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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1986-10-BOS-min f Y { ff t 1 ,1 \\ SELECTMEN'S MEETING f , October 7, 1986 qL/ 1{ A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Tuesday, October 7, 1986 in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Eddison, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Dailey, Mrs. Smith, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. Hutchinson, Town Manager; Ms. Adler, Assistant to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. PUBLIC HEARING BOSTON EDISON, WORTHEN ROAD/PLEASANT STREET The Chairman reopened the Public Hearing on the petition of the Boston Edison Company for permission to install conduit in Worthen Road and Pleasant Street, which had been adjourned on September 23, due to the absence of an Edison representative. Carol McManus of Boston Edison explained the need for the underground installations to service a new house on Pleasant Street. 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 som petition, plans and orders of Boston Edison Company for installation of conduit as follows: Worthen Road - northeasterly approximately 67 feet northwest of Street, a distance of about 14 feet of conduit. Pleasant St. - northwesterly approximately 420 feet northeast of We rthen Road, a distance of about 8 feet of conduit. PUBLIC HEARING, N.E. TELEPHONE COMPANY, WINCHESTER DRIVE The Chairman reopened the Public Hearing on the petition of the Boston Edison Company for permission to install an area terminal and conduit in Winchester Drive, adjourned on September 23, pending provision of additional information on the ownership of the proposed installation site of the terminal. There being no representative of the Telephone Company present, upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn to October 21, 1986, the Public Hearing on the petition of the New England Telephone Company for installation of an area terminal and conduit in Winchester Drive. PUBLIC HEARING, BOSTON EDISON COMPANY, LOWELL STREET The Chairman opened the Public Hearing on the petition of the Boston Edison Company for permission to install conduit on Lowell Street. ow,ft Ms. McManus explained, on behalf of the Edison Company, that the installation is necessary to provide service to a new house at $550 Lowell Street. There being no comments in favor or in opposition to the proposal, the Chairman declared the hearing closed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition, plan and order of the Boston Edison Company to install 8 feet of conduit as follows: -2- Lowell Street: westerly approximately 936 feet north of East Street, a distance of about 8 feet of conduit. PUBLIC HEARING, DATA RESOURCES, INC. , HARTWELL AVENUE The Chairman opened the Public Hearing on the petition of Data Resources, Inc. to obtain a grant of location to install and maintain conduit manholes and underground cables and/or wires in Hartwell Avenue. Frank DiPietro, representing Data Resources, was present to explain the need for the work to provide service for computer communication and security monitoring systems between buildings at *24 and *29 Hartwell Avenue. He noted Mr. Tonaszuck's suggested condition requiring working hours from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to avoid traffic problems, which would be agreeable to his firm. There being no other 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, plans and orders of Data Resources, Inc. for installation of conduit manholes and underground cables and/or wires in the following location: Hartwell Avenue: from building 24 to building 29, as shown on plan entitled "Site Plan of Land in Lexington, MA" prepared for Data Resources by BSC-Bedford, MA dated August 21, 1986. Approval was granted with the provisions that working hours will be from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and the final patch be done two weeks after completion of the work. SENATOR KRAUS/REPRESENTATIVE DORAN Senator Kraus and Representative Doran were present for discussion of current legislation and the impact on Lexington of pending bills. Regarding Local Aid, Senator Kraus estimated available funds to be less than half (40%) of last year's. He reported that the Local Aid Committee is prepared to give recommendations for distribution of aid in FY88 and to estimate how much assistance will be needed for equalization and to provide basic needs of communities. He anticipated, however, that this total will exceed the amount the Administration is projecting to be available. Hearings will be held throughout the State to involve the public and to allow the addressing of needs of communities. Rep. Doran referred to tax cap legislation which he felt would impact the ability of the State to continue funding local aid at current levels. He added that it would be hard to determine what 40% of the growth in state revenues actually is. Regarding the State takeover of the Courts from the Counties, Mr. Doran said it would constitute a form of local aid. He noted further the need to make up for the loss of Federal Revenue Sharing Funds in the face of the Imo Federal cut back. Mr. Hutchinson referred to a print-out of categories and types of local aid, some of which he had not perceived as local aid items. Senator Kraus agreed that the definitions of direct and indirect local aid need to be refined and clarified. .. r Selectmen's Meeting -3- October 7, 1986 Mr. Dailey asked the Senator if Lexington will again this year be likely to come up short under the local aid formula adopted last year. The Senator responded that the formula this year would probably be last years budget plus inflation plus the new costs which everyone faces. He said the numbers this year will probably be larger than last years. Senator Kraus gave a probable scenario for tax cap legislation, noting that the House and Senate had adopted very different versions. He noted that state budget surpluses had made Proposition 2 1/2 work up to now. He predicted that if state surpluses are missing, a huge struggle for local funds will follow. He will propose taking the House version with amendments in three areas. He will try to exempt increases in local aid from the tax cap base and he will proose adoption of a stabilization fund. Rep. Doran agreed with the amendments as listed but felt the worst should be assumed and that the question on the -November ballot will be adopted. Rep. Doran reported that the House and Senate are not too far apart on the Pension Reform bill. He listed the major provisions as listed in summaries distributed to Board members and noted that differences are now being negotiated. The legislation is supported by the Mass. Municipal Association. Mr. Hutchinson spoke of concerns regarding additional NESWC costs and asked for legislation which would help to control tipping fees. He referred to the NESWC Communities dealings with New England Power company and reported that they are getting 89% of avoided fuel costs whereas other communities are getting 100%. Mr. Tonaszuck -added that -political support is - needed to convince New England Power to negotiate and that backing is needed from the State. Mr. Eddison referred to three items involving the Dept. of Transportation and the State DPW on which there has been little or no progress: Bedford Street and Marrett Road Improvement projects; and the Town's request for lowered speed on Maple and Lowell Streets. He recapped Town efforts and State responses relative to the Bedford Street project and noted a draft letter, prepared by him to Commissioner Tierney, urging State action to implement the improvement plans. He referred to the latest State requirement for a hearing on the Marrett Road plans, which represents another delay of that project. He felt that Lexington is not getting reasonable support from the State. He noted the State's response to the request for lowered speed limit on Maple and Lowell Sts. which had indicated that, based on a reevaluation of the posted speed limits, no changes are warranted. Senator Kraus informed the Board of his conference with officials at the State DPW District 4 Office. Regarding the Bedford Street project, he was told that the revised plan is not acceptable and that the only way to d••■ gain approval was to go back to the original design. Regarding the Maple Street situation, the Senator was told that the street had been designed for 40 mph and that drivers would continue to drive at that speed. The Town's wish to lower the speed limit will not be taken into consideration. Mr. Marshall pointed out that conditions have changed through heavier development and traffic since the road was designed and felt that the Town should have a voice in the matter. r-" -4- Mrs. Smith advocated appealing to levels higher than the District 4 Office and asked the support of the Legislators regarding the three projects. Rep. Doran spoke briefly about the Land Bank bill with a tax on real estate sales, which he said faces serious obstacles. He was not sure legislation can be drafted which will meet the diverse needs of communities. He asked for continued input and suggestions from the Board. Regarding the possible use of state land (Met. State Hospital land) for affordable housing, Mr. Doran felt that regional discussions of that concept should be pursued. Senator Kraus thought it might be several years before a decision is made by the State as to the disposition of the land, but saw an advantage in having a plan in place. HARTWELL AVENUE RECYCLING AREA Mr. Hutchinson reported that the Public Works Dept. has been monitoring the recycling program at Hartwell Avenue and has reported experiencing several problems in the operation i.e. indiscriminate dumping of industry related trash and dumping by residents of surrounding communities. Richard Spiers, Manager of Operations had recommended taking the following steps to control dumping at the recycling area: 1. Installation of an 3-ft. chain link fence and gate across the driveway 2. Installation of bins in the recycling area to separate and store .••••• materials 3. Elimination of oil disposal 4. Hours of operation on Wednesday and Saturdays for a period of 8 hours - 5. The hiring of personnel to provide security and enforce regulations during open hours Mr. Hutchinson asked for the Board's approval to continue the operation with the above mentioned changes. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the changes at the Hartwell Avenue Sanitary Landfill Recycling Area, as recommended by the Town Manager. Mr. Hutchinson will explore the possibility of allowing dumping of leaves at the landfill by landscape architects, as requested by Mr. McSweeney. LEXHAB LONG RANGE PLANS William Hays, David Eagle, Donald Wilson and Ronald Colwell of the Lexington Housing Assistance Board met with the Selectmen for discussion of possible future ventures of LexHAB, in addition to its responsibilities at Muzzey. A list of categories of housing and methods of acquisition were reviewed with the Board with respect to LexHAB's future role: 1. Purchase of additional units at Muzzey when they become available. �■■► It was noted that owners are free to sell to any eligible buyer and that the Town has no rights of first refusal. The need for more 2- and 3- bedroom LexHAB units was pointed out, and this was thought to be a remedy for that situation. Also discussed was the concern that Town ownership of many units at Muzzey might give the impression of a public housing facility. .ate rift Selec tmean►'s Meeting 1986 2. Acquisition by LexHAB of the Rotary/VoTech house on Emerald Street. LexHAB's role was explained by Don Wilson, who reported that the rent for the 3-bedroom house under Section 8, will be $635.00. Question arose as to the need for a mortgage to reimburse the Rotary Club for construction costs. 3. Construction of additional "Emerald Street" dwellings at other locations. Mr. Eagle felt that any such future housing should be 3-bedroom ranch house types which are easily built and heated. 4. Construction of 2- or 3- family dwellings on tax title lots or on any Town owned land that is not set aside for development by the Housing Authority. Mr. Dailey said he understood that all suitable tax title land had been used for the 17 scattered site houses in the 70's. Mr. Hays asked for suggestions as to joint exploration with the Selectmen of possible suitable sites, either tax title or any other publicly owned land. 5. Purchase of an existing single family home and conversion to a 2- or 3- family dwelling, which would probably require-rezoning. Discussion followed on the need for more 2- and 3- bedroom units to meet needs. Mr. Dailey suggested, regarding future purchase of units at Muzzey, that to avoid a too heavy Town presence 1- bedroom units could be sold as 2- or 3-bedroom units become available for purchase. He felt that owners osmai should be made aware that the Town would be a ready buyer. Mr. Hays expressed his view that the Muzzey Condo Association may feel a threat of Town intervention in the running of the -development, if a large - number_of units are acquired by the Town, giving the Town more voting power. Mr. Eagle did not agree with M r. Hays in this respect and felt that LexHAB should take every opportunity to acquire 2- and 3--bedroom units. He felt that 10 town owned units would not be excessive. Mrs. Smith agreed that a 1 in 7 ratio was not too high and felt that even a higher number would not constitute a threat. Mr. Eddison and Mr. Marshall both supported the concept of trying to get more Muzzey units when possible. Regarding the Emerald Street Rotary/VoTech housing, motion was made and seconded, and it was voted that the Town Manager be authorized to confer with the Rotary Club to establish a purchase price and to facilitate the transfer of the Emerald Street property to LexHAB. Item #6, Association with Lexington Interfaith Housing Corporation for joint management and/or joint maintenance of the 6 LIHC units at Garfield Street and LexHAB's units was discussed. It was noted that LIHC is presently considering shifting the rental housing to a tenant-owned co- operative. Mr. Marshall supported the LIHC/LexHAB association and urged aggressive pursuit of the matter. Mr. Eagle referred to the efforts and active participation of LexHAB members is giving assistance to Muzzey residents when called upon. Mrs. ''"" Smith felt that the Town should provide LexHAB with a staff and asked, if that was the case, if an applicant pool could be developed and kept current. She saw the need for a fresh list if more units are acquired. Referring to Mr. Eagle's complimentary remarks about current LexHAB tenants, shesuggestedthat publicity on that aspect should be given, without specifying individuals, to help allay fears relative to a public housing concept. a _6_ She expressed appreciation at the excellent performance of LexHAB in um, making Muzzey a successful Town venture. Mr. Eddison thanked LexHAB members on behalf of the Board, for their dedicated efforts at Muzzey and for meeting with the Board that evening. MAPLE STREET/LOWELL STREET Mr. Marshall asked for further discussion of steps to be taken in bringing the Maple Street/Lowell Street speed limit issue to higher level officials and going beyond attempting to deal with the District 4 office. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the Chairman and the Town Manager to proceed with communication concerning the Maple/Lowell Streets speed limit lowering to Commissioner Tierney of the Mass. Dept. of Public Works. WARRANT - 1986 STATE ELECTION Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to sign the Warrant for the 1986 State Election. CLOSE OF WARRANT - 1987 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to close the Warrant for the 1987 Annual Town Meeting on Tuesday, December 30, 1986, at 4:30 p.m. .�.r APPOINTMENTS - FAIR HOUSING, BIKEWAY, TOWN REPORT COMMITTEES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to make appointments to committees as follows: FAIR HOUSING COMMITTEE Muriel Spence 171 Burlington Street 1 year term Gerri C. Weathers 14 Drummer Boy Way 1 year term MINUTEMAN COMMUTER BIKEWAY IMPLEMENTATION COMMITTEE Martha C. Wood, representing the Planning Board TOWN REPORT COMMITTEE Stephen W. Wade 524 Concord Avenue 1 year term HARDING ROAD NO PARKING SIGNS The request of Evelyn J. Nich, 63 Harding Road, for removal of No Parking signs, originally installed to prohibit commuter bus passenger parkings, was considered. Since the bus service which had previously stopped nearby on Bedford Street has been discontinued, it was thought by Mrs. Nich that the need for the regulation no longer existed. As recommended by Mr. Marshall, neighbors will be informed that the Board is contemplating the removal of the signs and will be asked for their views on the matter. Mrs. Nich's request will again be on the agenda for October 21st. ..r oink Selectmen's Meeting -7- October 7, 1986 BEDFORD STREET LETTER TO COMMISSIONER TIERNEY Mr. Eddison reported on his meeting with Julian Bussgang, George Burnell, DPW, and Susan Adler regarding lack of progress with the Bedford Street improvements. All had agreed that a letter, outlining the situation, should be sent to Commissioner Tierney, State DPW. Mr. Eddison had drafted such a letter for review of the Board. He asked that any suggestions for revision be submitted within two days. Upon Mrs. Smith's suggestion that Marrett Road be included in the letter, the Chairman said that he would prefer to write a separate letter on that issue as well as on Maple Street. FRANKLIN SCHOOL TOUR, CANDIDATES FOR STATE OFFICES The Manager asked if the Board objected to a tour of the Franklin School housing development as requested by Evelyn Murphy, candidate for Lt. Governor. The Board agreed with this, procedure, based upon assurance that all candidates would have the same opportunity, if they requested it. POW/MIA FLAG ON NOVEMBER 11 opmft Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request of William P. Fitzgerald, Chairman, Town Celebrations Committee, to allow the POW/MIA flag to be raised on the Battle Green on Veterans' Day, November 11, 1986, and that it be flown over the Green for a period of one week. - - - REQUEST OF CHURCH OF OUR REDEEMER, SANDWICH BOARDS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request of the Church of Our Redeemer for permission to have "sandwich board" posters publicizing the Church's annual fall fair carried in the Town on October 31, and November 1, 1986. ABATEMENT OF SEWER CHARGE IN LIEU OF BETTERMENT Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve abatement of a sewer charge in lieu of betterment in the amount of $2,722.00 for property owned by Mr. & Mrs. Francis Molle at 24 Bellflower Street. ONE DAY LIQUOR LICENSES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve applications for One-Day Liquor Licenses as follows: Hamazkain Armenian Cultural Association, on October 11, 1986, to be held at the Armenian Sisters' Academy, 20 Pelham Road from 8 p.m. to 12 Midnight. Armenian Sisters' Academy on October 18, 1986, Dinner Dance to be held in the Academy's Gymnasium, 6 Eliot Road. ..8,,. Iwo TOWN REPORT PROCEDURES Mr. Eddison noted the memo from Erna Greene, Chairman of the Town Report Committee, offering procedures for streamlining the preparation of . the Annual Town Report and requesting that all copy by submitted by November 21st, to allow the committee ample time to prepare the report for publication. Board members expressed no opposition to the procedures proposed by Mrs. Greene and the memo will be sent to all Town Agencies on October 8th. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 10:30 p.m. �E ,-----) 0 /1 l A true record, Attest: E' ''' ' ; ' �` 11/11 i''' 7/4M-‘4/ lion H. Snow Executive Clerk I , e.. SELECTMEN'S MEETING October 21, 1986 . 24911) A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Tuesday, October 21, 1986, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, TownOffi i h•' -2- Mr. Eddison had drafted a letter to Sonia Weinstock, indicating the Board's wish to have Mr. Lee appointed as Lexington's representative on JRTC, and asked for comments from the Board. Mrs. Smith said that she was impressed with Mr. Lee's credentials and would be glad to have Lexington represented. She added that he should be made aware of his duty to report back to the Board, if appointed to this regional committee. Mr. Eddison agreed on the need for this feed-back and will inform Mr. Lee accordingly. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the letter to Sonia Weinstock, Dept. of Transportation, indicating the Selectmen's approval of the nomination and appointment of Eugene E. Lee, as Lexington's representative on the Joint Regional Transportation Committee. "47 ACRE" PROPOSAL, LINCOLN The Board reviewed a draft letter, prepared by Mr. Eddison, to the Chairmen of the Lincoln Selectmen and Planning Board, requesting that they convey to the Lincoln Town Meeting the request of the Lexington Selectmen that the scope of development of the "47 Acres" parcel, adjacent to Massport, be changed by deleting the commercial use planned for a portion of the site. The request is based on traffic impact on Rtes. 2A, and 128, which would be caused by that use. Mr. Marshall stated his support of intent of the letter, but asked that it be slightly rearranged by the relocating of a paragraph. Mr. McSweeney noted Lincoln's cooperation in informing Lexington and seeking input about the proposal, and questioned theideaof requesting no commercial development there when Lexington still has commercially zoned space for potential use. Mr. Marshall responded that the Lincoln proposal will require a rezoning, whereas Lexington's business zoned land already exists. He noted that the area in question is a key piece of land in that it abuts Massport, which has promised compatible contiguous land use. Mr. Dailey asked if this action would place the Selectmen in a position whereby they would have to oppose all commercial development which would contribute to traffic volume in Lexington. He referred to the Board's role with respect to Special Permits acted upon by the Lexington Board of Appeals and the Board's opportunity to comment. He would not want to tell Lincoln that the Board is opposed to engaging in any type of commercial development and was uneasy to give support to the letter. Mr. Eddison pointed out that commercial use on this particular piece of land could generate significant traffic on roads already impacted and that regional development has been and will continue to be looked at closely. He recalled that Lincoln had opened the door to Lexington's comments in the Spring and that a joint meeting to discuss the proposal had been held at that time. The Lexington Planning Board also intends to send a letter to Lincoln stating its views on the project. Mr. Marshall moved that Lincoln be informed in a friendly manner of vow Lexington's opposition to commercial rezoning of a portion of the "47 Acres". Mr. Dailey seconded the motion with the understanding that he will not oppose all future commercial development in Lexington. r . fomk Selectmen's Meeting -3- October 21, 1986 Mr. Marshall noted that the traffic impact of such a commercial development would be borne mainly by Lincoln's neighbors, not Lincoln itself. Motion having been made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to approve, as amended, the letter to the Lincoln Selectmen and Planning Board regarding the "47 Acre" proposal. Mrs. Smith abstained from voting because of her involvement with Massport. HARM NG ROAD, REQUEST FOR REMOVAL OF "NO PARKING" SIGNS The Chairman recapped the request of Mrs. Nich, 63 Harding Road, for removal of "No Parking" signs on that street, which had been installed to prohibit commuter-bus user parking. Since the commuter bus no longer operates in that area, Mrs. Nich felt that there would be no adverse effect from removal of the restriction. Telephone calls to the Town Manager's office in response to a letter sent to all Harding Road residents had shown that 17 were opposed to the removal and 8 were in favor. pima Mrs. Nich stated that she had never had a problem with parkers before the signs were installed, as neighbors on other parts of Harding Road had, and so was not aware that removal of the signs would be a problem. She asked if it would be possible to remove only the sign at her house, leaving the signs in other locations for protection of those who need it. Mr. Hutchinson said the regulation could be amended to do so. Sharon Murphy, 40 Harding Road, agreed with that procedure and asked if the residents in areas where the signs will remain could be issued resident parking stickers. She noted that bus service could be resumed at some point and the signs would be needed. A resident of *59 Harding Road also voiced agreement with the plan, as long as signs would remain to cover her property. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to request the Town Manager to arrange for removal of the "No Parking" sign at *63 Harding Road. The Manager was also asked to see that the remaining signs on both sides of the street are consistent regarding designated days of the week. MEETING WITH GENERAL CHUBB, HANSCOM FIELIC Mr. Eddison reported on a meeting of the Town Manager and himself with General Chubb and his staff at Hanscom Field on October 9. This meeting is one of a series of meetings with CEO's at large commercial facilities in the Town. •••16Several concerns had been raised at the meeting such as traffic and future development at Hanscom. General Chubb had projected no growth at the Field in the next 5 years. Regarding affordable housing, 140 units at Patriots Village are being built to accommodate those working on the field which would reduce traffic volume. The issue of water conservation is being addressed at Hanscom. Although there is no house metering, Lexington water to the field is metered } vemor -4- Conservation 4-Gonservation awareness programs are regularly held; lots are small which precludes private swimming pools and the use of large amounts of water for lawns. Mr. Edd i so n said he agreed with the Hanscom Officials that Hartwell Avenue's surface needs attention. MEETING SCHEDULE The Chairman proposed that the Selectmen's Meeting on October 28th be cancelled since there appeared to be no pressing matters. He suggested a schedule as follows: November 4, November 18, and November 25. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to cancel- the October 28 meeting and to schedule meetings of the Board as listed above. CONSENT AGENDA TRAFFIC ITEM REFERRED Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to refer the requests of Jane Baxter, 18 Hancock Street, regarding safety concerns at Lake Street .,,.,r and Mass. Avenue, to the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for review and r eccmmen da t i o n. RESIGNATION. TOWN REPORT COMMITTEE Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the resignation of Chang H. Kim from the Town Report Committee, effective as of September 29, 1986. 1-DAY AUCTIONEER LICENSE. SHAP I RCS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application of Joel I . Shapiro for One-Day Auctioneer License on November 8, 1986, at a fund raiser for Hayden Precision Skating Team 24 Lincoln Str-ePt. ABATEMENTS, SEWER CHARGES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the abatement of sewer charges in the total amount of $162.97, for properties not connected to Town sewer and therefore exempt from sewer user charges. PROGRESS REPORT. BIKEWAY Mr . Eddi son referred to his memo which updated progress with the Minuteman Commuter Bikeway. He noted that the next step in the process will be a pre-bid conference on October 29 in which the interested firms will review the terms of a Request for Proposal for the design of the bikeway with the Advisory Committee. He invited Board members to attend. Selectmen's Meeting -5- October 21, 1986 STREET BETTERMENT RATE Mr. Hutchinson reviewed the recommendations of Francis Fields, Town Engineer, on the Street Betterment Rate for FY88, calculated under the new betterment policy, adopted in 1985. The previous policy established a rate which recovered 2/3 of the average cost to the Town for construction of streets over the past three years in which construction has occurred. The current rate is $67.59/front foot. Under the new policy, 90 of costs will be recovered. Mr. Fields recommended a rate for FY88 of $81.60/front foot. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adopt a Street Betterment Rate for FY 1988 of $81.60, per front foot as recommended by the Town Engineer. NEEDS & PRIORITIES IN HUMAN SERVICES Harvey Lowell, Chairman of the Human Services Committee, was present to report on the findings of June 19th hearing, co-sponsored by the Selectmen and the Human Services Committee on Needs and Priorities in Human Services. poft Forty five representatives of human service agencies, Town Departments and committees had given testimony at_ the hearing. Prominent areas brought out were youth, housing, recreation, transportation and crisis management. - Mr. Lowell said that the Committee feels that enhanced communication is a key ingredient to making progress in responding to human need in Lexington. He stated that youth, housing and crisis response are among the areas that would benefit from more communications between the individuals and groups committed to finding solutions. Human Service Committee members will attempt to implement better communications, will participate with experts and will investigate posible Town or other funding of programs. He commented on findings regarding youth which revealed problems of drug and alcohol abuse and will act in the role of consultant to the Ad Hoc Youth Committee in its efforts. Mr. Lowell offered the participation of the Human Services Committee in Mr. McSweeney's project on substance abuses. With regard to crisis intervention, the Committee will review and respond to fact finding on crisis response and health visiting to the elderly. Mr. Lowell noted that affordable housing was shown to be in short supply for the elderly and special needs citizens, low income and minority persons, and Lexington employees or residents. The Committee will cooperate with groups concerned with housing issues in order to promote communication and coordination among these parties. The Committee will also engage in efforts from a human services perspective in areas of transportation and recreation for special needs persons, elderly, pre-schoolers, and the handicapped. Decisions will be made as other issues emerge on involvement of the Committee. -6- Mr. Lowell noted an additional role which potentially exists for the 4001, Committee as brokers with funding sources, recommending to them ways in which they might finance programs and will seek funding for programs that respond to the areas of problems and needs previously listed. It will continue to monitor Town-funded human service programs, advise the Selectmen of feasible and economical approaches to human problems. It will also continue to avoid duplication of services and to reduce costs. Mr. Marshall, Liaison to the Committee, thanked the Committee for the effort put into the June 19th hearing and the report to the Board. He noted that the Ad Hoc Youth Committee was in the process of developing a Youth Questionnaire and asked that discussion of the draft questionnaire be scheduled after it has been further developed, adding that he felt that an easier to administer document should be developed. Mr. Lowell reported that he had met with the Ad Hoc group. He had told them that their efforts were useful but that the instrument of survey appeared to be cause for concern. He had advised them to slow down the process and to seek the perception of others on the questionnaire. Mr. McSweeney was in agreement as to the structure of the survey document and said he hoped that the committee would not proceed with it before talking to the Selectmen. Mrs. Smith also expressed her disfavor with the Board being tied to the questionnaire at this time. Judy Sabin, asked if the direction presented by the Human Services Committee in Mr. Lowell's review was acceptable to the Selectmen, noting that the Human Service budget would be the next procedure. Mr. Dailey complimented the Committee on last year's -budget information as being most helpful and complete. Mr. Marshall noted the Committee's dual function regarding budget preparation and in the areas outlined by Mr. Lowell and encouraged its continuance in these roles. Mr. Eddison complimented the Committee on its informative report and felt the points raised were excellent. He felt the Committee was on the right course. CHARGE. LEXINGTON CENTER COMMITTEE Margery Battin was present for review of a draft charge to the Lexington Center Committee, prepared by her. Mr. Eddison complimented Mrs. Battin on the draft and recommended it be approved. He noted the appointments to the Committee will be made on November 4th, and asked Board members for suggestions as to candidates. In the new committee, a Selectman would serve as Liaison, rather than as a member of the Committee. It as agreed that it would give the committee more independence without Selectmen or Planning Board members and that it should be comprised of people who are not Town officials but are knowledgeable about the Town. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the Charge to the Lexington Center Committee, as presented. vamp rm. Selectmen's Meeting -7- October 21, 1986 NESWC Mr. Hutchinson reviewed with the Board the procedure whereby Palmer & Dodge had been authorized, acting on the instructions of the Executive Committee of NESWC to intervene on behalf of the NEWSC communities and to bring suit against MRI, in an effort to stabilize the tipping fee if contracts can be renegotiated with private haulers who have fixed contracts that allow them to use the plant at a much lower rate than the Towns' current costs. He said that at the current billing, it would be necessary to request a Special Town Meeting which may be avoided if the tipping fee can be revised. He reported on his meeting that day with MRI, haulers and counsel for discussion of the framework of a possible settlement that would lead to the stabilization of the fee. He will have to request supplemental funds, but he was hopeful that it would be substantially less than originally thought. Mr. Hutchinson requested ratification of his signature on an affidavit which will allow the Town to participate as an intervenor. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to ratify the action ow& of the Town Manager in executing an affidavit confirming that Palmer & Dodge has been authorized, on the instructions of the Executive Committee of NESWC, to intervene in the name of the Town of Lexington and to take all actions as instructed by NESWC to protect the interests of the NESWC communities. GSA RESPONSE/RR SPUR The Manager reported on the response from the General Services Administration regarding Town acquisition of the surplus portion of a railroad spur track at Hanscom Field approving Lexington's submission for use of the land as a bike path. The price of the land was established as $87,500. GSA's response to Lexington's request for a 2-year delay in order to decide with Bedford and Massport on the property's ultimate use was negative. The Manager is negotiating with Bedford for assistance in payment of the acquisition cost. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4 - 0 to authorize the Town Manager to inform GSA that Lexington is still interested and wishes to proceed with acquisition of the railroad spur at Hanscom Field. Mrs. Smith abstained from voting because of her involvement with Massport. WATER/SEWER RATE INCREASE pooh Mr. Hutchinson reviewed proposed sewer and water rate increases, as put forth in a draft report by Walter Tonaszuck, Director of Public Works/Engineer. He noted that these services have been subsidized up to now by use of the property tax. In view of escalating costs for sewer and water due to increased MWRA charges to date and in the future, the Manager made the following recommendations: 4.00 1. Water system - full enterprise funding. Sewer system -- modified enterprise system phasing to full enterprise. 2. Water proposed increase to 74c/h.c.f. from 55c/h.c.f. (34.5%) . 3. Sewer proposed increase to GOc/h.c.f. from 43c/h.c.f. (86.0%) . 4. Combined sewer and water rate to $1.54/h.c.f. from 98c/h.c/f. (57.1%) . 5. A block rate surcharge of an additional 20c/h.c.f. for water only for all users who use more than 200 h.c.f. 6. A proposed minimum use charge of $15.00 per billing period. 7. Charge Hanscom Air Base full rate. He also reviewed recommendations for an additional 20/h.c.f. charge for all water users who use more than 200 h.c.f. and a new minimum charge of $15.00 per billing period for consumers who use less than 20 h.c.f. , which is less than is currently charged. The Manager suggested that a Public Information Session on the proposed increases be scheduled for November 4th, for information to the Financial Committees as well as residents. He recommended moving forward with the rate increases as a step toward a full enterprise basis for sewer as well as water services. Regarding properties not connected to sewer and exempt from the user charge, Mr. Hutchinson will explore means of urging connection for those on streets with available sewer lines. Mr. Marshall pointed out the unaccounted for water usage amounts to approximately 1/2 year's billing. He asked for expanded effort to -account for the water not charged for. He supported most all of the recommendations made and thought the report was excellent. Mrs. Smith also complimented Mr. Tonaszuck for the report and commended the Town's progress with maintenance of its sewer/water system. She asked for data on how much of the unnaccounted for water used by the Town for various procedures. She was pleased with the recommendations and felt they comprised a fair rate structure for all. Mr. Edd i son and Mr. McSweeney also expressed compliments on the report. The Town Manager will proceed with arrangements for the Information Session. He will inform high users of the proposed changes by letter and will advertise the Information Session by a block ad in the Minuteman. EMERALD STREET HOUSE Mr. Marshall asked if procedures to transfer the Emerald/Street Rotary/VoTech house to LexHAB would be implemented soon, and if so recommended wider advertising for sources of applicants. He asked that Mr. Hays, LexHAB chairman, be kept informed of progress. , 4 r Selectmen's Meeting -9_ October 21, 1986 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 Executive Session for discussion of matters of litigation, with no intent to resume open session. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:45 p.m. A true record, Attest: a ion H. Snow Executive Session pmft 1111Mft