HomeMy WebLinkAbout1987-02-BOS-minr
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( 1A . "` SELECTMEN'S MEETING
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February 2, 1987
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A regular meeting o the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday,
February 3, 1987, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at
7:34 p.m. Chairman Eddison, Mr. Marshall, Mr, Dailey, Mrs. Smith, Mr.
McSweeney; Mr. Hutchinson, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Ms. Adler,
Asst. to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present,
ARTICLE STM
Mr. Eddison will present the motion on Article 3 Supplementary
Appropriation for Refuse Collection and Disposal, at the Special Town
Meeting, with explanatory remarks developed by the Town Manager's staff.
MINUTES _
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve, as
presented, the minutes of the Selectmen's Meeting on January 21, 19876
ATM WARRANT SIGNED
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve and execute
the Warrant for the 1987 Annual Town Meeting.
TRAFFIC ITEM
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to refer the request
of Minuteman Home Care Corporat for implementation of a- traffic
management plan for Hartwell Avenue, to the Traffic Safety Advisory
Committee for its review and recommendations.
WARRANT PREPARATION
Mr. Hutchinson commended the performance and acknowledged the great
effort of Susan Adler and Phyllis Smith of his staff i n the preparati of
the Warrant signed that. night by the Board. He asked for recognition of
this accomplishment by the Selectmen.
MASSPORT HANSCOM FIELD MOTEL PROPOSAL
Mr. Marshall referred to a meeting with Massport at which Joyce Hals
was asked about any development planned for Hanscom Field. Mrs. Hals had
indicated that there were no such plans.
He has now been -told by a constituent about a motel being proposed and
feels that Massport had been remiss in not i the Board of the plans.
The Town Manager will explore the situation and will prepare a report for
clarification.
MODERATOR COLE RECOGNITION
,.. Mr. Edd recapped plans for recognition of Lincoln P. Cole, to take
place after his last session as Town Moderator that night at the Special
Town Meeting. He will present an engraved pewter bowl. to Mr. Cole on behalf
of the Board.
INEW
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at
7:45 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Marion H. Snow
Executive Clerk
February 10, 1387
A regular meeting of t Board of Selectmen was held on Tuesday,
February 14, 1887, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at
7:38 p.m. Chairman Eddison, Mr. Dailey, Mr. Marshall, Mrs. Smith, Mr.
McSweeney; Ms. Adler, Assistant to the Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town
Counsel; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present.
MINUTEMAN VOTECH BUDGET
Mr. O'Sullivan and Mr. Burnell of the Appropriation Committee were
present for discussion and analysis of the FY88 budget requests of the
Minuteman Vocational Regional Technical School District, Dr. Fitzgerald and
Mr. Jackson attended representing the School District,
Mr. Burnell reported that he had attended budget deliberations of
Minuteman VoTech for the past two years and noted the marked increase in the
budgets for FY86 and FY87, and the requested budget for FY88. This year's
budget is up 8 1/2% with declining enrollment. Based on the decrease in
enrollment, Mr. Burnell felt that many 'components of the budget should
require lower funding and that a 4.3% increase would be adequate to cover
all operating costs. He felt more emphasis should be placed by Minuteman on
the financial aspects of the
P provision of services and proposed that the
- Selectmen exert influence to cause - the - school budget to come under closer
scrutiny. He acted a letter from a Weston. School Committee member
expressing concerns at the upward trend of the Minuteman budget. Mr.
Burnell was not prepared to give the views of other Towns on the smatter, but
urged the Selectmen to consider sending a letter to all of the member towns
expressing their concern with the upward trend of the budget.
Mr. O'Sullivan pointed out that the viewpoints being presented were
being given in a spirit of analysis and in an effort to provide a solution
to the budget escalation problem.
Mr. Cohen reminded the Board that under State requirements, regional
school budgets must be submitted to the member towns within a prescribed
time frame, which has been done and that it would take the disapproval of
113 of the member towns to overturn a school district's.budget.
Mr. Marshall felt that comparing Lexington Schools and the Minuteman
School budgets on a per capita basis could not be done because of the
different fixed casts which exist and continue to rise for vocational
training. He expressed confidence in the ability of the Minuteman School
Committee in the budget review process.
Dr. Fitzgerald added that he considered comparison between Lexington
and YoTech budgets to be unfair because of additional costs for night
schools, courses given at the school, transportation and regional costs,
which are not borne by the Town's school system. He added that water and.
sewer rates had doubled for VoTech.
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In an overview of the FY88 budget request, replacement of 10 year old
equipment was seen to be the largest item. He stressed the importance of
training students on up -to -date and sophisticated machinery, which is what
they will be facing in industry. Salaries of teachers, administrators,
secretaries and maintenance, he said, are lower than those employed by Towns
in the region. One additional teacher will be hired to meet State
requirements,
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Dr. Fitzgerald reported that a freeze in State funding had imposed a
serious impact and was the basis of the School's request for State Aid. He
reviewed enrollment data; costs for special needs students; and gave results
of last year's graduate placement program.
Mr. McSweeney informed the Board of his favorable experience in working
with Minuteman students on the Emerald Street project. He said they had
done excellent work and paid close attention to keeping within the budget.
Mrs. Smith said she felt that there was no training more important than
vocational and that it has her strong support. She agreed with Mr. Marshall
that a headcount cannot be used in comparison with budgets of Minuteman and
Lexington Schools, but asked for clarification on the enrollment issue.
Recalling discussions with the Lexington School Committee on its
proposed budget and the view of the Board that the requested appropriations
be decreased, Mrss Smith felt that Minuteman's School Committee should be
given the same message and that its budget request be treated similarly.
Discussion continued.on escalating costs in the areas of liability
insurance, and utilities.
Mr. O'Sullivan noted that exorbitant increases in electricity costs,
both at Minuteman and Lexington High School are a major concern and asked
what could be done to get relief. Mr. Marshall said that this is one of the
issues now being addressed by the Mass. Municipal Association through
Senator Kraus and Rep. Doran.
Regarding efforts to acquire equipment of newer design, Dr. Fitzgerald
felt that the answer would be to request State funding of a two year
equipment updating program and -asked the Board's support of legislation
which would restore 50% aid to vocational regions. This, he said, would
result in lower assessments to Towns and would match town budget progress.
Mr. Eddison thanked Mr. Burnell, Mr. O'Sullivan, Dr. Fitzgerald and Mr.
Jackson for the information and viewpoints presented, adding that although
no position would be taken by the Board that evening, both sides will be
taken into consideration.
MINUTES
Upon motion duly wade and seconded, it was voted to approve, as
corrected, the minutes of the Selectmen's Meeting on January 27, 1987. The
minutes of meetings on January 28, and February 2, 1987, were approved as
presented.
BICENTENNIAL, CONSTITUTION
Mr. Eddison referred to the request by the Governor for recognition of
the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution. Because of the
historic nature of Lexington, he felt that the formation of a Committee to
plan for observances would be appropriate. He suggested that
representatives of the Historical Society, Lexington Bicentennial
Commission, Elks Lodge, American Civil Liberties. Union, School History
Department, and an Attorney could comprise the membership and asked Board
members for suggestions over t-h a next two weeks of individuals who would fit
these categories. ;:
Selectmen's Meeting -8- February 10, 1987
PROCLAMATION "NATIONAL PATRIOTISM WEEK"
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to proclaim the week
of February 16 through February 22, 1987 as "National Patriotism Week" in
in Lexington, in recognition of the 200th anniversary of the signing of the
United States Constitution=
WATER CHARGE ABATEMENT
A request for approval of abatement of water charges in the amount of
$884.84 for the Veterans' - Memorial Hospital, was reviewed. Questions arose
as to the reason for the abatement and it was agreed to table the matter
until the next meeting, pending clarification of the basis of the request.
APPOINTMENT TO HISTORICAL COMMISSION
Ms. Adler reported on the appointment by the Town Manager, subject to
the Board's approval, of Dawn E. McKenna to the Historical Commission and
outlined her qualif for membership.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
appointment by the Town Manager of Dawn E. McKenna, 50 Bridge Street, to the
Historical Commission for a term of office to expire in April, 1989.
NORTH LEXINGTON ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
Mr. Eddison reported that a' meeting will be held with Commissioner
Tierne Mass. DPW, on February 24th, which - he, the Town Manager and others
w ill attend f
_ or an update on the State's position on the .plans for
improvement to Bedford Street /Hartwell Avenue,
CONDOMINIUM CONVERSION AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Mr. Marshall was invited to represent the Town at a meeting of the
Lexington Clergy Association on March 12th, at which the Condo Conversion
issue will be discussed. Mr. Marshall noted that all Selectmen are welcome
to be present.
It was also noted that the Selectmen will meet on February 17th in
Estabrook Hail with members of the Planning Board, LexHAB, Housing
Authority, Council on Aging, and the Housing Advisory Committee on the same
matter. The Board agreed to Mrs Eddison's proposed agenda for that
meeting,,
EMERSON GARDENS TENANTS' MEETING
Mrs. Smith said that she felt the meeting organized by the Lexington
Clergy Assoc. with tenants of Emerson Gardens and Town Officials had been a
good one and that valuable information had been provided. She asked that a
fact sheet be prepared including data on apartments, and the chances of
renting units in the private sector, information on accessory apartments,
and a profile of public rental units,
In response to Mr. Dailey's suggestion that Steve Baran, Human Services
�•••• Coordinator act as an ombundsman with Emerson Gardens residents, Ms. Adler
noted that since he is a part time employee, it probably would not be
possible for him to absorb that added responsibility.
Mr. Eddison asked for data on availibility and costs of rentals in
bordering towns, which he thought might be more affordable so that that
information can be provided to Emerson Gardens tenants.
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Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5 - 4 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
9:14 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Mari n Sn�aw
Executive Clerk
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SELECTMEN'S MEETING
February 17, 1387
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A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Tuesday,
February 17, 1387, in Estabrook Hall, Carp Memorial Building, at 7:30 pant
Chairman Eddison, Mrs. Smith, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. Hutchinson, Town Manager;
Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Ms. Adler, Asst. to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow,
Executive Clerk, were present.
MITR9 CORPORATION
Mr. Eddison noted the petition of the Mitre Corporation, 91 Hartwell
Avenue for permission to occupy an existing New England Telephone Company
conduit for Installation of a fiber optic cable to provide telephone service
for employees at 33 Hartwell Avenue. The conduit space would - be leased from
the Telephone Company and no additional digging would be required. A public
hearing on the matter is not
The Chairman noted the favorable recommendation of Francis E. F ields,
Acting Director of Public Works, on the petition.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
petition and plans of Mitre Corporation for the purpose of leasing existing
conduit space between #32 and #91 Hartwell Avenue, from the New England
00ft Telephone Company.
MINUTES -
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve, as
presented, the minutes of the Selectmen's Meeting on February id, 13878
CONTRACT - WATER MAIM CLEANING LINING
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to award Contract
87 -4 -E in the amount of' $128,347.50 to W. Walsh Company, Inc. 32 Walton
St., Attleboro, MA for cleaning and lining existing water mains. The
Manager outlined the scope of -work which is expected to be finished before
fall.
UNRESOLVED TRAFFIC ITEMS
The Town Manager referred to a listing of traffic items that had been
previously considered by the Board and upon which no action was taken. He
asked that discussion of these proposals be scheduled for a meeting of the
full. Board in the near future. The items included recommendations by John
McLaughlin, Police Captain Lima and Norman Abend, CRC Traffic Consultant.
It was agreed to schedule these matters and to invite the Lexington
Center Committee and other appropriate agencies to participate in the
discussions.
LI UOR STORE BAYBANK DRIVEWAY
Pon Mr. Hutchinson asked that discussion on the proposed closing of a
driveway between the 1775 Wine & Spirit Shop and Baybank be scheduled for a
subsequent meeting of the full Board. He noted that he did not agree with
the Lexington Center Committee's recommendation for one --way traffic and felt
it represented a partial solution.
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All members present agreed to this procedure. All interested parties,
including the L.C.C. and abuttors will be invited to attend for the
discussion to he scheduled for March 3rd.
POLICE BOOTH
The Manager referenced the offer by the Mart i gnett i family to fund
construction of a Police Booth in the Center and noted the excellent input
on the proposed design from the L.C.C., the Historic Districts Commission,
and others. The L.C.C. suggestion for a 3 -foot setback had not been looked
upon favorably by the Police Chief and the Historic Districts Commission,
The Chairman asked that this item be deferred to the meeting on
February 23rd, for consideration of the full Board.
RECREATION FEES
Mr. Hutchinson outlined proposed changes in the Recreation Departments
spring and summer program foe structure. Additional revenue as a result of
increases was estimated in the following areas:
Non - resident swim tags, 104 @ $25.00/each
Youth Swim Lessons, - Additional sessions @ $5.00 each per session
Tennis Court Reservations - $3 =04 /hour with ID; $5.00/hour without ID
Men's Basketball League, fee per team increased to $30.00/night
Ballfield Permits, fee increased to $8.00
- - Lighted- Ballf ield, 8 to 8 p.m., $154 8 to 14 p. m. $35000
Total increased revenue in the amount of $8427.. was estimated.
Mr. McSweeney questioned whether the increase in Ballfield Permit fees
might discourage players from using} the facilities. Regarding the raise in
fee to off set , el ectr i cal costs for the lighted ball f i eld , he pointed out
that during} a large portion of the season, lighting} is not needed in the
early evening.
The Town Manager felt that even with the proposed increases, the fees
are quite low, and could be easily absorbed when split among the players.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
increases in fees for spring and summer programs, as proposed by Joan
Halverson, Recreation Director,
MEETING SCHEDULE
It was agreed that Selectmen's Meetings will be scheduled as follows:
Larch 3, 9, 18, 23 and 30.
LAND BANK LEGISLATION
Mrs. Miller, Chairman and Mr. Williams of the Conservation Commission,
and Mrs. Rawls, were present for revi of Land Bank Legislation, to be
proposed to the Town Meeting, under Article 41. An Information Hearing will
be held on February 24th, in Estabrook Hall at 8 p.m.
Mrs. Miller complimented Mrs. Rawls for her efforts in preparation of WNW
the text of the proposed Act to authorize a Land Bank Fund and the
explanatory material which had been distributed to the Board.
Selectmen's Meeting --3-- February 17, 198
Mrs,, Rawls briefly reviewed features. of the proposal, which she said
would have to receive approval by the State Legislature, following Town
Meeting adoption, Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard have passed such
legislation.
A tax of 1% on land transacti with a $100,000 exemption, would be
imposed in Lexington with 20% of the revenue used for a housing land fund
and 80% for acquisition of conservation land.
The Commissioners and Mrs. Rawls were thanked by the Chairman for their
attendance and for the information presented,
CONSENT I AGENDA
ABATEMENT OF WATER CHARGES-VET'S MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
Ms. Adler explained that water charges are being abated in the amount
of $884.64 for the Ve t er an f s Memorial Hospital because of a need to adjust
the billing to reflect a portion of the billing, period in which the old,
lower rates applied.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve abatement
of water charges in the amount of $884.64 for the Veterans' Memorial
Hospital, 200 Springs Road.
C "ON VICTUALLER LICENSE . 4 EEL CANTO
��� ^II I III I1 1 1111 �11 ��I IIIII�IIi1P19�
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
appli of Daman Enterprises, Inc. d /b /a Bel Canto Restaurant, for
change of address shown on its Common Victualler License to 211
Massachusetts avenue, temporary quarters.
CONDO COWERS I ON /AFFORDABLE HOUSING ISSUES
Mr. Eddi son explained that the purpose of the meeting was to move
forward with the long --term issue of improved of f ordab,Le housing stock and on
a short -term basis to provide help and support to Emerson Gardens tenants,
now involved in the experience of conversion of their homes -to condominiums.
He reviewed the Town's - progress for the last ten years with respect to
provision of low and moderate income housing units, which total Ogg units,
as shown in a report submitted by the Town Manager, and he described the
roles of Town Boards and Agencies in the procedures which led to their
development.
Members of the Planning Board, Council on Aging, LexHAB, Housing
Authority, and the Housing Advisory Committee, were present by i n v i t a t i o n to
present their views on ways to increase available, affordable housing in the
Town.
Mrs. Uhr i g, Chairman of the Planning Board, stated her Board's position
as put forth in a Resolution to be proposed to the Town Meeting under
Article 50. Five recommendations are to be presented in the Resolution
increased inventory of affordable housing; reliance on both private and
public initiatives to accomplish this end; procedures to be undertaken by
Town board and authorities involved in production of housing; leading to a
presentation to the 1988 Town Meeting of specific proposals for the
development of low /moderate or mixed income housing developments; a request
that the Selectmen be responsible for the analysis and implementation, if
feasible, of certain techniques for providing or insuring the availability
of affordable rental housing; and that the planning Board and Board of
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Selectmen report to the 1988 and 1989 Town Meetin on progress towar the
goal of increasing the availability of affordable rental housi
Mrs, Flemings, Chairman of the Planning Board's Housing Advi
Committee, s tated that the p a r t i c u l a r concern of her committee is the
provision of affordable housing and the measures the Town can undertake to
accomplish this goal. ...r
She urged that ways be found t encourage the use of the Accessor
Apartment by-law in the large o f der houses in the Town as one means to this
end ,
With respect to the State Condominium Conversion Law and local
ordinances adopted in some communities, she noted that neither can prevent
eviction, and without rent control, do not ensure affordability. Her
committee recommended that great care and extensi research be undertaken
if such a local 1 aw is to be considered by Lexington.
Mr. Hays, Chairman of LexHAB, descr i bed the function of his Board which
is unique to Lexington and was formed under State Law by a Special Act in
1983. He read this statute which described the c o m p o s i t i o n of the Board and
its Charge.
Mr. Hays described the 10 Mu z z ey units awned by LexHAB, and spoke of
the process whereby LexHAB had been able to purchase these units. He
referred to the recently built and acquired Emerald Street housing, which is
now rented to low income tenants.
He noted that LexHAB has a small role in housing, but listed four areas
in which he hopes that LexHAB will be able to assist Emerson Gardens
tenants:
. rental of units at Mu z z ey , as they become available, to those who
meet asset/income c r i t e r i a
. purchase by LexHAB of privately owned Muzzey condos when possible to
add to its stock of rental units
V construction or conversion of uni elsewhere in Town, as on Emerald
Street. _
a rent supplement funding - program possibly broadened to include
others, for Emerson Gardens- residents at the end of the protection
per i od .
Mr. Hays will present these proposals to LexHAB and is hoping for their
approval by his Board.
Mrs McLaughlin, Chairman of the Housing Authority, n that the
housing situation in Lexington is more difficult for those who have assets
and income which may bring them just above the limit far assistance from the
Housing Authority. Of those applying from Emerson Gardens, thus far, only
four have met the assets c r i t e r i a which had a limit of $15,000.
He reported that the age limit for elderly housing has been dropped to
62 and welcomed all to apply at the Housing Authority office to see where
they stand and to do so as soon as possible.
Questions were asked about income levels for low /moderate categories
and the definition of "affordable" ho-using. Mr . Bowyer added that 2B'I of
income is a reasonable expectation for housing costs.
Mrs. Boggi a, Chairman of the Council on Aging, reported that the C o A
has established a housing subcommittee to study the availability of housing
Selectmen's Meeting M5- ebr u ar y 17, 1987
at low/moderate income levels and to aid the elderly of Lexington to obtain
suitable housing.
She noted that approximately 140 elderly persons will be seeking
raw alternate housing because of the Emerson Gardens conversion, adding that the
displacement of many of the C o A volunteers makes this an extremely
s e n s i t i v e issue.
Because of the difficulties and expenses encountered in rezoning
petitions to allow for rental developments, the lack of existing land and
the high cost of construction, the lack of affordable housing is even more
apparent in Lexington.
She referred to a - report that a developer had been able to construct
moderate income units in Boston when a similar conversion incident had
threatened a number of people and that the developer would be willing to
come to Lexington,
She felt that the Accessory Apartment by-law should be revised so as to
make that concept possible and more attractive to owners of large homes.
Mrs. Boggi a also proposed a congregate housing development, similar to
Cho a t e-Symmed , but at affordable prices for the older citizens .
She also spoke of Town condo law adoption, which would not solve the
problems inherent in the conversion process, but could lengthen the eviction
period. She suggested that LexHAB or the B o A could act as an agent to
provide a l i s t i n g of properties available and to qualify tenant
registrations
Lion Wilson, member of LexHAB and the Housing Authority, noted that
units under the jurisdiction of the Housing Authority have been funded by
State and Federal monies and therefore cannot be restricted to Lexington
residents only. He added that LexHAB is not on a State /Federal budget, with
its related red tape, but that it has limited units. He advocated accessary
apartments as the fastest and most workable s o l u t i o n , He recommended
exploration of easier, clearer, less restrictive zoning by- -laws, and
publicity on the concept,
B - o b Bowyer noted _the complex procedure necessary to engage in such a
project and felt that homeowners should be given assistance in the p l a n n i n g " '
process:
Wa t han Becker, Chairman of the Emerson Gardens Tenants A s s o c i a t i o n ,
expressed the gratitude of the residents to the Town agencies which are
making an effort to assist them but noted the time frame which exists in
which to provide the needed housing. He felt that after the mandated two
year protection period, the owners would neglect the property and that the
qual i ty of. l i f e would be lowered f or tenants. He saw the need to put the
conversion on hold for four years, during which period there would be time
to increase the stack of alternate units.
He reported that his committee plans to request a Special Town Meeting
to delay the conversion and asked all Boards to work with the Association in
support of the plan.
Robert Cushman of the Human Services C o m m i t t e e , said that housing is
one of five human needs considered priorities of his committee.
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He proposed a partnership'
ar tnershi p' of owners /resi dents in the purchasing of
units. The residents would pay a small down payment on a 25/ mortgage with •
monthly payments comparable to current rents .
Investors would provide 75 of the purchase price for units, and would
realize 75 of the value upon sale of the units.
He recommended that a part-time administrator be hired by L ex HAB who
would also help with legal documents etc,
He listed the advantages of such a procedure as follows
. affordable housing units retained
25% equity for residents and ?b for investors
. Lei€ HAB would receive management fees
. the owner would get his units sold
He gave a breakdown of the financial picture for residents, investors
and the owners, noting that the Human Services Committee set up a similar
process for a house an Lowell Street and that it had worked out well,
D i c k Eaton, Emerson Gardens resident and member of the Tenants
Association, thanked Mr. Becker for his excellent presentation and
congratulated the planning Board for its efforts with regard to the
R e s o l u t i o n . He felt however, that it did not face up to several issues.
He asked to establishment of rent control; protection to those facing
eviction in one year; and that the elderly be allowed.. to l i v e out their
lives i n Emerson Gardens.
At the request of the Chairman, Mrs,, Smith summarized progress made at
the meeting that evening.
Mrs. Smith felt that the meeting had been one of the most heartening in
her experience, with all affected persons and those who care and can try to
effect solutions, present. She noted that the crisis of of housing is
a Town wide ma t t er , not Just for Emerson Gardens. She thanked all members.
of Town Boards for their attendance and their information on what is being
done and what is possible in the future.
She felt it important for the Selectmen to coordinate programs
presented with the concerns of residents. `
She recommended that the Zoning By-Law be looked at regarding changes
to make provision for more rental units, i.e. accessory apartments. She
also saw the Planning Board's i nclusi onary zoning policy as an opportunity
for gaining more units.
She felt that the Emerson Gardens situation had been a catalyst for
action with respect to the housing problem.
Mr. Edd i so n assured the Emerson Gardens tenants that the Town is
looking at bath lone and short term solutions and will attempt to buy more
time and to expand the p o s s i b i l i t i e s for affordable housing in Lexington,
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at
9:x0 p.m.
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A true record, Attest: ._
anion H. Snow
Executive Clerk
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SELECTMEN'S MEETING
i X, r Februar Y 23 , 1987
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A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on
Monday, February 23, 1987, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town
Office Building, at 7:34 p.m. Chairman Eddison, Mr. Marshall, Mr.
Dailey, Mrs. Smith, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. Hutchinson, Town Manager;
Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present.
MINUTES
Upon motion duly Made and seconded, it was voted to approve
as presented the minutes of the Selectmen's Meeting on February
17, 1987.
RESIGNATION, SCOULER, HATS
Upon motion duly - made and seconded, it was voted to accept,
with regret, the resignation of will. iam' J. Scouler, 144-Simonds
Road, as Member -at large of the Hanscom Area Traffic Study
Committee, effective immediately. The Board's appreciation of Mr.
Scouler's service to the Town will be expressed in a letter to
him.
LEXINSTCN CENTER POLICE BOOTH
Mr. Hutchinson noted that the Lexington Center Committee had
generally approved the design & scale of the proposed Lexington
Center Police booth, - but had recommended a-dutch door in front for
quick egress and response to inquiries, and a 3 -foot setback to
enable an officer to stand in front to direct traffic.
The design, as presented, had received Historic Districts
Commission approval.. The Manager reported that Chief Furdon
opposes the setback concept for safety reasons and because it
would lessen Police visibility.
Mr. Coscia, Manager of Administration /Facilities, showed
front and side elevations of the booth, noting that windows will
be located on all sides. He explained the additional costs
involved in changing to a 3 -foot setback, which would mean
relocation of an existing sidewalk planter to avoid interference
with pedestrian flow.
Mr. McSweeney said that Mr. Ossman, L.C.C. member, had
advi - sed the increased setback so as to line up with trees which he
considered to be more pleasing visually.
Suggestions were made for a loud speaker operating from
inside the booth, which the Manager will arrange when such details
are being dealt with.
The footprint of the bases will be outlined in tape before
construction starts to allow for inspection by the Selectmen
regarding placement of the booth.
Based upon the approvals by the Historic Districts Commission
and the Lexington Center Committee, the Board agreed with the
Manager's plan to go forward with construction plans as proposed.
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USE of BATTLE GREEN
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve
the request of Molly Nye, President of Gallery on the Green, Inc.,
to permit display on the Battle Green of a wood sculpture of
baseball player Willy Mays in acknowledgement of opening day of
the baseball season on April 8, 1987.
ABATEMENT OF WATER SEWED CHARGES
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve
abatement of sewer charges in the total amount of $29,178.33 and
of related water charges in the total amount of $32,074.47. These
adjustments were necessary due to computer error, incorrect meter
readings, adjustments to final bills because of the rate increase;
and for properties not connected to Town sewer.
ONE LAS' LIQUOR LICENSEs ST. BRIGID'S
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve
the application of the St. Brigid's Couples Club for One Lay
Liquor License on March 31, 1987, from 8 p.m. to 12 midnight, for
a St. Patrick's Party to be held in Keilty Hall.
CHAPTER 90 REIMBURSEMENT FORMS HARTWELL AVENUE
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve
and execute Chapter 90 Reimbursement Request #2 for-funding of -
engineering services relative - to Hartwell Avenue construction
plans, in the amount of $3,5408
COMMITMENT OF WATER CHARGES
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to execute
Commitment of Water Charges in the total amount of $2,279.80, as
requested by the Director of Public Works.
BINDING ARBITRATION H-1745
The Manager referred to House Bill 1745, which would
reinstate a form of binding arbitration for public safety
contracts and would constitute a major amendment to Proposition
2 113. He saw the proposal as an intrusion into "home rule" and
felt that it would seriously compromise the Town's bargaining
position.
He strongly opposed the legislation and asked that the Board
authorize him to register this position with Rep. Doran, Senator
Kraus and Governor Dukakis.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize
the Town Manager to communicate the Board's opposition to H -1745.
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Selec tmen's Meeting - 3- February 23, 1 987
RES T CHAT I C . N.. L . POTTER f ASSESSORS
Mr. Hutchinson informed the Board of the resignation of
William Potter from the Board of .Assessors and requested an
expression of the Board's appreciation for his long service to the
Town in this capacity. A tribute, is some appropriate form to be
decided upon later, will be presented to Mr. Potter in A p r i l ,
The Manager reported that he had recruited Robert Leone,
former Chairman of the Data Processing Committee to fill the
Assessor vacancy, and gave Mr. Leone's background and fields of
expertise which it was felt would well qualify him to serve.
BEDFORD REQUEST FOR WATER
Mr. Hutchinson informed
has requested an extension of
which allows Bedford to draw
system. He saw no objection
contamination of their wells
the Board that the Town of Bedford
the 1978 agreement with Lexington
a supply of water through the Town's
to the extension, noting that
has not yet been corrected.
BEDFORD STREET-MEETING
Mr. Edd i so n noted - a meeting with DPW Commissioner Tierney on
February 24th, which he, Mr. Hutchinson, Mr. Fields, Mrs.
Castleman, Vice Chairman of the North Lexington T r a f f i c
Improvement Study Committee and ,Julian Bussgang wi attend. The
meeting was arranged to see if progress can be made with the
Bedford Street Improvement Plan impasse.
HANSCOM FIELD BUSINESS PLAN _ ;Joyce Hals of -Masspor t was present for review of the business
report on Hanscom Field en t i t l ed "State o f Hanscom , which
reviewed the accomplishments of FY' S6 and provided an outline of
the projects under consideration. f or 1987.
Mrs. Haas noted that overall, operations have declined for
the past three years. However , less noise is generated because the
modern jets are quieter. Je t flights have increased by !Yl during
that same period. She reported that SCE new T-- hangers for l i g h t
.aircraft and S corporate sized hangers have been constructed
during the past year and noted that the possibility of additional
hangars on land at Virginia Road is being explored.
With respect to future a v i a t i o n uses, Mrs. Hals referred to
the Greiner Report. She felt that any development planned for the
Ci Terminal area would have only a very indirect impact on
Lexington regarding water and sewer.
Further reports were given on a new Jet Aviation hangar;
preparation of a Generic Environmental Report; the Transition Zone
Study now in progress; reexamination of Noise Rules; passible
plans for a public picnic area; and review of the Master Plan.
Under opportunities for 1987 and the future, Mrs. Hals
briefly reviewed plans to complete the Civil Terminal Area Site
Plan and the SEI Report. She noted Masspor is opposition to the
Lincoln 47 Acres development planned for a site abutting Massp o r t
land, adding however that Masspor t will work closely with Lincoln
on the housing project and with the developer of the office
complex. She referred to plans for realignment of Old Bedford
Road to provide better u t i l i z a t i o n of the Lincoln site and noted
the possibility of a land swap to facilitate the realignment,
. 4-
Mrs. Hals noted plans being considered for a limited service
100 - 120 roam hotel which include neither restaurant nor
conference rooms. An analysis will be made at a similar f a c i l i t y moo
to assess the traffic impact on the roadways.
She felt that the concept was a good one based on the unmet
need for lodging for pilots and their passengers in the immediate
area. During the next few months, a request for proposal package
will be developed and discussed with the Hanscom Field Advisor y
Commission.
Mr. Marshall questioned the basis of the assumption that lack
of roams exist in the area without the benefit of a study plan.
He referred to two meetings in 1986, when Massport stated that no
expansion plans were being entertained. Mr. Eddi son referred to
a previous hotel proposal which involved 200 rooms, said by the
proponents to be the minimum for economic feasibility, and felt
that a developer in this situation may insist on more than the 100
120 rooms.
Mrs . Hal s will provide information as to haw many pilots and
other users of Hanscom facilities spend nights in the area •
Mr . Marshall noted Lexington's struggle to implement the
plans for widening and improving Marret t Road - , which now will be
further impacted by the Lincoln development. He stated his intent
to fight the hotel plans and felt they should be abandoned. He
voiced his support of legislation to subject Massport to local
zoning.
Mr. McSweeney was concerned with the increase i n the number
of hangars relative to overflow from Logan Airport and felt that
other-airports such as Beverly and Norwood.. should be equally ...r
involved. _ _ -
Mrs. Hals responded by listing f av- orable aspects of
Hanscom $ which make it a good al t er n -a t i v e . She added that she
felt Massport makes great effort to be a good neighbor and is
conscious of .local concerns.
Massport consideration of the acquisition of 50 acres of land
in Bedford abutting Masspor t' s property was noted. The land
could, if not acquired by Massp o r t , be a future development area
for housing, which would be incompatible with the noise contour
l i n e in that area.
With reference to Mrs. Hals' enumeration of the assets of
Hanscom and its d e s i r a b i l i t y as an airport Mr. Dailey said he
felt that there is tremendous p o t e n t i a l for expansion of the
operation, H recalled Massport statements in 1986 denying plans
for expansion and pointed out-that neither the land acquisition
plan nor the hotel had been part of the Master Plan. He suggested
that Masspar t ' s decisions were swayed by the opportunity for
income. He was opposed to the hotel and concerned that Massport
appears to entertain any proposal to make money, adding that
Massport should be more straight forward by informing its
neighbors when considering expansion plans. He saw Masspor is
actions as an indication that Towns should be on guard.
Mrs. Hals responded that Massport does weigh pros and cans of
proposals and has turned down various airport related projects in VMW
the past.
selectmen's meeting -5- February 23 t 1987
Mr. Edd i sun asked how Massport's protestati of concern for
communities could be reconciled with its aggressive challenge to
Lexington's effort to purchase the railroad spur land for bikeway
use, Mrs. Hals explained that Massport's action was the result of
a request by a member of the Board of Di rectors who saw potent
for use of the spur by Massport.
Robert Domnitz, Hanscom Field Advisory Commission member,
felt that Massport underprices its services at Hanscom and wants
to respond to demands that arise. He gave his views on various
issues such as the purchase of the rai right -of -way, the
Bedford land acquisition proposal, and.Jhe hotel project. He said
the Commission had not felt that airport traffic would justify a
120 - room hotel, but that Mr. Davis, Massport Director, had seen
utilization by spillover from other local hbttls.
Peter Barker, 17.Fuller Road, saw inconsistency in
Massport's statements and its actions with respect to the Master
gl an a ne sense of concern at H anscom Field Commission
greetings, the majority of whose members have vested interests vs
community interests. He also felt that Massport is endeavori .ng to
increase its operations and spoke - of impacts several years down
the road resultant from current activities. He voiced his
disatisfaction with Massport's responses to complaints of
increased generation of noise.
Mr. Marshall asked about the attendance record of Lexington's
representative on the Hanscom Field Commission, who is a pilot and
who had been unable to attend that evening's meeting. He said he
would like to have strong advocacy on the Commission relative to
slowing Massport down - - -
Mrs Hutchinson noted a public hearing to be held on a Senate
fill sponsored by Senator Amick on March 11. The intent of the
bill is to subject any non air - related activities to take place on
the airfield to local zoning and other Town regulations. He asked
for a decision on the official stand of the Board on the
legislation and will prepare a draft statement of support for the
Board's consideration on March 3.
Mr. Hutchinson further suggested that Senator Kraus and
Representative Doran be asked to examine the statute under which
Massport operates to determine the scope of activities allowed
under its charge and to get a more exact definition of "air
related activities ".
Mr. Eddison thanked Mrs. Hals for her attendance and asked
that the Board's unanimous concern regarding apparent
inconsistencies with respect to PR vs actions be conveyed to
Massport.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn
at 9 : p.m
x
A true record, Attest.
� arion H. now
Executive Clerk
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