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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1988-11-BOS-min q(gC Psis SELECTMEN'S MEETING November 7 , 1988 A regular meeting of the Board of Seleceawas held on Monday, November 7, 1988, in the Selectmen' s Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Eddison, Mr. Dailey, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel ; Ms. Padway, Asst. to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. PUBLIC HEARING, ROSTON EDISON, HILL STREET Mrs. Smith opened a Public Hearing on the petition of Boston Edison Company for the purpose of a grant of location for a pole top connection and conduit in Hill Street. Edward Chisholm, representing the Edison Company, explained that the work is necessary to provide electrical service to a new garage on the premises of the Lexington Golf Club. Recommendation in favor of granting the petition from the Director of Public Works, was read by the Chairman. There being no further statements in favor or in opposition, Mrs. Smith declared the hearing closed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition, plan and orders of Boston Edison Company for the purpose of a grant of location for a pole top connection and conduit in Hill Street, Lexington, to provide additional service to #55 Hill Street: about 3 feet of conduit, northerly approximately 880 ft. west of Sargent Street. p.m PUBLIC HEARING, BOSTON EDISON, NORTH STREET Mrs. Smith opened a Public Hearing on the petitioh of Boston Edison Company for the purpose of a grant of location for a pole top connection and conduit in North Street. Mr. Chisholm of the Edison Company explained that the work is necessary to provide electric service to three lots located off North Street. Recommendations if favor of granting the petition from the Director of Public Works were read by the Chairman. There being no further statements in favor or in opposition, Mrs. Smith declared the hearing closed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition, plan and orders of Boston Edison Company for the purpose of a grant of location for a pole top connection and conduit in North Street to provide service to three lots off North Street: approximately 20 feet of conduit to be installed 594 ft. southwest of the Burlington Town Line. PUBLIC HEARING, BOSTON EDISON, SPRING STREET Mrs. Smith opened a Public Hearing on the petition of Boston Edison Company for the purpose of a grant of location for a pole top connection and conduit in Spring Street. Mr. Chisholm of the Edison Company explained that the work is necessary to provide electric service to #83 Spring Street. oms Recommendations in favor of granting the petition from the Director of Public Works were read by the Chairman. There being no further comments in favor or in opposition, Mrs. Smith declared the hearing closed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition, plan and orders of the Roston Edison Company for the purpose ornit of a grant of location for a pole top connection and conduit in Spring Street: about 9 feet of conduit, northwesterly approximately 535 feet north of Shade Street. PUBLIC HEARING, POSTON EDISON, CARRIAGE nRIVE Mrs . Smith opened a Public Hearing on the petition of Roston Edison Company for the purpose of a grant of location for a pole top connection and conduit in Carriage Drive. Mr. Chisholm of the Edison Company explained that the work is necessary to provide electric service to a new development off Carriage Drive. Recommendations in favor of granting the petition from the Director of Public Works were read by the Chairman. There being no further comments in favor or in opposition, Mrs. Smith declared the hearing closed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition, plan and orders of the Boston Edison Company for the purpose of a grant of location for a pole top connection and conduit in Carriage Drive: about 10 feet of conduit, approximately 1250 feet southwest of Grove Street. PUBLIC HEARING, BOSTON EDISON, WINTER STREET Mrs. Smith opened a Public Hearing on the petition of Boston Edison Company for the purpose of a grant of location for a pole top connection and conduit in Winter Street. Mr. Chisholm of the Ed-rson Company explained that the work is necessary to provide electric service to a new development known as Carriage Drive, located off Winter Street. Recommendation in favor of granting the petition from the Director of Public Works were read by the Chairman. There being no further comments in favor or in opposition, Mrs. Smith declared the hearing closed. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition, plan and orders of the Boston Edison Company for the purpose of a grant of location for a pole top connection and conduit in Winter Street, southerly from Carriage Drive, and running westerly a distance of about 80 feet. APPOINTMENTS, HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint Beth S. Klarmann, 6 Hampton Road and Richard H. Dougherty, 4 Glen Road, as members of the Human Services Committee for terms of office to expire on September 30, 1991. 1987 ANNUAL AWARD, TOWN REPORT Mrs. Smith noted information from the Mass. Municipal Association that Lexington's 1987 Town Report had won second place in its category. Congratulations to Bob Morrison and his committee will be extended by the Board. PAUL MAZERALL RETIREMENT moo The retirement of Paul Mazerall , Director of Parks , after 39 years of service to the Town was noted. Mrs. Smith reported on a farewell coffee party held on the precedino Friday. It was agreed that a vote of thanks to Paul from the Board would be in order. / (,( ‘' son Selectmen 's Meeting November ", 1988 PTNE MEADOWS BOND ISSUE Mr. White reported that the 10 million, 180 day short-term bond anticipation notes for the purchase of Pine Meadows will be due on March 2, 1989. It had been advised by John Ryan and by Clark Rowell , Financial Advisor from the Shawmut Bank, that the permanent debt he issued before the end of the calendar year to allow the Town to offset the borrowing costs of the bond anticipation note by investing the proceeds o the debt issue until the due date of the short term borrowing (with possible revenues of $150,000) and by allowing the Town the opportunity for two bond sales in January, 1989. Prepared for the Board's review by Mr. Rowell was a proposed financing schedule along with debt service schedules for 10, 15, and 20 years . Mr. White noted that the Board must come to a decision on the length of the debt service schedule that evening. Mr. Ryan and Mr. Rowell were present for explanation of the financial impacts of the differine schedules and to outline benefits available by financing now. Mr. Ryan and Mr. Rowell had both recommended bonding on a ten year basis . A data sheet showing comparisons among the three options was distributed and reviewed Mr. White concurred with the recommendation for the ten year debt service noting the benefits of an aggressive posture regarding debt so as not to interfere with expected future debt which it seems likely will he faced. i .e. maintenance of Infrastructure and other unexpected pow large expenditures. He felt that the shorter term payback could help to stabilize the tax rate so that increases won't be as high in future 'years. Mr. Eddison's position was in favor of a 15-year bonding term. He noted the probability that a land bank tax would soon be approved which would allow the Town funds for land purchases and affordable housing. He also felt that it would be appropriate for future residents of the Town to share in the cost of the land and did not concur with the certainty that maintenance of infrastructure would represent major expenditures in the next few years. Mr. Marshall also supported longer-term bonding. He felt it important to lessen the financial impact in the early years , and to share the purchase costs , as well as the benefits of Town ownership with future townspeople. Mrs. Smith said that although she is sensitive to keeping costs down, she was concerned with the effect of long-term bonding on the Town ' s triple A rating and favored the 10-year period. She noted that 10 years had been the time frame mentioned at the time of the town election on override and was not comfortable with changing it. Mr. Dailey agreed with Mrs. Smith's view. He felt it would be a mistake, with potential bonding obligations in coming years, to add to the debt service by incurring even more interest costs, as would be the case with 15 or 20 year bonding. Mr. McSweeney was also in favor of the 10-year bonding, adding that it would bother him greatly to go to a total of $18 - $20 million for the purchase. Motion was made to authorize the issuance of $10,000,000. in bonds as soon as possible, to be repaid over a ten-year period, with the remaining financing to be done in 1989. Mr. Marshall moved to amend the motion by changing the bonding period to 15 years and the amended motion was seconded. -4- The vote on the amended motion was 3 - 2 , with Mrs . Smith , Mr. Dailey and Mr. McSweeney, voting in the negative. The amended motor did not carry. mom The main motion, having been made and seconded, was voted unanimously to authorize the issuance of $10,000,000 in bonds to be repaid over a ten year period. CONSENT AGENDA COMMITMENTS APPROVED Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the commitment of the following charges: Street Opening Permit fees in the amount of $150.00; Cycle 9 Meter Installation and Retroactive charges , 552,705.93; Cycle 9 Water Rills, $58,264.69. COMPENSATING BALANCE CONTRACT Mr. White noted that State law now allows towns to enter compensating balance agreements for banking services . He listed banks which had responded to the bids solicited by the Town for these services and recommended that Shawmut/Prlington Trus he awarded a one year contract for fiscal year 1989. The recommendations of the Manager and the Comptroller on this award were based on cost, retraining and implementation considerations encountered in changing from the Town's current association with Shawmut/Arlington. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve an Agreement for the Provision of Ranking Services between Shawmut Bank, N.A. and the Town of Lexington, for a term of twelve months starting on July 1 , 1988, and terminating on June 30, 1989. ACTING TOWN MANAGER Mr. White acknowledged with appreciation Ms. Padway' s fine performance as Acting Town Manager in his absence during the past two weeks . Mrs. Smith extended the compliments of the Board on a iob well done. EXECUTIVE SESSION Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5 - 0 by roll call vote, Mrs. Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Eddison, Mr. Dailey, Mr. McSweeney, to go into Executive Session for discussion of possible litigation, with no intent to resume open session. Mr. Marshall left the meeting at this time. Upon motion duly made and seconded , it was voted to adjourn at 9:57p.m. A true record, Attest: a lo now Executive Clerk owe 1 I 1;' roe SELECTMEN'S MEETING November 14, 1988 f A regular meeting of the Board of Selecal was held on Monday, November 14, 1988, in the Selectmen' s Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Eddison, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel ; Ms . Padway, Asst. to the Town manager; Mrs. Deshler, Principal Clerk, were present. Mr. Palley joined the meeting shortly. GRACE CHAPEL The reports received from the Planning Board, the D.A.C. and the L.C.C. pertaining to the Grace Chapel proposal for a youth center on Forest Street were reviewed by the Chairman. The Chairman said that she would oppose the proposal for granting of a special permit for Grace Chapel as presented. The issue of height, scale, parking and increased traffic were not adequately addressed by the new plans submitted by Grace Chapel . Adequate screening and sufficient set back requirements were also serious concerns of the various committees and the Board. Specific legal aspects of interpretation of Mass. statutes as referred to in a letter from resident Peter D. Enrich, were discussed at this time. These legal issues will be addressed by Town Counsel and the Board of Appeals . rm. Mr. Eddison endorsed the position of the Chairman and the advisory boards as to the denial of the special permit request. Mr. Marshall stated that he could not support the plan as developed due to the severe traffic impact and the inappropriate size of the structure and agreed that this was a decision of the Board of Appeals to make. A motion was made and seconded to follow the recommendations of the Selectmen's advisory committees L.C.C. and D.A.C. to recommend against approval of the Grace Chapel proposal in its present form due to scale and impact on the Center parking. The motion was carried unanimously. MINUTES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5 - 0 to approve as presented, the minutes of the Selectmen' s Meeting on September 26, 198R. CONSENT AGENDA TRAFFIC ITEM, S. LEXINGTON CIVIC ASSOC./ CONCORD AVENUE Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to refer the request of S. Lexington, Civic Association, Joy Buchfirer, President, regarding concerns in the Concord Avenue area, to the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for review and recommendations. WATER/SEWER ABATEMENTS onft Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve abatement of Sewer Charges for 11 Locust Street in the amount of $22.00. //' BUDGET PROCESS The Town Manager reported on the progress of the budget process for FY90. As this will be a difficult budget year, all Dept. Heads have been given basic directions to define and describe any increases in their budgets and to maintain existing level of services . nn November 30 the Department heads will submit their budget proposals to the Town Manager' s office. The overview dates of theses budgets are scheduled to take place between Jan. 9 - Oan. 30, 1q89, which are a month earlier in sequence than FY89. This schedule will allow for more time for the discussion of concerns. Mrs. Smith asked i Dr. rieiger and Rick White were working together on the school Budget. She referred to Michael O'Sullivan's request that the Appropriation Committee be involved early in the process. 1:' ch White stated that he will provide a schedule to that committee as early as possible. It was hoped that the School Committee would he able to proceed with the same rate of speed as the other departments. ALARM CONNECTTOMS/REGULATIONS Police Chief Furden repdrted that a few hundred homes are connected to the alarm monitoring equipment located in the police station. These small alarm systems were developed prior to the sophisticated private security systems that are now available. Chief Furdon stated that the Police Dept. should answer alarms not monitor the alarm board as technology is better now and monitoring companies can screen out false burglar alarms. Fire Chief Bergeron referred to the 20 connections to the Fire Dept. With so few houses connection to the Fire Dept. system he felt that the Fire Dept. should be out of the dialer service business in 6 months time. Mr. Eddison asked how much time lag for professional service response is now available. Chief Furdon said that the proposal would include a special line so that the call would be able to get off the emergency line quickly. Mr. White responded that once the alarm is accidently triggered the resident has a few seconds before the audio alarm goes off which then is transmitted to the company who then calls the resident who must give a code # to defuse the response. If no one answers the call or the wrong code # is given an immediate notification is made to the Police Dept. for follow through. Mr. Eddison stated that 15 minutes for the alarm to go off is too long and that 10 minutes should he the maximum time. Chief Furdon said that the alarms are now programmed for 15 minutes. Mr. McSweeney asked whether the private alarm systems are monitored 24 hours a day by all vendors and was told yes by Chief Furdon. Upon motion duly made and seconded it was voted to: Amend the rules and regulations on Burglar and Fire Alarms found under Section 28 of Article 25, of the General By-Laws of the Town of Lexington by deleting rules numbered 1 through 6 inclusive and inserting in place thereof the following: mai Selectmen's Meeting _3_ November 14, 1988 Mow 1. Any homeowner, renter, lessee, or other resident, and any renter, lessee, or owner of business or other establishment or building, other than a municipal building, having a burglar or hold-up alarm or a medical alarm or a fire alarm other than a box alarm connected with lines into or under the control of the Police Department or the Fire Department, shall arrange to have said alarm monitored at a privately owned alarm monitoring station of choice. A special line or lines may be designated by the Department Head or a designee for alarm companies to notify Police and Fire Departments of alarm activations. This regulation will not effect or prevent installation and maintenance of the Municipal Fire Alarm Box System. 2. Any homeowner, renter, lessee, or other resident, and any renter, lessee, or owner of business or other establishment, or building, other than a municipal building, having a burglar or hold-up alarm which transmits an audible signal shall have said alarm programmed to emit a signal not to exceed fifteen (15) minutes. Said alarm shall be programmed to sound or cycle not more than twice during any single activation. 3. The Department Head may suspend response to any alarm monitored by an alarm monitoring station, or to any alarm which sounds an audible signal, where the Department Head or a designee shall determine that an undue number of false pm* alarms have occurred. The Department Head or a designee may suspend response to any alarm activation when it has been determined by the Department Head or a designee that the specifications as outlined in these rules and regula- tions have not been followed. Town authorities will be instructed to explore the possibility of time reduction from 15 minutes to 10 minutes for audible sound alarm. REPRESENTATIVE STEPHEN DORAN Representative Stephen Doran reported to the Board on the status of several Home Rule petitions from the Town that were scheduled to be voted on by the Legislature before the end of the month. He foresaw no problem getting them passed. He also discussed pending fiscal hills in the area of county reform, local aid, state budget and land bank. Lean, hard years were predicted by Pep. Doran. He explained his position with respect to Governor Dukakis ' veto of the distribution of $91 million in lottery funds to cities and towns as being fiscally prudent and responsible for the entire commonwealth even though towns such as Lexington that operate soundly were penalized. Mr. Marshall stated that several areas were of concern to him and other members of the MMA Finance Comm. With respect to the Land Bank bill , the cities in the MMA area have little interest in it because they have run out of space available to preserve. MMA has in its Legislative proposal , broadened the bill to appeal to a larger base without losing the open space component. Mr. Marshall then referred to the $91 million loss to the communities which represented five quarters of lottery money revenues. Pm% He declared that the cities and towns want more control of their destinies and it is imperative that the Cherry Sheet figures continue to become available before town meetings begin. Mr. McSweeney asked what areas , other than the lottery, would affect the final figures not coming out to the advantage of' the towns. Rep. Doran replied that Federal Tax reform resulted in less revenues and combined with the cooling down of the economy, which is still growing but at a much slower rate, and too much spending by the government, will result in serious cutbacks. /67—'5 -4- Mr. Eddiison 's concern about Chapter 90 monies being affected prompted Mr. Doran to respond that that had been tabled. Most cuts will be in the human services and universal health care areas with both the House and the Senate unable to concur at this time. Mr. Dailey asked how to increase the Local Aid amount so that sharing would be to a fair degree and work to the advantage of the town as opposed to a detriment which now occurs . Mr. Doran replied that the formula that now exists does not distribute the revenues fairly and that Lexington is considered a wealthy community. All the cost saving measures that have been instituted here have worked against the well managed community that we have. One of the areas of inequity is in the clean up efforts in Boston Harbor. Although is is a statewide responsibility and was ordered by the court, the communities in the immediate locale are bearing the financial responsibility. In response to references to the MWPA, the Town Manager stated that that agency has become a responsive one and is in the process of working out its previous problems. Mrs. Smith echoed his praise of the MWRA and noted the extensive projects that this agency is responsible for on a statewide basis and that the agency is sincerely trying to bring these projects up to date in a timely and responsible fashion. mr. Eddison related his concerns regarding HATS TT communities and asked what role the Legislature could play in helping to bring the federal governmental agencies to the point of discussion. Mr. Doran stated that he saw his role best used to encourage the Federal agencies and the Air Force to meet with the HATS TI communities. Mrs. Smith congratulated Rep. Doran on an outstanding job in his representation of Lexington. The Selectmen unanimously agreed. DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES BOOKLET The Town Manager referred to the "Development Guidelines" booklet that had been prepared to help guide developers through the maze of approval processes needed. There will be more staff involvement in the initial meetings so that the Sketch Plans will be presented to all concerned boards at the same time. This procedure will help identify areas of conflict at the earliest possible stage. Mrs. Smith applauded this concept. Mr. Marshall noted a situation that had recently occurred in the Meriam Hill area where a resident had cut down Town trees and vegetation bordering his lot and asked what recourse existed to prevent any similar situations in the future. Mr. White will investigate the resources that are now available. MINUTE MAN NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK A letter from Robert Nash, Superintendent, Minute man National Historical Park, U. S. Dept. of the Interior, National Park Service dated November 9, 1988 had been received by Mr. White informing the Hayward Pond Neighborhood Association and concerned legislators that that department was recommending to the Regional Director that the Draft Plan as regards to the Hayward Pond neighborhood be revised to include mod vegetative screening and alternative access, and the removal of those segments of Bonair and Fairview Aves, which connect Hayward Avenue to Old Mass . Ave. itt'r Selectmen 's Meeting November 14, 1988 Foss As this alternative would not require the acquisition of the residences in their community, the Dept. of Interior is also recommending that the segment shown as 01-Area A in the Land Status Maps be deleted from the Land Protection Plan. They are further recommending the continued study of this alternative to insure its feasibility. Upon motion duly made and seconded it was voted 5 - 0 by roll call vote, Mrs. Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Eddison, !Ar. Dailey, Mr. McSweeney, to co into Executive Session for discussion of matters of litigation, with no intent to resume open session. Upon motion duly made and seconded it was voted to adjourn at 9:45 p.m. A true record, Attest: (2./a - if Audrey F. Deshler Principal Clerk 111". v um/ mod 1 SELECTMEN'S MEETING ,VC pins November 21 , 1988 A regular meeting of the Board of Selectm n was held on Monday, Novem- ber 21 , 1988, in Estabrook Hall , Cary Memorial Building, at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Smith, Mr. Marshall , Mr. Dailey, Mr. Eddison , Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Ms. Radway, Asst. to tne Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. PUBLIC HEARING, BEL CANTO LIQUOR LICENSE Chairman Smith read the Legal Notice of a Public Hearing on the application of Daman Enterprises, Inc. for a Common Victualler License to sell all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises of Bel Canto Restaurant, 1709 Mass. Avenue, Lexington. Attorney Stephen Russian, representing Daman Enterprises, and Henry Patterson, President, were present. Mr. Russian referred to the successful operation of Bel Canto in Lexington Center until its premises were destroyed by fire in 1986. He assured the Board of the owner's intent to continue to operate in complieance with Town and State regulations to provide the same high quality of service as had been offered previously. He stated that all required documents for submission to the ABCC and the Town had been properly filed with the Executive Clerk. Mrs. Smith noted that the customary Police report on the character and back- ground of the proposed Manager with regard to his suitability for appointment to the position was still pending and it was suggested that the Liquor License be approved, subject to approval of Donald Vaundell as Manager. There being no questions from those in attendance or from Board members , rs. Smith declared the hearing closed. Motion was made and seconded to approve the application of Daman Enterprises , Inc. d/b/a/ Bel Canto Restaurant, for a Common Victualler License to sell all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises at 1709 Massachusetts Avenue, subject to final approval of the premises by the Building Commissioner and the Health Director and approval of the appointment of Donald Vaundell as Manager pending until a statement assuring the Board of his good character is received frum tne Chief of Police. Mr. Eddison moved to amend the motion to approve a fee of $750.00, rather than the standard yearly fee of $3,000.00 for a Liquor License to expire on December 31 , 1988. Mr. Eddison' s motion was seconded, and the main motion was so amended. Motion having been made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application of Daman Enterprises , Inc. , with conditions as stated above, for a Common Victualler License to sell all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises at 1709 Massa- chusetts Avenue at a fee of $750.00 for the final quarter of 1988. COMMON VICTUALLER LICENSE, BEL CANTO It was also voted to approve transfer of a Common Victualler License from Bel Canto's temporary base of operation at 211 Massachusetts Avenue to the 1709 Massachusetts Avenue location , for the remainder of 1988. The Executive Clerk was excused from the meeting at that time. fi ( 7 A true record, Attest: If 1, ,x;/ Marion H. Snow Executiv Clerk .......... 2 �8 ' ' /~ Selectmen's Meeting November 21, 1988 JOINT MEETING ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING Board of Selectmen Chairman Smith introduced the meeting by providing background information on the Planning Board and Board of Selectmen work ~M" ..essxons that preceded tne large group meeting now taking place. She indicated the purpose of the large group meeting composed of all Town Boards and Committees involved in housing issues was to get input and recommendations and a general positive consensus on the housing strategy proposed by the Planning Board and Board of Selectmen, to stimulate thinking about roles and responsibilities, and to get to know our fellow housing advocates better. (attendance record attached) Chairman Smith then detailed A) the risks of not having a comprehensive housing strategy ( loss of diverse citizenry, comprehensive permits resulting in loss of local control ) , B) whom such an affordable housing strategy would serve (elderly, single heads of housegold, town employees, service sector workers, special and regional needs citizens) , and, C) who should be involved in the provision and development of affordable housing in Lexington (LHA, Town, State, schools, business, religious groups, service organizations, home owners and developers) . the Chairman Smith outlined the housing strategy developed by the Planning Board and Board of Selectmen as follows: To create 100-175 units of public or privately developed affordable housing over the next five years via the following mechanisms: ~imo *Town initiated development on school sites, beginnning with Meagherville *Scatter site housing *Working with private developers on multi-family oevelopments *reviewing the accessory apartment bylaw, and making it more attractive Judith Uhrig, Chairman of the Planning Board discussed her Board and tne Board of Selectmen's lack of a consensus on the proper role to be pleyea in the advancement of affordable housing in town by each of the participating committees and boards involved in housing. Rick White, Town Manager discussed the staff's role in providing engineering and other information necessary to the policy boards that need to present Town Meeting with an acceptable affordable housing development proposal . He said it was premature to talk about hiring a "Housing Specialist" until such time as the town has developed more affordable housing. The Town's needs at this time are too varied (engineering, planning, architectural , public relations, grantswriter, etc) to hire one person to oversee the development effort. Selectmen's Meeting November 21 , 1988 alma Attendance at JointMeeting on Affordable Housing_ Ellie Klauminzer, Planning Board Michael Muccioli , E. Lexington Assoc. William Hays, LexHAB Garrett Knight, E. Lexington Assoc. r3audet, LexHAB Ed Grant,TMMA; Housing Adv. Comm. Marshall Derby, LexHAB William Sen David Eagle, LexHAB Sheldon Spector, T.M.M. ; F.C.o.A. Sherry Edmonds , LexHAB Lynne Wilson, Recreation Committee Judith Uhrig, Planning Board Leona Martin, Housing Authority; Camille Passamonte, L.C.S.N. Fair Housing Committee Marion Shepp, L.C.S.N. Katy Wolf, T.M.M. ; Countryside Assoc. John L. Davies , L.C.S .N. Allan Shepp, Lexington Parents Comm. Anne Davies , L.C.S .N. Donald Wilson,LexHAB; Housing Authority Eric T. Clarke, Housing Adv. Group Bettie Clarke, T.M.M. Steven Baran, Human Svs Coordinator Gerri Weathers, Fair Housing Committee Stella Lui , TMMA Bill O'Neill , L.C.S.N. Meghan O'Neill , L.C.S .N. Paul Marshall , Bd. of Selectmen William Dailey, Bd. of Selectmen John Eddison, Bd. of Selectmen Leo McSweeney, Bd. of Selectmen Richard White, Town Manager Diane Muccioli , E. Lexington Assoc. Karsten Sorensen , Planning Board Thomas Gouzoule, Condo Cony. Board Albert Huang , Fair Housing Committee Martha Wood, Planning Board Joyce Miller, Conservation Comm. Robert Pressman, Fair Housing Comm. 6dmes McLaughlin, housing Authority Rita Sullivan, Housing Authority Ruth Nablo, Housing Authority William Spencer, Housing Authority David Williams, Planning Board Marjorie Daggett, TMMA Robert Bowyer, Planning Director Brian Hackley, L.C.S.N. (Housing) Richard Eaton, Emerson Gdns. Tenants Marjorie Weerts, Condo Cony. Board George Cooper, Emerson Gdns. Tenants Marilyn Nordby, Asst. Planner Liz Banks , Lexington Minute-Man Joan M. Wall , LexHAB Office Mgr. Donald Chisholm, Recreation Committee Joel Adler, Housing Needs Adv. Comm. pork Ruth Walton, TMMA -4- Chairman Smith opened the meeting to comments. A synopsis of the major concerns voiced follows: I . SPECIAL NEEDS: The Special Needs Committee has targeted a minimum of 44 families in Lexington that have identified Housing needs as a priority for their adult children. The Committee stated that independent housing for special needs residents is a low priority for the Commonwealth's housing agencies, ` w and thus needs to be addressed at the local level . The Committee specifically mentioned a need for: a: 2 Independent Living group homes, one for men and one for women; in Lexington, b: 24 hour staff for these homes, c: Research conducted to locate sources of funding to construct these homes d: informing appropriate state agencies about Lexington's special needs housing study The Lexington Housing Authority (LHA) voiced the need to have rental units for special needs residents, and advocated the inclusion of a requirement setting aside # of units for special needs housing in developments. II . CHAPTER 689 HOUSING: LHA seeks 2 plots of land on which to build Chapter 689 houses in Lexington. These buildings could house a number of rental or owner occupied units for special needs residents, who could take pride in their ownership or occupancy in independent living space. LHA noted that a Ch.689 house needs space enough for a single family home. Chapter 689 housing fulfills a regional need. III . LEXINGTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP STATUS: Selectmen Marshall reported on the status of the Town's application to the State for membership in the Massachusetts Housing Partnership, which would make the town eligible for grants and loans to both review large projects proposed in Lexington, and provide developers with incentives to build types of housing that Lexington wants and needs. The Town's application is pending, and a decision is due before the end of the year. Our proposal was controversial because it did not include the creation of a new housing committee to oversee the partnership's activities. Last year, a consultant, ABT Associates conducted a report on Equity Sharing possibilites in Lexington. Equity sharing would use either or both public and private funds to purchase housing units that the owner would by on loan, to be paid back over time. The preliminary assessment by ABT was that this would not be possible in Lexington, but that another meeting was needed to determine whether to take this concept any further. Selectmen' s Meeting -5- November 21 , 1988 IV. LEXHAB: »m% Lexhab is interested in being an owner/developer of affordable housing. Among Lexhab's strengths as an owner/developer are that it already understands the housing construction process, and that it can operate with greater speed than the Town because it already has the authority to acquire and build. Lexhab can undertake public education efforts to inform people of the need for affordable housing. It is concerned that an acceptable definition of affordable housing needs to be promulgated, one that "dispels the myth of its social ills. " Lexhab is concerned that any proposal for Meagherville must be put into the context of the larger, active afforable housing plan for all of Lexington if it is to be approved by Town Meeting. Lexhab 's professional opinions about the pros and cons of ownership vs rental housing unit construction should be consulted by the Town. Example: Rental units are easier to monitor over time for affordability compliance by tenants. V. TMMA: TMMA Executive Committee voiced its opinion that all neighborhoods should be asked to participate in the provision of affordable housing for Lexington, by asking each of them to locate a site and type of appropriate affordable housing. TMMA feels that in order to have success at Town Meeting, all major sites to be developed should be identified in location, size and scope at the beginning of the process. 9e should not be � targeting out Meagherville alone right now. Meagerville should be presented as the first phase of a comprehensive and detailed project. We ;r2 all one town. TMMA is in agreement that town needs to get moving on affordable housing. Both LHA and LEXHAB responded to TMMA that the state likes to see specific projects occuring, and not lots of studies and vague plans about what we might do. We need to get moving now. The state won' t wait much longer before penalizing us, and the town needs to start somewhere. They continued that the appropriate "Mix" of affordable housing is important to Lexington--that the town needs as high a ratio of affordable units / market units as possible. VI . ACCESSORY APPARTMENTS: Accessory apartments video in the works. It was mentioned that they are good for people who could not otherwise afford to live in Lexington, but ^ngisk they do not count in the affordable housing statistics used by the state. A review of why the accessory apartment bylaw is not working as well as people had hoped needs to be undertaken. _ // �- -6- / VII . CONSERVATION COMMISSION: Commission feels that the Town ought to study all all town lands for their most appropriate use, and not just designate all land that is buildable as potential sites for development of affordable housing. Commission also feels that town should be looking at rehabilitating existing structures for affordable housing, as well as new construction. The Commission pointed out that 2/3 vote of town meeting is necessary to rezone or utilize town land. VIII . Final words of encouragement and thanks were given each of the boards and committees present for participating in the discussion . The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 p.m. Deborah Radway Assistant to the Town Manager //3 / t / SELECTMEN'S MEETING p .(' t A November 28, 1988 IP A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmwas held on Monday, November 28, 1988, in the Selectmen' s Meeting Room, Town Office Building, at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Smith, Mr. Eddison, Mr. McSweeney; Mr. White, Town Manager; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel ; Ms. Radway, Asst. to the Town Manager; Mrs. Snow, Executive Clerk, were present. Mr. Marshall arrived later. MINUTES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve, as presented, the minutes of the Selectmen' s Meeting on October 17, 1988. TOWN ELECTION Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to call the 1989 Town Election on Monday, March 6, 1989, with polling hours from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. , and to hold the first deliberative session of the Annual Town Meeting on Monday, March 27, 1989, at 8:00 p.m. in Cary Pall , Cary Memorial Hall . WARRANT CLOSING Upon motion duly made and seconded it was voted to close the Warrant for the 1989 Annual Town Meeting on Thursday, December 7q, 1988, at 4:30 p.m. DECEMBER MEETING SCHEDULE It was agreed that meetings of the Board of Selectmen will be held on December 5, December 12, December 19, December 27, and January 3. The schedule is subject to revision if it is found that the workload of the Board will allow for cancellations . LIGHTING TOUR Mrs. Smith informed the Board of a request from Myla Kabat-Zinn that a field trip to view various types of street lights be scheduled in the near future. It was agreed that an attempt will be made to arrange the tour after the holidays, as early as possible in January and that the Design Advisory Committee and the Lexington Center Committee will be invited to participate. RENEWAL, LIQUOR LICENSES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the following applications for renewal of Common Victualler Licenses to sell all kinds of alcoholic beverages to he drunk on the premises: Clubs Lex. Knights of Columbus Members Assoc, Inc. 177 Redford Street Lexington Golf Club 55 Hili Street Lexington Lodge of Elks #2204 959 Waltham Street Middlesex Racquet P. Swim Club/The Lexington 475 Bedford Street Club Innholder Lexington Sheraton/ Tara 727 Marrett Road 9 Package Stores Lexington Liquor Mart, Inc 58 Bedford Street 3EG Enterprises , Inc./1775 Wine & Spirit Shop 27 Depot Square Berman 's marke+, inc. 55 Mass. Avenue Busa Brothers Liquors, Inc. 55 Bedford Street Vinebrook Bottle Shop 131 Mass. Avenue Restaurants Arty's Restaurant 177 Mass. Avenue rory' s of Lexington 20 Waltham Street Hartwell House 94 Hartwell Avenue Le Bellecour 10 Muzzey Street Peking Gardens 27-31 Waltham Street Versailles Restaurant 1777 Mass. Avenue Yangtze River Restaurant 21-25 Depot Square Bel Canto Restaurant 1709 Mass. Avenue RENEWALS, COMMON VICTUALLER LICENSES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the applications for renewal of Common Victualler Licenses frr 1989, as follows: Arty's Restaurant Brigham's Store #B6 177 Mass. Ave. 38 Redford Street Chadwick's The Coffee Connection, Inc. 903 Waltham Street 1729 Mass. Avenue Lexington Lodge of Elks #2204 Le Bellecour 959 Waltham Street 10-12 Muzzey Street The Lexington Club Mario's 475 Bedford Street 1733 Mass . Avenue One Meriam Peking Gardens Meriam Street 27-31 Waltham Street Putnam Pantry Steve's Ice Cream 1666 Mass. Avenue 1749 Mass. Avenue Versailles Restaurant Sheraton/Lexington 1777 Mass . Avenue 727 Marrett Road Yangtze River Restaurant Hartwell House, Inc. 21-25 Depot Square 94 Hartwell Avenue CONSENT AGENDA EXTENSION OF HOURS, RESTAURANTS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the following requests for extension of hours of operation and service of alcoholic beverages until 1:00 a.m. : Versailles Restaurant, 1777 Mass . Avenue, on December 31, 1988 Sheraton/Lexington Inn, 727 Marrett Road, On December 2, 1988, and on December 16, 1988 ii Selectmen 's Meeting _3_ November 28, 1988 RASKIN ROAD EASEMENT Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to execute a deed terminating a portion of the sewer easement on the property currently owned by Mr. & Mrs. Jay Hellman, 33 Baskin Road, as approved under Article 44 of the 1988 Annual Town Meeting. COMMITMENT OF WATER, SEWER CHARGES Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve Commitment of Charges , as follows: Water Charges, October final bills, in the amount of $7,375.75 Sewer Charges , October final hills, in the amount of $1,493.36 ABATEMENT, WATER CHARGES, 682 MARRETT ROAD Upon motion duly made and seconded, i was voted to approve the abatement of sewer charges for 682 Marrett Road, in the amount of $411.98, for property not attached to Town sewer. MARATHONS/BLUME LETTER Mr. Eddison referred to a complaint received from Fredi Blume, regarding the disruption of traffic caused by Marathons through Lexington Center. Ms. Blume had suggested that race sponsors should be required to notify all residents in advance of races and that routes other than main connector roads be used. dm. In response to questions on policy and procedures for granting permission for marathons , Mr. White said that only races which have been permitted in the past are now allowed. With reference to the November 20th race, which had prompted Ms. Blume's complaint, it had been thought that only half of Mass. Avenue would be used by the runners, but that was not the case. The Board will discuss the matter further after more information has been gathered by the Town Manager. CONTRACT 89-7, E. LEXINGTON FIRE STATION Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to award Contract #89-7 in the amount of $14,180.00 to RTP Associates, Inc. , 1600 Boston Providence Highway, Suite 118, Walpole, MA 02081 , for roofing and masonry repairs at the East Lexington Fire Station. CHAPTER 90 FORMS Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to execute Chapter 90 Forms for reimbursement in the amount of $85,011 .74 for resurfacing of Locust Avenue, Highland Avenue and Bloomfield Street. CH. 667 & 705, INTERFAITH HOUSING Mr. White reviewed an application for Ch. 667 and Ch. 705 elderly and family housing which will allow the Town to assume control of the 6 two-bedroom homes on Garfield Street now owned by Lexington Interfaith, He noted that the procedure will not add to the Town's housing stock, but will transfer maintenance of the units to the Lexington Housing Authority. Mr. White and the Housing Authority Chairman will endorse the application. 1 ‘„, ) 1 -4- SCHUMACHER TRUST FUND Mr. Cohen brought to the Board 's attention the donation by the Schumacher family to establish the Mary and August Schumacher Trust Fund which will provide -cor scholarships. Mr. Cohen suggestea that a letter of thanks be sent to the donors by the Board. Mr. Marshall joined the meeting at that time. SENATOR KRAUS Senator Kraus began his remarks by suggestirg procedures to the Board which might facilitate passage of Home Rule Petitions in the future. He noted that three Lexington petitions had not made it through the Legislature and pointed out the importance of sending his office copies of any such bill early in the process. HP also advised that his name appear as co-sponsor on hills to ensure that he would be notified nf hearings and when the bills would come before the House. The Senator reported that he had been working nearly full-time in late summer and the fall on the expansion of local revenue sources. He was not optimistic that the local aid process would work well this year and saw little chance that Lexington 's share would be increased. He felt that the Legislators will want morn time than was taken last year to look at finances before making determinations on local aid. Through expansion of the local revenue base, the Senator would hope to see property taxes lowered by greater reliance on other revenue and to see inclusion of income tax revenue for cities and towns. He would also hope to establish a revenue base which can grow at a rate of 6% to 7% each year. Mr. White asked the Senator his views on the Governor's intent to access $91 million in Lottery Funds to balance the State budget when the communities had considered that money as local aid. Senator Kraus said that he expects that future lottery funds will go to the towns as before and that the Governor's action was in response to an unusual situation. Senator Kraus said that he fully expects developments on the Land Bank tax this year which would emerge as part of the package to address local governments ' needs. Mrs. Smith outlined the basis of efforts to obtain state funding for the Clinton Wastewater Plant to avoid placing the burden of costs on MWRA ratepayers now that the facility is under the aeais of MWRA. Lexington supports this procedure. Senator Kraus will explore the issue before deciding on his position. There was brief discussion of H5550, a bill relative to financing of water infrastructure projects which would involve $? billion for loans to communities. The Board asked the Senator to stay sensitive to the issue. School Supt. Geiger and members of the School Committee and Finance Committees were present. Supt. Geiger referred to the financial burdens relative to State mandates for special education and costs for transporting and asked the Senator if any financial aid could be expected for special reeds programs. Senator Kraus foresaw little change possible under the current law. Mr. Marshall noted the need for legislation to change maximum feasible criteria and urged the joint effort of the Selectmen, School Committee and MMA to promote such legislation. 17 Selectmen' s Meeting -5- November 28, 1988 Senator Kraus was not optimistic about the chances of amending the law and advised mainstreaming of special needs students as much as possible, rather than private placements. Board members agree° with Mr. Marshall 's assessment that no Legislator works harder and spends more time on issues to benefit communities in his district than,does Senator Kraus. s BUDGET PROCESS ,„ Mr. White distributed and reviewed with the Board his 198P/1989 Budget Preparation Calendar. He noted changes in budget preparation scheduling which would begin that evening with a meeting of the Finance Committees and Supt. of Schools with the Selectmen. As a result of the revised schedule, the Manager hopes to present his budget recommendations to the Board one month earlier than usual on Oanuary 9. Town Departments are to submit budget requests by November 30 and he had asked that the School Committee submit its proposed budget before Christmas. Dr. Geiger reported that he is now reviewing all school programs and assured the Board that he is making every effort to scrutinize every dollar request, with the realization that everything cannot be #1 priority. Mr. O'Sullivan, Chairman of the Appropriation Committee, referred to prior meetings of his committee with Dr. Geiger and the School 0.4 Committee for discussion of Town budget matters and said that he felt very encouraged by the ongoing communication established. Mr. White reviewed a chart showing financial forecasts through FY94. He said that he had been impressed by Dr. Geiger's spirit of cooperation in budgeting talks to date and was hopeful that by continuing to work together, the Town' s good financial standing can be maintained and future deficits avoided. T response to Mr. Marshall ' s ouestion on the Houhlinn of dater/sewer rates for FY90, Mr. White expiaineo that the new rares would make those accounts self-funding, as previously planned. Mr. Newman, School Committee Chairman, acknowledged that all Boards working together will be of great help when the budget is presented to Town Meeting. He said that it is the intention of the School Committee and the Superintendent to have both students and the taxpayers well served. STREET ACCEPTANCES Upon motion duly made and seconded, the intent to lay out streets, as set forth in a memorandum from Francis X. Fields, Town Engineer, dated 7/1/88, was voted as follows: Hampton Road, from Concord Avenue, 590'+ southwesterly to end. Clematis Road, from Allen Street, 705 '+ easterly to end. Dover Lane, from Pleasant Street, 540'11- northerly to end. South Rindge Avenue, Bow Street to Rinifge Avenue, 1127'+ Valleyfield Street, from Bridge Street, 450'+ northerly to end. Mrs. Smith abstained from voting since she is a resident of one of the streets. Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was vot d to adjourn at 9:40 A true record, Attest: Marion H. Snow Executive Clerk VOIO