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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1986-03-BOS-min f , I i) ) SELECTMEN'S MEETING v , i;jr I `µ` A i . March 3, 1986 A regular meeting of the Board of Sel ec tmen was held on Monday, March 3, 1986, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Marshall, Mrs. Battin, Mr. McLaughlin, Mr. Eddison, Mr. Dailey; Mr. Hutchinson, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. Mr. Marshall acknowledged that this meeting would be the last to be attended by Mrs. Battin and Mr. McLaughlin during their current terms as Selectmen. Neil Cronin, who had made gavels from historic Battle Green Elmwood for the retiring Selectmen, had asked the Chairman to present them on his behalf. Mr. Marshall did so and also presented pewter bowls to them from their fellow members and an engraved gavel, used by Mrs. Battin du r i n g her last term as Chairman of the Board. Mr. Hutchinson gave the two Selectmen flags, which had been flown over the Battle Green, from Town employees. Each of the remaining members and the Town Manager expressed their esteem and appreciation for their service to the Town and for the experience of having worked with two such dedicated Selectmen. MINUTES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of the Selectmen's Meeting on February 3, 1986, as presented. Mr. Marshall and Mr. Eddison, absent from that meeting, abstained. LOCAL OFFICIAL BONDS TREASURER/TAX COLLECTOR Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve Local Official Bonds for James R. Kane as Treasurer, in the amount of $180,000, and as Tax Collector, in the amount of $180,000. ASSISTANT TREASURER Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve Local Official Bond for Susan Adler as Assistant Treasurer, in the amount of $45,000. TON CLERK/ASSISTANT TSN CLERK { Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve Local Officials Bond for Mary R. McDonough as Town Clerk, in the amount of $8,000. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve Local Officials Bond for Mary Louise Herr as Assistant Town Clerk, in the amount of $8,000. 1 m r _2_ ABATEMENT, SEWER & WATER CHARGES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve abatement of Sewer User Charges in the total amounts of $420.54 and $10.32 for properties not connected to Town Sewer and therefore exempt from such charges; abatement of Water Receivables in the total amount of $404.25, because of incorrect meter reading and defective meter. LOCAL OFFICIAL BOND, TOWN MANAGER Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve Local Officials Bond for Robert M. Hutchinson, Jr. as Town Manager, in the amount of $50,000. CAMELLIA PLACE, BUSA REQUEST Mr. Hutchinson reported that he had referred the request of Alfred Busa for an all purpose easement from Camellia Place to Bedford Street, to the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for review and recommendations. The purpose of the request would be to allow southbound exiting traffic to enter Bedford Street at the Camellia Place traffic lights. Mrs. Battin reported on the opposition of the Center Revitalization Committee on the concept because of the impact and encroachment on the neighborhood. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 7:40 p.m. A true record, Attest: 47/(kalk Aiez-cr Marion . now jv,f‘ Executive Clerk 4 pm' SELECTMEN'S MEETING 4 ' March 11, 1986 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Tuesday, March 11, 1986, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Marshall, Mr. Eddison, Mr. Dailey, Mrs. Smith, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. Hutchinson, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Ms. Adler, Assistant to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. PUBLIC HEARING, BOSTON EDISON/ EMERALD STREET The Chairman opened a public hearing on the petition of Boston Edison Company for permission to install a utility pole on Emerald Street. Mr. Chisholm, representing the Edison Company, explained the purpose of the installation, at the request of the Town, for lighting of a home being constructed by VoTech School students. There being no further comments in favor or in opposition, the hearing was declared closed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to grant permission to Boston Edison Company to install one utility pole on Emerald Street, southwesterly side approximately 123 feet southwest of Bellflower Street and to lay and maintain underground laterals, cables and wires for the purpose ommft of making connections with such poles and buildings as said petitioner may desire for distributing purposes. COMPTROLLER CANDIDATE The Board interviewed Ruth Lewis, 41 Grandview Avenue, Melrose, a candidate for the position of Comptroller. Ms. Lewis, who has been employed as City Controller for Maiden, outlined her educational background and her professional experience to date. She informed the Board that she is the successful candidate for an opening in Melrose but that it would be possible for her to accept the Lexington job, if she is chosen. Selection of one of three final candidates will be made in the near future. MINUTES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of the Selectmen's Meeting on February 11, 19861 as presented. TRAFFIC COMMITTEE REPORT LACONIA STREET SPEED LIMIT The Board again reviewed the request of Laconia Street residents for lowered speed limit on that street and the recommendation of the Traffic- ema Safety Advisory Committee on the matter. Peter Chalpin, Chairman of the Traffic Committee, reported that records show that none of the six accidents which have occurred on Laconia Street in the past five years has been speed related. He indicated on a map the Town accepted and privately owned portions of Laconia Street and noted that the Town has jurisdiction only on the accepted portion. MEL _2_ For that reason and because no accidents could be attributed to speeding, the Committee recommended that the speed limit not be lowered to less than 30 mph. The Committee did recommend, however, installation of a Stop sign at Ridge Road and Laconia Street and continued monitoring of traffic under the Police Department Selective Enforcement Program. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the recommendations of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee on the request of Laconia Street residents, as set forth above. CENTER REVITALIZATION COMMITTEE REPORT WALTHAM STREET PARKING The request of Mr. Blake, Colonial Pharmacy, for several short term parking spaces adjacent to his store on Waltham Street was considered. Mr. Eddison, speaking for the Center Revitalization Committee, reported that in its review of the request, the Committee had also considered suggestions for alternate ways of providing such spaces on Massachusetts Avenue. He noted concerns of the Police Department regarding the adverse effects on traffic flow and safety resultant from addition of such spaces in these heavily used streets. The CRC recommended that there be no change in the existing pattern of parking on Waltham Street and Massachusetts Avenue. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the must recommendations of the Center Revitalization Committee that the request of Mr. Blake, as stated above, be denied. BOARD OF REGISTRARS APPOINTMENTS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Priscilla McGrath, 14 Winter Street to the Board of Registrars to fill the unexpired term of Reed Kingston Taylor to March 31, 1987; and to appoint Constance Foster, 5 Summit Road, to the Board of Registrars for a term of office to expire on March 31, 1989. These appointments are effective as of April 1 , 1986. TRAFFIC ITEM REFERRED Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to refer the request of Eric T. Clarke for redefining traffic flow at Mass. Avenue/Pleasant Street, to the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for its review and recommendation. ONE DAY LIQUOR LICENSE Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application of the Bicentennial Band for One Day Liquor License on April 12, 1986 for a benefit dance to be held in Keilty Hall, St. Brigid's Parish, mai from 8:30 p.m. to 12 Midnight. pima Selectmen's Meeting March 11, 1986 -3- COMMON CARRIER LICENSE Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application of Hudson Bus Lines for a Common Carrier License for one vehicle to carry passengers on Worthen Road between Park Drive and Bedford Street. WATER/SEWER ABATEMENTS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve abatement of sewer user charges for properties not connected to Town sewer and exempt from sewer user charges in the total amount of $196.08 and abatement of sewer and water charges for adjustment of estimates in the total amount of $19.60. RECREATION DEPT. OPENING DAY Upon motion dulymade and seconded, it was voted to approve the request p of Joan Halverson, Recreation Director, for permission to holdan opening F`"` day parade for the youth organizations and ceremonies at the Little League Field on April 26, 1986. VOTING PLACE ACCESSIBILITY Hutchinson explained the need to apply to the Director of Mr. Hu p nthe Sec. of State, for polling place exemptions from Elections,, Hall and Harrington ton School and askedaccessibility requirements for Cary a � re orted that the Chairmanbe authorized to sign the application forms. He p that the Permanent Building Committee will be conferring with him on the status of all polling places. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize Chairman Marshall to execute applications for exemptions as described above for Cary Hall and Harrington School. BRIDGE SCHOOL FIRE Mr. Hutchinson reported on a fire at the Bridge School, which had • d the Principal, tea chars students and He complimented or occurred that day. p resulted in no injuries to stude i hters for their actions whichusl The origin of Fire F had beeny' teachers. Two Firemen injured, but not seriously. the fire is under investigation. VERSAILLES RESTAURANT-SIDEWALK CAFE it was voted, as recommended by the pomm Upon motion duly made and seconded, to operate a permission to the Versailles Restaurant p Town Manager, to grant sidewalk cafe outside the 15, 1986 through October 31, restaurant from April cost o f �15�. 1986, unsi er the same leasing terms as in 1985 and at a rental per month. 4 -4- STEVE'S ICE CREAM vow The Town Manager noted the request of Steve's Ice Cream for permission to place benches on the sidewalk outside the store for use of patrons. He recommended that he be authorized to proceed with an experimental program, with a square footage rental fee consistent with charges to the Versailles Restaurant. Mr. Eddison voiced concern with littering and asked for provision of receptacles and signs to avoid increased litter. He also felt that there should be control over the design of the benches proposed. Historic Districts Commission will be contacted as to the bench design. In response to Mrs. Smith's question as to policing regarding altercations and turnover, Mr. Hutchinson said a plan will be developed to cover these aspects. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the Town Manager to develop an experimental program with Steve's Ice Cream whereby benches can be put out for patrons during the summer months, at a rental fee to be determined by the Manager, based on square foot usage of the sidewalk. RECREATION DEPARTMENT FEE SCHEDULE Mr. Hutchinson noted the request of the Recreation Department for an increase in swim tags, pointing out that the adult and family memberships have not been raised since 1984 and the youth/senior tags not since 1981. __ The requested increase would be $1.00 per tag which would bring Youth/Senior tags to $7.00 and adult tags to $16.00. Family memberships were raised from $40.00 to $45.00. All other fees in the schedule would remain the same as last year. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the revised fee schedule of the Recreation Department as presented. BUDGET REVIEW Mr. Hutchinson noted that most of the operating budget items had been agreed upon by the Board but asked for direction as to support of the recommended $21,000 appropriation for Mystic Valley Mental Health, rather than the $35,000 requested. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to support a $21,000 appropriation for Mystic Valley Mental Health, based on data provided. Mr. Hutchinson reviewed the proposed FY87 sidewalk program. He noted the Town's committment to progress with the program and recommended support of a requested appropriation of $110,000 for four projects: Mass. Avenue from Lexington Square to Waltham Street; Worthen Road/Bedford Street (near Medi-Mart); Pleasant Street from Concord Avenue to Lawrence Lane; and East Street. In the light of new membership of the Board, he asked if the consensus was still to support the program. No opposition was expressed by Board members. /44 Selectmen's Meeting March 11, 1986 -5_ The Manager listed major budget items still to be considered: a suggested raise in sewer and water rates to offset the 5O increase in MWRA charges; School Operating Budget; IMPRESS; Bowman School; Topographic Mapping; School Computer; Buildin ain ens ; IplrWealth Insurance. HANSCOM RAILROAD SPUR Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the Town Manager to send a letter of interest regarding acquisition of a railroad spur site adjacent to Hanscom Field, declared as surplus property by the Federal Government. Because of the interest of Massport in the land, Mrs. Smith abstained from voting. MERRIAM BEQUEST Mr. Cohen informed the Board of a $10,000 bequest by Robert C. Merriam, which is to be used toward acquisition of public land. He suggested it be included in the Conservation Fund and acknowledged by Town Meeting. Mr. Merr i am's brother is to be informed of the specific use of the fund. EXECUTIVE SESSION Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5 - 0 by roll call vote, Chairman Marshall, Mr. Eddison, Mr. Dailey, Mrs. Smith, Mr. McSweeney, to go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussion of litigation. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:58 p.m. A true record, Attest: (---/A0/ /60,4. Marion H. Snow - Executive Clerk ?-1 plimm SELECTMEN'S MEETING March 18, 1986 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Tuesday, March 18, 1986, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Marshall, Mr. Eddison, Mr. Dailey, Mrs. Smith, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. Hutchinson, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Ms. Adler, Assistant to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. BOSTON EDISON, CONCORD AVENUE CONDUIT Mr. Marshall opened a Public Hearing on the petition of Boston Edison Company for permission to install conduit in Concord Avenue. Carol McManus, representing Boston Edison, reported that the installation is necessary in order to provide electric service to *916 Waltham Street, With the exception of a memorandum from the Director of Public Works which recommended approval, there were no statements made in favor or in opposition and the hearing was declared closed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to grant permission to the Boston Edison Company to install approximately 8 feet of conduit in Concord Avenue southerly approximately 146 feet east of Waltham Street. PROCLAMATION, RED CROSS MONTH Dr. Daniel Yuill, Director of the Minuteman Chapter of the American Red Cross, was present to request that the month of March be proclaimed as Red Cross Month in Lexington and that the Red Cross flag be flown for that period in a visible community location. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to proclaim the month of• March as Red Cross Month and to request the Town Manager to make arrangements for the display of the Red Cross Flag during that period. STUDENT SELECTMEN, TOWN MANAGER Mr. Marshall introduced the Student Selectmen and Student Town Manager who were present for discussion of the request of the Transportation Advisory Committee for funding of LEXPRESS. LEXPRESS FUNDING, ARTICLE 38 Transportation Committee Chairman Sally Castleman, member Elaine Dratch and LEXPRESS Coordinator, Sara Arnold were also present. Mrs. Castleman reported that bids for LEXPRESS service had been received and felt that the Committee would recommend awarding the contract to Safety Transportation Co. Based on that company's bid, the cost for current level of service in FY87 o,.., would be $386,500, which with fare receipts and MBTA subsidy totalling $140,000, would call for a Town appropriation of $246,500. FY86 appropriation for LEXPRESS is $162,000 and that amount is recommended for FY87 by the Manager. The Committee presented three different configurations of reduced service which would require Town funding in the amount of $217,500; $194,500; and $174,500, respectively. The implications of cuts of service in terms of the elderly, students and others was considered. Mrs. Arnold submitted Town maps which illustrated proposed cuts and explained the rationale behind each of the options. It was pointed out that the Senior Center's lunch program, recently expanded, is well attended by elderly persons, many of whom probably travel there by LE PRESS. Options *1 and *2 would cut service from 11 a.m. to 12 noon on weekdays, which, it was felt, would impact the program and prohibit attendance by some. The effect on the needs of students and their parents who rely on the buses was also discussed and the financial impact of projected decrease in ridership resultant from service cuts was considered. With regard to decreased ridership, the actual cost to the Town per ride was calculated and Mr. Dailey pointed out that costs may become prohibitive at some point. He asked if thought is being given to avoiding duplication of services with respect to the availability of MBTA transportation in Town. Mr. Marshall asked for the help of Mr. Eddison, liaison to the Transportation Committee, in thinking through the proposals and their effects. He felt that more information was needed as to which type of riders would be served and which would be most impacted by each of the three options and asked the Committee to give its recommendation on which of the options it considered preferable on that basis. Mr. Eddison suggested that feedback from users would also be helpful. Mrs. Castleman added that other , more appropriate, options may also be developed and had not been ruled out at this time. The Board will consider its decision on the matter when the requested information has been provided. magi CRC REPORT, LEXINGTON CENTER Mar ger y Battin, Chairman of the Center Revitalization Committee, and members of the Committee were present for presentation of the Committee's Report "Lexington Center: Managing Change' . Mrs. Battin gave background on the need for formation of the group because of signs of lack of vitality and other growing problems with the Center. The major objective of the Committee, comprised of Selectmen, Planning Board and Chamber of Commerce representatives, has been to assure a healthy and diversified Center that serves the needs of the residents and the business community. Based on market, economic, land use and traffic and parking surveys that it had initiated, the Committee presented a set of policies for the Center and a program for future action. Mrs. Battin acknowledged members, past and present of the CRC, and those whose efforts made the report possible, including members of the Town staff, the Land Use Subcommittee, MAPC and Conservation Commission representatives, several Lexington businesses who provided help with preparation and analysis of a survey of residents and Lexington Center businesspeople. She made special mention of Norma Bogen, Planning Consultant, who had prepared the draft of the report. The report is dedicated to the late Jack Powell, who had served on the Committee for two years S,•a 0 Selectmen's Meeting March 18, 1986 _3_ The purpose of the evening's meeting was to seek Selectmen, Planning Board and Chamber acceptance of CRC findings, suppor t of Land Use and Development Policies and support of future program priorities. Norma Bogen showed a slide of the Center showing the Central Business Zone and peripheral areas, pointing out blocks of commercial development along Mass. Avenue. She gave CRC findings on the state of the Center, reported on its major strengths and pointed out the areas which need attention. Stephen Cripps reported on the role of the Center, retail , services and Office use, visual form of the Center with respect to scale, environment, character, improvements, amenities and appearance, adjoining residential areas, parkin and responsibility for parking, commercial growth and parking as a land use, As program components recommended by the CRC, Mrs. Battin listed organization, economic structure/land use, access - parking, circulation, and design and amenities. Under organization, she requested reconstitution of the CRC as a means of monitoring, coordinating and managing change in the Center. The committee would make an annual report on the state of the Center and would give its recommendations pertaining to the Center. Under 'Promotion' , Mrs. Battin recommended support of Chamber of Commerce promotions, a "Center Watch' , and design of a logo for the Center. She gave the priorities of the CRC as Design and Amenities, including revival of the Design Advisory Group; development of a visual plan; improvement of parking lots; design of public signs; attention to Emery Park and improvement of receptacles, benches, bike racks, restrooms, and bus shelters and, as the second priority, Access and Parking, i .e. increased parking and improvement of traffic flow. Laura Nichols showed a series of slides depicting rear entrances in need of redesign or renovation, need for monitoring of trash and litter, and some of the strengths and weaknesses of the Center as viewed from Mass. Avenue. The Committee proposed that the report be filed with the Town Meeting under Article 2 and Mrs. Battin asked that copies of the summary be prepared for Town Meeting members. With reference to the non-uniformity of signage and other examples of undesirable features pointed out by the Committee, Mr. Marshall questioned how the Committee could regulate the tastes of private property owners. He felt that improvement o f Emery Park could be accomplished and signage could be controlled, but that fragmented ownership in the Center would make uniformity difficult. Mrs. Battin responded that the CRC and Design Advisory Group would supply guidance rather than imposing control and should be considered as a resource to businesses. Mr. Cohen Cohen brought up two legal questions he has been asked on a number of occasions. The first concerns any future change in the height regulations for buildings in the Center. The second relates to hazards to pedestrians from cars exiting from the parking lot through the right-of-way between the bank and the liquor store. Pedestrians walking along the sidewalk have no warning that a car may cross the sidewalk from either direction. Regarding the nature and functioning of the Center Committee, Mr. Marshall asked whether it would be that of a conflict resolver or an advocacy committee and questioned whether it was appropriate that two Selectmen and two Planning Board members be on the committee. He suggested the existing structure minus representation of those Boards. Mrs. Battin felt that one Selectman and one Planning Board member should be appointed, plus Chamber of Commerce and neighborhood respresentation, adding that it would not be an advocacy committee. Mrs. Smith complimented the Committee on its report and the scope of work outlined and read the dedication to Jack Powell which she felt was appropriate and touching. Board members agreed that the report is an excellent one and the Committee was thanked for its presentation. MINUTES Upon motion duly made and seconded it was voted to approve the minutes of the Selectmen's Meeting on February 18, 198E, as presented, and of February 25, 1986, as corrected. mit Mrs. Smith and Mr. McSweeney abstained from voting. SELECTMEN'S ASSIGNMENTS A draft distribution of Selectmen's assignments as liaisons, representatives and members of various agencies was reviewed by the Chairman. Mrs. Smith reported that because of her involvement with Massport and was agreed to by Board members, she could not be a voting member of HATS. It was noted that a meeting of the Middlesex Zounty Advisory Board will take place on March 26th and Mr. McSweeney agreed to assignment as Lexington's representative to that Board. Mrs. Smith suggested that a Board member be designated as Liaison to the Planning Board, not for attendance at meetings but as a contact on issues of mutual concern. Mr. Marshall agreed and felt that a School Committee Liaison would also be helpful. Mrs. Smith agreed to act as Liaison with the Planning Board and Mr. McSweeney will take that responsibility with the School Committee. Distribution of assignments will again be looked at in May or June. and de Selectmen's Meeting -5- March 18, 1988 ACTING CHAIRMAN Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Mr. Eddison as Acting Chairman during any absences from Town of the Chairman from March 19, to March 25, 1988. TUESDAY MEETING NIGHT It was agreed that the possibility of changing the Selectmen's regular Meeting night from Monday to Tuesday would be considered after the completion of Town Meeting. FRANKLIN SCHOOL TENANT SELECTION COMMITTEE The reqeust of GBCD, developers of the Franklin School, for appointment by the Board of a tenant selection committee to deal with moderate income units was reviewed. The suggestion by Mr. Dailey that LexHAB be expanded to assume that responsibility will be explored by the Manager with LexHAB Chairman Hays. TRAFFIC ITEM Pew Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to refer the traffic �_._-- ---�- concerns expressed by the Traffic and Safety Committee of the East r Icon Community Association to the Traffic Safety Advisory-Committer4 or review and recommendation. ONE DAY LIQUOR LICENSE Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application of St. Brigid's Parish for One Day Liquor License for Saturday, March 22, 1996 at Kielty Hall, for a St. Patrick's Day Party. TRANSFER FROM RESERVE FUND Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve transfer from the Reserve Fund in the amount of $2,500 to Acct. #1065, Town Manager's Expenses, to cover unusual recruitment and Town Meeting printing expenses. ARTS COUNSEL FUND RAISER Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the proposal of the Lexington Counsel for the Arts to solicit funds through publicity in its calendar brochure. wog BUDGET REVIEW Mr. Hutchinson reported that the Mass. Water Resources Authority charges increase will total $380,000. He will attend a MWRA meeting on March 19 to review data on the charges. He recommended that thought be given to raising sewer user charges to offset these charges and that a Public Information beheld on a proposed rate structure. SCHOOL COMPUTER Information on the School Departmen's Computer request will be distributed in the weekend packet. SCHOOL BUILDING REHABILITATION Regarding the School Building Rehabilitation project, levels of cost and time period and method of financing are issues to be dealt with. Mr. Cohen urged focussing on the issue of overide and moving as quickly as possible once some firm figures are known and before new tax laws become effective in September, which will impact interest revenue on loans for construction projects. TOPOGRAPHIC MAPS ----Mr—Hutchinson noted that appror i at i on of $130,000 for preparation of '••""r updated topog aphis a-ps is recommended by the Land Use Departments, Engineering Dept. and himself. Mr. Edd i son and Mrs. Smith also expressed support for the project. Mr. Marshall saw the project somewhat less that urgent and Mr. Dailey said he was troubled by the expenditure in the light of the possibility of a 2 1/2 overide being contemplated for other expenses. Mr. Michelson, Capital Expenditure Committee, also questioned the necessity. BOWMAN SCHOOL FIELD Mr. Hutchinson recommended that an appropriation of $10,000, rather than his previous recommendation of $20,000, be recommended for Bowman School Field improvement and described the work to be done there to alleviate wet conditions. The Town Engineer had reported that because the area is peaty, up to $150,000 might be necessary for the full-scale project and that even with expenditure of $60,000, the finished field would still be wet. The $10,000 plan would include filling holes, minor grading, loaming and seeding, rather than extensive peat removal, drainage, plus filling, loaming and fertilizing, called for in the full scale plan. wad p"' Selectmen's Meeting -' - March 18, 1886 Upon motion duly made and secondid, it was voted to approve a recommendation of $10,000 for the Bowman School Improvement project. LOCAL AID DISTRIBUTION FORMULA 0 1 0 V Mr. Marshall had prepared a listing of cities and towns and had calculated the differences in amounts received in local aid and portions of revenue sharing reimbursement. He reported that Boston, New Bedford, Lawrence and Everett had received the largest percentages and are represented by politically influential legislators, while communities under Senator Kraus' jurisdiction had been among the lowest. Selectmen and Mr. Hutchinson will attend the Mass. Municipal Legi stlat i ve Conference on March 22, and will make a: effort to a: press a position in opposition to the revenue sharing reimbursement" portion of the local aid formula. EXECUTIVE SESSION Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5 -- 0 by roll call vote, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Eddison, Mr. Dailey, Mrs. Smith, Mr. McSweeney, to go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussion of collective mel` bargaining negotiations, matters of litigation and to investigate charges of criminal misconduct. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 11:15 p.m. I A true record, Attest: , AlAr a Ma ion H. Snow Executive Clerk r.. I I 1 3 1 7 i Palms SELECTMEN'S MEETING(; ti March 25, 1986 A regular meeting df the Board of Selectmen was held on Tuesday, March 25, 1986, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:00 p.m. Chairman Marshall, Mr. Eddison, Mr. Dailey, Mrs. Smith, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. Hutchinson, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Ms. Adler, Assistant to the Town Manager were present and Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, joined the meeting at 7:30 p.m. STUDENT SELECTMEN/TOWN MANAGER The Selectmen met for an informal briefing of the Student Selectmen and Student Town Manager regarding the roles and functions of the Selectmen and Town Manager in Town government. There was also brief discussion of the request of the Transportation Advisory Committee for funding of LEXPRESS, an issue which had been assigned to the students for the April 9th Student Government Day. BOSTON EDISON HEARING. INGLESIDE ROAD At 7:30 p.m. , the Chairman opened the Public Hearing on the petition of the Boston Edison Company for permission to install conduit on Ingleside Road. A memorandum from the Director of Public Works, recommending favorable action on the request, was noted. Carol McManus, representing Edison Company, explained the need for the installation to provide service to #30 Ingleside Road. There being no comments in favor or in opposition, the Chairman declared the hearing closed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition, plan and order of Boston Edison Company for the purpose of installing approximately three feet of conduit in Ingleside Road, approximately 1,817 feet east of Maple Street. LEXPRESS FUNDING - ARTICLE 38 Mrs. Castleman, Chairman of the Transportation Advisory Committee, member Mrs. Dratch and Transportation Coordinator Mrs. Arnold, were present for continued discussion of the LEXPRESS funding options. Mrs. Castleman outlined the alternatives for funding/service cuts presented on March 18 to the Selectmen. The Committee had met on March 24th to consider the pros and cons of each of the options and aspects of cuts in service whose impacts can not be defined at this time. She noted that re-education with respect to changes in schedule, efforts in marketing and other expenses relative to public relearning of the system are to be expected. Views of the Committee on preferred options were given by Mrs. Castleman. She reported that the T.A.C. supported retention of the full 8- oft route system with elimination of 3 holidays. They would rather cut weekday/noon service with a resultant $25,000 decrease than Saturday service, if that decision must be made. -------------- -2- Imo Regarding a 6-route system, it had been preferred by some members to cutting midday and Saturdays which it was felt would compromise the system. Mrs. Castleman pointed to possible improvement in bidders' prices because of the current decrease in fuel costs, which may change the picture slightly before Town Meeting. Student Selectmen asked questions of the Committee for clarification regarding ridership types, Share--A-Ride use, MBTA assessment, alternatives for elderly trips i.e. FISH, Stop & Shop transportation. Mr. Marshall asked for position statements from Board members. Mr. McSweeney said he had problems with decision on options without data on percentages of elderly/youth use. He noted observing empty or nearly empty buses at times and pointed out that the MBTA provides frequest runs, especially during rush hours. He questioned whether there was duplication of services. Mr. Dailey felt that thought should be given as to whether the Town can afford this transportation system in the light of consideration of override of Proposition 2 1/2. Regarding MBTA subsidy, he noted the possibility that it may not be forthcoming each year in the future. He acknowledged that great effort has been put forth by the Committee and Director to provide a transportation system but that the expense to the Town may become prohibitive. Mr. Eddison expressed great respect for the efforts and dedication of the T.A.C. but felt that it would not be possible for him to support the woo full request of the Committee. Regarding decision on cuts in service, he favored the 6-route system which seemed to him to preserve most of the structure of the system for the largest percentage of riders. Mrs. Smith pointed out that needs of other ridership types i.e. parents with young children should also be considered, referring to letters received by the Selectmen. She said her position would be in support of the full- proposal for current level service, with a fall-back position for the 6- route system. Mr. Marshall expressed support for the continuation of the system as it is, and funding of $246,500, with a 6-route system as a second alternative. Mr. Dailey said he would support Share-A--Ride and other necessary elderly transportation and would request information on costs for that level of service. Mr. Hutchinson will provide this data. Mr. McSweeney expressed agreement with Mr. Dailey's views. The Chairman asked for a motion regarding support of a level of funding under Article 32. Mr. Eddison moved for support of the 6-route system, with $174,500 Town appropriation. Mrs. Smith seconded the motion for purposes of discussion. Fred Rosenberg, former Committee member, recapped the original committee's thrust regarding provision of a transportation system for the Town and pointed out reasons that duplication of services have developed. He recalled that elderly/handicapped service had been previously rejected because of negative feedback from the elderly and others. �•m• Selectmen's Meeting March 25, 1986 f -3- Motion 3-Motion having been made and seconded to support an appropriation of $174,500 for a 6-route structure, it was voted 2 - 1 in opposition to appropriation in that amount. Mr. Marshall and Mrs. Smith in the negative; Mr. Dailey and Mr. McSweeney abstained from voting. Mr. Dailey moved, and Mr. McSweeney seconded the motion, that the Town Manager and the T.A.C. determine costs for providing transportation for special and elderly persons with the intent to consider voting to support an appropriation in that amount. Mr. Marshall, Mrs. Smith, Mr. Eddison voted negatively on the motion and it did not carry. Mrs. Dratch estimated a rate of $40,000 per vehicle at 7 or 8 hours a day, servicing 35 to 40 trips, all Dial -A- Ride. She also pointed out the availability of subsidies for taxies for elderly transportation. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 3-2, with Mr. Dailey and Mr. McSweeney voting in the negative to support an appropriation for funding of LEXPRESS of $246,500 to continue system operation at current levels. In response to Mr. Marshall, Mr. Dailey said he was requesting information and data on ridership in components and costs to provide service. Mrs. Castleman showed Town-wide dispersal of elderly ridership comprised of 40 - 50 persons, plus the elderly housing developments. Mr. Hutchinson was asked to provide alternatives to the Board. mat REPORT OF THE AUDITORS Mr. Perry, Comptroller and Messrs Russell and Kelly, CPA's of Arthur Andersen & Company, met with the ,Board by appointment for review of the company's Auditors' Report and FY85 Financial Statements. Mr. Russell summarized the results of the examination of the statements of various funds and account groups and reported that with the exception of the effects of current procedures regarding pension costs; fixed assets; and water and sewer activities, all processes appear to be in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles and that the Town is in sound financial condition. He pointed out the significant effect of the conversion of the system to a computer and noted other factors such as personnel issues which had resulted in later than usual submission of the company's reports. Recommendations for procedural changes regarding segregation of cash collection responsibilities; use of Lockbox for cash receipts; and special assessments receivables were made in the company's Memorandum on Accounting Procedures. Also recommended was adoption of UMAS enterprise fund accounting practices for those departmental operations whose fees are intended to recover costs of providing services to taxpayers, such as water and sewer. Other recommendations were given relative to data processing automation activities; payroll and purchasing cycle controls; and revenue cycle rim controls. 1 -4 . mod Mr. Russell spoke of always having enjoyed his working r el a t i o n shop with Mr. Perry and stated his respect for his competence. He wished the Town success in its search for a replacement for Mr. Perry, who will retire in the Spring. Mr. Marshall agreed with Mr. Russell that the task of replacement will be most difficult. He thanked the auditors for their presentation and the excellence of the report. FIREARMS LICENSES LEGISLATION Mrs. Judith Marshall of the League of Women Voters was present to request the support of the Board on legislation filed by Senator Keating regulating issuance of firearms licenses and to ask that a resolution be presented to Town Meeting expressing that view. She noted a letter from Representative Doran urging the Board's support. Mrs. Marshall explained that under current law, Police Chiefs are granted broad discretion in the issuance of handgun licenses and that Senator Keating's bill provided for uniform and realistic standards of procedure throughout the State. She asked for strong endorsement by the Town, as expressed by Senator Kraus, Representative Doran and Police Chief Furdon. Representative Do r an's letter, dated March 25, 1986$ was read by the Chairman. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to request the Town Manager to draft a letter of support of the Board of Senator Keating's Bill, mod 6.2632, and to authorize the Chairman to sign this document on behalf of the Board. CONTRACT 86-6-2. LAL CONSTRUCTION CO. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to award Contract 86-6--2, in the amount of $636,289.25 to LAL Construction Company, 50 Carl i sa Drive, Fall River , MA, for street, drain and sidewalk construction on Middle Street and Hancock Street. NICOLORO REQUEST. WINSHIP ROAD Mr. Hutchinson referred to the request of Mr. Nicoloro, 4 Winship Road, for Town improvement of Winship Road, a private way, as discussed with the Board on February 18, 1986. The Manager reported on agreement reached with Mr. Nicoloro whereby he would pay half the construction costs which are estimated to be $1,500. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the Town Manager to proceed with arrangements for temporary improvements to Winship Road, at a cost not to exceed $1,500, with Mr. Nicoloro paying half that amount in two payments. Selectmen's Meeting March 25, 1986 -5- r" Approval of this procedure is contingent on agreement by the neighbors. NORTHGATE HEALTH CARE SERVICES - TREETOPS OF LEXINGTON, Dennis Sargent, James Freeman and Frank Miller of Northgate Health Care Services, met with the Board to present features of a proposal for Treetops of Lexington, a development to provide congregate housing, apartments, independent housing and nursing home facilities for the elderly on Waltham Street, at the Lexington/Waltham line. Mr. Sargent described the project, illustrated by slides showing renderings of the structures proposed which would be residential in character. He noted that the developer, Paino Associates, had been sensitive to the wishes of the neighbors and the Town in general. Services offered to residents of the development include Long Term Care Facility with 142 beds; a chapel; a pub; gift shop; greenhouse; bank; and library. Mr. Sargent noted that despite all efforts made to provide a well designed and much needed facility, the Planning Board had withheld its approval primarily due to the lack of a second access. In response to questions from the Board, Mr. Sargent said that a deed restriction to ensure continuance of the units as rental can be discussed. Discussion continued on the range of rents and services offered in the pew congregate facility and nursing home. Mr. Marshall thanked the proponents for their presentation and the information provided. MINUTES, MARCH 3 & MARCH 11, 1986 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of Selectmen's Meetings on March 3, and March 11, 1986. GREELEY RESIGNATION, HISTORIC DISTRICTS COMMISSION Mr. Marshall noted receipt of the resignation of Roland B. Greeley as a full member of the Historic Districts Commission, and pointed out the Board's options of appointment of new member, or appointment of one of the Associates to full membership. The other members agreed with his suggestion that the acceptance of Mr. Greeley's resignation and the appointment be deferred until Town Meeting is • finished. RESOLUTION, LOCAL AID FORMULA Mr. Hutchinson submitted a resolution regarding the General Revenue Sharing component of the Local Aid Formula for the Board's consideration, which he had prepared following the Mass. Municipal Association Legislative __ Conference. -6- The resolution will be transmitted to Senator Kraus and Representative Doran and requests relief through an adjustment of the Local Aid Formula mow regarding provision of increased General Revenue Sharing fund replacement for the Town. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adopt, in principle, the resolution, subject to revision of its language. Mr. Eddison and Mr. Hutchinson will work on the revision for review on March 31st, when it will be presented to the Town Meeting. BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS Mr. Hutchinson presented suggested changes in the budget for the Board's concurrence. The total amount over the levy limit, not including an increase in LEXPRESS funding as voted that evening, was stated as $572,628. Adjustments to comply with the levy limit totalled $570,000. He noted that these figures do not take into account any decisions on photogrammetric services or the school computer proposal and debt. He recommended that if any further adjustments are made, the demand on free cash be lessened. APPROPRIATION COMMITTEE Mr. O'Sullivan, Chairman of the Appropriation Committee, distributed and reviewed Comments of the Appropriation Committee on Operating Budget, Article 4, and other financial articles of interest. He noted that under the operating budget, the other area of disagreement between the Selectmen o and his Committee appeared to be the Fire Department's request for a car for 'm the Assistant Chief. Under Article 23, Traffic Signal, Revere, Bedford, Hill Streets, the Committee has asked for additional information and is not supporting it at this time. A draft report on issues relative to the School Department Computer request (Article 28) was also distributed and reviewed as to the present school computer system; opportunities for acquisition; method of financing; and status of the article. TOPOGRAPHIC MAPS Mr. Marshall stated that he would not vote in support of the Topographic Maps project because he felt that due process had not been implemented regarding bids and because justification of the expenditure of such a large amount had not been provided. Mr. Hutchinson supported the project, in the light of heavy use by the land use departments, stating that the current maps are 15 years old and outdated. Mrs. Smith referenced a 5-year effort of the Planning Board to gain support for the project and pointed out that new development and drainage patterns have severely limited the usefulness of the current maps to the land use departments. Selectmen's Meeting -7- March 25, 1886 ,gym• Regarding the question of in-house mapping, she noted the time and costs involved and doubted that the quality would be as good. As had been previously suggested, she brought up the option of deferring other projects, such as some of the FY87 sidewalk construction, in favor of the mapping. Mrs. Smith moved that Article 26, Topographic Maps, by supported by the Selectmen. Mr. Eddison seconded the motion. Mr. Marshall, Mr. Dailey and Mr. McSweeney voted in the negative and the motion did not carry. SCHOOL RENOVATION PROGRAM Mr. Hutchinson informed the Board °tha the erma ent Building Committee is reviewing the School Renovation Program proposal and will be conferring with the School Committee. He recommended that the Board wait with any decisions on the issues involved until the Committee has reported. Mr. Marshall requested a ball-park figure on costs for the program, to enable the Board to decide on whether to support the building program, with or without referendum to override. Mr. McSweeney pointed out the option of the program in phases to avoid the need for override. There was brief discussion of State reimbursement processes. He was asked by the Chairman to confer with Permanent Building Committee to gain some insight into priorities. He and Mr. Dailey agreed to meet with the Committee. SENIOR HEALTH MONITORING PROGRAM FUNDING p.m Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to request the Trustees of Public Trusts to fund the Senior Health Monitoring Program in the amount of $3,750.00, as requested by the Human Services Committee. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to ad 'ourn a 11:20 p.m. L / 1. / t- da)^-61- A true record, Attest: &O'a on .qo Executive Clerk SELECTMEN'S MEETING jj , March 31, 1986 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, March 31, 1986, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:00 p.m. Mr. Eddison, Mrs. Smith, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. Hutchinson, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Ms. Adler, Assistant to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. Selectman Dailey joined the meeting at 7:20 p.m. ACTINO CHAIRMAN Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint John C. Eddison as Acting Chairman of the Board in the absence of the Chairman, Mr. Marshall. SCHOOL COMPUTER SYSTEM PROPOSAL Chairman Clough of the School Committee, Frank DiGiammarino, Julian Bussgang were present for review of the School Computer System proposal (Article 28). Mr. Clough stated that the current thrust of the School Committee is to satisfy educational requirement issues in that area. He outlined the needs which would be filled by replacement of the existing DEC PDP 11/70 with VAX 785 terminals for instructional use. Dr. Bussgang and Mr. DiGiammarino, members of a Committee which has been involved in obtaining bids for various systems, reported on four bids received and recommended acceptance of the VAX 785, at an actual cost to the Town of $130,000. Other costs involved i.e. set-up and maintenance, were briefly discussed. Further review of the proposal will be scheduled when a full Board is present. MINUTES MARCH 18, 1986 Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of the Selectmen's Meeting on March 18, 1985, as corrected. APPOINTMENT OF TOWN COUNSEL Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to reapoint the firm of Palmer & Dodge, 1 Beacon Street, Boston, as Town Counsel, for a term of one year. APPOINTMENT OF KEEPER OF THE LOCKUP p'"'` Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to reappoint Paul E. Furdon, Chief of Police, as Keeper of the Lockup for a term of one year. mew -2- RESOLUTION, LOCAL AID FORMULA A resolution requesting changes in the Local Aid Formula with respect to replacement of General Revenue Sharing Funds, revised by Mr. Eddison and Mr. Hutchinson, was reviewed. The resolution had been approved by the Board as to concept at the March 25th meeting. There were no comments in opposition to the rewording. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to present the Resolution to the Town Meeting, for adoption. PUBLIC HEARING, EDISON 7 N.E. TELEPHONE CO. , WALTHAM STREET Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition, plan and order of the Boston Edison Company and New England Telephone for relocation of a joint owned pole at 916 Waltham Street, to accommodate the installation of a new driveway at that address. The pole will be installed on the southerly side of Waltham Street, approximately 262' westerly of Concord Avenue. moo ABATEMENTS, SEWER CHARGES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve abatements of sewer charges from FY86 Real Estate Taxes, in the total amount of $62.05, and from DPW Sewer Revenue in the total amount of $89.87, for properties not connected to Town Sewer and therefore exempt from Sewer User Charges. REVIEW OF MOTIONS The Town Manager reviewed with the Board motions for Articles expected to be dealt withat that evening's session of Town Meeting. He recommended that the plan not to take Articles out of order be adhered to and felt that good progress could be made before the school vacation break. Financial articles and the Board's stand on each were walked through. He recommended that due to pending investigation on water leakage into gas tanks, motion should be made to table Article 6. Bids on replacement of tanks are now being obtained. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 7:40 p.m. A true record, Attest: CA4 LA,(1,-Z—Th Mar lion . Snow Executive Clerk um(