HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-09-12-LCC-min Town of Lexington
Lexington Center Committee
Notes for the meeting of September 12, 2019 (no quorum)
Parker Room, 1625 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, Massachusetts
Committee members: Katherine Huang, Howard Levin, Pamela Lyons,
Jerold Michelson (Chair), Pamela Shadley
Liaisons: Bob Creech, Planning Board, Frank Smith, Capital Expenditures
Committee, Melisa Tintocalis, Economic Development Director, Casey
Hagerty, Economic Development Office, Francine Stieglitz, Commission on
Disability, Joe Pato, Special Guest/BOS
Casey Hagerty gave the economic development update: there has been an
inquiry from a sit-down cafe for the GoodFeet space. LaDolda is moving
forward (and not moribund as some of us feared.) The Zagster contract
expires at the end of October and we are looking to extend it for another
month. Then we will review the numbers to see what makes sense as we
consider a contract for next year. Zagster is mostly used recreationally. We
are surrounded by Lime communities so consideration is being given to
having Lime in Lexington. The Bike Committee has asked the BOS for a
15mph speed on the bikeway.
Noting that the Bank of America has pulled a building/demo permit
Howard pointed out that it was important that BOA properly restore (and
improve) the area. Perhaps the building inspector could make this a
condition of the COA, emphasizing safety and lighting.
Casey noted that we now have an email list for center businesses and there
is a landlord list. Casey has been working with a retail consultant on a
questionnaire. The project goal is to identify obstacles to businesses
opening in the center.
The parklet will be removed after Halloween.
Casey and Melisa spoke with Anne Eccles and Marilyn Fenollosa regarding
games in the center - viewing games as a temporary, not permanent
installation. Things could change considerably once the streetscape project
comes to fruition.
The Planning Board has agreed to sponsor a STM article on ATM use in the
center. Article calls for eliminating stand alone ATMs, accessory use would
still be permitted. There will be a PB hearing on October 16th and our
November meeting will be moved to November 7.
Jerry noted that Berkshire Hathaway held a flea market under the guise of
fundraising. Similar uses have been denied by prior Town Manager (home
businesses.)
The Annual Craft Fair will take place on September 21 behind the Depot
Building.
David Tabeling resigned from the Committee.