HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-09-15-EDAC-min.docx (DRAFT)Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes September, 15, 2026
Members present: Rick DeAngelis, Sam Ang, Charlie Minasian, David Pronchick, Mitch
Tyson, Justin Fleming, Steve Kaufman, Jingshi Hu
Members absent: Adrinne Ortyl
Staff Present: Jay Abdella, Interim Economic Development Director
Liaisons: Doug Lucente, Select Board Liaison
Guests:
Jerry Michelson
Sharon Spaulding
Vote on July Minutes:
July minutes were approved unanimously by roll call.
Discussion with Lexington Center Property Owner Regarding Commercial Retail
Tenanting
Mr. Abdella requested to move the agenda item up to be respectful towards Ms.
Spaulding's time. Ms. Spaulding introduced herself as a property owner for 1646, 1656, and
1666 Massachusetts Avenue, as well as 5 Wallis Court. She discussed tenanting in
Lexington Center, and some of the challenge she has seen from tenants including signage
issues, taxes, as well as community disconnect within Lexington Center. Ms. Spaulding
mentioned ways of building community within her building, including having an ice cream
social, tenant coffee, and involving her space in Porchfest. She urged for more connectivity
throughout Mass Ave, especially for locations further down towards the Town Office
Building. Further discussion turned to general parking in Lexington Center where members
and community guests discussed how parking works and has been working in the Center.
Issues were raised with how employees utilized the employee parking program, lack of
alternative methods of parking, and lack of buy -in with certain employers. Members also
raised questions regarding the vibrancy in the Center, and comparing Lexington to other
municipalities. Other members and guests offered different perspectives, including how
working with the Town was overall a good experience compared to other municipalities,
and that Lexington Center was active. Mr. Tyson inquired about surveying residents to see
what they would like to see in Lexington. Discussion wrapped up as meeting extended past
10:OOam, and participants needed to leave for other obligations.
Motion to adjourn was approved unanimously by roll call at 10:07am.
Submitted by Jay Abdella