HomeMy WebLinkAbout1988-03-BOS-min.,., SELECT 1T S D= ING
19
March 7
i
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Noonday,
March 7, 1988, in the Selectmen's Meeting Roan Town Office Building, at
7:30 p.m.. Chairman Eddison, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Dailey, Mrs. Smith, Mr.
Mc y ; Mr. White ■ Town Manager; Mr. Cohen , Town Counsel; Mrs, Snow,
Executive Clerk, were present.
PROCLAMATION, D Y �
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to proclaim the
week of March 13 -20, 1988 as International DeMolay Week, in recognition
of the 59th anniversary of the order of DeMolay.
LONG TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE
Debcr Myers of the Personnel Advisory Board, and Susan Adler,
Asst, to the Town Manager, were present for discussion of a long term
disability insurame program for Town employees. The proposal is to be
presented to Town Meeting under Article 48,
The program would be c letely funded by employees with the Town
responsible for payroll deduction, if desired. Participation in the
program would be voluntary. LTD would provide employees with a long
term alternative to sick leave in the event of a non -work related
disability.
Ms. Myers explained features of the programs, as regulated by
Chapter 32B of the General Laws. The Personnel Advisory Board feels
that LTD coverage would significantly enhance the benefits package now
being offered to Town employees,
The P.A.B. is continuing to explore aspects of the program such as
the implications of a 6-month non -- covered period for subscribers and its
impact upon those who have not accrued much sick leave time. Ms. Myers
noted that the petition for the required special legislation is a
prel=nary step to discussion with affected employees and prospective
carrpanies to design a program that will meet employee needs and will
protect the Town's interest.
Mr. Marshall encouraged the efforts of the P.A.B, and saw the
program as a benefit needed by most employees .
Mr. White reported that the School CawLittee has agreed to consider
the - ram
PUL U9
and will discuss it with the P.A.B. He recamended that the
Selectmen support Article 48 at Town Meeting.
Mr. Eddison thanked Ms. Myers and Ms. Adler for the information
provided. He sensed general agreement among Board members that the
P.A.B. could be assured of the Selectmen's support of Article 48 when
positions are taken on Warrant Articles.
TREE CITY USA AJQM
Mr. Edd - c)n announced that Lexington had been named as a 1987 Tree
City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation. He congratulated Dick
pow Spiers, Director of Public Works, on keeping the Town well cared for and
attractive in the tree and shrubbery areas and asked that the
appreciation of the Board also be conveyed to Paul Mazerall , Tree
Warden, who as absent due to illness.
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Upon motion duly made and second, it was voted to award Contract
#88-1, Reroofing at Munroe School, to Professional Roofing, 68A Webb
Street, Salem, in the amount of $31,899, as recarinended. by the Town,
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Engineer,
The contract was awarded subject to approval by Town Counsel as to
bid form.
SUBDIVISION TAX TITLE LOTS
Ms. Adler' s memo of March 4, 1988, referencing the request of Mr. &
Mrs. McDonald, 454 Dowell Street, to purchase a portion of a tax title
lot which abuts their property. The McDonalds wish to extend a driveway
through to Laconia Street to facilitate entrance and exit by Mrs.
McDonald, who is a paraplegic and drives her car with hand controls.
Mr. Marshall excused. h imse 1 f f ra m the discussion because of a
relationship of Mrs. Marshall with owners of one of the lots involved.
Mr. White noted procedures followed before the inposition of a
moratorium on sale of tax title lots whereby all abuttors were given the
opportunity to bid on a lot being sought. This procedure was followed
and one other Lowell Street abuttor had expressed interest in acquiring
a portion of the lot.
It was felt that since the town owned lot would be divided by
purchase by the Venutis and the MacDonalds, the other three abuttors
should be again contacted and offered the corresponding portions of the
lots for $1.00 per square foot, with the restriction that the land
remain unbuildable.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the
submission of a subdivision plan of the land to the Planning Board and
that the Selectmen authorize the sale of the lots to interested abettors
at $1.04 per square foot, with "no-build" and such other restrictions as
Town Counsel may suggest,
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve, as
corrected, the minutes of the Selectmen's Meeting on February 3, 19880
RESIGNATION, TOM CEI RATIONS [OMI EE
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept with
regret the resignation of Karen M. Gaughan as a momber of the Town
Celebrations C:cmm 0 ttee.
SELECTMEN'S GIFT ACCOUNT
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept for
deposit in the Selectmen's Gift Account the balance of funds collected
for the Bob Hutchinson Appreciation Party in the amount of $875.38, to
be used at a later date for the purchase a bench or sane other
enhancement for Lex ington Center in Mr. Hu on' s name.
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LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS, AMIC K, KRAUS
Mr. Eddison asked for a consensus of the positions of the Board on
three Hanscam Field related Senate bills, filed by Senator Amick, and on
Special Education Placements and Assessment of Property Tax bills filed
by Senator Kraus,
Selectmen's Meeting -3--
Mrs. Smith absented herself from the meeting during discussion of
Senator Amick' s bills, due to Mrs. Smith's irnvolve meat with Massport.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to inform Senator
Amick of the Lexington Selectmen's support of Senate bills listed as
fol laws :
Senate No. 1225 - Payments by Massport in Lieu of Taxes to the
Towns of Bedford o , Lexington, Concord and Lincoln
Senate No. 1226 -- Distribution of the Jet Fuel Tax collected at
Lawrence G. Hansccrn Field,,
Senate No. 1392 - Developments non - related to operation of aircraft
at Lawrence G. Hansca. Field.
It was noted that Selectman Smith had been erroneous ly listed as a
sponsor of Senate Bill No. 1392. Senator Amick will be notified that
Mrs. Smith's name should be removed from the list.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to inform Senator
Kraus of the Selectmen's support of legislation filed by him concerning
State Assistance for the Cost of Certain Special Education Placements
and of legislation relative to certain votes by Local Appropriation
Authorities on the Assessment of Property Taxes.,
Mrs. Smith alerted the Board that House Bill 2741, dealing with
funding of the MwRA Advisory Board, will be heard on March 10th.
Discussion of the Board's position on the Bill will be placed on
the March 14th agenda.
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CUq4ITMENT OF SEWER & TgATER BILLS
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
canmiitment of final Sewer Bills for the month of February in the amount
of $338.80; Final Water Bills for the month of February in the amount of
$315,o 2 4 ; and Chicle 9 Water Bills for the month of March in the amount of
$50,766.990
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve
abatement of Sewer Charges in the total amount of $297.27, for
properties not connected to Town sewer.
, PROCLAMATION , RED CROSS MCNTH
Upon motion duly made and seconded. it was voted to proclaim the
month of March, 1988, as Red cross Month, in acknowledg of the
125th anniversary of its founding.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 9:30
p.m.
A true record Attest:
Marion H. Snow
Executive Clerk
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pow SEUDCTMEN 'S G
March 14, 19
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monda
1958 in � � Y■
March 14
■ the Selectmen s Meeting . Roan Town O f f ice Building,
,
at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Eddison, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Dailey, airs. Smith.
Mr. McSweene Mr. White ■ Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Couns Mrs.
Snow, :Executive Clerk, were present.
PAINTING OF B TAVE
'
The again considered the proposal of the Lexington Historical
Society regarding repainting of the Buckman Tavern with a change of
color fram white to pale mustard, as discussed on February 29th.
Mr. Eddison noted the proponents' presentation to the Design
Advisory CZaTnittee on March 3rd, and the DAC's unanimou consensus in
favor of the new color.
Upon motion duly made and seconded,, it was voted to authorize the
Iexin Historical Society to petition the Historic Districts
Commission for. remova 1 of existing shutters and repainting of the
Buckman Tavern in a color believed to app cxuute the color of the
Tavern in 1775.
Mr. Eddison referred to the research of Larry Whipple, L. H. S,
Historian, which had revealed no evidence of an agreement to keep
�,.., all houses around the Battle Green painted white.
The Town Manager will assist the Historical Society in making
application to the Historic Districs Commissi
CORY
SHEET
Mr. White reviewed Cherry Sheet data and FY'88 -- State Analysis
Sheet, with the Board, noting the complexity of the Cherry Sheet
regarding the reduction of County Charges because of the forthcaning
State takeover of jails, which has been categorized as additional
assistance.
Due to a decrease in Total Assessments, even though there was also
a decrease shown in Total Receipts, Net State Aid for FY89 was shown to
be increased by $4.888. over FY88.
T HM CCNTENT NO:'IFICMON
Mr. White referred to a message to be mai led to all hameowners in
the Tom alerting them to methods for ascertaining whether there is lead
content in their tap water and how to identify lead services which may
be in same homes . He noted that there are no lead pipes within the Tawas
water system. This notification is to be sent before June 19, 1988, as
re by DEQE Regulations.
There was di scussicn on the section of the notice listing certain
conditions which may heighten lead levels in drinking water , It was
agreed that the wording of the sectim might cause homeowners to be
unduly alarmed and should provide information as to where testing of
water can be done, The draft will be revised to include that
information.
LCQE DATA
Mr. White referred to recently received LCQE Data coon g
"Lexington School System Finances, March 19881.
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He noted that the data as presented was samewhat biased in that it
compared 1978 expenditures to 1985 appropriations, The report excluded
Regional Vocational Education as a factor for the School and certain
town expenses such as assessors overlay and county charges.
He had made corrections in those areas as shown on two sheets
distributed to the Board which, he said, showed a slightly different
picture.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Charles
T. Hyde, 97 Maple Street, as a regular member of the Town Celebrations
C.amnittee ■ to fill the unexpired team of Karen M. Gaughan to June 30,
1988.
NWRA ADVISORY BOARD PROPOSAL
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to request the
Town Manager to send letters of support of the MWRA Advisory Board's
"Special Report to the Mas sachusetts Wat R esource Authority" and
letters in support of House Bill 2741 concerning funding of the MWRA
Advisory Board, to our Legislators Senator Kraus and Representative
Doran,
VAPRAW ARTICLE REVIEW
The Board reviewed Selectmen's assignments and positions on Warrant
Articles in preparation of the TMMA Information Meeting on March 16.
In addition to positions of support agreed upon, the following
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views were stated:
Article 13 - Unemployment Caq nsation Fund - to be discussed
further
Article 14 - Conservation Fund - additional moneys may be needed
for proposed purchase of the Railroad spur
Article 17 - Adams Street drainage =' provement - to be indefinitely
postponed
Article 18 - Marrett Road sidewalk - will be attempted in -house
Article 19 - Sewer - to be indefinitely postponed
Article 22 - Street Acceptances - Philip Road betterment to be
established
Article 35 - Traffic signal, Waltham Street - will not be supported
Article 35 - Pine Meadows -- Mr. Dailey will present the consensus
of the Board that the price will make purchase
prohibitive
Article 45 - Residential Improvement Exemption -- will not support
Article 49 - Historic Districts -- more information needed before a
position is taken
Article 53 - General by -Law. Dogs, - thought not to be enforceable
beyond Leash Law
Article 56 - Study, Munroe School -- position not taken
COMMENDATI -- TaWN CLEM, ON WC]RKERS
Board hers agreed that a letter of caunandation for outstanding
work on March 7 and 8 Election Days be sent to the Tom Clerk, her "Wo
staff, Registrars of Voters and all Election Workers.
Mr, Cohen pointed out the need to recruit more Election Workers.
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P• Selectmen's Meeting -3- March 14, 1988
CONSENT AGENDA
kZA5.ANO
Upon motion duly made arxd seconded, it was voted to approve the
request of the Lexington Lodge of Elks, 959 Waltham Street, for
permission to hold weekly Beano Games on Thursday evenings, rather than
on Tuesdays as stated on the Elks Beano License,
SIDEWALK CONSTRUC'T'ION
Upon motion duly made and seconded,, it was voted to execute
Contract #88-4,, Sidewalk Construct ion , in the amount of $ 8 8 ■ 6 9 2.3 0 ,
awarded by the Board of Selectmen on February 29, 19880
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at
10 :52 p.m.
A true record, Attest;
Marion H. Snow
t Executive Clerk
5.
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R
S S MEETI
March 21, 1988
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday,
March 31, 1988, in the Selectmen's Meeting Roam, Town office Building,
at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Eddison, Mr. Dailey, Mrs. Smith, Mr. McSweeney;
Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Mrs. Snow,, Executive
Clerk, were present.
NUCLEAR TEST BAN
Mr. Eddison. on behalf of the Board, signed letters to Congressman
Markey, Senator Kennedy, Senator Kerry and President Reagan requesting
that they vote for a nuclear test ban and that the President move to
negotiate a camprehensive test ban with the Soviet Union, as directed by
citizens of the Town in a referendum on March 7, 19880
SESSION
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5 - 0 by roll call
vote,, Mr. Eddison, Mr,, Dailey, Mrs. Smith ■ Mr. McSweeney, to go into
Executive Session for discussion of 1 and negotiations, with the intent
to resume open session.
Open session was resumed at 7:55 p.m.
DF LO=, HASKINS , S =T.S , AUDITORS
Mr, White referred to the "Auditors' Report on Internal Accounting
Controls and other Matters " distributed to the Board with a Management
Report by Deloitte. Haskins & Sells dated November 5, 1987, and a Staff
Response prepared by Mr, Ryan, Ccaptroller, dated March 21, 1988.
Mark Johnson and Jack Ferguson. Auditors,, reviewed the Auditors
Management REport, with respect to internal accounting controls in
Treasury and collection; revenues and receipts; appropriations and
expenditures; financial reporting; and other matters and submitted
carrments and ireccavendations concerning internal control, administrative
and operating matters. Camnents and reccmmendaticns, based on
observation in these categories were given.
Fixed Assets Accounts As is the practice in most Massachusetts
municipalities, the Town does not maintain a general fixed assets
account group as required by generally accepted accounting principles.
The Town will at to inventory its fixed assets over the next year
or so.
Pension Plan account The Town accounts for its retirement
system M a "pay as you go" method whereby retirement payments are
funded as incurred. The Auditors r eCCA111 ed that the Town have
actuarial valuation performed on a biennial basis and develop a plan
for funding future liabilities.
Schedule -- Federal Financial Assistance This report is required by
the Standards for Audit of Goverrmlental organization, Programs,
Activities and Functions,, issued by the U . S , General Accounting Office,
the Single Audit Act of 1984 and the provisions of oMB Circular A -128,
Audits of State and Local Governments,
This was followed by a period of questions f ran the Board on
various aspects of the report and the items listed by the Auditors as in
need of attention.
s
All agreed that the Management Report and Staff Response was well
prepared, and was clear, concise and informative. Mr. Eddison thanked
the Auditors and the Comptroller for their pre sentat ion .
APPROPRIATION CUW+s 7=
Michael O'Sullivan, Chairman of the Appropriation Camnittee, met
with the Board for clarification and discussion on positions on
financial articles.
Mr. O'Sullivan referred to expense budgets for Town goverromt,
Police, Fire and Public Works; Human Services requests; and Articles 29,
Property Valuation; Article 33, Parking Study; and Article 34, Center
Plan. He reported that his Cammittee concurs with the Selectmen
regarding the proposed increase of funds to RePlace.
The Cammittee also supported Article 29, but had questions about
the Parking Study and the Des ign Guidelines for the Center ' They felt
that other areas and other parking provisions in Town may also be worthy
of study. The Camrattee is generally disposed toward reconstruction of
the tennis courts and supportive of the renovation of the Library.
Regarding the School Budget, the camnittee had had no discussion of
the FY proposals. Mr. O'Sullivan referred to a 1986 memo from him on
the subject of the Personnel Advisory 's recatimendation for
coordination in health care costs, fringe benef its ■ productivity, f air
and equitable opportunities, staff development and growth. He pointed
out the impact of the School Camtittee' s current budget requests on
then financial areas in Town ..�
o government.
g
He referred to the 1988 Report of the Appropri at ion Committee which
gives facts on Lexington's Historical Financial Perspective;
Caripar ability Historical Financial Perspective and Fiscal Policy
Codification. He said he hoped the report helps to rejuvenate efforts
to enlighten Town Meeting as to what is going on here and in other
towns. A sheet showing data of ranking of towns in tax levy changes and
levy per capita from FY81 to FY87 was distributed.
Target reductions for the FY89 budget of $840.00 were projectedo, if
there is no agreement reached between the Selectmen and School Cannittee
on its budget proposal and the scenario reccmmemded reviewed. The
Camnittee advised against going into Free Cash to resolve the problem.
The Can ittee had supported the 1985 proposal to purchase Pine
Meadows and saw value in keeping it as open space. There was a
suggestion that sale of the Landfill area for devel be considered ■
which could aid in the School Budget and Pine Meadows dilemmas.
Mr. Eddison said he felt that the Selectmen and the Finance
Camnittees were not all that far apart in views on financial articles
and in support of the Town Manager's budget. Regarding the proposal for
Design Guidelines for the Center, he felt the Camnittee should withhold
judgement pending presentation of all the background and facts. He felt
it was a modest cost for real benefits which would be provided.
Regarding a broader scope for the study to include other areas, Mr.
Eddison pointed out that it would cost even more and saw the need to
first test what can be done with the Center. Later, if the effort is
successful, it could be extended to other parts of town.
Also discussed was possible use of free cash and proposed cuts to
acc to a School budget increased by 9 1/2 %, if that is not adjusted
downward.
Selectmen's Meeting - 3-- March 21, 1988
Mr. Eddiscn pointed out that time is needed for settlement of the
landfill before any development on it can be considered.
Mrs. Smith referred to the Ccnmittee's reservations about the
Parking Study and said that previous studies done had been only to
ascertain numbers of spaces whereas this would be a utilization study
not done before. She agreed that coordination of Town / Schoo 1 operations
would be of great benefit .
Regarding the information of needed cuts to accommodate the present
School budget request, she felt that it was a valuable service to alert
Town Meeting as to the scope of what can happen if there is no
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Mrs. Smith noted that proposal of the Waste Management Task Force
for locating a waste transfer station on the landfill and felt that the
Land would be better used for DPW and other Town uses, than to offer it
for development.
Mr. O'Sullivan was thanked for his informative presentation and fcr
the opportunity to hear the views of the Appropriation Committee,
CAPITAL MDITURES COMMITTEE
Richard Perry and Paul Hamburger of the Capital Expenditures
Catmittee attended for a rundown on the views of their Committee on
Financial Articles, Mr. Perry reported that the Committee was pretty
much in agreement with the Manager's proposed budget, subject to
knowledge of the impact of the School budget.
He said he was apprehensive about Mr. O'Sullivan's strategy
regarding the School budget, especially with respect to funding of
maintenance of infrastructure. Mr. Hamburger saw delays in this area as
resulting in future capital outlay.
The Committee saw a great potential for saving in efforts to
combine School and Town maintenance.
AUTHORITY TO ACCEPT STATE GRANTS
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to authorize the
Town Manager to act on beha 1 f of the Town of Lexington as its agent in
perf g any and all other actions necessary to secure for the town
such grants and grant payments for the design and construction of sewage
treatment facilities as may be made available to the town and under this
authoriz ation to accept a State Grant in the amount of $21,825. for
Design of Connections to the Millbrook Valley Relief Sewer,
Collection System Improvements and Sewer System Rehabilitation.
WRK UNDER. N. PLYING STATION
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve Extra
Work order #1, Contract #87-5 with DER, Incorporation in the amount of
$27,000, for rebuilding of two gpm PUMPS.
Polk
VERSAILLES RESTAURANT,, OUTS IDE DINING
Upon nation duly made and seconded. it was voted to approve renewal
of the request of Versailles Restaurant for a sidewalk cafe, subject to
preconditions established by the Town Manager.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve as
presented the minutes of the Selectmen's Meeting on February 8, 1988.
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It was also voted, with Mrs. Smith abstaining because of her
absence at that meeting, to approve the minutes of February 22, 1988.
REAPPOINTMENTS
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to reappoint Paul
E. Furdon, Chief of Police, as Keeper of the Lockup, for a term to
expire on March 31, 1989.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Palmer
& Dodge,, One Beacon Street,, Boston,, as Lexington Town Counsel,, for a
term to expire on March 31, 19 8 9 .
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to reappoint
Mary C . Abegg, 261 Waltham Street, as a Registrar of Voters,,
representing the Democratic Party, for a term of office to expire on
March 31, 1991.
DCNATION, TRAFFIC IMP
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept with
thanks the donation of the Chamber of Canmerce Traffic Improvement
Cam ittee in the amount of $2,455,10 to the North Lexington Traffic
Improvements Account.
APRIL MEETING SCHEDULE
It was agreed that Selectmen's Meetings will be scheduled for each
Monday and Wednesday in April, with the exception of the week of
Patriots Day. The meetings will camnence at 7:00 p.m.
CONSENT AGENDA
TRAFFIC ITEM
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to refer to the
Traffic Safety Advisory Carmittee the request of Ginette Brillor- Cahill
12 Winthrop Rd., for crosswalk and traffic signal installation on
Winthrop Road, to provide safe crossing to the School Bus stop.
ONE DAY LIQUOR LICENSE
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
application of "Parents in Precision Skating" for one Day Liauor License
on Saturday. March 26, 1988, for a Fifties Party at the Hayden Center,
Lincoln Street.
REROOFING CONURACT, MUNROE SCHOOL
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to execute
Contract #88 -13, in the amount of $31,899.00, awarded at the Selectmen's
Meeting on March 7,, 19880
BC ND, TAX COLLBCTOR
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve renewal
of a Mass. Bay Insurance Carpany Local Officials Bond in the amount of
$180,000.00 for James R. Dane, Tax Collector.
TION OF ARTS COUNSEL
I
MONO
Mr. Eddison noted the n n? ticn of the Lexington Arts Counsel by
the Mass . Arts Lottery Council "for r ' t
it and praise for exemplary
service to its c ammrnin i ty"
Selectmen's Meeting -5- March 21, 1988
He referred to other notable efforts and contributions to the Town
by this group under the leadership of Kerry Brandin and suggested that a
letter of congratulations and camnendations by written to the Counsel.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted that the Ch airman
send a letter of appreciation to the Lexington Counsel for the Arts.
PROPOSED ARTICLE 4 AMMDMENTS,, DOMITZ
There was discussion of amendments proposed by Rcbert Dcmnitz under
Article 4, to use the Parking Meter Fund to support three public works
accounts at the inflation -- adjusted level, and to add to the funding of
these line items an amount which Mr. Dcrmu*tz believes would make up for
past years when Parking Meter Fund revenues were not used. Mr. Cohen
explained what Parking Meter Fund revenues could be used for. He
pointed out that the Town could not appropriate funds in excess of those
needed for the current year's budget.
IVE SESSION
Upon motion duly made and seconded. it was voted 5 -- 0 by roll call
vote, Mr, Eddison , Mr, Dailey, Mrs, Smith, Mr. McSweeney , to go into
Executive Session for discussion of Land Negotiation and Collective
Bargai=g, with no intent to resume open session.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at
10:54 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Marlon H. Snow
Executive Clerk
Ooft
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SEUCITM S MEETING
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March 2$ 1988
4
A regular meeting of the Boa of Selectmen was held on Monday,
March 28 19 � � �
S 8 , in the Selectmen's Meeting Roam. Town Office Btmlding,
at 7:00 p.m. Chairman Eddison, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Dailey, Mrs. Smith,
Mr., McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen. Town Counse Mrs,
Snow. Executive Clerk were present.
OF TREES. PROSPECT HILL ROAD
err ■i i.�i.miri�r. rimer •r.ni.i.i� ^rrq�
The Board reviewed the report of the Tree Warden on the Public
Hearing on March 15. on the proposal to remove twelve trees at 72
Prospect Hill Road, necessary in order to construct a sidewalk and stone
wall. Francis Fields, Town Engineer and Peter Chalpin, Asst, Town
Engineeer were present.
Mr. Chalpin referred to three of the twelve trees on the p
of Hamid Keramaty, and the request of Mr. Keramaty that these trees be
retained. Mr. Mazerall, Tree Warden, had felt that two of these trees
would probably suffer root damage f ram the excavation for a retai
wall, but would do his best to save them if so directed. After the
excavation he would inspect the trees for damage and if, in his
opinion, they would represent a hazard in time to came, would remove
them,
�■•• Mr. Keramaty agreed with this procedure and asked if a third tree,
could be included. Mr. Chalpin reported that the tree has Dutch Elm
disease., and should cue down, It would be replaced by a shrub. Mr,
Keramaty asked that the Elm tree be left s g and said he would be
responsible for its removal if it eventually dies. Mrs. Smith suggested
that the tree be treated by injections and cutting back.
R Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
removal of nine of the trees on the property of Hamid Keramaty and Cathy
Collins, 72 Prospect Hill Road. Two oak trees will be left in place
until after the excavation for the construction of a retaining wall. If
it appears that these trees have suffered extensive root damage and will
not survive, they will be removed at the discretion of the Tree Warden.
Mr. Keramaty will assume responsibility for the treatment and. if
necessary, the disposition of an oak tree on his property.
Mr. Chalpin said that only the elm tree would be replaced by
shrubbery in response to Mr. Keramaty's request for additional shrubs.
Mr. Marshall advised that this be kept open if the property looks too
barren after the tree removal .
Mr. Keramaty said he had planned to build a fence for safety to his
children since he would be losing the use of three feet of his front
pro and felt that the Town should award him damages. Mr. White
noted that Mr. Keramaty has three years in which to appeal the Town's
decision that no damages are warranted.
EXTRA W01RK OMER ■ E ROOFING
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve Extra
Work order #1, Contract 88 -13 with Professional Roofing, in the amount
of $4.000.00, with a revised contract amount of $35,899.00.
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MMOTES
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the Now
minutes of the Selectmen's Meeting on February 29, 1988, as presented.
LODGING HOUSE LICENSES BENTLEY COLLEGE
The Board reviewed the applications of Bentley College to allow use
of three buildings on the grounds of Middlesex County Hospital as school
dormitories. The favorable recarmendations of the Building
Ca - issioner, Fire Chief and Health Director, were noted. The Health
Director, George Smith, had advised that Board of Health permits and
approvals would be needed if cooking is to be conducted in the common
kitchens in each building and that the issue of cooking in the roans be
addressed.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the
applications of Bentley College for Lodging House Licenses for three
Middlesex County Hospital buildings on Walnut Street: Wellington House.
Wellington Lodge and Wellington Cottage, to be used as dormitories.
Approval of the licenses is subject to compliance with all Fire
Departm and Board of Health regulations.
ABATEMENT OF SEWER CHARGES
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve
abatement of Sewer Charges at 3 Chadbourne Road in the amount of
$177.71, for property not connected to Town Sewer,
BEDFORD S TREET PROJDL'r
Mr. Eddi son r rted on his anal. Mr. White's meeting with State DPW "'�
officials for discussion of the concept proposed by the State of
implementing only half of the project at this time and the Town's
concerns with that proposal. The State will review a plan submitted for
a 5 --lane width of Bedford Street ■ t`ao lanes each direction and a turning
lane, but the Chairman said he had no sense that they would look upon it
favorable. The State's reaction to proposal for a traffic light on
Hartwe Avenue at Maguire Road was not encouraging.
Mr. White felt that the 1984 approved plan for an 8 -lane highway
and no traffic light at Eldred Street would be the only one which would
be allowed.
TOM V=ING WARRANT ARTICLES
Mr. Eddison outlined procedures expected to be followed at the
o g session of Town Meeting that evening.
Regarding Fred Rosenberg i proposal that there be an itemized list
of all DPW line items, the S electmen will take a position as they did
last year that, in the interest of flexibility for the DPW and the
Manager, the budget request will be presented in a lump sum and an
itemized listing of disposition of the funds be provided at a later
time.
With reference to the budget request of Cary Library, it was agreed
that certain items listed in Article 30 as capital requests would more
appropriately be identified as expense items for maintenance.
,-5-3
selectmen ' s Meeting
- 30- March 28, 1988
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to propose
modification of the Library Capital request under Article 30 by a
reduction of $25,000 and amendment of its expense budget request under
Article 4 by the addition of $25,000.
It was thought that this arrangement v7culd stand the Town in good
stead with respect to future consolidation of maintenance services among
Town departments .
it •i : ■�!
The Chairman informed, the Board of information received from the
School CaYmittee Chairman that the School Camnittee has agreed that an
increase of 8.5% in its FY89 budget would be acceptable.
Mr. Eddison felt that in the light of issues at stake, agreement by
the Selectmen to this canpr se was the wisest course, It was the
sense of the Board that support for the 8.5% increase should be given.
F. G'C] = 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 land
negotiation and litigation, with no intent to resume open session.
p.m.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was
voted to adjourn at 7:55
Marion H. now
Executive Clerk
A true record, Attest:
a
f
l .'
S F't_B "S fV=ING
� 9
March 30 1988
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Wednesday,
� g
March 30, 1988 ■ in the Selectmen's Meeting Rocco ■ Town Office Budding,
at 7:00 p.m. Mr. ison, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Dai ley Mrs. Smith, Mr.
McSweeney; M Whit Town Manager Mr. Cohen,, Town Counsel; Mrs . S now. .
Executive Clerk, were present.
T. S , A. C . REPORTS . TRAFFIC ITEMS
Peter Chalpin, Chairman of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee,
was present for discussion of his Committee ' s recamiendations on traffic
related requests received by the Selectmen.
LOWEIL SIR=, TASSONE
The Board reviewed the request of Sheila Busa- Tassone for attention
to her concerns about pedestrian safety on Lowell Street due to parked
cars on the sidewalk area.
Mr. Chalpin reported that the Police Departmen will continue
enforcement to ' ze these parking violations.
Upon motion, duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the
recommendations of the Traffic Safety Advisory Canmittee that the Mass.
DPW be requested to evaluate sidewalks and berms in the East Lexington
portion of Lowell Street and to repair or replace each as necessary.
The Board also voted that Mrs. Tassone is to be advised to petition
the Board of Selectmen for construction of sidewalk on Bartlett Avenue ,
for consideration in the FY90 Budget Process. The lack of sidewalk
there had been another are of Mrs. Tassone's concern.
CAUTION CH 1 D , KITES END, HEFEKID
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to request
replacement by the DPW of a missing "Caution Children" sign on Conco
Avenue near the Mites End Building, as requested by J. Richard Herbold.
H.PWE''I T A /MAGUIRE ROAD, EIDSON
In review of the issues of concern submitted by Gary Eidson
regarding traffic safety on Hartwell Avenue and Maguire Road., the
Committee had pointed out that the physical changes to the road that
would be necessary for improvement in the existing hazardous conditions
are a ccoponent of the Bedford Street area plans now being considered by
the State DPW, The Committee felt that until such time as the plans are
approved and inplemented the prevailing conditions would continue to be
a problem.
Mr. Eidson expressed his appreciation at the Town's responsiveness
to the traffic problems he faces daily and noted lack of signage and
lane delineation on Hartwell Avenue, which he considers a "speedtrack ".
He suggested painting of lines to indicate the presence of the Maguire
Road intersection.
Mr. Eddison pointed out the need for State approval of such
measures but acknowledged the need for correction of the problems as
soon as possible.
Mr. Marshall proposed a separate study of the Hartwell
Avenue /Maguire Road area so that it is looked at independently.
OEM 2-
He noted the future impact of the Katandin woods development on traffic MW
flow and volume.
Mr. Chalpin referred to an in -place study in 1981 which estimated
cost of construction at that time of $2.,500,,000,, now probably
accelerated to $5 ■ 000,000.
Mr. Eidson requested interim measures such as line painting, signs,
posting of speed limit and patrolling. Mr. Chalpin noted that the road
width is inadequate for four lanes and that the 40 -mph speed limit is
enforced
Motion was made and seconded to accept the recannendations of the
Traffic Safety Advisory Ccrrmittee as stated but to request the Town
Manager to explore the possibilities of separating the Hartwell Avenue
project fran the Bedford Street plans and funding by the Town of
improvements to Hartwell Avenue. The Manager was also asked to seek
less expensive options for remedying the problems there.
The motion having been made and seconded, carried.
CEDAR STREET GUARDRAIL, GE DART
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the
recommendations of the Traffic Safety Advisory Caanmittee to rave a
guard rail installed at the property of Steven Geldart 147 Cedar
Street, as requested by Mr. Geldart,
BRIDGES IC, GAMES
The Board reviewed the petition of Richard Games and other area •.
residents requesting relief frc$n speeding commuter traffic on Bridge
Street and the Traffic Canimittee's recommendations on resolution of the
problem. ' . *
The Committee had explored a number of approaches, including eight
suggestions listed on the petition. A radar speed study performed twice
in February showed the 85th percentile speed to be 39 mph which is
unacceptable since the speed law allows 30 mph.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the
recamiendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee that Bridge
Street be made one -way from Payson Street to Spring Street for
a six -month trial period. At the completion of the trial period., the
Traffic C'nmittee will assess positive and negative inpacts of the test.
The Board also voted that the Mass. DPW be requested to update and
modernize the Marrett Road/Waltham Street intersection signal system.
,PLEASANT /T 71MN FARM PARKING
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the
recarinendations of the Traffic Safety Advisory C crn mittee for a "No
parking" regulation on the west side of Pleasant Street, fran Follen
Road to Fern Street. as recommended by Police Chief Paul FUrdon,
ROOK ROAD, SORENSEN
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the
recammendation of the Traffic Safety Advisory C cnud ttee to extend the
existing "No Parking" regulation on the south side of Vinebrook Road to
#9 Vinebrook and to request the DPW to replace all missing "No Parking"
signs.
?� Selectmen' Meeting
4-3-
March 30, 1988
PINE MEADOWS CCMNT=
Mr. Eddiscn noted a request from the Conservation Cammission that a
cammittee be established to act in advisory capacity on Pine Meadows.
The Caimittee' s Charge would be to prepare one or more alternative plans
for use of the site, should the Town choose to exercise its options
under Chapter 61B. The Camission had suggested that the makeup of the
camittee be camparable to the Pine Meadows C'.arrmittee of three years ago
and that it be composed of members of the current ad hoc Pine Meadow
group plus representation fram the neighborhood and others with strong
contributions to make.
The Cctinittee will be appointed at the Board's April 11th meeting.
The Cha irman asked members for suggestion as to candidates for
consideration.
FY 89 RESURFACING P 90 FOPYS
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to execute Chapter
90 Project Request Forms and Chapter 90 initial Advisory Reports for the
FY89 Resurfacing Program to include projects on various streets
throughout the Town.
E=IrIVE 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.
p.m.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 7:57
A true record, Attest
Marian H. Snow
Executive Clerk