Section
47 of Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023, I request approval to conduct the 2026 Annual Town
Meeting as a hybrid meeting. I propose to use a combination of: (1) the Zoom videoconferencing
platform, (2) the online voting tool developed by Select Board member Joe Pato, and (3) an
online queuing function developed by Select Board member Joe Pato to facilitate the process of debate.
I certify that all components of the system described above have been fully tested and utilized
successfully for prior Town Meetings, and I am satisfied that this system enables our meetings to
be conducted in substantially the same manner whether a member is participating in person or remotely. I certify that the system for those opting for remote participation (i) allows the
moderator, town meeting members, town officials and any other interested members of the
public to identify and hear the moderator and each town meeting member who attends and
participates in the remote meeting, as well as any other individuals who participate in the
meeting; (ii) provides the ability to determine whether a quorum is present; (iii) allows participants to request recognition by the moderator and makes such requests visible to the
meeting participants and the public; (iv) allows the moderator to determine when a town meeting
member wishes to be recognized to speak, make a motion, or raise a point of order or personal
privilege; (v) enables the moderator to recognize a town meeting member, town official or other
individual and enable that person to speak; (vi) provides the ability to conduct a roll call or electronically recorded vote; (vii) allows any interested members of the public to access the
meeting remotely through LexMedia for purposes of witnessing the deliberations and actions
taken at the town meeting; (viii) allows members of the public to participate in debate in-person
or through the submission of statements for or against a motion; and (ix) provides for the town
meeting to be recorded and available for future viewing. I further confirm that I have consulted with Lexington’s Commission on Disability regarding system accessibility.
Sincerely,
Deborah Brown
Town Moderator617-512-7901
1625 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE • LEXINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02420
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TOWN MEETING MEMBERS AS OF JANUARY 28, 2026For most current list, go to: https://records.lexingtonma.gov/WebLink/0/doc/2504291/Page1.aspx
AT LARGE MEMBERS
Michael J. Barrett, 7 Augustus Rd.Deborah Johnson Brown, 47 Robinson Rd.Michelle Ciccolo, 50 Shade St.Jill I. Hai, 6 Highland Ave.
Vineeta Ajay Kumar, 14 Munroe Rd.Douglas Matthew Lucente, 17 Vine Brook Rd. Joseph N. Pato, 900 Massachusetts Ave.Mark Sandeen, 10 Brent Rd.
Precinct 1Term Expires 2026John Curtis Bartenstein, 46 Sanderson Rd.
Jay Luker, 26 Rindge Ave.Noah Samuel Michelson, 45 Circle Rd. Margaret Muckenhoupt, 19 Whipple Rd. John Francis Rossi, 40 Arcola St.Bella D. Tsvetkova, 42 Lowell St.
Albert Paul Zabin, 1 Page Rd.
Term Expires 2027Sandhya Raju Beebee, 10 Page Rd.Robert William Cunha, 10 Stevens Rd.Tanya Jacqueline Gisolfi, 22 Cliffe Ave.Janet Mersfelder Kern, 72 Lowell St.Katherine Reynolds, 114 Lowell St.Carol Jeanne Sampson, 8 Brandon St.Judith Liskov Zabin, 1 Page Rd.
Term Expires 2028Lois Angelo, 11 Spencer St.Cristina Ann Burwell, 6 Albemarle Ave.Sarah England Carter, 5 Spencer St.Ezzard Charles James, 218 Lowell St.Eric Jay Michelson, 45 Circle Rd.Valerie Gale Overton, 25 Emerson Gdns.*Kyle Robert York, 15 Cliffe Ave.
Precinct 2Term Expires 2026Avram Smith Baskin , 43 Carville Ave.Sarah Sarver Daggett, 11 White Pine Ln.Carolyn M. Goldstein, 10 Peacock Farm Rd.Jeffrey Clarke Howry, 5 Bennett Ave.Mark Allan Manasas, 6 Bennett Ave.Jonathan Edward Suber, 56 Taft Ave.Laura Wilson Swain, 29 Locust Ave.
Term Expires 2027Marian A. Cohen, 8 Plymouth Rd.Barbara Katzenberg, 37 Moon Hill Rd.Peter Bernard Lee, 770 Waltham St.Syed Ali Rizvi, 237 Worthen Rd. EKenneth J. Shine, 7 Ellis St.
Rita Vachani, 75 Blossomcrest Rd.
Amy Karen Weinstock, 33 Dawes Rd.
Term Expires 2028Matthew Cohen, 29 Tower Rd.Matthew Patton Daggett, 11 White Pine Ln.Rita B. Goldberg, 10 Independence Ave.Ajay T. Joseph, 46 Golden Ave.Sean D. Osborne, 822 Massachusetts Ave. Ricki Donna Pappo, 16 Blossomcrest Rd. Betsey Weiss, 8 Dover Ln.
Precinct 3Term Expires 2026Bronte Meredith Abraham, 22 Hudson Rd. Cynthia E. Arens, 7 Kitson Park Dr.Norman Paul Cohen, 1010 Waltham St. #291Steven Philip Heinrich, 11 Potter PondIpek Ozer-Stillman, 6 Stonewall Rd.Hua Wang, 16 Hudson Rd.Stanley Yap, 30 April Ln.
Term Expires 2027Joshua F. Apgar, 31 Barberry Rd.James Britton Baldwin, 39 Potter PondDelanot Bastien, 3111 Main Campus Dr.Michael J. Martignetti, 37 Barberry Rd. Letha MS Prestbo, 470 Concord Ave. Robert I. Rotberg, 960 Waltham St. #471 Michael J. Schanbacher, 516 Concord Ave.
Term Expires 2028Courtney McCollum Apgar, 31 Barberry Rd. Sallye F. Bleiberg, 960 Waltham St, #170 Sudhir K. Jain, 3 Benjamin Rd.Jeanne Kann Krieger, 44 Webster Rd.Glenn Parker, 186 Spring St.Prashant Singh, 65 Munroe Rd.Franklin E. Smith, 7 Potter Pond*David Andrew Simons, 3 Field Rd.*Richard Samuel Treitman, 17 Barberry Rd.
Precinct 4Term Expires 2026
Alessandro Alessandrini, 32 Slocum Rd.
Michael P. Boudett, 39 Prospect Hill Rd.
Kathryn Rivard Colburn, 49 Forest St.
Katie Ponty Cutler, 115 Kendall Rd.
Heather Lynn Hartshorn, 62 Farmcrest Ave.
Nancy Ann Shepard, 2 Baskin Rd.Ruth S. Thomas, 10 Parker St.
Term Expires 2027Gloria J. Bloom, 17 Loring Rd.Kunal P. Botla, 40 Grapevine Ave.
Robert N. Cohen, 10 Grassland St.
Eileen S. Jay, 191 Waltham St.
Charles Wheeler Lamb, 55 Baskin Rd.
Kathleen M. Lenihan, 60 Bloomfield St.
Jennifer Beth Richlin, 36 Sherburne Rd.
Term Expires 2028Nyles Nathan Barnert, 142 Worthen Rd.
Wendy K. Manz, 3 Captain Parker Arms #24
Gerlad Paul, 43 Highland Ave.
Kathryn Ann Roy, 382 Marrett Rd
Carol R. Sacerdote, 15 Loring Rd.
Peter Shapiro, 113 Waltham St.
Sandra J. Shaw, 51 Wachusett Dr.
*Andrew Emil Pomerantz, 27 Sherburne Rd.
*Elizabeth Wenrong Xu, 25 Baskin Rd.
Precinct 5Term Expires 2026Nancy Corcoran-Ronchetti, 340 Lowell St.Judith Ann Crocker, 5 Currier Ct.Anthony Grant Galaitsis, 7 Burroughs Rd.Steven B. Kaufman, 116 East Emerson Rd.Pamela B. Lyons, 51 Grant St.Lin Xu, 117 Vine St.Lily Yan, 46 Courtyard Pl.
Term Expires 2027Anil Ahuja, 7 Leonard Rd.Ting Fang, 39 Courtyard Pl.Sarah E. Higginbotham, 21 Byron Ave.Joyce S. Murphy, 1505 Massachusetts Ave. #12Kristin McKay Pechinsky, 38 Saddle Club Rd.
Marc A. Saint Louis, 5 Brookwood Rd.
Alex J. Tsouvalas, 77 Grant St.
Term Expires 2028
Monica Karen Davis, 26 Hayes Ln.
Marilyn Moore Fenollosa, 10 Marshall Rd.
Anrew Friedlich, 22 Young St.
Jerold Scott Michelson, 3 Clyde Pl.
Melanie Alberta Thompson, 360 Lowell St.
M. Masha Traber, 106 Maple St.
John Zhiqiang Zhao, 10 Cooke Rd.
*†Larry Deon Freeman, Jr., 109 East
Emerson Rd.
*Catherine Yan, 211 East Emerson Rd.
* New Candidates for 2026 Annual Town Election† Moved/Resigned
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS AS OF JANUARY 28, 2026For most current list, go to: https://records.lexingtonma.gov/WebLink/0/doc/2504291/Page1.aspx
Precinct 6Term Expires 2026Thomas C. Barry, 159 Burlington St.Jonathan Andrew Himmel, 66 Hancock St.Morton Gerald Kahan, 44 Hancock St.Innessa Anne Manning, 46 York St.Bridger E. McGaw, 89 Meriam St.Dinesh Patel, 22 Brent Rd.Ryan Wise, 5 Castle Rd.
Term Expires 2027Edmund C. Grant, 27 Grove St.Jyotsna Kakullavarapu, 5 Diamond Rd.Brian P. Kelley, 44 Grant St.Susan Ann McLeish, 665 Lowell St. #52Deepika Sawhney, 6 Porter Ln.
Taylor Singh, 40 Hancock St.
Vinita Verma, 3 Graham Rd.
Term Expires 2028
Sara Gurley Bothwell Allen, 158 Burlington St.
Margaret L. Counts-Klebe, 8 Hancock Ave.
Jeremy Levitan, 10 Adams St.
Dawn Elizabeth McKenna, 9 Hancock St.
Deborah Cohen Strod, 10 Thoreau Rd.
Eran Cohen Strod, 10 Thoreau Rd.
Sarah Jasmin Wolfson, 164 Grant St.
*Priya Narasimhan Patel, 17 Hancock St.
Precinct 7
Term Expires 2026Sara Cuthbertson, 541 Bedford St.Harry Clarke Forsdick, 46 Burlington St.Pam Hoffman, 4 RangewayVita Baterina Hom, 175 Grove St.Samita A. Mandelia, 59 Harding Rd.Raul Marques-Pascual, 4 John Benson Rd.Tina M. McBride, 45 Turning Mill Rd.Umesh Shelat, 34 James St.
Term Expires 2027Marsha Baker, 46 Burlington St.Philip Kennedy Hamilton, 23 Fifer Ln.Stacey A. Hamilton, 25 Robinson Rd.Meghana Khanolkar, 63 Winter St.Benjamin Charles Lees, 57 Gleason Rd.
Pamela C. Tames, 26 Bertwell Rd.
Term Expires 2028Archan Basu, 34 Harding Rd.Katharine Blauer, 46 Robinson Rd.Robert Kevin Creech, 2 Grimes Rd.Sandra Hackman, 65 Fifer Ln.Letitia Hom, 175 Grove St.Vikas Kinger, 13 Donald St.Monami D. Roy, 36 Bertwell Rd.
Precinct 8Term Expires 2026
Robert M. Avallone, 21 Constitution Rd.
Lauren Deems Black, III, 143 Bedford St.
Shailesh Chandra, 10 Childs Rd.
Gang Chen, 24 Bellflower St.
Thomas R. Diaz, 13 Lois Ln.
Robin L. Lovett, 18 Bates Rd.
Andrei Radulescu Banu, 86 Cedar St.
Term Expires 2027Heidi Pasternak Burkholder, 51 Ward St.Lin Jensen, 133 Reed St.Brielle Kissel Meade, 17 Manning St.James Arthur Osten, 8 Revere St.Sanjay Padaki, 46 Ward St.Dahua Pan, 34 Balfour St.Jessica G. Steigerwald, 143 Cedar St.
Term Expires 2028
Peggy Enders, 11 Kimball Rd.
Alix O’Brien Fox, 5 Hillside Ter.
Betty J. Gau, 64 Ward St.
Alan Mayer Levine, 54 Reed St.
Lisa A. Newton, 15 Ledgelawn Ave.
Sudhir Ranjan, 155 Reed St.
Alan V. Seferian, 10 Augustus Rd.
*Victoria C. Buckley, 18 Bates Rd.
* Nicola Jane Sykes, 12 Bellflower St.
Precinct 9
Shireen Ahmed, 393 Lincoln St.Mark Valerian Andersen, 2400 Massachusetts Ave. Hema P. Bhatt, 8 Jean Rd.Todd O. Burger, 386 Lincoln St.Jeanne Patricia Canale, 29 Shade St.Suzanne D. Lau, 18 Phinney Rd.Lisah Susan Schmidt Rhodes, 482 Marrett Rd.
Term Expires 2027Richard Lewis Canale, 29 Shade St.Mollie K. Garberg, 16 Cary Ave.Kimberly Ann Hensle Lowrance, 23 Tufts Rd.Philip T. Jackson, 50 Shade St.Ethan Paul Kiczek, 26 Tufts Rd.Alicia M. Morris, 19 Welch RdThomas R. Shiple, 18 Phinney Rd.
Term Expires 2028Victoria Lawrence Blier, 41 Shade St.Scott Foster Burson, 5 Willard Cir.Rodney Elias Cole, 80 School St.Diana J. Donovan, 112 Shade St.Foster Joseph Jackson, 50 Shade St.Elizabeth Ruth Mettetal, 6 Hastings Rd.
* New Candidates for 2026 Annual Town Election† Moved/Resigned
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
LEXINGTON SELECT BOARD MEETING
AGENDA ITEM TITLE:
Discussion: FY27 Town Manager's Preliminary Budget & Financial Planning
PRESENTER:
Board Discussion
ITEM
NUMBER:
I.3
SUMMARY:
Category: Discussion
As a follow up to the 1/28/2026 Financial Summit, the Select Board will discuss the proposed FY27 Town
Manager's Preliminary Budget & Financial Planning.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
FOLLOW-UP:
DATE AND APPROXIMATE TIME ON AGENDA:
2/2/2026 7:30pm
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
White Book Summit III Presentation FY2027_1.27.2027 Backup Material
2026.01.28 email communication - School email-Memo for Budget
consideration Backup Material
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget & Financing Plan
Budget Summit III
January 28, 2026
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
2
The FY2027 budgets proposed by the Town Manager and
Superintendent of Schools provide for a Balanced Town Budget
Revenue Summary FY2026 Recap FY2027 Projected $ Change % Change
Tax Levy $ 249,047,036 $ 258,361,669 $ 9,314,632 3.7%
State Aid $ 21,532,602 $ 22,181,496 $ 648,894 3.0%
Local Receipts $ 17,198,317 $ 18,821,440 $ 1,623,122 9.4%
Available Funds*$ 25,611,684 $ 22,352,051 $ (3,259,633) (12.7)%
Revenue Offsets $ (2,175,841) $ (2,360,640) $ (184,799) 8.5%
Enterprise Funds (Indirect)$ 1,935,189 $ 2,047,125 $ 111,936 5.8%
Total General Fund $ 313,148,989 $ 321,403,140 $ 8,254,153 2.6%
Expenditure Summary FY2026 Appropriated
FY2027 Recommended Budget $ Change % Change
Lexington Public Schools $ 146,033,333 $ 151,729,248 $ 5,695,915 3.9%
Minuteman High School $ 3,569,482 $ 4,149,188 $ 579,706 16.2%
Shared Expenses $ 77,370,757 $ 82,329,423 $ 4,958,666 6.4%
Municipal Departments $ 50,995,276 $ 52,995,295 $ 2,000,020 3.9%
Cash Capital-Tax Levy and Available Funds $ 19,524,216 $ 18,158,612 $ (1,365,604) (7.0)%
Other**$ 15,655,924 $ 12,041,374 $ (3,614,550) (23.1)%
Total - General Fund Only $ 313,148,988 $ 321,403,140 $ 8,254,152 2.6%
* Available Funds reflects one-time revenue sources, primarily Free Cash.
** Other expenses are primarily set-asides into reserves including the Capital Stabilization Fund, OPEB Trust, and SPED Reserve.
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
3
General Fund Revenue Projections
% GrowthProjected GF Revenue Actual GF RevenueFY2015FY2016FY2017FY2018FY2019FY2020FY2021FY2022FY2023FY2024 FY2025FY2026FY2027—%
2.50%
5.00%
7.50%
10.00%
•The total FY2027 General Fund revenue projection of 2.6% is lower than prior years,
primarily due to a decrease in Available Funds (Free Cash, estimated at $20.5M).
•Recurring revenues, those allocated for ongoing operations, are increasing by 3.9%
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
4
FY2027 Balanced Budget
Tax Levy
79.8%
State Aid
6.9%
Local Receipts
5.8%
Available Funds
6.9%
Enterprise Funds (Indirect)
0.6%
FY2027 Revenue Summary
Tax Levy $ 258,361,669
State Aid $ 22,181,496
Local Receipts $ 18,821,440
Available Funds $ 22,352,051
Revenue Offsets $ (2,360,640)
Enterprise Funds (Indirects)$ 2,047,125
Total $ 321,403,141
Schools
48.5%
Employee Benefits
14.0%
Retirement
3.8%
Debt Service
2.0%
Other Shared Expenses
1.0%
Facilities
4.8%
Municipal Departments
16.5%
Cash Capital
5.6%
Reserves/Other
3.7%FY2027 Expense Summary
Schools $ 155,878,436
Employee Benefits $ 45,071,638
Debt Service $ 12,300,042
Retirement $ 6,274,815
Other Shared Expenses $ 3,152,786
Facilities $ 15,530,142
Municipal Departments $ 52,995,295
Cash Capital $ 18,158,612
Reserves/Other $ 12,041,375
Total $ 321,403,141
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
5
FY2027 Revenue Allocation Summary
(in thousands)Summit I Summit III
1 Total Revenues $ 320,164 $ 321,403
2 Less: FY2026 School Budget $ 146,033 74.0%$ 146,033 74.0%
3
Less: FY2026 Municipal Budget
(inc.Community Center)$ 51,264 26.0%$ 51,264 26.0%
4 Less: Shared Expenses $ 88,489 $ 86,479
5 Less: Set-Asides $ 29,693 $ 29,932
6 Total Base Budget $ 315,479 $ 313,708 $ Change
7
Total New Revenue to be
Allocated $ 4,685 $ 7,695 $ 3,010
8 School Alloc./ FY2027 Total $ 3,467 74.0%$ 5,696 74.0%$ 2,229
9 Muni Alloc. / FY2027 Total $ 1,217 26.0%$ 1,999 26.0%$ 782
Summit I Revenue Allocation %Inc vs PY Initial Budget Request %Inc vs PY Surplus/ (Shortfall)
10 FY2027 School budget $ 149,501 2.4%$ 152,810 4.6%$ (3,309)
11 FY2027 Municipal budget $ 52,481 2.4%$ 53,871 5.1%$ (1,390)
Summit III Revenue Allocation %Inc vs PY Updated Budget Request %Inc vs PY Surplus/ (Shortfall)
12 FY2027 School budget $ 151,729 3.9%$ 151,729 3.9%$ —
13 FY2027 Municipal budget $ 53,263 3.9%$ 53,263 3.9%$ —
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
6
Original Revised Variance Description
$ 320,163,931 $ 321,403,140 $ 1,239,209 Updated Investment Income Projection (from $1.5M to $2.5M); add unused bond proceeds $239,209
$ 1,239,209 Total Revenue Increase/ (Decrease)
$ 3,926,430 $ 4,149,188 $ 222,758 Updated Minuteman assessment, per preliminary budget
$ 46,420,190 $ 44,371,638 $ (2,048,552) Updated Health Benefits assuming 9% premium increase (vs 15%)
$ 15,645,142 $ 15,530,142 $ (115,000) Revisions to Facilities shared service budget (including PIR)
$ 70,000 $ — $ (70,000) Facilities PIR -initial request
$ (2,010,794) Shared Expenses Increase/ (Decrease)
$ 1,000,000 $ 2,152,935 $ 1,152,935 Set-Aside for as yet to be identified FY2027 needs (Free Cash)
$ 16,743,229 $ 15,054,503 $ (1,688,726) Cash Capital - Free Cash and Other Available Funds
$ — $ 700,000 $ 700,000 Set-aside for one-time School Curriculum Purchase (Free Cash)
$ — $ 75,000 $ 75,000 Set Aside for Vision Survey (Free Cash)
$ 239,209 Set-Aside One-Time Funds Increase/ (Decrease)
$ 3,010,794 Net Positive/ (Negative) Impact on Revenue Allocation
74%$ 2,227,987 Additional School Allocation
26%$ 782,806 Additional Municipal Allocation
Summary of Revenue Allocation Changes from Summit I
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
7
FY2027 Shared Expenses Budget Summary
Shared Expenses
FY2026
Appropriated
FY2027
Recommended
Budget $ Change % Change
Minuteman Regional School $ 3,569,482 $ 4,149,188 $ 579,706 16.2%
Shared Expenses:
Retirement $ 11,521,504 $ 12,300,042 $ 778,538 6.8%
Employee Benefits $ 41,147,189 $ 44,371,638 $ 3,224,449 7.8%
Other Benefit Expenses*$ 700,000 $ 700,000 $ — —%
Property & Liability Insurance $ 1,477,696 $ 1,653,542 $ 175,846 11.9%
Solar Producer Payments $ 390,000 $ 390,000 $ — —%
Debt Service $ 5,983,068 $ 6,274,815 $ 291,747 4.9%
Reserve Fund $ 850,000 $ 1,000,000 $ 150,000 17.6%
Public Facilities $ 15,189,766 $ 15,530,142 $ 340,376 2.2%
Town/School Refuse & Recycling $ 112,128 $ 109,244 $ (2,884) (2.6)%
Total Shared Expenses $ 77,371,351 $ 82,329,423 $ 4,958,072 6.4%
Grand Total $ 80,940,833 $ 86,478,611 $ 5,537,778 6.8%
*Other includes Workers Compensation and Unemployment
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
8
Revenues Set-Aside for Designated Expenses - FY2027
Tax Levy Free Cash Other Total
1 Set-Aside for Unanticipated Current Fiscal Year Needs $ — $ 250,000 $ — $ 250,000
2 Unallocated $ — $ 2,037,935 $ — $ 2,037,935
3 Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB)$ — $ 2,129,721 $ — $ 2,129,721
4 Cash Capital $ — $ 14,907,344 $ 262,159 $ 15,169,503
5 Set-Aside for School Literacy Curriculum $ — $ 700,000 $ — $ 700,000
6 Appropriate into Capital Stabilization Fund $ 6,580,908 $ — $ — $ 6,580,908
7 Street Improvement Program $ 2,746,777 $ — $ — $ 2,746,777
8 Municipal Building Envelope and Systems $ 242,332 $ — $ — $ 242,332
9 Warrant Articles $ — $ 75,000 $ — $ 75,000
10 Subtotal $ 9,570,016 $ 20,100,000 $ 262,159 $ 29,932,175
11 Free Cash to Support Operating Budget $ — $ — $ — $ —
12 Contribution to Pension Fund $ — $ 400,000 $ — $ 400,000
13 Grand Total $ 9,570,016 $ 20,500,000 $ 262,159 $ 30,332,175
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
9
Municipal Budget Update
Municipal Allocation
Deficit from Initial Requested Budget $ (1,390,226)
Additional Revenue Allocation $ 782,806
Municipal Budget Reductions $ 599,544
Refinement of Salary Projections $ 7,876
Remaining Deficit $ —
*Total reductions includes net reductions in Facilities Department ($115,000)
Reduction Classification Reduction Amount Notes
Adds Financial Risk $ (410,498) Purchase Deferrals; Reduce Professional & Contract Services
Discretionary $ (19,000) Internship programs
Hiring Freeze $ (58,946) 1 FTE DPW
Internal Reduction $ (71,200) Travel, Conferences, Professional Development
Supply/Maintenance Reduction $ (189,900) Supplies or Ongoing Maintenance
Garage Door Maintenance PIR $ 35,000 Add Program Improvement
Total Reductions*$ (714,544)
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
10
FY2027 Municipal Department Budget Summary
Public Works
28.2%
Law Enforcement
18.6%
Fire & EMS
18.2%
Library
7.2%Human Services
3.5%
Health
1.1%
LUHD
4.9%
Select Board
3.0%
Town Manager
3.2%
Town Committees
0.1%
Finance
4.4%
Town Clerk
1.3%
Innovation & Technology
6.3%
FY2027 Budget Summary
Public Works $ 14,740,639
Law Enforcement $ 9,701,473
Fire & EMS $ 9,481,822
Library $ 3,762,283
Human Services $ 1,828,850
Health $ 560,006
LUHD $ 2,542,629
Select Board $ 1,553,553
Town Manager $ 1,674,736
Town Committees $ 73,120
Finance $ 2,315,760
Town Clerk $ 680,998
Innovation & Technology $ 3,279,426
Total $ 52,195,295
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
11
Balancing the FY2027 Municipal Budget
Municipal Budgets FY2027 Initial Request FY2027 Delete FY2027 Add
FY2027 Recommended Budget
Public Facilities*$ 15,645,142 $ (150,000) $ 35,000 $ 15,530,142
Municipal Departments:
Public Works $ 14,868,709 $ (128,070) $ 14,740,639
Police $ 9,821,573 $ (120,100) $ 9,701,473
Fire $ 9,600,822 $ (119,000) $ 9,481,822
Library $ 3,790,583 $ (28,300) $ 3,762,283
Human Services $ 1,846,200 $ (17,350) $ 1,828,850
Health $ 565,006 $ (5,000) $ 560,006
Land Use Department $ 2,598,453 $ (55,824) $ 2,542,629
Select Board $ 1,573,553 $ (20,000) $ 1,553,553
Town Manager $ 1,704,736 $ (30,000) $ 1,674,736
Salary Adjustment Account $ 840,000 $ (40,000) $ 800,000
Town Committees $ 73,120 $ 73,120
Finance $ 2,339,660 $ (23,900) $ 2,315,760
Town Clerk $ 682,998 $ (2,000) $ 680,998
Innovation & Technology $ 3,289,426 $ (10,000) $ 3,279,426
Total Municipal Departments $ 53,594,839 $ (599,544) $ — $ 52,995,295
*Public Facilities is a shared service. Initial request does not include PIR of $70K.
Total does not include $109K Shared Exp.for Refuse & Recycling Collection for School & Muni. Buildings
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
12
FY2027 Municipal Department Budget Summary
Municipal Budgets
FY2026
Appropriated
FY2027
Recommended
Budget $ Change % Change
Public Facilities*$ 15,189,172 $ 15,530,142 $ 340,970 2.2%
Municipal Departments:
Public Works $ 13,971,800 $ 14,740,639 $ 768,839 5.5%
Police $ 9,745,978 $ 9,701,473 $ (44,505) (0.5)%
Fire $ 9,458,988 $ 9,481,822 $ 22,834 0.2%
Library $ 3,691,461 $ 3,762,283 $ 70,822 1.9%
Human Services $ 1,703,597 $ 1,828,850 $ 125,253 7.4%
Health $ 561,024 $ 560,006 $ (1,018) (0.2)%
Land Use Department $ 2,465,236 $ 2,542,629 $ 77,393 3.1%
Select Board $ 1,439,529 $ 1,553,553 $ 114,024 7.9%
Town Manager $ 1,609,722 $ 1,674,736 $ 65,014 4.0%
Salary Adjustment Account $ — $ 800,000 $ 800,000 —%
Town Committees $ 73,120 $ 73,120 $ — —%
Finance $ 2,206,218 $ 2,315,760 $ 109,542 5.0%
Town Clerk $ 692,479 $ 680,998 $ (11,481) (1.7)%
Innovation & Technology $ 3,376,124 $ 3,279,426 $ (96,698) (2.9)%
Total Municipal Departments $ 50,995,276 $ 52,995,295 $ 2,000,020 3.9%
*Public Facilities is a shared service.
Total does not include $109K Shared Exp.for Refuse & Recycling Collection for School & Muni. Buildings
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
13
FY2027 General Fund Budget Highlights
•Lexington High School Financing: Construction & debt service will begin in
FY2027; an $800K draw-down from the Capital Stabilization Fund is recommended
to mitigate taxpayer impact.
•Refuse, Recycling & Composing: Plans are underway to restructure the Town's
refuse and recycling program to automated collection beginning in FY2028.
◦The FY2027 Capital budget recommends $1.2M for new carts (11,000 for each
program) to make this transition. The FY2027 operating budget continues to
fund compost collection for 4,000 households at no charge to the customer.
•Public Transportation: The Human Services budget includes new contractual
rates for the Lexpress Bus Service, which includes replacement of the bus fleet.
The new 5-year contract began in FY2026.
•Public Access Television: A new contract will begin in FY2027 and is included in the
Select Board's budget. This budget allocates $200,000 of tax levy support to maintain
current levels of service, level from FY2026. The amount of General Fund support is
expected to increase in future budget cycles.
•Set Asides include $75K for funding for a Vision for Lexington Community Survey
to assess community needs and priorities and $700K for LPS one-time literacy
curriculum purchase to comply with state legislation.
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
14
Town Manager's Recommended FY2027 Program Improvements
Program
Department
Requests Recommended
Not
Recommended
Total General Fund Requests $749,461 $150,000 $596,961
Non-General Fund
Recreation Enterprise $100,000 $100,000 $—
Total Non-General Fund $100,000 $100,000 $—
Combined Requests Total $849,461 $250,000 $596,961
General Fund Recommended PIRs include:
•$35K for the Public Facilities to implement a maintenace program for garage
doors
•$115K for Tyler Cashiering module, requested by the Finance Department,
implemented in partnership with IT (in Capital Budget funded with Free Cash)
Non General Fund Recommended PIRs include:
•$100K for Recreation Strategic Plan (funded by Recreation Retained
Earnings)
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
15
Appropriate Into Reserve Funds
Lexington Pension Fund $12,300,042
–Current Balance (11/30/2025) $296.95 million
–88.5% Funded; On-target to reach full funding in 2030
Post-Employment Benefits Fund $2,137,029
–Current Balance (12/31/2025) $45.03 million
Capital Stabilization Fund $6,580,908
–Current Balance (12/31/2025) $50.53 million
No additional funding is recommended for the General Stabilization Fund, Special
Education Stabilization Fund, or Special Education Reserve Fund in FY2027.
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
16
Recommended Capital Budget - FY2027
Capital Requests Summary
Free Cash/ Tax Levy
Other Funding Sources Debt Total Other**
General Fund $ 17,896,453 $ — $ 2,500,000 $ 20,396,453 $ —
Excluded Debt Projects $ — $ — $ — $ — $ —
Other Funding & Chapter 90 $ — $ 262,159 $ — $ 262,159 $ 1,768,022
Water Enterprise $ — $ 2,606,639 $ — $ 2,606,639 $ —
Sewer Enterprise $ — $ 900,000 $ 404,080 $ 1,304,080 $ —
Recreation Enterprise $ — $ 190,000 $ — $ 190,000 $ —
Community Preservation Act*$ — $ 8,345,355 $ — $ 8,345,355 $ —
Total (all Funds)$ 17,896,453 $ 12,304,153 $ 2,904,080 $ 33,104,686 $ 1,768,022
*Includes both Town and non-Town CPA funded projects.
**Other represents Chapter 90 Aid for street improvements. This item does not require a Town Meeting appropriation.
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
17
FY2027 Capital Highlights
•LHS Emergency Funds - $400,000 to fund emergency equipment repairs at the
current LHS building until the new high school is operational.
•Ladder Truck - $2,500,000 (Debt Financed) to replace the fire department's 2017
ladder truck.
•Infrastructure Design Funds - $250,000 for North/Burlington sidewalk design and
$100,000 for intersection design on Adams Street at East & Hancock. These may
lead to construction projects of $5.2M and $5.5M respectively.
•Totes for Automated Trash Collection - $1,204,000 for purchase of refuse &
recycling carts for transition to automated collection in future cycles.
•Police Station EV Chargers - $463,000 to install EV chargers at the police station
to enable electric charging of the police department fleet.
•146 Maple St. Athletic Fields Construction - $2,630,000 from the Town's
Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds to construct new athletic fields after the
demolition of the Central Administration Building.
•Affordable Housing Trust (AHT) Funding - $3,200,000 from the Town's
Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds to fund AHT initiatives.
•Facilities Mechanical/Electric/Plumbing - $4,565,000 for Energy Recovery Units
and partial gas to electric HVAC conversion at Fiske Elementary School.
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
18
Capital Stabilization Fund Balance History
$21,730,961
$27,330,886
$32,769,537
$42,670,751
$50,168,582
$56,749,490
$6,580,908
FY2022 Actual FY2023 Actual FY2024 Actual FY2025 Actual FY2026 Approp.FY2027 Approp.
$0
$10,000,000
$20,000,000
$30,000,000
$40,000,000
$50,000,000
$60,000,000
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
19
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
20
Outstanding Items (as of 1/23/2026)
•State Aid - Cherry Sheet Estimates have been released, current Ch70 Aid is
proposed at $75/student vs estimated at $100/student in the budget. UGGA is
proposed higher than budget estimates. The State's budget remains in process.
•Health Insurance Premiums - Final increases in Health Insurance premiums are
expected in late February. Further guidance from the Group Insurance Commission
may be factored into the final recommended budget.
•Final Minuteman Assessment - Final assessment for Minuteman HS is expected
in early February when Minuteman's FY2027 Budget is finalized.
•FY2027 Debt Service - Current amount is a placeholder that may be impacted by
the February 2026 debt issuance.
•Citizen's Petitions - Citizen's petitions have been submitted for the 2026 Annual
Town Meeting, and are not included in the draft budget. These items may require
staffing or investment in technology or infrastructure.
•Free Cash - Current FY2027 estimate of $20,500,000 has not been certified by the
Department of Revenue. Staff recommends any surplus remain unallocated.
•Collective Bargaining Agreements - both Municipal and School departments are
in contract negotiations that will impact salary projections. Salary reserves are set-
aside for this purpose.
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
21
Current Policy Discussion Points
•How to adjust for changes in State Aid, Minuteman Assessment or Health
Insurance (if updated before the Brown Book):
◦A surplus of funds will be allocated to Municipal and School budgets
◦In the case of a shortfall, unallocated free cash will be applied to balance
•Continue to Set Aside Tax Levy/ New Levy Growth Into the Capital Stabilization
Fund: there is an implied trade-off between managing tax increases/LHS impact and
maintaining a level service budget
•Draw down of Capital Stabilization Fund: managing taxpayer impact of the Lexington
High School Project in early years to create a gradual increase in tax bills
•Maintain Existing Assets vs Creating New Assets: If less funding is available in
future years, guidance will be needed on the priority between continuing capital
programs and the creation of new assets. The future impact of current capital design
funds should be considered.
•Changes in Current Levels of Municipal and School Service: what level of services
the community can accept forgoing to avoid an override or changes to other budget
guidelines
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
22
Future Policy Discussion Points
•Funding Large Capital Projects post LHS (potential future debt exclusions): Long term capital
planning improvements include East Lexington Fire Station Reconstruction, Clark Middle School
HVAC, Library HVAC, and Town Office Building
•Renewable Energy Rebates: develop guidelines for redeploying rebate revenue or savings
generated by investment in renewable energy
•Pension & OPEB Funding: develop guidelines for redeploying resources if and when the Pension
liability is fully funded, including guidelines for maintaining fully funded status.
•Potential New Fee Revenue:
◦Stormwater Enterprise - if the new EPA permit requires significant investment in stormwater
management this may be necessary to comply
◦Composting & Bulky/White Good Removal - may be necessary if the cost of existing
services continues to increase or to add new services such as composting
◦Other potential revenue sources to be identified by staff in 2027
•Planning for changes in population and shift in tax base between Residential and Commercial
properties
•Operating Override: past guidance has been to balance the budget without an operating override;
staff continue with this assumption
Town of Lexington
FY2027 Preliminary Budget
23
Next Steps
•January 29, 2026- February 9, 2026 - Municipal and School staff to
respond to questions on operating and capital budgets; ongoing budget
deliberations
•February 9, 2026 - Select Board to vote FY2027 recommended budget
•On or Before February 27, 2026 - The final FY2027 recommended
budget will be distributed electronically to the Select Board,
Appropriation Committee, Capital Expenditures Committee and Town
Meeting Members. Printed copies to follow by request.
•March 30, 2026 - 2026 Annual Town Meeting Begins and may consider
financial articles
From: Steve Bartha <sbartha@lexingtonma.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, January 28, 2026 5:16 PM
To:Superintendent <superintendent@lexingtonma.org>; Carolyn Kosnoff <ckosnoff@lexingtonma.gov>; Jill Hai
<jhai@lexingtonma.gov>; Select Board <selectboard@lexingtonma.gov>; Glenn Parker <glenn.parker@comcast.net>; Charles Lamb <charles.lamb@gmail.com>; LPS School
Committee <school-com@lexingtonma.org>; Christopher Scully <cscully@lexingtonma.org>; Justin MacCutcheon <jmaccutcheon@lexingtonma.org>; Rosalyn Impink
<rimpink@lexingtonma.gov>
Subject: Re: Memo for Budget Summit IV
Hi Julie,
Just as a point of clarification, leaving $900,000 of free cash in your FY27 operating budget would
create a $900,000 hole to start the FY28 budget. When Carolyn started in 2017, the Town was using
close to $3.8 million in one-time revenues to balance the budget - a major red flag. It took six
budget cycles to correct this practice, and we've been clear at the previous summits in this cycle
that avoiding use of one-time revenue to balance the budget was the financial management team's
top priority.
Steve
From: Superintendent <superintendent@lexingtonma.org>
Sent: Wednesday, January 28, 2026 4:05 PM
To:Steve Bartha <sbartha@lexingtonma.gov>; Carolyn Kosnoff <ckosnoff@lexingtonma.gov>; Jill
Hai <jhai@lexingtonma.gov>; Select Board <selectboard@lexingtonma.gov>; Glenn Parker
<glenn.parker@comcast.net>; Charles Lamb <charles.lamb@gmail.com>; LPS School Committee
<school-com@lexingtonma.org>; Christopher Scully <cscully@lexingtonma.org>; Justin
MacCutcheon <jmaccutcheon@lexingtonma.org>
Subject: Memo for Budget Summit IV
Good afternoon,
At the School Committee's request, we put together a memo detailing the budget
development process to date, as well as our thoughts about the use of free cash.
It is our understanding that the current recommendation allocates approximately $900K to replace
free cash, $500K to schools, and $170K to municipal departments. However, if the standard
revenue allocation model were applied to the full $1.5M savings, schools would receive $1.1M and
municipal would receive $390K—bringing our total percentage increase to approximately 4.3%,
closer to our original request and actual needs.
We respectfully request that the full health insurance savings be allocated using the revenue
allocation model, in addition to the free cash already committed.
Please click here for the full memo, which we can discuss this evening if there's an opportunity.
Thanks and see you tonight.
Julie
Superintendent's Office
Lexington Public Schools
146 Maple Street
Lexington, MA 02420
781-861-2580 x68040
superintendent@lexingtonma.org
@lexingtonsuper
Joy in learning | Curiosity in life | Compassion in all we do.
Julie L. Hackett, Ed.D. (781) 861-2580, ext. 68040
Superintendent of Schools jhackett@lexingtonma.org
Fax: (781) 861-2560
January 28, 2026
Dear Town Summit Participants,
LPS FY'27 Budget Overview
Our initial budget request of 4.6% has been adjusted to 3.9%—still among the lowest increases in the
past decade, occurring in a year when we are negotiating four out of five union contracts.
Budget Timeline:
● LPS Initial Request: 4.6%
● Budget Summit I allocation: 2.6%
● Post-Summit I: 3.56% (+ $700K one-time literacy funding)
● Post-Summits II/III: 3.9% (+ $700K one-time literacy funding)
Recent health insurance savings of $1.5M present an opportunity to strengthen this allocation. The
current recommendation allocates approximately $900K to replace free cash, $500K to schools, and
$170K to municipal departments. However, if the standard revenue allocation model were applied to the
full $1.5M cost avoidance, schools would receive $1.1M and municipal would receive $390K—bringing
our total percentage increase to approximately 4.3%, closer to our original request and actual needs.
Even at 4.6%, our request represents less than level-service funding. We have 42 fewer FTEs compared
to the approved FY26 budget, with an anticipated 20-30 additional reductions to be identified this
spring—totaling approximately 62-72 FTE reductions in two years. We will also further deplete Circuit
Breaker reserves (the schools’ “one-time” funds equivalent) and continue operating with underfunded
critical budget lines.
We respectfully request that the full health insurance savings be allocated using the revenue
allocation model, in addition to the free cash already committed.
Budget Summit Outcomes
Each year, we project budget needs for the Lexington Public Schools for the next five years. This year,
we engaged CliftonLarsonAllen LLP (CLA) to conduct comprehensive financial modeling and analysis.
For more information, please see the draft CLA Report and the draft CLA Spreadsheet .
1
At Budget Summit I, our initial request was a 4.6% increase. The municipal response was
2.6%—approximately $3M (or 2%) less than our request, based on available revenues after set-asides.
In post-Summit discussions, the decision was made to use free cash to partially close this gap. An
additional $875,000 was allocated to schools, bringing our total to approximately 3.6%—still 1% below
our initial request. While we acknowledge that Lexington's revenue allocation model is generous
compared to less well-resourced communities, a 3.6% increase represents the lowest budget increase for
schools in the past ten years, particularly concerning in a year when we are negotiating four union
contracts.
Additionally, we received $700,000 in set-aside funds for the new state-mandated elementary literacy
curriculum (a one-time expense). The actual cost for a district our size will likely exceed $700,000 and
may require additional one-time funding from the Select Board and School Committee via the Special
Education Reserve Fund established in 2023.
Positive Development: GIC Health Insurance Adjustment
After Budget Summits II/III, we received welcome news from the Assistant Town Manager for Finance:
the GIC made adjustments and the original health insurance projection of 13.5% came in at 9%, freeing
up approximately $1.5M.
Current Municipal Recommendation:
● $900K to replace proposed free cash
● $500K added to school allocation
● $170K added to municipal allocation
Revenue Allocation Model Applied to Full Savings:
● $1.1M to schools (74%)
● $390K to municipal (26%)
● This would bring schools to approximately 4.3%—closer to our original request
While we appreciate fiscal prudence regarding free cash, we believe the GIC savings represent new,
unanticipated revenue that should be allocated using the established revenue allocation model, in
addition to—not in place of—the free cash commitment made at Budget Summits II/III.
What the 4.6% Request Represents
Our original 4.6% request is actually less than what a true level-service budget requires. Each Budget
Summit request reflects careful analysis and already incorporates significant constraints, and we do not
inflate numbers. To achieve even 4.6%, we had to:
● Substantially increased reliance on "one-time" Circuit Breaker funds. In recent history we were
nearly fully funded at 87%, which was the School Committee’s goal.
2
● Reduce our "high risk list" safety net for students with special needs for the third consecutive
year. The impact of this decision is that there will be limited funding for students with
unanticipated special needs requiring a high level of service. We will likely need to access
Special Education Stabilization and Special Education Revolving funds to address these needs.
● Underfund critical lines: transportation, tuition, substitutes, legal fees, and other expense lines
are underfunded or rely on less stable funding sources, such as revolving accounts
● Eliminate our unallocated positions safety net—typically several FTEs are built into the budget
to address legally mandated student requirements, but we no longer have this buffer.
These decisions become even more difficult at 3.9%, particularly as we negotiate contracts with four of
five bargaining units.
Impact of Current 3.9% Allocation
A 3.9% increase leaves us approximately $800,000 short of our 4.6% request. We will need to do the
following to balance the budget at this level:
1. Circuit Breaker Depletion: We will draw down our Circuit Breaker reserve from 87% to
approximately 50%—significantly reducing our safety net for special education costs.
2. Significant Staffing Reductions
a. 42 FTE reductions already incorporated (based on enrollment and IEP analysis)
b. 20-30 additional FTE reductions to be identified this spring
c. Total projected reductions: 62-72 FTEs
This follows last year's reduction of 26+ FTEs, meaning we will have reduced staffing by approximately
60-70 FTEs over two years while maintaining the same level of student services and implementing new
state mandates.
In Closing
We want to be transparent: even at our original 4.6% request, significant reductions are necessary.
However, the challenge we face is compounded by years of modest increases for the
schools—consistently below 4%—while costs, enrollment complexities, and state mandates continue to
rise.
We know the path forward requires difficult choices. We are committed to exhausting every avenue to
avoid an override, but we worry about compromising the quality education that defines Lexington and
that our families expect. This means we need to make strategic decisions about resource allocation now.
We urge you to consider applying the full $1.5M health insurance savings using the revenue allocation
model (74% schools and 26% municipal), in addition to the free cash already committed at Budget
Summits II/III.
This approach honors the agreement already made and enables us to apply unanticipated savings where
they are most needed for both schools and the municipal side. It also provides added stability for our
3
schools during four simultaneous contract negotiations and the implementation of state-mandated
curricula.
When budgets are tight, every little bit helps. The alternative—using these savings to replace free
cash—leaves us further from sustainability and closer to the difficult conversations about overrides that
we all hope to avoid. We recognize the complexity of these decisions and the competing priorities across
Town departments. Our ask is grounded in fiscal responsibility, transparency, and the urgent reality of
maintaining educational excellence with diminishing resources.
Thank you for your consideration and continued partnership in support of our students and staff.
Sincerely,
Julie Hackett, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools
4
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
LEXINGTON SELECT BOARD MEETING
AGENDA ITEM TITLE:
Discussion: Select Board Report to 2026 Annual Town Meeting
PRESENTER:
Board Discussion
ITEM
NUMBER:
I.4
SUMMARY:
Category: Brainstorming
The Select Board is being asked to discuss the preparation of a Select Board Report for the 2026 Annual
Town Meeting (ATM). This discussion will focus on identifying proposed topic areas for inclusion in the
report and assigning Board members as scribes for each section.
For reference, the meeting packet includes a copy of the Select Board’s Report to the 2025 Annual Town
Meeting, as well as the Select Board’s Report which was included in the FY2025 Annual Town Report.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
FOLLOW-UP:
DATE AND APPROXIMATE TIME ON AGENDA:
2/2/2026 7:50pm
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
Select Board Report to 2025 Annual Town Meeting Backup Material
FY2025 Select Board Report - Annual Town Reprt Backup Material
SELECT BOARD
TOWN OF LEXINGTON
SELECT BOARD REPORT TO THE
2025 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
MARCH 24, 2025
Select Board:
Douglas M. Lucente, Chair; Jill I. Hai, Vice-Chair; Joseph N. Pato;
Mark D. Sandeen Vineeta Kumar;
Kim Katzenback, Executive Clerk
Table of Contents
Message from the Select Board Page 1
Town Manager Transition Page 3
Lexington High School Project Page 3
Affordable Housing Initiatives Page 4
Economic Development and Community Vitality Page 6
2025: The 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Lexington Page 8
1
March 2025
Message from the Select Board
As we present this report to the Annual Town Meeting of 2025, we reflect on a year marked by
meaningful progress and investment in Lexington’s infrastructure, community, and
sustainability initiatives. This report includes detailed sections on the Lexington High School
Project, the Town Manager transition, Affordable Housing Initiatives, and Economic
Development and Community Vitality.
Key Updates:
Infrastructure: Significant infrastructure improvements remained a key priority
throughout the past year. Notably, the Hartwell Avenue and Bedford Street Complete
Streets Reconstruction Project advanced considerably, incorporating enhancements
focused on safety, mobility, and accessibility, such as raised medians, sidewalks, and
shared-use paths. Continued community dialogue ensured attention to pedestrian and
cyclist safety concerns for this project anticipated to be on the State’s Transportation
Improvement Plan in the 2030s. The Board also prioritized sidewalk improvements in the
next several years, especially on Burlington Street and North Street, recognizing their
critical role in pedestrian safety and connectivity. Recent major zoning changes related to
MBTA Zoning have prompted additional municipal planning efforts to meet increased
infrastructure demands across water, sewer, public safety, and transportation services.
Further investments in sidewalk expansions, town-wide traffic signal upgrades, public
parking lot enhancements, and intersection improvements—particularly at the Adams
Street intersections with East and Hancock Streets—underscore our ongoing
commitment to enhancing town-wide safety and accessibility.
ARPA: The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds have now been fully allocated,
marking the completion of strategic investments designed to directly benefit the
community. Key initiatives included expanding free public Wi-Fi in the Town Center,
Center Fields, and Lincoln Field; launching the implementation of SeeClickFix to enhance
communication between residents and town departments, with ongoing development
and improvements; installing a seasonal event tent to support community events;
funding a two-year mental health clinician position; and providing ongoing Diversity,
Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training initiatives. Throughout the allocation process, the
Board maintained a careful and flexible approach, ensuring compliance with federal
guidelines and reserving funds for impactful projects. Notably, consideration of an
electric or hybrid trolley acquisition was deferred due to cost and timing constraints.
2
Climate Leadership: The Select Board reviewed and approved updates to the Fleet
Electrification Roadmap and Policy, aligning Lexington’s vehicle acquisition goals with
the Massachusetts Climate Leaders Program. Zero waste initiatives, informed by a Tufts
University survey, focused discussions on expanding curbside composting, automated
waste collection, enhanced recycling, and continued community conversations on the
idea of a phased Pay-As-You-Throw program. The Board also considered a phased
Single-Use Plastic Bottle Phase-Out Policy, initially targeting municipal departments.
Further discussions included solar assessments for municipal parking lots and potential
future funding of a Sustainability Coordinator to leverage grant opportunities.
We would like to take a moment to warmly welcome our new Town Manager, Steve Bartha,
whose leadership and fresh perspective will undoubtedly help shape Lexington's continued
growth and prosperity. We also extend a heartfelt welcome to our newest Select Board member,
Vineeta Kumar, who joined us in March 2025. We look forward to her valuable contributions.
We also express our sincere gratitude to Suzie Barry, whose dedicated service and thoughtful
leadership on the Select Board concluded in March 2025. Her contributions have significantly
benefited our community, and we thank her for her years of commitment.
Should you have any questions or comments regarding this report, the Board encourages you to
get in touch with any member of the Board. Select Board meetings are generally held Monday
evenings at 6:30pm in the Select Board meeting room of the Town Office building, and via
Zoom. Board members’ office hours as well as the Select Board meeting packets are posted at
https://www.lexingtonma.gov/755/Select-Board. We can be reached via email (below) or by
calling the Select Board Office (781-698-4580) to schedule a phone conversation or meeting.
● Doug Lucente, Chair: dlucente@lexingtonma.gov
● Joe Pato: jpato@lexingtonma.gov
● Jill Hai, Vice Chair: jhai@lexingtonma.gov
● Mark Sandeen: msandeen@lexingtonma.gov
● Vineeta Kumar: vkumar@lexingtonma.gov
Respectfully submitted,
Lexington Select Board
Douglas M. Lucente, Chair
Joseph N. Pato
Jill I. Hai, Vice Chair
Mark D. Sandeen
Vineeta Kumar
3
Town Manager Transition
On March 21, 2024, Town Manager Jim Malloy announced his intention to retire at the end of his
then current contract, September 30, 2024. The Select Board is grateful to Mr. Malloy for his years
of service and stewardship.
In April, the Select Board issued a Request for Quotations (RFQ) for an Executive Search firm to
run the recruitment for the next town manager. The Board received four responses to their RFQ
and interviewed three firms, eventually selecting GovHR as the Executive Recruiting Firm to lead
the search.
The Board also created a charge for a Town Manager Search Screening Committee (TMSSC),
seeking a diverse group of residents to assist the Search firm in screening applicants. The TMSSC
was to be comprised of two Select Board members (SB), a Planning Board (PB)member, a
representative of the business community and five at large residents, to be chosen to represent “a
diversity of lived experience, relevant expertise and community involvement”, as well as liaisons
from each of the two finance committees.
The members of the TMSSC were: Sarah Bothwell Allen, Bob Creech (PB), Jill Hai (SB), Heather
Hartshorn (Business Community), Vineeta Kumar, Charles Lamb (CEC liaison), Robert
Mandeville, Sean Osborne (AC liaison), Janet Perry, Mark Sandeen (SB), and Helen Yang
The Select Board appointed Kelly Axtell as Acting Town Manager. Ms. Axtell served in that role
from October 1st through November 3, 2024.
Between May and August, the TMSSC created criteria, interview and essay questions, reviewed
two dozen applications and selected 11 candidates for further review. Second round submission
materials, including essay responses to TMSSC questions and work product examples were
reviewed and the committee held a full day of interviews with six semi-final candidates in
August. The committee recommended three applicants to the Select Board for final interviews.
The Select Board interviewed the three recommended candidates and on September 4, 2024, voted
to engage Steve Bartha, then Town Manager of Danvers, as Lexington’s next Town Manager. Mr.
Bartha began work in Lexington November 4, 2024. Since that date, Mr. Bartha has been meeting
with departments, individual staff, committees, and resident groups as he continues to integrate
into the community.
Lexington High School Project
The Lexington High School project is likely to be the most ambitious and expensive project
undertaken by the Town of Lexington. Plans for this project have been brewing for years leading
to the 2017 LHS Visioning process, the 2019 LPS Strategic Plan and the creation of the Master
Planning Advisory Committee during the 2018-2019 year. Beginning in 2019, Lexington
submitted Statement of Interest (SOI) applications each year to the Massachusetts School Building
Authority (MSBA) to evaluate LHS for insufficient educational capacity and system upgrades. In
2022 Lexington was invited into the MSBA Eligibility Period beginning the current process for
the project.
In November, 2024, the Lexington High School Building Committee (SBC) selected the Bloom
option after lengthy consideration of a wide range of alternatives. Bloom was deemed the
4
superior option due to several key advantages over other options which also met the minimum
requirements for satisfying the educational program and safety needs. These advantages include
cost-effectiveness, construction efficiency, and minimized disruption for students and
community users.
On February 26, 2025, the MSBA Board of Directors approved the Town of Lexington’s Preferred
Schematic Report submission. With this approval, the Lexington High School Building project
has successfully progressed into Module 4: Schematic Design phase of the MSBA process. The
proposed Bloom project includes a new building adjacent to the current LHS facility while
maintaining the existing field house with an addition and renovation.
During the schematic design phase, the project design team will refine the Bloom concept and
create a robust schematic design from which the MSBA will generate a scope, budget, schedule,
and MSBA financial grant award. This team is composed of Dore and Whittier, Owner’s Project
Manager; SMMA, Architects; and Turner Construction, Construction Manager at Risk. The team
has been guided by the SBC to produce a responsible design that avoids unnecessary expense.
The team is working with key stakeholders to adjust the Bloom concept to address community
concerns regarding building massing, site traffic, and facility use.
We anticipate that the project will be presented for approval to the MSBA during the summer of
2025 and will then come for community approval through a Special Town Meeting in the fall of
2025 followed by a debt exclusion vote at the end of the year. At the special town meeting we also
expect to seek authorization for an Article 97 land swap to be submitted to the state legislature.
This land swap would relocate some recreation fields to the footprint of the existing LHS and
parking areas while building the new structure on the former field locations. Occupancy in the
new or renovated facility is expected at the end of 2029.
Detailed information about the project is publicly available at:
https://lhsproject.lexingtonma.org
Affordable Housing Initiatives
One of the Select Board’s highest priority goals is to enhance community vibrancy by increasing
the diversity of housing stock in size, accessibility, and price including increasing the availability
of affordable housing.
Lexington has a serious affordable housing crisis that has been decades in the making. Housing
prices are rising much faster than household incomes. The average sale price of a Lexington home
rose to over $1.9 million in 2024, with the average price of a new construction home reaching $3
million. The Massachusetts Municipal Association data also shows that Lexington’s median gross
rents are the highest of any municipality in the Commonwealth. 24% of Lexington homeowners
and 44% of Lexington renters are housing cost burdened, spending at least 30% to 50% of their
income on housing.
Currently only 6% of Lexington’s housing stock is truly affordable, while 21% of Lexington
households qualify as low-income. The result is that the demand for affordable housing is quite
high, with 10 to 20 applicants per each newly available affordable home. That translates into
families waiting between 5 and 8 years to secure affordable housing in Lexington.
5
Between 2011 and June of 2023, Lexington had a net gain of zero affordable housing units on the
Subsidized Housing Inventory or SHI. Since that time Lexington has had a net gain of 11 truly
affordable units on the SHI, largely due to the creation of 21 units of affordable housing as part
of the Waterstone/Bridges project approved by 2018 Special Town Meeting.
The Select Board and Town Meeting have taken several recent actions to increase the availability
of affordable housing in Lexington. Special Town Meeting 2022-3 approved the creation of the
Affordable Housing Trust and the reorganization of LexHAB as an independent 501(c)3
organization.
The legislature approved the reorganization of LexHAB in September of 2024, which will allow
the reorganized LexHAB to access more diverse sources of funding, including private donations,
federal and state funding, in addition to local appropriations. The reorganization also enables
faster, more efficient, and lower cost housing production. Soon after the reorganization, LexHAB
received a donation of a property that LexHAB will convert to an affordable home for Lexington
residents in perpetuity.
The Affordable Housing Trust was formed to preserve and create affordable housing, with a
structure that provides the ability to respond to opportunities and funding requests from
Lexington housing partners like LexHAB and the Lexington Housing Authority in real time.
The Affordable Housing Trust funded two LexHAB property purchases in its first year of
operation, creating affordable housing for three families in response to highly time sensitive
opportunities.
2024 Annual Town Meeting overwhelmingly approved Article 33 authorizing the Select Board
and the Affordable Housing Trust to create 40 units of 100% truly affordable housing at an
average of 60% of Area Median Income on Town owned property located near Lowell and North
Street. The Town received 7 proposals and has signed a land disposition agreement with the
winning team. The developer has begun the community engagement and due diligence process
defined in the RFP.
The proposed design significantly exceeds the RFP requirements in many ways, including
providing housing that is well integrated with the neighborhood, designed to feel like 8
individual buildings, with a community meeting area and a common space walking area, dark
sky compliant lighting, thoughtfully designed landscaping that preserves as many existing native
trees as possible, supplemented with new native plants to enhance ecological systems, and almost
an acre of protected woodland area. Each home will have ample natural daylight, outdoor space,
in unit laundry, elevator accessibility, universally accessible design, communal storage space,
bike storage, and covered parking.
They will be all-electric, solar powered homes, built to Passive House standards. The economics
of building to these standards are excellent for both the residents and the developer.
The residents will live in a home with incredibly healthy indoor air quality, that is extremely
quiet, provides amazing thermal comfort, and exceptional resilience. Massachusetts Dept of
Energy Resources studies show that multi-family buildings built to Passive House standards have
such excellent thermal resilience that they can go a week without electric power on the coldest
week of the year, with indoor temperatures dropping only 6 or 7° F. No backup power
needed. The selected developer has built several affordable housing Passive House buildings and
has now made it their design standard.
6
That excellent thermal performance also lowers the cost of HVAC equipment, as the heating loads
for a Passive House building are roughly an order of magnitude lower than a standard building
code building. Because those heating and cooling loads are so low, a central heating and cooling
system for all of the units will be entirely powered by solar panels on the roof. That means the
residents will have zero cost for heating or cooling their homes.
And because that power is provided entirely by the sun, it will be insulated from the dramatic
energy price spikes we've seen over the last few years. This is especially important because low-
income households in the Boston area have the highest median energy burden in the country,
spending 14% of their income on energy.
Building affordable housing to Passive House standards is among the best ways the Town can
address both the housing cost burden and the energy cost burden of its low-income residents.
Perhaps most importantly the homes built on Lowell & North Street will be incredibly healthy,
comfortable, and resilient homes for the residents.
All affordable housing initiatives require significant sources of funding. The Community
Preservation Committee currently provides the majority of affordable housing funds to LexHAB
and is the only significant source of funding for the Affordable Housing Trust. The anticipated
requests from the Lexington Housing Authority, LexHAB, and the Affordable Housing Trust for
community housing initiatives are likely to exceed the amount of available Community
Preservation Act funds in the coming years.
Lexington 2021 Annual Town Meeting approved Article 36 to submit a home rule petition
requesting legislative authority to establish a surcharge on specific commercial development
activities for the purpose of funding affordable housing. The legislature recently approved that
home rule petition by passing H.2740 “An Act to establish a surcharge on specific commercial
development activities for the purpose of funding the creation of community housing.” The
Governor signed the bill on January 8, 2025.
The Select Board is now required to set a linkage fee rate within a year. The Select Board
authorized Town staff to commission a study funded under Article 36, to assess commercial
development and housing inventory trends before recommending an appropriate range of
linkage fee rates. Given that commercial development trends have slowed considerably since
2021, expectations for this source of funds are fairly modest. Any funds generated from the
linkage fee would be transferred to the Affordable Housing Trust.
Another potential source of funding was not approved by the legislature. Lexington 2020 Special
Town Meeting approved Article 6 to submit a home rule petition requesting legislative authority
to establish a surcharge on residential development for the purpose of funding affordable
housing. Unfortunately, the legislature took no action on that home rule petition during this or
the previous legislative session. For that reason, that Article 6 home rule petition failed and can
only be reconsidered by the legislature after another vote of Lexington Town Meeting.
Economic Development and Community Vitality Initiatives
In 2024-25 the Select Board continued to support initiatives which stimulate economic
development and commercial expansion within the town, including revitalizing the downtown.
Among the key strategies has been the formation of strong partnerships with local business
7
associations and individual businesses including through the Select Board’s advisory committees,
the Economic Development Advisory Committee and the Center Committee. Additionally, the
Select Board Chair and Vice Chair continue to participate in the Quarterly Small Business
Roundtable discussions organized by the Economic Development Department.
These are some highlights from the Economic Development Department’s efforts in 2024-25.
Lex 250 and Tourism: The Visitors Center has seen 60,000 visitors come through our doors
since July 2024, compared to 51,000 travelers in the year prior. The increase in foot traffic
stems from Lex250th promotion, advertising and marketing efforts with National
Geographic, BBC, WCVB, and NYT which have reached at least 15 million people around
the world to promote the 250th Celebrations in Lexington. Furthermore,
TourLexington.us, Lexington’s main tourism website, which was launched in January
2024, has hit over 100,000 users and over 300,000 page views. These efforts have led to
increases in foot traffic, merchandise revenue and a 56% increase in revenue through
online tour booking channels. The Lexington Visitors Center has received new
merchandise to accommodate the influx of tourists who will come for Patriots’ Day
Weekend.
Local Economic Policy Enhancements: 2024 ATM passed Article 39 Home Rule Petition to
Adjust the Number of On-Premise Wine and Malt Alcohol Licenses. State Representative
Michelle Ciccolo brought filed House Bill HD.3893 requesting our home rule petition
which was referred to the Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional
Licensure on 3/13/2025. At their June 24, 2024 meeting the Select Board voted for a
revised Alcohol Beverage License Regulations updated to include the new zoning. This
2024 policy expands the scope to include event spaces and craft beverage establishments,
not just restaurants, for eligibility for a License to serve alcoholic beverages. This includes
locations such as Pinot’s Palette, The Venue, Galaray House, and Craft Foods who could
apply for a liquor license to serve liquor as part of their operations.
Wayfinding Signs: In East Lexington, wayfinding signs have been installed at Bow Street
to direct travelers to restaurants, coffee shops, and businesses. People who may not have
known these options exist can now go enjoy a cup of coffee, buy a bagel, or find a new
place to get their haircut. In addition to East Lexington, new signage is coming to
Lexington Center. The Economic Development Department is bringing a large kiosk at
the Grain Mill Alley Bike Node next to the solar bench to direct visitors and travelers to
Lexington’s historic amenities, businesses, and restaurants. Similar to East Lexington,
these signs will appear along the Minuteman Bikeway. In addition to this initiative, work
is being done in Lexington Center and in East Lexington to connect the Minuteman
Bikeway to our business community. In East Lexington, Wayfinding Signs
Art Installations and Vibrancy efforts: Later this year, travelers on the bikeway may see new
art installations at 55 Massachusetts Avenue, 131 Massachusetts Avenue, and the shops
at 135-145 Massachusetts Avenue. This work was funded through the American Rescue
Plan Act and is part of the Rapid Recovery Plan that began during the COVID-19
pandemic. Finally, the Economic Development Department is working with landscape
architects and the Department of Public Works to landscape that area to open up the
space and install new benches. In addition to these signs, the Economic Development
Department is also working on bringing murals to businesses along the bikeway.
8
Additionally, there is a collaborative effort from Lexington Economic Development, the
Lexington Center Committee, and the Lexington History Museum to bring art to
Lexington Depot.
Commercial Development: Lexington welcomed more than six small businesses including
new cafes in the Center and three large life sciences businesses in 2024. These cafés have
transformed Lexington Center into a breakfast destination for all. Major vacancies have
been filled including the former Starbucks which is now Revival Café, and the Bertucci’s
Pizza location which is now Tatte. Additionally, long-term vacancies in the center and
across town have seen increased interest. More cafes and restaurants are slated to open
their doors this summer and fall in Lexington Center. Lexington and Cambridge current
lab market vacancy rates are both close to 19%, while Burlington and Waltham have
higher vacancy rates of 29% and 22%, respectively.
Center Revitalization: On December 16, 2024 the Economic Development Advisory
Committee and Lexington Center Committee presented to the Select Board, a set of
recommendations based on Lexington Center: The Journey Forward. The recommendations
were the following:
1) Focus on ways to create more welcoming and inviting entryways from key access
points (parking lots, bike path, Visitors Center)
2) Convene a forum of relevant municipal bodies and committees to ensure alignment
around application of new bylaws
3) Evaluating options for supporting Lexington Center programming.
4) Prioritize decision(s) regarding use of town-owned land in Lexington Center.
The Select Board has made Center Revitalization a major goal to work on over the next two years.
2025: The 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Lexington
Preparations for Lexington’s landmark 250th Anniversary of the Battle have been extensive and
community-oriented, reflecting both historical reverence and inclusive celebration. Throughout the past
year, the Select Board has actively engaged in a range of discussions, projects, and events designed to
honor this momentous occasion thoughtfully and collaboratively.
Monument Project: Extensive deliberation occurred regarding the proposed 250th Anniversary
Monument at Belfry Hill Park. Community discussions provided valuable insights and raised
critical considerations about the monument's scale, symbolic design, ongoing maintenance, and
site suitability. Despite thorough evaluation and dialogue, the Historic Districts Commission
(HDC) ultimately denied the Certificate of Appropriateness, effectively concluding the project.
Inter Municipal Collaboration: Lexington continued strengthening historical and celebratory ties
with neighboring communities through an Inter Municipal Agreement (IMA) with Arlington,
Concord, and Lincoln, collectively allocating $200,000 towards collaborative planning and event
execution for the 250th celebration.
US Army Participation and Special Events: The Select Board received and considered a special
request from the US Army Military District of Washington DC, involving several prestigious
Army units, notably the Golden Knights Parachute Team, for participation in commemorative
activities on April 19, 2025. Recognizing the exceptional historical significance of the anniversary,
the Board granted a unique, one-time exemption to the Select Board’s Battle Green Regulation,
which typically prohibits parachuting onto the Battle Green. Careful consideration was given to
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balancing the historical gravity and ceremonial appropriateness of these events against
established town regulations and historical site protections.
Invitation to Dignitaries: The Select Board voted to approve the Semiquincentennial Commission
(Lex250)’s recommendation to extend invitations to local, state, federal and international
dignitaries to attend the 250th Anniversary celebrations. Board discussions surrounding this vote
were comprehensive, underscoring an important consideration: ensuring the dignitary presence
does not overshadow the celebration’s primary focus—the Lexington community and its
heritage. The Board emphasized thoughtful selection to maintain the event’s community-centric
spirit.
International Engagement – Antony, France: Recognizing Lexington’s global historical connections,
the Select Board strongly supported inviting our longstanding sister city, Antony, France, to
participate in the anniversary celebrations. This international collaboration underscores our
town’s historical significance, celebrating longstanding international relationships and fostering
meaningful cultural exchange.
As we approach the commemorative date, we acknowledge with gratitude the numerous volunteers,
community groups, historical organizations, town staff, and regional partners working diligently toward
a meaningful and memorable celebration. The Select Board remains committed to ensuring the 250th
Anniversary of the Battle of Lexington is commemorated in a manner that honors our history, celebrates
our vibrant community, and fosters connections both local and global.
SELECT BOARD
Five members, elected by the voters at-large to overlapping 3-year terms: Douglas M. Lucente, Chair, Jill I. Hai,
Vice-Chair, Joseph N. Pato, Suzanne E. Barry, and Mark D. Sandeen. The Board thanks Suzanne E. Barry for her
ten years of dedicated service to the Town and acknowledges her many contributions as she concluded her
tenure in March 2025. Voters re-elected Joseph N. Pato and elected Vineeta Kumar to the Board for her first
term at the annual town election in March 2025. At the Board's annual reorganization following the Town
Meeting in May 2025, Jill I. Hai was appointed Chair and Joseph N. Pato was appointed Vice-Chair, with their
terms beginning July 1, 2025.
Fiscal Year 2025 was a significant year for the Town of Lexington. It was a year in which we commemorated
our pivotal role in the founding of our nation while continuing to advance a forward-looking agenda of
strategic investment, community enhancement, and sound fiscal stewardship.
The Board adopted revisions to the Board and Committee Code of Conduct, reinforcing expectations for
civility and public participation. The Board also prioritized collaboration with neighboring municipalities and
regional partners, with the Board working alongside neighboring municipalities to address state-level
proposals on transportation funding and to respond to potential noise impacts from Hanscom Field
operations.
The Board advanced efforts to improve public amenities to ensure that Lexington’s shared spaces remain
accessible and welcoming to all. The Board engaged in public discussions on potential changes to rules
governing the historic Battle Green and ultimately decided to seek additional resident input before taking
action.
Throughout the year, the Select Board maintained its focus on disciplined, long-term fiscal planning. The Board
held collaborative Finance Summits with the School Committee, Appropriation Committee, and Capital
Expenditures Committee provided a forum for aligning budget priorities and ensuring the responsible
execution of capital projects.
As in prior years, the Board worked to balance near-term operational needs with long-term planning. Fiscal
discipline, environmental responsibility, and community vibrancy remained at the forefront. These priorities
continue to guide our goals of maintaining strong fiscal health, delivering major capital projects on schedule
and within budget, and advancing policies that foster a welcoming, inclusive, and sustainable community for
all.
Lexington High School Building Project
The Lexington High School Building Project represents one of the most ambitious and significant investments in
the Town’s history. Planning for this project has been ongoing for years leading to the 2017 LHS Visioning
process, the 2019 LPS Strategic Plan and the creation of the Master Planning Advisory Committee during the
2018-2019 year. In 2022 Lexington was invited into the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA)
program beginning the current process for the project. As required by the MSBA, The School Building Committee
(SBC) was appointed to oversee and facilitate the project. At the end of FY2025 this project neared completion
of the Module 4 of the MSBA process – Schematic Design for the new construction option known as “Bloom”.
Progress and Milestones:
• Fall 2024
o Completion of Module 3: Feasibility Study – The School Building Committee evaluated five
remaining design options for a design and selected Bloom, new construction to be built on the
playing fields adjacent to the existing school building and to renovate and expand the existing
field house. The fields on which the new structure will be built will be rebuilt where the current
school and parking lots are located preserving and improving the facilities.
o A citizen’s petition at the fall Special Town Meeting (Article 8) sought to delay the MSBA process
and request an alternative two-phase approach. The article failed by a vote of 11 in favor, 157
opposed, and 8 abstaining.
• Winter 2024/5
o MSBA approved Lexington’s Preliminary Design Program and a Preferred Schematic Report
advancing our project to Module 4 – Schematic Design.
• Spring 2025
o Schematic designs submitted to third-party cost estimators.
Looking forward, the SBC expects to submit the schematic design to the MSBA in August 2025 for approval and
advancement to a project funding agreement by the fall.
Financial Planning:
2024 Annual Town Meeting appropriated $10M for design funds for the project via article 26. The next major
funding action by Town Meeting is expected to occur at a Special Town Meeting in November of 2025 followed
by a town-wide debt exclusion vote in December.
The estimated total project cost as submitted in the fall of 2024 is $662 million. This cost will be offset by
anticipated funding from the MSBA estimated at over $100 million, as well as state and federal clean energy
incentives and rebates. The anticipated Town share is approximately $550 million to be funded by existing
capital reserves and annual debt service both within and excluded from the limits of Proposition 2½.
Estimated costs for the project are being refined as the design process progresses. In June of 2025 preliminary
schematic designs were submitted to third-party cost estimators and total projected costs remain below $662
million. The SBC remains committed to controlling costs and seeking savings where possible.
Detailed information about the project is publicly available at: https://lhsproject.lexingtonma.org The current
expected timeline for the LHS Project is illustrated below. Occupancy in the new facility is expected for the
2029/2030 academic year with removal of the old buildings and construction of the new fields occurring over
the following year.
Town Manager Transition
In March 2024, Town Manager Jim Malloy announced that he would retire at the conclusion of his contract on
September 30, 2024.
The Select Board issued a Request for Quotations (RFQ) for an Executive Search firm to run the recruitment for
the next town manager, eventually selecting GovHR as the Executive Recruiting Firm to lead the search.
The Board also created a Town Manager Search Screening Committee (TMSSC), comprising a diverse group of
residents to assist the Search firm in screening applicants. The committee included two Select Board (SB)
members, a Planning Board (PB) member, a representative of the business community and five at large
residents, as well as liaisons from each of the two finance committees.
The members of the TMSSC were: Sarah Bothwell Allen, Bob Creech (PB), Jill Hai (SB), Heather Hartshorn
(Business Community), Vineeta Kumar, Charles Lamb (CEC liaison), Robert Mandeville, Sean Osborne (AC
liaison), Janet Perry, Mark Sandeen (SB) and Helen Yang.
The Select Board appointed Kelly Axtell as Acting Town Manager from October 1st through November 3, 2024.
On September 4, 2024, the Select Board voted to appoint Steve Bartha, then serving as Town Manager of
Danvers, as Lexington’s next Town Manager. He began his tenure on November 4, 2024. Since his arrival mid-
year, Mr. Bartha has helped complete the FY26 budget, advanced planning for the Lexington250 celebrations,
supported the hiring of key staff, union contract negotiations, and worked closely with departments, employees,
unions, committees, and community groups as he integrates into the Town’s operations.
250th Anniversary of the Battle of Lexington
On April 19, 1775, the Lexington Battle Green was the site of the opening chapter of the American Revolution.
As British Regulars advanced toward Concord, local militia stood in their path. In the brief exchange that
followed, eight Lexington residents were killed, the first to give their lives in the cause of American
independence.
In FY2025, the Town joined with residents, partners, and visitors from across the country and the world to
observe the 250th anniversary of this historic day. Planning for the commemoration spanned years, involving
Town departments, the Lex250 Commission, the Town Celebrations Committee, community organizations, and
volunteers. The anniversary offered an opportunity to remember the events of 1775 and to share a broader
story that reflects the contributions of people who were free, indentured, and enslaved to the cause of the
Revolution.
The week of Patriots’ Day formed the centerpiece of the year, beginning with a Thursday evening Awards
Ceremony recognizing individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to the town. On
Saturday, April 19, the early morning Battle of Lexington reenactment drew large crowds, followed by the
rededication of the Battle Green and a U.S. Army program featuring the Golden Knights Parachute Team. That
afternoon, the Patriots’ Day Parade featured over 125 marching units, including military bands, fife and drum
corps, and many Lexington civic and cultural organizations.
Other weekend highlights included the Lex250 Patriotic Picnic in Hastings Park, with a performance by the
Boston Symphony Orchestra, and a lecture and film screening by Ken Burns offering historical perspective on
the Revolution. The year also welcomed a delegation from Lexington’s sister city, Antony, France, underscoring
the historic ties between our communities and the international resonance of the ideals born here.
Legacy projects included the opening of the Lexington History Museums’ fourth museum in the renovated
Lexington Depot, a new animated Paul Revere’s Ride presentation at the Visitors Center, and public history
installations such as the “Witness to 1775 Houses” project and the “Riding Through History” horse statues.
The Select Board extends sincere thanks to the Lexington Semiquincentennial Commission, the Town
Celebrations Committee, and Town staff whose dedication and professionalism made this year’s
commemorations possible. Their planning, coordination, and tireless work, alongside hundreds of community
volunteers, ensured the 250th anniversary was meaningful, inclusive, and worthy of the events it honored.
Housing Initiatives and Updates
Expanding the diversity of Lexington’s housing stock remains one of the Board’s highest priorities. Annual Town
Meeting 2024 authorized the Select Board to seek proposals to develop 100% affordable housing on the Town
owned property known as Parcel 68-44 located near the intersection of Lowell Street and North Street. The
Select Board issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to build 100% affordable housing on this parcel and received
seven proposals from qualified development teams. The Town signed a land disposition agreement with the
selected developer to build 40 units of truly affordable housing at an average of 60% Area Median Income or
below. The developer has presented the proposed site design and completed the community engagement
process defined in the RFP.
The proposed design significantly exceeds the RFP requirements in many ways, including providing housing that
is well integrated with the neighborhood, with a community meeting area, a common space walking area,
thoughtfully designed landscaping, and almost an acre of protected woodland area. These homes will be all-
electric, solar-powered, and built to Passive House standards. The Select Board has sent a letter to the Executive
Office of Housing and Livable Communities in support of the developer’s Project Eligibility Letter application to
pursue a Comprehensive Permit under the MGL Chapter 40B process. The Comprehensive Permit process is
expected to start in the fall of 2025.
Home Rule Petitions: Lexington 2020 Special Town Meeting approved Article 6 to submit a home rule petition
requesting legislative authority to establish a surcharge on residential development for the purpose of funding
affordable housing. The legislature took no action on that home rule petition during this or the previous
legislative session. For that reason, that Article 6 home rule petition failed and can only be reconsidered by the
legislature after another vote of Lexington Town Meeting.
Lexington 2021 Annual Town Meeting approved Article 36 to submit a home rule petition requesting legislative
authority to establish a surcharge on specific commercial development activities for the purpose of funding
affordable housing. The legislature approved that home rule petition by passing H.2740 “An Act to establish a
surcharge on specific commercial development activities for the purpose of funding the creation of community
housing.” The Governor signed the bill on January 8, 2025.
The Select Board authorized Town staff to commission a study funded under Article 36, to assess commercial
development and housing inventory trends before recommending an appropriate range of linkage fee rates.
Lexington Housing Assistance Board (LexHAB): In September 2024, the Massachusetts State Legislature
approved the Select Board’s Home Rule Petition to amend LexHAB’s enabling legislation and charter, to allow
LexHAB to become an independent non-profit entity. As a 501(c)(3) organization, LexHAB will now be able to
use a combination of state, federal, and private funding sources to acquire or develop affordable housing. This
will enhance LexHAB’s ability to create affordable housing more efficiently and cost effectively. Soon after the
reorganization, LexHAB received a donation of a property that LexHAB will convert to an affordable home for
Lexington residents in perpetuity.
The Lexington Affordable Housing Trust also provided a $1.1 million grant to LexHAB for the purchase of a single-
family home, with the condition of creating two affordable units for residents at or below 60% of Area Median
Income.
Zoning Initiatives: Annual Town Meeting 2023 created several MBTA village overlay districts with inclusionary
housing requirements. The Planning Board has approved nine multi-family housing projects that are proposed
to produce 1,086 units of multi-family housing, including 160 units of inclusionary housing for residents at or
below the 80% Area Median Income.
Annual Town Meeting 2023 also approved Special Residential Development (SRD) zoning. Construction has
started on the first SRD project, which will create 10 units of housing, including one unit of inclusionary housing.
Economic Development and Community Vitality
During fiscal year 2025, the Select Board maintained its commitment to fostering economic growth and
commercial development within the town, with a particular focus on revitalizing the downtown area. Strong
partnerships with local business associations, individual businesses, and advisory committees—such as the
Economic Development Advisory Committee and the Center Committee—played a central role. The Select
Board’s liaisons also participated in Quarterly Roundtable discussions hosted by the Economic Development
Department.
These are some highlights from fiscal year 2025.
Lex250 and Tourism: From July 2024 through June 2025, the Visitors Center welcomed 112,000 guests—an
impressive increase from the 87,000 visitors in the prior fiscal year. This growth was driven by the successful
Lex250 celebration, which attracted tens of thousands to commemorate the historical battle of Lexington.
Collaborations with organizations such as National Geographic, BBC, WCVB, and NYT promoted the 250th
anniversary, reaching tens of millions globally. The Tour Lexington.us website, launched in January 2024,
surpassed 120,000 users and recorded over 350,000 page views. These outreach efforts led to a 28% rise in foot
traffic, a 53% increase in merchandise revenue, and an 85% surge in online tour booking revenue compared to
FY24. The Visitors Center worked closely with the Lex250 commission to offer new branded merchandise. The
Lexington Visitors Center also expanded its Step-On Guided Charter Tour program through networking and
connecting with new tour operators at events such as the American Bus Association Conference, International
Pow Wow Conference, and Discover New England Summit. Bookings nearly doubled from 54 in FY24 to 102 in
FY25. Lexington was recognized as a top destination by the American Bus Association, receiving the “Best of the
Best” award.
Local Economic Policy Enhancements: During 2024 Annual Town Meeting, Town Meeting passed several policy
measures designed to ease permitting requirements, modernize language, and allow for new businesses to
thrive in Lexington.
ATM 2024, the Town of Lexington passed Article 49 which changed the Zoning bylaw to support new uses from
Breweries and Wineries. This was accomplished by adding new definitions for craft beverage establishments
and permitting additional uses to all commercial districts in Lexington. By modernizing definitions for eating and
drinking establishments, more businesses are able to come into Town. With the passage of Article 47, Town
Meeting amended the Zoning bylaw to allow businesses to have an additional sign on their structure,
streamlined permitting process for signage, and removed restrictions on event signage.
On June 24, 2024, the Select Board updated their Alcohol Beverage License Regulations, broadening eligibility
to include event spaces and craft beverage establishments alongside traditional restaurants. Locations such as
Pinot’s Palette, The Venue, Galaray House, and local breweries are now eligible to serve alcohol as part of their
operations with an approved wine & malt liquor license.
Town Meeting also passed Article 39, a Home Rule Petition to adjust the number of on-premise wine and malt
licenses. State Representative Michelle Ciccolo sponsored House Bill HD.3893, which was filed on February 25,
2025, and is awaiting further action.
East Lexington Revitalization: Since 2020, the revitalization of East Lexington’s business districts has been a
priority. Efforts in FY25 focused on connecting businesses to the Minuteman Bikeway via upgrades, landscaping,
and wayfinding signs—key recommendations from the 2021 Massachusetts Downtown Initiative Rapid
Recovery Plan. Funding from a Regional Economic Development Organization Grant enabled wayfinding sign
installation at Bow Street, to help travelers find their way to restaurants, coffee shops, and businesses.
Additional beautification projects, including new murals funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), were
implemented; artists Melissa Pandina and Gabriella Sepulveda created large-scale murals now displayed at
several Massachusetts Avenue locations - 55 Massachusetts Avenue (Berman’s Wine and Spirits), 131
Massachusetts Avenue (Busa Wine and Spirits), and 135-145 Massachusetts Avenue (Battle Road Bikes). These
three vibrant, large-scale murals illustrating pivotal moments from Lexington’s past brighten the Minutemen
Bikeway, and attract the attention of passersby. Ongoing efforts include landscaping and bench installation to
enhance the area’s appeal.
The Lexington Center Committee partnered with Lexington History Museums to commission a mural on the
Depot Building’s pillars, completed in August 2025.
These projects not only contribute towards revitalizing East Lexington but also set a framework for similar
initiatives elsewhere, like Lexington center.
Center Business District Revitalization: A charrette was organized in FY24, following which the Economic
Development Advisory Committee and Lexington Center Committee presented to the Select Board, a set of
recommendations based on Lexington Center: The Journey Forward. The first two recommendations are being
addressed as described in this report; the remaining two still need planning.
1) Focus on ways to create more welcoming and inviting entryways from key access points (parking lots,
bike path, Visitors Center)
2) Evaluating options for supporting Lexington Center programming
3) Convene a forum of relevant municipal bodies and committees to ensure alignment around application
of new bylaws – The Select Board has not initiated this yet but plans to in FY26
4) Prioritize decision(s) regarding use of town-owned land in Lexington Center.
Lexington welcomed several new businesses into the Center Business District over the past year, including new
cafes, establishing Lexington Center as a prime breakfast destination. Major vacancies in the center have been
filled, with Revival Café and Tatte. Additional changes include candy store Liberty Sweets which replaced Fancy
Flea, knitting shop Knit Tuck and Purl, and the buildout and opening of Steak House- Post 1917 at 27 Waltham
Street. Post 1917 replaced the former Bulpan restaurant, which closed in 2020. New ownership has taken over
1800 Massachusetts Avenue (former Stationary Signature Store) and renewed interest in renovating the space
into a more appealing area for businesses.
The Center Committee, EDAC, and the Tourism Committee have been working on the planning and
implementation of wayfinding signage at critical access points in FY26, including a solar-powered event calendar
kiosk in Grain Mill Alley.
Commercial Development: Despite ongoing challenges in the Life Science sector, Lexington achieved significant
milestones in commercial development. Braskem established a $20 million, 35,000-square-foot Renewable
Innovation Center on Maguire Road, which began operations in 2024. This new facility strengthens Braskem’s
work in biotechnology, catalysis, and process engineering. The company’s accomplishments were celebrated at
the 2025 MassEcon Impact Awards. In addition, commercial entities in Lexington pulled permits totaling over
$112.7 million for new construction projects, supported by key Town departments including Building,
Conservation, Fire, Planning, Sustainability, and Health. Notable developments included 17 Hartwell Avenue, 93
Bedford Street, and 32–36 Edgewood Road.
Community Vibrancy and Cultural Events: Lexington fostered a vibrant community spirit through a wide array
of cultural events last year, many of which received vital support from the Economic Development Office.
Working with the Cultural Council, the office distributed $15,000 in Cultural District Investment Grants to eight
local arts and cultural groups, enabling valuable programming for the Town. Major events included the Bikeway
Block Party, LexLux Illumination Night, the Lexington History Museum’s Reenactment of Paul Revere’s Ride, and
the Chamber of Commerce Concert Series, among others.
The Economic Development Office also leveraged ARPA funds, to support the Lexington Retailer Association’s
Discovery Day by reducing and waiving application fees for local businesses, thus boosting participation. Similar
funding aided LexLux Illumination Night, with resources allocated for projectors, tables, and a heating station.
Additional equipment such as tables, canopy tents, and other items were purchased, making them available for
use at future community and municipal events.
The Select Board remains committed to continuously improving economic and community vitality through
various programs- providing access to a diverse mix of businesses, develop and vitalize new economic hubs,
increasing commercial revenue and utilization of town resources to create community vibrancy. Through
multifaceted initiatives, Lexington is striving for a future that is economically robust, inclusive and sustainable.
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
As we approach the conclusion of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding period, we are pleased to
present an update on the allocation and utilization of ARPA funds in our community.
The Town of Lexington was allocated a total of $9,903,381 in ARPA funds, aimed at addressing the impacts of
the COVID-19 pandemic and fostering recovery across critical sectors. It was important for the Select Board to
deploy these resources in a manner that maximizes benefits for our community, adhering to the guiding
principles of transparency, equity, and strategic impact.
As of June 30, 2025, the Select Board has approved spending the full allocation of $9,903,381. Of that amount
$8,271,202 has been spent, and the remaining $1,632,179 is encumbered and under contract.
Funds have been allocated to the following broad areas, amounting to 78 individual projects of varying sizes,
many of which are complete and others in-progress.
• Economic Stimulus & Resiliency: The largest portion, approximately 36% of the funds or $3,572,672 was
earmarked to support our local economy, including bolstering the cultural sector, aiding small
businesses, enhancing community events, updating digital platforms, improving public spaces, Center
access, and fostering bikeway mobility and engagement.
• Public Health, Safety and Pandemic Response: With 24% of the funding or $2,382,104, this area focused
on bolstering the town's health department, including testing and vaccination programs, public safety
equipment, mental health measures and training in response to the pandemic.
• Housing: 15% of the funds or $1,502,735 were allocated to address housing needs, ensuring support for
those affected by the pandemic in securing stable housing.
• General Government Services: 23% of the funds or $2,245,871 have been utilized for general services
such as enhancing the Food Waste Program, investment in hybrid technology and IT improvements,
election equipment, acquiring a new electric vehicle for the Health Department, formulating an ADA
Town Building Self Evaluation and improving Recreation facilities.
• Food Insecurity: A smaller, yet crucial 2% of the funds or $200,000 addressed food insecurity, ensuring
that residents affected by the pandemic have access to necessary resources.
Some of the significant projects that have been completed in fiscal year 2025 are Water Wagon purchase for
community events, MBTA Zoning Study, installation of hybrid tech in the library living room, purchase of new
radios and hoses for the Fire Department, decarbonization of affordable housing, Wi-Fi installation in the Town
Center, and the full execution of the food insecurity program.
Some of the projects that are in-progress and will complete soon are the Lead and Copper water system
improvements, Recreation outdoor shelters and bottle fillers, the ADA building study, hybrid meeting
technology in Town buildings, East Lexington bikeway landscaping, store front and store back improvement
projects and Grain Mill Alley wayfinding signs. In addition, ARPA will continue to support the food waste
composting program and mental health services through the end of the ARPA program in December 2026.
The Board has voted that any remaining or surplus funds after completion of all earmarked projects will be
applied towards expanding the Town’s food waste collection program.
Project/Initiative Count Allocated Spent till date Encumbered
Economic Stimulus &
Resiliency 18 36% $2,782,386.02 $790,286.08
Public Health & Safety 29 24% $2,056,029.85 $326,073.90
Housing 6 15% $1,502,734.65
General Government
Services 21 16% $1,175,930.55 $356,092.13
Hybrid Tech Improvements 3 7% $554,121.31 $159,726.51
Food Insecurity 1 2% $200,000.00
Total 78 100% $8,271,202.38 $1,632,178.62
The Participatory Budgeting (PB) process implemented in the previous year, which actively engaged our
residents in the decision-making process, led to identification of impactful community projects. Given the
stipulation for all ARPA funds to be committed by December 31, 2024, the PB process has been discontinued.
While not all suggestions could be implemented, we extend our gratitude to all residents who participated in
this process, contributing valuable insights and demonstrating the strength of our community's collective
engagement.
In this final phase of ARPA fund utilization, the Select Board is dedicated to successfully completing all projects
funded by ARPA.
Update on Municipal Building & Infrastructure Projects
The Board continues to address the issues of maintaining and improving our municipal and school building
infrastructure. The following section includes the current status of Lexington’s building projects. The Lexington
High School building project is covered in the Lexington High School section of this report.
Lexington Police Station
The Lexington Police Department moved into the new Police Station facility in June 2024. The Police Station
building was constructed in compliance with the Town’s Integrated Building Design and Construction Policy and
is solar ready in furtherance of the Town’s net zero renewable energy policy goals. The building includes all of
the infrastructure necessary to support onsite solar energy generation and energy storage systems and to
enable high speed electric vehicle charging for the Police Department’s electric vehicle fleet while reducing the
building’s electricity charges. Construction of the footings for the canopy has been completed.
The solar energy canopy design went through an extensive public process to secure approval of a design that is
appropriate for the neighborhood and meets the requirements of the Historic Districts Commission. Solar
canopy and energy storage system construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
Old Reservoir Bath House Renovation
Originally approved by Town Meeting in 2019, the bids for this project came in over-budget multiple times, due
to a series of factors including the COVID pandemic and resulting supply chain shortages.
The renovation includes repairs to the plumbing system, installation of new fixtures, electrical upgrades,
replacement of the existing roof, and reconfiguration of the main entrance. It also addresses accessibility issues
within the bathhouse, walkway, and surrounding site, including the installation of ADA-accessible parking spaces
located in close proximity to the Old Reservoir. The project was completed and open to the public in June 2025.
173 Bedford Street
2024 Town Meeting appropriated $6 million for the renovation of 173 Bedford Street to provide swing space
for the School Administration’s Central Office staff, the Cary Library renovation, and potentially the Town Office
building renovation, over the next 10 to 15 years. The scope of the renovation includes adding an elevator,
adding a fire suppression sprinkler system, converting to an all-electric HVAC system while expanding the HVAC
system to provide heating and cooling on the second floor, plus some interior fit out work. The project began in
April 2025 and Central Administration Staff is expected to move into the space in January 2026].
Pine Meadows Clubhouse Renovation
The clubhouse, constructed prior to the Town’s purchase of the Pine Meadows property in 1988, has not
undergone any significant renovation in the past 30 years. $2,575,000 was appropriated in FY2025 for the costs
associated with renovation of the clubhouse including installing a solar energy system at the Pine Meadows Golf
Club.
This project also includes renovation of the main concourse area, the restrooms, plumbing, windows, and roof.
This project will not only restore the clubhouse to a modern and functional facility, but will also bring it into
ADA-compliance, making it welcoming and accessible for all. Construction began in April 2025 and is expected
to be complete in the Fall of 2025
Bedford Street and Hartwell Avenue Complete Streets Design
Traffic issues in the Hartwell Avenue corridor are one of the key concerns cited by residents and business
owners. 2019 Special Town Meeting appropriated $1.5 million for the 25% design of the Bedford Street/Hartwell
Avenue/Wood Street Corridor. The Town formed a 25% design working group in November 2020, and hired an
engineering and planning firm in January 2021 to develop 25% design level plans for complete streets
reconstruction that addresses safety, traffic flow and pedestrian, bicycle, transit, and alternative modes of
transportation.
Based on input from the Select Board, the consultant revised the build out and traffic analysis to include future
development and expanded the study limits to include the I-95 interchange. In September 2024, the Select
Board reviewed the conceptual design and authorized Town staff and the consultant to proceed with numerous
public outreach and information sessions to finalize the design. In January 2025, the Select Board approved the
preferred design based on feedback received during public information sessions.
On June 23, 2025, the Town of Lexington was selected to receive an award of $1,650,000 for the study and
design of safety improvements at the I-95 and Route 4/225 interchange. The interchange is integral to the
success of the Bedford Street and Hartwell Avenue Complete Streets project.
Unfortunately, the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Board did not incorporate Lexington’s Bedford &
Hartwell Complete Streets project in the FY26-30 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The MPO board
voted 11 (in favor) and 10 (opposed) to not include new projects that are not yet at 25% design approved. The
MPO’s decision is based on current TIP project delays and cost increases. Town staff were encouraged by the
MPO Chair to submit a TIP Amendment in the fall or winter after 25% design approval is issued by MassDOT to
be reconsidered for inclusion on the TIP. Staff and VHB expect the 25% design to be submitted to MassDOT by
the fall of 2025.
Pump Station Upgrade Project
The Department of Public works celebrated the completion of the wastewater pump station at the corner of
North Street and Adams Street during a ribbon-cutting ceremony November 2024. The completion of this
project represents the end of a 12-year effort to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Town's network of
wastewater pump stations. The project was led by the DPW
Engineering Division with coordination from the DPW Water/Sewer Division. These pump stations are critical to
the control of waste water throughout the town. The following pump stations were upgraded over the last
twelve years listed by project start date.
• 2012: Concord Avenue
• 2012: Potter Pond
• 2014: Brigham Road
• 2015: Main Pump Station
• 2015: Worthen Road
• 2019: Constitution Drive
• 2019: Marshall Road
• 2021: Hayden Avenue
• 2023: North Street
Zero Waste Reduction and Management
Waste management costs continue to rise across Massachusetts, creating pressure on municipal budgets,
including Lexington’s. The Select Board’s goal is to establish a waste collection system that addresses rising costs
and advances the Town’s environmental objectives.
Reducing trash by reducing the total amount of waste generated by residents is ideal. In 2023, Lexington
produced 8,014 tons of trash and 3,450 tons of recycling through the curbside programs. Of the trash, 1,843
tons could have been recycled, and 3,045 tons could have been composted. Diverting compostable trash to the
Town’s curbside composting program would preserve valuable organic waste and reduce costs associated with
trash collection and disposal. Currently about 3,500 households, a little more than a quarter of all, participate
in the Town’s no-fee curbside composting. Adopting automated trash collection would also reduce the rate of
increase in trash collection costs.
Many communities in Massachusetts have adopted some form of metering or fees associated with trash
disposal. On average, these 155 communities generate 29% less trash per household when compared to
communities that have no limits on trash disposal. At the Select Board’s request, the Waste Reduction Task
Force surveyed town residents and 74% of the 1,500 respondents indicated they supported automated
collection and 54% supported some form of fee for excess trash disposal.
Over the next year, the Select Board intends to explore options to contain waste disposal costs including:
• Adopting regulations and fees on bulky item disposal
• Consider fees for excess trash generation
• Consider standardization of trash carts and adoption of automated collection
• Strongly encourage composting of organics, food, and yard waste