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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-01-20-REC-min (includes attachments) `OVS MORN' O� 1775 tic Town of Lexington D x W Recreation Committee APRIL 19' �FXINGSO� Frederick DeAngelis, Chairman Tel: (781) 698-4800 Lisah Rhodes, Vice Chair Fax: (781) 861-2747 Lisa O'Brien Francesca Pfrommer Christian Boutwell Recreation Committee Minutes of Meeting January 20, 2021 A virtual meeting of the Recreation Committee was held on Wednesday,January 20, 2021 at 7:00pm through the Zoom platform. Members Present: Rick DeAngelis,Lisah Rhodes, Christian Boutwell,Lisa O'Brien,and Francesca Pfrommer Staff Present: Melissa Battite,Director of Recreation and Community Programs,Peter Coleman, Assistant Director of Recreation, Christine Dean,Community Center Director,Chris Filadoro,DPW Superintendent of Public Grounds,Katharine Labrecque, Management Fellow,Dave Pinsonneault,DPW Director,Thomas Romano,Youth and Family Program Coordinator, and Melinda Spencer,Administrative Manager Others Present: Meredith Applegate (42 Reed Street, Lexington), Suzie Barry (Select Board liaison), Michael Broderick(8 Pine Knoll Road, Lexington), Ellen Cameron (Council on Aging liaison), Eileen Jay (School Committee liaison), Ara Najarian (8 Manning Street), and Leslie Wilcott-Henrie (70 East Street, Lexington) 1. December 16,2020 Minutes Lisah Rhodes moved and Lisah O'Brien seconded the approval of the minutes from the December 16th meeting. The Recreation Committee voted 5-0 to approve the December 16 minutes. 2. Public Comment—None 3. Farmers' Market Permit Request Leslie Wilcott-Henrie,President of the Lexington Farmers' Market,provided the Committee with a brief overview of the Farmers' Market and discussed the request for the 2021-2023 seasons. The proposal is attached to the meeting minutes. The Farmers' Market started 17 years ago and is held at Fletcher Park. The market is held on Tuesday afternoons from 2:00-6:30pm from the last week in May through the end of October(it closes at 6:00pm starting in October). Set-up begins at noon and the site is cleared by 7:30pm, at the latest. Ms. Wilcott-Henrie reported that while last year was unique, the Farmers' Market was deemed an essential service and only opened two weeks late. It is anticipated that the COVID modifications may still be in effect this year with tents being 10 feet apart and having a single entrance and exit in place. With the upcoming Center Streetscape project as well as the construction of a new Police Station, it is anticipated that Fletcher Park will not be available for the next three years as it is anticipated to be used as staging areas for these capital projects. Ms. Wilcott-Henrie has been speaking with Jim Malloy, Town Manager, and Dave Pinsonneault, DPW Director in recent months about an alternative location for the Farmers' Market and based on these conversations,it is recommended 2 that the market relocate to the Worthen Road practice field. Mr.Pinsonneault added that in addition to the Worthen Road practice field, other sites that were considered include the Muzzey Field, Hastings Park, the Visitors Center, and Tower Park,but all of these sites have their challenges. Additionally, Lower Hayden was not considered as a potential site due to the condition of the field. Ms.Wilcott-Henrie stated that the site for the Farmers' Market must be accessible,have ample parking,provide a large enough space, and be as close to Lexington Center as possible. The practice field was also renovated a few years ago to help improve the drainage. For all of these reasons, that is why the Worthen Road practice field is the desired location. While the Farmers' Market is looking for a 3-year relocation, Ms. Battite informed the Committee that if approved, an annual review would be necessary, as is the case with all field permits. It was also noted that the field permit fee would be waived,which would not result in the loss of revenue since Lexington High School Athletics does not pay for use of this field which is during the same times as the Market. After the presentation by Ms. Wilcott-Henrie, members of the Committee asked questions and expressed their thoughts on the proposal. Rick DeAngelis, Chairman of the Recreation Committee, acknowledged that the Farmers' Market is a community resource and said that he was supportive of this. As the practice field is adjacent to the Center 91 baseball field, Mr. DeAngelis asked how patrons would be protected from a foul balls. Ms. Wilcott-Henrie stated that the practice field is twice as large as Fletcher Park and the plan would be for vendors to set up on the part of the field located closest to the woods and Worthen Road. Another point that was raised was surrounding how often the Farmers' Market cancels and if it would be subject to the policies that are in place regarding field closures. Ms. Wilcott-Henrie indicated that the market closes very rarely as there are those that are food insecure that rely on the Farmers' Market. Mr.Pinsonneault stated that the condition of the field would need to be monitored closely and the decision about closing the field would need to be made fairly early. Ms.Battite, reiterated that enhanced communication with the Farmers' Market would be needed. It was also recommended that the Farmers' Market would be able to join the Sports Advisory Council while being held at the Worthen Road practice field to receive regular updates on the athletic fields. Several other questions were asked. Francesca Pfrommer expressed her concerns about parking as during a regular year, the Farmers' Market would open before the school day ends at Lexington High School ends and Worthen Road can be crowded with student parking and inexperienced drivers. Lisa O'Brien expressed the importance of making sure the field is left in good condition so it can be used by other organizations throughout the season. Ms. Wilcott- Henrie said that the market would do their best to leave the field in good condition every week and Mr.Pinsonneault added that the field would be included in the end-of-season maintenance performed at the athletic fields to ensure that it would be useable the following spring. While the market could be held on either asphalt or grass, a grassy surface is preferred for a few reasons. First,when it comes to securing the tents,it is easier to use stakes as compared to anchoring them and second, asphalt can get quite hot, especially during the summer months. As far as next steps are concerned, Ms. Wilcott-Henrie stated that the Farmers' Market would work with the Police Department as public safety is a prime concern. A site visit with representatives from the Farmers' Market,Police, Fire, DPW, and Recreation and Community Programs would be scheduled for the spring prior to the market opening for the season. Additionally, staff would work with the Lexington High School Athletic Director and the School Department regarding potential impacts and coming up with alternatives for where teams could practice on days when the Farmers' Market was open. Recreation Committee feedback about the proposal was needed prior to reaching out to the Lexington Public Schools with an update. 39 MARRETT ROAD,LEXINGTON,MASSACHUSETTS 02421 3 At the conclusion of the discussion, Rick DeAngelis made the following motion: "The Recreation Committee moves to approve permitting of the Worthen Road practice field to the Lexington Farmers'Market for the 2021 season, subject to acceptable arrangements being made with the Lexington High School Athletic Director and School Department, all applicable COVID-19 guidelines and other government regulations are in effect, and compliance with the Town of Lexington Athletic Field and Court Use Policy. An annual review of this permit will be required to renew each subsequent year for up to a total of three(3)years as long as all necessary conditions are met." Lisah Rhodes seconded the motion. The Recreation Committee voted 5-0 to approve this motion. 4. Naming of Basketball Courts—Center Recreation Complex in memory of Robert Farias Attached to the meeting minutes is a request from Lisa Mazerall, the daughter of Bob Farias, to name the outdoor basketball courts at the Center Recreation Complex in memory of her father. Rick DeAngelis was a dear friend of Bob Farias and spoke very fondly of him. Mr. DeAngelis said that Mr.Farias was a great individual who mentored people of all ages. He influenced the lives of countless kids and altered the courses of life for so many students and student-athletes. According to Mr. DeAngelis, Mr. Farias was way more than a basketball coach and was among the greatest Lexingtonians that the Town has ever had. Mr. Farias offered summer basketball clinics through the Department at the Center Basketball Courts and Mr. DeAngelis believed it would be quite appropriate to name the courts in honor of Mr. Farias. After making his comments, Rick DeAngelis made the following motion: "The Recreation Committee moves to name the outdoor basketball courts at the Center Recreation Complex in honor and in memory of Bob Farias." Lisah Rhodes seconded the motion. The Recreation Committee voted 5-0 to approve this motion. 5. Center After Dark—pilot program Peter Coleman, Assistant Director of Recreation,provided an overview of this pilot program that was approved by the Committee at its November 2020 meeting. Beginning on December 7, 2020, the lights at the Center Track were scheduled to be on until 7:00pm every Monday- Thursday night and the lights dim at 6:45pm to give people a 15-minute warning prior to them shutting off. This program allows people to walk,jog, or run on the track at night and it has been noted that people are taking advantage of the opportunity. There was a period of approximately a week in late December when the track was snow-covered and the lights did not turn on since the track was unusable. The initial pilot program was scheduled to run through the end of January and the request was to extend the program through the remainder of the winter. Francesca Pfrommer attested to the fact that the track has been utilized and recommended that instead of having a set shutoff time, the lights should be extended as daylight shifts. In other words, the lights would be on for two hours each night rather than turning off at 7:00pm each night. Other members of the Committee were in favor of this as well. After a brief discussion, Rick DeAngelis and Francesca Pfrommer made the following motion: "The Recreation Committee moves to extend the Center After Dark!pilot program at the Center Track through the remainder of the winter. An addendum to the pilot program is that as there is more daylight and the days become longer, the lights will be adjusted so they remain on approximately two (2) hours after sunset." Lisah Rhodes seconded the motion. The Recreation Committee voted 5-0 to approve this motion. 6. Liaison Reports The January 2021 Liaison Reports are attached to the meeting minutes.Lisa O'Brien, liaison to the Lincoln Park Sub-Committee, shared that the remembrance ceremony for Shen Cai went well on Saturday December 19th. Suzie Barry, liaison to the Select Board,reported that the Select Board unanimously approved the 2021 Recreation and Community Programs Fee Schedule as part of the consent agenda during its meeting on Monday, January 11th. The Select Board also 39 MARRETT ROAD,LEXINGTON,MASSACHUSETTS 02421 4 supported the decision of the Committee to not remove snow from the athletic fields. Lastly, the Select Board supports the Article 28,which would increase the Committee's membership from five to seven members. This will be voted on at the 2021 Annual Town Meeting and may be included as part of the consent agenda(article is attached to the meeting minutes). Francesca Pfrommer, liaison to the Greenways Corridor Committee,provided brief updates on the "Wright Farm loop"and Hartwell Innovation project. A letter to the Planning Board regarding the Hartwell Avenue project and a letter of support for the Shared Streets and Spaces grant program are attached to the meeting minutes. Ellen Cameron, liaison to the Council on Aging,reported that people are remaining active by participating in Community Center classes through Zoom. Other initiatives that the Council is working on includes the age-friendly assessment as well as parking for seniors in town. Eileen Jay, liaison to the School Committee,indicated that the Lexington Public Schools were remote the first two weeks of January and the hybrid model and remote learning academy resumed as of this week. Ms. Jay also indicated that COVID testing for staff, middle school students, and high school students has begun on a volunteer basis and will take place every two weeks. 7. Community Needs Assessment—Working Group Updates Melissa Battite,Peter Coleman, Christine Dean, Community Center Director, and Katharine Labrecque, Management Fellow,provided a brief update on the Community Needs Assessment working groups. The working groups include Facilities,Programs, Finance, and Maintenance and the updates are attached to the meeting minutes. 8. Review of Working Group Conservation Commission & Recreation Committee Ms Battite shared a draft of the Conservation Commission and Recreation Committee Goal and Priority Setting Working Group and the draft is attached to the meeting minutes. Similar to the Community Needs Assessment working groups, Recreation and Conservation share goals that are brought forward to the Community Preservation Committee (CPC). And for example,if a goal or project was specific to Lincoln Park, then the Lincoln Park Sub-Committee could be invited to participate in the conversation. Two members from the Committee are needed to serve on the working group and Lisah Rhodes and Lisa O'Brien both expressed their interest. Rick DeAngelis made the following motion: "The Recreation Committee moves to approve the draft of the Conservation Commission and Recreation Committee Goal and Priority Setting Working Group, as written." Lisah Rhodes seconded the motion. The Recreation Committee voted 5-0 to approve this motion. 9. Recreation & Community Programs & Parks Report The January 2021 Recreation& Community Programs Report is attached to the meeting minutes. Melissa Battite,Peter Coleman, and Christine Dean provided brief updates. Ms. Dean gave a description of the CHNA 15 grant that will be used for pop-up programs throughout the year. The first one will be decorate and donate a bird feeder. People will pick up the bird feeder kit on Friday, January 29th between 1:30-3:00pm and then hang the bird feeder at Cotton Farm once completed. The next virtual meeting of the Recreation Committee is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, February 17"at 7:00pm through the Zoom platform. The January 20`", 2021 meeting of the Recreation Committee adjourned at 9:01pm. Respectfully submitted, Peter Coleman 39 MARRETT ROAD,LEXINGTON,MASSACHUSETTS 02421 5 Assistant Director of Recreation The following documents distributed at the meeting are attached: • Lexington Farmers' Market Overview • Request to name the Center Basketball Courts in memory of Bob Farias • January 2021 Liaison Reports • Letter to the Planning Board regarding the Hartwell Avenue Draft Zoning Proposal • Shared Streets and Spaces Grant Program Letter of Support • Article 28—Increase Recreation Committee Membership • Community Needs Assessment Working Groups—January 2021 Updates • Draft of Conservation Commission and Recreation Committee Goal and Priority Setting Working Group • January 2021 Recreation & Community Programs Report • Updated FY2022-FY2026 Recreation 5-Year Capital Plan Summary Sheet • Boston Sports Club Memo 39 MARRETT ROAD,LEXINGTON,MASSACHUSETTS 02421 Lexington Farmers' Market Note: information represents operation in non-COVID year. COOVID roodifications are, in red Calendar and Hours of Operation: * Tuesdays: last week in May to the end of October 0 2-6:30 pm (closes at 6 pm starting in October) 0 Setup begins at noon, and site is cleared by 7:30 at the latest Relocate for 2021-2023: request full three years relocation, permitted by Recreation Dept, annually. Fees: Request that fees for site use are waived, as they are for Fletcher Park Farmers and Vendors: * General market capacity is between 22-24 farmers and vendors * total of—30 tents each market day, including artisans, musicians and community tent * COVID rriodifIcations: 15 fanner s and vendors, no additional parlor:i°pants Site Landscape: * Twice the length of Fletcher Park; flexibility in locating the market within the site to avoid potential flooding or errant baseballs. Ad(,rquate room for C(DVO spac4ig of tents * COV0 irioidfficadons�'� DPW ��)rovkles temporaryfenCfir�g weOdy for singki, entrance/exit: Farmer/Vendor Parking: 0 Vendors drive onsite for easy loading/unloading, maximum of six leave their vehicles onsite by their tents, remainder park behind restrooms at center playground Customer Parking: • Sufficient parking available on Worthen, center playground and surrounding area • Next steps: work with Lexington Police Dept, on traffic plan and designating spots for market parking (same as Fletcher Park), including handicapped spots along site/Worthen Bathrooms (required to provide restroom access for farmers/vendors) 0 Access restrooms by tennis courts during non-COVID year 0 Rent portapotty to place on the site when bathroom renovations take place Market Storage: No area for storage of market materials (tents, signage, etc) 0 Need to place a! small shed onsite (approximate size 6' x 8') Garbage/Recycling: 0 Next steps: work with DPW for garbage and recycling bin dropoff and pickup (same as Fletcher Park Request to name outdoor court after Bob Farias Bob was a stand-out basketball and football player at DUrfee High School in 1-,'all River. In 1969, lie event on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Education from Westfield State and a Master's in Education from Boston University. After marrying his college sweetheart, Bob began his career in education in Lexington, MA where lie taught at Adams Elementary, I larrington Elementary, and pioneered and directed the A.C.E program at Lexington High School. In addition to educating and mentoring students, Farias started his highly successful 41 year tenure as head coach of Lexington Boys Varsity basketball. Lexington won the state title in 1978, defeating his Alma Mater Bob was a stand-OLIt basketball and football player at DUrtee I ligh School in Fall River. In 1968, lie went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Education from Westfield State and a Master's in Education from Boston University, After marrying his college sweetheart, Bob began his career in education in Lexington, MA where lie taught, at Adams Elementary, Harrington Elemental,),, and pioneered and directed the A.C.E program at Lexington High School. In addition to educating and mentoring students, Farias started his highly successful 41 year tenure as head coach of Lexington Boys Varsity basketball. Lexington won the state title in 1978, defeating his Alma Mater DUrfee, and Farias was named Coach of the Year by the Boston Globe and the Boston Herald. Farias directed numerous basketball camps for boys and girls of all ages(many that were located oil the outdoor Lexington COLUIS), was the head coach of the Massachusetts state all-stars, a Bay State Games head coach and has been inducted into the Massachusetts Coaches Hall of Farne, Westfield State Hall of Fame, New England Coaches Hall of Fame and Durfee High School Hall of Farne." He spent many surnmer/fall running basketball clinics for all ages boys and girls on those outside courts. His clinics/camps inspired many. In addition, he managed the outdoor nighttime league I'm- many years. Respectfully submitted, Lisa Farias Mazerall (oil behalf of the Committee to name the outdoor Lexington courts in memory of Coach Bob Far-ias) 781-572-6690 Liig,�iK,23@insn.com J? Town cif Lexington 49 92 >r Recreation Committee N Frederick DeAngelis, Chairman Tel: (781) 698-4800 Lisah Rhodes, Vice Chair Fax! (781) 861-2747 I.Asa O'Brien Ruixi (Ray)YLian Francesca Pfroninier Recreation Committee January 2020 Liaison Reports ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Lincoln Park: Respectfully submitted, Lisa O'Brien Dear David and others,Yesterday was sunny and bright. We had a beautiful and moving ceremony, about 20,Thank you, Melissa (Interess), for your compassionate and informative speechAn the attached photo, girl on the far right is Ms. Cai's daughter. 7 AWN" W 1625 MASSAC I IUSEITTS AVINUE-1.1-AINGTON,N I ASSACHUSEIFFS 02,120 Select Board—SucieBarry Atthe l/l1/21Select Board meeting, the Board unanimously approved the annuw| request from the Recreation Committee toincrease Recreation Fees The Greenway Corridor Commission, Respectfully submitted by Francesca Pfrommer The GCC met January 7th. The meeting focused onpriority projects Thatareupconning as well as robust discussion of the Hartwell Innovation Project Draft Zoning bylaws that will be ratified nnJan. 21, 2O21. The current most active project is one that will create a trail to connect the landlocked forest to the trail (maybe called the "Wright Farm loop" that connects in at Wright farm and out of the forest at the Turning Mill Road access point). Working on getting the permiitting done right now. Hopefully thietrail can bebuilt imearly spring 2021. The Hartwell Innovation Project /xvhichactua||ybnsroVtsaNthew/aybacktoZOO9\ isgaiming momentum asthe town ishoping togenerate more tax revenue via development along Hartwell' Avenue.The GCC was originally founded in response to the 2009 West Lexington Greenway Master Plan report and is excited that there may be forward progress on implementing some of the reports recommendations.The GCC passed a motion to advocate for interconnected bikeways and walkways as part of the zoning guidelines and forwarded that to the Zoning Board, Economic Development Board, and Select Board. The GCC isalso working tobring their vision ofvvayfimding signs throughout Lexington to fruition. They have in-house capability to create the overlay design for sign placement and the signage itself. They will be approaching the Conservation commission, LPS, the Bicycle Advisory Committee, and Town of Arlington regarding permission to post signs on trails in the upcoming month. 2 1775 'Lexington Recreation Committee Frederick DeAngelis, Chairman TcL (78l)698-4800 LlouhRhodes, Vice Chair Fax: (78l) 86l-274? Lisa O'Brien Christian Boutmdl FromceocoP6nnumcc January 14, 28Z1 TO:Amanda Loomis, Planning Director Fr: Francesca Pfvmmmer, Recreation Committee Member RE: Hartwell Avenue Draft Zoning Proposal | amwriting onbehalf ofthe Recreation Committee, asliaison tothe GCC. This letter|stnshare the Recreation Committee's support of the development of infrastructure to enhance walkability and bike- abilityindudln0anuhfs1reeTtraiUnetworkasporLmfthe Hartwell Avenue Draft Zoning Bylaw asvoted during the January 7, 2O2UGCC meeting. Aspart ofthe Recreation and Community Programs "2Ol4-2U16 ,four priorities and goals were identified, one ofwhich |s °Preserve, protectondimprmwcLmxington'sracneotioninfrostructuro^. The Town and Recreation Committee have continued to explore and support initiatives to do so as reflected imthe Capital Plan that is presented annually. We are now in 2021 and implementation of the recently completed Town ofLexington 2020 Corn ni Needs Assessment is underway. The Needs Assessment outcomes and recommendations reflect the community's two top priorities for facilities were investment in nature trails and in paved walking and biking trails We request that the zoning bylaw specify that the trail system prioritize accessibility, as that was also cited in the findings ofthe Needs Assessment mswell as the . The Recreation Committee and the Recreation and Community Programs Department have worked in recent years to align our goals with those of the Select Board, especially around creating more accessible and sustainable trail systems throughout town. We unanimously support the Greenway Corridor Commission (GCC) in their motion and urge the Planning Board toensure that any development guidelines iothe bylaws include planning for increased recreational infrastructure, Thank you. CC:Jim Malloy,Town Manager Carol Kowalski,Asst.Town Manager ofDevelopment Sandhya |yecEconomic Development Director Karen Mullins, Conservation Director Recreation Committee SuzieBarry, Select Board Liaison, Keith Ohmart, GCC Chair Bob Creech, Planning Board Chair " Mo. 05 MO& 177S 0 Town of Lexington Recreation Committee Frederick DeAngelis, Chairman Tel: (781)698-4800 Lisah Rhodes, Vice Chair Fax: (781)861-2747 Lisa O'Brien rggggjimc te I xin tLonrn , ov —Ay— Christian BOLItwell Francesca Pfrommer January 11, 2021 To Whom It May Concern-. On behalf of the Recreation Committee, it is my pleasure to write a letter in support of the Shared Streets and Spaces Grant Program being submitted to the Mass SOT by the Town of Lexington. The Recreation Committee is responsible for the planning and administration of public playgrounds and recreational centers in the Town of Lexington. It is charged with administering, expanding, and promoting recreation, leisure activities, play, sports and physical education. The Lexington Recreation and Community Programs Depa rt me tit's deliver), of services to the community during the pandemic has been drastically impacted by reduced access to indoor space. The proposed semi-permanent programming space afforded by a tent, accessible flooring, tables and chairs will allow residents of all ages to come to the Community Center to engage in social and physical activities. The tent will provide protection ftom the elements, a defined space, and constant air circulation. The Committee believes that creating a space for popular programs such as chair fitness, discussion and support groups, meal delivery, youth STEM classes, and group exercise to resume will be a significant benefit to the community's health and Nvellbeing. I holly support the efforts of the Town of Lexington as they seek external handing to support a facility designed to allow for safe and healthy access to programming and services. Sincerely, Frederick DeAngelis Recreation Committee Chair 1625 NIASSACI IUSFTI S AVENIT"- H-AINGTON, NIASSACI 1USET1 S 02420 ARTICLE 28 INCREASE IN RECREATION COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP To see if the Town will vote to increase the membership of the Recreation Committee to seven members; or act in any other manner in relation thereto. (Insei-lecl by the Select Bour(I ca the mquest ol'the Recreation Commillee) DESCRIPTION: This article Nvould increase the membership of the Recreation Committee frorn 5 to 7 members due to the increased responsibilities of the Committee, including the creation of liaison positions on other boards and committees,active capital projects and implementation of a community needs assessment. 14 i �V 4M . Lexington RECREATION&.COMMUNITY . PROGRAMS Town a f Lexington Reci-eation aiirl Community Piogi-ams Melissa Battite, CPRP Tel: 781-698-4800 Director of'Recreation and Community Progranls Fax: 781-861-2747 f, Recreation Committee 2020 Community Needs Assessment Working Groups January 2021. Updates Community Needs Assessment 2020 The Recreation Committee is reviewing the Key Findings and Recommendations of the 2020 Community Needs Assessment through the development of three working groups; Facilities/Infrastructure; Programming/Level of Service and Financial. The staff will meet with committee members to work towards recommendations and implementation in 2021 and beyond. A Maintenance Working Group will compromise of staff from both the Recreation and Public Works Department, The Facilities/Infrastructure Working Group is led by Peter Coleman,Asst. Director of Recreation with Committee participation from Christian Boutwelll and Lisah Rhodes. During the January meeting, focus was on the short term, 2021 attainable goals. This includes collaborating with The Conservation Commission, gather local and regional information to better understand Land Acquisition practices/criteria and to look at maximizing Outdoor Recreation Facilities permitting. The Program/Level of Service Working Group is led by Christine Dean, Community Center Director with Committee participation from Lisa O'Brien and Youth & Family Coordinator, Thomas Romano, and Kate DeAngelis,Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. During the January meeting, focus on four of the key recommendations for implementation during 2021. Enhance relationships with community stakeholders, identify and pursue grant opportunities for programming, and explore outdoor nature programs in addition to continued growth with cultural and therapeutic opportunities. �r+u+�a:.IcMuangk�arrrna.�.�v�ccwr�M�rtir�.rt rC'.0epic, lex nFLanrn�L4 aV- 39 MARRETT ROAD,LEXINGTON,MA 02421(office) 1,625 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE,LEXINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02420(mQif) The Financial Working Group is led by Katharine La,brecque, Management Fellow with participation from Melissa Rattite, Director ofRecreation QCommunity Programs and Committee participation from Rick DeAngelis and Francesca Pfrommnner. During the January meeting, continued discussion included focus on exploring next step towards what is needed to support a local Foundation and alternate funding sources, in particular with the Open Space, trail maintenance and park system. Work towards identifying the lead/support agency for operational and capital planning for each asset. Take recommendations from other working groups toidentify astructure/funding model tosupport both operating and capital needs. The Maintenance Working Group is led by Melissa Bwttite, Director of Recreation 8' Community Programs aindparticipation from Dave Pinsonmeau|t, Director ofPublic Works, Peter Coleman, Asst. Director of Recreation, Hayato Tsurumaki, Recreation Supervisor, Chris Filacloro, Parks Superintendent and Marc Valenti, DPW Manager of Operations. The first meeting isscheduled for late January tubegin reviewing the Key Findings and Facility Assessments. 1 DRAFT 12/2020, rev 1/21 Conservation Commission and Recreation Committee Goal and Priority Setting Working Group 1. Participants: 2 - Conservation Commission members 2 - Recreation Committee members 1- Greenway Corridor Committee member'? 1 Conservation Staff Member 1- Recreation Staff Member Meeting Times: Twice/year (February and September) Description: This group will consider Conservation Commission and Recreation Committee Goals and Priorities for planning and communication purposes for developing each of their respective annual budgets in an effort to streamline efforts and maximize resources with a holistic approach for the individual projects, Documents to support the efforts of the work include: 1) Conservation Commission Goals and Priority Projects 2) Recreation Committee Goals and Priorities 3) Action Plan of the 2015 (and as amended every 7 years) Open Space and Recreation Plan Update httns://www.lexingtonma.gov/s-ites/lexingtonma/files/pagesllex-ington osrp u pdate 2015. final report 01-14-1-6.pdf) r. 4) 2020 Community Needs Assessment littps:./.Iwww,lexingtoiima.gov/s-ites/g/files/vyhlif3351/f/upload-s/,lexington re l2ort 200930 with full appendix 1. df The goal of the group will be to evaluate current projects and the proposed master list of projects of each Commission/Committee while balancing newly identified projects along with limited available resources, including Capital and CPA funds and staff bandwidth, in order to make recommendations to their respective Commission/Committee for setting and requesting annual and 5-year Capital Improvement Projects. Consideration of priorities shall be given to projects that achieve multiple Goals identified-in the 2015,and as amended, Opens Space and Recreation Plan Update Action Plan and 2020 Community Needs Assessment. _L...__e 1t'1CgtC)..._ RECREATION&COMMUNITY ... raaa c;rn ns s.... 'own of Lexington Recreation and Community 11'rograms Melissa Battite, CPRP Tel: 781-698-4806 � Director of Recreation and C©mIlteulity Programs Far: 781-869-2747 Recreation & Community Programs January 20121 Report rvwfvwwwwwwwwwwrvwry rvrvwwrvwwwwwrvrywrvww.wwwwwwwrvw.vwwwwwwrvww.w w.www------~------rvrvrvwwrv--- News & Updates: CHNA Grant (flyer attached). NRPA Agency membership—would members like to opt in for emaiIs? Next meeting—Feb. 17th—vacation week? Updates to 5-Year Capital Plan—in speaking with the Town Manager and Assistant Town Manager for Finance,there have been two adjustments to the Recreation FY2022-- r FY2026 5-Year Capital Plan. The design/engineering work for the Pine Meadows clubhouse renovation has been deferred to FY2024 (it was originally scheduled for FY2O22, with the construction set for FY2026) and the Community Center campus expansion is now in the plan as a placeholder with the dates for schematic design, design development, and construction listed as TBD. New summary page attached The FY22 fee schedule that was approved by the Recreation Committee at its December meeting was approved by the Select Board on Monday,January 11t". The majority of the fee increases will go into effect on July 1, 2021, while other fees (tennis, golf) will be implemented for the 2021 season. Annual Town Meeting speeches and draft presentations are due by February 16th I Staff& Volunteers: f • Summer staff recruitment is underway. The application deadline for returning staff is Monday, February 11t and the application deadline for new applicants is Monday, March 15t. All job and volunteer opportunities are Fisted in the Surr mer 202 Er 1ployrrrwqrtt V Junteer 0 ortunities booklet. Inclusion: - 4 inclusion participants registered for typical recreation programming for Winter 2021 - Collaborating with LABBB to offer an intergenerational connection group with students and seniors w+w!ryI c xi r7p,,t!ar���ia�nL,ow�'res cre=M�tc�r� r���l z, t�i c,xi�rgtanu7ia.:.�;cry 39 MARRETT ROAD,LEXINGTON,MA 02421(office) 1625 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, LEXINGTON,MASSACHUSETTS 02420(mail) Community Center: Programming: • The winter session ofAdult Fitness classes began the week mfJanuary 4. There are 25 classes running per week. w The Forever Fit prngnmn\ funded by the Dana Horne Foundation, isoffering free personal training sessions with Judy Whitney. She isalso hosting aCoffee Break series, free to participants to share in the challenges and stresses of the pandemic. m In December the Community Center hosted a Grab and Go, Home for the Holidays kit. This program, sponsored by the Lexington Police Department and Lexington Food Services, provided Z5Obags ofgoodies for curbside pickup. * January will mark the first month for the Lexington Parks Pop Up Series. Bird Feeder Kits will beavailable for pick upand then hung atthe Cotton Farm property. |1isalso Blood Donor Awareness month; heart-shaped cookie cutters will be provided to signify the need for blood donors. Building: � In person staffing was reduced the week of December 21't due to the rise in COVID-19 oases. The Town Manager, along with the Health Department, is assessing week to week. The Community Center has remained staffed each day to continue essential operations. Recreation Division: Programming. • —thispilot program mtthe Center Track, which calls for the walking lights to be on until 7:00pm on Monday-Thursday evenings, has been received favorably by the community and residents have been expressing their appreciation to staff. Request toextend beyond January and adjust hours according to sunset. • Update omWinter programs—afew outdoor (street hockey), offsite (ice skating lessons at the Burlington lce Palace), and virtual (Lex Get Fit!) programs have started recently. The start date for all in-person programs atthe Lexington Public Schools has been delayed until atleast Monday, February lm. Staff have notified participants and instructors about program modification or cancellations that have occurred as a result. • Staff is currently preparing for the Summer 2021 season and the schedule for day camps, sports clinics, tennis, and STEAM programs will be finalized within the next few weeks. Summer program registration will begin om Monday, February 22m«. Operations: • The deadline tosubmit spring field requests isFriday, January 29m. The preseason field pernmithnlderrneetingistentadve|yschedu|edfnrVVedneoday, Mmrch1Bm a14:8Upmm. • Delay the pilot program for portable nestruonos due to the cost and COV|D. * An abutter ofthe Center Recreation Complex recently expressed his concern regarding the sound level ofthe practice hangboardsnext tothe Gallagher Tennis Courts, Golf ° Exterior work including replacement offascia boards and some gutter work lscurrently underway atthe PK4GCclubhouse. • New pull carts have been ordered for the 2021 season and are expected to arrive in May. The industry supplies have been significantly impacted bvC0VKD. Budget & Capital: w Operating � The next Financial Working Group meeting through the Town Manager's office has been scheduled for later this month and will continue todiscuss and explore sustainable funding models for the Department. • FY20Z0: • Diamond Field Renovation —the field work has been completed. The ADA improvements will be finalized in early spring and it is anticipated that there isapproximately 1week pfwork remaining. • Old Reservoir Bathhouse Renovation —staff met with the Facilities Department and architect onWednesday, January 13t"10discuss next steps for this project. Instead ofputting the project back out to bid, the potential for completing the project by establishing a variety of on-call contracts (electrical, plumbing, roofing, etc.) will be explored. • FY2021: m CenterL|ghtsProject—work |somgoing and the contractor began pouring the foundations for the tennis �htsonThu �ay,J�nuery14r^ Uo . |tieanticipated that this project will be completed by early March. • Center Restroorns@Maintenance Buh|dimg— Nieetingswith the Facilities Department and architect were held on, m Tuesday, and Tuesday, January 19th. The architect will bedoing anonsite visit omThursday. The goal, iotohave initial design options ready for review atthe February Recreation Committee meeting. • Sutherland Playground—the installation of the new playground at Sutherland Park ioset tobegin omapproximately March I5m (weather permitdng). • Planning for the other FY2021copitm| projects (athletic field feasibility study, Valley Tennis Courts resurfacing/ADA improvements, Harrington field renovation/ADA improvements) iscurrently underway. �. IV gadI i !� r 0 FFF XA �r I' r l exiit ip1E i �y+ �'iIY ,� q�Y'I �tt�uw �, A� �nr ver�siu,:ai.nnmmmroemiaiexm�ln�rrnr!�Ganrrdau�mns�u�,+�ri.�orr✓ewuw � � �:aiaavr imvmanrer„�vizniranurn+ivrrnriarreauwrw C H N A Uiiii1 tqn 'T"hese projects are funded through CHNA 15 RCCRCAI'm4&COhYM4.INI1Y Doo funds from Lahey Hospital and Medical P K U G k A M S Center and Winchester Hospital. POP'=UP PROGRAMS January February March April Decorate& Heart Healthy Pot of Gold Sunny Hop Donate Fitness Trails 121 • ."AYkJ�U 1kn UN/I/„iY ', •�w * �+�TMaumwn atakNVWi A,lAflilldl?i✓/npNai'10w� _ ��uwm xwm � rvrat��esf�YutmMGN u�.�w..:a, �.rvvv iatl ��rux✓Aammi�6ry�tlM Xn NY.:�pMU 2�U0 �nINIYa�I.'x'4-... may June July August Flower Power Family Camp Park Passport Ice Cream Out Social 0 September October ,.November..�. December Fairy House Story Walk Daffodils for Winter I I. Days Wonderland f r • . ' . +GOOD c3 Follow us on social media @lexrecreation and visit our website lexingtonma.gov/recreation to stay up to date with perp-up program dates, 91 times, and locations! c�axo, i�rii��af'. i �nmrx�i.raan�mnmraii�in.r vrrr�umu�e�rarxnnnxunimrwavn,r��eurrtr�rr.m��iy.mer i .., nc+iier rarani rr� irr r. �.ra,i�nzmr�mim�xa✓ur..tnrpm�iro�rruuummr�verr�e�, i u rq bA bA r Q_j pA C a o CC3 a C N DC7 ' e !_Y U L)µms. CEJ (11 �,,,� h CA CA 'tet do E13 EFi f�7 613 b9 613 bra V9 b9 69 yr v) b13 b4 Gn C G C7 C vlLn h� r r— 't bra &9 bra 6X3 613 613 (f) b9 6R3 61} 1,13 615 Gel) Vr En c cl o Q � v'i O C7 C3 C7 �r`r Ca ut 469 ,469 b9 b9 b9 E,r3 6'3 613 bra 613 CD H O in r, v� cs' may' N CA n:N CA rn C 6. E04 b9 GG V4 to GID bs rA G#O f;,l) rblc� � CD CD 7 v, " r- in Ca off. Cj "Dyn 99. V) 69 6x3 Drs b4 b9 6K# ........ 613_..._fA ieq 6'-? b9 6R3 bre b10tj cd bb s. I- r- .P.9 - r- 03 c. u a to Vll CL 44 -t4 e� rv> ] i Gl CL P y U u a U r 1 Lexington RECREAT ION&COMMUNITY P K 0 0 K A M S MEMORANDUM TO: James Malloy,Town Manager FROM: Melissa Battite, Director of Recreation & Community Programs DATE: December 15, 2020 SUBJECT: Site visit to 475 Bedford Street (Boston Sports Club) The Boston Sports Club, previously located at 475 Bedford Street has closed operations permanently. Since its closure, community members have asked the Town to pursue potential use and or purchase of this property for community (town and school) purposes. On Tuesday, December 8, 2020, the property owner provided town officials and staff a tour of the facility. Those in attendance included. Jim Malloy (Town Manager), Carol Kowalski (Asst. Town Manager of Development), Derek Sencabaugh (Fire Chief),Timothy Flaherty (Fire Captain), Mike Cronin (Director of DPF), Dave Pinsonneault (Director of DPW), Ross Morrow (Asst. Town Engineer), Dave Coelho (Asst. Superintendent of Finance/LPS) and Melissa Battite (Director of Recreation & Community Programs). The building was built in 1965 with multiple additions over the years. The facility is approximately 71K square feet with large multi-use spaces as well as specialized spaces including indoor tennis courts, a 6 lane swimming pool (25 yard length), locker rooms, cardio and fitness rooms and a dance studio. The following notes are a collection of opinions from those who tour the facility on December 8th, Accessibility - The building provides one ADA lift at the main entrance. Once in the facility, each space is on different levels requiring use of stairs in order to access any space within the building outside of the main entrance. The building is not ADA compliant. Physical Building— • There are multiple standing puddles of water in the interior spaces. The building will require a new root. o The basement level is wet and had active leaks through electrical conduits • The electrical panels do not meet code. • Some structural issues include: a good amount of rust on many of the metal components and systems; a few of the walls were buckling • The mechanical equipment is old and would require replacement soon. • Estimated utility costs are $30K per month (according to property owner) • The pool needed some work and is not regulation. o The deck is missing a significant amouint of the top aggregate Aggressive maintenance throughout would be needed to restore it to a usable space Exterior— • One end of the parking lot haid a large puddle along with other outdoor drainage issues, • The enitry/exit drive woul'd have to be reviewed from a traffic safety standpoint. • Abuts wetlands on two sides which may impact the possibilities for this location Future Possibilities— The property could be useful for park and ride commuters to the Hartwell corridor and possible land to contribute to the future roadway project, wefland/floodplain mitigation area for impacts during the Bedford/Hartwell work. In Conclusion —Overall, the parcel is a good size and in a good location. The building requires a lot of work in order to open to the public for community use. The connectivity within the building is disjointed causing lack of adequate and appropriate accessibility and safety. The tennis court area is sizable and in relatively good condition.The specialized spaces remain equipped with various equipment and supplies that may be beneficial to consider purchasing, such as cardio equipment, free weights, yoga balls, etc. Although the Community Needs Assessment identifies a deficiency to indoor spaces, it is the collective view that this property would not be a worthy investment for the Town of Lexington to pursue at this time given the many other capital, operational and financial challenges being faced. Thankyou. Cc: Kelly Axtell (Deputy Town Manager) Carol Kowalski (Asst,Town Manager of Development) Derek Sencabaugh (Fire Chief) Timothy Flaherty (Fire Captain) Mike Cronin (Director of DPF) Dave Pinsonneault (Director of DPW) Ross Morrow (Asst.Town Engineer) Dave Coelho (Asst. Superintendent of Finanice/LPS) 2