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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1987-02-BOS-min fl E I k• k t r r , 4 t k SELECTMEN'S MEETING d February 2, 1987 1 r A regular meeting o the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, February 2, 1887, 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; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Ms. Adler, Asst. to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. ARTICLE 2, STM Mr. Eddison will present the motion on Article 2, 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, 1987. ATM WARRANT SIGNED Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve and execute pion 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 Corporation 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 in the preparation 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 Hale 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 informing the Board of the plans. The Town Manager will explore the situation and will prepare a report for clarification. MODERATOR COLE RECOGNITION ,.. Mr. Eddison recapped plans for recognition of Lincoln P. Cole, to take I place after his last session as Town Moderator that night at the Special 1 Town Meeting. He will present an engraved pewter bowl to Mr. Cole on behalf of the Board. a' meg Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 7:45 p.m. A true record, Attest: /1(Nr - Marion H. Snow Executive Clerk ..me T i ' w SELECTMEN'S MEETING 1 February 10, 1987 A regular meetingof t Board of Selectmen was held on Tuesday, February 10, 1987, in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:30 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 provision of services andro osed that the p p Selectmen exert influence to cause the school budget to come under closer scrutiny. He noted 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 matter, 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 1/3 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 costs 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 VoTech 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. ,■.. 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. mow 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, Mrs. 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. "'mi' 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 made 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 mow members for suggestions over the next two weeks of individuals who would f i t these categories. rift Selectmen's Meeting -3- 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 $884.64 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 qualifications 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 Tierney, Mass. DPW, on February 24th, which her the Town Manager and others will aend for 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 Hall 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 Mr. 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 sm. 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. mow -4- 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 9:14 p.m. A true record, Attest: n ( n (j/k/1 /6 Marion Snow 6 Executive Clerk mow { mom \' 1 F soma ry l Y 7 SELECTMEN'S MEETING February 17, 1987 )4) �ry A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Tuesday, February 17, 1987, in Estabrook Hall, Cary Memorial Building, at 7:30 p.m. 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. MITRE 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 32 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 required. The Chairman noted the favorable recommendation of Francis X. Fields, 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 0011ft 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 10, 1987. CONTRACT - WATER MAIN 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. LIQUOR STORE/BAYBANK DRIVEWAY F••• 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. 4 -2- 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 be scheduled for March 3rd. POLICE BOOTH The Manager referenced the offer by the Mart i gne tt 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 fee structure. Additional revenue as a result of increases was estimated in the following areas: Non-resident swim tags, 100 @ $25.00/each Youth Swim Lessons, - Additional sessions @ $5.00 each per session Tennis Court Reservations - $3.00/hour with ID; $5.00/hour without ID Men's Basketball League, fee per team increased to $30.00/night Ballf i eld Permits, fee increased to $8.00 ...• Lighted- Ballfield, 6 to 8 p.m. , $15. ; 8 to 10 p.m. $35.00 Total increased revenue in the amount of $6427. 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 offset electrical costs for the lighted ballfield, 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: March 3, 9, 16, 23 and 30. LAND BANK LEGISLATION Mrs. Miller, Chairman and Mr. Williams of the Conservation Commission, and Mrs. Rawls, were present for review 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 ..., 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, 1987 Mrs. Rawls briefly reviewed features of the proposal, which she said would have to receive approval by the State Legislature, following Town 0. Meeting adoption. Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard have passed such legislation. A tax of 1% on land transactions, 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 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 Veteran'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 $88 4.64 for the Veterans' Memorial Hospital, 200 Springs Road. COMMON VICTUALLER LICENSE. BEL CANTO Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application of Daman Enterprises, Inc. d/b/a Bel Canto Restaurant , f o r change of address shown on its Common Victualler License to 211 Massachusetts Avenue, temporary quarters. CONDO CONVERSION/AFFORDABLE HOUSING ISSUES weft Mr. Eddison 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 489 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 invitation to present their views on ways to increase available, affordable housing in the Town. Mrs. Uhrig, 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 -4- Selectmen report to the 1988 and 1989 Town Meetings on progress towards the goal of increasing the availability of affordable rental housing. Mrs. Flemings, Chairman of the Planning Board's Housing Advisory Committee, stated that the particular 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 to encourage the use of the Accessory Apartment by-law in the large older 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 extensive research be undertaken if such a local law is to be considered by Lexington. Mr. Hays, Chairman of LexHAB, described 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 composition of the Board and its Charge. Mr. Hays described the 10 Muzzey units owned 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 Muzzey, as they become available, to those who meet asset/income criteria ▪ purchase by LexHAB of privately owned Muzzey condos when possible to add to its stock of rental units ✓ construction or conversion of units elsewhere in Town, as on Emerald mom Street. • a rent supplement funding -program possibly broadened to include others, for Emerson Gardens- residents at the end of the protection period. Mr. Hays will present these proposals to LexHAB and is hoping for their approval by his Board. Mr. McLaughlin, Chairman of the Housing Authority, noted that the housing situation in Lexington is more difficult for those who have assets and income which may bring them just above the limit for assistance from the Housing Authority. Of those applying from Emerson Gardens, thus far, only four have met the assets criteria 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" housing. Mr. Bowyer added that 28% of income is a reasonable expectation for housing costs. Mrs. Boggia, 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 -5- February 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 alternate housing because of the Emerson Gardens conversion, adding that the row displacement of many of the C o A volunteers makes this an extremely sensitive 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. Boggia also proposed a congregate housing development, similar to Choate-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 C o A could act as an agent to provide a listing of properties available and to qualify tenant registration. Don 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 accessory Porn apartments as the fastest and most workable solution. He recommended exploration of easier, clearer, less restrictive zoning by-laws, and _ publicity on the concept. Bob Bowyer noted _the complex procedure necessary to engage in such a project and felt that homeowners should be given assistance in the planning process. Nathan Becker, Chairman of the Emerson Gardens Tenants Association, 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 quality of life would be lowered for tenants. He saw the need to put the conversion on hold for four years, during which period there would be time to increase the stock 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 Committee, said that housing is one of five human needs considered priorities of his committee. -6- He proposed a partnership of owners/residents 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 LexHAB 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 75% for investors LexHAB 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 on Lowell Street and that it had worked out well . Dick 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 Resolution. 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 live out their lives in 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 o n e 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- lack of housing is a Town wide matter, 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 inclusionary zoning policy as an opportunity for gaining more units. She felt that the Emerson Gardens situation had been a catalyst f o r action with respect to the housing problem. Mr. Edd i so n assured the Emerson Gardens tenants that the Town is looking at both long and short term solutions and will attempt to buy more time and to expand the possibilities for affordable housing in Lexington. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:40 p.m. (// i/ A true record, Attest: /5 ' trX17- \61:41er-a:) 4u/./6 anion H. Snow Executive Clerk f i ),\ 7.. it SELECTMEN'S MEETING ,February 23, 1987 F, 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 7:30 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, SCCULERI HATS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept, with regret, the resignation of William 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. r"`" LEXINGTON 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 advised 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 pew 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. 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 6, 1987. ABATEMENT OF WATER/SEWER CHARGES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve abatement of sewer charges in the total amount of $29,176.33 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 DAY LIQUOR LICENSE, 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 Day Liquor License on March 21, 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 .mow and execute Chapter 90 Reimbursement Request #2 for _funding of - engineering services relative to Hartwell Avenue construction plans, in the amount of $3,500. 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 2 112. 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. Selectmen's Meeting -3- February 23, 1987 RES I CHAT I ON, POTTER, 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 April. 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 the Board that the Town of Bedford has requested an extension of the 1978 agreement with Lexington which allows Bedford to draw a supply of water through the Town's system. He saw no objection to the extension, noting that contamination of their wells has not yet been corrected. BEDFORD STREET MEETING Mr. Eddison noted a meeting with DPW Commissioner Tierney on February 24th, which he, Mr. Hutchinson, Mr. Fields, Mrs. Castleman, Vice Chairman of the North Lexington Traffic Improvement Study Committee and Julian Bussgang will 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 ofMassport was present for review of the business report on Hanscom Field entitled "State of Hanscom" , which reviewed the accomplishments of FY'86 and provided an outline of the projects under consideration for 1987. Mrs. Hals noted that overall , operations have declined for the past three years. However, less noise is generated because the modern jets are quieter. Jet flights have increased by 9% during that same period. She reported that 30 new T--hangers for light aircraft and 8 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 aviation uses, Mrs. Hals referred to the Greiner Report. She felt that any development planned for the Civil 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; possible 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 Massport's opposition to the p"` Lincoln 47 Acres development planned for a site abutting Massport land, adding however that Massport 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 utilization 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 room hotel which include neither restaurant nor conference rooms. An analysis will be made at a similar facility to assess the traffic impact on the roadways. Imo 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 Advisory Commission. Mr. Marshall questioned the basis of the assumption that lack of rooms 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. Eddison 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. Hals will provide information as to how 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 Marrett 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 in the number of hangars relative to overflow from Logan Airport and felt that other airports such as Beverly and Norwood should be equally NNW involved. Mrs. Hals responded by listing the many favorable aspects of Hanscom, which make it a good alternative. 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 Massport's property was noted. The land could, if not acquired by Massport, be a future development area for housing, which would be incompatible with the noise contour line in that area. With reference to Mrs. Hals' enumeration of the assets of Hanscom and its desirability as an airport, Mr. Dailey said he felt that there is tremendous potential for expansion of the operation. He 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 Massport'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 Massport's actions as an indication that Towns should be on guard. Mrs. Hals responded that Massport does weigh pros and cons of proposals and has turned down various airport related projects in mow the past . Selectmen's Meeting _5_ February 23, 1987 Mr. Eddison asked how Massport's protestations of concern for 7.. 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 Directors who saw potential 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 rail:toad right-of-way, the Bedford land acquisition proposal, and.)he 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 hotels. Peter Barker, 17 Fuller Road, saw inconsistency in Massport's statements and its actions with respect to the Master gialaw a new sense of concern at Hanscom field Commission meetings, the majority of whose members have vested interests vs community interests. He also felt that Massport is endeavoring 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 Commissionrelativeto slowing Massport down. Mr. 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 9:25 p.m. r.. A true record, Attest: d arion H. now Executive Clerk 1