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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1989-02-BOS-min 6 6 cf If' 41 (k„ p.m SELECTMEN'S MEETING February 6, 1989 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, February 6, 1989 , in the Selectmen' s Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Eddison, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel ; Ms. Radwav, Asst. to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk were present. Selectman Dailey and Mr. White, Town Manager, joined the meeting later. DALE (AASLAND Mr. Spiers, Director of Public Works, introduced Dale Gaas l and, newly appointed Supt. of Grounds and Parks, to the Selectmen. He referred to Mr. Gaasland's extensive experience in the field, which highly qualifies him for this position in Lexington. Mrs. Smith noted the importance to Lexington of its green spaces and trees which makes Mr. Gaasland's job a big one. He was welcomed to the Town by all Board members and given a standing ovation. MINUTES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of Selectmen' s Meetings on January 9, January 11, and January 18, 1989. Mr. Marshall abstained from voting on the minutes of January 11 and January 18, because of his absence from those meetings. OLD COUNTY ROAD AREA STUDY Mr. Edd i Son spoke of a request from County Commissioner, Thomas Larkin, for comments on a draft contract with MAPC for a Regional Study of the Old County Road area. Mr. Eddison's draft response to the request for comments, which had been distributed to the Board, noted the Board 's resistance to the widening of Old County Road which is seen as a threat to the Hobbs Brook Reservoir watershed and a cause of increased traffic on Rte. 128. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the letter as drafted, to be sent the Commissioner Larkin on behalf of the Board. As indicated in the draft contract, Phase 1 of the planning proposal would involve the creation of a joint policy committee representing the various interests. Mrs. Smith expressed interest in representing Lexington on such a Committee. RESIGNATION, TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept, with regret, the resignation of L i l i S i l vera as a member of the Transportation Advisory Committee. The Board's appreciation of Mrs. S i l vera's excellent service to the Town while a member of the Committee will be expressed in a letter to her. CONSENT AGENDA WATER/SEWER ABATEMENTS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve abatement of Water Charges in the total amount of $3,565.98; and Sewer Charges in the total amount of $3,306.84. _2_ TRAFFIC ITEM, BERTUCCT Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to refer the traffic concerns of Claire R. Bertucc i , 50 Hill Street, to the Traffic Safety Adv i s cr',' Committee for review aril rPcomniendat i ons. Mr. Spiers explained that the large amount of abatements listed were in some cases for properties not connected to Town sewer and in others , due to incorrect meter readings by residents. BUDGET/CAPITAL REQUESTS LEXPRESS William Mix, Chairman, and Sally Castleman of the Transportation Advisory Committee and Pauline Burke, LEXPRESS Coordinator, were present for discussion of the LEXPRESS Capital request. Chairman Mix reported that his Committee would like to extend the life of the mini-busses to 1990 and will meet with the Contractor and 1-he Town Manager to speak about maintenance, which has not lived up to expectations . He proposed procedures for periodic oil testing to detect any potential damage to engines. He also will request Town support by periodic inspections of the busses by the DPW. He suggested that, in order to contain operating costs , the contractor purchase fuel through the Town at lower cost than is now paid. The Committee is looking at restructuring the entire route system but is reluctant to cut back at this time because of diminishing ridership of Middle School pupils. In the light of the recent MBTA veto of fare increase, the Committee is hesitant to increase LEXPRESS fares for fear of losing even more riders. In response to Mr. Eddison who will probably present the LEXPRESS Article at Town Meeting, Mr. Mix clarified the Committee's decision to delay cutting routes. Time has to be given to determining if new routing would he workable and would not cut off areas of high ri dPrsh i p. The T.A.C. feels tnat if the present fleet can De kep M, with a workable contract with F_l Dorado expended, it would be in a good position to come to Town Meeting with a $250,000 proposal . Mr. Mix will provide information on the financial impact if cuts in routes were to he made now. Mr. White joined the meeting at this time. HP felt that the Committee's approach was a sound one and saw the need for a year to examine route cuts so as to decrease ridership as little as possible. He supported the Committee's proposals for extension of the contract and periodic inspections of busses. Mr. McSweeney referred to the large MBTA assessment and the amount of Town funding for LEXPRESS and said that he was troubled to see near empty busses travelling through Town. He supported the LEXPRESS program for the needs of the elderly and handicapped but had problems with seeing that much money spent to transport a few students. Mrs,Smi th wished the Committee well with its new approach and thanked Mr. Mix for all the hard work done. Mr. White saw the Committee's effort as a responsible response to the need for tight budgeting. Selectmen's Meeting -3- February 6, 1989 SCHOOL DEPPPTMENT FY90 BUDGET/CAPTTAL REQUESTS Chairman Paul Newman, all members of the School Committee, and Superintendent of Schools , Philip Geiger, were in attendance -ror prpspr1., i cr of the School Department' s FY9C c pera- ' ,_g . c .r ana capi 4.a1 article requests. Mr. Newman commented that the Committee had for the first time prepared a 0-base budget and that public involvement had been invited through the process. The Committee and the Superintendent had agreed on a total request of 526,400,155. Capital requests totalled 1,850,000. M r. Newman credited Dr. Geiger for his work throughout the budget preparation procedures. Dr. Geiger reviewed with the Board various aspects of the School Budget as shown on sheets distributed to the Selectmen: salary increases, with 20% of the staff receiving approximately a 12% increase and 80% receiving an 8.1% increase. The total budget increase was shown as 8.5%. Also reviewed were reductions from the FY89 budget: cuts from the administrative staff; instructional support cuts; operations reductions; program reductions or eliminations; for a total $886,699 in major reductions . Dr. Geiger explained improvements (or ret increases) to the budget totalling $2,897,281. Mr. Newman noted that the process had opened up to the public as to how decisions on the budget had been made and what was being provided for the money spent. Mr. Marshall expressed his support of the proposed expense budget for the Schools , and indicated that he would probably support the Capital requests if he is convinced they are necessary. He foresaw problems in the future, however, with continuing the high rates of salary increases listed without program cuts to compensate. He urried attention to control of mandated Special Education programs and services . He complimented the School Committee and the Superintendent for the way the budget process is working this year. School Committee Member Alpert 'abi n, with reference to Senator Kraus ' forecast of a shortage of qualified teachers and resultant higher wages, felt that the Town must look at other sources of revenue, i .e. override of Proposition 2 1. Mr. Marshall pointed out that if teachers ' wages continue to rise significantly, more people will enter the field, which will then alleviate the shortage and the need to compete for their services . He saw the problem as short term. Mr. White saw no way, even with overrides, to continue the high level of increases requested for teachers, adding that next year cutting of programs may have to be looked at. Mr. Marshall suggested that the buy back of sick leave issue be examined as a potential source of funds for teachers ' raises. Dr. Geiger presented the School Department's Operating Budget proposal for FY90 in the total amount of $26,816,963. He noted that as Superintendent, he had two roles: to ensure provision of education and to demonstrate accountability for the School System. Mr. Dailey joined the meeting at this time. e) OT -4- Under 4-Ander Capital Improvements Pequests, he described a system wide program which would require acquisition of computer equipment costing $1,400,526, plus repairs and improvements to the High School , Estabrook School , '-;a rr~ngtcn, Bridge and Fiske Schools. The Schools ' total capital improvement requests amounted to .�.�1,P50,0OO. Mr. Eddison said he sensed the Board's general acceptance of the Operating Budget request, but questioned whether the Town could afford the entire Capital Improvements Program proposed, even though all the items were good ones. He questioned the method of financing the expenditures. Dr. Geiger described alternative financing methods such as Certificates of Participation, bonding and leasing, all of which are to be further discussed by the School Committee and scenarios presented. He also suggested using funds from the Town's cash reserve. Mr. White said that short term borrowing could he investigated and that the Certificate of Participation concept car be explored. Mr. Dailey suggested that the maintenance requests could be put into a maintenance account, rather than combining them with the computer program request. He questioned placing maintenance item requests under Capital . Mr. Marshall said he was predisposed to be supportive of the Capital requests for maintenance but advised the School Committee to be frank at Town Meeting about maintenance items not attended to in the past. Regarding computer equipment, he saw the need for a selling ob and provision of information as to precisely what is needed. He advised that the equipment be requested in three phases , rather than all in ...� FY90. Mr. Eddison suggested that the Capital Article be split into its two elements. He expressed his high regard for the School Committee and the hard work done by its members. Mr. Pewman thanked the Selectmen for their helpful comments. He noted that after FY90, maintenance items would be included in the Operating Budget, HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE Co-Chairman Rene Cochin and Robert Cushman, members of the Human Services Committee, and Steven Baran, Human Services Coordinator, met with the Board for discussion of the Committee's requests for funding for various provider agencies. Mr. Cushman said that his Committee's procedures in preparation of its recommendations had been the same as in previous years, in regard to review and recommendations on funding requests from Senior Health/Independent Living Monitor Program, CMARC, Cooperative Elder Services, RePlace, and the Council on Aging. Mrs. Smith complimented the Committee on its continued good work as represented by the written presentation. Mrs. Cochin referred to the decline in federal and state funding and the resultant decrease in services. She saw the Town as the first level for support and an increased pressure on it to meet needs that were previously met in other ways. She spoke of the loss of Mystic ..� Valley Mental Health Center as an example. Selectmen's Meeting -5- February 6, 1989 COOPERATIVE ELDER SERVICES CESI , which operates a variety of programs for older citizens of Lexington, is requesting 3,500, an increase of x'500.00. Nor. White explained that since appropriated funds had not been completely expended by CESI , he was recommending no increase. The Manager suggested an updated "Needs Assessment" to define services provided and what others are needed and arriving at decisions based on the study. Mr. Marshall felt that that process would eliminate the opportunity for people to come to the Town with unfulfilled needs not previously known and was in favor of allowing for the flexibility of the advocacy process. He suggested that the Board focus on the larger items presented i .e. RePlace and CoA. Mrs. Smith said she had no problem with the smaller requests and the Board generally agreed to go along with the Human Service's recommendations on them. REPLACE Mrs. Smith noted the importance of the RePlace youth counselling program which provides a unique service. She raised the question of whether RePlace can be successful enough in fund raising to compensate for the decrease in state funding. The Human Services Committee is recommending an appropriation of $73,000, a decrease of $500.00. Mrs. Cochin brought up the role of RePlace in the schools and noted that Mr. Baran has been working with its Executive Director of the agency on that matter. Dr. Geiger expressed the interest of the School System and suggested that money could be reallocated to allow RePlace a legitimate role in the schools . Mrs. Smith felt that the Town should work with RePlace and supported the Human Services recommendation. She advised as much dialogue and cooperation as possible. Mr. Blount, Executive Director, referred to a Child Abuse Prevention Program (Mass/CAPP) on which he is working with the Schools. A report on "Fund Raising by RePlace in the Private Sector" was noted and the agency's efforts were lauded. RePlace has raised $26,000 thus far in FY89. COUNCIL ON AGING Terrence Gent, Chairman, Dorothy Bogg i a, member of the Council on Aging, and Linda Crew Vine, CoA Director, were present for review of the Council 's budget proposal , totalling $118,301. Mr. Gent outlined issues important to the CoA: over 60 population growth; CoA budget growth; Sr. Center approaching capacity; program growth objective external to Sr. Center; and the Town' s level of spending per resident over 60. Also reviewed were charts showing "Population Trends by Age Cohort" and a breakdown of the FY90 budget of $666,5897, 18% of which is Town funded. .•-� Other budget related charts included "Comprehensive Budget by Category" , allocation of Town Appropriated Fund, FY90, a history of the use of Town funds since FY87, "Sr. Center El pctri ca l Use Rate" , and "Town Appropriation per Resident 60±" . It was noted that dollars per 60+ residents had decreased each year since FY88. ‘ 9 r 1 -fl- Costs -=or heating of the Sr. Center were discussed. The Manager referred to ongoing improvements in this area at the Center which should result in savings when completed and said he had based his recommendation Tor '1 ,000 less than was requested for electricity. He added that if necessary, a Reserve Fund transfer could be made. Board members agreed that the $1,000 should remain in that item, as requested by the CoA. It was the sense of the meeting to support the total Council on Aging request of S118,301 . WARRANT 1989 ATM Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to sign the Warrant for the 1989 Annual Town Meeting, to begin with the Town Election on March 6, 1989. CROSSWALK SAFETY Mr. White noted a map of Lexington Center which showed every existing crosswalk and he reported on procedures to identify a course of action regarding pedestrian safety in the Center. All crosswalks are to be examined as to the appropriateness of location and reports concerning channelization and street lighting in the Center will be developed. After review of all information, the Selectmen will refer the matter to the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for recommendations. The Manager stressed the importance of working with the Chamber of Commerce on public education to promote pedestrian safety. He noted that the Police Department has participated by giving educational programs on safety, and by stepped up enforcement of crosswalk and parking laws. Mr. White plans to submit a formal plan to the Board at its next meeting. Mr. Marshall felt that positive methods to improve traffic safety must he used i .e. larger fines for violations . He asked if there is a reasonable output quota on enforcement and whether it has been considered to appoint one person specifically responsible for parking meter and jaywalking fines . Mrs. Smith referred to the issue of education of pedestrians regarding their apparent lack of caution and urged that the street lighting issue, relative to safety, he looked at. EXECUTIVE SESSION Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5 - 0, Mrs. Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Eddison, Mr. Dailey, Mr. McSweeney, to go into Executive Session for discussion of matters of litigation, with no intent to resume open session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 11:15 p.m. A true record, Attest: 44(M4( ' (— Marion H. Snow Executive Clerk ,,, i I:71- 81 SELECTMEN'S MEETING Ansi February 13, 1989 '�� O'd A regular meeting of the Board of Sel ect i n was held on Monday, R hruary 13 , 1c89, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Edd i son, Mr. Dailey, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel ; Ms. Radway, Asst. to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. PUBLIC HEARING, EDISON/N.E. TEL. , IVAN STREET Mrs. Smith opened a public hearing on the petitions of Roston Edison Company and New England Telephone Company for permission to place an anchor guy on Ivan Street. The notice of the hearing was read by the Chairman. Edward Chisholm, representing the Edison Company, and Robert Boudreau, of New England Telephone Company explained the need for the installation to stabilize the end pole on Ivan Street. Mrs. Smith read the recommendations of the Director of Public Works that the request be granted. In answer to Mr. McSweeney, Mr. Chisholm reported that the anchor guy would not cause an obstruction to residents. There being no other questions or comments, Mrs. Smith declared the hearing closed. �•-• Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition, plan and orders of the New England Telephone Company and Boston Edison Company to place an anchor guy on Ivan Street on the westerly side approximately 250' off Eldred Street, at existing pole 29/29/. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, SZARKA Frederick Szarka, Acting Supt. , Minuteman National Historic Park, was present for a second formal briefing on the Park's Draft Management Plan. He noted that the Park Service was not quite on schedule with planning procedures but was closing in on the goal . He reported that Phase three, regarding relocation of Rte. 2A and Old Mass. Avenue, will be subject of further studies. The Park Service will continue to meet with the area residents as the studies progress. Mr. Szarka referred to the November 1, 1988 response by Lexington and said that he had asked for the meeting so as to verify his understanding of the comments presented and to describe plans evolving as a result of the comments. Lauren McKean and Bob Holzheimer, also of the Park Service attended. Mr. Holzheimer distributed a revised planning schedule showing May, 1989 as the date for Final plan approval . He said that a number of concerns had been expressed by neighboring towns and area residents. The Park Service has tried to address those concerns in the revised plan, and will continue to work with the communities on plans for relocation of roads. Regarding the October 31 comments of the Planning Board, the Park Service concurs with Items 1 through 11 and will seek to address the concerns listed. On Item 12, the Park Service will seek further direction from the Town and is open to discussion of the 3--5 acre N.P.S. parcel near Rte. 128. _2_ With regard to Item 13, possible inclusion of the Lexington Green, the N.P.S. i s very interested in the development of a cooperative agreement with the Town so as to make it part of a visitor's experience at the Park and asked for guidance as to incorporating it in the draft plan. Mr. Szarka referred to the concerns of the Hayward Pond area residents over the N.P.S. original proposal to acquire residential property at the perimeter of the Park. He said that there may be interest in acquisition of some area properties, other than Hayward Pond, and would want to pursue the concept with the Town. The land acquisition issue will be the subject of further study in the future but the Hayward Pond area will not be cited for acquisition in the Park Service's recommendations on the plan to Congress. Alternatives would be explored and the closure of Old Mass. Avenue and other accesses, sought. Roger Mello, 29 Hayward Avenue asked how firm the timetable projected by the N.P.S. was. Mr. Szarka felt that his recommendations on the draft plan should be pretty well lined up by May '89. Mr. Mello, referred to the ongoing uneasiness of the residents on the land acquisition issue, until the plan is finalized and asked for that assurance as quickly as possible. Mr. Eddison pointed out that the Town would not want it thought that closure of Old Mass. Avenue is a given and that discussions, negotiations and provision of alternative access would be required. Mr. Marshall referred to the lack of cooperation of the Park Service in the case of the plans for the widening of Marrett Road which he felt could affect the level of the Town's cooperation in this situation. He asked that a clear statement that plans for acquisition of the Hayward Pond residential land are dropped before proceeding with any negotiations. Mrs. Smith summarized major points brought out as 1) no residential land is to be taken by the Park Service, and 2) the Town would be willing to discuss possible closure of Old Mass. Avenue with the provision for alternative accesses. Regarding the Sheraton/Lexington Motor Inn proposal for expansion, Mr. Szarka said that the Park Service does not oppose it, but would do nothing to encourage it. He felt that it would have very little impact on the Park. Mr. Marshall pointed out the increase in Marrett Road traffic from the hotel expansion and felt the M.P.S. should not take a neutral stand. Mr. Szarka felt that the traffic patterns now proposed by the Sheraton would result in increased safety. Mr. Dailey, with reference to the concerns of the Hayward Pond residents, said that it must be unsettling to hear of future studies on land acquisition, which would indicate that no definite decision regarding their land had been made. He urged the Park Service to make a final statement now that the plan would not include such acquisitions. Mrs . Smith noted that in recent months , the Park Service has been sensitive to the views and concerns of the communities and expressed her hope that it would continue. Selectmen's Meeting -3- February 13, 1989 CAPITAL BUDGET/IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM 0m, Mr. White submitted to the Board the Town's first comprehensive capital budget and 5-year capital improvements program for FY9O-FY95, a component of his Proposed Program Budget. He thanked the Selectmen for their acceptance of the new process and expressed his appreciation for -he support of t!"--,. Pl lnni rig Ecard and Planning Director in the preparation of the program. The Manager said that the program was developed in anticipation of a different financial climate and is timely, as the Town tries to grapple with some of the problems under Proposition 2r. In noting the tremendous effort required to create the first capital budget document, he thanked Deborah Radway, Candy McLaughlin, Robert Bowyer, Linda Coburn, and Joseph Marino for their significant assistance. He reviewed the five areas into which the capital budget is divided: Definition of a Capital Improvement Policies that Underlie the capital improvements program FY90 Project Description FY90-95 capital improvement program requests. Fiscal analysis of past and future capital expenditures. Ms. Radway outlined the sections on definition, criteria and goals, and Mr. Bowyer reviewed FY90=95 improvement program requests and fiscal analysis of past and future capital expenditures. He provided, on slides, information of program categories, program descriptions and ,�,.. program plans. Ms. McLaughlin summarized the need for anticipation of future changes in funding responsibilities that towns will continue to face under Proposition 21 and stressed the importance for planning ahead so that the quality of level of municipal services can be maintained. A slide entitled "Steps in Development of a Capital Improvements Program" was shown and reviewed. Mrs. Smith complimented the Manager on the provision of a wonderful planning tool which has long been needed. Mr. Eddison agreed that the new budget program was highly commendable. He questioned the use of the terms "criteria" and "priorities" . Mr. Marshall felt that some of the criteria listed would be more appropriately termed categories of projects or labels. All members of the Board commended the Town Manager for his presentation. Mr. Marshall urged that thought be given to preparation for a balance sheet showing town assets. Mr. White noted that very few municipalities have done so but that it is one of his goals. Mrs. Smith said she saw the need under this process for all departments to prepare a 5-year program now in order not to have their needs left out of the process. RECYCLING Richard Spiers, Director of Public Works, was present to report on features of the recycling program. He spoke of a questionnaire card to be distributed that week and the next to residents who are not participating, to find out why, and to encourage future participation. _ i _4.. He will provide information on the participation rate of condominium owners , recently included in the program. A letter will be sent to the Housing Authority asking for the ccoperation of L.H.A. Pipl ogees in assisting the elderly to participate. Mr. Dailey advised an easy approach with the elderly who wish to comply, but who may be physically unable. Mr. Marshall suggested that Youth Groups be asked to assist the elderly on a volunteer basis. MINUTES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of Selectmen' s meetings on January 23, and January 25, 1989. Mr. Marshall abstained from voting on the minutes due to his absence from both meetings. CONSENT AGENDA ABATEMENTS, WATER/SEWER Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve abatement of Water Charges in the total amount of $4,540.25; of Sewer Charges in the total amount of $4,392.00, and of Demand Charges in the amount of $1.00. COMMITMENT, WATER/SEWER DEMAND CHARGES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve commitment of charges as follows: Water Charges , final bills, December $1,523.94 Sewer Charges , final bills, December $1,526.28 Water Charges , final bills , January $1 ,348.24 Sewer Charges, final bills, January $1,318.07 Water Charges , Cycle 9, February $59,504.80 CONSEPVATION RESTRICTION Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve a Conservation Restriction for Lot 17, Pheasant Brook, located at 24 Solomon Pierce Road. FREDERICKSON ARTICLE Mrs. Smith noted an article which had appeared in "Fine Homebuilding" by Steven Frederickson, Building Commissioner. The Board commended Mr. Frederickson for his extremely articulate and well written piece. DAC/LCC MEETING, CENTER GUIDELINES It was noted that a joint Design Advisory Committee/Lexington Center Committee mPeti na will be held in Fstabrook Nall on February 14, at 8:00 p.m. for presentation by David Dixon Associates of draft Guidelines for Lexington Center Development. The Guidelines will be available for review by the end of February. NEW EMPLOYEES Mr. White reported on his recent appointments of Robert Ebersole as r..► Revenue Officer, and David Turocy, as Superintendent of Highway and Drains , to begin work on March 6th. 62 /6 0■11. Selectmen' s Meeting -5- February 13, 1989 EXECUTIVE SESSION Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5 - 0 by roll call vote, Mrs . Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Edd i sore, Mr. Dailey, Mr. McSweeney, to (:0 into `:.'<ecuti ve Ses s i crn r discussion of matters of litigation, with no intent to resume open session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 10:36 p.m. A true record, Attest: fl . 4 anion H. Snow Executive Clerk 09/ 7 SELECTMEN'S MEETING February 41' 27, 1989 A regular meeting of the Board of Selector n was held on Monday, February 27, 1'Pg , in the e1 ectmpn' s Meeting Pam, Fawn Office Building, at 7:15 p.m. Chairman Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Fddi son, Mr. Dailey, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel ; Ms. Radway, Assistant to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. Members of the Planning Board, LexHAB, and the Lexington Housing Authority met with the Board for review of the draft Guidelines for k Development of Affordable Housing, revised by the Planning Board to reflect views expressed at the Selectmen's Meeting on January 9. Also to be considered was a draft document in which the Guidelines had been applied to development of the Meaghervi l l e/P i ne Meadows sites. Approval of the two documents, conditional upon public input at a March Public Information Meeting, was requested. Differing opinions were expressed on the concept of having all rental units in a development or whether some ownership units should be included. Board members generally agreed that "all rental " was to be preferred. In Item #1 , the Planning Roard proposes that three levels of housing might he included in a development: "affordable" , market rate, and some below market rate but above the limits for "affordable" . The concept of including middle price level housing was questioned. It was also agreed that Item #1 should be revised with respect to the statement that "it is preferred that all of the housing (on publicly awned sites be "affordable". The Planning Board left the meeting at that time because of a conflicting appointment. LexHAB and the Housing Authority remained for resumption of the discussion following other scheduled appointments with the Selectmen. PUBLIC HEARING, BOSTON EDI SON, LOWELL STREET The Chairman opened a Public Nearing on the petition of the Boston Edison Company for installation of conduit in Lowell Street. Mr. Mal i s, representing the Edison Company, explained that the work was necessary to provide electric service to #188 and #196 Lowell Street. Mrs. Smith read the recommendations of Richard Spiers, DPW Director, in favor of approval of the petition. There being no further comments, the hearing was declared closed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition of Edward H. Linde and Robert B. Swett, Jr. , Trus tees of the 191 Spring Street Trust, for permission and license for the storage of automobile gasoline in automobile gasoline tanks for 290 automobiles (maximum amount, 5,800 gallons) in the in-building garage of Building #1 at 191 Spring Street; and in automobile gasoline tanks for 438 automobiles (maximum amount, 8,760 gallons) in the in-building garage of nui l di ng No. 2 at 191 Spring Street. -2- Approval of +he license was given subject to the following conditions: A Conti naencv plan is to he in place in the event there is gasoline spillage on the property; In the event that any such spill should occur, proper notification to the Department of Environmental Duality Engineering must be made; All Fire Department and DFOE regulations must be complied with in dealing with the storage of gasoline. MINUTES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of Selectmen' s Meetings on February 6, 1989 and February 13, 1989. It was noted that the Executive Session minutes for those dates will be forthcoming. HEAVY EQUIPMENT NOISE SUBCOMMITTEE, CHARGE Mrs . Smith referred to the request by the South Lexington Civic Association that the Board address the problem of noise from heavy construction Pqu i pment, and explore the possibility of a by-law to regulate allowed hours of operation. As a first step in the formation of a study committee for review of this matter, Mrs. Smith had drafted a Charge outlining the committee's areas of responsibility concluding with submission of a report to the Selectmen no l atPr than December 15, 1989. If the committee's recommendations indicate that a By-Law change is needed, the Selectmen would bring such a proposal to the 1990 Town Meeting. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the Charge to +he Selectmen's Heavy Equipment Noise Tommittee, as presented. AFFfPDARLF HOUSTN( iif lTfF!_TN!VS iscuss on wito members of LexHAB and the Housing Authority resumed on the draft Guidelines for the Development of Affordable Housing on Vacant Public Sites, as applied to the Meaghervi l l e/Pi ne Meadows site. In discussion of Item #5, Mr. Derby, LexHAB Chairman, expressed doubt that Federal and State funding could be obtained for a housing development, which would indicate that Lexington may have to develop its own financing. Mr. Spencer, Housing Authority Chairman, felt that the Housing Partnership people should be brought in in any event to show an effort to seek outside assistance despite the pessimistic outlook, to create a better public position. It was agreed that Item #5 needed clarification as to its intent. Mr. Derby referred to Item #6, regarding the ration of 3 and 4-bedroom units and reported that LexHAB and had no requests for units of that size. Mr. Spencer added that the Housing Authority had had very few such request and would prefer a significant number of 3-bedroom units . P. McSweeney again stated his belief that some ownership units should be included for the benefit of some Town employees who are striving to purchase homes. Further discussion of the drafts, to be again revised by the Planning Roard, was scheduled for March 6th at 7:30 p.m. Selectmen's Meeting -3- February 77, 1989 Tt was agreed that LexHAR may provide a Liaison to meet with the Housing Financing Committee, to avoid duplication of the Committee's efforts by LexHAR. CROSSWALKS Chief Furdon and Captain Kilmartin of the Police Department, Frank Fields , Town Engineer, and Peter Chalpin, Asst. Town Engineer, met with the Board for review of Mr. Chalpin's report on the number, need, location, and visibility of Center crosswalks and warning devices, to explore the concept of channel i zati on of traffic at the entrances to the Center. Mr. Chalpin reported on the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee that the crosswalk at Clarke Street be relocated to in front of the Library to connect witil Buckman Tavern. Mr. Chalpin's report stated that any improvements in pedestrian safety will largely depend on extensive and continuing traffic education programs . He reviewed points to be stressed in these programs. Mr. White asked the Board for authority to go forward with the development of plans for improvements as listed i n Mr. Chalpin's report, working with the Traffic Safety Committee, Lexington Center Committee, the Police fepa rtment and the Chamber of Commerce. After Selectmen approval , these plans would hP implemented on a trial basis to measure their effectiveness . Mr. Fddi son suggested that zebra striping he used at all Center crosswalks for better visibility and that signs at the roadside or other warning devices be considered for crosswalks with no barrel devices preceding them. Mrs. Smith asked about the time frame for responses on the plans from the agencies to be involved, noting the need for quick action on the critical issue. Mr. White felt that his recommendations could be developed by the ()rid of march . Mrs. Smith urged enlisting help from the School system to educate walkers to use caution, not only drivers. Chief Furdon reported that for some time, in an effort to decrease accidents, his Department's priorities in the Center had been focussed on enforcement of crosswalk, parking, and IU- turn regulations. Pedestrian, as well as motorist crosswalk violations , is a matter of concern to Center Officers but, he noted, ticketing jaywalkers does not appear to be workable in the Center. He referred to Police Pedestrian Safety Programs being presented in the grammar schools. Captain Kilmartin gave a rundown on Police staffing in the Center. He noted the distractions to drivers travelling through Town, the apparent over confidence of pedestrians , and the fact that parked cars obstruct both walkers and motorists as factors in the increase of crosswalk accidents. Mr. Marshall said he saw need for education of adults in pedestrian safety noting the few young children he sees crossing Mass. Avenue. He was strongly in favor of ticketing jaywalkers as a deterrent to jaywalking, which seems to work in other cities and towns. Mr. White thanked Chief Furdon, Captain Kilmartin and the Engineering staff for the information provided and said that he would work with the other committees and agencies toward development of plans to present to the Board. V 4?'( w 4 r MAPC/CAMBRIDGE RFSERVOTR WATERSHED COMMITTEE Mrs . Smith referred to the request of MAPC for representation from area towns on an Advisory Committee on the Cambridge Reservoir Watershed to deal Wth the adverse impact of existing and proposed development. She noted her work with the Mass. Water Resources Authority and asked to represent the Board on the Committee. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 - 0, with Mrs. Smith abstaining, to designate Jacquelyn R. Smith as Lexington 's representative on the Cambridge Peservoir Watershed Advisory Committee. DEQE WATER EMERGENCY ORDER A memorandum to the Lexington Water Department from the DEQE Division of Water Supply containing a Declaration of State of Water Supply Emergency and order was noted. Mr. White informed the Board of a DEQE requirement that Lexington, as a MWRA/MDC user, must submit a draft plan for water conservation to assist in bringing to an end the state of water supply emergency. The Manager felt that severe restrictions may not be necessary in 1989, but that if the emergency continues , water usage may have to be significantly lowered. A draft plan will he submitted to the Board before it is sent to the DEQE and MWRA at the end of March. PROTECTION OF THE CAMBRIDGE WATER SUPPLY Mr. Eddison reported that he had been asked to appear at a hearing in Boston in support of a bill to include the Cambridge water supply in the proposed Watershed Protection Act. HQ said he would like to he able %,w to speak, not only for himself hut for the Board in supporting the legislation. Information on the proposed bill to protect the drinking water supply of many metropolitan communities, hut not that of Cambridge, had been received from Senator Michael Barrett and distributed to the Board. Mr. Edd i sun felt treat, it would be in Lexington ' s interest, both environmentally and politically, to support Cambridge in the effort and would also be consistent with any steps to be taken in response to the DEQE Declaration of State of Water Supply Emergency. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to support the legislation which would include Cambridge in the Watershed Protection Act. APPOINTMENT, FENCE VIEWERS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to reappoint Martin A. Gilman, 20 Captain Parker Arms, #21 , and William H. Sullivan, 14 Milk Street, as Fence Viewers, for terms to expire on September 30, 1989. APPOINTMENT, HUMAN SERVICES COMM ITTEF Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Ann W. Irving, 54 Spring Street, to the Human Services Committee to fill the unexpired term of Marion P. Shepp to September 30, 1990. MARCH MEETING SCHEDULE It was agreed that meetings of the Board will be posted cnr March 6, March 13, March 70, March 27 and March 29. �.1 Selectmen 's Meeting -5- February 27, 1989 VOTECH LEGISLATION Mrs. Smith noted that Nyles Barnert, Lexington 's representative on the Minuteman Tech School Committee, had requested the Board' s views on three bil's: A. 5-1508 allowing regional assessments to be added to tax caps; B. S-740 allowing the option of regions joining the State's Health Insurance Program C. S-739 allowing one percentage or dollar sharing of health insurance premium costs. Mr. Marshall saw no problem with supporting F. and C. , which have been endorsed by the mass. Municipal Fiscal Policy Committee, but said he would prefer not to support Bill A. since VoTech shares the financial problems of all Town agencies and should expect to work within the system to get along under Proposition 21. Regarding the request to the General Court that funding needed to implement Ch. 730 aid be included in the FY90 budget plan, Mr. Marshall will explore Mass. Municipal 's view before the Board comes to a decision on its position. MBTA FARE INCREASE Mr. Dailey referred to the proposed increase in MBTA fares for rapid transit, central subway, and commuter rail zone lA to enhance farebox revenue. He noted that it would be the first increase since �••• 1981 and that great improvements to the system had been made since that time. He felt sure that the !ARTA Advisory Board will support the increase and asked that the Board indicate its support as well . Mr. Dailey saw the change as a modest effort to keep assessments down while not significantly impacting the level of ridership. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to support to increase in fare structures , as proposed by the Mass. Bay Transportation Authority. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS TO TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMITTEE Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to refer the following traffic related requests to the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for review and recommendation: Wood Street traffic safety improvements , as requested by Mr. Kastarlak, Mr. LaPointe, Mr. Heywood Traffic signs on Moon Hill Road, as requested by Eric T. Clarke CNF DAY LIQUOR LICENSES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the following applications for One Day Liquor Licenses: St. Bri gi d's Parish, March 18, 1989 for a St. Patrick's Party W.R. Grace Company, RAEDACC, March 2, 1989 for a Retirement Party swift PROCLAMATION, BOSTON UN I VEP S T TY Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to proclaim March 13, 1989 as Boston University Sesquicentennial Day, in recognition of its founding in 1839. 1),?' _6_ RECREATION COMMITTEE, OPENING DAY PARADE Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request of the Recreation Director, Joan Halverson, for permission to conduct a Parade and Opening Day Ceremony on Saturday, April 22, 1989, beginning at 9:30 a.m. The Ceremony will be held at the Little League Field. ABATEMENTS, WATER SEWER, DEMAND CHARGES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the abatement of Water Charges in the amount of $949.30; Sewer Charges in the amount of $841.32; and Demand Charge in the amount of $55.00. LOCAL AID Mr. White referred to a letter from Sheila Cheimets, Executive Director of the Mass. Municipal Association, in which she outlined the implications to cities and towns of the $100 million cut in Local Aid, recommended by the House Ways and Means Committee. Ms. Cheimets requested that Lexington Selectmen and Town staff participate in a MMA lobbying day on March 1st to attempt to impress upon the Legislators how seriously the proposed reduction would affect cities and towns if it is passed. Included in the MMA mailing was the MMA's analysis of the House Ways and Means Budget which stated that Lexington' s Lottery Line decrease will amount to $78,835, and listed other categorical local grant programs which have been cut from FY89 levels. The Manager asked the Board to support the MMA Call to Action attending the March 1st Lobbying Day. Mrs. Smith, Mr. Eddison and Mr. McSweeney planned to participate and will leave from the Town Hall at 10:15 a.m. , \FPSAiLLES SIDEWALK DINING Mr. White informed the Board of the request of Isaac Drdy, President of Versailles Restaurant for permission to resume outdoor dining on the sidewalk in front of his establishment. Mr. White recommended that he be allowed to do so, at a rental fee of $200.00 subject to the following conditions: . Furniture out no earlier than 11:00 a.m. and no party to be served after 11:00 p.m. F• our to five tables and umbrellas and 16 to 20 chairs. . Serving of meals, coffee, dessert and alcoholic beverages. For every seat in the outdoor cafe, the seating in the dining room must be decreased by one. . Subdued colors are to be used. . Tables and chairs must be set up so as not to obstruct pedestrian traffic. . Rental cost of $200.00/month. . Insurance for liquor and liability of $1,000,000. . Tables should be cleared immediately when unoccupied. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request of Isaac Dray for use of the sidewalk i n front of 1777 Mass. Avenue, from May 1 to September 30, 1989, subject to conditions as wise, listed above. Selectmen's Meeting February 27, 1989 WARRANT ARTICLE ASSIGNMENTS Mr. White referred to a draft listing of Selectmen's Article Assignments , which had been distributed to Board members and asked that be told el any changes which might be desired. T o objections were raised regarding the allocation of Articles to he presented. LEXINGTON CAB COMPANY Mr. Marshall reported on examples of unsatisfactory service by the Lexington Cab Company in the recent past and asked Town Counsel to explore the grounds needed to rescind the company' s license to operate in the Town. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:57 p.m. . /1/ A true record, Attest: Marion H. Snow Executive Clerk