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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1989-10-BOS-min dhi _ SELECTMEN'S MEETING d 101 October 2, 1989 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, October 2, 1989, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Eddison, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel ; Ms. Radway, Asst. to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. Mr. Dailey joined the meeting later in the evening. Members of LexHAB were also in attendance, for discussion of possible land purchase in Executive Session. EXECUTIVE SESSION Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 - O by roll call vote, Mrs. Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Eddison, Mr. McSweeney, to go into Executive Session for discussion of possible land acquisition, the disclosure of which might prove to be detrimental to negotiations , and with the intent to resume open session. Open session was resumed at 8:12 p.m. MIDDLESEX COUNTY HOSPITAL LAND Mr. McSweeney introduced Paul McGinley of McGinley, Hart & Associates , land-use consultants, who had been engaged by the Land Use Committee of the Middlesex County Advisory Board to give recommendations ''""t on the re--use of surplus County land, including a 60-acre parcel at the Lexington/Waltham line. Mr. McGinley, in presentation of the firm's interim report, displayed slides showing the area being studied, the existing buildings, accesses , and uses on surrounding land in Lexington and Waltham. He explained that the purpose of the presentation was to show what his firm had accomplished to date on the report, which he estimated to be about half completed, and to gain input from the Town and interested citizens to be included in the process before proceeding further in the formulation of recommendations. Tom Braun, of McGinley, Hart described existing uses in the Middlesex County Hospital complex, and pointed out wet areas on the site. He noted that the City of Waltham has been allowed to construct a large soccer field on the Lexington portion of the site. Carol Brabley of Brabley & Associates, Inc. gave an assessment of the real estate situation and forces affecting the property. She reported that residential , rather than industrial or office use had been determined to be the best and highest use of the land. Mr. McGinley asked for questions and input from the Board and those in the audience. He noted that in the development of recommendations on re-use of the land, decision could be reached that "no build" would be the best option. Elizabeth Flynn, 310 Concord Avenue, asked what type of housing might be considered. Mr. McGinley said that those details would be addressed much further along in the report, adding that it could be single-family, cluster, low/moderate income, or housing developed under the Comprehensive Permit, process. Marian Reilly, 25 Walnut Street, asked for assurance that any such plans would not be developed without input, at all stages, from Town agencies and area residents. She stressed the need and Lexington 's efforts toward provision of affordable housing. Joy Buchfirer,Buchfirer, 237 Worthen Road East, asked an estimate of the time frame between now and final decisions on land use by the County Commissioners. Mr. McGinley said that the report should be completed in 4 or 5 weeks , and would then be used by the Commissioners in coming to final decisions. Mr. McSweeney thanked the consultants on behalf of the Land Use Committee and the Middlesex County Advisory Board, and urged those in attendance to submit comments and suggestions to him, for transmittal to the consultant. Mr. McGinley noted that a similar meeting was scheduled for the next week in Waltham and that neighborhood groups and Town agencies wishing to meet with him and his associates should contact him. He also plans future meetings with the MCAB Land Use Committee. MINUTES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve as presented the minutes of the Selectmen' s Meeting on September 18, 1989. PESIGNATION, BRIDGE CHARITABLE FUND Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the resignation of John R. Packard as Trustee of the Bridge Charitable Fund, effective as of January 1, 1990. LIAISON, PINE MEADOWS SITE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the resignation of Gerri Weathers as the Fair Housing Committee's Liaison on the Pine Meadows Site Development Committee, and to appoint Robert L. Pressman as her replacement. ANNUAL APPOINTMENTS ARTS COUNCIL Relative to action on annual appointments of the Arts Council , Mr. Eddison noted the request of Kerry Brandin, Chairman, that appointments to the Council be made effective as of the first of November each year to allow continuity by experienced members in working with Grants to be awarded. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to change the date of annual appointments to the Lexington Ccuncil for the Arts from September 30, to November 1 , of each year. DESIGN ADVISORY COMMITTEE Mr. Eddison informed the Board of the request of members of the Design Advisory Committee that those with expiring terms who do not wish reappointment as regular members because of difficulties with attending meetings , be appointed as Associate Members , in order to continue their affiliation with the Committee. He noted the benefits of keeping these interested citizens as a resource and it was agreed that Robert Bradley, Don Olson and others in the future, will be appointed as Associate Members. PERSONNEL ADVISORY BOARD Mr. White gave his recommendation that the Personnel Advisory Board membership be expanded to eight, since two qualified applicants have offered their services. �.•.► Selectmen's Meeting -3- October 2, 1989 He reported that the P.A.B. is in accord with the suggestion and submitted the name of Janet Perry, as well as Vahe DerManuel i an, for appointment. TRAFFIC SAFETY ADVISORY COMMITTEE The Town Manager referred to previous discussion regarding reorganization of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee and the ouestion of whether it is appropriate for a Town employee to act as Chairman. He asked that the Board give thought to the matter. The Board had no objection to asking the T.S.A.C. to reorganize and review its Charge and structure. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMITTEES/BOARDS/COMMISSIOFS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint the following, for terms effective as of September 30, 1989: CAMEL LEGACY TRUST Leona W. Martin 19 Thoreau Road Elizabeth M. Flynn 310 Concord Ave. CONDOMINIUM CONVERSION BOARD Thomas Gouzoule 126 Emerson Gardens • DESIGN ADVISORY COMMITTht, John Frey Chairman 1133 Mass. Avenue Elizabeth Whitman 5 Hancock Ave. Walter Pierce 16 Trotting Horse Drive Thomas Coffman 31 Lincoln Street Albert Huang 82 Pleasant Street *Kerry Brandin 117 Shade Street *Richard Bechtel 16 Lake Street Don H. Olson, Assoc.Mmbr 30 Forest Street Robert Bradley, Assoc.Mmbr 15 Rockville Ave. FAIR HOUSING CCMr►irri n Gerri C. Weathers, Chrmn. 14 Drummer Boy Way Robert Pressman 22 Locust Ave. Leona Martin 19 Thoreau Rd. William T. Spencer 32 Hancock St. Vidya Bhatia 8 Nickerson Rd. Florence A. Baturin 11 Alcott Rd. James R. Brannon 380 Lowell St. Albert Huang 82 Pleasant St. Mary Haskell 6 Trotting Horse Drive Ernest Tsai 4 Thoreau Road HUMAN SERVICES CCMMIir1'r.r►, swift Robert Cushman 13 Smith Avenue Renee Cochin 7 Partridge Drive Seymour Mandel 7 Stedman Road *Dennis 4irakami 7 Longfellow Road PERSONNEL ADVISORY BOARD Kendall Wright 13 Woodland Road *Vahe 1Manuplian 18 Constitution Road **Janet M. Perry 16 Ellison Road 341D _4.. POLICE MANUAL POLICY COMMITith William J. Dailey, J r. 1 Bushnell Drive William C. Hays 39 Locust Ave. usw Gerald L. McLeod 71 Spring Street Edith E. Flynn 32 Watertown St. Chief Paul Furdon Lex. Police Dept. TCN REPORT COMMximt Robert Morrison, Churn 73 Blake Road Ruth Karpinski 24 Wyman Rd. Winifred Friedman 176 Grove Street Stephen W. Wade 524 Concord Ave. Marsha Baker 46 Burlington S t. Fred Wischhusen 39 Peacock Farm Road *Gordon Hawes 76 Meriam St. *Robert Halfman 75 Outlook Drive TRAFFIC SAr t;Tf ADVISORY Calvinmh Peter M. Chalpin Engineering Dept. Eric T. Clarke 29 Moon Hill Road Myla Kabat-Zinn 58 Oak Street William E. Nix 153 Grove St. Paul E. Furdon Chief of Police Capt. James Kilmartin Lex. Police Dept. Robert A. Bowyer, Planning Robert Trask 217 Waltham St. WASTE MANAGEMENT TASK FORCE Regina Blaber 27 Rangeway FENCE CE Martin Gilman 20 Captain Parker Arms Apt. 20 William H. Sullivan 14 Milk Street TOWN CELEBRATIONS COMMIaTtE John Hayden 4 Davis Road LEXINGTON COUNCIL FORME ARTS Effective Date Nov. 1, 1989 Eunice Alberts Nicholson 7 Sherburne Road *Vivian Berman 11 Barberry Road *Donald Langosy 16 Taft Avenue *Denotes New Appointment CROSSWALK OBSERVANCE WEEK Mr. White reported on the request of the Lexington Center Committee that the week of October 14 through October 21 be acknowledged as "Crosswalk Observance Week". In conjunction, and with the support of the Chamber of Commerce, flyers and bulletins publicizing the emphasis on crosswalk observance will be distributed throughout the Town. The „r..► Manager noted that letters signed by Mrs. Smith and Chamber President Barsamian informing CEO's of Lexington firm's and elected officials in surrounding towns of the project and encouraging their cooperation. Selectmen's Meeting -5- October 2, 1989 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to proclaim the week of October 14 through October 21 , 1989, as "Crosswalk Observance Week". A -proclamation to this effect will be prepared by the Town Manager for signature of the Board on October 16. AMBULANCE ABATEMENTS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the abatement of 17 ambulance service charges in the total amount of $703.00 balances due after Medicaid reimbursements. Upon motion dulyade Ind it was voted to adjourn at 10:00 p.m. A true record, Attest: C1( / Marion H. Snow Executive Clerk sift 1194- P,P 01111.1i SELECTMEN'S MEETING October 16, 1989 Oi A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, October 16, 1989 , in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Eddison, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel ; Ms. Radway, Asst. to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. Mr. Dailey joined the meeting later in the evening. PUBLIC HEARING, GAS STORAGE, SHELL Mrs. Smith opened the public hearing on the application of Shell Oil Company for permission to increase underground gasoline tank capacity at the Shell Service Station, 300 Woburn Street. Carlos Davis of Ayoub Engineering, representing Shell Oil Company, submitted proof of the mailing of notices to abuttors and pointed out on a plan locations for the proposed replacement of tanks with large fiberglass units. He noted that the increased tank size will allow for less frequent deliveries and that the fiberglass construction of the tanks will help to protect the environment from possible leaks. Mrs. Smith referred to a memo received from George Smith, Health Director which recommended certain conditions to be factored into the approval , if granted. Pam There being no further comments, the Chairman declared the hearing to be closed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application, on behalf of the Shell Oil Company, 400 Blue Hill Drive, Westwood, MA, for permission and license to remove underground steel storage tanks to be replaced with fiberglass gasoline tanks with a capacity increased to 36,000 gallons; fiberglass waste oil tanks with capacity increased to 1,000 gallons; and fiberglass fuel oil tanks increased to a capacity of 1 ,000 gallons, at the Shell Service Station, 330 Woburn Street, Lexington. Permission was granted subject to on-site inspection of procedures by the Lexington Fire Department at the time the existing tanks are being removed, with plans for this operation to be coordinated with Chief Bergeron. The Lexington Health Department must also be notified of the date the removal work is to begin. If any evidence of leakage is observed, it will be necessary to implement a full cleanup as required by Town agencies and/or the Department of Environmental Quality Engineering. A copy of a memorandum dated September 19, 1989, from George A. Smith, Health Director, is attached for your guidance. Compliance with all conditions listed in Mr. Smith's memo will be required, including the preparation of a contingency plan to address any spill or leak that might occur during the removal process and/or ordinary use of gasoline pumps. omfa CHAPLAINS, L.P.D. Paul Furdon, Chief of Police, was present to present Police badges to three local clergymen who had agreed to serve the Department as Chaplains. Chief Furdon introduced Father Stephen Healy, of St. Brigid's Church; Reverend Brian Dixon, First Baptist Church; and Rabbi Cary 'tales, of Temple Isaiah, who expressed their appreciation for the honor of being asked to serve as Chaplains. 3J3 4 MINUTES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve as presen tes the minutes of the meetings of the Selectmen on September 25, 1989, and on October 2, 1989. The meeting of the Board in Executive Session on October 2, 1989, were approved as amended. CONSENT AGENDA ONE DAY LIQUOR LICENSE, K. of C. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to ratify the poll vote of October 6, 1989, approving the application of the Knights of Columbus, 177 Bedford Street, for One Day Liquor License on October 2, 1989, on the occasion of a Dinner Dance and meeting of Temple, Barker & Sloane. LEXINGTON MEMBERS, MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request of Louise A. Berry, Lexi noton Members of the Museum of Fine Arts , for permission to serve wine in Cary Memorial Hall et a lecture to be held on February 13, 1990 (snow date - February 15, 1990) . EXTENSION, SHERATON-LEXINGTON INN Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request of Kent Bruggeman for extension of operation under its Innkeeper Liquor License to 1 :00 a.m. on New Year's Eve. , December 31 , 1989. CONSERVATION RESTRICTIONS, KATAHDIN WOODS, BUTTERFIELD ROAD Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approVe a Imp Conservation Restriction to he granted to the Town by Barrie and Eileen Yates , of 3 Butterfield Road Lot 120, Map 38, and a Conservation Restriction to he granted to the Town by Katandin Woods Partners over lot 1C, Map 74. COMMITMENT OF WATER, SEWER, DEMAND CHARGES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the commitment of the following charges: September final bills $ 967.28 940.00 October Cycle 9 bills $ 3,997.9C $ 71 ,106.76 Street Opening Permit fees $ 375.00 ABATEMENTS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the abatement of the following: Water Charges totalling $1 ,158.15 Sewer Charges totalling $2,380.119 Demand Charges totalling $ 50.00 APPOINTMENTS, BOARD OF APPEALS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint John J. McWeenev as a member of the Board of Appeals for a term of office to expire on September 30, 1994• and to a o f tEdwinP hitt more, 15Somerset Road, as an ssociae Member of theoars of ppeais for a term of office to expire on September 30, 1990. 7,agif Selectmen' s Meeting _3_ October 16, 1989 APPOINTMENTS TO TOWN REPORT COMMITTEE Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Eleanor J. (Jane) King, Brookhaven at Lexington, Amherst - 30, and Anne R. Scigliano, 3 Augustus Road, as members of the Town Report Committee, for terms of office to expire on September 30, 1990. FEE STRUCTURE, POARD OF APPEALS The Roard reviewed proposed revisions to the fee schedule for the Poard of Appeals , last increased in 1981 , and compared the current fee structure with those in other communities. It was agreed that an increase was warranted at this time. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the fee scheduled as proposed by the Board of Appeals , as follows: Residential Non-Residential Variance $100.00 $200.00 Special Permit $100.00 $200.00 Appeal $100.00 $200.00 renewal $100.00 $200.00 Sign $100.00 $100.00 Special Permit with Site Plan $1,000 for projects up to Review (SPS) 10,000 sq. ft. + 10(t/sq.ft. o. in excess of 10,000 sq. ft. Comprehensive Permit $1,000 + $100/dwelling unit All applicants will continue to pay the charge for the legal notices . TAX CLASSIFICATION HEARING (ADJOURNED) Mrs. Smith opened the Adjourned Tax Classification Hearing and Information Session. Mr. White explained that the evening's procedures would not include decision on tax rate, because the State Dept. of revenue had not yet established Lexington's minimum residential factor. He asked that a short meeting be held on October 23rd at 6:00 p.m. , for the purpose of voting on the matter. Robert Leone, Robert Foster and Barclay Hayes , Board of Assessors , and Harald Scheid, Town Assessor, were in attendance to present information and supporting data on the Range of Possible 1990 Tax Rates . Mr. Leone referred to the revaluation of property as of January 1 , 1989, which had been accomplished this year and which makes determinations on the tax classification options extremely complex and difficult to understand. He reported that appreciated values have gone up 26.7% during the past three years , as of January 1, 1989. Mr. Leone noted that since there has been some softening of the real estate market during 1989, assessed market values of properties may not reflect the actual resale price at this time. He also noted that the level of changes in values was not uniform across the Town, and that some property owners could expect significant increases in their bills, with highest priced properties increasing the most and lowest price, the least. _a- Sheets entitled "Range of Possible 1990 Tax Rates" showing residential factors of 0.85E47 to 1.00000, with resultant tax rates and percentages of change for residential and business properties were reviewed. A "Summary of Value Increase by Property Class - Fiscal 1990 Reevaluation Program" showing average increases for various types of residential and commercial properties was discussed briefly. Robert Domnitz spoke in favor of a shift to a higher tax ratio for commercial properties and distributed information which showed a "Recap of Commercial P.E. Tax Levies" from 1982 to 1989 and the percentages of change in R. F. Tax on his home, his office condo, and Honeywell on Forbes Road. He felt that significant revenue was not being real i led by the Town by not taxing business properties to the maximum amount allowed, and that residents have shouldered disproportionate amounts of the tax burden. Mr. White referred to information and data prepared by Harald Sheid, who started his work as Assessor in the middle of the reevaluation process and asked that the excellent work he has done be acknowledged and that he be commended. Mrs . Smith thanked the Board of Assessors and Mr. Sheid for their fine presentations. The Hearing was adjourned to Monday, October 23, 1989, at 6:00 p.m. CONTRACT AWARD, WALTHAM STREET/BROOKS I DE AVE. TRAFFIC SIGNAL Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to award Contract #89-13, installation of traffic signals at Waltham Street and Brookside .00 Avenue, in the amount of $41,438.00, to Tri-State Signal , Inc. , 26 Thayer Road, Waltham, MA. CONTRACT AWARD, CARPET REPLACEMENT, TOWN OFFICES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to award Contract #90-2, carpet replacement in the Town Office Eui l di ng, in the amount of S?1 ,9?7.00, to E. L. Browen Co. , Inc. 154 Rangeway Road, North Billerica, MA 01862. EAST LEXINGTON LIBRARY/DRIVE, ONE WAY Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the installation of a sign designating the direction for One Way traffic at the driveway at the East Lexington Branch Library, as requested by Robert Hilton, Library Director. ACTING TOWN MANAGER Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the appointment by the Town Manager of Deborah Radway as Acting Town Manager during Mr. White's absence from Town from October 26, through November 10, 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 son, Mr. Dailey, Mr. McSweeney, to go into Executive Session for discussion of possible purchase of .�.r.► property and litigation, the disclosure of which could prove to be detrimental to the Town, and with no intent to resume open session. Selectmen' s Meeting --5- October 16, 1989 Upon motion duly made and seconded it was voted to adjourn at 9:50 p.m. A true record : Attest: Marion H. Snow Executive Clerk Selectmen' s Meeting -5- October 16, 1989 Upon motion duly made and seconded it was voted to adjourn at 9:50 p.m. A true record : Attest: /// L/4617Ar Marion H. Snow Executive Clerk S 2 r7 aim SELECTMEN'S MEETING October 23, 1989 ADJOURNED HEARING, TAX RATE CLASSIFICATION Robert Leone and Robert Foster of the Board of Assessors, and Harald Scheid, Town Assessor, met with the Board for the continued hearing on property tax classification options. Mr. Leone reported that Notification of Certification of New Growth had been received from the Dept. of Revenue, which allowed the Assessors to present tax rate options for the Board's final consideration. Mr. Leone announced that plans have been made for a public meeting on November 13 in Cary Hall at which residents can learn about revaluation procedures and can ask questions on matters of concern. He reviewed the range of possible 1990 tax rates and gave the impacts of several of the factors which had been singled out. Mr. Marshall moved that Option #3 (rates yielding ''w`' approximately equal increases in tax bills) be selected. The motion was seconded by Mr. Eddison. Mr. Dailey said he was uncomfortable about selecting Option #3 which he felt would eliminate degrees of flexibility which might be needed in the next two years by going so far toward the lowest residential factor allowed. He said he would prefer to have either option #4, #5, or #6 which would produce more equal percentages of tax rate change and would result in a lesser tax impact on non-residential properties. Mrs. Smith said that she also favored Option #3. Michael Schroeder, Precinct #9, said he was bothered by the imbalance in the residential and non--residential tax rates. He felt that the commercial property owners are disproportionately taxed and that process should be closely monitored to control spending. Mr. White said that he would be happy to meet with Mr. Schroeder to discuss the concerns he raised. Motion having been made and seconded, it was voted 3 - 2 with Mr. Dailey and Mr. McSweeney voting in the negative, to select a residential factor for Fiscal 1990 of 0.85921, resulting in a residential tax rate of 9.20%. Board members expressed their appreciation to the Assessors for the work involved in the presentation and for the assistance ■•ii• given in the selection process. ONE DAY AUCTIONEER, BRADLEY Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application of Richard Bradley of Bradley & VonDohlen Antique Auctioneers, for One Day Auctioneer License on October 25, 1989, for an antique auction to be held at the Lexington Lodge of Elks, 959 Waltham Street from 6:30 to 10:00 p.m. 2 %ow AFFORDABLE SCATTERED SITE HOUSING Mr. White reported that Peter Kelley, developer, had purchased a lot near Rangeway upon which a 3-bedroom ranch, valued at about $230,000, is located. Mr. Kelley had planned to demolish the house and to build a larger one on the lot, but offered to give the house to the Town for moving to a town owned lot, if one is available. Mr. White estimated a cost of $43,500 to cover moving, foundation, landscaping, and renovation to the interior and said that LexHAB could carry that amount with a mortgage and is willing to support the project, with no need to draw on LexHAB funds. Two tax title lots in the area had been identified and appeared to be appropriate and convenient for the move. Some details on title searches have not been completed but at this point, both seemed good possibilities. Mr. White asked the Board's view on commitment to the project to allow Mr. Kelley to make plans on setting the house aside on the lot rather than proceeding with demolition. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the Town Manager to proceed with arrangements for the moving to an appropriate Town owned lot. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 7:00 p.m. A true record, Attest: Of / / i'n . S Executive Clerk Imo a SELECTMEN'S MEETING ,,a i 30, 1989 October4j, A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, October 30, 1989, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Smith, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Eddison, Mr. Dailey, Mr. McSweeney; Ms. Radway, Acting Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. PUBLIC HEARING. BOSTONGAS. HILL STREET Mrs. Smith opened the Public Hearing on the petition of Bostongas Company for permission to install a new gas main in Hill Street. Warren Gibson, representing Bostongas, explained that the purpose of the work is to service Turnberry Hill, a new subdivision. A memo from Richard Spiers, Director of Public Works/Engineering, recommending approval of the petition was noted by the Chairman. There were no comments from the Board or the audience. Mrs. Smith referred to a letter received from Rena H. Murman, 92 Hill Street, who was opposed to the proposal because of disruption in the area. Mrs. Merman had suggested a number of stipulations to be imposed if the petition is approved by the Board, such as parking of vehicles off Hill Street; no use of metal plates in the roadway at days end; no noisy equipment used before 8:00 a.m. ; no traffic disruption during commuter and school peak hours. Mr. Gibson assured the Board that Bostongas would conduct the installation accordingly and that the roadway would be left in a smooth condition after completion of the project. There being no further comments, Mrs. Smith declared the hearing closed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition, plans and orders of Bostongas Company for permission to install approximately 360 feet of 4 inch gas main in Hill Street, as shown on accompanying plans. PUBLIC HEARING. BOSTONGAS. NEW MASS. AVENUE/WOOD STREET Mrs. Smith opened the Public Hearing on the petition of Bostongas for permission to install new gas mains in Wood Street and New Mass. Avenue. Mr. Gibson explained the purpose of the project is to service the Sheraton- Lexington Inn. Mr. Spiers was asked about the condition of Wood Street which he said was in need of reconstruction and will be done in 1991, after the installation of water mains scheduled for Spring and Summer, 1990. Mrs. Smith was asked about the condition of Wood Street which he said was in need of reconstruction and will be done, in 1991, after the installation of water mains scheduled for Spring and Summer, 1990. Mrs. Smith pointed out that the same concerns as has been voiced by Mrs. Murman relative to the Hill Street project should be kept in mind in the case of Wood Street and New Mass. Avenue, with the least inconvenience to residents possible. Mr. Gibson stated that residents on side streets off Wood Street had been asked about their wishes to tie into the gas system and that stubs will be installed at these intersections at the time of construction to accommodate such connections. 15 _2_ Mr. Gibson assured residents that the installations .will be located off to the side of the road, with patching done if necessary. Fred Rosenberg who had polled Wood Street area residents had seen no indications that any wanted to be connected to the gas line and felt that it represented a potential danger to many residents who will not benefit in any way from the installation. There being no further comments, the hearing was declared closed. Mr. Dailey urged that the Tree Warden and DPW stay alert to any needs or inconveniences caused to residents and that the concerns expressed be kept in mind during the installation. Mr. Marshall felt that a tremendous amount of disruption for four or five weeks and affecting many residents will result and saw no justification for approval of the project for only one Gas Company customer. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-1, with Mr. Marshall voting in the negative, to approve the petition, plans and orders of Bostongas Company for installation of approximately 6,900 feet of 6 inch gas main in Wood Street, and approximately 700 feet of 6 inch gas main in Massachusetts Avenue, as shown on accompanying plans. REPORTS ON TREE HEARINGS Dale Gaasland, Supt. of Parks and Trees, was present to report on tree hearings held recently on trees on Berwick Road, North Street and Mass. Avenue. Mr. Gaasland showed the Board a cross section of a diseased tree and reported that the Chestnut and Maple trees at 70 North Street were significantly weakened by decay similar to that seen in the sample slice. He further reported that two white pine trees at the edge of the Town Office Building parking lot represented hazards for the same reason. Mr. Gaasland stated that the tree at 11 Berwick Road is a basically .o.• sound tree, which the resident on that property had requested be taken down to allow for reconstruction of a stone wall with which it had interfered. He recommended that the tree not be removed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Tree Warden that two white pine trees at 1625 Massachusetts Avenue be removed in the interest of safety. Mrs. Harriet Hathaway, 66 North Street, was present as spokesperson for North Street neighbors polled. All residents contacted had opposed the removal of the silver maple and horsechestnut trees at 70 North Street, but Mrs. Hathaway acknowledged that if the trees were potentially dangerous and could injure people or damage property, they should not be allowed to remain. Mr. Gaasland explained that because of the softening and decay in their interiors, the North Street trees could fall at any time in any kind of windy conditions. It would not be possible to strengthen the trees by cabling since there are no supports nearby and he saw no way to deter the decaying or to save the trees. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the recommendation of the Tree Warden that a silver maple tree and a horsechestnut tree at 70 North Street be removed in the interest of safety. In discussion of the planting of replacement trees, Mr. Gaasland said that effort can be made to replace the horsechestnut tree with a similar type. Selectmen's Meeting -3- October 30, 1989 Mrs. Smith expressed her concerns about the extensive pruning of trees oak done by the Boston-Edison Company to accommodate power lines and asked that Mr. Gaasland look into the practices of the company with respect to these procedures. MINUTES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept, as presented, the minutes of the Selectmen on October 16, 1989. EDISON TRANSFORMER. MINUTEMAN VOTECH DAY CARE CENTER Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve a non recordable easement with Boston Edison Company and give permission for installation of a transformer and splice from MHX 5306 to SB#432, as shown on an accompanying plan of the entrance to the Minuteman Vocational School, 758 Marrett Road. RESIGNATION, EUGENE E. LEE, J.R.T.C. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the resignation of Eugene E. Lee as Lexington's representative on the Joint Regional Transportation Committee, effective immediately. APPOINTMENT, J.R.T.C. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to designate Carol O. Sonduck, 3 Hollow Lane, as Lexington's representative on the Joint Regional Transportation Committee, effective upon approval by JRTC. -oink SYMMES HOSPITAL Mr. Eddison reported on a meeting earlier that evening with the Arlington Board of Selectmen and representation from the Belmont Selectmen for discussion of the potential closing of Symmes Hospital. The purpose of the meeting was to plan strategy for a formal presentation at a November 3rd hearing to be held by the Acute Hospital Conversion Board. A Public Meeting was held in the Arlington Town Hall, attended by about 80 people, including Dr. Hubner of Choate-Symmes and physicians from each of the three towns. Dr. Dratch attended on behalf of Lexington physicians. A Resolution in support of the continuance of Symmes, drawn up and signed by Arlington Selectmen, was read by Mr. Eddison who asked the endorsement of it by the Board. At the Public Meeting, Dr. Dratch had stated that Symmes, a tri- community facility, was the main referral hospital of Lexington doctors and filled the needs of the many elderly & children in the three towns, because of its accessibility. In addition to supporting the Resolution, Mr. Eddison urged that our Legislators be requested to assist in efforts regarding Symmes and that citizens be encouraged to write to members of the Hospital Conversion Board expressing their support. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to endorse the Resolution by the Towns of Arlington, Belmont and Lexington in support of the continued operation of Symmes Hospital. Letters expressing the Board's support, and requesting any assistance dank possible, will be sent to Representative Doran and Senator Kraus. -4-- CONSENT AGENDA TRUSTEES OF PUBLIC TRUST Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize Thomas G. Taylor, Alan S. Field, John R. Packard, and their successors as Trustees of Public Trusts for Lexington to act on behalf of all funds administered by them as such Trustees in the matter of the investment and reinvestment of such funds and more particularly with respect to the purchase and sale of •• securities through Shearson/American Express, Inc. In the event of default, the particular funds involved would be responsible, provided, however, that the Trustees themselves would be responsible if they had committed a breach of their fiduciary duty. CATV LEGISLATION Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to request Representative Doran to submit to the General Court for enactment of a bill relating to franchise fees for cable operators, as authorized under Article 54 of the 1989 Annual Town Meeting. ONE DAY LIQUOR LICENSES. ELKS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the applications of the B.P.O. #2204, 959 Waltham Street, for One Day Liquor Licenses on November 4, (Lexington Lions Club Social); November 5, (Baby Christening party) ; November 17, (Elks Lodge Social) ; and November 19, (50th wedding anniversary party). CHURCH OF OUR REDEEMER Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request of The Church of Our Redeemer for permission to display sandwich boards advertising the annual Yankee Fair, to be carried by parishioners in Lexington Center on November 17 and November 18, 1989. law CEMETERY FEES Ms. Radway referred to the moratorium on the sale of lots at Westview Cemetery, imposed to allow time to identify operating expenses and to develop options for fee schedules to support these expenses. A comprehensive study developed by Warren Monsignore, Cemetery Division Superintendent, was reviewed with the Board. The report included a survey of both private and public cemetery lot charges, (Analysis I) FY90 expenses with largely self supporting fee structures; and (Analysis III ) a self supporting fee structure that would eliminate the Perpetual Care Fund. Mr. Spiers and Mr. Monsignore recommended that Analysis IV which would raise revenues by increasing the fee for sale of lots and would seek an additional $70,000 from the interest of the Trust Fund. The Analysis IV structure showed prices which would place Lexington in the top percentile among cemeteries appearing in the survey and about 45% below that of private cemeteries. Grave lots would be raised from $450 to $600 each, with other services raised proportionately. Mr. Marshall felt that a move closer to $900/lot (market rate) would be more appropriate. Mrs. Smith said she would favor an increase to $600/lot at this time. She felt that an increase to $900, or doubling the cost, required a public meeting for input from citizens. Selectmen's Meeting -5- October 30, 1989 Mr. Dailey suggested that a move to $750/lot might be acceptable. Mrs. Smith concurred with his proposal. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to increase the charge for extra deep grave lots to $750, with all related services raised from current costs as shown in Analysis IV by the same percentage of increase. The Board's action is understood to be an interim step. The moratorium on sale of lots will continue untl .,the,new rate ructure has been printed and made public. `„ ' �' CONTRACT #90-5 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to award Contract #90- 5, Adams Street Drain and Hamilton Road Sewer installations, to Ashbrook Development Corporation, 150 Baldwin Road, Carlisle, MA. lowest bidder under Alternate "B, in the amount of $136,803.45, subject to approval of Town Counsel as to bid form. HAZARDOUS HOUSEHOLD WASTE COLLECTION Ms. Radway reported that the 9th annual hazardous household waste collection day had been the most successful to date. A 60% increase over the amount received in 1988 had been collected, totalling 135 5-gallon drums. Ms. Radway informed the Board that the State is encouraging the formation of a Waste Management Team with the thought of looking into regional collection next year. 1011.4 Mrs. Smith thanked Ms. Radway and asked that the Board's appreciation for the hard work of the League of Women Voters, Dept. of Public Works and Health staffs, be expressed in letters to those who had participated. Upon motion duly made and seconded it was voted to adjolirn at 9:15 p.m. A true record, Attest: , 46? Marion H. Snow Executive Clerk