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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1982-01-BOS-min SELECTMEN'S MEETING Januaryrift! 1982 t � A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held in the Select- men's Meeting Room, Town Office Building on Monday, January 4, 1982 at 7:30 P.M. Chairman Busa, Mrs. Battin, Mrs. Miley, Mr. Crain and Mr. Politi; Mr, Hutchinson, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Miss Adler, Assistant to the Town Manager and Miss Casey, Executive Clerk were present. The Board met with the Town Treasurer who requested approval of a Town note in the amount of $12,506.75, the unpaid balance on the $97,550 note Treasurer for Chapter 90 resurfacing. The current note is with the Middlesex at 6% interest. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve renewal of the note with the Middlesex in the amount of $12,506.75 at 6% interest dated January 6, 1982 to mature February 25, 1982. The Board met with Mrs. Jacquelyn Smith, Lexington's representative Hanscom to the Hanscom Field Advisory Commission to discuss the 1982 business plan Field for Hanscom Field. Adv. Comm. She informed the Board that Massport, at its November 19 Board Meet- ing, had voted to (1) prepare an annual business plan for Hanscom covering r.. the ensuing 1-2 years and submit it to the HFAC for review; (2) to conduct jointly with the HFAC a review of the Noise Rules during the first half of 1982; to establish a data collection and management system which will be the basis of annual review of "the effect of fleet mix and operations on the noise environment" in the surrounding communities. She submitted a copy of the complete business plan and stated that the most immenent consideration is the purchase of the Dalli property on Old Bedford Road near the entrance to Hanscom Field. This will require an ENF review and comments are due by January 13. She stated that the business goal is to make Hanscom a "break-even" operation after years of running in the red. The next immediate project will be a restaurant situated near Hartwell Road in Bedford. She stated that the HFAC had no objections to the restaurant if the Town of Bedford didn't. The third project will be a flight service facility on MPA property at the intersection of Old Bedford Road and Hanscom Drive. The Commission had no objections to the project. She stated that the major development issue for the surrounding towns will be promotion of potential corporate tenants, i.e. , hangared corporate jets. It was recommended that MPA be asked to move very slowly on the plan so that adverse impacts can be picked up in the annual noise review. The Board then discussed with Mrs. Angela Frick, Lexington's represen- tative to the MAPC the ENF required on the purchase of the Dalli property in order for her to reply by January 13. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to support the pur- chase of the Dalli property by MPA for a transition zone to be defined by the Town with the following conditions: 0111 - 2 - 1. The sellers are willing sellers. 2. The use of the property will conform to local zoning regulations. . The property will not be used for airport related activity. . The property will not be allowed to deteriorate to the detriment of the neighborhood. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the Town Manager to draft a response incorporating the above conditions for Mrs. Frick's reply to MAP , Bedford St. The Chairman opened the public hearing on the proposed improvements to Hartwell Ave.the Bedford Street/Hartwell Avenue area. Residents and business establish- Traffic stablish- Traffis ments in the area, through representatives, had been notified of the hearing. The Chairman read a letter from Howard A. Smith, D.V.M. expressing his view that if any physical changes are made to affect his veterinary hospital it would be a hardship on him and his entire staff. Mr. Hanlon, Town Engineer, and Mr. Cook of Boston Survey Consultants, using maps of the area, explained in detail the proposed plan. This plan included revisions to the plan approved last year due to projections of 30-40% higher traffic volume during the coming ten years. This updated traffic count was required by the state engineers before approval of the plan will be given. The main objection voiced to the plan by the residents was the elim- ination of the traffic signal at Eldred Street necessitating added mileage when making trips to and from Lexington Center. Mr. Cook stated that he felt that reinstating the traffic signal at lewd Eldred Street could possibly be the cause of not receiving funding from the State. During the discussion that followed Mr. Hanlon's and Mr. Cook's presentation, it was decided, in an effort to come up with a plan that would be acceptable to the residents in the area, a group would meet again with Mr. Hanlon and Mr. Cook before final presentation of the plan to the Board on January 18. This group will include Pauline Souza, a Bedford Street resident, Mrs, Iris Wheaton of the Planning Board, Mr. Martin Hagerty, representing the North Lexington Association, Attorney DeAngelis, represent- ing industry and Richard Withers, representing the Bike Path Committee. Mr. Hanlon informed the Board that the plan for the Marrett Road improvements had not changed. The proposal calls for the widening of Route 2A from Route 128 to the intersection of Mass. Avenue and Marrett Road and the Vocational School driveway; relocation of Forbes Road and the driveway to the Sheraton Lexington Motor Inn driveway and installation of traffic signals at the relocated Forbes Rd. and Mass. Avenue. Final plans will be presented to the Board for approval on January 18. Minutes Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the min- utes of December 7. Committees Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to table discussion of committees. 5 7 - 3 - Selectmen's Meeting January 4, 1982 f:*,i The Manager addressed the Board relative to his proposed operating Town Mgr. budget of an overall gross spending of $37,000,000 which is approxim- Budget ately a 2.6% increase over last year's budget. He explained that he had FY '83 used a tax rate that he believed was high as the taxable list is still not finalized. He took the uniform rate,. .-sed upon $1.2 billion and assumed $10 million new construction. - .to d t - h epee that the tax rate would go down by virtue of esti . ed o in e taxable list. He stated that he wished to emphasize that there are still people that are confused by "2 1/2" and that we are working under a levy restric- tion. estsc-- tion. The Town of Lexington is taxing at a rate on an estimated taxable list of $1.2 billion at approximately 2.1-2.2%. He pointed out that the budget, even after deletions and adjustments is still over the levy limit. He proposed a sewer use charge and increased water rate. Chief Corr of the Police Department and Chief Bergeron of the Fire Department were in attendance to review each department's budget. The Police Department request of $202,900 represents an increase of 7.7% over last year. $7,000 is allowed for replacing seven cruisers, $3,000 for an estimated increase in the cost of fuel and gasoline and $3,000 for the BAYPERN radio system. The Chief pointed out that the major change in the budget was increases in the items of gasoline and the po- lice cruisers. The Fire Department budget was level funded and the Chief ex- plained that the bulk of the money related to fuel increases and basis roml maintenance costs of running the two buildings. He stated that one of the things that had helped was the fact that there had been significant fuel savings due to heat conservation measures implemented during the year. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the Band Stand Manager to honor the request of Donald J. Gillespie, .Jr. , Coordinator/ Music Education for the use of the Community Band Stand and to "pass the hat" on Sunday, May 30, 1982 at 3:00 P.M. by the Lexington High School Band. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 by roll call Executive vote, Mr. Busa, Mrs. Battin, Mrs. Miley, Mr. Crain and Mr. Politi to go Session into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing a matter of liti- gation, with no intention of resuming the open session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 10:50 P.M. A true record, Attest: / • -)--/-- Autif,-;-;7/7• Executive Clerk 1 I SELECTMEN'S MEETING p.. January 6, 1982 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held in the Select- men's Meeting Room, Town Office Building on Wednesday, January 6, 1982 at 7:30 P.M. Chairman Busa, Mrs. Battin, Mrs. Miley, Mr`. Crain and Mr. Politi; Mr. Hutchinson, Town Manager Miss Adler, Assistant to the Town Manager and Miss Casey, Executive Clerk were present. The Chairman convened the meeting at 7:30 P.M. and the Town Manager Budget presented his proposed budget submission for the Fiscal Year 1983. He informed the Board that the budget was consistent with Town goals that complies with the guidelines of Proposistion 2 1/2 limiting the fixed growth to $640,000. The proposed total budget of $37,006,320, with a tax levy of $27,083,320 exceeding the limit by $596,604. He ex- plained that this problem will be remedied by new construction growth and the institution of certain user fees. He explained that, presuming that Proposition 2 1/2 will be amended to allow new construction growth to off- set expenses, will allow for basically the same level of service within the community and take care of exceeding the fixed growth limit. He stated that the estimated total spending and payments will be rms. $37,006,320, an increase of 2.6% or $36,065,935 over last year's budget. Significant items deleted by the Manager er are as follows: MUNICIPAL SPENDING Capital New Road Construction $100,000 Sidewalks 40,000 Cemetery Development 24,000 Conservation Acquisitions 250,000 Year Round Track 60,000 Articles Mystic Valley $ 10,000 CMARC 5,000 He explained that ',EXPRESS will be level funded while rejecting a request to institute chair car services. Increases in the budget are as follows: Expansion of meals program for 6,800 the Council on Aging RePlace 10,000 Storm Drains 100,000 Payroll 440,695 Future Planning 100,000 (unfunded pension liability) - 2 - Mr. Hutchinson recommended commitment of $1.2 million of a $3.1 million free cash to support the operating -udget. He explained the School budget of $18,141,354 provides for a $600,099 increase for the Lexington Public Schools and $364,022 level funded budget for the Minuteman Vocational School. The Lexington Public Schools budget was an increase of 3 1/2%. He explained that, based upon statements by the State Administration, he had assumed level funding for State and County assessments. Mr. Hutchinson explained that at the submission of his budget, a de- cision had not been reached by the Board of Assessors for a recommended tax rate for FY '82. He stated that, consistent with the intent of Proposition 2 1/2, he was proposing implementation of a sewer use charge to support the Sani- tary Sewer System with the first billing in January 1983. He also recom- mended consideration of a proposed water rate increase. He explained that he was assuming a revenue of $10,000,000 by the Cherry Sheet, local funds and available funds. This included the new sewer use charge and allowed for a sustained loss of $1.2 million in ex- cise tax revenue because of Proposition 2 1/2. The Manager explained that the budget provided for a basic level of service. He stated that unless financial circumstances change, any in- creased appropriations would require additional cuts in other areas or ex- panded sources of revenue. He also stated that if the financial situation changed in a favorable way, consideration should be -given to additional appropriations for road construction and other worthwhile projects to avoid long-term costs. He stated that the proposed budget called for taxing at 2.2% of fair market value and requested the Board to ask for special legis- lation to allow taxing up to 2 1/2% of the property value. He also stated that he hoped the Board would continue efforts to support tax reform and cost containment for the State because this is necessary for the long term viability of the Commonwealth and its cities and towns. The Chairman thanked the Manager for this presentation and explana- tion of the FY '83 budget. Executive Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 by roll call Session vote, Mr. Busa, Mrs. Battin, Mrs. Miley, Mr. Crain and Mr. Politi, to go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing collective bargain- ing with no intention of resuming the open session: Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 10:00 P.M. A true record, Attest: (16...tALt-e. /17, 06-400( - ! 15 } Executive Clerk 1 STREET HEARING ,t CENTER STREET January 11, 1982 PRESENT: Alfred S. Busa, Chairman, Board of Selectmen; Walter J. Tonaszuck, Director, Public Works/Engineerihg. Mr. Busa opened the hearing at 7:30 P.M. and introduced Mr. Tona- szuck who conducted the hearing. Mr. Tonaszuck explained that Center Street is approximately 375' long, has a 50' layout, 24' roadway and no sidewalks on either side. The road has been paved according to specifications of the Town Engineering Department and was inspected by the Engineering Department during its construction. He explained that existing drainage in the area was suf- ficient and no additional drainage was necessary. Be explained that the Ono street is in acceptable condition to the Engineering Department and ready for presentation to Town Meeting for acceptance or rejection. Mr. J. Albaro, 31 Center Street, who was in attendance stated that he was pleased that the Town would consider the acceptance of Center Street and wondered if there would be any problems. Mr. Busa stated that no problems were anticipated and the Board of Selectmen would make a recommendation to Town Meeting for acceptance. Mr. Tonaszuck explained that a betterment would be assessed and abated due to the fact that the residents had made the improvements at their own expense. Mr. Busa declared the hearing closed at 7:40 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Dir. Pub. Wks/Engineering t vnio VOID ‘.\t4 ' 7‘114-1 SELECTMEN'S MEETING January 18, 1982 Fmk A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held in the Select- men's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, on Monday, January 18, 1982 at 7:30 P.M. Chairman Busa, Mrs. Miley, Mr. Crain and Mr. Politi; Mr. Hut- chinson, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Miss Adler, Assistant to the Town Manager and Miss Casey, Executive Clerk were present. The Chairman convened the meeting and called on the Town Manager Burglar relative to the request of Dr. Richter for an additional burglar alarm Alarm line at the police station. Dr. Richter had been notified of the meet- Lines ing but was not in attendance. The Manager reiterated his recommendation that the Town stay with its existing line for $20.80 per month. He also recommended that any additional lines, if provided by the Board, should be paid for by the users. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the Mana- ger's recommendation not to provide additional burglar alarm lines at the police station unless the users pay for the service. The Manager addressed the Board relative to the request of Mr. Jo- Bus Stop seph S. Broussard, 1358 Mass. Avenue to have the bus stop at the corner Percy Rd./ of Mass. Avenue and Percy Road moved to another location or eliminate it Broussard altogether. Mr. Broussard attended the meeting and stated that he has trouble with damage to his lawn due to the fact that people sit on the wall and place suitcases on his lawn while waiting for the bus resulting in his having to resod annually. He mentioned that some of the offenders are from the Wild Acre Inn on Percy Road. The Manager suggested that he have the situation monitored for six months and that he contact the Wild Acre Inn in an effort to cooperate with Mr. Broussard. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the Town Manager to monitor the bus stop problem at the corner of Percy Road and Mass. Avenue and report back to the Board by July 1. The Board discussed the petition of Mr. & Mrs. Zaborowski, 16 Smith Crosswalk Avenue, Mr. & Mrs. Joe Steinkraus, 18 Smith Avenue, Mr. & Mrs. Scott, 14 Request Smith Avenue and Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Goss, 77 Pollen Road for a crosswalk Follen/ at the corner of Smith Avenue and Pollen Road. Smith Ave. Mrs. Zaborowski explained to the Board the reasoning behind the re- quest was concern for the ten children walking to Bowman School who live at the lower end of Follen Road and cross Pollen at Dawes to the school. Mrs. Karen Brown, President of the Bowman PTO informed the Board that the the Board had voted to support the parents in their efforts to have a crosswalk painted as requested. - 2 - Capt. Lima stated that the area had been thoroughly investigated by the Traffic Safety Committee and the report indicated that it was felt that a crosswalk at Smith Avenue would only serve to give a false sense of security to the children. It was the recommendation of the Committee god not to support the request for a crosswalk because of lack of sidewalks and insufficient sight distances. Capt Lima also stated that the Com- mittee further recommended that the children walk down Smith Avenue and up Locust to cross at the crosswalk there even though the distance was somewhat longer because it would be a safer route. The Manager asked if the petitioners had requested bus service for their children from the School Department. Both Mrs. Faborowski and Mrs. Brown said they had not done this but would pursue the suggestion. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to table the re- quest of petitioners in the SmithiFollen Road area for a crosswalk at Smith and Follen for further investigation by the Manager. Guardrail The request of Mr. Lawrence J. Kipp, 517 Mass. Avenue for a guard- Request rail in front of his property was reviewed again by the Board. Mr. Kipp Mr. Hutchinson reported that Mr. Kipp had installed reflectors at Mass. Ave. his property and as the accidents at the location that had occurred there were caused by drunken driving, excessive speed and improper turning move- ments by motorists and slippery road conditions. He stated there were no incidents of accidents affecting the property at 517 Mass. Avenue. He felt that the reflectors was the best solution to the problem because of the configuration of the road and the house is on the opposite side of the curve in the road. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the recom- mendations of the Traffic Safety Committee to deny the request of Mr. Kipp for a guardrail in front of his property at 517 Mass. Avenue. sow Mr. Kipp requested consideration of some alternatives and Mr. Hut- chinson is to meet with him again. Bedford St./ Mr. Hanlon updated the Board relative to his meeting with Mr. Hagerty, Hartwell Ave.Mrs. Wheaton, Mr. DeAngelis, Mrs. Souza and Mr. Withers to discuss changes in the concept plan for the Bedford St./Hartwell Avenue project presented on January 4. As a result of the meeting changes were made to the plan adding a left turn lane into Eldred Street from Bedford Street, eastbound and the ex- tension_ of the frontage road to connect to Drummer Boy Way. He informed the Board that in addition to the above changes he will propose to the Mass. DPW that a pedestrian overpass to constructed to allow pedestrians to cross Bedford Street. The exact location and configuration of the pedestrian over- pass will be determined during the 25 percent design phase. Mr. Sandy, Chairman of the Planning Board had submitted a letter to the Board recommending that the Board not approve the plan unless several issues listed were complied with. A minority report from Laura Nichols and Jacquelyn Smith of the Plan- ning Board indicating that they had abstained from the vote of January 11 in which the Planning Board did not recommend acceptance of the plan. Both Mrs. Nichols and Mrs. Smith indicated approval of the concept plan and urged the Town to continue working closely with Boston Survey Consultants and the State to implement the other two major elements of the plan. mod ... 3 _.. Selectmen's Meeting January 18, 1982 rift David G. Williams, Chairman of the Conservation Commission submitted a report indicating that the Commission strongly recommended that more attention be paid to potential impact on the Hobbs Brook watershed. He stated that the Commission would not support any proposal that would di- minish the value of this resource. After discussion the Board agreed to the acceptance of the concept plan, as revised, and submission to the State for approvals Mrs. Miley moved to approve the concept plan and submission to the State for approval. She indicated that her approval is contingent upon some provision for pedestrians and bicyclists to cross Bedford Street ,including an underpass. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the con- cept plan for Bedford Street/Hartwell Avenue and submission to the State DPW for approval. The Chairman thanked Mr. Hanlon and Mr. Cook of Boston Survey Con- sultants for the work and patience extended in compiling the final con- cept plan. He also expressed appreciation to the five people involved in the discussion to try and resolve some citizen concerns. The Town Manager and representatives of various agencies reviewed Budget budget requests for FY '83. Discussions Mystic Valley Mental Health budget request of $24,958 was "Zero" funded by the Manager and a $10,000 funding for "Safehouse" was recom- mended by the Human Services Committee. Dr. Lund, representing the Mystic Valley Mental Health Clinic addressed the Board and explained that during the year "Safehouse" had provided 76 days of service to Lexington youth. He also explained that "Safehouse" is in line for matching funds by the State Department of Social Services; thus a $10,000 town allocation will be increased to $37,500 in State funds. Mr. Politi requested further information relative to the number of residents served by the "Safehouse" program and the nature of the prob- lems treated. Dr. Lund is to report to the Board with documentation of services to Lexington residents in support of funding requests. Mr. Joseph Rooney, Chairman of the Council on Aging, addressed the Board relative to the Council's request of $47,762. He explained that in January the program of congregate meals was started and has been in- creased to two days in October with approximately 30-35 in attendance. The Minuteman Home Corporation is now going to pick up the expense for these meals and are recommending increasing it to three days. Under the new structure, the participants will pay 75C per day and, if unable to pay, will not be charged. The High School is now offering 10 courses to Senior Citizens. Mr. Rooney explained that the Town donates $2500 WI the Minuteman Home Care Corp. and in return provides approximately $41,000 per year. Mr. Rooney requested $300 for mileage for the outreach worker and explained that she makes approximately 23 calls per day. Mrs. Marion Fitzpatrick, Chairman of the Elder Chorus, which was started in 1977 with a grant from Elder Affairs who requested funding o $1200 for the pianist and director which had been deleted from the budget by the Manager. - 4 - t o Mrs. Phear explained that the mental health consultation services funding is now incorporated in the Human Servicesbudget in the amount of $2300.00. Toad The Manager informed the Board that RePlace had more than doubled its budget submission this year. His recommendation was for an additional $10,000 but did not recommend supporting the request as presented. Linda Conrad of the RePlace Board informed the Board that there has been an increase in the number of kids and the present staff is inadequate to handle the work load. She felt that a drop-in center coordinator could deal directly with the young people on a daily basis. Mr. Steve Baran, Chairman of the Human Services Committee, supported RePlace's request for this additional staff member. M . Conrad explained that RePlace has been depending heavily on volunteer time and feels that a drop-in coordinator could also coordinate the volunteer time, which was more than 9,000 hours last year, in a more productive manner. Total budget request by RePlace was $68,428. Mr. Fred Rosenberg, Chairman of the Transportation Committee, addressed the Board relative to the LEXPRESS appropriation request for $186,500. He explained that $5,000 of the request would be allocated to purchasing approximately 6 hours per week for a chair car for the handicapped through the Minuteman Home Care. Mr. Rosenberg explained that the administration of the chair car will be handled by the Minuteman Home Care. The Manager introduced Mr. David Enman and Mr. Robert Harris who both spoke in favor of funding the chair car for the handicapped. Except for the additional cost for the chair car, LEXPRESS had re- quested level funding. ..,i Ms. Sherri McCann of the Central Middlesex Association for Retarded Citizens addressed the Board in support of a requested $5,000 funding. She stated that it has been determined, through the Department of Mental Health, that there are presently five Lexington residents who are in need of CMARC services. She stated that these five are in addition to the six that are currently receiving services. The Manager and the Human Services Committee recommended no funding. The Manager informed the Board that there seemed to be no conflict in the request for $7,080 from the Visiting Nurses Association and he recommended level funding. Ron Wells, Chairman of the Youth Commission, addressed the Board re- garding its request for $700 funding. He explained that the Commission has planned a drug education evening for February 4 and is in the process of designing a Needs Assessment Survey to distribute to junior and high school students and parents to determine the specific issues and concerns of the youth of Lexington. It is also considering reinstituting the Mock Town Meetings. He explained that the Commission would like to plan addi- tional evening programs, but without some funding finds it difficult and frustrating. The Manager recommended that the Commission apply for funds through the Agencies and Committees Account. .rr _ 5 _ ft Selectmen's Meeting January 18, 1982 rma Mr. Politi brought up the point that the Youth Commission is a By- Law Committee and as such would be entitled to its own budget. The Manager pointed out that there are some commissions, such as the Historic Districts, that is funded through the Boards and Committees. Account. H4 expressed concern that there might be duplication of ser- vices and questioned whether or not it should be continued as a separate agency. The Manager recommended a budget of $25,800 for the Vetrans Services. Mrs. Phear had recommended a reduction of $5,000. Mr. Hutchinson stated that if there was an outstanding case load, this figure would change. Mr. Stephen Baran, Chairman of the Human Services Committee, ad- dressed the Board and explained the rationale relative to its recommenda- . tions regarding budget requests from human services committees. He strongly recommended funding for an outreach coordinator in the Council on Aging budget if no funding is available to the Minuteman Home Care through Title V - The Older American Act. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the Minutes minutes of the Selectmen's meetings of December 14 and December 28, 1981. rmai Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the Bonds bonds for deputy collectors Paul E. Kelley, John D. Kelley and Ellen M. Kelley. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to layout Center Center St. Street as a public way from Reed Street to Avon Street. Layout The question of reconstruction of Outlook Drive was discussed and Outlook Mr. Hutchinson informed the Board that he felt that, despite the fact Drive that Outlook Drive had been petitioned for the last two years, there are streets of a higher priority needing attention. He stated that he had not provided funding for Outlook Drive. He explained that there is a great deal of engineering planning work and time involved and that he would, be prepared to discuss additional streets for planning purposes if the Board so desired. He stated that the financial data is changing daily and could make the difference in whether or not the projects could be completed. Mr. Les Brown, Mrs. Pat McPartland and Mr. Robert O'Neil all of Outlook Drive requested the Board's consideration of the request for the reconsideration of the reconstruction of Outlook Drive. They stated that even a partial reconstruction of the worst end would be acceptable. The Chairman stated that the whole question of street construc- tion and reconstruction would be taken into consideration when deter- mining the final figures of the budget. j - 6 - Bedford St./ Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve payment Hartwell Ave.of $6,119.48 to the Boston Survey Consultants for work on the traffic analysis of the Bedford St./Hartwell Avenue project. Bartlett Ave. The Chairman read a letter from Mr. Arthur W. Hill, Headmaster of the Traffic Lexington Christian Academy expressing concern relative to the traffic con- ditions on Bartlett Avenue. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to refer the matter to the Traffic Safety Committee, through the Town Manager. Mr. Hill is to be so informed. One Day Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted, Mr. Politi abstain- Liq. Lie. ing, to issue two One Day Liquor Licenses to RAEDAAC Association for January 21 and January 28, 1982. Executive Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 by roll call vote, Session Mr. Busa, Mrs. Miley, Mr. Crain and Mr. Politi, to go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing the reputation and character, physical con- dition or mental health of an individual with no intention of resuming the open session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 11:15 P.M. A true record, Attest: Executive Clerk Q SELECTMEN'S MEETING January 25, 1982 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held in the Select- men's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, on Monday, January 25, 1982 at 7:30 P.M. Chairman Busa, Mrs. Battin, Mrs. Miley, Mr. Crain and Mr. Politi; Mr. Hutchinson, Town Manager, Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Miss Adler, Assistant to the Town Manager and Miss Casey, Executive Clerk were present. The Chairman convened the meeting and met_with:members of the Metro- Met State politan State Hospital Land Task Force relative to an article recently Hospital published in the Beacon. The article essentially stated that due to de- Land creasing numbers of clients in State institutions and the need for the Com- monwealth to turn some of its assets into cash, there is pressure to sell off or lease large tracts of State-owned lands to private developers. Senators John King (Danvers) and Carol Amick (Bedford) are consider- ing bills to ensure that the process used by the State is one which allows legislative review with first refusal to State agencies which might be able to put the property to other uses and local or county options for purchase or use. In some communities these tracts of land have never been zoned. In such instances, the local zoning map does not cover the State-owned property although there may be local zoning designations abutting the State r-7 lands on all sides. Mrs. Battin informed the Board that she had checked with our Town I Planner and he had stated that the Met State Hospital land is zoned. Members of the Task Force informed the Board that they had not been aware of this problem and that they have no further information relative to the disposition of the property but would keep the Board informed. The Chairman thanked the committee and} they retired from the meeting. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to abate the water Water charge in the amount of $5.00 for L & C Flashing Barricades -- original Abatement permit should have been extended instead of issuing a new permit. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the Minutes minutes of the Selectmen's meetings of January 4 (as corrected) January 6 and January 11, 1982. The Board discussed the request of Secretary Matthews of the Execu- Lex. Hous- tive Office of Communities and Development for the name of a candidate ing Auth. for appointment to the Lexington Housing Authority. Appt. It was decided that the Housing Authority should be contacted be- fore submitting a nominee. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to table the re- quest of Secretary Matthews for submission of a nominee for appointment 0 to the Lexington Housing Authority. - 2 - Library Mr. Hilton, Director of the library, met with the Board to discuss the Budget budget requests. The Manager explained that the library budget remains relatively stable ..J with a payroll request of $458,624 and expense request of $8,000 (up 5%) . Provision has been made to provide storm windown within the operating budget. Mr. Hilton explained that the trustees money is up slightly and State aid down because of the slight drop in the '80 census. State aid will be $14,740 as compared to $16,239 last year based on the '70 census. Mr. Hilton explained that he will be using more of the trustees money for book purchase and most of the State aid for that purpose also. The library will be open on the current hour schedule with Friday night closing. Conservation Mr. Cliff Prentiss, Conservation Director, met with the Board relative Land to articles for the warrant for purchase of four parcels of land for con- servation purposes. Land to be acquired would be Lot 84 on Assessors' Property Map 30, (off Maple Street) ; Lot 108C on Assessors' Property Map 83, (off Grove Street) ; Lot 19 on Assessors' Property Map 58 (off Cedar Street; Lot 83 on Assessors' Property Map 30 (off Maple Street) ; Unnumbered lot adjacent to Lot 14 on Assessors' Property Map 59 (off Bonair Avenue) . Mr.. Dave Williams, Chairman of the Conservation Committee, explained that Lot 84 off Maple Street is 8 acres of uplands abutting the Great Meadows. Lot 108C off Grove Street is 3.14 parcel on Grove Street next to conservation land and Simonds Brook; Lot 19 (off Maple Street) and the un- numbered nnumbered lot adjacent to Lot 14 off Bonair Avenue and Lot 19 off Cedar Street are two parcels of Town owned land and a tax title lot. The town owned land is the "Old Poor Farm" and the tax title lot is adjacent to existing con- servation land off Bonair Street. �■■r� Recreation The Recreation Committee met with the Board to discuss its budget requests. Mr. Eby, Chairman, reviewed the requests and explained that the $5,000 item under "Development & Refurbishment of Parks & Playgrounds" was for the backstop at the field house which has rusted out at the bottom. He stated that it would be relocated up closer to home plate. A $10,000 request for scraping the "Res" was discussed and Mr. Eby suggested that it might be wise to set aside an amount each year in the regular budget for this purpose as it is an ongoing problem with the growth of algae. Miss Halverson explained that, although it is unsightly, it does not affect the quality of the water adversly. She explained that the dril- ling for new water is almost completed and that new water will help to slow down the growth of new algae, it will not prevent it. Mr. Dave Wells addressed the Board relative to the request for $70,000 for an all weather track to be placed in the location of the existing track at the Center Playground. He explained that the track is used by the schools for approximately 20 meets each year. The present track which is originally a cinder track requires 5 men and 5 hours of preparation for each meet. The new track has a life expectancy of over 20 years. The question of non-school use was raised by Mr. Politi and Mr. Wells stated that there were no statistics to that effect available and that there was no way that a user fee could be instituted. / - 4 - Mr. Busa brought up the point that perhaps this should be a part rm. of the school budget and it will be discussed during a meeting of the Board and the School Committee. The payroll of a little over $11,000 allocated to the playgrounds was discussed. Miss Halverson informed the Board that there are five play- grounds in operation during the summer months and that there has been a decline in enrollment. She feels that this is due partially to the de- cline in elementary school enrollment. She stated tftishe felt that the playground programs were appealing to the children be use they could just drop in anytime rather than have to sign up for a certain program at a definite time each day. She also stated that the playground programs and the winter. Saturday morning programs are the only two programs for which there is no charge. The Board met with the Board of Assessors to discuss the new tax Board of rate as a result of the Town-wide revaluation. Assessors Mr. Grush, Chairman of the Board of Assessors, informed the Board 1982 Tax that the total valuation of the Town is $1,242,053,600 based on five Rate types of classes. He explained the classes as Class One - Residential which includes all types of dwellings, condominiums, apartments and other multi-family properties; Open Space Class includes vacant land; Commercial Class and Industrial Class contain properties so classified; Personal Property Class includes all taxable personal property, as defined, the per- sonal property of the five utility companies which are valued by the De- partment of Revenue and the personal property of the two utility companies which are valued by the Assessors. Mr. Grush explained the various methods that could be used under I the provisions of Chapter 797 of the General Laws to raise the allowable $25,840,699 for fiscal 1982. It was the recommendation of the Board of Assessors that a residential factor of 91.1309 be used, which would re- sult in a tax rate for residential and open space land of $18.96 and $27.77 for the Commercial, Industrial and Personal classifications. He explained that these rates would result in the Residential Class paying 71.255% and the Commercial and Industrial Calss 24.017% of the total; an increase of 1.258% and 1.288% respectively. The Open Space Class will be paying 0.789%, a decrease of 0.802% and the Personal Property Class 3.934%, a decrease of 1.750%. He explained that almost all of the latter decrease comes from the P2 Class, which are utility values certified by the Department of Revenue. After discussion, it was decided to hold a public informational meeting on February 1 in Estabrook Hall at 8:00 P.M. and set the tax rate on February 8. The Chairman thanked Mr. Grush and members of the Board of Assessors for the presentation and they retired from the meeting. There was no Executive Session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:30 P.M. A true record, Attest: 6? :-)?/ . CLt - - N(/-/ xe u E c Live Clerk I � i E :171*/ Ci4A )I" SELECTMEN'S MEETING ti rm7 January 27, 1982 A Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held in the Select- men's Meeting Room, Town Office Building on Wednesday, January 27, 1982 at 7:30 P.M. Chairman Busa, Mrs. Battin, Mrs. Miley, Mr. Crain and Mr. Politi; Mr. Hutchinson, Town Manager; Mr. Tonas uc , Dir. Public Works/ Engineering; Miss Adler, Assistant to the Town Manager and Miss Casey, Ex- ecutive Clerk, were present. The Board met to discuss remaining items on the Expense Budget and Articles and Capital Improvements. Expense item #3310 - Mystic Valley Mental Health - requested $24,958. The Manager recommended "zero" funding. During discussion the Board and the Manager expressed concerns rela- tive to lack of accountability on the part of Mystic Valley. The Human Services Committee had recommended $10,000 funding to be targeted for SAFEHOUSE. Mr. Politi disagreed as he felt that there were few Lexington residents utilizing the services offered by SAFEHOUSE and that there were other services offered to Lexington citizens by Mystic Valley and such funding should be so utilized. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted, 4-1, Mr. Politi voting in the negative, to approve $10,000 funding to Mystic Valley Men- a tal Health, such funding to be directed to SAFEHOUSE. Account #3330 - Community Services/Replace - requested $68,428 and Manager recommendation of $40,488 was discussed. Human Services Committee recommended $51,628. F Mrs. Conrad of RePlace addressed the Board and explained that some cuts in services would have to take place if the Board did not approve the requested funds. She explained that psychological consultants should be receiving $60.00 per hour and will receive $25.00; other consultants should be receiving X40.00 per hour and will receive $10.00. She stated that there is a need for a paid volunteer coordinator which will not be met and they will not be able to expand community education programs, etc. She said that they will be pursuing other means of funding such as the Concord Court for family services and the schools. Both Mrs. Battin and Mr. Politi felt that funding should be as rec emended by the Human Services Committee of $51,000. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted, 3-2, Mrs. Battin and Mr,#- Politi voting in the negative, to support the Manager's recommen- dation for $40,488 funding for Community Services/RePlace. Account #2380 - Council on Aging - requested $27,664. The Manager explained that his recommendation of level funding would cover the basic program and an expanded four-day week meal program which will be run by the MinuteMan Home Care. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the t Manager's recommendation of $27,664 funding for the Council on Aging. 5 - 2 `iy\ l� t The Youth Commission request for $700 funding was discussed and the Manager recommended that $500 be allocated to the Commission from the Miscellaneous Boards & Committees Account #2370. The Board agreed to his recommendation and he is to so inform the Commission and request a report relative to future activities being planned. Account #3800 - Police -- requested $202,900. The Town Manager recommended $202,900. He explained that there are 6 vehicles operating in the patrol division at all times, 2 in the inspection and detective divis- ions, 3 in the administrative branch, 1 Town Manager car assigned to the police department for maintenance and 1 radar car. Four vehicles in the administration group are four cylinder Citations based on the policy of down-sizing vehicles for energy conservation. Mr. Hutchinson explained that when there is a break-down in the patrol division the radar car goes into the patrol division then the detective vehicle goes in, which means there are two vehicles down. The detective vehicle was in the patrol div- ision 15 times last year. He stated that, based on information available , the concept of having a larger size vehicle for operating personnel who may be involved in high speed chases, road blocks etc. is valid. He is to report back to the Board relative to down-sizing vehicles before bids go out next year relative to Mr. rain's suggestion that one of the inspector's cars could be down-sized. The Board sustained the requested $202,900 for the budget. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the Mana- ger's recommendation of a "zero" funding for CMARC. The request for $5,000 will be an article in the warrant. The budget requests of $210,000 for a new fire truck and $38,000 for mow air masks/compressors from the Fire Department were discussed. The Manager recommended full funding as requested. He explained that the ladder truck was not experiencing heavy maintenance problems, but felt that it was only a matter of time until it did. He also explained that ladders are now stand- ardized at 100 feet and it was his feeling that it was not cost effective not to provide this size as many of the houses in town would require this size. Mr. Busa suggested that the fire truck request be deleted and that the Chief come back at some time with a figure for maintenance of the present truck. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to delete the request of $210,000 for a new fire truck and support the request of $38,000 for air masks/compressors. LEXPRESS budget request of $186,500 was discussed with respect to Mr. rain's question as to whether or not the chair car could be provided within the Manager's recommendation of $176,000. The Manager stated that he felt that the chair car service could be provided from within the budget based on the estimated escalation cost of gasoline. He recommended level funding and provide chair car service and if problems were encountered, come back to the Board for a cut in service. The Board approved the Manager's recommendation of $176,000 for LEX- PRESS and provide chair carservice from within this budget. 3 Selectmen's Meeting January 27, 1982 � k The Recreation Department request for $70,000 for an outdoor track was discussed. The Manager recommended no funding for _this request. During the discussion, it was brought out that the School Depart- ment is the greatest user of the track but the Town really cannot charge for its use. Mt. Crain felt that the money spent on maintenance for the present track could be put to better use at some other recreation area and recom- mended funding the $70,000. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 3-2, Mr. Busa and Mr. Politi voting in the negative, to approve the Recreation Department request for $70,000 for an all weather track. The Manager recommended "zero" funding to a $5,000 request from the Recreation Department. for the Lincoln Street Play Area for study money. The Board concurred with the Manager's recommendation. The Manager recommended "zero" funding to a $145,000 request from the Public Works Department for street construction. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request for $145,000 for street construction for the following streets: Wellington Lane Meadowbrook Avenue Outlook Drive (a portion of the street only) { Public Works request for $175,000 for road machinery was approved by the Manager. He explained that the Capital Expenditures Committee had recommended eliminating funding for a sander requested. Mr. Tonaszuck explained to the Board present sanding trucks are old dump trucks from which the bodies were removed and put sanders on the chassis. Three of these were traded last year for a 10 wheel sander. He felt that it was very important to replace the remaining old sanders at this time in order to keep the sanding fleet up to par. The Board concurred with the Manager's recommendation for approval of the request for $175,000 for road machinery. Public Works request for 75,000 for a master water study was approved by the Manager. Mr. Tonaszuck explained that there are 153 miles of water main in town with an estimated replacement value of $30,000,000. There are over 41 miles of piping that was put in before 1935 and Mr. Tonaszuck feels that there should be a planned program for replacement. The Board approved the request for $75,000 for a master water study program. This concluded the discussions relating to budgeting and the Manager presented funding alternatives to deal with the $233,000 over levy. The Manager is going to meet with Dr. Pierson to go over the levy limit with him. He will then set up a joint meeting with the School Committee. - 4 - 1 Lex. Housing The Board discussed the request from Byron J. Matthews, Secretary, Authority Executive Office of Communities and Development for nominations for the Appt. appointment of the State member to the Lexington Housing Authority asImmai the term of William T. Spencer expired on January 27, 1982. M . Crain made a motion to reappoint Mr. William T. Spencer to the Lexington Housing Authority, Mr. Busa objected to the reappointment stating that he felt that if Mr. Spencer had been interested in the Housing Authority he should have run for the office. Mr. Politi also objected on the grounds that the Board was making a recommendation on one particular individual without notifying the public so that others could come before the Board with credentials and, at least, have the opportunity to have their name forwarded to the State as well if they were qualified candidates. Mr. Busa informed the Board that under his signature he has recom- mended Lillian T. MacArthur for the position. Mrs. Battin stated that she felt that the Board had bypassed the open process for appointments, and had a committee member who had served faithfully for one term and done a good job, his candidacy should be en- dorsed by the Board. It was agreed that the Chairman would forward a letter to Secretary Matthews stating that the majority of the Board of Selectmen recommended reappointment of William T. Spencer to the Lexington Housing Authority. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted, 3-2, Mr. Busa and Mr. Politi voting in the negative, to notify Secretary Matthews that a majority of the Board of Selectmen recommended the reappointment of Mr. William T. Spencer to the Lexington Housing Authority. There was no Executive Session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 10:30 P.M. A true record, Attest: t 1),A\ 0 N' Executive Clerk