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SELECTMEN'S MEETING
June 2, 1986
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A regular meeting of tie Board of Selectmen was held on Monday,
June 2, 1986, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at
7:30 p.m. Chairman Eddison, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Dailey, Mrs. Smith; Mr.
Hutchinson, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Ms. Adler, Assistant to
the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk.
PUBLIC HEARING, RAYTHEON COMPANY, SPRING STREET
The Chairman opened the Public Hearing on the petition of Boston Edison
and New England Telephone Companies for permission to install conduit on
Bridge Street.
John Drury, representing the Telephone Company, was present to explain
the need for the installation to provide service to a new development on
Valleyfield Road. In response to the Chairman's request for comments, Gary
Patrick, 72 Bridge Street, asked to see the plan for the installation, but
voiced no objections.
There being no other statements in' f avor or in opposition, the hearing
was declared closed.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
petition, plans and orders of Boston Edison Company and New England
Telephone Company for installation of approximately ten feet of conduit in
Bridge Street on the easterly side at existing pole 59/16 located
approximately 6' northerly of Valleyfield Rd.
EXEMPLARY TEACHERS AWARDS
Catherine Boyd, Bowman School Teacher and George Southwick, Lexington
High School Teacher, recipients of DeMolay 1986 Exemplary Teachers Awards,
were present by invitation of the Board. Mr. Eddison stated that it was a
privilege to recognize the excellence in teaching demonstrated by both. He
read a statement of commendation and appreciation to Ms. Boyd and Mr.
Southwick conveying the Board's high regard to them in their role as
teachers and presented each with an original copy of the Resolution.
MINUTES MAY 5, MAY 7, MAY 12, 1986
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes
of Selectmen's Meetings on May 5, May 7, and May 12, 1986, as presented.
RESIGNATION, FAIR HOUSING COMMITTEE, BARAN
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept, with
!gm regret, the resignation of Stephen Baran from the Fair Housing Committee,
effective immediately. The Board expressed its thanks for his service on
the Committee and its best wishes to Mr. Baran in his new position as Human
Services Coordinator.
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APPOINTMENT OF COMPTROLLER
Mr. Hutchinson recapped the recruitment process which led to his
recommendation that John J. Ryan be appointed as Town Comptroller. He
outlined Mr. Ryan's background as Director of Finance and Administration for
the City of Peabody, and stated that he felt Mr. Ryan to be the best of all
candidates applying.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint John J.
Ryan as Town Comptroller, for a term of office to expire on May 31, 1989.
REAPPOINTMENT OF EXECUTIVE CLERK
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to reappoint Marion H.
Snow as Executive Clerk of the Board of Selectmen for a term of office to
expire on May 31 , 1987.
CLEAN WATER ACTION PROJECT RESOLUTION
James Reilly, Lexington's representative to the Mass. Water Resources
Authority Advisory Committee was present for the Board's continued
discussion of MWRA's efforts to increase water supplies and the request of
"Clean Water Action" for a Resolution in opposition to diversion of streams
into its Wachusetts and Quabbin reservoirs.
The proposed resolution emphasised only one of several options now
under consideration for increasing the water supply and Mr. Reilly advised
the Selectmen not to foreclose any of the other alternatives. He urged
strong support for water conservation, but recommended that the Board not
endorse the "non-diversion" resolution at this time pending receipt of
information which will be developed through a series of public meetings on a
long-range MWRA water study to be held this month, which he will attend.
He informed the Board that 25 to 30% of the water extracted from the
two reservoirs is unaccounted for between the distribution system and the
communities served, due to some extent to legitimate uses such as sewer
flushing, fires and the watering of playing fields, but largely due to major
leaks which must be found.
Mr. Eddison asked that Mr. Reilly return to the Board when more
information is available after the public meetings.
PROCLAMATION, WATER CONSERVATION WEEK
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to proclaim June 7th
to June 13th, 1986, as Water Conservation Week in Lexington, in conjunction
with the Governor's acknowledgement of this effort, as requested by the
Mass. Water Resources Authority.
BRICK STEP RECONSTRUCTION CONTRACT mat
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Selectmen's Meeting June 2, 1986
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Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to execute Contract
*86-9-E, Brick Step Reconstruction, in the amount of $15,125.00, awarded at
a meeting of the Board of Selectmen on April 28, 1986 and subject to the
approval of Town Counsel as to form.
LIMOUSINE LICENSES
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
application of Rinn Corporation d/b/a Avanti Limousine Service, 12 Hayward
Avenue, for renewal of Limousine License for one vehicle to expire on
May 31, 1987.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
application of Liberty Limousine Service, Inc. , 52 Waltham Street, for
Limousine License for one vehicle, to expire on May 31, 1987.
SEWER CHARGES, LYONS, 389 WOBURN STREET
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Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to abate sewer charges
in lieu of betterment, in the amount of $2,613.97, for property at 389
Woburn Street, Lot *53-5, inadvertently signed at a previous Selectmen's
Meeting and consequently processed, though never approved.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve sewer
charges in lieu of betterment in the amount of $1,450.19, for property at
389 Woburn Street, and to execute a notice of sewer charges in lieu of
betterment. In addition to the charge of $1,450.19, 5% interest on the
balance will be due for a period of 10 years.
TRAFFIC ITEMS TO TRAFFIC SAFETY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
SCHOOL STREET AREA/BRIDGE SCHOOL STUDENTS' WALKING ROUTE
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to refer the request
of James R. Maclnnes, Director of Business Services, Lexington Public
Schools, that traffic safety issues relative to the walking route of Bridge
School students from the School Street area be addressed, to the Traffic
Safety Advisory Committee for its review and recommendations.
TRAFFIC CONDITIONS, ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS, LWV STUDY
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to refer the concerns
p'""' expressed by the League of Women Voters based on a Town-wide study, to the
Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for review and recommendations. The
issues to be addressed are: lack of uniformity in the marking of school
entrances and approaches; crossing guard coverage; installation of
sidewalks; lowered speed at school entrances.
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Mr. Eddison commended the League for its report on traffic conditions
as listed above and the recommendations given. A letter will be written to
the League Chairman expressing the Board's appreciation.
EXTRA WORK ORDER #1, GRANT ST. RESURFACING
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve Extra Work
Order #1, in the amount of $26,512.12 from Article 31, 1983, to Starrett
Paving Corporation, for resurfacing of Grant Street under Contract *85-2, as
recommended by Walter J. Tonaszuck, Director DPW/Engineer.
ABATEMENT OF SEWER AND WATER CHARGES
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve abatement
of sewer charges in the total amount of $331.10, to adjust estimates and
meter card readings and for properties not connected to town sewer; to abate
water receivables in the total amount of $124.85, to adjust estimates and aro
meter cards; and to abate sewer charges appearing on FY86 Real Estate bills
in the amount of $60.05, for properties not connected to Town sewer and
exempt from sewer charges.
ONE DAY LIQUOR LICENSE, W. R. GRACE
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
application of W.R. Grace Company RAEDACC, for One Day Liquor License on
June 24, 1986, at 55 Hayden Avenue, for an employee retirement party.
MAPLE, LOWELL STREETS -- REQUEST FOR LOWERED SPEED LIMIT
Ruth and Bruce Lynn, 33 Maple Street, were present on behalf of Lowell
and Maple and Summer Street petitioners for lowering of the 40mph speed
limit on those streets to 35mph.
The Town Manager had received a response to his request to Secretary
Salvucci, D.O.T. , for a State study of speed limits on the three streets
(Rte. 2A) which listed factors which led to the State's determination that
the currently posted speeds can not be lowered. The letter, from Robert L.
Shea, Traffic Engineer, State DPW, stated that at this time, 85% of cars
exceed the 40mph limit. If the limit were to be lowered, 90% would be in
violation. Mr. Shea also stated that the sight distance is straight and can
be seen for several hundred feet in both directions on Rte. 2A.
The Town Manager, in response to Mrs. Lynn's question about recourse,
said an appeal could be made to the State to reverse its decision, but '""""io
recommended installation, on a local level, of "Caution Children" signs.
Mrs. Smith suggested that existing speed limits be enforced since 85% are
going over the limit now.
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Selectmen's Meeting June 2, 1986
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Mr.
5._Mr. Lynn spoke of a blind spot at an incline on Maple Street near his
home which hides the presence of children and animals who might be crossing
at that point. He disputed the logic of the State's findings and asked that
a statement of traffic conditions on Rte. 2A be presented to the State which
he felt would justify a lowered speed limit. Mrs. Lynn noted that the speed
limit on Summer Street in Arlington is 30mph and changes to 35mph in
Lexington. She felt that the Town should have more control in establishing
rates of speed on roads within its boundaries.
Questions were raised as to standards and criteria used by the State in
arriving at speed limits for roads under its jurisdiction. The Manager
suggested that, after concerns have been registered with the State, Mass.
DPW officials be invited to a meeting to explain the methodology for this
procedure. He also agreed that the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee could
be asked for its recommendations for appropriate speed limits.
Mrs. Lynn asked if the Town could investigate and make a strong
plum statement that speeds on all Town streets be kept under 35mph and that State
traffic engineers personally survey traffic conditions.
Mr. Eddison summarized the sense of the Board as wanting a review of
the matter by Town staff and the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee to get
the most information possible. He pointed out the portion of Maple Street
with the blind spot, as noted by Mr. Lynn, with respect to poor sight
distance there. After this information has been gathered, the Traffic
Safety Committee, abutters, and the State DPW Traffic Engineers would be
asked to attend a Selectmen's meeting for discussion of the situation.
STATE GRANT OF I/I CONSTRUCTION
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the
Lexington Town Manager to act on behalf of the Town of Lexington
(hereinafter referred to as the "Applicant") , as its agent in filing
applications for, executing agreements regarding, and performing any and all
other actions necessary, to secure for the Applicant such grants and grant
payments for the design and construction of sewage treatment facilities as
may be made available to the Applicant, pursuant to the provisions of the
Massachusetts Clean Waters Act (M G.L. c.21, section 25.53, inclusive, as
amended), or other special Act of the General Court, for the construction of
the following facilities: I/I Rehabilitation Construction.
HARTWELL AVENUE/BEDFORD STREET/MARRETT ROAD
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Due to the illness of both the Town Engineer and the Director of Public
Works, the Town Manager asked that the progress report on the road
improvement plans for Hartwell Avenue, Bedford Street, and Marrett Road be
postponed. He reported that obstacles have been encountered on certain
aspects of the Bedford Street plan to do with the proposed traffic light at
Eldred Street, which the State opposes.
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Regarding the Marrett Road plan, District Highway Engineer Mistretts, State
DPW, had stated a requirement, among others, for updated traffic volume data
and the widening of the driveway entering Forbes Road. All available
information on the road plans will be provided at the Selectmen's June 17th
meeting, with all professional staff present.
LIONS CLUB CARNIVAL
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request
of the Lexington Lions Club for use of the Center Playground on June 30,
July 2,3,4,5 and 6, 1986, for set-up, operation and clean-up of the annual
4th of July Carnival.
CONTRACT, SIDEWALK RECONSTRUCTION
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to award Contract 86-
7-E, in the amount of $33,218.60, to Highway Paving, Inc. , North Billerica,
MA. for sidewalk reconstruction, subject to the approval of Town Counsel as moo
to bid form.
REAPPOINTMENTS TO COUNCIL ON AGING
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
reappointment by the Town Manager of Dorothy Boggia and Gladys Scanlon to
the Council on Aging. Mr. Eddison stated that he had worked with both as
liaison to the Council on Aging and had found them to be valuable and
dedicated workers on the Council. Mr. Hutchinson will convey the
compliments of the Board to Mrs. Boggia and Mrs. Scanlon.
HURRICANE GLORIA
The Manager acknowledged excellent work of Fire Chief Bergeron in '
coordinating the application process regarding reimbursement for expenses
incurred from Hurricane Gloria. Federal and state payments to the Town
totalled $123,412, which covered most of the Town's expenses in repairing
damage to municipal trees and fire alarm equipment; and overtime incurred by
town workers during the storm.
AWARD OF MERIT - GEORGE A. SMITH
Mr. Hutchinson reported that George Smith, Health Director, will be
receiving the Certificate of Merit Award from the National Environmental moo
Health Association for his contributions in the field of
public/environmental health. The Chairman will acknowledge this
accomplishment in a letter to Mr. Smith.
Selectmen's Meeting June 2, 1986
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omen LINCOLN LAND PP OPOS L
The Town Manager noted the Lincoln Special Town Meeting scheduled f o rr
June 16th to corder tsar 3 ou. op t i circ= , for uce of 47 acres of land near the
Lexington line. Proposed uses include affordable housing and commercial
development , which may be able to help fund the housing.
Mr . Hutchinson and Mr . Edd i so n will confer with Lincoln Selectmen
regarding the proposed commercial development and the impact of the more
intense use on Mar r e t e Road traffic.
TRASH COLLECTION
Mr . Hutchinson reported that recent problems i th trash collection
contractors appear to have been solved and that pick-up should be nack on a
regular schedule within a week . He expressed his appreciation for the
patience of the public during this period.
TRANSFERS FROM RESERVE FUND
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was }noted to apprcwe transfer
from the Reserve Fund to the following accounts
Acct . 01-06-158, Elections $1 ,030.00
Acct . 01-004-102, Town Manager Expense $1 ,000.00
Acct . 01-26-145, Repair & Maintenance $2,000.00
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FOL I u t ON TR UU[`K } =ENC+OR S
The Chairman aseed t c r the u I ew of the Board on permitting Frey+dor,E to
operate from trucks on Town Streets. All members agreed that the policy not
to perrni t such operations should be reaffirmed on the basis of traffic and
pedestrian safety .
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 - 0 by roll call
vote, Mr . Eddi son, Mr . Marshall , Mr . Dailey, Mrs. Smith, to go into
Executive Session for discussion of matters of land acquisition, with no
intent to resume opens session.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at
9.1t p.m.
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A true record, fittest : / f 0s66
-rion H. Snow
Executive Clerk
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SELECTMEN'S MEETING
June 17, 1986
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Tuesday,
June 17, 1986, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at
7:30 p.m. Chairman Eddison, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Dailey, Mr. McSweeney; Mr.
Hutchinson, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Ms. Adler, Assistant to
the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. Selectman Smith
arrived shortly after the start of the meeting.
PUBLIC HEARING, RAYTHEON COMPANY
The Chairman opened a Public Hearing on the petition of Raytheon
Company for permission to place cable in an existing conduit on Spring
Street. Leo Lecassie, representing Raytheon Company, explained that the
installation is necessary to provide additional telephone service. Raytheon
would lease the conduit, owned by the New England Telephone Company, pending
approval by the Board of Selectmen.
There being no statements offered in favor or in opposition, Mr.
Eddison declared the hearing closed.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 - 0 to approve the
petition, plans and orders of Raytheon Company for permission to place cable
in existing conduit in Spring Street in an existing underground conduit
which extends 62 L.F. from existing N. E. Telephone Company manhole *54/188
on the north side of Spring St. in a southerly direction to existing utility
pole *90/34, approximately 100' of Hayden Avenue. Mrs. Smith abstained from
voting since she had not been present for the entire hearing.
LINCOLN LAND PROPOSAL/MINUTE MAN NATIONAL PARK
Mr. Eddison recapped a proposal by the Town of Lincoln for development
of 47 acres in Lincoln near the Lexington line, 31 acres of which would be
used for affordable housing with the remaining 17 acres to be used for
commercial development which would provide financial support for the
housing. A buffer zone, separating the National Park from the residential
development is planned as well as relocation of Old Bedford Road to reduce
traffic congestion. The plan is contingent upon rezoning of the entire
parcel to PUD zoning to allow mixed residential and commercial use.
A Special Town Meeting held in Lincoln on June 16th had approved the
rezoning and the purchase of 31 acres between the National Park and
Massport. A referendum was held on June 17th for override of the limits of
Prop. 2 1/2.
Mr. Eddison suggested a meeting with the Lincoln Selectmen after the
outcome of the referendum is known. He added that Lincoln is interested in
commercial development not only for financial support for the housing, but
for assistance from the commercial developer with realignment of Old Bedford
Rd. and Virginia Rd. He was not in favor of the latter process which might
be used by developers to gain rezonings. He saw a threat regarding traffic
impact from the commercial development, which could be intensive.
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Mr. Eddison reported on a meeting with National Park Service officials
regarding the future of the Park. He outlined alternative plans presented
as:
1. Minimum action on changes to the Park
2. Total reconstruction of Rte 2A and relocation out of the Park
3. An urban parkway
4. A "string of pearls" which would mean re-creation in five spots of
1775 events.
5. Development of a variety of tour routes.
With respect to the Lincoln proposal, Mr. Eddison noted that Lincoln is
flexible and wants involvement of neighboring towns in the planning process.
Mr. Marshall said he was troubled by the traffic impact which would
result from the commercial development proposed. He also felt that
Lincoln's low-income housing would be isolated, not integrated as in
Lexington, and therefore would not meet social goals. He questioned
locating the housing on the out-skirts of Town, near the airport.
Mr. Eddison agreed that there are many unresolved questions but that
Lincoln seems aware of that fact.
Mr. McSweeney reported that at a recent HATS meeting, no opposition was mow
apparent from the National Park Services Denver Team but that the Massport
representative was not in favor of housing at that location.
The Central Transportation Planning Service (CIPS) is now conducting a
traffic count which will be ready for the next HATS meeting in September.
In Lexington, only the portion of Rte 2A from Rte 128 west to Concord will
be included.
Mrs. Smith, with reference to the new road system proposed by the
National Park Service, noted that that work would be funded by the State.
Mr. Marshall added that the Park Service should be reminded that the
automobile in these days is a major means of transportation and that the
Park should be planned in such a way as to accommodate auto travel, not
exclude it.
Mr. Eddison agreed with Mr. Dailey that Lexington's main concern is
traffic impact and not the type and location of housing.
Mrs. Smith suggested that the project be followed closely from the HATS
perspective. She added that additional housing and commercial developments
are planned for the air base and should be factored in as well.
The Board agreed that a meeting with Lincoln Selectmen should be
scheduled after the results of the Referendum are known for further
discussion of the proposal and its ramifications.
MINUTES - MAY 1e
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes
of the Selectmen's Meeting on May1 198 as �..�
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Selectmen's Meeting June 17, 1986
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RESOLUTION - RICHARD M. PERRY,
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve a
Resolution to acknowledge the appreciation of the Board for the excellent
service to the Town of Richard M. Perry, former Town Comptroller.
LUMBERYARD REALTY TRUST - CAMELLIA PLACE,
Mr. Hutchinson reported on administrative and engineering positions on
the proposal of Lumberyard Realty Trust for access from its property to
Camellia Place and exiting onto Bedford Street with suggested adjustment to
the traffic signal cycle. The Manager expressed doubt that the adjustment
to the light cycle would provide a solution and asked that the proponent,
Alfred Busa, address that issue. He felt that exiting from Camellia Place
was a rational solution, but pointed out that parking spaces and training
area for the Fire Dept. would be lost. He saw need for time to work out
these aspects of the proposal.
Mr. Tonaszuck, Director of Public Works/Engineering, noted that the
Fire Dept. has had problems with congestion regarding safe exiting and
manuevering of fire vehicles which the impact of the new development would
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compound.
Mr. McSweeney suggested widening of Camellia Place to ease exiting.
Joyce Miller, Chairman of the Conservation Commission, said she had not
seen a topographic plan of the proposed easement location, but felt that her
Commission would have trouble approving road construction over the brook
located there, which would have the potential for adverse effect.
Mr. Busa responded that he was confident that the requirements of the
Wetland By-Law could be satisfied. He added that the Trust is willing to
cooperate, as evidenced by the traffic study submitted as requested, and
that he will work with the Conservation Commission regarding its concerns.
He stated that financially, the best time for addressing the entrance/exit
issue was during the planning process for construction of his facility, but
if that is not possible, he would have to live with the Bedford Street exit.
Mr. Eddison recommended that the Conservation Commission confer with
Mr. Busa and would give some indication as to approval or suggest some
acceptable alternative.
Mr. Marshall said he would consider the option of waiting to decide on
a solution until both the Busa and Custance developments are in operation
and their impacts known.
Mrs. Smith saw a need for attention to the area as a whole regarding
traffic and environmental issues.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the Town
Manager to work with Mr. Busa and the Conservation Commission, and the
Planning Board, to explore what can be done to move toward a solution.
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Mr. Dailey added that as a first step, Mr. Busa should provide a
detailed plan showing location of the proposed easement.
APPROVAL OF APPOINTMENTS TO HANSCOM FIELD ADVISORY COMMISSION
The Board reviewed a list of nominees for membership on the Hanscom
Advisory Commission, representing local citizen groups, area-wide
organizations, businesses basing aircraft at Hanscom and aviation related
businesses, submitted to the Selectmen of Lexington, Concord, Lincoln and
Bedford for approval.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve
appointments to the Hanscom Field Advisory Commission, with terms of office
of three years, of the following:
Robert Domnitz, representing the Merriam Hill Association
Jane Farmer, representing the League of Women Voters
Henry Wilholm, representing Digital Equipment Corporation
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Michael Dye, representing Jet Aviation
Mrs. Smith suggested that periodic conferences be scheduled with
Lexington's representative on the Commission to be kept informed of
developments at the airbase.
APPOINTMENTS - TOWN CELEBRATIONS COMMITTEE wow
The Board reviewed a letter from Chairman Fitzgerald of the Town
Celebrations Committee, requesting reappointment of four members whose terms
will expire on June 30th. William Fitzgerald, Raymond Flynn, Robert
Jackson, and Jean Coates were complimented as being oustanding and valuable
members with experience by service on the Committee for several terms. It
was agreed that the Committee be expanded by appointment of 2 or 3 Associate
Members, to ensure carry-on in the planning of annual observances.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to reappoint the
following members of the Town Celebrations Committee for terms of office to
expire on June 30, 1986:
William J. Fitzgerald, 65 Liberty Avenue
Raymond J. Flynn, 310 Concord Avenue
Robert C. Jackson, 67 Colony Avenue
C. Jean Coates, 30 Donald Street
TOWN REPORT COMMITTEE AND ARTS COUNCIL APPOINTMENTS
Mr. Eddison noted the request of the Town Report Committee that
appointment/reappointments to that Committee be made by July 1st, rather
than by September 30th, because its heaviest work load period occurs in late
summer and early fall. Erna Green, will supply a list of those willing to
continue to serve and suggestions for new members.
Kerry Brandin, Chairman of the Council for the Arts, had also requested
early appointments for her Committee, to become effective on September 30.
ago
The Council prepares its calendar during the summer and would like to list
any new members in it.
The Board had no objections to these adjustments.
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Selectmen's Meeting June 17, 1986
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CENTER REVITALIZATION COMMITTEE
Mr. Eddison suggested that the existing Center Revitalization Committee
be discharged preparatory to the formation for a new Lexington Center
Committee to be charged with continuing the process of managing change in
the Center.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to dissolve the Center
Revitalization Committee, with appreciation for its hard work in fulfilling
its charge.
MARRETT ROAD AND NORTH LEXINGTON ROAD IMPROVEMENT PLANS
MARRETT ROAD
Dick Cooke of Boston Survey Consultants, was present to give a status
report on plans for improvements to Marrett Road. He noted the requirement
by the State DPW for an update of the 1981 traffic count, which is now being
conducted and the widening of the driveway entering Forbes Road. He
recounted the 5-year experience of attempts to implement the improvements
including an amended plan to avoid land taking of Park Service land.
Regarding the ongoing traffic count, to be completed in 2 or 3 weeks,
certain changes have been noted i.e. more traffic on new Mass. Avenue and
less at Forbes Road. These changes may require modifications of traffic
signals cycles. He pointed out that the proposed Lincoln and Hanscom Field
developments will both impact Rte 2 traffic.
Regarding the plans for relocation of Rte 2A outside the National Park,
which he showed on a map, he felt that that feature of the Park Service's
plans if ever implemented would be in the distant future.
Mr. Cooke estimated that it was likely to take 2 or 3 years to get
final approval of Rte 2A improvement plans by the State and Federal agencies
involved, but with constant attention, that period could be reduced to 18
months.
Mr. Marshall recapped the Board's compromise regarding the Park Service
refusal to cooperate with land taking and approval at that time of the
revised plan by State officials. He expressed frustration at yet another
delay 16 months after approval of the compromise plan.
Mrs. Smith suggested that the Board authorize staff to press for quick
action by the State and F.H.A. on the plan as accepted and asking for
assistance from our Legislators in expediting the process.
Mr. Hutchinson advised asking State officials to meet with the Board in
30 days when the traffic count update has been completed.
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Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the staff
to mrr+)e 1 i 1 +h al i due speed and acr? ty to meet with state officials,
stating to tnerc that the _ tat l e t i ca: traffic update has been completed as
requested and that the Town is satisfied with the road alignment proposed. moo
Further , that the plar is seen as the final des gn for irripro,fenien t of Pte 2A
sn ri -"-,3t the Board f.t2}l t s to see project
BEDFORD STREET
Mr . Cooke reviewed the history of plans for improvement with Bedford
Street an d showed a plan developed several years ago , which was to have
mooed forward.
Area residents opposed the plan, which provided no direct access to Eldred
Street and had other features they considered objectionable, such as the
number of lanes and lack of green space. The North Lexington Road
Improvement Study Committee was formed and gave its recommendations for a
revised plan, which was developed by BSC Engineering to accommodate these
recommendations.
The State did not accept the compromise plan , chiefly because of
traffic lights and direct access to Eldred Street , which it was felt would
cause back-ups during peak hours, but the State still felt that the plans
could not be approved with the Eldred Street lights.
Mr . Cooke recapped State DPW latest requirements or the compromise,
stated in a letter dated June 4, 1986, which he said showed inconsistencies
with prior approvals .
George Burnell , Chairman of the North Lexington Road Improvements Study
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Committee, stated that the 1984 plan had been unacceptable to all in North
Lexington eecept for the business community. He felt it imperative to push Now
forward with the compromise plan.
Mr . Marshall responded that the situation should be put into
perspective and that even though Precinct 7 had opposed the 1984 plans a
large portion of the Town had accepted i t . He felt the State's disfavor of
the Eldred Street light could be legitimate with regard to back-ups to the
ramp and that if the newer plan is rn o t accepted quickly , the 1984 plan
should be implemented.
Mr . Eddisor, said he was not at the point of giving up on the compromise
plan and was willing to try for its approval until convinced that the State
has seriously considered the concessions made because of neighborhood
objections. He added that he felt the residents would be willing to glue up
the Eldred Street lights during peak hours to have it available at other
times.
Mr. Dailey noted that a great deal of time had been spent developing a
good plan and felt that exploration should be made as to the possibility of
its approval before giving up on it.
Mrs . Smith also felt it was hood sense to e•rpl=ire all possibilities and
make every effort to get definitive answers as to t r e reasons the plan is
unacceptable. She was in agreement with Mr . Marshall's view on the Eldred
St. light, adding that it could be a stumbling block .
Mr. Hutchinson said that at this critical point , State officials at ars
appropriate leve1 should b e m e t with a n d asked t o r specific reasons f o r
disapproval and if the Eldred Street light is the ma2or reason for the
Staters position.
Selectmen s Meeting June 17, 1986
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oft
He felt that Senator Kraus and Representative Doran should also be present .
Mr . Marshall stated that he would not want to make a judgement that
nigh' but felt that a deadline DI' this fall should be established for makirq
a decision after all facts are known .
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted that the Town Manager
be authorized to work with State officials and others necessary to attempt
to determine whether the North Lexington Road Improvement plan is viable in
the sense that components of the plan will be approved by the State DpW,
HANDICAPPED PARKING SPACES, MUZZEY STREET
The Board reviewed the recommendations of the Enablement Committee or.
the request of Dr. Zangara, 19 Muzzey Street, for relocation of handicapped
parking spaces from the corner of Mass , Avenue and Muzzey Street , to 19
Muzzey Street , which he felt would be advantageous for his patients'
At the time of consideration of the request on November 5, 1985, the
Board had voted to accept the recommendations of the Center Revitalization
Committee to move the space, subject to the review and recommendations of
the Enablement Committee or, the matter ,
The Enablement Committee had recommended, in a letter dated June 5,
1986, that the existing location of the parking space was preferable since
it is the closest one to the Center . The Committee suggested that an
additional handicapped space be provided at 19 Muzzey Street .
It was noted that the Center Revitalization Committee was not willing
Pima
to have an additional space on Muzzey Street designated for handicapped
parking.
Upo� motion duly made and seconded, it was voted rc 'escAnd the vote nf
the Board on November 5, 1985, which had authorized the relocation of the
handicapped parking space from the corner of Muzzey Street and Massachusetts
Avenue to #19 Muzzey Street .
POLICY ON TRUCK VENDOR OPERATIONS
Mr , Eddison had submitted proposed wording for a policy not to permit
vending from trucks in heavy traffic areas of the Town. He explained that
several inquiries had been made of the Selectmen 's Office for permission to
sell ice cream.
It was agreed that the item would be tabled.
SCHOOL BUILDINGS ASSISTANCE PROCESS
Mr , Hutchinson reported on the status of the submission to the School
Buildings Assistance Board for funding of the school renovation project . He
said the news that day was positive and that Lexington' s application was on
the June 24th SBAB agenda. All Lexington school projects are proposed for
approval , with staff recommendations for 60% reimbursement.
In answer to questions about a guarantee that the State s annual
approval of funding in the future, Mr . Hutchinson thought it unlikely that
rft the State would withhold approvals since it had never been the case.
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LEXINGTON MINUTE MAN REQUEST FOR MINUTES
The Town Manager acknowledged a letter from District Attorney
Harshbarger relating to a complaint from Ms. Elizabeth Banks of the
Lexington Minute-Man. Ms. Banks alleged that the Town violated the Open
Meeting Law by failing to make public the minutes of the Executive Session
of April 9, 1986 dealing with the Mews Property. Mr. Harshbarger ruled that
the executive minutes need not be released to Ms. Banks since they deal with
litigation strategy on a pending matter.
Mr. Cohen noted that he has spent a number of hours on public records
questions as a result of Ms. Banks' frequent complaints. He stated that he
had met with an Assistant District Attorney and with counsel for the
Secretary of State. One topic of discussion concerned the Board of Appeals
and Ms. Banks' demands to see their draft conditions for the "Katandin
Woods" project. The District Attorney's office acknowledged that the Board
of Appeals is a quasi-judicial body and that it may not always be
appropriate to deliberate in public session. Mr. Cohen said he hoped that
all meetings of the Board of Appeals could continue to be held in open
session. With respect to Ms. Banks' specific request, he had agreed with
the counsel for the Secretary of State that the draft could now be released
since the decision had been filed with a copy to Ms. Banks and the appeal
period had expired.
Mr. Cohen noted that no complaints had been filed against Lexington
under the Public Records Law until Ms. Banks' began to make them.
TRAFFIC SAFETY, MASS. AVENUE ACCESS TP PARKING LOT mai
Mr. Hutchinson informed the Board of his request to the Traffic Safety
Advisory Committee for its recommendations on his proposal to close the
access to the municipal parking lot, between the 1775 Wine & Spirit Shop and
the bank. He felt that this access has created a safety hazard by cars
making illegal left turns onto Mass Avenue and driving over the sidewalk
area. He also suggested that the driveway exiting the Pewter Pot parking
lot be looked at.
CONSENT AGENDA
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to ratify the poll
vote of June 12, 1986, approving the acceptance of the low bid of the Essex
County Bank on a State Anticipation Note for sewer work on Marrett Road, in
the amount of $22,177.54, dated June 12, 1986.
wow
Selectmen's Meeting -9-- June 17, 1986
soms MARY MC DONOUGH RECOGNITION PARTY, ONE DAY LIQUOR LICENSE
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request
of the Mary McDonough Party Planning Committee for permission to serve wine
in Cary Hall, Cary Memorial Bldg. on September 10, 1986, and to approve the
application by the Committee for a One Day Liquor License on that date.
ARMENIAN SISTERS ACADEMY, ONE DAY LIQUOR LICENSE
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
application for One Day Liquor License by the Armenian Sisters Academy on
June 22, 1986.
TRAFFIC ITEM, BUTLER, LARCHMONT LANE
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to refer the request
of Jill Butler, B Larchmont Lane, for relief from safety hazards on
Larchmont Lane, to the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for review and
recommendations.
REQUEST FOR USE OF BATTLE GREEN, LEXINGTON MINUTE MEN
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request
of the Lexington Minute Men, Inc. for use of the Battle Green for
r..
installation of officers on Sunday, June 29, 1986, at 2:00 p.m.
ORDER OF TAKING, PEARL STREET
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to execute an Order of
Taking for Pearl Street, established as a Town way at an Annual Town Meeting
on April 2, 1986.
FRANKLIN SCHOOL SEWER CHARGES
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve sewer
charges in lieu of betterment in the amount of $6,612.79 for property at 7
Stedman Road, the former Franklin School.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to abate the sewer
charge in lieu of betterment for the Franklin School property, 7 Stedman
Road, in the amount of $6,612.79, as recommended by the Director of Public
Works/Engr. because sewer was included in the price of the Franklin School
property when it was purchased from the Town.
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198 GRANT STREET, SEWER CHARGES IN LIEU OF BETTERMENT
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve sewer
charges in lieu of betterment in the amount of $1 ,588.08, for property at
198 Grant Streeet, owned by Barry Couette, 5 Raymond Street, Lexington.
CONTRACT 88-7-E, SIDEWALK RECONSTRUCTION
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted i to execute Contract
*86-7-E, in the amount of $33,218.60, awarded on June 2, 1986, to Highway
Paving, Inc. , North Billerica for sidewalk reconstruction.
CH. 90 BOND ISSUE PROJECT
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to execute "Ch. 90
Environmental Punch Lists and Ch. 90 Project Request Forms for resurfacing
of 9,000 linear feet of existing streets in various locations in the Town
in the amounts of $41,062 for Waltham Street - Marrett to Brookside and
$97,938 for Paul Rever Road, Spring Street (Marrett to Hayden) .
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 by roll call vote,
Mr. Eddison, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Dailey, Mrs. Smith, Mr. McSweeney, to go into moo
Executive Session for discussion of matters of Collective Bargaining
Strategy and of Litigation, with no intent to resume open session.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 10:22
p.m.
A true record, Attest:
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i;17,
anion H. Snow
Executive Clerk
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