Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-Annual Report2005 ANNUAL REPORT TOWN OF LEXINGTON MASSACHUSETTS TABLE OF CONTENTS Revenue Sources Operating Expenses Town Government, pp. 4 -21 Board of Selectmen 4 Town Manager 6 Management Information Systems 7 No Place for Hate 8 Lexington 2020 Vision Committee 8 Personnel Advisory Board 9 Town Clerk /Board of Registrars 10 Moderator 11 Elected Town Officials 11 Town Elections 12 Town Meeting Members 13 Town Meeting Members Association 16 Health Benefits Review 17 Town Meeting 18 Special Town Meeting 21 Public Safety, pp. 22 -28 Police Department 22 Police Manual Committee 24 Fire Department 25 Biosafety Committee 27 Board of Health 27 Traffic Safety Advisory Committee 28 Public Facilities, pp. 29 -42 Department of Public Works 29 Water and Sewer Rate Study 38 Lexington Tree Committee 39 Permanent Building Committee 40 Electric Utility Ad Hoc Committee 41 Sidewalk Committee 41 Education, pp. 43 -51 School Committee 43 Superintendent of Schools 45 LPS Summary of Outside Funding 46 School Expenditures by Line Item 47 Minuteman Regional High School 50 Lexington Community Education 51 Land Use, pp. 52 -70 Planning 52 Board of Appeals 53 Regional Planning 56 Historic Districts Commission 57 Lexington Historical Commission 62 Design Advisory Committee 62 Office of Community Development Building Division 63 Hanscom Committees (HATS/HFAC) 64 Lexington Center Committee 65 LexHAB 66 Lexington Housing Authority 66 Lexington Housing Partnership 67 Conservation Commission 68 Bicycle Advisory Committee 70 2 Social Services, pp. 71 -74 3 Social Services Department 71 Council on Aging 72 Human Services Committee 72 Commission on Disability 73 Fair Housing/Human Relations Committee 74 Lexington Youth Commission 74 Culture and Leisure, pp. 75 -82 Cary Memorial Library 75 Recreation Department & Committee 77 Tourism Committee 78 Cary Lecture Series Committee 79 Lexington Council for the Arts 79 Town Celebrations Committee 80 Dolores Hidalgo Committee Sister City 81 Communications Advisory Committee 82 Finances, pp. 83 -99 Appropriation Committee 83 Capital Expenditures Committee 85 Revenue Officer 86 Board of Assessors 87 Tax Deferral and Exemption Study 89 Financial Data 89 Comptroller 90 Retirement Board 99 Legal and Trusts, pp. 100 -110 Trustees of Public Trusts 100 Fund for Lexington 100 Town Counsel 109 Lexington by the Numbers 111 Index 112 2005 Annual Report Town of Lexington, Massachusetts Chair Kerry Brandin Editorial Staff Zelda Sokal Bob Morrison Audrea Simpson John Ayvazian Jeri Zeder Photography David S. Tabeling Original Design Jeanette Webb Layout Peter Amirault TYPE A, Medford, MA Printer Techdoc Publishing 1500 copies printed Also available at http: / /ci.lexington.ma.us Special thanks to all town staff and committee members whose cooper- ation was critical to the success of this publication. Narratives summarize activities of the 2005 calendar year. Unless oth- erwise noted, financial data reports the total dollars expended in the fis- cal year (FY) which began July 1 and ended June 30 of the designat- ed year. 1.4 j . ;aodab ienuuy 500Z 5 2005 ANNUAL REPORT MASSACHUSETTS id ON THE COVER: The new Harrington School opened in April. Photo by Carl Oldenburg. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 1 2005 Revenue Sources 2004 $126,443,036 "Am Total Revenue Sources $117,651,167 $70,536,037 Residential Real Estate $64,074,141 $14,594,741 Commercial Real Estate $13,103,735 $ 2,679,038 Industrial Real Estate $ 2,531,242 $ 2,545,019 Personal Property $ 2,453,354 $10,246,952 Local Receipts $ 9,315,000 $ 8,059,161 State $ 7,894,598 $ 1,578,160 Available Funds $ 303,218 $ 150,000 Available Surplus $ 640,333 $ 6,597,892 Water Enterprise Funds $ 6,710,048 $ 7,867,680 Sewer Enterprise Funds $ 9,021,226 $ 1,588,357 Recreation $ 1,604,272 Page 2 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington 2005 Operating Expenses 2004 si 22,776,030 Total Operating Expenses $113,517,484* $67,244,541 Education $63,767,322 $66,411,274 Lexington Public Schools $62,900,663 $ 833,267 Regional Schools $ 866,659 $ 8,134,835 Community Services $ 7,176,276 $ 7,843,916 DPW General Fund $ 7,176,276 $ 290,919 Transportation (LEXPRESS) $ 0 $ 8,401,745 Public Safety $ 7,342,294 $ 4,288,363 Law Enforcement $ 3,782,763 $ 4,113,382 Fire Services $ 3,559,531 $ 1,726,938 Culture $ 1,544,777 $ 1,726,938 Library $ 1,544,777 $ 792,862 Community Development $ 830,205 $ 175,412 Planning Board $ 203,419 $ 612,918 Inspectional Services $ 551,594 $ 4,532 Economic Development $ 75,192 $ 397,362 Social Services $ 370,108 $ 293,401 Council on Aging $ 319,331 $ 103,961 Human Services $ 50,777 $ 3,088,607 General Government $ 3,108,098 $ 399,614 Town Counsel $ 350,392 $ 35,650 Town Committees $ 32,846 $ 258,083 Town Clerk's Office $ 249,417 $ 133,646 Board of Selectmen $ 119,201 $ 379,764 Town Manager's Office $ 354,368 $ 5,936 Town Report $ 6,000 $ 841,229 Finance Department $ 938,400 $ 355,548 MIS $ 331,331 $ 679,137 State & County Assessments $ 726,143 $18,819,682 Shared Expenses $14,673,895 $ 123,636 Organizational Expenses $ 130,011 $ 7,899,895 Employee Benefits /Insurance $ 6,228,206 $ 173,238 Temporary Borrowing $ 234,166 $ 3,701,000 Debt Service Principal $ 3,253,000 $ 6,363,045 Exempt Debt $ 4,280,558 $ 558,868 Debt Service Interest $ 547,954 $14,169,458 Enterprise Funds $14,704,509 $ 5,791,155 Water $ 5,378,012 $ 6,840,667 Sewer $ 7,823,989 $ 1,537,636 Recreation $ 1,502,508 •M •F- " 2004 amounts have increased by $16,452 over the printed 2004 Annual Report due to the omission of Web Development. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 3 TOWN GOVERNMENT Board of Selectmen ELECTED by the voters at large to 3 -year terms: Chair Jeanne Krieger, Peter Expenditures FY05 FY04 Payroll $55,515 $47,339 Expenses $78,131 $71,862 Kelley, Richard Pagett, Norman Cohen and Hank Manz. 2005 was a year of transition for the Board of Selectmen. Linda Vine served the community as Acting Town Manager until Carl Valente came on board as Town Manager on July 11. Linda Vine's tenure was marked by a strong sense of personal accountability and accessibility. Carl Valente's sound financial background and infectious enthusiasm for local government are already making an impact. Fiscal With health care and energy costs consuming ever- increas- ing chunks of the allowable 2 -1/2% increase, the interval between years with operating overrides is becoming shorter. The FY06 budget was balanced, relying on the collabora- tive process that has served the community well for the past several years, and was approved at the spring Town Meeting using a non - recurring revenue source, a transfer from the overlay surplus account, and one million dollars that should have been dedicated to cash capital projects. Based on the passage of the 2004 override, steady progress building reserves, and resumption of payments to the pen- sion trust fund, Moody's lifted their negative outlook on the Town's Aaa rating. The vast talent of the Town's citizens has been tapped to examine fiscal issues. A newly formed Financial Policy Committee will review the Town's reserve, debt, and capital funding policies. The Health Benefits Review Committee found that, despite the Town's ever increasing health care costs, all obvious cost savings measures have been consid- ered. Recommendations of the Water and Sewer Rate Study Committee have been adopted in the preparation of the FY07 budget. The Selectmen committed to phasing out the Water and Sewer Pilot. A business manager has been hired to address billing and receivable issues associated with the Enterprise Funds. In July, the incoming Superintendent of Schools noted there were insufficient funds to pay FY05 bills and a nearly $1.5 million projected shortfall in FY06 school expenses. The School Committee accepted the Superintendent's recom- mendation to raise revenue and make cuts worth $729,000. At a Special Town Meeting in November, Town Meeting unanimously appropriated funds to pay the FY05 bills and supplement the balance of the identified FY06 projected deficit. A $1.8 million onetime increase in free cash, result- ing from interest accrued on funds borrowed in anticipation of exempt debt associated with the secondary school pro- jects, was recognized in the fall and a portion promptly put continued on next page Rear L -R: William Lahey, Norman Cohen, Hank Manz, Carl Valente, Linda Vine. Front L -R: Peter Kelley, Jeanne Krieger, Lynne Pease, Richard Pagett. Page 4 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington 0 0 bilage± S pinEa Board of Selectmen continued from previous page to use to defray the unanticipated School expenses. Even with a robust free cash balance, preparations for the FY07 budget suggest an operating override will be necessary to maintain level services and to restore personnel necessary for addressing service requirements. As proud as the Selectmen are of running a lean, efficient, organization, the Town is not staffed adequately to service the community, to adequately maintain buildings, or to adopt new technology that will enable the municipal employees to better serve the public. Town Assets The Selectmen are seeking ways to cost - effectively maintain assets and build efficiencies into new facilities. The 2005 Annual Town Meeting recommended that the Community Preservation Act (CPA), a state program that matches dollar for dollar a community's contribution to address open space, affordable housing, and historic preser- vation projects, be put to the voters at the next scheduled town election on March 6, 2006. Funds were appropriated at spring Town Meeting to design a new DPW facility at 201 Bedford Street and to design a replacement for the School Administration Building, the infa- mous White House adjacent to the Town Office complex. These projects are on schedule to come before the 2006 Annual Meeting for a recommendation for funding, more than likely through a subsequent debt exclusion override. Interest has been renewed to site a Senior Center. The Senior Center Action Plan Committee is expected to have recom- mendations for the spring Town Meeting to permit appro- priation for design and engineering studies. In a citizen ini- tiative, a group is seeking private funding to construct restrooms at Lincoln Park. Steps have been taken to seriously address energy conserva- tion, both in existing buildings and for new construction. The Energy Conservation and Lighting Options committees have been merged and revitalized to identify energy saving programs in existing assets. A Sustainable (Green) Design Policy recommended by the Permanent Building Committee has been adopted for all new construction. To the extent possible, all renovations and new projects over 5,000 square feet will meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design LEEDTM Silver standards. The design and construc- tion of the new Fiske School includes enough environmen- tally friendly features that the project might well meet the more stringent LEEDTM Gold standards. The new Lexington Farmers' Market became a regular weekly feature of the Center during the summer and through October, introducing residents to easily accessible, local grown produce. Nature and human error took their toll. Heavy rains on April 25 contributed to the toppling of a 115- year -old sugar maple on the Battle Green. KeySpan has accepted responsibility for an explosion November 9 that leveled a private home and resulted in a disruption of gas service for 1400 customers for as many as 10 days. The response to the gas emergency from all town employees, and there were very few who were not in some way involved, was commended by state officials and typifies the best of Lexington leadership. Communication The gas emergency defined a new level for rapid town -wide communication that was met by existing institutions. LexMedia, the non - profit access corporation that began operation of Public, Educational, and Government (PEG) broadcasting in October, was prepared and aired interviews with Town officials to allay citizen concerns and provide valuable follow -up information. The Town's Website proved effective as a means of rapidly disseminating important infor- mation. The Selectmen are committed to continued use of these tools and others to make town information more avail- able to the public. Approved minutes are now posted on the Website, and Selectmen hours have been instituted so citizens can bring concerns and participate in seeking solutions. Planning The intensive effort to revitalize the Center business district was recognized and applauded by Chronicle, the Channel 5 local interest program. A charette, sponsored by the Center Collaborative, a cooperation of the Center Committee and the Design Advisory Committee, focused attention on the need to make the Center more open and accessible. Parking in the Center continues to perplex. Plans are underway to convert the space in back of the Boston Edison (NSTAR) building into 30 additional parking spaces. At the Special Town Meeting in the fall the Battle Green Inn property was rezoned to permit residences and retail space to replace the aging motel. Moving about Town continues to be an active area of inter- est. The successful pilot Safe Routes to School Program at Bridge School sponsored by the Sidewalk Committee demonstrated enthusiasm for leaving the car at home and walking. A Traffic Mitigation Group is being established to look holistically at traffic issues and devise traffic demand strategies. Activities at Hanscom dominate regional planning initia- tives. The Base Relocation and Closing process (BRAC) concluded with the Air Force Base remaining open, but with loss of a few hundred jobs associated with the Air Force Research Laboratory. The collaboration established by the Hansom Area Town Selectmen (HATS) with the Defense Technology Initiative (MassDTI) was successful in retaining the Base as a vibrant force in the local economy. Even before the BRAC was complete, Massport announced its intention to develop the west side of the Airfield by con- struction of a terminal for private jets. Both the citizens groups and HATS have challenged this proposed develop- continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 5 Board of Selectmen continued from previous page ment. The Selectmen adopted a Sustainable Hanscom Policy, which calls for a moratorium on scheduled commer- cial and cargo flights at Hanscom, as well as limits on noise to 2000 levels, a level that can sustain economically viable activity at the airfield without undue hardship to the National Park and adjacent residential areas. Efforts are underway with Arlington, Lincoln, and Concord in con- junction with Minute Man National Historical Park and the Metropolitan Area Planning Council to seek designa- tion for the Massachusetts Avenue corridor as part of the Battle Road Scenic Byway. Such a designation would ulti- mately permit funding to protect the historic, cultural, scenic, and environmental resources of the named area. The Selectmen's successes are a direct result of the enthusi- asm and dedication of Lexington's citizens, the support and leadership of the town staff, and the collaborative spirit of the appointed and elected town boards. The role of the Selectmen is largely one of guidance and encouragement for the other citizen groups serving the Town. Town Manager ROLE: To act as Chief Executive Officer of the Town, as estab- lished in the Selectmen -Town Manager Act, and to administer Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $326,104 $ 9,331 $310,678 $ 11,422 Personnel Full Time 4 5 Part Time 0 0 the policies and procedures of the Board of Selectmen, enforce bylaws and actions passed by Town Meeting, and prepare the budget and manage the daily operation of all town departments. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Acting Town Manager Linda Crew Vine, August 2004 -July 2005. Carl Valente appointed July 2005. New Town Manager 2005 was a year of transitions for the Town Manager's Office. Linda Vine began the year as the Acting Town Manager, bringing the Town through the FY06 budget process and Town Meeting and provided extraordinary ser- vice during this period. In July Carl Valente was appointed Town Manager, after having served in a similar position in Weston, Massachusetts. As the Town was without a Finance Director /Comptroller during this year, both Ms. Vine and Mr. Valente also oversaw the operations of the Finance Department. Budget Process The development of the FY06 budget continued the collab- orative process followed in the last several years between the staff and the Board of Selectmen as well as the various other stakeholders in the community, including the School Committee, the Appropriation and Capital Expenditures Committees. Four collaborative budget sessions were held during the fall and winter to produce a budget that addressed many of the pressing needs, without having to ask the voters to consider a Proposition 2 -1/2 override. Financial Policies Lexington is one of approximately 15 communities in the Commonwealth that enjoys an Aaa bond rating, the highest achievable. For the first time in 2004 Moody's Investor's Service, the Town's rating agency, assigned the Town an Aaa rating with a negative outlook, citing a reduction of cash reserves, the failed override in 2003, and the deferral of a portion of the Town's contribution to the pension fund. The FY05 budget proposed a number of recommendations to address the concerns of Moody's, including fully funding the pension assessment, and using limited free cash reserves to balance the budget, thereby allowing reserves to build back up. In April 2005 Moody's removed its negative out- look with the statement, "Removal of the negative outlook incorporates continued improvement in the Town's finan- cial position following years of deterioration, a successful transition among senior management, and passage of a sub- stantial operating override to Proposition 2 -1/2 in 2004." Water /Sewer Enterprise Funds The Town Manager's office commissioned a special audit of the Town's Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund accounts. This audit was received in August and provided reconciliation for the reduction in the reserves for these funds. In summary, the auditors found that an incomplete computer billing conver- sion and lower consumption were largely responsible for the decrease in water and sewer reserves. This audit paralleled the work of a special committee appointed by the Board of Selectmen to study the Water /Sewer Enterprise Funds. As a result of the recommendations made by this Committee, the Town Manager proposed and the Board of Selectmen adopt- ed the following policy and management changes: created the position of Water /Sewer Business Manager to oversee the billing and financial operations of these accounts; eliminated the practice of including in the Water /Sewer rates an amount for depreciation, since this account overlapped with the debt service costs already included in the water /sewer rate analy- sis; began phasing out the payment -in- lieu -of -taxes which is paid by the Enterprise funds to the General fund; changed the water /sewer rate structure to a three -block structure from a four -block structure to create a more equitable rate plan. continued on next page Page 6 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Town Manager continued from previous page KeySpan Gas Event The home at 3 Hancock Avenue was completed destroyed by a natural gas explosion on November 9. KeySpan was ordered to turn off gas service in portions of the Town so that approximately 1400 KeySpan customers were without natural gas service. This was a significant emergency man- agement event for the Town involving staff from the Police, Fire, Public Works, Building Inspector, Health, Social Services and Town Manager's Office. Town officials responded to the KeySpan event in four ways: 1. The Lexington Fire Department responded to the initial explosion and fire at 3 Hancock Avenue. In addition the Town received mutual aid from Burlington, Waltham, Bedford, Belmont, Woburn, Concord and Hanscom AFB. 2. The Lexington Fire Department also responded to subse- quent natural gas leaks at other locations in Town. These gas leaks resulted in a second mutual aid response that brought in fire companies from Winchester, Somerville, Cambridge, Weston and Medford. At this point, the Fire Chief and Police Chief ordered KeySpan to shut down the natural gas distribution system in the affected area. This was a critical decision to prevent further injuries and property damage and the two Chief's are to be recognized for their timely and decisive action. 3. Town officials addressed the health and safety needs of high -risk residents who were without heat, hot water, and the use of other appliances that use natural gas. 4. Beginning on November 11 and lasting through December, Town and State officials monitored the restoration process for natural gas service. Senior Management Team Since 1995 the Senior Management Team, made up of the Town's 11 department managers, has worked together with the Town Manager to define organizational mission, set goals and objectives, and produce and measure results. The team concept was tested while Linda Vine served as Acting Town Manager and her position of Assistant Town Manager remained vacant. The Senior Management Team continued to maintain the organization's collaborative cul- ture to keep municipal programs and services functioning effectively during this extended period of transition. Human Resources Function Due to budget constraints, the staff in the Town Manager's Office was reduced by two positions during calendar 2004 with the elimination of the Human Resources Generalist position and the combining of the Benefits Manager and the Revenue Officer positions. Human Resources responsibili- ties have been reallocated among other Town Manager's Office staff, and some tasks have been decentralized to the departments. After two years with this approach, it appears that in order for proper controls and management over- sight, a human resources director should be hired, funding permitting Management Information Systems ROLE: To pro- vide high - quality, cost - effective information tech- nology resources to town depart- ments, so that they can provide services to the citizens of the Town. MIS is solely responsible for the maintenance and security of the town departments' local area network. Other responsibili- ties include technology policy development, organizational training, end -user support, data management, and website maintenance. The MIS Department co- manages the Town's Wide Area Network with the Lexington Public Schools MIS Department. Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $152,713 $202,835 $166,432 $164,899 Personnel Full Time 3 3 APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Coordinator Connie Rawson until July 1. A new coordinator was not named by year -end. HIGHLIGHTS • Instituted a system to automatically update Windows client workstations with Microsoft recommended security updates. • Collaborated with the School MIS Department to evalu- ate and implement a network spam filter solution that has reduced overall spam email by approximately 75%. • Continued to partner with the Engineering Department to further develop a GIS initiative whereby 80% of the par- cel -shape files have been completed to date. • Piloted a remote access solution for a limited number of critical -use applications. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 7 No Place For HateTM Committee ROLE: To work with citizens and town employees to create a community- based, shared vision of Lexington as a preju- dice- and bias -free community where tolerance is the norm, each individual is protected and respected for his /her unique characteristics, and respect and civility govern public dis- course. To recognize and celebrate diversity; challenge big- otry, racism, discrimination, hate crimes, civil rights viola- tions, and acts of bias; and build inter -group understanding and respect. Steering Committee Members: Chair Jill Smilow, Rev. Judy Brain, Lexington Interfaith Clergy Association; Joseph O'Leary, Lexington Police Department; David Horton, Charles Martin, and Yukari Scott, Community Representatives; Tom Diaz and Olga Guttag, School Committee Liaisons; Leona Martin, Lexfest! Connecting Our Cultures; Brenda Prusak, Respecting Differences Liaison; Mary Sullivan Kelly, Lexington Public Schools; Linda Crew Vine, Lexington Town Manager's Office; Hank Manz, Board of Selectmen Liaison; Ravi Sakhuja, Indian American Association; Becky Rushford, Youth Services Coordinator Liaison. HIGHLIGHTS • Re- endorsed unanimously by the Board of Selectmen in honor of the fifth year of Lexington's commitment to the No Place for Hate initiative. • In partnership with the Lexington Coalition for Racial Equality, participated in the Martin Luther King, Jr. cele- bration events. • In response to outside hate groups encroaching on the continued on next page Lexington 2020 Vision Committee ROLE: To be stewards of the January 2001 Lexington 2020 Vision Status Report and monitor the implementa- tion process. The Committee seeks to keep the goals cur- rent, identify community priorities, engage larger con- stituencies having responsibility for action items, and develop measures for tracking and reporting on progress. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen, in consultation with the School Committee and the Planning Board, for 3 -year terms: Fernando Quezada, Chuck Benson, Scott Burson, Marian Cohen, Peter Enrich, Stacey Hamilton, Tom Harden, Peter Lee, Richard Pagett, Ann Redmon, and Nancy Tentindo. The Committee meets approxi- mately once a month, and establishes subcommittees that meet as needed during the year. HIGHLIGHTS • Received and reviewed reports from three 2020 Vision Task Forces, and reported on their recommendations to the elected boards, Town Meeting, and the community. • Provided orientation to two new Selectmen, the new Town Manager, and the new School Superintendent on the Lexington 2020 Vision process. • Met with representatives of the Selectmen, School Committee and Planning Board, as well as staff, to dis- cuss implementation of Task Force recommendations and next steps. • Advocated for attention to the recommendations of the Budget Process and the Constructive Community Discourse Task Force reports. • Participated in the Lexington Center Collaborative charrette. • Staffed a table display for public outreach at Discovery Day. II 1 Front L -R: Ann Redmon, Candy McLaughlin, Marian Cohen, Rear L -R: Peter Enrich, Fernando Quezada, Richard Pagett, Thomas Watkins. • Noted that a number of implementation steps are underway, including moving the budget schedule for- ward, having a Financial Policy Review Committee, upgrading the Town's website, and planning training for board and committee chairs. • Identified the possibility of creating new task forces to revisit the topic of Economic Development and explore options for Sustainable Lexington. • Began working on a report to the community on progress toward the vision and goals. • Continued to address ways to improve public commu- nication and engage new people to become involved in local government. Recruitment of new committee members to represent diverse segments of the commu- nity is ongoing. 0 0 6upgel .S pined Page 8 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington No Place For Hate Committee continued from previous page community, the Incident Response Team, created in part- nership with the Emergency Response Team members as a communal response to incidents of hate and hate crimes in Lexington, developed a public message on the best way to respond to hate group activity. • In response to a particular incident in April, held a CommUNITY Rally in Depot Square to speak up and out against hate and to articulate the values the community holds dear. Several hundred community leaders, employ- ees, and residents joined together to honor those values which include inclusivity, respect for one another, and a commitment to civil discourse. • In response to a planned protest by a homophobic hate group on several houses of worship in the community, partnered with the Lexington Clergy Association to cre- ate a "Shield of Loving Kindness" for targeted neighbors. With less than two weeks of preparation, 200 individuals representing many different faiths and beliefs in Lexington came together for a training in non - violent protest. As a result, targeted neighbors were able to attend their religious services without fear, knowing they had the full support of the community. • In planning for the hate group activity in Lexington, part- nered with Respecting Differences and held multiple meetings to share information, ideas, fears, and facts around the incidents. Present were representatives from the Police Department, Town Manager's Office, School System, Interfaith Clergy Association, Board of Selectmen, and School Committee as well as community members who felt personally threatened by these groups. The meetings helped quiet fears and served to enlighten the community to events unfolding in Lexington. • In partnership with Cary Memorial Library and the CML Foundation, led the fall Lexington Reads! program with a series of events and book discussions based on Pulitzer - prize winning author Jhumpa Lahiri's book, The Namesake. Personnel Advisory Board ROLE: To assist the Town Manager's Office in achieving its human resources mission motivating town employees to reach their full potential on the job and attracting highly qualified candidates to fill job open- ings. Provides guidance and advice regarding issues related to employment and employee relations, compen- sation and benefits, employee communications, training and development, and health and safety. Appointed by the Board of Selectmen: Co- Chairs Janet Perry and Evelyn Silber; William Barnes, Richard Evans, Judy Minardi, and Laurie Smith Peck. HIGHLIGHTS • Provided input and advice in the following areas: Recruitment process New employee orientation Review of classification system, including job descriptions Review experience with outsourcing Workers Comp and Police /Fire Medical — Safety organization review of policies and practices — Training and development — Coaching and mentoring models — Collective bargaining review Exit process Review and update of policies and procedures and benefits handbooks, reflecting new laws /regulations Performance measurement for HR — Review performance management and rewards systems — Define future HR position • Served on search committees to hire a Finance Director, a School Superintendent, and a Town Manager. The School Superintendent and Town Manger searches began during 2004. • Served on the Health Benefits Review Committee, which reviewed health benefits offered to town employees and retirees and made recommendations regarding benefit levels, funding, benefits communica- tions, and actions that could be taken to minimize future cost increases. Front L -R: Evelyn Silber, Norman Cohen, Laurie Peck, Watkins, Linda Vine. Rear L -R: Candy McLaughlin, Bill Barnes, Dick Evans, Janet Perry, Claudia Sheffield, Judy Minardi, Rose Ducharme. Tom 6uHage± S pima :010gd 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 9 Town Clerk /Board of Registrars Expenditures FY05 FY04 Payroll $135,194 $133,335 Expenses $ 7,551 $ 7,099 Elections Total $ 87,377 $ 85,798 Registration Total $ 23,836 $ 21,185 Records Management $ 4,125 $ 2,000 TOWN CLERK APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Donna Hooper since 1996. Office staff: Information Specialist Marlene Doyle, Municipal Clerks C. Jean Coates and Carmelina Fiore with Lori Manning as the new Administrative Assistant. BOARD OF REGISTRARS appointed for a 3 -year term by the Board of Selectmen: Chair Luanna Devenis [Republican, 2008], Ann Miller [Republican, 2007], Gerald Abegg [Democrat, 2006], and Town Clerk Donna Hooper [Unenrolled] . The vacancy created by the sudden death of long- serving Registrar Mary Abegg, in November 2004, was filled by the appointment of Gerald Abegg to a term expiring 2006. HIGHLIGHTS • Registrars forwarded recommendations to the Board of Selectmen for the Board's annual Election Officer appoint- ments. Registrars staffed voter registration sessions prior to the March Annual Town Election, and certified signatures for nine different initiative petitions for questions to appear on the November 2006 State Election ballot which includ- ed 1602 pages received with 5033 signatures certified. Annual Town Election candidate papers were certified for 11 candidates seeking major office and 39 Town Meeting Member candidates. • The Town's annual census updated Lexington's popula- tion and verified voter registration rolls, with the Annual List of Residents subsequently published in June. • The Annual Town Meeting, covering 38 warrant articles and 8 meetings, was convened on March 28 in Cary Hall, Cary Memorial Building after a 4 -year hiatus due to the Cary Library's occupa- tion of the hall during library reconstruction. The meeting was dissolved May 2, 2005. • The `light' election year, with only the March Annual Town Election, was much welcomed after a particularly busy 2004 during which five elec- tions were conducted during the span of 8 months. The polls for Precincts 1 & 5 were relo- cated to Cary Hall due to school construction issues at Harrington and Fiske Schools. • A fall Special Town Meeting, with six warrant arti- cles was convened on November 7. Although four sessions were held, articles were voted upon at the first and last session due to the natural gas disaster from the Hancock Avenue house explosion that precluded a quorum of members from gathering on the sec- ond and third evenings. Rezoning of the property at 1720 Massachusetts Avenue (currently Battle Green Inn) from CB to CD and school budget issues were the highlight of the Special Town Meeting. • The Libertarian and Green - Rainbow parties lost their sta- tus as an official Massachusetts political party in 2005. This action will result in ballots for only the Democrat and Republic parties for the 2006 State Primary. • Passage of Chapter 388 of the Acts of 2004 took effect January 28 and eliminated the need for couples filing mar- riage intentions to submit medical certificates (blood tests) as a prerequisite to obtaining a marriage license. • Published Supplement #5 to the Code of Lexington, updating bylaw changes adopted at the 2005 Annual Town Meeting, and regulatory updates. • Enhancements to the Commonwealth's Central Voter Registry provided further improvements in preparation for full implementation of the Help American Vote Act of 2002. Changes implemented include electronic verifica- tion of voter identification provided at the time of voter registration, vastly reducing the number of persons required to show proof of identification at the polls. Testing of voting equipment for vision and hearing impaired voters was conducted in the fall for implementa- tion with the 2006 State Election. • The Town Clerk's Office oversaw appointment notifica- tions; oaths of office, and the posting of approximately 1000 public meetings conducted for appointed and elect- ed boards and committee members. — To better guide and protect volunteer and appointed residents participating in greater numbers as volunteers to town boards and committees, enhancements have been made to materials provided to committee mem- bers regarding statutory responsibilities and guidelines. continued on next page L -R: Jean Coates, Donna Hooper, Carmelina Fiore, Marlene Doyle, Lori Manning. Page 10 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington 6uipg2± S pima :01-0gd Town Clerk /Board of Registrars continued from previous page • Town Clerk's office continued servicing the community as agents for the US Department of State, accepting and pro- cessing over 800 applications for US Passports. • Archives and Records Manager /Town Clerk Donna Hooper, and representatives of the Lexington Historical Society, National Heritage Museum and Cary Memorial Library, continued collaborating in follow -up to the MHRAB grant "The Revolution and Beyond: Documenting Lexington's Heritage." The September exhibit, at the newly restored Depot Building, "From Cambridge Farms to Farms of Lexington" documented Lexington's farming heritage. Moderator ROLE: To preside over Town Meeting and appoint members of the Appropriation Committee, Capital Expenditures Committee, the Cary Lecture Series as well as Lexington's representative on the Minuteman Regional School Committee. ELECTED by the voters at large for a 1 -year term: Margery Battin. HIGHLIGHTS: • Worked with Town Meeting members, boards, and committees to improve the Town Meeting process. The quality of Lexington's citizen participation is unparalleled; the dedication of its staff unequaled. Patience and a sense of humor prevailed. • Continued the following practices: — Held a pre -Town Meeting planning session with article sponsors, Town Counsel, Town Clerk, and Finance Committee Chairs to review timing and procedural matters, and anticipate scheduling dif- ficulties, audio - visual requirements, probable amendments, and potential areas of disagreement. — Held a 2 -hour workshop for new Town Meeting members, Town Counsel, Appropriation, Capital Expenditures, Planning Board, and Town Meeting Members Association chairs to answer questions, clarify financial and planning terms and concepts, and explain legal issues and parlia- mentary procedures. • Sent written instructions to the sponsors of citizen articles to aid them in preparing for Town Meeting. • Wrote a newspaper article explaining the protocol regarding citizen participation. • Held a post -Town Meeting critique which identified measures for improving procedures and developing a process to help citizen warrant article sponsors pre- pare and present their proposals to Town Meeting. • Served as a Director of the Massachusetts Moderators Association. Statistics Population: 30,765 Vital Statistics for 2005: Births 183 Marriages 100 Deaths 298 Licenses: Dogs 2044 Raffles 16 Business Certificates ...215 Flammables 34 Elected Town Officials Term Expires BOARD OF SELECTMEN (five members to 3 -year terms) Jeanne K. Krieger, Chair 44 Webster Road .... 2007 Norman P. Cohen 33 Forest Street #309 . 2008 Peter C. J. Kelley 24 Forest Street 2006 Hank Manz 14 Ellison Road 2008 Richard Pagett 10 Oakmount Circle. . 2007 SCHOOL COMMITTEE (five members to 3 -year terms) Thomas V. Griffiths, Chair 7 Volunteer Way 2008 Scott F. Burson 58 Sherburne Road S.. 2006 Helen L. Cohen 32 Patterson Road ... 2006 Thomas R. Diaz 10 Tower Road 2007 Olga P. Guttag 273 Emerson Road ... 2007 MODERATOR (1 -year term) Margery M. Battin 15 Paul Revere Road . 2006 PLANNING BOARD (five members to 3 -year terms) Anthony G. Galaitsis 7 Burroughs Road ... 2008 Richard Canale 29 Shade Street 2006 Thomas M. Harden 32 Hill Street 2006 Charles Hornig 75 Reed Street 2008 Wendy Manz 14 Ellison Road 2007 LEXINGTON HOUSING AUTHORITY (four elected members and one appointed member to 5 -year terms) Nicholas Santosuosso, Chair 2 Washington Street ... 2006 Robert N. Cohen, Vice Chair 10Grassland Street .... 2007 Leona W. Martin, Asst. Treasurer . 19 Thoreau Road 2007 Leo P. McSweeney, Commissioner. . 435 Lincoln Street 2010 Melinda M. Walker, Treasurer 14 Larchmont Lane ... 2009 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 11 Town Election - Monday, March 7, 2005 Of the 20,280 registered voters, 7575 or 37% of those eligible cast their vote. BOARD OF SELECTMEN (two for 3 years) Norman Cohen' 4277 Hank Manz' 3368 Dawn McKenna 2358 Patrick Mehr 1892 William Kennedy 1757 Write -Ins 9 Blanks 1489 MODERATOR (one for 1 year) Margery Bastin' 4816 Write -Ins 35 Blanks 2722 SCHOOL COMMITTEE (one for 3 years) Thomas Griffiths' 4566 Iang Jeon 2328 Write -Ins 9 Blanks 671 PLANNING BOARD (two for 3 years) Anthony Galaitsis3 3693 Charles Hornig' 3196 Write -Ins 20 Blanks 8240 HOUSING AUTHORITY (one for 5 years) Leo P. Mcsweeney5 4674 Write -Ins 31 Blanks 2871 TOWN MEETING - PRECINCT 1 (seven for 3 years) Nancy Adler' 362 Ellen Basch' 358 Mary Bowes' 336 John Bartenstein3 325 Albert Zabin3 321 James Barry' 316 John Frossi3 312 Temple Goodhue 258 All Others 6 Blanks 2222 TOWN MEETING - PRECINCT 2 (seven for 3 years) Jill Stein' 540 Robin Digiammarino3 395 Judith Boxer' 353 Christina Welch' 336 Robert Cunha' 314 Daniel Lucas' 305 Paul Lapointe' 283 John Sackton 264 William Smith 264 Kenneth Kreutziger 253 Robert Warshawer 203 John Mullen III 191 Steven Kropper 168 All Others 3 Blanks 2610 TOWN MEETING - PRECINCT 3 (seven for 3 years; one for 1 year) Dan Fenn, Jr. ' 414 Robert Whitman' 340 Arthur Katz' 337 Gloria Holland' 328 Nicholas Cannalonga3 299 Steven Heinrich' 277 Bonnie Brodner3 251 Robert Copp"' 182 John Sellars" 182 Thomas Lutz 131 All Others 6 Blanks 2701 TOWN MEETING - PRECINCT 4 (seven for 3 years) Lisa Baci3 448 Beverly Kelley' 423 Ruth Thomas' 420 Steven Turner' 418 John Davies' 407 Timothy Counihan' 404 Nicholas Santosuosso' 403 Martha Daileanes- Sevigny'" 368 Laura Kole 101 All Others 7 Blanks 3161 TOWN MEETING - PRECINCT 5 (seven for 3 years) David Williams' 388 Anthony Galaitsis3 387 Marjorie Daggett' 374 Ephraim Weiss' 373 Paul Barnes' 371 John Hayward' 333 Loretta Porter' 295 Jeffrey Crampton 293 All Others 7 Blanks 2898 TOWN MEETING - PRECINCT 6 (seven for 3 years; one for 2 years) David Kaufman' 573 Marshall Derby' 555 Morton Kahan' 540 Gerald Lacey' 540 Jonathan Himmel' 516 Laura Mahoney' 514 Ronald Pawliczek3 477 Dawn McKenna' 422 Peter Cohen 80 Susan Solomon 44 All Others 12 Blanks 3599 TOWN MEETING - PRECINCT 7 (seven for 3 years) Thomas Griffiths' 599 Ravinder Sakhuja3 561 Deborah Brown' 556 Martha Wood' 505 Pam Hoffman' 468 James Courtemanche3 361 John Taylor" ' 331 Robert Peters"'' 331 Sean Maloney 318 All Others 7 Blanks 2480 TOWN MEETING - PRECINCT 8 (seven for 3 years; one for 1 year) Stewart Kennedy' 409 Margaret Bradley' 407 Roger Borghesani3 399 Richard Michelson' 398 Charles Hornig' 386 Charles Moore, Jr. ' 317 James Osten' 303 Anne Frymer' 289 Florence Connor 267 Richard Baughman 219 Lorraine Fournier 214 Linda Moran 203 James Hart 172 All Others 2 Blanks 2951 TOWN MEETING - PRECINCT 9 (seven for 3 years) Wendy Manz' 430 Leo McSweeney' 422 Janice Kennedy' 375 Alice Adler' 322 John Mazerall3 291 Emily Donovan' 273 Mary Donahue' 253 Francine Stieglitz" ' ' ' ' 243 Dorris Traficante 211 Richard Schaye 195 Michael Schroeder 170 All Others 7 Blanks 2009 " Due to tie vote, a special election deter- mined who was to serve the 1 -year term. ""A Precinct 4 vacancy occurred when Norman Cohen was elected Selectman. It was filled for 1 -year by Martha Daileanes- Sevigny, 85 Kendall Road, who received the highest number of votes as a defeated candidate for Town Meeting from Precinct 4. " John Taylor removed his name from a special run -off election. `"""A Precinct 9 vacancy occurred when Hank Manz was elected Selectman. It was filled for 1 -year by Francine Stieglitz, 3 Amherst Street, who received the highest number of votes as a defeated candidate for Town Meeting from Precinct 9. 'elected for 1 year 'elected for 3 years 'elected for 2 years Selected for 5 years Page 12 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Town Meeting Members AT LARGE Margery Battin 15 Paul Revere Road Norman Cohen 33 Forest Street Donna Hooper 47 Emerson Gardens Jay Kaufman 1 Childs Road Peter Kelley 24 Forest Street Jeanne Krieger 44 Webster Road William Lahey 22 Fair Oaks Drive Hank Manz 14 Ellison Road Richard Pagett 10 Oakmount Circle PRECINCT 1 Term Expires 2006 Joel Adler 22 Village Circle Jean Cole 23 Whipple Road Maria -Elena Kostorizos 20 Wheeler Road Janet Moran 41 Bartlett Avenue Loretta Moresco 1025 Massachusetts Avenue Diane Pursley 49 Cliffe Avenue Judith Zabin 1 Page Road Term Expires 2007 John Breen 8 Crescent Hill Avenue Jonathan Cole 23 Whipple Road Iang Jeon 7 Litchfield Road Lillian MacArthur 42 Emerson Gardens Eric Michelson 16 Emerson Gardens Carol Sampson 8 Brandon Street Barry Sampson 8 Brandon Street Term Expires 2008 Nancy Adler 22 Village Circle James Barry 10 Crescent Hill Avenue John Bartenstein 46 Sanderson Road Ellen Basch 2 South Rindge Avenue Mary Bowes 32 Arcola Street John Rossi 40 Arcola Street Albert Zabin 1 Page Road PRECINCT 2 Term Expires 2006 J. Eugene Beauchemin 10 Aerial Street Marian Cohen 8 Plymouth Road Douglas Lucente 8 Great Rock Road Michael O'Sullivan 12 Aerial Street Thomas Taylor 64 Marrett Road James Wilson 43 Locust Avenue Donald Wilson 36 Fern Street Term Expires 2007 Alessandro Alessandrini 488 Massachusetts Avenue James Avery 8 Daniels Street Thomas Diaz 10 Tower Road Karen Dooks 5 Mohawk Drive Andrew McAleer 121 Follen Road Barry Orenstein 132 Follen Road Betsey Weiss 8 Dover Lane Term Expires 2008 Judith Boxer 33 Philip Road Robert Cunha 10 Stevens Road Robin DiGiammarino 2 Sunset Ridge Paul Lapointe 224 Follen Road Daniel Lucas 3 Tower Road Jill Stein 17 Trotting Horse Drive Christina Welch 41 Locust Avenue PRECINCT 3 Term Expires 2006 Darwin Adams 8 Field Road Samuel Berman 11 Barberry Road Nancy Bryant 56 Blossomcrest Road Robert Copp 95 Bridge Street Richard Neumeier 2 Pitcairn P1 Robert Rotberg 14 Barberry Road Reid Zurlo 42 Woodcliffe Road Term Expires 2007 Nancy Cannalonga 942 Waltham Street Benjamin Cohen 87 Bridge Street Sherry Gordon 7 Stedman Road Patrick Mehr 31 Woodcliffe Road Alexander Nedzel 4 Chadbourne Road Richard Stephenson 98 Spring Street Loren Wood 14 Benjamin Road Term Expires 2008 Bonnie Brodner 8 Trodden Path Nicholas Cannalonga 942 Waltham Street Dan Fenn, Jr. 59 Potter Pond Steven Heinrich 11 Potter Pond Gloria Holland 3 April Lane Arthur Katz 18 Barberry Road Robert Whitman 1010 Waltham Street continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 13 Town Meeting Members continued from previous page PRECINCT 4 Term Expires 2006 Gloria Bloom 17 Loring Road Stacey Cannon 17 Baskin Road Martha Daileanes - Sevigny 85 Kendall Road Peter Enrich 35 Clarke Street David Harris 5 A Eliot Road Michael Martignetti 17 Highland Avenue Ellen McDonald 50 Bridge Street Barrie Peltz 8 Jackson Court Term Expires 2007 Nyles Barnert 142 Worthen Road Scott Burson 58 Sherburne Road S. Charles Lamb 55 Baskin Road John Rosenberg 64 Bloomfield Street Sandra Shaw 51 Wachusett Drive Judith Uhrig 15 Vine Brook Road Term Expires 2008 Lisa Baci 18 Fair Oaks Terrace Timothy Counihan 27 Percy Road John Davies 18 Prospect Hill Road Beverly Kelley 24 Forest Street Nicholas Santosuosso 2 Washington Street Ruth Thomas 10 Parker Street Steven Turner 260 Marrett Road PRECINCT 5 Term Expires 2006 David Burns 46 Ridge Road Todd Cataldo 8 Fletcher Avenue Elaine Dratch 2 Maureen Road Olga Guttag 273 Emerson Road Gerard Moloney 18 Saddle Club Road James Shaw 20 Vine Street Sam Silverman 18 Ingleside Road Term Expires 2007 Irene Dondley 22 Leonard Road Andrew Friedlich 22 Young Street Paul Hamburger 18 Cooke Road Carol Liff 19 Douglas Road Jerold Michelson 3 Clyde P1 M. Masha Traber 106 Maple Street Charles Vail 66 Woburn Street Term Expires 2008 Paul Barnes 500 Lowell Street Marjorie Daggett 9 Burroughs Road Anthony Galaitsis 7 Burroughs Road John Hayward 358 Woburn Street Loretta Porter 24 Fletcher Avenue Ephraim Weiss 462 Lowell Street David Williams 1433 Massachusetts Avenue PRECINCT 6 Term Expires 2006 Eric Carlson 186 Grant Street Bebe Fallick 4 Diehl Road Edmund Grant 27 Grove Street Jane Pagett 10 Oakmount Circle Edith Sandy 353 N Emerson Road Sheldon Spector 26 Suzanne Road Sheila Watson 12 Oakland Street Term Expires 2007 Florence Baturin 11 Alcott Road Paul Chernick 14 Somerset Road Trisha Kennealy 4 Brent Road Alan Lazarus 22 Woodland Road Dawn McKenna 9 Hancock Street Frank Sandy 353 N Emerson Road Deborah Strod 10 Thoreau Road Term Expires 2008 Marshall Derby 23 Suzanne Road Jonathan Himmel 66 Hancock Street Morton Kahan 44 Hancock Street David Kaufman 152 Burlington Street Gerald Lacey 18 Meriam Street Laura Mahoney 119 Burlington Street Ronald Pawliczek 25 Flintlock Road PRECINCT 7 Term Expires 2006 Marsha Baker 46 Burlington Street Steven Colman 63 Fifer Lane Robert Coyne 2 Heritage Drive Ann Gilbert 323 Bedford Street Fred Martin 29 Dewey Road James Wood, Jr. 51 Gleason Road Alan Wrigley 205 Grove Street continued on next page Page 14 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Town Meeting Members continued from previous page Term Expires 2007 George Burnell 4 Eaton Road Patricia Costello 9 Preston Road Margaret Count -Klebe 94 Winter Street Catherine Gill 43 Bertwell Road Sheryl Mason 33 Robinson Road Joyce Miller 23 Fifer Lane Jane Trudeau 7 Volunteer Way Term Expires 2008 Deborah Brown 47 Robinson Road James Courtemanche 88 Winter Street Thomas Griffiths 7 Volunteer Way Pam Hoffman 4 Rangeway Robert Peters 43 Fifer Lane Ravinder Sakhuja 50 Turning Mill Road Martha Wood 51 Gleason Road PRECINCT 8 Term Expires 2006 Richard Battin 15 Paul Revere Road Larry Belvin 10 Denver Street Anne Frymer 64 Asbury Street Ingrid Klimoff 75 Reed Street Robert Phelan 152 Reed Street Shirley Stolz 2139 Massachusetts Avenue Carolyn Tiffany 109 Reed Street Term Expires 2007 Elizabeth Bryant 18 Liberty Avenue John Cunha 11 Homestead Street Diana Garcia 3 Gerard Terrace Thomas Harden 32 Hill Street David Horton 68 Paul Revere Road Alan Levine 54 Reed Street Melinda Walker 14 Larchmont Lane Term Expires 2008 Roger Borghesani 24 Hastings Road Margaret Bradley 48 Bellflower Street Charles Hornig 75 Reed Street Stewart Kennedy 38 Liberty Avenue Richard Michelson 54 Asbury Street Charles Moore, Jr. 87 Cedar Street James Osten 8 Revere Street PRECINCT 9 Term Expires 2006 Narain Bhatia 8 Nickerson Road Richard Canale 29 Shade Street Helen Cohen 32 Patterson Road Susan Elberger 10 Ellison Road Janet Perry 16 Ellison Road Janet Post 33 Fairbanks Road Fred Rosenberg 76 Wood Street Francine Stieglitz 3 Amherst Street Term Expires 2007 Victoria Blier 41 Shade Street Anthony Close 174 Wood Street Rodney Cole 80 School Street Margaret Coppe 12 Barrymeade Drive Thomas Fenn 15 Shade Street Anne LoRusso 200 Lincoln Street Term Expires 2008 Alice Adler 10 Nickerson Road Mary Donahue 3 Crosby Road Emily Donovan 110 Wood Street Janice Kennedy 135 Wood Street Wendy Manz 14 Ellison Road John Mazerall 40 Wood Street Leo McSweeney 435 Lincoln Street 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 15 Town Meeting Members Association (TMMA) ROLE: To inform Town Meeting Members in advance on all war- rant articles, meeting procedures, and matters of town governance; to act as an interface between Town Meeting and the municipal government, the Board of Selectmen, School Committee, and other town committees; to represent the members of Town Meeting when the Meeting is not in session; and to improve Town Meeting procedures and process- es. MEMBERSHIP: All Town Meeting Members are automati- cally members of the Association. At the first information meeting, precincts meet individually and elect their Precinct Chair, Clerk and Vice Chair officers. Those precinct officers become the TMMA Executive Committee which serves for one year. TMMA officers are elected by the members at the annual meeting of the Association and are limited to terms of no more than two consecutive years. The Executive Committee meets the second Wednesday of each month, except when Town Meeting is in session or in July and August. The monthly meetings are open to all. HIGHLIGHTS • Reviewed and discussed: — Financial summit meetings on the 2006 budget — Budget projections for FY07 — Ongoing issues pertaining to Hanscom Field — The Town's handling of outside groups protesting in the community — Current issues with the new Town Manager • Published TMMA Warrant Information Reports on all articles coming before Town Meeting so Town Meeting members can better understand the issues. • Held the TMMA bus tour to view sites with zoning issues coming before Town Meeting and to see major capital items to be voted on at Town Meeting. 2005 -2006 Executive Committee Officers Chair: Vice - Chair: Treasurer: Clerk: Communications: Gloria Bloom David Horton Andy Friedlich Darwin Adams David Kaufman Prct. Chair 1 Joel Adler 2 Alessandro Alessandrini 3 Reid Zurlo 4 Steve Turner 5 Eph Weiss 6 Alan Lazarus 7 Marsha Baker 8 Melinda Walker 9 Vicki Blier Clerk Jonathan Cole Judy Boxer Arthur Katz Stacey Cannon Sam Silverman Laura Mahoney Pam Hoffman Charles Moore, Jr. Anne LoRusso Associate Mary Bowes Barry Orenstein Patrick Mehr Martha Daileanes - Sevigny Jerold Michelson Sheldon Spector James Courtemanche Anne Frymer Francine Stieglitz • Sponsored three warrant information sessions prior to Town Meeting and one session prior to Special Town Meeting to familiarize members with the warrant and to give sponsors feedback on likely questions and additional information needed concerning their articles. • Provided timely information on the TMMA website (www.lexingtontmma.org) and had articles in the Lexington Minuteman on various topics. The Communications Working Group will continue to seek ways to improve information flow about matters which may come before Town Meeting and about how town government works. • Recognized the contributions of 17 town meeting mem- bers who have served in Town Meeting for 30 or more years. • Given the concern expressed by abutters, the TMMA Executive Committee approved a statement which was made at a Burlington Planning Board meeting regarding proposed changes at the Perkins gravel site. Page 16 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Health Benefits Review Committee ROLE: To review and analyze health benefits provided by the Town of Lexington, compare the benefits to those pro- vided by other communities, and consider options to reduce costs and rates of cost growth. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Co- Chairs Richard Dougherty and Deborah Strod, Bob Beckwitt, Tom Goodwin, Nancy Meadows, Tom Rand, Linda Roemer and Bill Kennedy (initially Selectmen Liaison and now a com- mittee member). Maggie Oliva attended the initial meeting and was replaced by Claudia Sheffield. Selectman Liaison Hank Manz; Appropriation Committee Liaisons Paul Hamburger and Rick Eurich; School Committee Liaison Tom Griffiths; Personnel Advisory Board Liaison Evelyn Silber. Staff support Rose Ducharme and Susan Bottan. Initiated in fall 2004, the Committee met five times includ- ing with the Town's benefits consultant. Members analyzed a survey of 24 towns. An interim report was issued with a final report presented to the Selectmen, School and Appropriation Committees in September. The report was accepted, and the committee was dissolved by the Selectmen. The report is available on the town website. Findings • Health benefits have been quite well- managed by the Town over the years. As the Committee raised options it found that many had been tried previously, often in part- nership with the Coalition of Town Employees, the bar- gaining unit for health benefits. Claim costs are low rela- tive to other groups insured by Blue Cross /Blue Shield according to their own calculations. Despite these positive aspects, the Town has a problem of costs growing beyond its capacity to pay. • Benefits offered by the Town are better than those provid- ed by local industry and middle of the pack for compara- ble municipalities; however, employees may have foregone pay increases or accepted increases which were below mar- ket rates in order to maintain the current benefit levels. • In winter 2004, the health benefit cost to the Town was anticipated to be roughly $16 million this year, which included $500,000 for Stop Loss Insurance and $900,000 for administration by Blue Cross and Harvard Community Health Plan. Of that, the Town pays $13 million and employees pay $3 million. The Town is self - insured for individual claims under $90,000, which means that enough money has to be set aside to pay those claims. For claims over $90,000, the Town has Stop Loss Insurance. • Health benefits are governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 32B and are subject to collective bargain- ing, so implementing many of the recommendations requires a cooperative effort between the Town and employees. Under those laws, when a new employee is hired and scheduled to work 20 hours or more per week, he or she is eligible for benefits from the Town. Chapter 32B also requires that the Town cover retirees' benefits as well. Employment law also applies. Recommendations • Implement a carve -out pharmacy benefit program and increase incentives for generic and mail order drugs. If pharmacy benefits are managed separately from other medical benefits, a significant decrease in cost - growth, or even an actual cost savings, can be realized. Pharmacy benefit costs represent approximately 20% ($3 million) of benefits expenditures. • Strengthen claims and enrollment audits. • Begin providing Explanation of Benefits statements to enrollees as a first step in adding consumer - directed health care elements. • Premium cost - sharing and plan design changes (including exploring a separate plan for out of state retirees). • Expand health promotion locally. • Expand case- and disease - management. • Continue to re -bid services for competitive pricing. • Properly fund the Health Trust Fund (three months of claims) . • Explore cooperative health benefits purchasing (tried twice before, but worth revisiting). • Implement the General Accounting Standards Board rec- ommendations for accounting for and funding future retiree health care expenses. Other towns have begun to do this, and bond rating agencies have begun to use activ- ity on this front in their evaluations for bond ratings. • The Town and collective bargaining units negotiate wages with each unit separately, but health benefits for all units are collectively bargained. Legislation is under considera- tion that might allow towns to bargain wages and benefits together, as cities are able to do now. If such legislation is passed, the Town should consider whether it is more cost - effective to continue to provide richer benefits in lieu of salary increases during a period when medical inflation is higher than the general inflation rate. • Review implementation of the recommendations in this report regularly. L to R: Evelyn Silber, Tom Griffiths, Dougherty, Deborah Strod, Linda Roemer, Tom Goodwin, Richard Claudia Sheffield. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 17 0 0 bilage± S pinEa Town Meeting Mown Meeting was held in Cary Memorial Hall on March 28 and 30, April 4, 6, 11, 13 and 27 and May 2. The eight sessions took 20 hours. The Rev. Bill Clark offered the invocation. In the first session, the Lexington Minute Men and the William Diamond Jr. Fife and Drum Corps presented the colors. Moderator Margery Battin observed the passing of deceased Town Meeting Members Frank Kava, Louise Kava, and Renee Cochin. In subsequent sessions, Sasaki Associates reported on devel- opments concerning the closing of Hanscom Air Force Base; Public Works Director William Hadley announced that Robert Beaudoin had received a Merit Award from the Environmental Protection Agency; ten high school students were recognized for their achievements; high school science teacher David Colaruso received the Wagner Technology Award; Clark Middle School Principal Pamela Houlares and Diamond Middle School teacher Kathy Reynolds shared the Sharon Wong Chen /Sara Harrington Diversity Award. Article Action Summary Art. 1: Annual Town Election: see page 12 Art. 2: Reports of Boards, Officers, Committees Reports relating to articles under consideration and other town matters were presented at appropriate times. Art. 3: Appointments to Cary Lecture Series Adopted Mar. 28. Moderator to appoint committee of three to plan lectures under the wills of Eliza Cary Farnham and Suzanna E. Cary. Art. 4: Zoning Bylaw: Battle Green Inn Not adopted March 28. See Art. 2, November 7 Special Town Meeting. Art. 5: Zoning Bylaw, Center Parking Indefinitely postponed March 28. Art. 6: Restrict Parking in Central Business District Indefinitely postponed March 28. Art. 7: Community Preservation Act Adopted March 30. Acceptance of MGL c.44B §307 and approved a surcharge tax beginning in Fiscal 2007 on prop- erty for specified projects pending voter approval in next town election. Art. 8: Community Preservation Committee Adopted March 30. Amends bylaws to establish committee to administer provisions of Community Preservation Act. Art. 9: Zoning Bylaw: Waltham Street Parcel Adopted March 30. Changed designation to CD from RO on Parcel 11, property adjacent to Waltham city line. Art. 10: Zoning Bylaw, Accessory Apartments Adopted April 4. Amended portions of existing bylaws gov- erning accessory apartments. Art. 11: Amend Selectmen/ Town Manager Act Not adopted April 4. Pertaining to continuity in Town Manager functions should a vacancy occur in that position; and require Town Meeting approval of Selectmen's Town Manager appointments. Art. 12: Amend Selectmen /Town Manager Act Not adopted April 4. Pertaining to recall of elected town - wide officials. Art. 13: Removal and Installation of Double Utility Poles Adopted March 30. Resolution supporting legislation for authority to enforce C.164 of section 34B Art. 14: Municipal Lighting Plant Adopted March 30. Resolution urging support of legisla- tion and petitioning General Court to support municipal purchase of electrical assets to form municipal lighting plants. Art. 15: Property Tax Exemptions Adopted April 4. Acceptance of MGL c.59 §5, clause 41D and petitioning Legislature for special act to set higher qual- ifying income for property tax exemptions. Art. 16: Amend Tree Bylaw Adopted April 4. Amends General Bylaw to address Selectmen's Tree Gift Account Art. 17: Tree Planting Not adopted April 4. Pertaining to appropriating $15,000 for tree planting and maintenance. Art. 18: Tree Revolving Fund Adopted April 4. Established revolving fund to finance tree planting and maintenance. Art. 19: Conservation Land Transfer Adopted April 6. Transferred almost 25 acres of town - owned land off North Street to the Conservation Commission. Art. 20: Acquisition of Former County Land Indefinitely postponed April 6. Pertaining to acquisition of almost 47 acres of undeveloped land formerly owned by Middlesex County Hospital. continued on next page Page 18 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Town Meeting continued from previous page Art. 21: Resolution Regarding: Middlesex County Open Space Adopted March 28. Resolution to petition the Legislature to keep as open space a plot of former Middlesex Hospital land located in Lexington. Art. 22: Fast Track Auction Law Adopted March 30. Resolution by which the Town to reg- ister opposition to law permitting State to sell land in Town on a "fast track auction" basis thus limiting Town's input. Art. 23: Franklin School Apartments Indefinitely postponed April 27. Pertaining to modifying original agreement to have former school land adopted to housing. Art. 24: Water Distribution Improvements Indefinitely postponed April 6. Pertaining to financing water line installation and repairs, with Water Enterprise Funds. Art. 25: Sanitary Sewer Improvements Indefinitely postponed April 6. Art. 26: Recreational Facilities Improvements Adopted April 11. For Rindge Playground and Center Recreational Complex: $30,000 transferred from Recreational Enterprise Fund, $35,000 borrowed. Art. 27: Lincoln Park Facility Indefinitely postponed April 11. Pertaining to building restrooms at Lincoln Park. Art. 28: Pine Meadows Golf Course Adopted April 11. To complete hydrology study; $50,000 from Recreation Enterprise Fund. Art. 29: Supplementary Appropriations for Previously Authorized Capital Improvements Adopted May 2. (a) For repairs to town buildings under Building Envelope Program, Art. 8, 2001 Town Meeting; $83,000 from tax levy. (b) For repairs to town buildings under Building Envelope Program, Art. 8, 2002 Town Meeting; $165,000 borrowed. (c) For repairs to school buildings, Art. 21, 2004 Town Meeting, $125,000 borrowed. (d) For two new elementary schools, under Art. 5, 2002 Special Town Meeting, $1,575,000 borrowed. Art. 30: School Capital Projects /Equipment Adopted May 2. (a) For repairs and equipment $355,000 from tax levy, $745,000 borrowed. (b) For construction /reconstruction plans of School Administration Building. Borrowed. Amended to include Resolution involving potential Historic Districts Commission actions on the site. $1,100,000 $240,000 Art. 31: Maintain /Upgrade School Technology $270,000 Adopted May 2. With $115,000 from tax levy; $155,000 borrowed. Art. 32: Capital Projects and Equipment Adopted April 27. (a) Building Envelope Repairs to various town buildings; $100,000 borrowed, $50,000 from tax levy. (b) Street Reconstruction $460,000 from Highway Notes, $500,000 from tax levy. (c) Traffic Signal Improvements Borrowed. (d) Sidewalk Reconstruction Borrowed. (e) DPW Equipment Borrowed. (f) Design New DPW Barn on Bedford Street Borrowed. (g) Fire Rescue Vehicle Borrowed. (h) Study Public Safety Communications From tax levy. Art. 33: Traffic Control Signals Upgrade Indefinitely postponed April 11. Art. 34: Prior Years Unpaid Bills Indefinitely postponed April 11. $150,000 $960,000 $100,000 $50,000 $485,000 $720,000 $165,000 $50,000 Art. 35: Supplementary Appropriations for Current Fiscal Year 2005 Adopted May 2. Transferred $150,000 to Line Item 2310 Reserve Fund from Unreserved Fund Balance. Art. 36: Stabilization Fund Adopted May 2. Appropriated for capital expenditures; from tax levy. $603,647 c0nt nn d on noxt pa 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 19 Town Meeting continued from previous page Art. 37: Operating Budget Adopted April 13. Provides monies for all town depart- ments. Amounts to be raised from the tax levy except as noted. Numbers in the left hand column refer to line items. EDUCATION 1100 Lexington Public Schools $69,567,568 Also see Art. 29 (c) and (d); Art. 30 (a) and (b); Art. 31. 1200 Minuteman Regional School $887,667 EMPLOYEE BENEFITS 2110 Contributory Retirement $3,284,215 With $65,762 transferred from Water Enterprise Fund, $16,441 from Sewer Enterprise Fund. Non - Contributory Retirement $68,000 Insurance $5,256,245 With $96,349 transferred fromWater Enterprise Fund, $22,000 from Sewer Enterprise Fund. 2120 2130- 2150 DEBT SERVICE 2210 Payment on Funded Debt 2220 Interest on Funded Debt 2230 Temporary Borrowing 2240 Exempt Debt With $100,000 transferred from Recreation Enterprise Fund. OPERATING ARTICLES 2310 Reserve Fund 2320 Salary Adjustments With $11,018 transferred from Water Enterprise Fund, $11,018 from Sewer Fund. ORGANIZATIONAL EXPENSES $2,760,000 $450,750 $280,000 $5,043,313 2410 Municipal Personnel 2410 Municipal Expenses 2420 Wide Area Network 2430 Community Access Personnel Transferred from anticipated receipts in Cable Access Revolving Fund. 2430 Community Access Expenses Transferred from anticipated receipts in Cable Access Revolving Fund. $150,000 $417,780 $33,976 $97,400 $5,000 $45,000 $355,000 COMMUNITY SERVICES 3100- 3500 3600 3600 DPW Personnel With $262,613 transferred from Water Enterprise Fund, $262,613 from Sewer Enterprise Fund, $100,000 from Cemetery Trust Funds, $75,000 from Recreation Enterprise Fund, $47,014 from Parking Meter Fund. DPW Expenses With $191,001 transferred from Water Enterprise Fund, $191,001 from Sewer Enterprise Fund, $88,626 from Parking Meter Fund. An additional $94,854 from anticipated receipts from DPW Revolving Fund. Transportation Personnel Transportation Expenses With $18,000 from Transportation Demand Mgt Accts, $23,143 from Lexpress Special Revenue Acct., $60,000 from LexPress fares, and $80,000 from Mass. Bay Transportion Authority grants $2,982,243 $4,434,930 $67,040 $420,527 2110 Contributory Retirement $3,015,532 3700 Water Department $6,369,973 Transfer from Water Enterprise Acct. 3800 Sewer Department $7,335,787 Transfer from Sewer Enterprise Acct. PUBLIC SAFETY 4100 Police Personnel $3,974,171 With $164,373 transferred from Parking Meter Fund. 4100 Police Expenses $428,547 With $22,000 transferred from Parking Meter Fund. 4200 Fire Department Personnel $3,708,450 4200 Fire Department Expenses $426,393 CULTURE AND RECREATION 5100 5100 5200 Library Personnel Library Expenses Recreation Department Transferred from Recreation Enterprise Fund. SOCIAL SERVICES 6000 6000 Social Service Personnel Social Service Expenses With $7,000 from grants. $1,487,209 $304,753 $1,481,257 $319,733 $238,430 continued on next page Page 20 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Town Meeting continued from previous page COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 7100 7100 7200 7200 7300 7300 Community Dev. Personnel $621,432 Community Dev. Expenses $58,812 Planning Personnel $187,207 Planning Expenses $8,450 Economic Dev. Personnel $35,432 Economic Dev. Expenses $89,689 Transfer from anticipated receipts from Liberty Ride Program Revolving Fund. GENERAL GOVERNMENT 8110 Selectmen Personnel $62,681 With $2,357 transferred from Water Enterprise Fund, $2,357 from Sewer Enterprise Fund. 8110 Selectmen Expenses $69,150 8120 Legal Fees and Expenses $350,000 8130 Town Report $6,500 8200 Town Manager Personnel $352,640 With $34,559 transferred from Water Enterprise Fund, $34,559 from Sewer Enterprise Fund. 8200 Town Manager Expenses $14,667 TOWN COMMITTEES 8310 Appropriation Committee Expenses 8320 Misc. Boards /Committees 8330 Public Celebrations FINANCE 8400 Finance Personnel 8400 Finance Expenses TOWN CLERK 8500 Town Clerk Personnel 8500 Town Clerk Expenses MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SERVICES 8600 MIS Personnel With $28,064 transferred from Water Enterprise Fund, $28,064 from sewer Enterprise Fund. 8600 MIS Expenses Art. 38: Use of Funds to Reduce Tax Rate Indefinitely postponed May 2. $1,500 $8,755 $25,000 $840,011 $226,700 $208,017 $52,025 $177,637 $204,254 Special Town Meeting The 2005 Special Town Meeting held its first session November 7 in Cary Memorial Hall. Two subsequent meet- ings on November 9 and 10 were adjourned due to the gas explosion emergency; the second and final session was held November 14. Art. 2: Zoning Bylaw, Battle Green Inn Adopted November 7. Amended designation at 1720 Massachusetts Avenue to CD from CB. Art. 3: Use of Driveway Adopted November 14. Granted permanent easement for use of a driveway at 1888 Massachusetts Avenue. Art. 4: Prior Year's Unpaid Bills Adopted November 14. For unpaid bills rendered to School Department in FY05. Transfer from Unreserved Fund Balance. $528,178 Art. 5: Supplementary Appropriations Adopted November 14. (a) For current year's school budget with $57,000 transfer from line item 1200 Minuteman Regional School; $434,287 from Unreserved Fund; and $356,109 from tax levy. (b) To reduce tax levy for FY beginning July 1, 2005; transfer from Overlay Surplus. Art. 6: School Projects and Equipment Indefinitely postponed November 14. $847,396 $425,000 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 21 PUBLIC SAFETY Police Department Expenditures Payroll FY05 FY04 Police $3,408,371 2,940,441 Dispatch $408,807 $384,508 Parking Meter Maintenance $32,494 $34,321 Expenses Police $392,038 375,675 Dispatch $24,723 $25,017 Parking Meter Maintenance $21,930 $22,801 Personnel Full Time Police 47 44 Dispatch 8 7 Parking Meter Maintenance 1 1 Part Time Police 3 0 APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Christopher Casey Chief of Department since 1993. Promotions and Personnel Changes Retiring this year were Captain Robert Raposa who served 34 -1/2 years, Sergeant William Kelly who served 35 years, many as Police Prosecutor, and Officer Don Barter who served 19 years. Dispatcher Jonathan Hoag resigned after 10 years and joined the Army JAG. Newly hired personnel include: Patrol Officer Aderline Bynoe, Dispatchers Michael Sowle, Erica Fullerton and Thomas Duggan. The most dramatic change in department history came with promotions of 8 to new command positions - Mark Corr to Captain of Administration, Joseph O'Leary to Detective Lieutenant, Manuel Ferro and James Barry to Lieutenant assigned to the Patrol Division; Edward O'Brien, John Mazerall, Paul Callahan and Christopher Barry were pro- moted to Sergeant with Sgt. Barry assuming the position of police prosecutor. In September, James Rettman was assigned as the School Resource Officer at Lexington High School. Unique Challenges School threats, hate groups and political protests challenged the Department's ability to anticipate issues, build partner- ships with the community, and solve problems that thrust Lexington repeatedly into the media spotlight. In April, threatening graffiti was found at both Lexington and Minuteman Regional High Schools. Working closely with school officials, the investigation continued into the early morning hours, the threats were assessed, and police pres- ence was provided to each school for several days to calm fears. In May, a radical Arkansas -based white supremacists' group planned to meet on the Battle Green. In cooperation with the No Place for Hate Steering Committee, the com- munity was drawn together to discuss the visit and plan a community -wide response. Only days later, officers were dispatched to the Estabrook School and arrested a parent for trespassing. This incident sparked a series of rallies over several months and focused media attention on Lexington. At this same time, a Kansas - based group chose Lexington to demonstrate their values at churches and the LHS graduation. Once again, the Department reached out to community and helped organize a peaceful and dignified silent response in the presence of vulgar and antagonistic slogans. Protests continued into the fall with a demonstration at a local temple during the visit of the Israeli Consul General. On this day, one person was arrested for assaulting an officer. Given the volatility and the level of emotion with these events, the Department was proud in the success of the police- community partnership that respected first amend- ment rights while also maintaining community pride. NIMS and the KeySpan Incident In September and October, all police personnel were trained in the National Incident Management System (NIMS), a requirement for future Homeland Security grants. This train- ing focused on interoperability of multiple agencies and the response to a large -scale incident using a unified chain of command. A month later, the training was put to the test. On Wednesday, November 9 at 11:19 a.m., the 9 -1 -1 Center received the first of several calls reporting a strong odor of gas, followed moments later with calls of a house explosion. Police and fire units were quickly dispatched to the scene at 3 Hancock Avenue and within several minutes a command post was established and NIMS protocols were being put to use. Managing the over - pressurization of gas lines in a large segment of Lexington quickly exhausted local resources. Mutual aid from neighboring communities was needed to secure hundreds of homes as well as direct traffic around dozens of emergency excavation sites. For two weeks, town officials and employees from every department worked with KeySpan, various local and regional agencies to ensure that gas - related hazards were eliminated. One of the most diffi- cult tasks was entering the homes and businesses of approx- imately 1400 gas customers with police, locksmiths and KeySpan personnel. With temperatures dropping to near freezing, it was necessary to provide residents temporary shelter, answer thousands of telephone calls in the emer- gency dispatch center, while also providing regular updates through the local media. With only two minor injuries suf- fered during the emergency, this incident demonstrated the best collaborative efforts of the community and the dedica- tion and resourcefulness of town employees. continued on next page Page 22 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Police Department continued from previous page Programs & Initiatives For three days in June, the Lexington and Bedford Police Departments hosted a training seminar on racial profiling and law enforcement. All personnel were assigned to attend an 8 -hour class presented by the Simon Wiesenthal Center for Racial Tolerance. In September, the Department's sex offender notification plan was used for the first time with a Level 3 (high risk) sex offender residing in Lexington. Under Massachusetts Law, such offenders require the Town to publicly post flyers while also notifying at -risk groups and organizations. In October, an Open House was hosted with a number of spe- cial activities including a Bicycle Safety Rodeo. Residents toured the inner workings of the police station while partici- pants in the Rodeo practiced safe riding techniques. This year the police station was posted as a drop center for newborn infants under the Safe Haven Law. This law gives parents an alternative to abandoning a newborn child; by bringing the infant safely to the police station, the parent will not face criminal charges. Massachusetts was the 47th state to pass such a law. Several traffic initiatives were also conducted during the year. The "Click It or Ticket" campaign combined enforce- ment and education strategies to encourage motorists to wear seatbelts. The department's Child Passenger Safety Seat Program now has five certified Technicians, under the command of Lt. James Barry. These technicians have con- ducted safety checks of 182 child car seats while also host- ing a "Check Point" at the Minuteman Regional High School in May. Interested residents can call and make appointments with a technician. Lexington is an active participant with the North Eastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC), a group of 43 member communities in Essex and Middlesex Counties who have developed specialized units for deploy- ment as needed in the area. Lexington benefited several times this year with NEMLEC supplying dozens of officers to assist with local protests and most recently the KeySpan emergency. Lexington team members have assisted with: a barricaded suspect in Woburn; a lost teenager in Reading; and crowd control after the Superbowl and Patriots' parade. Grant Funding Lexington received a $19,500 grant to continue providing an advocate for the Domestic Violence Response Team (DVRT). The advocate works closely with the Family Services Detective to identify families in need of intervention, coordinates helpful services, and accompanies families through the court system. In October, the Department transitioned the advocacy services from the Wayside Youth and Family Services in Milford to REACH in Waltham. The grant funds an advocate for 20- hours and REACH provides an additional 20 hours at their home office to address related issues in Lexington. L to R: Chief Chris Casey with newly promoted Sergeants Edward O'Brien, John Mazerall, Paul Callahan and Chris Barry. A Community Policing grant for $35,952 allowed the depart- ment to purchase a used vehicle for a School Resource Officer, a new digital camera for the Detective Bureau, a multi - channel mobile radio for the motorcycle, and also pro- vided funding for the Open House and Bicycle Rodeo. Meritorious Service Award In October, Dispatcher David Spinosa and several Lexington Firefighters were honored for their part in the rescue of a woman from a house fire on Tufts Road. The award was made by Governor Romney and recognized the important role of emergency dispatch services. Noteworthy Investigations • At a routine alarm call, officers found marijuana plants with an estimated street value of over $50,000. • Detectives helped identify a suspect involved in numerous robberies in the area, including a robbery at a gas station in Lexington. • Three subjects were arrested while committing a breaking and entering of a gas station in East Village. • Former school employee sentenced to six years probation for criminal conduct at an elementary school. Service Calls and Statistics Calls for service were down approximately 9% (1068) and crime incidents reportable to the FBI down 19% (172) . With the number of individuals prosecuted increasing 11% (42), this was mostly due to motor vehicle related crimes. There were fewer prosecutions for serious offenses such as assault (down 22 or 40 %), robbery (down 4 to none), arson (down 23 with 1 defendant) and thefts /larceny (down 65 equaling 69 %). Accident locations continue to be a concern for the com- munity and frequently receive attention from officers to enforce violations that cause collisions. While four intersec- tions were removed from the list of high accident locations, continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 23 Police Department continued from previous page three new intersections were added: Bedford Street at Harrington Road (24); Mass. Avenue at Maple Street (18); and Lowell Street at Maple Street (12). Prosecution Summary Arrest without Warrant 132 Arrest with Warrant 28 Criminal Summons 182 Clerk's Hearing 79 Private Complaints 1 Juvenile Diversion's 16 Protective Custody' 9 "non- criminal not prosecuted Complaints and Calls For Service Motor Vehicle Accident Calls 971 Animal Control 230 Alarms Residential /Commercial 1563 Fire Calls 1214 Medical Assists 1224 Motorist Assist 504 Missing Persons 28 Disturbance /Disputes 308 Building / Person Checks 1187 Suspicious Activity 264 All Crimes 712 Park - Lock -Walk Patrol 575 Miscellaneous Calls 2480 Total 11,260 Police Manual Committee ROLE: To monitor the Police Department's policies and procedures as they are drafted and revised, and offer advice and input to help the Chief of Police maintain a current policy manual and a professional department. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Chief Christopher Casey, Cleveland Coats, Edith Flynn, Gerald McLeod, William Hayes, and Selectmen Liaison Peter Kelley. HIGHLIGHTS • Supported the Police Department's efforts to comply with national accreditation standards. These stan- dards, adopted and modified by the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission, provide a state of the art outline of how a law enforcement agency should be managed. The accreditation process, how- ever, is far more involved than writing policy. The agency must demonstrate compliance with written guidelines and prove that the agency is committed to meeting the standards. When new policies are drafted or existing policies changed, the Department ensures that personnel learn and apply the new procedures. Fines Generated by Traffic Enforcement Moving violations fines issued $155,421 Parking violations fines issued $141,027 Late payment fees $ 74,510 Parking fines collected in 2005 $128,708 High Accident Locations (10 or more incidents with more than $1000 damage) Bedford Street @ Route 95 25 Bedford Street @ Harrington Road 24 Mass Avenue @ Maple Street 18 Bedford Street @ Hartwell Avenue 16 Lowell Street @ Maple Street 12 Motor Vehicle Citations Issued Warnings 2138 Civil Infractions 1995 Criminal Complaints 161 Arrests 56 Total 4350 Criminal Court Summary by Type of Offense Operating to Endanger 9 Operating without License 68 Operating under Influence 30 Revoked / Suspended License 81 Disorderly / Disturbing Peace 13 Liquor Violations 33 Vandalism / Malicious Destruction 11 Forgery, Uttering, Counterfeiting 2 Receiving Stolen Property 5 Drug Violations 32 Domestic Order Violations 8 Assaults 33 Threats 5 Trespass 23 Robbery 0 Arson 1 Burglary / Breaking and Entering 20 Theft / Larceny 29 Larcenies Reported . . 216 Calls for Service.... 11,260 Auto Thefts 13 Serious Offenses 216 MN Accidents 971 400 100 Larcenies — Reported 1989 2005 14000 12000 Calls for Service 1989 2005 28 2h 24 20 Auto Thefts 1989 2005 400 200 Serious Offenses 1989 2005 1100 1000 900 Accidents 1989 2005 Page 24 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Fire Department ROLE: To protect the lives and property of the community from emergencies involving fire, medical, haz- ardous materials, and environmental causes. This mission will be Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $3,724,570 $388,812 $3,142,525 $417,026 Personnel Full Time 55 54 achieved through public education, code management, and emergency response. The Chief of the Fire Department also serves as the Emergency Management Director whose responsibilities include providing assistance to the commu- nity following natural disasters and other emergencies. APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Chief William Middlemiss since March 2004. This year was exceptionally active for the men and women of the Lexington Fire - Rescue Department. Increased runs, professional standards, planning and preparedness all took place during the year. The men and women of the Department deserve to be congratulated and specially com- mended for their outstanding service to the Town. Highlights • On November 9, at 11:19 am, a natural gas leak was reported at 3 Hancock Avenue. An explosion and fire rapidly followed this call and members of the Lexington Fire Department successfully fought to contain the fire to the structure of origin. While extinguishing this large fire several other calls were received for natural gas within structures, requiring additional assistance from Metro - Fire, bringing firefighters from 14 communities. In total, nine other potentially dangerous events were reported and investigated. This event soon became one of the largest to be handled by the Lexington Fire Department. A rapid and comprehensive evaluation was conducted and, after consultation with KeySpan, Town Manager Carl Valente, Assistant Town Manger Linda Vine, Police Chief Chris Casey and DPW Director Bill Hadley, the supply to near- ly 1400 gas customers was shut down. • Over the next several days, while the supply system was regasified, the Fire Department responded to several hun- dred calls for natural gas leaks both inside and outside of structures. It was determined that in excess of 180 residen- tial service regulators had been damaged, along with count- less feet of service lines and gas mains. Eight days after the initial event, the situation was considered under control by the LFD. Coordination meetings were conducted daily with town officials and representatives from KeySpan. Repairs to portions of the supply system are underway and are being supervised by representatives from the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Energy. In addition, the LFD has directed KeySpan to undergo an analysis of the system within the Town, which will determine the status and integrity of the supply system. • Four members of the LFD (C Group) were recognized by the Secretary of Public Safety on behalf of their peers, for a rescue performed on December 24, 2004, on Tufts Road. This coordinated event led to the successful rescue of the resident. The four honored as "Firefighter of the Year" are Captain Arthur Raithel, Lt. Robert Cunha, Firefighter Don Chisholm, and Dispatcher Dave Spinossa. • In February the Department received a new Engine 2, a 2004 1500- gallon per minute pumper built by Emergency One in Ocala, Florida. • The headquarters station underwent several improve- ments this past year, including an ADA entrance, security measures and a complete paint job. • As a result of a successful federal grant application, a physical fitness area was established in both stations for the use of on -duty personnel. The equipment, as well as the resources of professional physical therapists, were made available to all fire department personnel. Incidents of Significance • The department responded to 3928 calls which, even before the 326 additional gas related incidents, was more than in prior years. • 1925 calls were medical emergencies with 1501 resulting in transportation of one or more patients to a medical facility. The following is a brief summary of incidents of signifi- cance. • January 19 - Working Fire, North Street, 2 residents injured • February 9 - Working Fire in construction materials, Lexington Christian Academy • March 2 - Major Accident on Route 128 at Route 2 with multiple patients and entrapment • March 15 - Multiple manhole fires on Mass Avenue • March 26 - Major accident on Route 2 at 128 with entrapment and critical patients • May 24 — 24 Independence Avenue, 2 -alarm fire • September 11 - Working fire at 2121 Massachusetts Avenue power substation • November 9 - 3 Hancock Avenue, 4 -alarm fire, 2 injured • November 27 - Working Fire, 430 Bedford Street • December 21 - Ward Street, scaffold collapse, several injured • December 23 - Working Fire, Utica Street continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 25 Fire Department continued from previous page Grants The Fire Department was the recipient of four grants from various sources including: • $220,000 from the US Fire Administration, Department of Homeland Security, for the complete update of the fire department radio and communications system. • $36,000 from the Department of Public Safety, for the upgrading of several Self- Contained Breathing Apparatus, and cold water rescue suits. • $5,000 from the MA Department of Fire Services, SAFE grant for public education within the school system. • $4,000 from the MA Department of Public Health, for transportation safety issues, specifically safety on bicycles and the bike path. Fire Prevention Division The division continues to be staffed by the assistant chief, with assistance from fire suppression personnel in a limited inspection role. It is responsible for issuing approximately 40 different permits, ranging from blasting, installation of sprinklers, fire alarms, oil burners, propane tanks, above- ground and underground storage tanks for flammable and combustible liquids, and the transportation of flammable and combustible liquids. All of the aforementioned permits require inspections for compliance with the Board of Fire Prevention Regulations. Generally, the assistant chief per- forms these inspections. There continues to be a growth in demolition and replace- ment of older single - family homes with new larger dwellings. Commercial buildings are constantly undergoing renovations of tenant space. All new dwellings require plan reviews for smoke detectors while renovated commercial buildings require fire alarm and sprinkler system plan reviews. Shift commanders perform smoke detector inspec- tions of new dwellings for occupancy and existing dwellings, when required, for the sale of a home. The assis- tant chief reviews plans for dwellings and commercial buildings and oversees acceptance tests of fire alarm and sprinkler systems in commercial occupancies. There are 52 fire safety inspections performed quarterly by the fire suppression companies at schools, nursing homes, day care centers etc. These inspections are required pur- suant to Massachusetts General Law Chapter 148. The Student Awareness of Fire Education (S.A.F.E.) Program continues to be a success. Its mission is to enable students to recognize and react to the dangers of fire and, more specifically, the fire hazards tobacco products pose. This program is administered by two fire officers and pre- sented to approximately 500 grade one children in six ele- mentary schools. It reduces fires, burns and deaths and the children see fire fighters as role models. Members of the Fire Department helped kick off Fire Prevention Week with demonstrations at the National Heritage Museum. They also held an Open House at Fire Headquarters with approximately 500 residents participat- ing. Participants could don firefighters turn -out gear, man live hose lines and witness vehicle extrication techniques using the Jaws of Life. Also on display was equipment from the Fire Department's paramedic level ambulance service. Such items include a cardiac monitor, intubation equipment for airway management, IV equipment, and a large array of drugs to treat multiple medical conditions. Firefighter /Paramedics were available to answer questions about the Department's advanced medical care. Emergency Medical Services This past year saw the first complete year of the Fire Department's Advanced Life Support program which has provided many residents with the much - needed early inter- vention required, without delay and prior to hospital arrival. Proposals have been received for the purchase of a replace- ment ambulance for Rescue 2; the replacement vehicle should be in place by June. continued on next page Emergency Response 5000 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 • Total Emergency CaIIs ❑ Medical CaIIs Page 26 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Fire Department continued from previous page Personnel Personnel changes included the retirements of Joseph Haynes, Kevin Garvey, James Donovan, and Samuel Palmer. Christopher Ford, Mark Simonds, and David Walton came on board as Firefighter- Paramedics. In addi- tion, Kerry Evans started as Administrative Assistant. Firefighters Bryan Webb, Christopher Hickey, Christopher Pouliot, Scott Morency, and Richard Prescott completed the 11 -week training program at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy. Firefighter Robert Levesque was activated by the National Guard and sent to Iraq where he is currently assigned as a paramedic at a support station. Firefighters Christopher Hickey and Steve Musto answered FEMA's call for trained personnel to help in the hurricane ravaged areas of New Orleans. Firefighter Hickey served for nearly six weeks, while Firefighter Musto served for two. Emergency Management Emergency Management has been placed front and center this past year with many of the Town's key employees suc- cessfully completing federal National Incident Management training. In addition, a concerted effort con- tinues to be made to update the Town's Comprehensive Emergency Plan, with an exercise planned for the spring. A site review is underway with the intent of locating an adequate and appropriate location for the Town's Emergency Operations Center. A review of the Town's three short -term shelters is underway in conjunction with the Red Cross of Mass Bay. The Lexington Emergency Management Agency was the recipient of several pieces of equipment, including a light- ing tower which can be utilized by various town depart- ments for nighttime operations, and two 6kw generators for supplemental use. Biosafety Committee ROLE: To oversee all uses of recombinant DNA (rDNA) within the Town of Lexington and advise the Board of Health who issues permits to facilities using rDNA. Review all applications for permits for the use of rDNA for compliance with local, State, and Federal guidelines. APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Chair Janice Pero, PhD; Wendy Heiger - Bernays, PhD. Staff: Health Director Derek Fullerton, RS, CHO. HIGHLIGHTS • Biosafety inspector performed inspections of the six facilities in Lexington with permits and presented the results to the Board of Health. Board of Health ROLE: To pro- tect and promote the health of resi- dents and those who work in or visit the Town; to develop and Expenditures Payroll FY05 FY04 $136,262 $111,324 Personnel Full Time 3 3 Part Time 1 1 implement effective health policies, regulations and P ro grams that prevent disease and ensure the well being of the community. APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Chair Wendy Heiger- Bernays, PhD; Burt Perlmutter, MD.; Sharon MacKenzie, RN; Deborah Thompson, ScD. Staff: Health Director, Derek Fullerton, RS, CHO; Environmental Health Agent, Kathy Fox, CHO; Part -time Animal Control Officer, Stephanie Doucette; and Office Manager Ann Belliveau. Part -time Public Health Nurse position: vacant Emergency Planning Awarded funding from the Federal Government to conduct a two -town emergency preparedness tabletop exercise in collaboration with the Town of Burlington Health Department. Conducted an exercise that involved vital communications and workforce disruption related to the potential exposure to anthrax within each community, simultaneously. Lexington and Burlington personnel from the Health Department, Board of Health, Fire Department, Police Department, Public Works, and Town Administration took part. Initiated development of sections of the Lexington public health emergency operations plan for emergency planning and response. Identified emergency dispensing sites and associated plans to administer vaccine or antibiotics in response to large infectious disease outbreaks within the community. Established a medical volunteer list of local residents who are healthcare professionals who could be available and willing to volunteer in the event of a local or regional emer- gency. Developed a database of the volunteers for future planning, training, and for the opportunity to become implemented into a regional medical reserve corp. Engine Idling Reduction Awareness Continued participation on the Article 40 Ad Hoc Committee to review the existing bylaw with respect to sta- tionary engine run -up and make recommendations to Town Meeting for reducing excessive engine idling in Lexington. Created an educational brochure which will be delivered to all residents in January 2006. Developed an educational webpage on engine idling which is available on the Health Department website. Outlined an educational program with the committee to address further education to the commu- nity and enforcement planning. continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 27 Board of Health continued from previous page Tobacco Sales Enforcement Participated in the Metrowest- Suburban Tobacco Control Collaborative (MTCC) on enforcement of state and local tobacco laws and education. Collaborated with MTCC for conducting routine inspections throughout the year to iden- tify tobacco sales to minors from permit holders in Lexington. Issued fines to 11 establishments who sold tobacco to minors. Mosquito Control Participated in the East Middlesex Mosquito Control Program which included applications of lavacide to town catch basins during the 2005 mosquito breeding season and West Nile Virus monitoring and surveillance. Influenza Vaccinations Coordinated and conducted two flu vaccine clinics for resi- dents of Lexington between the ages of 18 -65 in November and December at St. Brigids Parish. Approximately 450 res- idents were vaccinated. Septic System Maintenance Presented an educational presentation to residents on household septic systems that outlined the components, functions, and proper maintenance requirements of septic systems. Provided best management practices and pumping record log sheets. Statistics Permits Issued Inspections Inquiries Complaints (' incl. animals) Communicable Diseases Immunizations (Influenza) 2005 2004 2003 562 541 560 625 534 467 1357 1525 1119 "264 169 186 96 69 112 450 640 265 Traffic Safety Advisory Committee ROLE: To advise the Selectmen on traffic safety issues. The Police Department reviews residents' traffic concerns to assess safety levels and to develop recommendations that may require consultation with staff from the Engineering, Planning or School Departments. Unresolved traffic safety concerns are scheduled for a public meeting presided over by the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee. The Board of Selectmen review meeting reports and rec- ommendations. Recommendations approved by the Selectmen requiring signs or markings are forwarded to the Department of Public Works for implementation and code changes are forwarded to the Town Clerk's Office. APPOINTED by the Selectmen: Stephen Ades, Steve Frymer, Sudhir Murthy, Stefan Schatzki, David Crump (School Department), Captain Charles Sargent (Police Department), David Cannon (Engineering), Gail Wagner (Transportation Services). HIGHLIGHTS • Worked collaboratively with the DPW and Police Department to develop a new process to more effec- tively address citizens' traffic safety concerns. The revised format has been initiated and early assess- ment indicates improved response time to residents' traffic safety concerns. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 28 PUBLIC FACILITIES Department of Public Works APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Dir- ector William Hadley since April 2000. ROLE: To enhance the quality of life in Lexington Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $ 3,860,236 $14,325,818 $ 3,860,236 $14,864,423 Personnel Full Time 75 75 Part Time 10 10 Seasonal 2 0 and support the 2020 vision. mize the efficient and effective use of resources in support, maintenance, and upkeep of infrastructure, public lands, and programs. The Department is committed to public safe- ty and providing prompt, courteous, quality service to cus- tomers and each other. Every effort is made to maxi- Staffing Changes Staffing issues continued to be a focus in 2005. The Public Building Maintenance superintendent resigned in July and responsibilities were temporarily distributed to other staff. For the first time since 2001, Public Works was able to begin to rebuild the depleted workforce that had been reduced by previous budget and town decisions. A new crew chief's position was approved for the Cemetery Division to bring their staffing up to three employees. In 2000, there were six cemetery employees. The Engineering Division was able to fill the Senior Civil Engineer's position for a full complement of staff for the first time since 2004. Self Assessment A main goal of Public Works has been to provide the com- munity with the best possible service and continue to look at alternatives that allow staff to perform its responsibilities more efficiently and effectively. In order to do this, the Department has taken on the Self- Assessment phase of the Accreditation process sponsored by the American Public Works Association (APWA). As part of a three -year process, staff began looking at, examining and documenting each and every policy and procedure in the Department. HIGHLIGHTS • Resurfaced another seven miles of streets as the third phase of the $7,000,000 debt exclusion article funded in 2002. • Robert Beaudoin, Superintendent of Environmental Services, received the Environmental Merit Award from the Region 1 Office of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Beaudoin was recognized for improving the envi- ronmental health of the Town through his accomplish- ments in managing various specific recycling efforts and developing a comprehensive composting program. • Hosted a third annual open house in May at the Operations Facility. Over 500 residents participated in demonstrations of equipment and explanations of DPW functions. Children enjoyed climbing on trucks, and learn- ing about different Public Works jobs and services. • The Department assisted the Police and Fire Departments and KeySpan during the restoration of gas utility service after the November explosion incident. In addition to assisting with street markouts, the DPW Facility was set up as a command center by KeySpan, the Police, and plumbing inspectors for two weeks. DPW Administration ROLE: To man- age personnel, monitor the annual budget, provide outreach to the communi- ty, supervise the numerous pro- Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $266,748 $ 28,153 $318,226 $ 27,081 Personnel Full Time 5 5 Part Time 1 1 jects, and com- petitively bid contracts for Public Works disposal of solid waste, recycling, and special collections for State - banned hazardous products, composting facility, snow plowing, street lighting, transportation, and parking programs. services including HIGHLIGHTS: • The Director continued to participate in the Northeast Homeland Security Council consisting of 89 Massachusetts communities. A regional homeland security plan has been developed as well as emergency contingencies. Tabletop exercises and simulated emergency situations have identi- fied where training and resources are needed. • Along with the Permanent Building Committee, the Director participated in the selection committee for the architect for the new DPW Facility. • Participated in the dissolution of the 20 -year North East Solid Waste Committee agreement and provision for dis- posal of Lexington's refuse at a much lower rate at the Wheelabrator North Andover Facility beginning September 25. • Provided management and administrative support for the regional Household Hazardous Products Facility includ- ing the maintenance of the facility, the accounting func- tion, and analysis of statistics for the eight member towns. • Provided liaisons to several work groups and ad hoc com- mittees devoted to the study of water and sewer rates, ren- ovation or relocation of the DPW Operations Facility, and the electric utility. continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 29 DPW: Engineering Division continued from previous page Engineering Division ROLE: To pro- vide design, con- struction, and management ser- vices to the DPW and to other departments, boards, commit- Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $245,478 $ 8,203 $294,047 $ 9,659 Personnel Full Time 6 6 Part Time 1 1 tees, and the gen- eral public. Town Engineer: Peter Chalpin, P.E., since September 1998. HIGHLIGHTS • Staff Changes: Three vacancies were filled in 2005 Assistant Town Engineer, Senior Civil Engineer and Engineering Assistant. • GIS: Staff continued to update the Town's Geographical Information System maps for water, sewer, drainage, and parcel data. • Infrastructure Renewal: Engineering staff designed, man- aged, and /or supervised projects totaling approximately $2.9 million. Contract 05 -1 Street Resurfacing Contractor: P.J. Albert Co., Inc. Resurfaced approximately 7 miles of neighborhood streets Contract 04 -09 Water Improvements Contractor: Cedrone Trucking Co., Inc. Replaced water mains on Laconia, Lowell, and Shade Streets Contract 04 -20 Police Station UST Cleanup Contractor: VHB Consulting Engineers Co., Inc. Ongoing environmental cleanup Contract 05 -18 Pavement Management System Update Contractor: VHB Consulting Engineers Co., Inc. Contract 05 -19 Laconia Street Construction Construction of roadway to town standards Contract 06 -03 Sidewalk Construction Contractor: McIver Industries New sidewalk Marrett Rd., Edison Way, and Bowman School $1,760,000 $420,000 $164,000 $35,000 $335,000 $50,000 Contract 06 -13 Traffic Signal Improvements $45,000 Contractor: Coviello Construction Inc. Update existing signals at Lowell and Maple Street per School Dept. request Contract 04 -18 Center Sidewalks and Drain $120,000 Contractor: McIver Industries New sidewalk and drain at Cary Memorial Library • Facilities Design, Construction & Renewal: Engineering staff designed, managed and /or supervised projects total- ing approximately $326,000. Contract 02 -14 $135,000 Fire HQ ADA and Interior Renovations Contractor: Dayco Construction, Inc. Contract 05 -04 Cary Hall & Police Station ADA Doors $51,000 Contractor: Automatic Door Systems, Inc. Contract 03 -10 Police Station Generator $ 85,000 Contractor: A11 -Pro Electric Co., Inc. New emergency generator and appurtenances Contract 06 -03 Hastings Park Gazebo Repairs $45,000 Contractor: Cape Cod Builders Inc. New roofing, siding, and paint Contract 05 -16 Cary Hall ADA Ramp Repair $10,000 Contractor: Dayco Construction, Inc. Repair handrails and bluestone cap • New Water /Sewer Connection Permits: Issued 23 permits for new water or sewer service for new homes. • Water /Sewer Permits: Issued 210 permits for repair/ replacement of water or sewer service to existing homes. • Street Opening Permits: Approved and issued 203 permits for opening or occupying the public way to contractors. • Property /Utility Records: Received 1137 requests for information from citizens, contractors, developers, and realtors Public Building Maintenance ROLE: To ensure environmentally safe and aestheti- cally pleasing public buildings by providing cus- todial services, preventive main- tenance, repairs, Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $320,129 $473,963 $342,459 $388,505 Personnel Full Time 8 8 Part Time 1 1 continued on next page Page 30 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington DPW: Public Building Maintenance continued from previous page and renovations; monitoring energy use; and overseeing contracted repairs. Superintendent: Position unfilled since July 2005. HIGHLIGHTS Staff performed or oversaw contractors who completed the following: • Gutter and downspout repairs to Cary Hall and Town Office Buildings. • Repair of leaking concrete abutment well on east side of Town Office Building. • Concrete repairs to the handicapped access ramp of Cary Hall. • Facilitation of office moves and wall repairs in Town Office Building. • Installation of a new emergency generator for the Police Station. • Repair or replacement of plumbing fixtures in Town Office Building, Cary Memorial Library, and the Visitors' Center. • Provision of coverage, setups, and cleanups for Cary Hall performances and rentals. • Replacement of fuel oil and cooling circulation pump motors at Cary Hall. • Rebuilding of Cary Hall and Town Office Building cool- ing circulator pumps. • Set up and take down, by request, of over 200 meetings. Highway Maintenance The Highway and Road Divisions as well as Snow Removal Operations are consolidated under the supervision of the Manager of Operations /Highway Superintendent. Each division will be reported on separately. Manager of Operations /Superintendent: Wayne Brooks since May 2000. Highway Division ROLE: To main- tain 126 miles of accepted streets and sidewalks, the drainage sys- tem, brooks, street and traffic signs and signals, and to oversee Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $531,182 $228,931 $546,234 $186,437 Personnel All DPW Staff All DPW Staff Full Time 13 13 Full Time 2 0 the Road Machinery Operations. HIGHLIGHTS • Street and Sidewalk Repair: Used over 600 tons of asphalt to maintain roads and sidewalks and to install asphalt curbing. The Pothole Patching Truck purchased in 2004 continues to be a productive and labor saving system to repair potholes. Division and Snow Removal • Sidewalk Improvements: The superintendent worked with the Sidewalk Committee to identify and prioritize areas that need repair or reconstruction. • Storm Drain Maintenance: Repaired and rebuilt over 38 catch basins. • Catch Basin Cleaning: Cleaned 4731 catch basins. • Street Sweeping: Performed by town personnel on a straight -time basis using one of two town -owned sweepers. • Traffic Line and Crosswalk Markings: Lines were paint- ed in the fall by a publicly bid contractor. Crosswalk and parking lines were painted in the spring and summer by DPW staff on a straight -time basis. • Traffic Sign Maintenance: 2400 traffic control signs and 500 parking meters were maintained. All repairs and installations were handled to ensure a timely response to traffic control issues. Staff continued to use the comput- erized sign- cutting machine to create in house the larger more reflective street signs. • Traffic Signal Maintenance: Maintained 10 traffic con- trol signals and 11 additional flashing signals or spot- lights. Staff replaced bulbs and a private contractor per- formed repairs on an on -call basis. Snow Removal Operations ROLE: To han- dle all snow- plowing and sanding opera- tions using Public Works staff and 34 pieces of town - owned equipment Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $ 575,041 $1,019,106 $296,523 $441,639 Personnel Full Time All DPW Staff All DPW Staff including 8 sanders and 31 pieces of hired plowing equipment and operators. HIGHLIGHTS • Lexington experienced 22 snow and ice storms for a total of 50 inches of snow. Four storms required full plowing operations by town staff and outside contractors; 4829 tons of sand and salt were used on town roads; snow was picked up and removed from the Center Business District once. • Town Meeting approved the purchase of several new pieces of snow removal equipment used to clean the Center and sidewalks. These snow blowers have allowed the snow to be cleared more effectively from the sidewalks resulting in a much cleaner finished product. The loader - mounted blower has permitted the clearing of snow from the Center more frequently and should prove to be more cost effective. continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 31 DPW: Road Machinery Division continued from previous page Road Machinery Division ROLE: To main- tain all Public Works, Fire, and School vehicles in a ready /active sta- tus. Public Works equipment con- sists of 160 vehi- cles ranging from sedans, pickups, and dump trucks to off - road construction equipment including backhoes, front -end loaders, lawn mowers, and landscaping and lawn mainte- nance equipment. Mechanics also maintain 13 Fire Department vehicles and 7 School Department vehicles. Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $130,483 $256,315 $166,351 $248,772 Personnel Full Time 4 4 HIGHLIGHTS • Summer work consisted of repairing and painting snow- plows and sander bodies, and keeping Highway, Public Grounds, and Water and Sewer equipment in operation. • Winter projects included rebuilding street sweepers and maintenance of landscaping equipment. • During the ongoing preventive maintenance program, each vehicle is evaluated and prioritized in the vehicle replacement survey. • More scheduled preventive maintenance and repairs were contracted out this year due to staff reductions. Solid Waste Management ROLE: To manage envi- ronmental ser- vice programs including con- tracted curb- side refuse col- lection and disposal; curbside recycling collection of mixed paper, plastic, glass and metal containers, yard waste and appliances, and recycling drop -off of corrugated cardboard; operations of the Minuteman Household Hazardous Products regional facility; the special collection of cathode ray tubes (CRTs) and other electronics; operations at the Hartwell Avenue Compost Facility (HACF) including the processing and collection of leaves, yard waste, brush, and other organic materials from contractors, residents, and municipal curbside materials; several service agreements with private contractors for the provision of composting - related services; the contractor permit program for yard waste and brush; and develop and implement marketing program regarding the sale of various compost /loam products. Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $ 63,443 $2,022,821 $ 57,322 $2,419,282 Personnel Full Time 2 2 Superintendent of Environmental Services: Robert Beaudoin since September 2001. HIGHLIGHTS • Curbside Collections - Continued the weekly curbside collection of mixed paper and plastic, glass, and metal containers along with residential trash. Waste Management of Massachusetts completed the fourth year of a 5 -year contract extension for curbside collection of solid waste and recyclable materials. Applied for and received Mass. Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) technical assistance grant to examine innovative collection options for the collection of solid waste and recyclables beginning July 1, 2007. • Recycling Statistics - Residents recycled 5444 tons of glass, metal, plastics, and mixed paper through the curb- side and drop -off collection program, a slight decrease of about 139 tons or nearly 2.5% less from the previous year. A total of 2692 appliances were collected from Lexington residents through the curbside collection pro- gram. Nearly 94 tons of cardboard were recycled by expanding recycling access at the DPW facility, public schools, and other sites. • Recycling Outreach — Worked with the LABBB program to coordinate the collection of ink -jet and toner cartridges from munici- pal departments and from CRT special drop -off collec- tions. Several hundred of these items have been collect- ed and processed for reuse. — Expanded collection of cardboard at the High School, Harrington Elementary, and at the DPW facility. — Provide curbside recycling access and collection of paper and commingled containers at two pilot sites for non - profit institutions. — Held two workshops at DPW facility for landscape companies regarding the contractor yard waste permit program. Nearly 20 contractors attended these meet- ings and provided valuable comments on how to improve the delivery of services at the compost site. — Expanded weekday and weekend spring and fall hours of operation at the HACF. — For the first time vendors at the 2005 Discovery Day event recycled cardboard boxes resulting in the recov- ery of more than a ton of cardboard and avoiding the cost of a dumpster. For the third year attendees recycled several hundred beverage containers. — Increased distribution of public recycling event boxes to additional civic organizations to recycle beverage con- tainer at annual fairs, festivals, and fundraisers. — Revised annual Trash and Recycling collection calendar and mailed to all households. — Received DEP "Idling Reduction Campaign Toolkit" education grant and technical assistance grant to pro- vide outreach to realtors regarding the Minuteman Hazardous Household Product (MMHHP) regional facility. — Distributed discounted water conservation rain barrels to 50 Lexington households. continued on next page Page 32 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington DPW: Solid Waste Management continued from previous page Provided recycling access, education materials, and demonstrations at public events including DPW open house, Discovery Day, Patriots' Day Parade, and at the Estabrook School. Continued the fluorescent bulb recovery program at public schools, municipal buildings and at the MMHHP facility, recycling more than 2 miles of fluo- rescent bulbs and receiving more than $700 in grant funds to subsidize collection costs. Diverted several tons of recyclables at schools using additional recycling containers and coordinating extra collections for June clean -out projects. Completed second year of food waste recovery pro- gram at Estabrook School. Improved recycling access at several multi - family hous- ing complexes by installing new containers and signage on recycling toters. Promoted the reuse of construction materials such as kitchen cabinets, bathroom fixtures and other building materials on nearly 50 demolition projects in Lexington resulting in the diversion of several tons of demolition debris that are traditionally disposed in landfills. • Tonnage Comparison - Trash generation decreased by about a half percent in FY05 compared to FY04 resulting in 43 fewer tons delivered by Lexington to the waste -to- energy facility. This slight decrease, especially with national and regional trends showing rising trash genera- tion rates, is a positive sign; however, it is important to report that FY05 trash generation produced nearly 1300 additional tons when compared to FY02 trash tonnage, and for the first time in several years curbside recycling tonnage decreased. • Trash Disposal — Disposed of 9361 tons of solid waste at the North East Solid Waste Committee's North Andover waste -to- energy facility to which the Town was contrac- tually obligated to deliver 11,396 tons of trash. For the fourth consecutive year, Lexington did not exceed its guaranteed annual tonnage and successfully brokered 2036 tons of disposal capacity to another NESWC com- munity at $90 per ton and other outlets. This produced nearly $170,000 to underwrite the cost of funding waste management services. • CRT Collections - As a result of the State's solid waste ban, DPW conducted three 1 -day special collections of televisions and computer monitors that contain cathode ray tubes (CRTs) made of lead and other metals. Lexington residents from nearly 1500 households and several municipal departments generated more than 155,000 pounds (77.5 tons) of CRTs that were recycled and diverted from trash disposal. The cost to collect and properly dispose of these CRTs was approximately $23,000. • Curbside Yard Waste Collections — The State DEP regula- tions prohibits yard waste from being disposed of with trash. A valuable tool in diverting yard waste from municipal sold waste was the 12 curbside yard waste col- lections provided in FY05. Nearly 1500 tons of yard waste (including Christmas trees) were collected through this curbside program and brought to the Hartwell Avenue Compost facility saving the Town thousands of dollars in disposal costs and providing a valuable resource that can be sold as finished product. • Composting Facility - The composting program at the Hartwell Avenue Recycling Facility is operated by one full -time and one seasonal employee with assistance from the Highway Division and three private contractors. Residents and private contractors delivered an estimated 50,000 cubic yards of yard waste leaves, brush, and grass clippings. The rich composted material continued to be available for residential use, for sale to contractors, and for use in public grounds. New fees for the contrac- tor yard waste permit and punch card programs were approved by the Selectmen in April 2005. In FY05 the yard waste permit and punch card programs for contrac- tors generated $70,000 in revenue. • Comprehensive Composting Program — Several activities were initiated to assess the value and improve operations of the HACF: — Completed 30 -page Comprehensive Service Plan. — Improved signage, processing, and traffic logistics at HACF site to more effectively manage incoming resi- dential, commercial, and curbside yard waste materials. — Entered second year of Agreement with the Town of Arlington to accept their curbside yard waste. The first year resulted in $42,000 payment to Lexington for the disposal of approximately 3000 tons of yard waste and Christmas trees. — Expanded spring and fall weekday and weekend hours of operation at the HACF. — Marketed a variety of compost products to several local landscape companies resulting in the sale of nearly $112,000 of loam and compost materials deposited into the Town's compost product revolving account. • Hazardous Products Collections - The Minuteman Household Hazardous Products Facility conducted eight collection events. The contractor for the final year of the current contract was Clean Harbors, Inc. Residents from 39 communities participated in removing hazardous products from the waste stream. The Boards of Health, Public Works Departments, and community volunteers combined to manage the site. Of the 3545 cars that par- ticipated in collections during FY05, 1013 or 29% were from Lexington. continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 33 DPW: Public Grounds continued from previous page • SWAT — While the Solid Waste Action Team (SWAT) no longer actively meets, several members continued to pro- vide valuable assistance on program enhancements and public education outreach activities that: — Provided volunteers at the DPW /recycling table at Discovery Day and at CRT special collections. — Disseminated information at Town Meeting and other public meetings. — Organized tour of FCR recycling facility where Lexington recyclables are processed. — Wrote columns in the Lexington Minuteman that pro- vided tips on waste reduction and answered questions about recycling and trash disposal. The Town maintained its commitment to a comprehensive solid waste and recycling educational program which will provide long -term environmental and economic benefits, and will continue to assess the effectiveness of these programs. Public Grounds The Parks, Forestry, and Cemetery Divisions and the Street Light Maintenance Program are consolidated under the supervision of the Public Grounds Superintendent. Each division will be reported on separately. Superintendent: David Pinsonneault since October 2000. Parks Division ROLE: To main- tain and care for over 600 acres of town, school, and recreation lands. Areas maintained include athletic fields, public Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $614,330 $ 89,786 $644,505 $ 83,678 Personnel 4 4 Full Time 15 15 Seasonal 0 0 grounds, playgrounds, rights -of -way, bike path, pool, and reservoir Also assists the Conservation Commission in maintaining vegetative growth on properties under their jurisdiction and with various special town events. HIGHLIGHTS • Playgrounds and Parks: Performed day -to -day and start- up /closeout maintenance at the pool complex; transport- ed supplies and equipment for various departments and user groups; assisted with spring and winter maintenance at the Old Reservoir including adding and grading sand; performed playground inspections and repaired various playground deficiencies including surfacing and swings; assisted with new playground equipment and safety sur- face installation at Rindge Park; coordinated new fence installation at Rindge Park; installed new basketball stan- dards at Adams /Waldorf; performed maintenance at the skateboard park; performed landscape improvements and spring and fall cleanups at various Town sites. tennis and basketball courts, trails, complexes. • Sports Fields: Rebuilt the infield at the Harrington Playfields softball field as a coordinated effort with a gen- eral contractor; renovated infields at various baseball and softball fields throughout Town; coordinated the installa- tion of an automated irrigation system at the Harrington Playfields; performed daily ballfield maintenance during the playing seasons; performed synthetic field mainte- nance at Lincoln Park; performed turf, drainage and site amenity repairs to the football field, Center Track field, various soccer fields and ballfields; performed athletic field layout for school, youth, and Recreation programs on an overtime basis and performed athletic field line painting during the spring and fall seasons; constructed and repaired benches; repaired bleachers, backstops, and fencing; transported goals and nets for various sports activities and user groups. • Park Maintenance: Coordinated the turf maintenance pro- gram which included aeration, overseeding, topdressing, irrigation, and incorporated integrated pest management; emptied the new recycling barrels at various locations; installed new benches and repaired benches at various loca- tions; painted, repaired, installed, and constructed picnic tables and trash receptacles throughout the Town's park system; performed trash pickup at designated sites; main- tained the Minuteman Bikeway; performed mowing and maintained site amenities, drinking fountains, and irriga- tion systems in designated areas; performed rough -cut mowing at conservation areas and roadsides on a limited basis; performed maintenance on traffic islands on a limit- ed basis in coordination with the Lexington Field and Garden Club; assisted with various special events including Patriots' Day, parades, and Chamber of Commerce events; assisted with installation and removal of the planters in the Center and in East Lexington; performed other requests for service from other town departments, boards, commis- sions, and the general public; and assisted the Building Maintenance, Highway, Forestry, and Cemetery Divisions with various projects. Forestry Division ROLE: To care for and preserve all woody plant vegetation in parks, along streets, and in all public properties, with the highest Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $177,218 $ 28,792 $173,893 $ 19,320 Personnel Full Time 4 4 priority given to emergencies. Provide direct support cemetery operations on an as- needed basis. Maintain approximately 10,000 street trees and all shrub plantings and trees in parks, playgrounds, cemeteries, traffic islands, public right -of -ways, conservation land, recreation land, and school property. Maintain 3343 streetlights. Assist other departments and groups with aerial -lift services. to continued on next page Page 34 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington DPW: Forestry Division continued from previous page HIGHLIGHTS • General Tree Care: Staff resolved over 300 requests for ser- vice; pruned trees at the cemeteries, schools, conservation areas, recreation areas including the Pine Meadows Golf Course, public grounds areas, and other locations within the public right -of -way as part of an ongoing preventive maintenance program; responded to requests for clearing foliage- obstructed street lights to improve visibility; cleared downed trees and limbs after snow, ice, rain, and wind- storms; cut back encroaching trees and shrubs along the Minuteman Bike Path and other Town right -of -ways; watered trees as resources permitted; treated 23 trees for pests and disease and inspected Precinct 7 for hazardous trees as part of a pro- active yearly initiative to address haz- ardous conditions before damage or injury occurs. Provided oversight of the Tree Bylaw of which 418 sites have been reviewed since October 2001 with 479 trees approved for removal and 1115 new trees required to plant. Staff also attended educational workshops. • Tree Pruning: Pruned 150 trees to remove hazards, improve health, structure, shape, and aesthetics. • Tree Removal: Removed 119 dead, diseased, damaged, or otherwise hazardous trees; ground stumps, added loam to grade, and seeded the removal sites, where possible. The majority of the removals were elm, ash, and maple trees. • Planting: A total of 43 trees were planted, including the Arbor Day trees at the Depot Building, trees along the Bikeway, at the High School, and at various locations throughout Town. The trees were funded through a MASS Releaf Grant, a grant from NSTAR, local dona- tions, private funding sources, and the program budget. • Pest Control: Treated for bees and wasps, as needed, at various locations. • Streetlights: Inspected and replaced bulbs and sensors on town -owned streetlights. • Other Projects: Decorated and removed holiday lighting throughout the Town Center; chipped over 3000 Christmas trees; installed and removed Liberty Ride and voting banners; assisted with the Arbor Day ceremony; provided on -going assistance to the Cemetery and Park Divisions throughout the season; and assisted other town departments with aerial -lift services. Staff applied for and received Tree City USA status for 2004. Cemetery Division ROLE: To operate and maintain 34 acres of grounds and all buildings and equipment for four cemeteries: Westview, Munroe, Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $135,952 $ 31,552 $159,840 $ 33,821 Personnel Full Time 3 3 Seasonal 0 0 Robbins, and Colonial; and to serve the bereaved in a pro- fessional manner. HIGHLIGHTS • Assisted with and prepared cemeteries for special events such as flags, spring /fall cleanup, etc. • Operated and maintained the irrigation system at Westview Cemetery to promote better turf quality. • Coordinated with the contractor for turf maintenance ser- vices including fertilizing and Integrated Pest Management at Westview Cemetery. • Worked with a consultant to develop a maintenance pro- gram for repair and upkeep of the grave markers at Colonial Cemetery. • There were 143 interments and 64 cremation burials in Westview Cemetery; 2 interments in Munroe Cemetery. Staff dug and backfilled graves, set stones, loamed, and seeded graves. • At Westview Cemetery, 108 new lots were sold with the revenue split between the Town (45 %) and the Perpetual Care Trust (55 %). A total of 71 foundations for flush markers were approved and set. Four stones were removed and replaced. • In addition to purchasing directly from the Town, grave boxes and burial vaults may be purchased from and installed by outside vendors for an inspection fee. The Town sold a total of 53 grave boxes or 96% of the total installed and 36 burial vaults being 69% of the total installed. Inspection fees were collected for 2 grave boxes and 16 burial vaults, which were provided and installed by outside contractors. • Revenue collections totaled $249,556 (includes $57,684 transferred to the Perpetual Care Trust). • A new crew chief's position was in place at the end of September 2005. Street Light Maintenance Program ROLE: To proac- tively maintain a cost - effective lighting system Expenditures FY05 FY04 Expenses $242,158 $259,743 which enhances public safety along Lexington roadways, while considering all characteristics of light- source quality. HIGHLIGHTS • Town employees have maintained 3343 streetlights since March 2000. Members of the Forestry Division inspect and change photo- sensor cells and light bulbs. Service calls are scheduled on an overtime -basis as weather per- mits. Calls are processed in the order they are received by date and /or are prioritized by whether or not it is an emergency repair. If the repair requires more technical expertise involving wiring and /or replacement of fixtures and heads, an electrical contractor is dispatched to resolve the problem. continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 35 DPW: Street Light Maintenance Program continued from previous page • A total of 980 outages were reported to the call center through December. Town staff inspected 887 calls and repaired 578 of them. The electrical contractor repaired 309 lights. As of December 20, a total of 93 calls remained unresolved. The response time for town staff inspection and repair of lights is between 10 to 15 days. The electrical contractor response for repairs is about 10 to 15 days after the initial inspections by town staff. • The call center for streetlight maintenance operates from the DPW Operations Facility at 201 Bedford Street. The toll -free telephone number dedicated to reporting outages is 1- 877 - FIX -LAMP or 1 -877- 349 -5267. Callers should leave their name, address, phone number, pole number, and nature of the outage. • Installed new test lights in various locations as per the Lighting Options Committee. Parking Operation ROLE: To pro- vide a balance of short- and long- term parking for Center visitors and employees by managing the Town's permit and attended parking programs including a 300 -car attend- ed lot, three permitted areas, the employee parking lot behind the Town Hall complex, and approximately 500 parking meters in the Center business area. Part -time employees operate the attended lot. Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $ 42,266 $ 20,947 $ 41,738 $ 17,201 Personnel Part Time 6 5 Program Manager: Gail Wagner since May 2001. HIGHLIGHTS: • Depot Square lot is attended weekdays year -round and Saturdays from April through mid - November from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The capacity of the lot can be increased during busy times by stacking as many as 60 additional cars in the aisles. • 201 annual permits were sold to Center business employ- ees. • Parking meters are posted for various time limits from 30 minutes to 4 hours throughout the Center. • FY05 revenue was as follows: Parking Meters $200,927 Attended Lot $125,929 Parking Permits $50,360 Total Parking Revenue $377,216 Transportation Services ROLE: To oversee all aspects of the operation of LEX- PRESS including customer service, schedules, routes, contract monitor- ing, MBTA grant administration, marketing, rider- ship, and fare col- lection activities. Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04" $ 65,230 $225,689 $ 0 $ 0 Personnel Full Time 1 1 Part Time 1 1 "Tax levy funds were not appropriated. Service was funded by grants and con- tributions. Transportation Coordinator: Gail Wagner since May 2001. The Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) advises the Transportation Coordinator on all issues related to the operation of LEXPRESS and Transportation Demand Management. APPOINTED by the Selectmen: Chair Sara Arnold, Co- Chair William Levison, Sally Castleman, Elaine Dratch, Don Graham, Diane Pursley, Francine Steiglitz. Selectmen Liaison Hank Manz. Student representative Eric Eid- Reiner. HIGHLIGHTS: • LEXPRESS Bus Service. LEXPRESS is in its 26th year of service as a neighborhood fixed route system. It operates a three -bus, six -route system. LEXPRESS connects residen- tial neighborhoods and outlying business areas with Lexington Center, schools, recreation facilities, shopping areas, and the Senior Center. One route also serves the Burlington Mall and Middlesex Commons in Burlington. Buses operate Monday through Friday 6:45am to 6:25pm, September through June, and 7:OOam to 6:25pm, July and August. No service Saturdays, Sundays, or legal holidays. — LEXPRESS passengers represented 58% students, 25% adults, 15% senior citizens, and 2% children under six. — M L Transit Systems, Inc. of Woburn is contracted to provide and operate the fleet of four Blue Bird Transhuttle vehicles built in 1999 with a 10 -year useful life. Each bus seats 24 people, is fully accessible for per- sons with special needs, and is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The LEXPRESS transit guide is updated annually and mailed to residents. It is also available at public facili- ties. Fares can be paid in cash, with tickets, or by monthly /annual passes. Reduced rates are in effect for seniors, persons with special needs and children under six. In addition to fares and an annual appropriation by Town Meeting, LEXPRESS is funded by an annual grant from the MBTA and Transportation Demand Management funds. — LEXPRESS connects to the MBTA, Burlington B -Line, and Lowell Regional Transit. continued on next page Page 36 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington DPW: Transportation Services continued from previous page Front L -R: Sara Arnold, Bill Levison, Francine Stieglitz. Rear L -R: Gail Wagner, Eric Eid- Reiner, Sally Castleman, Elaine Dratch. • Transportation Demand Management: Under the terms of their Transportation Demand Management programs, the Hayden Medical Center, the Hayden Corporate Center, and the Lexington Technology Park make annual contributions to LEXPRESS. Met State /Avalon will com- mence annual LEXPRESS contributions upon the start of site development. The Transportation Advisory Committee actively promotes Transportation Demand Management programs for other corporations to reduce dependence on private automobiles by providing trans- portation alternatives, including funding LEXPRESS. Developments accepted by Town Meeting in 2005 that included Transportation Demand Management condi- tions are the Battle Green Inn and 1075 Waltham Street. • Traffic Safety Advisory Support: Transportation Coordinator is a staff liaison to the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee. Water /Sewer Divisions ROLE: To serve the needs and concerns of its customers, sustain quality drinking water, and provide for the safe and proper dis- charge of wastewater by maintaining the Town's com- plete water and sewer infra- structure and implementing various service programs. Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $ 735,819 $11,390,473 $ 819,098 $10,190,680 Personnel Full Time 15 15 Superintendent: Dennis Meehan since January 2004. The infrastructure consists of 158 miles of water main, two water towers with total capacity of 3.1 million gallons, ° 1500 fire hydrants, 3400 street and hydrant control valves and approximately 12,500 residential service line control 0 valves located on property lines. Four main water transmis- sion lines from the MWRA serve Lexington: a 16 -inch main at Summer Street, a 16 -inch main on Massachusetts Avenue in East Lexington, a 12 -inch main on Watertown Street, and a 24 -inch main on Concord Avenue. The sewer system has 120 miles of sewer main, 34 miles of trunk -line sewer main, and ten sewer pump stations, includ- ing the main pump station at Route 128 and Bedford Street, and 600 sewer manholes. The department is divided into four sections: water distrib- ution, meter reading and billing; sewer maintenance; and construction. Employees are cross - trained to perform all divisional functions and also participate in snow removal operations. Water Distribution Section responds to service calls from residents, repairs curb and water control boxes, reads and installs water meters, takes water samples, performs hydrant maintenance, and maintains and updates the water control valve locations; oversees the cross - connection con- trol program; investigates all water bill complaints; marks out services for contractors and utility companies; and assists the Engineering and other DPW Divisions. The water distribution system is usually flushed annually to ensure quality drinking water. The system was flushed this year over a 6 -week period from early November into December. Water is tested for coliform and other bacterial organisms on a weekly basis at nine different sampling loca- tions; no bacteria were detected. Sampling is also done annually at selected locations to test for lead and copper. The September 2005 test results for lead and copper show that Lexington passed. Leak detection, normally done every other year was com- pleted in 2004 and will be done again in 2006. Meter Reading and Billing Section is responsible for read- ing water meters and managing the billing system. In 2005 a new utility manager position was created under the Finance Director to oversee the billing process and handle problems and complaints. Sewer Maintenance Section maintains the sewer system of 154 miles of pipe and ten pump stations, implements the sewer main flushing program, and manages the pump sta- tion maintenance program to ensure the safe and proper discharge of wastewater. Staff is also available to identify any electrical problems with relay or pressure switches. They also assist the Highway Division with clearing storm drain blockages with the use of the department's Jet -Vac truck. continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 37 DPW: Water /Sewer Divisions continued from previous page Construction Section is responsible for the lead water ser- vice replacement program, installing new mainline and ser- vice line control valves where needed, and replacing defec- tive control valves. They also oversee replacements of hydrants, sewer mains and services, and repair water system and sewer system leaks. Employees attended training seminars on cross - connection control, MWRA procedures for drinking water sampling, hydrant maintenance, and courses relating to the State cer- tification exams. Seven employees are State - certified Drinking Water Facility Operators; one is a Grade 4, three are Grade 3, one is a Grade 2, and two are a Grade 1. One employee is a State - certified backflow tester and four are cross - connection surveyors. HIGHLIGHTS • The Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) supplies Lexington with approximately 2 billion gallons of water annually. The Town also pays the MWRA to treat and dispose of the Town's sewage. • The MWRA provided Debt Service Assistance totaling $135,820 in FY05. Since 1994 the Town of Lexington has received $5,870,189 in water and sewer -rate relief. • The policy that allows installation of a second meter for outdoor watering was instituted 11 years ago. Water con- sumed through this meter is charged only at the water rate. To date, 2400 meters have been installed. The rate paid for this water was adjusted to the maximum rate to more accurately reflect its cost and provide fairness to all ratepayers. • Assisted the Engineering Division with the road- resurfac- ing project by providing mark -outs, materials, and emer- gency service. • Responded to emergency water and sewer repairs day and night; keeping service interruptions to a minimum, but breaks were often at times and locations inconvenient to customers and motorists. Repair and Replacements Water main breaks repaired 22 Water service leaks repaired 29 Hydrants repaired 198 Hydrants replaced 8 Service control valves repaired 25 Street control valves repaired 8 Water services renewed 7 Sewer services replaced 7 Sewer services camera televised 12 Sewer main blockages repaired 13 Sewer service blockages repaired 18 Sewer manholes repaired 12 Sewer mains flushed and cleaned 68,000 feet Storm drains flushed and cleaned 15,000 feet New Installations Outdoor watering meters 139 Water meters 220 Water services 32 Sewer services 20 Water and Sewer Rate Study Committee ROLE: To advise the Selectmen regarding the methodol- ogy, structuring, and assumptions made in determining the water and sewer rates; to consider the feasibility of continuing to appropriate funds through the water and sewer enterprise accounts in lieu of tax payments; to examine the strengths and weaknesses of the inclining block rate system and consider the assumptions made to determine the accountability of direct and indirect charges that are part of the rate setting process. The Committee should consider the impact of any recom- mended changes. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Chair Loren Wood, Kathryn Benjamin, Paul Chernick, Lorraine Fournier, Ann Gilbert, Dave Laredo, Jim Osten, Wade Tambor, and Bruce Williams. Selectmen Liaison Richard Pagett. Appropriation Liaisons John Bartenstein and Richard Eurich. DPW Liaisons Bill Hadley and Dennis Meehan. HIGHLIGHTS • Met more than 60 times over 18 months to study the Water and Sewer Enterprises. • Interviewed various experts on legal considerations, MWRA operations, town finance operations and DPW operations. • Conducted a thorough analysis of the budgeting, rate setting, revenues, expenditures, and operations of the Enterprise Funds for water and sewer. • Prepared a written final report consisting of a 50 -page Volume I and a 253 -page Volume II. Volume I con- tained recommendations to the Selectmen, including having a rate structure of three blocks, elimination of depreciation from the rates, phasing out of the PILOTS, quantifying the assessment of indirect charges, and hir- ing a Business Manager. The Selectmen acted favorably on all of these recommendations. Page 38 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Lexington Tree Committee ROLE: To promote the preservation and protection of pub- lic shade trees pursuant to General Law Chapter 87 and cer- tain trees on portions of private property; to work with the Tree Warden to regulate the removal and replacement of trees in certain circumstances; to promote the planting and protection of trees throughout the Town; to develop rules, regulations, tree inventory, manuals, and other data as stat- ed in the Lexington Tree Bylaw for approval and promul- gation by the Selectmen. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Chair John Frey, James Jones, Karen Longeteig, Gerald Paul, Anne Senning, Nell Walker, James Wood; Selectmen Liaison Jeanne Krieger; Tree Warden David Pinsonneault. Susan Solomon resigned to create an opening for Gerald Paul, but is con- tinuing to contribute her time and effort for Tree Committee initiatives. HIGHLIGHTS: • Tree Planting: planted 43 new trees on public land: 17 planted along the bikeway, 15 between the Depot and Grant Street and 2 near Hancock Avenue, as part of the $4420 Mass ReLeaf matching grant applied for in January 2005. As a match, DPW Forestry Division dug and lifted trees into pits, and 27 high school stu- dent and adult volunteers installed watering tubing in each tree pit, then backfilled and watered the trees. DPW with their watering truck watered the trees via the tubing throughout the dry summer. 6 trees planted at the High School with money raised from donations as part of the ongoing LHS PTSA volunteer landscaping effort. 3 Princeton Elms and one London Plane tree planted by the DPW Forestry Division at the Lexington Historical Society's renovated Depot Building as part of the annual Arbor Day Ceremony, staged by the Civic Improvement Committee of the Lexington Field and Garden Club, who distributed 600 tree seedlings to participants, nursery school children and all kindergarteners in Town. The Lexington Historical Society's landscape contractor donated automatic irrigation for these 4 trees. The well- attended ceremony received a 2005 silver cup award from the Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts. 16 trees, funded from a $1000 NSTAR grant, planted on public land by the DPW Forestry Division, who also removed 119, pruned 150, and treated 23 trees in 2005. — Neither a line item for tree planting, nor the Tree Committee's $15,000 Warrant Article 17 for tree plant- ing was approved at the 2005 Town Meeting. The Tree Warden is requesting an additional $25,000 in the FY07 "needs" budget. • Tree Bylaw: Reviewed permit applications for tree removal on private land under the Tree Bylaw. Since October 1, 2001, a total of 418 sites have been visited: 289 sites have been closed out, of which 242 sites required no action. 479 trees were approved for removal, of which 212 have been removed to date. As mitigation: 1115 new trees required to be planted; 486 now planted. Layout was changed at several sites to save large trees. Process continues to run smoothly. • DCR Planning and Education Grant: Applied for and received a Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) grant in the amount of $19,660: about a third for tree inventory support, another third for an edu- cational town -wide mailer, and the rest for an educational six lecture series for Lexington and surrounding towns. • Tree Inventory: In 2004, last year the Committee and vol- unteers inventoried 448 trees in public ways on paper forms and then typed the data into a laptop computer. This year, they recorded 624 trees with one iPAQ, shut- tled between various teams, then entered the data by merely plugging the iPAQ into the laptop. This year's inventory covered the rest of the area in the Center that had been converted to a GIS database. To proceed further, continued on next page L -R: James Jones, David Pinsonneault, Anne Senning, John Frey, Longeteig, the John C. Eddison Memorial Sugar Maple, Gerald Paul, Solomon, Jeanne Krieger, Nell Walker and James Wood. Karen Susan 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 39 Lexington Tree Committee continued from previous page the MIS and Engineering Departments will need to do more map conversion from CAD to GIS. • Tree City USA: Tree Warden applied for and received the Tree City USA award for the 16th year. Two Committee members accepted the award at a State House ceremony in Boston. DCR awarded the Committee chairman a "2005 Outstanding Citizen Forester Award" at a November ceremony in Petersham. • Memorial Tree Fund: Prepared a color brochure explain- ing the procedure for donating a memorial /honorary tree to the Town; now available for all who wish to com- memorate a person or an event, or just do a good deed. Brochures can be picked up at the Library, DPW Barn or from the publications rack outside the Clerk's office in the Town Office Building. • TM Warrant Articles: Presented Articles 16 and 18, which were approved by the 2005 Town Meeting and the Attorney General. They allow funds, from mitigation under the Tree Bylaw and from contributions for Memorial Trees, to be paid into and disbursed from a tree revolving fund called the Lexington Tree Fund. • Community Outreach: — "Tree Talk," a series of articles about trees by commit- tee members, is being published monthly in the Lexington Minuteman newspaper. Topics already pub- lished: History of Trees in Lexington, Bittersweet and Other Invasive Plants, Memorial Tree Program. Yet to come: Propagating Trees, The Tree Inventory, Protecting Trees during Construction, and more. — Presented a talk on the tree inventory to 40 members of the Lexington Field & Garden Club. — Lobbied the Battle Green Inn developers to plan for trees on Waltham Street using structural soil technical specifications and /or a tree -way design as done at Depot Square in 2002. — One committee member published a report on the inventory process, the history of tree management in Lexington, and suggested tree management standards. She gave the report to the Town Manager, the Selectmen, the DPW, the Cary Memorial Library, and the Lexington Historical Society. — Talked with Sidewalk Committee about co- existence of trees and sidewalks. Permanent Building Committee Expenditures FY 05 FY 04 Project Management $253,231 $322,448 Architects $530,531 $385,204 Contractors $7,046,735 $9,356,045 ROLE: To provide ongoing expertise and experience in man- aging the design and construction of all town building pro- jects, including hiring of design professionals, obtaining bids, and entering into contracts for design and construction. APPOINTED by the Town Manager for 3 -year overlapping terms: Chair Philip Poinelli, Vice Chair Jonathan Himmel, Richard Perry, Peter Johnson, and Mary Lou Touart. APPOINTED by the School Committee: Bruce Creager and Richard Sperandio. APPOINTED by the Library: Walter Pierce. HIGHLIGHTS • Opened the new Harrington Elementary School. Though the school opened later than originally planned, a quality school has been constructed and the project was accom- plished under budget. • The old Fiske School was demolished and the new Fiske Elementary School was bid and began construction. As of the end of the year, the project is approximately 35% com- plete. Most of the old building was recycled rather than treated as construction waste. Fiske students are currently attending school at the old Harrington School. • A feasibility study was conducted for the School Administration Building known as The White House. The study was approved by the committee and presented to the spring Town Meeting. Design fees were appropriated and the design for additions and renovations are underway. • Town meeting appropriated design fees for a new DPW facility to replace the existing facility at 201 Bedford Street. The design is anticipated to get underway shortly. • The PBC developed a "Sustainable Design Policy" for review by the Board of Selectmen. The Selectmen approved the policy, which calls for all construction pro- jects to set a goal of LEED Silver as defined by the Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design program. LEED certification recognizes innovative building designs that are environmentally responsible for energy efficiency and resource conservation. • The committee conducts regularly scheduled monthly meetings with additional meetings as necessary. All pro- jects are supervised by the PBC through the Project Manager Bill Kealy, Clerk of Works Gary Kaczmarek, and Secretary Cara Shapiro. Page 40 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Electric Utility Ad Hoc Committee ROLE: To evaluate the options available to Lexington to improve the reliability and reduce the cost of electrical service. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Chair Paul Chernick, Nick Cannalonga, Emily Donovan, Ingrid Klimoff, Patrick Mehr, Kelly McKay Zeoli and David Pavlik (DPW). Selectmen Liaison Norman Cohen with the assistance of Mary Beth Gentleman and Peter Enrich. Roger Borghesani resigned and then became the liaison from Capital Expenditures Committee. HIGHLIGHTS • Continued efforts to reduce electricity bills for municipal accounts, especially through energy efficiency; to reduce the number of double poles; and to create the option of forming a municipal electric distribution system. • Met with utilities, town staff, other municipalities, and State officials. • Assisted the DPW in evaluating power - supply offers for town accounts. • Continued to pressure the utilities to account for and promptly remove double poles in Lexington. • Increased public and official awareness of problems with reliability of electric service in Lexington and surrounding towns. • Worked with Jay Kaufman to revise and re -file legislation to simplify and clarify the process of municipalization, including a home -rule petition allowing Lexington to form a municipal utility. Continued outreach and public- educa- tion efforts in support of these bills. Sidewalk Committee ROLE: To advise the Board of Selectmen on sidewalk policies and walking in Lexington. In developing recommendations, the Committee seeks broad citizen input to support and encourage implementation of the recommendations of the Transportation Element of the Comprehensive Plan for increasing pedestrian activity and reducing traffic by consid- ering the adequacy of the town -wide sidewalk network to safely address the Town's recreation and commuter needs. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen for 3 -year terms, commencing March 2005. Committee was created by the Board of Selectmen at its meeting on November 29, 2004. Membership includes 20 voting members: Chair Craig Weeks (PTA), Lisa Baci (Neighborhood), Sue -Ellen Briggs (PTA), Victoria Buckley (Commission on Disability), Frank Cavatora (Neighborhood), Laura Cecere (PTA), Judy Crocker (PTA), John Davies (Planning Board), Lucy Fletcher - Jones (PTA), Ankur Gupta (PTA), Olga Guttag (School Committee), Tracey Herbert (PTA), Jerry Van Hook (Bicycle Committee), Jeanne Kreiger (Board of Selectmen), Steve Kropper (Resident), Marianne Lazarus (Resident), Stephanie Mitzenmacher (Neighborhood), Sue Solomon (League of Women Voters), Jean Williams (Resident) and an open seat (Board of Health). Significantly contributing Town of Lexington staff: Wayne Brooks (DPW), Paul Jenkins (Police Department), Francine Stieglitz (Transportation Advisory Committee) and Gail Wagner (Transportation Coordinator). HIGHLIGHTS • Compiled a comprehensive inventory of the Town's side- walks and pathways, detailing locations, lengths, condi- tions and obstructions. This data has been logged into the Lexington DPW database, including associating the data with school districts. It has also been mapped using color - coding for sidewalk quality. Both the data and the map are available for viewing and downloading from the Sidewalk Committee website. • Created a website, updated monthly, to keep the public updated on activities and plans for future work. This web - site is accessed through the Town of Lexington website at http: / /ci.lexington .ma.us /lexsidewalkcommittee / • Created an email address to receive public commentary on the committee's activities to receive suggestions and com- ments about public safety issues related to sidewalks and pathways. A team keeps a log of all emails and forwards the emails, as necessary, to the appropriate town depart- ment for action. • Successfully piloted the Safe Routes to School program at the Bridge Elementary School. Initial results in September were a 50% reduction in car traffic and 100% increase in walkers. Excellent parental support made the program succeed by both identifying commonly used routes to school and garnering neighborhood and community sup- port for the program. • Began planning for system -wide Safe Routes to Schools programs. • Recommended to the Lexington Planning Board that side- walks for the proposed Battle Green Inn development and other town center sidewalks have a minimum 4 -foot wide section of brushed concrete running the length of the side- walk connecting to all store entrances and exits as well as curb cuts and street access points to provide safe, conve- nient access to all users during all seasons. This recom- mendation was also passed along to the Design Advisory Committee and Lexington Center Collaborative. • Published newspaper articles and letters that describe the responsibilities of the Town and private property owners relative to public rights of way (the 4 -10 or more feet along each road and street that many people think of as exclusively under their control), discuss snow manage- ment as it relates to school bus routes and walking access continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Sidewalk Committee continued from previous page to schools and Lexington Center and promoting more accessible public rights of way. • Requested that the Planning Department and Planning Board designate any mitigation money from the potential redevelopment of 40 Middleby Road for the repair and /or reconstruction of the bicycle and footpath leading from Worthen Road to Middleby Road. Apart from its recre- ational uses, the path is an important link in the Safe Routes to School program at Bridge School, and in mak- ing Lincoln Field and Lexington High School accessible to neighborhood walkers. The Recreation Committee asked the Sidewalk Committee to make a recommendation that improvements to this path be given high priority. • Recommended to the Selectmen and Town Manager that a capital appropriation of $200,000 be made annually for the restoration and building of sidewalks within the Town. • Provided the DPW with a recommended priority for snow plowing of sidewalks within the Bridge Elementary District to support the Safe Routes to Schools program to increase safety at pickup and drop -off points of school bus routes. Included in this recommendation was a list of side- walks and pathways for priority repair. • Worked with the DPW, Bridge PTA, and crosswalk neigh- bors to make cross walks on Marrett Road and Spring Street more visible during school hours using removable crosswalk markers similar to those used in the Center. To avoid theft and vandalism of these markers, volunteers secure them at the side of each crosswalk once school children get home. • Requested that the DPW evaluate the feasibility of installing a new crosswalk section connecting the existing sidewalk on Marrett Road to the existing sidewalk at the top of Prospect Hill Road. If construction is feasible, the Committee would recommend a capital appropriation to build a sidewalk along that narrow, steep section of Prospect Hill Road which is presently unsafe but heavily used by students traveling to and from Clarke Middle School and Bridge Elementary School. II 1 Front L -R: Marianne Lazarus, Craig Weeks, Lucy Fletcher Jones, Sue Ellen Briggs. Rear L -R: Steve Kropper, Jean Williams, Wayne Brooks, Olga Guttag, John Davies, Jeanne Krieger, Jerry Van Hook. 0 0 6u! egel 'S pined Page 42 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington EDUCATION School Committee Expenditures Operating Expenses Capital Expenses FY05 $66,881,946 $ 770,000 FY04 $62,787,454 $ 1,900,000 "Operating expenses exclude prior year's carry forward encum- brances. For FY05 they include the additional funds voted at the Special Town Meeting in November for FY05 unpaid bills.. Personnel 829.04 FTEs 800.23 FTEs ROLE: To hire, supervise and evaluate the Superintendent of Schools; to develop school policies; to approve operat- ing and capital budgets for the schools; to advocate for school concerns to other town officials, boards, and the community; to act as liaison between the School Department and the community. ELECTED to 3 -year terms: Chair Helen Cohen, Vice Chair Tom Diaz, Scott Burson, Tom Griffiths, Olga Guttag; Student Representative Toni Maeck. The School Superintendent Interim Superintendent William Hurley, an experienced school superintendent and a Lexington resident, directed the school system throughout FY05, and is to be com- mended for providing leadership through the transition year. The search for a new superintendent was completed in the late winter with the appointment of Dr. Paul Ash. A search committee consisting of School Committee members Helen Cohen and Tom Diaz and representatives of administration, faculty, parents, and community worked with Future Management Systems and their consultants Richard Warren and Lyle Kirtman. The position was advertised nationwide and approximately 30 applications were received. The list was narrowed to seven semi - finalists whom the search com- mittee interviewed. The School Committee held public interviews with the four finalists; Tom Diaz and Olga Guttag went with other members of the search committee for site visits for three candidates. The vote was unanimous and enthusiastic to hire Dr. Ash who had been Superintendent in Westwood for seven years and Assistant Superintendent in Wellesley for several years before that. Dr. Ash came officially to Lexington on July 1, though he worked in the months preceding that date to hire four new administrators. He has worked hard and effectively to strengthen and lead the school system. Details of his work are in the Superintendent's report. The Committee is cur- rently working on an evaluation process for the Superintendent. School Policies The Committee adopted a new Life- Threatening Allergies Policy. The Policy Subcommittee, chaired by Scott Burson, is completing work on a field trip policy, and will work on a fund - raising policy next. The Committee publicly affirmed its policy that Lexington Public Schools should be safe, inclusive, and a welcoming environment for all Lexington students. Operating Budget The School Committee's understanding of the FY05 budget and expenses at the end of June was that the year was end- ing $2000 in the black. When Dr. Ash and the new Director for Finance Ann Giombetti studied the books, they discov- ered that $528,178 of unpaid bills remained from FY05, and that because the current year's budget was inadequate, there would be a shortfall of over $1.5 million in the FY06 budget. In consultation with administrators, Dr. Ash cut $414,700 from the budget and raised lunch fees (which had not been increased for ten years) by $1, leaving a shortfall of $847,396. A major factor in these problems was the lack of communi- cation that resulted from the high number of turnovers in administrations and central office administrative personnel over the last few years. The School Committee has imple- mented a new reporting process with Dr. Ash that will pro- vide sufficient information in the future. The School Committee and Dr. Ash consulted with the Board of Selectmen, the new Town Manager Carl Valente, and the Appropriation Committee about these financial issues. Two articles were placed on the warrant for the Special November Town Meeting, one to pay the $528,178 deficit from FY05, and one to appropriate $847,396 in additional funds for FY06. Both articles were passed unan- imously, with the understanding that the additional funds would be spent only on specifically identified accounts in deficit, and that excess funds, if any, would be returned to the Town. The Schools, like other town departments, face serious chal- lenges in drawing up the FY07 budget. Another large increase in health benefit payments, reductions in federal funding, increased utility costs, and State and Federal man- dated but unfunded requirements mean that even a level - service budget will be well over the limits of Proposition 2- 1/2. To restore and strengthen school programs, additional money will be needed. The School Committee and adminis- tration will continue to work with the Selectmen and the finance committees to study these budget implications. continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 43 School Committee continued from previous page Capital The beautiful new Harrington School opened in April and is serving its students and staff well. The project appears to be coming in at or below budget. Construction on the Fiske School is underway with September 2007 the targeted opening date. The new Director of Facilities, William Hartigan, has been carrying out thorough inventories of all school buildings so that effective planning for maintenance, renovation, and /or replacement of the buildings can be done. The plan for the four remaining elementary schools, Bowman, Bridge, Estabrook, and Hastings, will depend in part on his find- ings. Mr. Hartigan has studied the roofs and ventilation sys- tems of all nine buildings, and emergency repairs will be done through this fiscal year and next summer. The April Town Meeting passed an article funding the design for renovating the School Administration Building (the White House). This phase is underway. Liaison to Community and Advocate for the Lexington Public Schools Lexington provides an excellent education for its students, and the School Committee looks forward to a stable, strong, and dynamic era in the schools. Thanks go to the students, the faculty, the administration, the parents, the PTAs, the town leadership, and the Town for their success. Working with the Superintendent, better, more frequent, and more thoroughly developed communications are being created including an active website that will include the entire budget book for citizens to study, in addition to Committee minutes and news. The aim of the School Department and the School Committee is an education for the children and youth of this community that will prepare them for a productive, responsible, healthy and fulfilling adulthood in our complex world. L -R: Tom Griffiths, Tom Diaz, Helen Cohen, Scott Burson, Olga G u ttag. Lexington Public School Enrollments Elementary Schools Bowman, 9 Philip Road, built 1967 Bridge, 55 Middleby Road, built 1966 Estabrook, 117 Grove Street, built 1960 Fiske, 34A Colony Road, built 1948 Harrington, 146 Maple Street, built 1956 Hastings, 2618 Mass. Avenue, built 1955 Total Elementary Students, Grades K -5 Middle Schools Clarke, 17 Stedman Road, built 1972 Diamond, 99 Hancock Street, built 1957 Total Middle School Students, Grades 6 -8 Lexington High School, 251 Waltham Street, built 1950 Michael Jones, Principal Total High School Students, Grades 9 -12 Steven Flynn, Principal Barbara Manfredi, Principal Joni Jay, Principal Nancy Peterson, Principal David Crump, Principal Steven Adler, Principal Pamela Houlares, Principal Joanne Hennessy, Principal 2005 -2006 2005 -2006 2006 -2007 Projected Actual Projected 438 514 457 383 369 481 2642 713 818 1531 2000 2000 457 458 551 540 455 446 362 339 389 388 486 480 2700 2651 713 731 804 824 1517 1555 1979 1981 1979 1981 Total Student Enrollment 6173 6196 6187 Page 44 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington 0 0 bupgEl S pinEa Superintendent of Schools ROLE: As Chief Executive Officer of Lexington's nine pub- lic schools, the Superintendent of Schools provides educa- tional leadership through budget preparation, program development, and supervision of all academic, special edu- cation, and extracurricular programs for children in grades K -12. The Superintendent reports to an elected School Committee, enforces the policies and goals of this Committee, and upholds the laws and requirements deter- mined by the federal government and Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Superintendent also works in coopera- tion with other communities to oversee collaborative pro- grams for students with identified learning disabilities. APPOINTED by the School Committee: William Hurley, Interim Superintendent until June 30; Dr. Paul B. Ash Superintendent since July 1. Hiring a New Central Office Team In the spring, four new central office administrators were hired to start work on July 1. They replaced four adminis- trators who either sought other employment or held tem- porary interim positions. Dr. Ash, while still the Superintendent of Schools in Westwood, worked with Interim Superintendent William Hurley, Lexington school administrators, faculty members, and parents to hire Dr. Lynne Celli Sarasin as the Deputy Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction and Professional Development; Dr. Mary Sullivan Kelley as the Director of Student Services; Ann Giombetti as the Director of Finance and Operations; and Carol Gregory as the Director of Human Resources. Finance Report In July, the new administration became aware that there were insufficient funds to pay numerous FY05 bills and to meet current FY06 obligations. To address the imbalance between projected costs and funding, in August the admin- istration reduced the FY06 budget by $728,000 by raising lunch fees, not filling some vacant positions, and laying off some teachers. In addition, the Superintendent stated that additional funds would be needed to pay prior year bills and avoid further layoffs in FY06. At a Special Town Meeting held in November, it was unanimously voted to appropriate $524,000 to pay prior year bills and an addi- tional $847,000 for FY06. The School Committee and administration also adopted new procedures for controlling and monitoring the school budget. Curriculum & Instruction Initiatives /Professional Development A strong and active professional development program is essential to quality teaching and learning and ultimately leads to increased student achievement. The Lexington Public Schools is committed to a quality, research -based professional development program. To this end, profession- al development has focused on building Professional Learning Communities and using Action Research to inform instruction and curriculum development. To improve individual and collective results for children, Professional Learning Communities encourage teachers to both collaborate and share leadership with an emphasis on meaningful teamwork, measurable goals, and regular col- lection and analysis of performance data. Through Action Reseach, teams of teachers identify specific curriculum areas or instructional practices that, if modified, will signif- icantly impact student success. The Lexington Public Schools' professional development focus has centered on increasing academic excellence and student achievement. The following guidelines ensure that professional development will: • Be explicitly linked to school and district goals • Support and expand Professional Learning Communities • Expand and strengthen Action Research as a way to respond to and assesses student needs • Provide embedded professional development and other professional development opportunities tied to new cur- riculum and instruction implementations This year the professional development program included: I. Mandated requirements regarding appropriate training in: • Life Threatening Allergies • Sexual Harassment Policy and Procedures • Child Abuse and Neglect Policy and Procedures • Restraint Training Overview II Keynote speaker Douglas B. Reeves, Ph.D., addressed the faculty on the importance of developing Professional Learning Communities: "Accountability for Learning: How Teachers and School Leaders Can Take Charge." Principals and teachers were charged with identifying "Action Research" topics that they would investigate throughout the course of the academic year. III. The K -5 Literacy Initiative continued in its second year of implementation. The goal is to provide every K -5 teacher a substantive background in skills for teaching reading utilizing the Scott Foresman reading program. Six core courses will be offered throughout the school year. IV. In preparation for the NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges) re- accreditation process scheduled for the High School in the year 2008, the High School faculty, with consultants from LEAD New England, is preparing a mission statement and a statement of expectations. Through its research affiliation with Brown University and the participation of member schools, the Commission on Pubic Secondary Schools within the NEASC has developed seven broad standards, each with a set of indicators that establish measurements for effective high schools. Member continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 45 Superintendent of Schools continued from previous page schools are expected to participate in a 10 -year process of improvement culminating with a 4 -day visit from a team of professional educators from around New England. Utilizing a process that includes document review; interviews of teachers, students, administrators, parents, and school com- mittee members; classroom observations; and student shad- owing, this team writes a report that is reviewed by the Commission, which, in turn, makes a decision on the accreditation status of the school. Facilities Report The Facilities Department is responsible for the mainte- nance and operation of nine school buildings and the cen- tral administration building. Bill Hartigan, the new Director of Facilities, conducted an initial facilities needs assessment that determined three school roofs and 187 unit ventilators need to be replaced next summer. At the November Special Town Meeting, the school administra- tion presented its plan to develop bid specifications and provide actual costs to Annual Town Meeting in the spring. The Facilities Department is currently developing a preven- tive maintenance program for the 2005 -2006 school year. Student Achievement Lastly, Lexington students continue to achieve at very high levels, based on local standards and on national examina- tions. Lexington High School Class of 2005 Size of class 436 Continuing education 94.3% 4 -year college 90.4% 2 -year college 1 8% Other schooling 2 1% Undecided 3 8% Employment 1 4% Armed Services 0 5% National Merit Scholarship Program Semi - finalists 12 Letters of Commendation 44 National Merit Finalists 12 2004 -05 Advanced Placement Awards AP Scholars 58 AP Scholars with Honors 42 AP Scholars with Distinction 57 AP National Scholars 8 Lexington Public Schools 2004 -05 Summary of Outside Funding These funds enable the school system to provide services beyond the scope of the regular budget. The total below does not include PTA and other support group fundraising estimated annually at $250,000. Each of these grants or fees is put into a separate revenue account with the Town Treasurer, and the funds are spent on the approved items not included in the Town appropriated school budget. FEDERAL Title I $ 292,526 Special Education Professional Development $ 32,851 Drug -Free Community Support $ 75,000 SPED 94- 142 /IDEA $ 1,250,458 Early Childhood /Mainstreaming for Pre - School $ 41,691 Title V Instruction /Technology $ 11,395 Title IIA Educator Quality $ 115,789 Title IID Technology Integration $ 11,886 Title III Limited English Proficient $ 43,710 Title IV Drug Free Schools $ 23,783 Total Federal Funds $ 1,899,089 STATE METCO $ 1,253,350 Enhanced School Health $ 116,282 Academic Support Services $ 3,879 Total State Funds $ 1,373,511 LOCAL Lexington Education Foundation (FY05) $ 228,914 FEES Transportation $ 529,994 Athletics and Athletics Gate Receipts $ 276,919 Building Rental and Extended Day Program $ 62,383 Medicaid Reimbursement $ 77,014 Total Fees $ 946,310 COMMUNITY, CORPORATE, AND PRIVATE DONATIONS Gifts to Schools $ 40,085 GRAND TOTAL ALL SOURCES $ 4,487,090 Page 46 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington School Expenditures by Line Item Personnel & Benefits Administrative Offices Principals and Assistants 2000 -2001 2001-2002" 2002-2003" 2003-2004" 2004 -2005 $816,988 1,502,467 $684,378 1,987,930 $721,297 2,090,203 $809,334 1,976,031 $861,712 2,199,756 Sub -toal Administration $2,319,455 $2,672,308 $2,811,500 $2,785,365 $3,061,468 "All LEA Personnel * * " $35,082,375 Supervisors /Coordinators $1,177,467 $1,117,301 $1,123, 882 $1,168,217 Classroom Teachers 21,606,373 27,251,897 29,074,667 29,355,732 Instructional Materials Specialists 588 195 651,114 705,482 747,672 (Library) Guidance Counselors 1,187,769 1,239,381 1,365,484 1,387,189 Psychologists 236,007 341,650 359,740 396,335 * Social Workers * 114,965 103,071 239,896 Nurses 420,431 482,925 491,307 543,926 "Severance Pay 208,069 * * * * "Special Needs Staff 4,289,110 >; * * Instructional Assistants (Tutors) 1,630,279 1,667,568 1,448,020 1,766,974 1,896,028 Building Aides /Clerical 909,485 1,128,742 1,166,446 1,082,237 954,889 Admin. Assistants & Secretaries 1,576,669 1,587,203 1,711,844 1,680,520 1,678,455 " Coaches /Officials 510,280 545,995 443,599 473,948 Stipends (Extra Duty) 184,098 81,951 144,167 151,097 143,565 "Special Needs Assistants 295,853 Sub -total Curriculum & Instruction $34,309,805 $36,174,977 $36,036,954 $38,963,394 $40,229,260 Nurse Substitutes * $10,633 $10,295 $9,341 $14,462 "Admin. Assists. & Secretary * 20,989 27,681 24,265 34,170 Substitute "Doctors 1,200 >; >; * Computer Technicians /Facilitators 243,097 521,321 532,844 510,483 390,391 Custodians and Maintenance Staff 2,061,354 1,975,248 2,065,590 2,139,312 2,088,695 "Custodian Overtime * 405,304 297,999 48,124 176,800 Crossing Guards 90,869 97,887 114,232 103,962 109,334 "Sick Leave Buy Back * 14,500 * Student Programmers 0 '' '' '' Sub -total Operations & Maintenance $2,396,520 $3,045,882 $3,048,641 $2,835,487 $2,813,852 Workers' Compensation $2,477 $0 $0 $0 $0 FICA /Medicare Tax 380,703 441,980 488,828 511,814 546,890 Employee Benefits 4,100,633 5,646,707 6,770,091 8,311,132 9,088,431 Sub -total Benefits $4,483,813 $6,088,687 $7,258,919 $8,822,946 $9,635,321 Sub -total Personnel & Benefits $43,509,593 $47,981,854 $51,359,165 $53,407,192 $55,739,901 "Due to a change in Department of Education reporting requirements and the installation of new Town /School intergrat- ed financial software, the School Dept. Chart of Accounts has been updated and some accounts consolidated continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 47 School Expenditures by Line Item continued from previous page Services, Supplies & Equipment 2000 -2001 2001-2002" 2002-2003" 2003-2004" 2004 -2005 Printing $33,101 $6,309 $10,671 $4,668 $9,703 Police /Security * 3,970 7,028 3,999 3,643 Professional Services * 390,680 551,708 615,101 790,782 Office Supplies 130,047 137,280 126,903 93,477 102,573 Report Cards /Progress Reports 2,543 * * * Handbooks 7,896 '' Membership 32,237 '' '' >; "Newsletter 806 >; >; >; * Sub -total Administrative Services $206,630 $538,239 $696,310 $717,245 $906,701 & Supplies Consultant Services $807,624 $501,189 $253,981 $101,686 $152,046 Consultant Services for Students * 488 749 388 425 511,595 691,741 "Special Testing 44,472 * * Meeting Expenses * 1,730 1,903 * "Professional Expenses 132,300 138,252 124,460 167,289 "Periodicals and Newspapers 17,195 * * * "Recruiting Materials 45,454 * >; >; * "Professional Books /Subscriptions 6,692 * * * "Student Publications 8,571 * "Film Rental 525 '' Equipment Rental 17,068 35,523 44,303 '' "Building Rental '' 93,870 47,066 84,101 15,067 Teaching Supplies 389,691 470,757 474,282 369,744 746,760 Textbooks 478,785 285,613 316,247 183,517 179,553 "School Based Initiatives * 49,549 39,115 6,994 Library Books and Cataloging 56,192 52,444 73,085 53,482 54,526 Computer Software 62,691 66,210 49,074 30,571 16,576 "Instructional Media * 18,072 18,960 5,588 0 Media Purchase 17,715 * * * * "Staff Travel * 67,993 102,400 31,763 31,600 Travel and Meetings Intrastate 29,014 * * * Travel Out of State 2,452 ' Travel Within Lexington 13,137 '' '' '' '' Field Trips 7,917 4,911 10,022 1,935 1,441 Other Transportation 142,737 156,104 159,980 155,774 185,237 Sub -total Instructional Services $2,147,932 $2,425,014 $2,117,095 $1,661,210 $2,241,836 & Supplies Tuition Day /Resident $2,570,443 $2,505,883 $2,667,052 $2,624,832 $2,710,703 Sub -total Special Education Tuition $2,570,443 $2,505,883 $2,667,052 $2,624,832 $2,710,703 "Due to a change in Department of Education reporting requirements and the installation of new Town /School intergrat- ed financial software, the School Dept. Chart of Accounts has been updated and some accounts consolidated continued on next page Page 48 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington School Expenditures by Line Item continued from previous page Pupil Transportation - Regular "Pupil Transportation -SPED "Pupil Transportation - Special Needs, in Town "Pupil Transportation - Special Needs, outside 2000 -2001 2001-2002" 2002-2003" 2003-2004" 2004 -2005 $854,236 208,110 232,317 $991,992 543,760 $948,078 594,228 * * $880,502 684,556 * * $1,010,820 697,737 Sub -total Support Services $1,294,663 $1,535,752 $1,542,306 $1,565,058 $1,708,557 "Facilities Services & Repair * $104,623 $104,921 $87,000 $100,842 "Built-in Items /Bldg. Repairs $296,977 '' '' "Electrical (Repairs) 27,354 * * * * "Plumbing (Repairs) 13, 304 * * * * "Heating (Repairs) 122,972 * * * * "Painting 7,174 * * "Roofing (Repairs) 5,573 * >; * "Glass (Repairs) 15,800 * * >; * "Elevator Service and Repair 18,000 * * * "Other Property Services (Repairs) 78,195 "Equipment Service /Maintenance 282,016 604,421 451,070 420,746 165,250 "Mop Rental 9,545 * * * * "Insect Control 2,000 '' Electricity 613,502 704,955 1,005,159 1,012,495 1,179,206 Fuel- Heating 335,987 483,036 269,585 217,707 326,122 Gas (Bottled and Natural) 179,889 83,752 293,355 556,353 578,218 Water Consumption 165,195 38 000 14,482 13,466 38 116 Telephone 172,359 189,549 188,417 152,895 185,871 Other Supplies 201,058 168,385 209,718 107,489 177,631 "Postage & Mailing * 54,199 65,502 50,610 38 149 "Building & Grounds Supplies 475,291 167,161 120,255 121,909 "Repair of Plant (Supplies) 98,932 * * "Repair of Grounds (Supplies) 16,778 Vehicle Parts, Gas, Oil 27,231 25,753 22,872 25,821 42,473 "Other General 490,037 * * * * Sub -total Maintenance $3,179,878 $2,931,964 $2,792,242 $2,764,837 $2,953,787 & Operations Outlay & Replacement of Equipment $75,623 $320,264 $47,080 $92,283 "New Equipment 36 889 '' '' "Replacement of Equipment 135,767 * * * Sub -total Equipment $172,656 $75,623 $320,264 $47,080 $92,283 Sub -total Services, Supplies $9,572,202 $10,012,475 $10,135,269 $9,380,262 $10,613,867 Sc Equipment Personnel & Benefits $43,509,593 $47,981,854 $51,359,165 $53,407,192 $55,739,901 Services, Supplies & Equipment 9,572,202 10,012,475 10,135,269 9,380,262 10,613,867 TOTAL GENERAL FUND $53,081,795 $57,994,329 $61,494,434 $62,787,454 $66,353,768 "Due to a change in Department of Education reporting requirements and the installation of new Town /School intergrat- ed financial software, the School Dept. Chart of Accounts has been updated and some accounts consolidated 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 49 Minuteman Regional High School Expenditures FY 05 FY 04 Payroll $10,046,068 $10,051,717 Expenses $ 5,298,271 $ 5,391,748 Total Budget $15,344,339 $15,443,465 Lexington's Assessed $ 833,267 $ 901,353 Share 774 792 REGIONAL SCHOOL COMMITTEE APPOINTED by each town's Moderator: Marjorie Daggett was appointed in July for a 3 -year term. The other 15 towns that make up the "member towns" are: Acton, Arlington, Belmont, Bolton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Dover, Lancaster, Lincoln, Needham, Stow, Sudbury, Wayland, and Weston. Revised Freshman Program A new Freshman Exploratory program was implemented in the fall 2005 so that 9th graders had the full opportunity to experience each of Minuteman's 22 technical programs before choosing a major. The exploratory program runs for the first half of grade 9 and allows freshmen to develop a better understanding of their talents while exposing them to diverse careers. Enrollment Fifteen Seniors from Lexington High School (in FY05) took elective courses at Minuteman two hours per day (1/3 time); thus 5 students will be added to the total number of stu- dents for the FY06 assessment. Enrollment Oct. 1, 2005 Oct. 1, 2004 Lexington students in Gr. 9 -12 43 36 Lexington Post - Graduate Students (Regular & Special) 9 9 Total students in Gr. 9 -12 from the 16 member towns 472 (+48 PG's) 481 ( +41 PG's) Total students from non - member towns 254 270 Total student enrollment 774 792 The 2005 Fiscal Year The Minuteman FY06 total budget was increased to $15,699,155, and the assessment which Lexington started paying as of July 1, 2005 was $887,667 (based on the 36 students enrolled as of Oct. 1, 2004 plus the students from Lexington High). The FY06 budget represented a 2.31% increase compared with the FY05 budget. The budget increase was due to contractual agreements, health insur- ance, maintenance costs, and needed capital equipment. Challenges Finances: Budgets continue to be tightly controlled because Chapter 70 funding from the State is not overly generous, and transportation aid has varied from 40 to 80 %. (Transportation aid to regional schools is supposed to be funded at 100 %.) The operating budget for FY06 increased due to the cost of health insurance, benefits, utilities, energy in general, and contracted salary increments. Over the summer of 2005, concerns over the excessive length of time students from Carlisle, Stow, Bolton, and Lancaster spent on the bus led to a new computerized management of the bus routes. In addition to the rise in the cost of gasoline, the increased number of students from the member towns have increased transportation costs. The land sale of Minuteman property on Mill Street in Lincoln was canceled at the last moment in July 2004. To make up for the loss of $640,000, the School Committee felt forced to increase the current -year tuition by about $400,000. Lower revenues from the State and from non- member tuition as well as the decision not to sell a Mill Street house in FY05 led to increased use of current -year tuition in both FY05 and FY06. The School Committee is very concerned about this trend and has asked the Superintendent to develop a 5 -year finan- cial plan, so that within five years there will be no need to use current -year. One financial plan will be developed for a school of the current size and another for a smaller school. Some programs may have to be dropped. In addition, the School Committee asked the Superintendent to lay out a multi -year capital plan. The school opened in 1974 and some major 30- year -old equipment must be replaced soon. The School Committee also asked the Minuteman adminis- tration to implement a professional accounting system and to develop professional financial controls. Enrollment: There is increasing enrollment from the mem- ber towns — up 7% over last year and 36% since FY01. Member towns provide only about 66% of the student body. The declines in the out -of- district enrollment reflect those school systems' desire to discourage students from coming to Minuteman, often by offering so- called "equiva- lent courses" at a collaborative. Minuteman's partnership arrangements with Medford and Watertown have contin- ued to be successful. The agreements set out tuition rates and place a cap on the entering number of students as well as a maximum on the total number of students, which allows for better financial planning in the towns. continued on next page Page 50 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Minuteman Regional High School continued from previous page Starting in September, 19 Lexington High seniors began to take a vocational elective for two hours each day at Minuteman. This 3 -year successful collaboration between Lexington High and Minuteman has spread. Both Belmont and Wayland High Schools are sending students to Minuteman for an elective course. Special Ed: More and more Special Needs students are attending Minuteman, thereby placing extra administrative burdens on faculty and staff. So far this challenge has been met with great success. Minuteman has one of the highest levels of special education MCAS "pass" scores in the State. Graduates and Honors • At the 2005 State SkillsUSA conference, Minuteman teacher Jannine Baker was honored as the "Advisor of the Year." In addition, 22 Minuteman students claimed medals 14 gold, 7 silver and 1 bronze. Stephen Willard was honored for Web Design. • At the 2005 graduation, Scott Donahue in Carpentry and William Roome in Drafting and Design Technology received the President's Award for Academic Excellence. Christopher Williams received the President's Award for Academic Achievement in Culinary Arts. Lexington Community Education ROLE: To offer lifelong learning to all by providing practical, creative, and enjoyable educational opportunities at reason- able cost. Courses for adults are offered in three sessions: winter, spring, and fall. Classes are offered Monday through Thursday, with most evening classes held at the High School. Daytime programs are held at the Senior Center and other locations around Town. The summer program, Lexploration, is for students in kindergarten through high school and is taught by Lexington Public School teachers. Lexington Community Education is a self- sustaining, inte- gral part of the Lexington Public School system. STAFF: Director Robin Tartaglia; Assistant Director Andrea Paquette; Administrative Assistant Katharine Gorry- Hines. HIGHLIGHTS: • Registered 3434 people, indicating strong community interest. This number includes all registrations from the three adult education semesters and the summer chil- dren's program. • Offered many new adult classes, including Poetry, Publishing, Keeping Kids Safe Online, Web Design, Haircutting, Getting a Job Over 50, How to Read Music, PowerPoint, and German. • Continued to offer free classes on issues of interest to the community, such as Media Workshop for Families, Social Security, and Identity Theft and Personal Privacy. Over 180 people participated in these classes. • Lexplorations, the summer academic enrichment pro- gram, had 92 weeklong classes and nearly 1100 registra- tions. Classes for students entering kindergarten up to 10th grade included Nemo's World, Espanol Para Pequenos, Creative Hands, Rain Forest, Singapalooza, Wacky Olympics, Flute Fling, Anime, and From Trash to Treasure. Almost 100 high school students volunteered as aides in this program, earning an aggregate of 125 weeks of community service credit. Nearly all summer teachers are Lexington Public School teachers. • Lexplorations scholarship assistance awarded to 20 fam- ilies totaled close to $11,000. • Continued a generous sliding scale tuition reduction pro- gram for 38 ESL students. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 51 LAND USE Planning ROLE: To engage in both short and long term plan- ning in regard to all growth and development issues and pro- posals. Specific duties include: to prepare and implement the Comprehensive Plan; to administer Subdivision Regulations in accordance with state law; to review residential special per- mit applications and unaccepted street applications; to par- ticipate in inter -town land use projects; to provide technical support and hearing functions for major rezoning/develop - ment proposals and on citizen and owner - generated zoning amendments; and to prepare the Planning Board's proposed zoning initiatives and amendments. The Planning Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $167,224 $ 8,188 $178,487 $ 24,932 Personnel Full Time 3.4 3.5 Department also acts as steward of the Zoning Bylaw and Development Regulations, and as the initiator of new policy proposals in housing, land use, and transportation. Other duties include: analyzing economic, demographic, and develop- ment trends in Lexington and the region; assisting the Planning Board, the Town Manager, town departments and appointed committees; and responding to requests for help and information from a wide variety of parties. ELECTED for 3 -year terms: Chair Wendy Manz, Vice Chair Charles Horning, and Clerk Anthony Galaitsis. Thomas Harden is the last of the Board members to be elected to a 5 -year term replacing John Davies. Richard Canale was appointed to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of Karl Kastorf in March. APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Planning Director Maryann McCall - Taylor, Senior Planner Scott Schilt, Planner Eve Tapper, and Department Clerk Elissa Tap. HIGHLIGHTS • Worked with the Housing Partnership Board and consul- tant Phil Herr to draft an accessory apartment by -law to replace the existing provisions. The new by -law, passed by Town Meeting, includes provision for larger units by right and in houses built as recently as five years ago instead of only those houses built prior to 1983. • In April, the Subsidized Housing Inventory surpassed ten percent so the Town is no longer required by the State to issue comprehensive permits for housing developments under Chapter 40B. However, the Board continues its efforts to produce affordable housing and will be submitting an inclusionary housing by -law to next year's Town Meeting. • The Town, along with the other Hanscom Area Town Committee (HATS) communities, participated in pre -Base Realignment and Closure planning. In the end, the Hanscom Air Force Base was not on the list of closures, although there will be some realignment of operations. • Spent considerable time negotiating issues of site design and mitigation with the proponent of the Battle Green Inn redevelopment. The property was rezoned at the special Town Meeting in November, having failed in its first attempt at the Annual Town Meeting. The retail and com- mercial condominiums will include three affordable hous- ing units. • The disposition of surplus state land became a major focus when the Department of Capital Asset Management (DCAM) considered using a fast track auction process for Front L -R: Richard Canale, Charles Hornig, Wendy Manz, Tony Galaitsis. Rear L -R: Elissa Tap, Department Clerk; Eve Tapper, Scott Schilt, Tom Harden; Maryann McCall-Taylor. Lot 1 of the former Middlesex Hospital. Considerable pub- lic outcry, and intervention by the Town and local legislators, resulted in DCAM agreeing to not use a fast track auction to dispose of the site, and to do a site land use study prior to taking any action. There are still legislative efforts underway to control the disposition of state surplus property. • Advised the Zoning Board of Appeals on, and did a site plan review of, the redevelopment of the Jefferson Union factory on Fletcher Avenue. Utilizing the substitution of non - conforming use provision of the Zoning By -Law, the factory use will be replaced by residential condominiums. • The Marrett/Spring/Bridge intersection is being studied using a consultant funded by Patriot Partners as part of their miti- gation package for the redevelopment of the former continued on next page Page 52 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington 6uHagel S pined :ologd Planning Board continued from previous page Raytheon site. Phase 1, an intensive public review of the pos- sible options at the intersection, culminated in a public meet- ing with more than 90 participants. Phase 2 is in process. • Working with the Housing Partnership, the Board has drafted an inclusionary zoning amendment to be present- ed at the 2006 Town Meeting. • Inter -town and regional involvement included work on Scenic Byway designation for the Battle Road, a grant for a Heritage Landscape inventory, and ongoing MAGIC sub - regional planning efforts. • Began a review of planning policies and guidelines, adopt- ing a policy on naming of streets and guidelines for reduced frontage subdivisions. Conventional Subdivisions — Rowland Avenue Extension, 2 lots, definitive plan approved — Wisteria Lane, off Colony Road, 3 lots, definitive plan approved — 112 Laconia Street, Solly's Way, 2 lots, definitive plan approved — 176 Cedar Street, 14 lots, preliminary plan approved — 1359 Massachusetts Avenue, 1 lot, 2 sketch plans — 61 Walnut Street (former Midddlesex County Hospital), 19 units, sketch plan — 177 Grove Street, 4 units, definitive plan, followed by sketch plan for a cluster — 48 Summit Road — asked to submit a second prelimi- nary plan, time in which to act expired, and the appli- cation for approval was denied without prejudice Reduced Frontage Subdivisions - 40 Middleby Road, 2 lots, sketch plan Cluster Subdivision - 31 -35 Cary Avenue, definitive plan approved Approval Not Required Plan Endorsements — 27 Elliot Street — 169 North Street — 67 -69 Woburn Street — 330 Woburn Street /Lexington Street — Hayes Lane and Fletcher Avenue — 33 and 29 Prospect Hill Road — Piper Road — 20 Slocum Road Determinations of Adequacy of Grade and Construction — 33 Wachusett Drive — 21 Fairland Street — Candlewick Close — 17 Clelland Road — 14 Bird Hill Road Comprehensive Permits (40B and LIP) — Piper Road — only preliminary inquiries, never filed — Grandview Avenue — reviewed by Board, denied by the Zoning Board of Appeals; negotiations among the applicant and the abutters are ongoing. Board of Appeals Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $ 0 $ 0 $33,920 $ 0 Personnel Full -time 0 1 ROLE: To grant variances from the Zoning Bylaw, issue special permits for uses or construction as authorized by the Zoning Bylaw, and hear appeals of decisions by the Building Commissioner and Zoning Enforcement Officer. Front L -R: Maura Sheehan, John McWeeney, Arthur Smith, Dianne Cornaro, Leo McSweeney, Nyles Barnert. Rear L -R Daniel Lucas, Martha Wood, Carolyn Wilson. APPOINTED by the Selectmen as a quasi- judicial board consisting of five members with six associate members: Chair Judith Uhrig, Vice Chairman Arthur Smith, Clerk John McWeeney Nyles Barnert and Maura Sheehan. Associates David Williams, Carolyn Wilson, Martha Wood, Daniel Lucas, John Gilbert and Leo McSweeney. Administrative Clerk Dianne Cornaro. continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 53 0 0 bupgEl S pinEa Board of Appeals continued from previous page HIGHLIGHTS • Conducted 68 hearings. • Reviewed 36 applications for variances, and 26 applica- tions for Special Permits, 3 special permit renewals, 1 revision of a Special Permit, 1 modification of a Special Permit. • Overturned 2 appeals from Building Commissioner and Zoning Enforcement Officer decisions. • Heard 1 petition for a Special Permit with Site Plan Review on projects approved by the Annual Town Meeting. 2005 Hearings Address of Hearing: 10 Grove Street 10 Maguire Road 107 Woburn Street 109 Bow Street 12 Smith Avenue 125 Worthen Road 13 White Pine Lane 1361 Mass. Ave. 14 Sherman Street 1430 Mass. Ave. 16 Hayden Avenue 1666 Massachusetts Avenue 17 Clelland Road 1728 Massachusetts Avenue 177 Bedford Street 18 Hickory Street 193 Burlington Street 2 Forbes Road 205 Follen Road 21 Cliffe Avenue 21 Ingleside Road 21 Worthen Road 22 Fletcher Avenue 27 Muzzey Street 27 Vinebrook Road 29 Tucker Avenue 30 Greenwood Street 30 Lillian Road Type of Hearing • Denied 1 Comprehensive Permit (M.G.L. Ch. 40B) appli- cation (Grandview) to allow construction of residential developments of multi - family rental units in multiple buildings (of which at least 25% would be affordable units) . The Board remains indebted to the Communication Advisory Committee and the Design Advisory Committee for advice and assistance throughout the year. Decision Variance Special Permit Variance Variance Variance Special Permit Variance Variance Variance /Special Permit Variance Rev. of Special Permit dated August 21, 1997 Special Permit Variance /Special Permit Appeal of Decision Special Permit Variance Variance Special Permit Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Withdrew without Prejudice Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Judgment Overturned Approved with Conditions Approved Approved Variance Variance Variance Modification of existing Special Permit Variance Special Permit Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Denied Variance Variance Variance Variance 30 Lillian Road Variance 301 Massachusetts Avenue Renewal of Special Permit Approved with Conditions Approved Approved Approved Front - Approved, Denied driveway & retaining wall Withdrawn without Prejudice Approved with Conditions continued on next page Page 54 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Board of Appeals — 2005 Hearings continued from previous page Address of Hearing: Type of Hearing Decision 31 Fletcher Avenue Special Permit Approved 32 Percy Road Variance Approved 33 Hayden Avenue Special Permit Approved 365 -367 Waltham Street Variance Withdrawn without Prejudice 4 Maguire Road Special Permit Approved 4 Oakland Street Variance Approved 4 Ward Street Variance Approved 41 Ledgelawn Avenue Variance Approved 41 Waltham Street Special Permit Approved with Conditions 43 Woburn Street Variance /Special Permit Approved 440 Bedford Street Special Permit Approved with Conditions 46 Spring Street Variance Approved 47 Tarbell Avenue Variance Withdrawn without Prejudice 475 Bedford Street Special Permit Renewal Approved 482 Bedford Street Special Permit Approved 5 Bruce Road Variance 5 Fulton Road Special Permit 50 Robbins Road Variance 54 Munroe Road Variance 6 Moon Hill Road Variance 63 Harding Road Special Permit 66 Meriam Street Variance 675 Waltham Street Renewal Special Permit 68 Ward Street Special Permit 7 Pleasant Street Special Permit 7 Pleasant Street Variance 75 Concord Avenue Special Permit 76 Bedford Street, Unit 1 Special Permit 79 Robbins Road Variance 8 Fletcher Avenue Variance 927 -945 Waltham Street Renewal of Special Permit 93 Massachusetts Avenue Special Permit 93 Massachusetts Avenue Special Permit 959 Waltham Street Grandview Special Permit Comprehensive Permit Lincoln Street, Map 50, Lot 20 Special Permit Valleyfield Street, Lot 47B Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Withdrawn without Prejudice Approved Approved Approved Denied Denied Approved with Conditions Withdrawn without Prejudice Withdrawn without Prejudice Approved Continued Approved Appeal of a Decision Overturned Waltham Street, Map 5, Parcel 11A Special Permit Approved with Conditions 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 55 Regional Planning Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) ROLE of MAPC: As the regional planning agency repre- senting 101 communities in the metropolitan Boston area, including Lexington, to serve as a forum for state and local officials to address regional issues. Council members col- laborate in the development of comprehensive plans and recommendations in areas of population and employment, transportation, economic development, regional growth, and the environment. MAPC is one of the 17 members of the Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization. MAPC is also the federally designated economic development district for the region, responsible for creating an annual economic development plan. The Council provides technical assis- tance and professional resources in land use, the environ- ment, housing, transportation, water resources manage- ment, economic development, demographic and socioeco- nomic data, legislative policy, and inter -local partnerships which strengthen the efficient and effective operation of local governments. APPOINTED by the Town Manager as MAPC Lexington Representative: Richard Canale. MAPC Minuteman Advisory Group on Interlocal Coordination (MAGIC) ROLE of MAGIC: As one of MAPC's eight subregions, to discuss and work on issues of interlocal concern. Other MAGIC towns are: Acton, Bedford, Bolton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Hudson, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, and Stow. MAGIC participates in the Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization through its membership on the Regional Transportation Advisory Council. APPOINTED by the Selectmen as MAGIC Representatives: Jeanne Krieger and Richard Canale who was elected to chair the group. Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) ROLE of Boston MPO: Comprising seven state /regional agencies, six elected municipalities, the City of Boston, the Regional Transportation Advisory Council (ex officio), the Federal Highway Administration (ex officio), and the Federal Transit administration (ex officio), to consolidate transportation planning for a large portion of eastern Massachusetts for a variety of transportation modes and facilities, and to carry out the federally mandated trans- portation planning process for the region. The Boston MPO is responsible for producing three key Certification Documents: Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), and Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP). Barbara Lucas represents the MAPC on the Boston MPO and its Planning and Program Committee, of which she is Vice Chair. Regional Transportation Advisory Council ROLE of Regional Transportation Advisory Council: To provide public policy advice to the Boston MPO members on regional transportation issues and specific MPO actions. The Council is composed of 60 representatives from cities and towns, MAPC subregions, professional transportation and planning associations, advocacy and advisory groups, transportation providers, and various state and regional agencies. Lexington is one of the 11 Town members. APPOINTED by the Selectmen as Lexington's Representative to the Regional Transportation Advisory Council: Transportation Coordinator Gail Wagner. Richard Canale represents MAGIC on transportation issues as the subre- gion's representative and serves as chair of the Advisory Council's Program Committee. MAPC • Richard Canale helped shape MAPC's positions on dispo- sition of state surplus land, recommendations to the Department of Defense's Base Realignment and Closure Plan, and other policy decisions and actions that could affect Lexington. • Completed Phase 2 of MetroFuture: Making a Greater Boston Region, a unique, multi -year, collaboration to develop a regional plan that addresses present and future challenges and opportunities. The MetroFuture team com- pleted an analysis, using past and current trends, to pro- ject our likely future in the project's five study areas: People and Communities; Buildings and Landscapes; Air, Water, and Wildlife; Getting Around; and Prosperity. The Lexington MAPC representative is contributing to the design and structure of this process as a member of the Steering Committee. • Collaborated with Lexington on population, employment, and household forecasts to be used in future planning studies. • Lexington's MAPC representative and other Lexington representatives participated in several MAPC workshops on population and employment, transportation, economic development, housing, regional growth, and the environ- ment. MAGIC • Conducted a Forum on Emergency Preparedness. Presenters represented the Northeast Homeland Security Council, MEMA, Department of Public Health Emergency Preparedness Region 4A, and FEMA, who dis- cussed their purview and role, activities, plans, proce- dures, and links to other components of the emergency preparedness picture. Participants included Lexington's Town Manager, Fire Chief, Police representative, and DPW Director. • FEMA has approved funding MAPC's application for a project that will result in a Regional A11- Hazard continued on next page Page 56 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Regional Planning continued from previous page Mitigation Plan for the 12 MAGIC towns plus 16 neigh- boring cities and towns. Under the grant, MAPC will work with the communities to identify areas at risk of damage from natural hazards, evaluate existing protection measures, and develop a multiple- hazard mitigations strat- egy to reduce future damages. • Conducted two forums with area State legislators on issues of concern to MAGIC. • Hosted a roundtable for MAGIC town planners and poli- cy makers. Selectman Jeanne Krieger and Town Planner Maryann McCall - Taylor represented Lexington. • Discussed potential impacts of regional development pro- posals within the area, discussed the regional significance and value of Hanscom Air Force Base and recommended to the BRAC Commission that they accept the HATS /State Defense Technology Initiative recommendations. • Responded to the Governor's draft 20 -Year State Transportation Plan, noting that, "the presence of Hanscom in our subregion makes us especially conscious of air and passenger rail issues and how they relate both to the regional road network and to the larger New England context. From this perspective, we are still awaiting a true multi -modal long range integrated transportation plan and encourage the Administration to expand the draft plan to take on this challenge." Historic Districts Commission ROLE: To promote the educational, cultural, economic and general wel- fare of the public through the preser- vation and protection of historic buildings, places and districts. APPOINTED by the Selectmen for overlapping 5 -year terms: two candi- dates nominated by the Lexington Historical Society, one candidate nominated by the Lexington Arts and Crafts Society, Inc., one candi- date nominated by the Trustees of the Cary Memorial Library and one selected at large by the Selectmen. Chair Joann Gschwendtner; Commissioners Ian Adamson, Mark DiNapoli, Lynn Hopkins and Joseph Welch; Associate Commissioners: Daniel Griffin, Jr., James Lee, Greta Rothman, and Carl Oldenburg. Chairman Joann Gschwendtner's term ended December 31; she had served on the Commission for 12 years. Front L -R: Joseph Welch, Joann Gschwendtner, Lynn Hopkins, Carl Oldenburg. L -R: Mark DiNapoli, Ian Adamson, Daniel Griffin, Jr. and James Lee. HEARINGS Held 119 hearings: 49 formal, 29 informal, 40 continued, and 1 special informal. Issued 69 Certificates of Appropriateness, one Denial and 2 Extensions of Time to Certificates of Appropriateness. HIGHLIGHTS • Held a special informal meeting with the Capital Expenditures Committee, Permanent Building Committee, and the School Committee to review preliminary designs for the School Administration Building. Rear • Held an informal meeting with the developers of the spe- cial needs housing at the Lexington Press on Oakland Street, an important project in the Lexington Center area. • Continued to work with businesses on signage issues and with homeowners on additions. Commission members continue to meet on -site with many applicants to try to help them through the design process and through prob- lem areas. continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 57 0 0 bupgEl S pinEa Historic District Commission continued from previous page JANUARY FORMAL HEARINGS 475A Massachusetts Avenue — Robert Gulick received approval for window replacement. Certificate No. 2005C -01. 1347 Massachusetts Avenue — William Erickson, represent- ing Eileen Reynolds and Dan Deschler, received approval for additional windows in rear and porch enclosure. Certificate No. 2005C -02. FEBRUARY FORMAL HEARINGS 1793 Massachusetts Avenue — Robert Thompson, repre- senting Brookline Bank, received approval for signage. Certificate No. 2005C -03. 1781 Massachusetts Avenue — Tom Dunn, representing Cambridge Savings Bank, requested a double -face non- illumi- nated blade sign; request denied. Certificate No. 2005C -04. 1145 Massachusetts Avenue - Michael and Diane Mooney received approval to remove existing Anderson window and to replace with a Marvin wood bay window. Certificate No. 2005C -05. 15 -19 Depot Square - Julie Supple, representing Depot Realty Trust, received approval for free - standing sign. Certificate 2005C -06. INFORMAL HEARINGS 1720 Massachusetts Avenue - Eric Shapiro, AKA Battle Green Inn, presented updated plans and elevations for con- dominium development project. 14 Waltham Street — Carrie Thenen, representing Jewels from the Crown, presented plans for new signage. 15 Meriam Street — Robert and Judith Sacco discussed exte- rior architectural changes to siding and windows. MARCH FORMAL HEARINGS 13 Depot Square — Carla Fortmann, representing Lexington Historical Society, received approval to hang a temporary banner for the month of April. Certificate No. 2005C -07. 840 Massachusetts Avenue — John and Judi Brosner received approval to repaint home subject to on -site approval by Joseph Welch and James Lee of painted sample area. Certificate No. 2005C -08. 15 Meriam Street — Robert Sacco received approval to remove siding, replacing with cedar clapboards to main body of house and scallop cedar shingles on gables; to replace storm windows and sills; and to replace flowerbox window. Certificate No. 2005C -09. House paint color con- tinued. 14 Waltham Street — Carrie Thenan, representing Jewels from the Crown received sign approval. Certificate No. 2005C -10. 1793 Massachusetts Avenue — Robert Thompson, repre- senting Brookline Bank, received approval for signage. Certificate No. 2005C -11. 11 Hancock Avenue — Upesh Patel received approval to change window on gable at end of garage to two windows and add 7 -lite transom unit over garage doors. Certificate No. 2005C -12. INFORMAL HEARINGS 1733 Massachusetts Avenue — Reese Schroeder, represent- ing Jasmine Sola, presented plans for exterior architectural changes. 3 -5 Bedford Street — Matt Custance, representing Masonic Temple, presented plans for replacement for doors and hardware. 1720 Massachusetts Avenue — Eric Shapiro, AKA Battle Green Inn, presented updated plans and elevations for con- dominium development project. APRIL FORMAL HEARINGS 41 Waltham Street — Applicant withdrew application. 3 -5 Bedford Street — Matthew Custance, representing the Lexington Masonic Temple, received approval for custom exterior doors and hardware. Certificate No. 2005C -13. 1751 Massachusetts Avenue — Reese Schroeder, represent- ing Jasmine Sola, received approval for exterior architectur- al changes to the storefront and signage. Certificate No. 2005C -14. Hearing continued for lighting. 13 Depot Square — David Wells received approval for brick work at the front and sides, as well as for fencing. Certificate No. 2005C -15. Hearing continued for ground covers and dimensions. INFORMAL HEARINGS 1361 Massachusetts Avenue — Steven Breitenfeld presented preliminary drawings for a rear porch and a carriage house. 1756 Massachusetts Avenue — Karen Blake and Pat Valentine presented preliminary plans for planters. 1557 Massachusetts Avenue — David Handlin presented photos and prospective general ideas for the rehabilitation of the School Administration Building for presentation to Town Meeting. 1720 Massachusetts Avenue — Eric Shapiro of Battle Green Inn and his partners discussed idea changes to the plans pre- sented to Town Meeting. MAY FORMAL HEARINGS 1756 Massachusetts Avenue — Karen Blake, representing Valentines, requested and received a continuance until June, 2005. continued on next page Page 58 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Historic District Commission continued from previous page 1361 Massachusetts Avenue - Steven Breitenfeld received approval to replace asphalt roof shingles and to relocate and bury utility lines. Certificate No. 2005C -14. Porch and car- riage housework continued waiting for more detailed plans. 1751 Massachusetts Avenue — Reese Schroeder, represent- ing Jasmine Sola, did not attend hearing. 13 Depot Square — David Wells, representing Lexington Historical Society received approval for lawn planting, in- ground irrigation and brick sidewalk. Certificate No. 2005C -15. 1727 Massachusetts Avenue — Kathleen Wentworth, repre- senting Not Your Average Joe's, received approval for a new umbrella color and for the front wrought iron railings. Certificate No. 2005C -16. Signage continued. INFORMAL HEARINGS 703 Massachusetts Avenue — Steven Breitenfeld, represent- ing Waldorf School, presented preliminary drawings for exterior architectural changes. Will come before Board for formal in June. 12 Hancock Street - Sally DeGan, representing John and Courtney Michaud, did not attend hearing. 45 Bedford Street — Peter Chalpin, representing the Town of Lexington, presented preliminary plans to add a brick walk- way and re -grade at door in front of the Fire Station. 1888 Massachusetts Avenue — David Pronchick discussed plans for exterior architectural changes. 72 Waltham Street — Eric Zanin presented plans for exteri- or architectural changes. Massachusetts Avenue and Waltham Street — Catherine Hunter, representing Lexington Center Art Walk came before the Commission to discuss hanging banners from light poles in Lexington Center to advertise merchants par- ticipating in the Art Walk. The Board does not approve banners on light -poles and discussed other possibilities for advertising. 1430 Massachusetts Avenue — Chris Connor presented ideas for landscape design changes. JUNE FORMAL HEARINGS 45 Bedford Street — Peter Chalpin, representing the Town of Lexington, received approval for new door hardware, a brick walkway and to re -grade front entryway of the Fire Station. Certificate No. 2005C -19. 17 Hancock Street — Marilyn Pike received approval for a fireplace flute. Certificate No. 2005C -20. 41 Waltham Street - Bill Ravenis, representing 1920 Realty Trust, was denied signage changes. 1666 Massachusetts Avenue — Sharon Spaulding, representing signage for Oriental Rug Importers, was continued until July. 72 Waltham Street — Eric Zanin requested to be continued until July. 1888 Massachusetts Avenue — David Pronchick received approval for a new back door on wing to the right of house, second walkway to be eliminated to right entry and for a new front light over entry way. Certificate No. 2005C -21. Work on walkway replacement, back patio and brick stairs was continued. 1430 Massachusetts Avenue — Chris Connor received approval for landscape design changes. Certificate No. 2005C -22. 703 Massachusetts Avenue — Steven Breitenfeld, represent- ing Waldorf School, received approval to remove part of the asphalt driveway, replace fencing, install new ramp, install brick walkways, change storm windows and move sign to side of building. Certificate No. 2005C -23. 1 Hunt Road - Mary Speare received approval for an air conditioning condenser and a fence. Certificate No. 2005C- 24. Shingles for roofing continued. 1756 Massachusetts Avenue — Karen Blake, representing Valentines, received a continuance until July. 1361 Massachusetts Avenue - Steven Breitenfeld received approval for porch and carriage house design. Certificate No. 2005C -25. 1727 Massachusetts Avenue — Kathleen Wentworth, repre- senting Not Your Average Joe's, continued until July. 32 -42 Worthen Road - Tom Fenn, representing Battle Green Apartments, received approval for landscape design changes. Certificate No. 2005C -26. INFORMAL HEARINGS 12 Hancock Street — Ian Raum did not attend. 20 -22 Spencer — Laurie Sickles, a possible buyer for the property came before Commission to discuss options for renovations. JULY FORMAL HEARINGS 1853 Massachusetts Avenue — Jean - Claude Massad, repre- senting Candy Castle, requested hearing continued until August 4. 926 Massachusetts Avenue - Patricia Thomas received approval for a walkway, driveway and play -set. Certificate No. 2005C -28. 13 Depot Square — David Wells, representing Lexington Historical Society did not attend. 1 Hunt Road - Mary Speare received approval for CertainTeed architectural shingles for roofing. Certificate No. 2005C- 29. continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 59 Historic District Commission continued from previous page 1727 Massachusetts Avenue — Steve Silverstein, represent- ing Not Your Average Joe's, received approval for signage and change in door color. Certificate No. 2005C -30. Rear signage continued. 72 Waltham Street - Eric Zanin received approval for a front porch, deck and shed. Certificate No. 2005C -31. 1888 Massachusetts Avenue — David Pronchick received approval for new light by back patio, brick walkway and patio area. Certificate No. 2005C -32. 18 Hancock Street — Cynthia Curtner discussed roofing and steps with Commission. Hearing continued until August 4. 1347 Massachusetts Avenue - William Erickson, represent- ing Eileen Reynolds, received approval for windows. Certificate No. 2005C -33. 32 -42 Worthen Road — Tom Fenn, representing Battle Green Apartments received approval for plumbing vents. Certificate No. 2005C -34 1756 Massachusetts Avenue - Karen Blake, representing Valentine's, did not attend. INFORMALS 1730 Massachusetts Avenue — Raychel Greenwald came before the Commission to discuss signage. AUGUST FORMAL HEARINGS 1730 Massachusetts Avenue — Raychel Greenwald, repre- senting Dahn Yoga Center, discussed signage. Hearing con- tinued. 41 -49 Waltham Street - Claudio Sierra, representing Turro Italiano, received approval for signage and roof venting. Certificate No. 2005C -35. 41 Waltham Street — Jordan Tobins and Joshua Huggard, representing The Upper Crust, received approval for sig- nage. Certificate No. 2005C -36. Roof venting continued. 59 Forest Street — F. William Smith received approval for driveway renovations. Certificate No. 2005C -37. 1666 Massachusetts Avenue - Sharon Spaulding of Spaulding Management, representing Lexx, received approval for outdoor tables and chairs on south side of the building. Certificate No. 2005C -38. 13 Depot Square — David Wells, representing Lexington Historical Society received approval for brick walkways and bluestone patio. Certificate No. 2005C -39. 18 Hancock Street — Cynthia Curtner received approval for roofing shingles and house color change. Certificate No. 2005C -40. Hearing continued for windows and side stairs. 1888 Massachusetts Avenue — David Pronchick received approval for steps, fieldstone walls, and bluestone patio area. Certificate No. 2005C- 41. 25 Waltham Street - Steven Hurley, representing Coldwell Bankers, received approval for new door and light fixture. Certificate No. 2005C -42. INFORMALS 1666 Massachusetts Avenue - Sharon Spaulding of Spaulding Management, representing Boston Private Bank and Trust Company, discussed signage. 12 Bedford Street — Donald Parilla came before Commission to discuss driveway. SEPTEMBER FORMAL HEARINGS 1666 Massachusetts Avenue - Sharon Spaulding of Spaulding Management, representing Boston Private Bank and Trust Company received approval for signage. Certificate No. 2005C -43. 12 Bedford Street — Donald and Lodia Parilla received approval for driveway and front -step renovations. Certificate No. 2005C -44. 10 Bedford Street — William and Janet Erickson continued hearing until October. 6 Hancock Avenue — Melissa Broderick received approval for color change. Certificate No. 2005C -45. 2030 Massachusetts Avenue - Susan Kimberly Woodard received approval for windows and doors changes. Certificate No. 2005C -46. Storm doors continued. 13 Depot Square — David Wells, representing Lexington Historical Society did not attend. 41 Waltham Street — Jordan Tobins and Joshua Huggard, representing The Upper Crust, received approval for roof venting. Certificate No. 2005C -47. 18 Hancock Street — Cynthia Curtner received approval for walkway and door. Certificate No. 2005C -48. Hearing con- tinued for windows, screening for barrels, side stairs and deck. 1888 Massachusetts Avenue — David Pronchick received approval for 2 -foot stonewall and amended certificate from August to read 4 -foot wall at end of driveway. Certificate No. 2005C -49. INFORMALS 15 -19 Depot Square — Julie Supple, representing Depot Realty Trust, discussed patio renovations. OCTOBER FORMAL HEARINGS 11 Brigham Road — Kate and Kevin McCary received approval to change the color of house, trim and door and to replace shutters and garage door. Certificate No. 2005C -50. 3 Fletcher Avenue — John Day continued hearing until November. continued on next page Page 60 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Historic District Commission continued from previous page 1932 Massachusetts Avenue — Gary Larson, representing Joseph and Molly Nye, received approval for a new drive- way with turn - around, deck and granite steps at side entry. Certificate No. 2005C -51. 1840 Massachusetts Avenue — Carolyn Parker, representing TD Banknorth, continued hearing until November. 15 -19 Depot Square — Julie Supple, representing Depot Realty Trust, continued hearing until November. 975 -977 Massachusetts Avenue — Patricia Ardito received approval for paint color change. Certificate No. 2005C -52. 45 Bedford Street — Mike Flamang, representing the Town of Lexington, received approval for new walkway. Certificate No. 2005C -53. 2030 Massachusetts Avenue — Susan Kimberly Woodard did not attend. 10 Bedford Street — William and Janet Erickson received approval for a rear addition of a porch. Certificate No. 2005C -54. Joan Gschwendtner recused herself from this hearing. James Lee stood in her place. 18 Hancock Street — Mirek Sococinski, representing Cynthia Curtner, received approval for back porch, deck and front porch. Certificate No. 2005C -55. Hearing con- tinued for windows, screening for barrels. 11 Harrington Road — Thomas Sheedy came to discuss working toward a resolution of the downspouts and gutters from appealed decision of November 14, 2002; Certificate No. 2002C -81. Joann Gcshwendtner recused herself from this hearing; James Lee stood in her place. Continued. INFORMALS 1454 Massachusetts Avenue — Bart Graf discussed adding a garage. 21 Follen Road — Donna Bosco, representing the Sacred Heart Church, discussed temporary signage. Commission went into Executive Session to discuss the legal case of 11 Harrington Road with Town Counsel, Jonathan Elder from Palmer and Dodge. NOVEMBER FORMAL HEARINGS 1358 Massachusetts Avenue — Lynn Hopkins, representing Dr. and Mrs. Pradeep Dilwali, received approval to widen driveway. Certificate No. 2005C -56. 1776 Massachusetts Avenue - James Gray Wagner, repre- senting Citizens Bank, received approval for signage. Certificate No. 2005C -57. 1713 Massachusetts Avenue — Max Jordan, representing Salter and Kahn, hearing on building repairs continued. 1314 Massachusetts Avenue — William Trautman received approval to install two condensers for air - conditioning and replace two heat pipes. Certificate Number 2005C -58. 33 Bedford Street — Sharon Spaulding, representing Liberties Condominium, received approval on ADA entry- ways. Certificate 2005C -59. 1666 Massachusetts Avenue — Sharon Spaulding of Spaulding Management, representing Boston Private Bank, received approval for signage. Certificate No. 2005C -60. 3 Fletcher Avenue — John Day, representing Lexington Federal Credit Union, received approval for replacement of basement windows. Certificate No. 2005C -61. 1840 Massachusetts Avenue — Carolyn Parker, representing TD Banknorth, received approval for signage. Certificate No. 2005C -62. 13 Depot Square — William Mix, representing Lexington Historical Society, received approval for brick walkway. Certificate No. 2005C -63. INFORMALS 1720 Massachusetts Avenue - Eric Rhodin and Gwen Noyes presented new plans for Lexington Commons to be pre- sented at the November Town Meeting. DECEMBER FORMAL HEARINGS 17 Hancock Street — Marilyn Pike received approval for window replacement. Certificate No. 2005C -65. 1730 Massachusetts Avenue — Pamela Shadley, representing Shadley Associates, PC, received approval for signs. Certificate No. 2005C -66. Joel Werrick, representing JJ 8� R Realty, continued hearing for removal of casement win- dows on second floor. 856 Massachusetts Avenue — Roman Legocki, representing Personal Cleaners and Tailors, received approval for new signage. Certificate No. 2005C -67. 1314 Massachusetts Avenue — Nancy Trautman received approval to replace driveway side of roof. Number 2005C- 68. 1358 Massachusetts Avenue — Lynn Hopkins, representing Dr. and Mrs. Pradeep Dilwali, received approval to change windows in kitchen. Certificate No. 2005C -69. 840 Massachusetts Avenue — Judi Brosnan received approval for paint color change. Certificate No. 2005C- 64. INFORMALS 7 -9 Oakland Street — David Buckley, representing Supportive Living, Inc., discussed preliminary plans for home for brain - damaged adults. 1454 Massachusetts Avenue — Bart Graf did not attend due to illness. 15 -17 Depot Square — William Crosby of Crosby Signs, rep- resenting Helen Edwards of ReMax Premier Properties, dis- cussed new signage. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 61 David S. Tabeling Lexington Historical Commission ROLE: To preserve and protect historically and architec- turally significant buildings and sites in Lexington; to advise the Building Inspector about issuing demolition permits for significant buildings; and to support efforts to nominate buildings for the National Register of Historic Places main- tained by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior. APPOINTED by the Town Manager for 3 -year terms: Chair David Kelland, Marilyn Fenollosa, Frank Kern, Tom Taylor, and Sally Zimmerman. HIGHLIGHTS: • Maintained the Comprehensive Cultural Resources Survey, at present nine volumes, which lists the histori- cally and architecturally important buildings and areas in Lexington dating from the earliest period to the 19th and 20th centuries. Grants from the Massachusetts Historical Commission, the Town, and the Trustees of Public Trusts have made it possible for the Commission to bring the Survey up to date. The Survey is available at Cary Memorial Library and the Planning Office in the Town Office Building and is used by historians, students, home- owners, businesses, and real estate professionals for the added value of historical properties. • Maintained a Cumulative Index to facilitate the use of the Comprehensive Cultural Resources Survey. This index has been distributed to all real estate offices in Lexington and is available in the Planning Office and in the office of the Building Inspector as well as from the Commission. In 2005, the Commission added a list of additional buildings being considered for inclusion in the survey. All buildings in the survey or on this additional list are subject to a public hearing before demolition approval. • Researched the history and architecture of several houses for which demolition applications had been presented. The Commission members, all volunteers, regularly consult with homeowners, builders, and developers on questions of sensi- tive restorations of important buildings. Procedures for mak- ing presentations at public hearings before the Commission have been developed and are available to applicants. Guidelines for what constitutes demolition also have been developed. The Commission inspects and photographs all buildings subject to a demolition application. Design Advisory Committee Front L -R: Elizabeth Creager, Eric Brown, Whitman, Greg Zurlo, Colin Ginna Johnson, Alenka Slezak. Smith. Rear L -R: Bruce ROLE: To assist the Selectmen and other boards and people in the Town in applying professional design standards to new structures, renova- tions, signage, lighting, and landscape improvements. APPOINTED by Selectmen for 1 -year terms: Chair Colin Smith replaced Carl Oldenburg in October, Eric Brown, Bruce Creager, Parker Hirtle, Bahig Kaldas, Alenka Slezak, Greg Zurlo, Virginia Johnson. Associate Members: John Frey, and Betsy Whitman. Planning Board Liaison Wendy Manz and Selectmen Liaison Peter Kelley. HIGHLIGHTS: • Recommended to Board of Appeals approval for: 31 Fletcher Avenue / Jefferson Unions Building - Wireless communications antennae: - 75 Concord Avenue - On water tanks near Morgan Road - 177 Bedford Street - Signage in various locations: - 4 Maguire Road - 33 Hayden Road - Office building on Waltham Street • Participated as a member committee of the Lexington Center Collaborative and in the design charrette in June. • Developed designs for public pedestrian walk- ways, parking improvements, and landscap- ing. • Reviewed and commented on the design of the Battle Green Inn redevelopment. Page 62 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Office of Community Development - Building Division ROLE: To enforce the State Building Code, Uniform State Plumbing and Gas Code, State Mechanical Code, State Elec- trical Code, Lex- ington Zoning Bylaws, and Architectural Access Regulations involving handicapped accessibility to buildings and issues regarding such requirements. This involves plan review, permit issuance, and inspection of all building, electri- cal, plumbing, gas and mechanical construction in the Town, including new structures, additions, alterations, and repairs. The Sealer of Weights 8c Measures determines the accuracy of all weights and measuring devices in commercial and public use within the Town. Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $287,316 $ 42,131 $313,594 $ 38,152 Personnel Full Time 4 4 Part Time 2 2 Board APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Building Commissioner Steven Frederickson, P.E., a full -time Inspector of Wires, Plumbing/Gas /Mechanical Inspector and Department Clerk as well as a part -time Building Inspector and part -time Zoning Enforcement Officer /Sealer of Weights and Measures. HIGHLIGHTS: • Permit activity continued at a high level, with a total of 1126 building permits issued. • Construction began on a large addition at Brookhaven on Waltham Street. Construction began and was completed for a new building at MIT Lincoln Lab on Wood Street. Construction continued for tenant improvements, demoli- tion and alterations at 131 Spring Street, the former site of Raytheon. Minor demolition began in preparations for alterations at 31 Fletcher Avenue, the former site of Jefferson Union. • Construction was completed at the new Harrington School. The old Fiske School was demolished and con- struction began for the new Fiske School. • Construction is nearly complete for the new building at Grace Chapel. • Construction continued on dwellings at Cider Mill Road, and construction began on houses at the new Luongo Farm Lane off of Pleasant Street. • The demolition of existing houses and the construction of new larger houses on scattered sites continued. Permits were issued to demolish 82 existing houses, while permits were issued for the construction of 80 new single - family dwellings and 2 new two - family dwellings. • Demolition permits were issues for 775 Trapelo Road, the site of the old Metropolitan State Hospital, in preparation for a large new residential project by Avalon. • A gas explosion destroyed a home at 3 Hancock Avenue. As a result of the explosion, 1400 gas customers were impacted and the gas inspector needed to inspect approx- imately 200 homes. Inspectors from across the State assist- ed during this crisis. Year 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 Bldg. 1126 1124 984 1035 899 Elec. 1332 1170 1039 1141 1018 Plumbing/ Gas 2067 1786 1353 1111 1043 Actual construction valuation is higher Total Permit Activity Reported Value of All Construction's $100,929,414 $ 67,079,200 $ 75,758,772 $ 72,979,601 $ 90,268,218 Single - Family 80 76 66 72 81 Multi - Family 2 1 0 0 2 Additions/ Alterations 379 1047 922 963 816 Explicit Breakdown of 2005 Building Permits New Units Residential 84 New Units Commercial 1 Additions Residential 171 Additions Commercial 7 Miscellaneous 358 Decks 30 Includes 2 two - family dwelling Fiske School Repairs /Alterations 221 Stoves 9 Swimming Pools 3 Roofing /Siding Garages /Carports Sheds 3 233 8 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 63 Hanscom Area Towns Committee (HATS) and Hanscom Field Advisory Commission (HFAC) ROLE of HATS: To represent the interests of the towns of Bedford, Concord, Lexington and Lincoln in matters per- taining to Hanscom Field and developments in the sur- rounding area, and to review and comment on proposed projects to State, Federal, and regional agencies. APPOINTED to HATS by the Board of Selectmen to repre- sent Lexington: Selectman Jeanne Krieger, Stew Kennedy, Conservation; and Margaret Coppe. APPOINTED to HATS by the Planning Board: Richard Canale. The HATS Chair rotates annually among the four towns. During 2005 Lincoln chaired HATS. ROLE of HATS Environmental Sub - Committee (ES): To assist HATS with the review of environmental impacts asso- ciated with airport activities. APPOINTED to HATS ES by the Board of Selectmen to represent Lexington: Co- Chairs Julian Bussgang and Richard Canale, Tony Galaitsis. ROLE of HATS Development of Regional Impact Subcommittee (DRI): To assist HATS by monitoring devel- opment resulting from the BRAC process and to coordinate cooperative planning efforts among the four towns. APPOINTED to HATS DRI by the Board of Selectmen and Planning Board to represent Lexington: Richard Canale and Charles Wyman. ROLE of HFAC: To act as an advisory commission with regard to Hanscom Field for review of issues of land use, noise and transportation and to provide communications between the surrounding towns and Massport in matters pertaining to Hanscom Field. APPOINTED to HFAC by the Board of Selectmen to repre- sent Lexington: Peter Enrich served through March and was succeeded by Hank Manz. Michael Barrett served as alter- nate. Other members represent other communities and var- ious interest groups. Grady Wheaton and Margaret Coppe represent neighborhood associations and Melodee Wagen filled the League of Women Voters position. The position of Chair rotates among the four towns. HFAC was chaired in 2005 by Concord. Commercial Air Traffic Jet activity grew 8.9% in 2004 according to the 2004 annu- al Noise Report issued in October 2005. The increased jet activity was accompanied by a 7.8% decrease in total oper- ations to 180,804 and a decline in local and single engine piston (SEP) aircraft of 13.6 %. Despite, noise levels in 2004 were nearly flat, indicating the preponderance of the noise impacts from jet activity. As of November, there had been a continued decline in total operations with a continued rela- tive increase in jet operations. Noise levels in 2005 were slightly less but still reflect dominance by jet activity. Linear Air, which offers chartered jet flights that can be booked like commercial flights, announced their intention to increase their fleet by the purchase of 30 jets. B and M con- tinued to offer scheduled commercial flights. There were no further developments concerning possible scheduled air freight operations Massport announced their plans to lease Hanger 24, the former MIT hanger to Crosspoint, a fixed -base operator (FBO) catering to private and corporate jets who will insti- tute passenger services. The proposed development with access from Virginia Road includes a 60,000 sq. ft hanger, 13,000 sq. ft. of passenger area, 18,000 sq. ft. of office space, parking for 100 cars and 30,000 gallon above ground fuel storage tank in the Pine Hill section of the air- field. This intense development was not contemplated in the 2005 ESPR and accordingly has not had the benefit of an environmental review. Completion of the Crosspoint termi- nal would increase the capacity for jet activity by 50% over 2004 levels. The citizen's organization, Safeguarding the Historic Hanscom Area's Irreplaceable Resources (ShhAir), took action to seek appropriate environmental review by filing a notice of project change with the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs (EOEA). The petition was denied, ignoring the potential environmental impacts of siting a ter- minal capable of dramatically increasing air and ground traffic on a little used side of the airfield. Subsequent analy- sis revealed the proposed terminal and fuel tanks were sited in Concord on the aquifer for Bedford's water supply. HATS Selectmen filed a fail -safe petition with the Massachusetts Environmental Protection Agency (MEPA) to force Massport and Crosspoint to participate in a review that would provide protection for Bedford's water supply. Massport responded that review is not necessary and in December MEPA denied the request for local review. The events associated with Crosspoint typify Massport's contin- ued refusal to take environmental impacts seriously and MEPA's reluctance or inability to hold Massport account- able. For these reasons and the absence of realistic aviation growth scenarios on which to base environmental impacts, HATS opted not to participate in the 2005 Environmental Status and Planning Report (ESPR). In the interest of setting formal, enforceable and measurable limits on expansion at Hanscom Field to preserve the his- torical and cultural environment of the four towns, Lexington adopted the Sustainable Hanscom policy which calls for a moratorium on scheduled commercial and cargo flights as well as a limit on noise equivalent to the 2000 level. These two limits are consistent with the definition of a general aviation facility and will permit economically viable operation of the airport. Base Relocating and Closing Process Concluded HATS worked on two fronts to manage the Base Realignment and Closure Process (BRAC). HATS allied with state officials and agencies, in particular the Defense Technology Initiative MassDTI, to demonstrate the impor- Page 64 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington HATS and HFAC continued from previous page tance of the air base to the local economy and to ensure that the base be evaluated as a highly - specialized technical facil- ity, not as a traditional military base. Concurrently, under a grant from the Department of Defense Office of Economic Adjustment (EOA), the HATS communities worked with Sasaki Associates and attorney David Knisely to develop a re -use plan and prepare for the transfer process by contem- plating formation of a local redevelopment authority (LRA) to ensure an avenue for local control should the Pentagon designate base closure. Hanscom Air Force Base passed the May cut list and was ultimately declared in September to remain open. However, about 200 civilian research jobs were transferred from the base with the move of the Sensors Directorate of Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to Wright- Patterson Air Base in Ohio. Civilian Airfield HFAC continues to monitor a number of developments affecting the capacity and utilization of the civilian side of the airfield. Massport hired Rannoch Associates to replace their Noise Monitoring System. A subset of the former Noise working group, a collection of technical experts of national stature, undertook to work with Massport and Rannoch to relocate the noise monitors, and to specify the type of data that should be taken and how it should be pre- sented to the communities. Expansion of the Runway Safety Areas (RSA) will require sufficient wetland — filling to trigger both a State and Federal review. In commenting on the scope of the review, the ES noted that the Airport Layout Plan, essentially the zoning plan for the airfield, should be renewed to identify develop- ments that occurred over the past decade and to specify future planned developments. Projects underway include construction of a prefab building for sand storage and renovations of the Civil Air Terminal (CAT). Projects planned include a rebuild of Hanger 10 and proposals to be issued for development on the North Parcel and a Pine Hill hanger. The DRI will monitor a proposal from the Division of Capital Asset Management (DCAM) to lease space for cell towers on MassHighway land at the intersections of Routes 2A and 128 to ensure that the proposed towers do not intrude on the views of Minute Man National Historical Park. Lexington Center Committee ROLE: To advise the Selectmen and business community on managing change in the Center to ensure its long -term via- bility while preserving its historical significance and the integrity of adjacent neighborhoods. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Chair Sheila Watson, Vice Chair Jerome Smith; Kathryn Fields, Elizabeth Harvey, Frederic Johnson, Howard Levin, Jerold Michelson, Daphne Politis, Gant Redmon, Joan Zahka. Selectman Liaison Richard Pagett. Planning Board Liaison Wendy Manz. HIGHLIGHTS • Initiated the Center Collaborative Summit Meeting of Center Stakeholders and hosted the Center Collaborative, a 100 - person public meeting, to build consensus for action on prioritized Center projects. Developed summary report of findings. • Initiated Center Stakeholder meeting to determine that all plans for Meriam Street /CVS lot for tree planting, Depot landscaping, connectivity corridors, and Center Connectivity Walkway Plan were understood and well coordinated. • Brought forth Connectivity Plan to connect Meriam Street lot with well landscaped walkways and pocket park through the Bank of America and Carlson RE alleyway. Currently working with all Center parties and landowners to try to make this happen. • Continued to work with Planning Board to bring recom- mendations to Board of Selectmen and Town Meeting on resolution of short- and long -term parking issues. Front L -R: Howard Levin, Sheila Watson, Francine Stieglitz, Anne Cuervo. Rear L -R: Bill Hadley, Fred Johnson, Richard Pagett, Kathy Fields, Joan Zahka, Gant Redmon. • Continued to work with Department of Public Works to most effectively utilize two part -time DPW employees to keep the Center clean and attractive. • Continued to work on economic development in the Center by acting as focal point for new, existing, and potential businesses. • To maintain a vital town center, continued to encourage citizens to support Lexington's businesses. • Continued work with Doran's Greenhouses and the DPW to plant and maintain the flower barrels in the center of Town. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 65 0 0 buHagel S pinEa LexHAB - Lexington Housing Assistance Board ROLE: To provide affordable housing for low- and moder- ate- income families; to administer the Muzzey Condominium resale restrictions; and to consult with other town boards on privately constructed residential develop- ments containing affordable units. LexHAB has 49 dwelling units that are rented under one -year leases: 35 attached units (10 one - bedroom, 22 two - bedroom, and 3 three -bed- room units in four developments) and 14 scattered site dwelling units (1 two - bedroom, 3 three - bedroom and 8 four - bedroom single family homes plus a two - family three - bedroom duplex). Rental income covers the operating expenses and capital requirements. No funds come from the town budget. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen for overlapping 3- year terms: Chair Marshall Derby, David Eagle, William Hays, Gerry Howell, Donald Wilson, and Martha Wood. Selectmen Liaison Norman Cohen. Office manager Joan Wall. HIGHLIGHTS: • Continued construction of a two - family house on Rangeway Street after obtaining a rezoning at Town Meeting in 2004. It is being constructed by the Lexington Rotary Club and Minuteman Regional High School stu- dents and staff. All funding for construction comes from LexHAB. • Purchased a one - bedroom unit at the Muzzey Condominium. Lexington Housing Authority ROLE: To provide decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing for low- moderate income individuals and families: to work with residents and the community to improve liv- ing standards for the poor. ELECTED to 5 -year terms: Chair Nicholas Santosuosso, Vice Chair Robert Cohen, Treasurer Melinda Walker, Assistant Treasurer Leona Martin, and Commissioner Leo McSweeney. APPOINTED: by the Board of Commissioners Executive Director Ann Whitney and appointed by the Governor Commissioner Robert Cohen. HIGHLIGHTS • Administered 340 units of affordable and low- income housing for elderly, family, handicapped, Section 8 Choice vouchers, and MRVP project -based vouchers. • Designated a High Performer by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. • Participated in the statewide centralized Section 8 Housing Choice voucher waiting list which gives applicants oppor- tunity to receive vouchers from other communities. • Local residents are encouraged to apply for affordable hous- ing. Applications and locations of the LHA developments can be found at www .lexingtonhousingauthority.org. Front L -R: Leona Martin, Melinda Walker. Rear L -R: Ann Whitney, Nicholas Santosuosso, Leo McSweeney. Page 66 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington O 0 0 0 0 Lexington Housing Partnership Front L -R: Jeri Foutter, Martha Wood, Bob Bicknell. Rear L -R: Winifred McGowan, Julia Duncan, Ken Kreutziger, Iris Wheaton, Harriet Cohen, Bill Carlson, Inky MacDougall, Mary Haskell, Betsy Weiss. ROLE: To promote and support affordable housing activi- ties and to recommend appropriate actions to the Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board. No funds come from the Town's budget. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen for overlapping 3- year terms: Chair Bob Bicknell, Vice Chair David Burns, Secretary Harriet Cohen (Fair Housing and Human Relations Committee); Jeri Foutter, Bill Carlson, Julia Duncan, Florence Baturin, Mary Haskell, Ken Kreutziger, Gay Godfrey, Arthur Katz, Betsey Weiss, Iris Wheaton, Inky MacDougall, Winifred McGowan, Paul Linton, Martha Wood (LexHAB), Robert Cohen (Lexington Housing Authority), Tom Harden (Planning Board). Selectmen Liaison Norm Cohen, Conservation Commission Liaison Dick Wolk, Council on Aging Liaison Paul Lapointe. HIGHLIGHTS: • Provided input to Town Meeting in support of Article 10, Zoning By -law, Accessory Apartments. • Prepared and supported the Community Preservation Act (CPA) Warrant Articles for Town Meeting. • Supported the Planning staff to provide funds allocated from the WestMetro HOME Consortium for the proposed Supportive Living, Inc. (SLI) project for survivors of brain injury on the Lexington Press property. • Began collecting funds for the Lexington Housing Foundation, a non - profit tax - exempt housing trust, and applied them in support of the efforts to create an Inclusionary Zoning bylaw. • Worked with a consultant and the Planning staff and Board to adapt the Town's affordable housing guidelines to produce an Inclusionary Zoning bylaw. • Provided input to the Special Town Meeting in support of Article 2, the Battle Green Inn conversion, with its three affordable units for sale at 70% of area median income. • Performed independent analyses of various methods that could produce more affordable housing in Lexington. These studies are ongoing and will hopefully result in viable initiatives that can be pursued once resources are available to support them. • Participated in workshops on educating citizens about affordable housing and funding sources for affordable housing development. • Participated in the Lexington Center Collaborative on the Land Use sub -panel to explore permitting affordable resi- dential use in the Center. • With the support of Rep. Jay Kaufman and his office, par- ticipated in a meeting with the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) to determine if the AvalonBay at Lexington Square project could be qualified under 40R, the Commonwealth's Smart Growth law. DHCD determined that the development did not meet the "as of right" criteria and would not qualify under 40R. • Provided materials to the Town explaining the Mass Housing Municipal Mortgage Program, which is specifi- cally designed to help town employees purchase a home, with no down payment, in the town where they work. • Promoted awareness of the need for affordable housing in Lexington through posters, presentations, and print media. • Began development of a website with support from a stu- dent at Minuteman Regional High School. • Formed the CPA for the Lexington ballot question com- mittee and prepared a website, materials, and presenta- tions to educate Lexington citizens about CPA in anticipa- tion of their voting on the question on the March 2006 ballot. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 67 0 0 !lamps clog Conservation Commission ROLE: To admin- ister and enforce the Massachusetts Wetlands Protec- tion Act (M.G.L. Ch. 131, s.40) and the Wetland Pro- tection Code of the Town of Lex- ington (Chapter 130; formerly Lex- ington General By- law Article XXXII); to promote and develop natural resources, to protect the Town's three watersheds and associ- ated waterways and wetlands; to acquire and manage open land for passive recreation; to create buffers and to provide corridors for wildlife. The Commission's responsibilities include performing site visits; holding hearings and meetings with applicants, abutters, property managers, state and town boards, committees and subcommittees; issuing permits; man- aging conservation areas; protecting waterways and wetlands, and educating the public. APPOINTED by the Town Manager with the approval of the Selectmen for overlapping 3 -year terms: Chair Joyce Miller, Vice Chair Philip Hamilton, Duke Bitsko, Angela Frick, David Langseth, Richard Wolk, and Stewart Kennedy. Associate Commissioners: Paul Riffin, Community Gardens; David Williams, Land Acquisition; Susan Solomon, Tree Bylaw Committee (all former com- missioners); and Kay Tiffany, HATS. Karen Mullins is Director of Community Development /Conservation Administrator. Ery Largay resigned as Conservation Assistant in June and was replaced by Michelle Boissoneault in December. Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $82,585 $88,524 Community Development Budget Personnel Full Time 2" 1 Part Time 0 1 Due to maternity leave and hiring lag, there were only 2 full -time staff for 3 months in 2005. HIGHLIGHTS • Reviewed and acted on 36 Notices of Intent, 2 Abbreviated Notices of Resource Area Delineation, 31 Requests for Determinations, 11 Requests for Amendments to Orders of Conditions, 2 Emergency Certifications, 11 Enforcement Orders/Violations (18 Lois Lane, 57 Bedford Street, 271 Lincoln Street, 60 Sherburne Road, 14 Ridge Road, 5 Solomon Pierce Road, 440 Bedford Street, 38 Adams Street, 23 Bedford Street, 34 Allen Street, 102 Grove Street), 20 Certificates of Compliance, 5 Extension Permits, and 4 Conservation Restriction drafts; held 131 public hearings, and per- formed on -site inspections and monitoring for these and all other on -going projects. • Adopted revisions to the Code of the Town of Lexington Regulations Fee Schedule on January 11, which resulted in the ability to hire a full -time Conservation Assistant. • Participated in meetings and provided comments to the State regarding revisions to the Wetland Protection Act Regulations (310 CMR 10.00). • Assisted Engineering in the second year of implementation of the Town's NPDES Stormwater General Permit Notice of Intent for Discharges from Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s) to comply with Federal per- mit requirements under the NPDES Storm Water Program. The key elements of the Notice of Intent include incorpo- rating best management practices for six minimum con- trols: public education /outreach, public participation/ involvement, illicit discharge detection /elimination, con- struction site runoff control, post- construction stormwater management, and pollution prevention /good housekeep- ing for municipal operations; establishing measurable goals and a 5 -year schedule for achieving goals, and des- ignating responsible party(ies). • Monitored permit compliance at the following major sites (on- going): Former Metropolitan State Hospital (solid waste remediation, parkway construction, and Avalon Bay Communities), Brookhaven, Arlington Reservoir Dam, Route 128/2A Service Area, Fiske School, MIT Lincoln Labs, and 125 Hartwell Avenue. • Members represented the Conservation Commission to the following committees: Lexington Housing Partnership Committee, Minuteman Bicycle Advisory Committee, Metropolitan Hospital Land Use Task Force, Tree Bylaw Committee, Middlesex County Land Use Task Force, Planning Board Comprehensive Planning Committee, and Hanscom Field Task Force. • Managed over 1340 acres of conservation land with the help of volunteer land stewards, Eagle Scouts, and the Department of Public Works. Coordinated a core group of active land stewards referred to as Land Steward Directors to provide assistance in managing conservation areas and promoting conservation areas. Sponsored Walkin' Jim Stoltz to present his Forever Wild program at the Annual Fall Land Stewardship meeting and held Conservation Area Work Days at Hayden Woods and Dunback Meadows which resulted in new boardwalks and bridges, and improved trails. • Continued to provide an increased level of service pur- suant to State and Town wetland. Increased development, including additions and major "tear downs, " usually has a severe impact on adjacent brooks and streams. Runoff from roofs, driveways, and fertilized lawns are the major causes of stream pollution and flooding issues as all drainage is directed to the nearest waterway. To help min- imize development impacts especially in environmentally sensitive areas, the Commission encouraged landowners to preserve their open land by donating or selling it to the Town or by placing it under a conservation restriction. Page 68 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Conservation Land Inventory Summary 1964 - 2005 Year(s) Voted /Given Acres Total Cost Fed. Reimb. State Reimb. Net Cost to Town Total Land Acquisition 1345.1 $5,382,786 $335,406 $1,199,031 $3,843,349 Cataldo Reservation '74'84* 5.4 6,150 6,150 Great Meadow Expansion '74'82 1.9 3,857 3, 857 Lillian Road at Munroe Brook `92 1.1 transfer Orchard Crossing '88'89# 8.5 gift Whipple Hill `63'66 - 7'74'77"'94 #'95# 121.0 142,489 47,487 35,020 59,982 Bowman Park Expansion `75 1.2 18,000 9,000 9,000 Daisy Wilson `78 8.0 75,995 37,997 37,998 Dunback Meadow `65- 6'72'77 -8- 9'80 -1 "# 170.5 374,147 87,100 87,050 199,997 Liberty Heights `74" 5.5 9,596 4,618 4,978 West Farm '66'76'77'85* 12.8 323,000 12,100 310,900 Brookhaven `89# 3.3 gift Concord Avenue Area `71'79 #'94# 30.7 102,890 49,534 53,356 Hayden Woods 69'77-8'81"'03 79.2 157,598 68,304 38,540 45,754 Juniper Hill `70'72'74# 28.4 120,413 56,872 63,541 Metropolitan State Hospital `73# 6.2 gift Philbrook Terrace `89# 2.0 gift Waltham Line `77" 12.0 transfer Waltham Street Farms '72'76-7# 41.5 300,450 154,225 146,225 Upper Vine Brook 72'75 - 6'95''03" 48.7 121,443 55,803 65,640 Lower Vine Brook /Pinard Woods '68-9'75'78-9'81'85"# 98.5 339,235 42,069 147,200 149,966 Munroe Brook Pond `85# 3.1 gift Pheasant Brook Estates I `85'89# 4.6 gift Pheasant Brook Estates II `90# 29.7 gift Shaker Glen `73 16.8 85,636 41,143 44,493 Tower Park Expansion `87 2.3 180,000 180,000 Chiesa Farm `76'85 23.1 1,592,500 46,125 1,546,375 Hammer Hill `79 0.9 gift Parker Meadow `76'79'80 17.7 237,000 60,000 177,000 Willard's Woods Expansion 64'66'67'79"'95"'02# 104.2 116,786 32,906 17,997 65,883 Woodland Bird Sanctuary `89# 7.2 gift Burlington Strip `71'77" 8.6 106,097 106,097 Paint Mine '75'77* 35.5 8,811 2,000 6, 811 Simonds Brook North `70'76 -7'82# 57.7 291,736 38,526 131,600 121,610 Simonds Brook South `68'70'79 20.7 49,028 19,014 12,006 18,008 Turning Mill Pond `77'78'85# 9.7 5,000 5,000 Turning Mill Road `89# 4.4 gift Hastings Sanctuary `71 1.7 6,000 6,000 Meagherville /Pine Meadow `66'77" #95 " 90.0 gift /transfer Meagherville Lots `91 #'93 #'94# 0.5 gift Poor Farm `83" 10.7 transfer Valley Road `82'' 3.2 transfer 128 Greenbelt `78" 11.7 transfer Bates Road '91* 9.3 transfer Cranberry Hill `77 24.6 73,929 15,201 58,728 Fiske Hill `78'84" 10.2 transfer Idylwilde `75 9.4 200,000 100,000 100,000 Katandin Woods `77'80'89# 37.5 185,000 85,000 100,000 Tophet Swamp '81* 25.5 transfer Sutherland Woods `95" 24.9 transfer Brown Homestead '95* 6.0 trade Augusta Land `96 8.0 150,000 150,000 Hennessy's Field 99'' 10.0 transfer Hartwell Avenue 03# 4.1 gift Myrna Road 03# 0.8 gift North Street 05" 24.4 transfer " All /part Town -owned transfer # All /part gift Another 150 acres are protected by restrictions and easements given to the Town by residents. The largest are: Munroe Brook, 65.7 acres; Tophet Swamp/Kiln Brook, 34.3 acres; Potter's Pond, 15.1 acres; and Vine Brook, 9 acres.The others are as small as 0.1 acre. Boston Edison Company licenses 26.4 acres. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 69 Bicycle Advisory Committee ROLE: To advise the Selectmen and other Town boards and departments on issues that concern bicycling and related forms of human - powered transportation; to work with sur- rounding communities in developing a regional network of safe and efficient interconnections; and to promote these modes of travel as safe and healthful alternatives to the automobile. APPOINTED by the Selectmen: Chair Stew Kennedy, Harvey Bingham, John Frey, Erna Greene, Marita Hartshorn, Abe Shenker, Mike Tabaczynski, Jerry Van Hook and Jim Wichman. Liaisons: Hank Manz, Selectmen; Angela Frick, Conservation; Sandra Shaw, Recreation; and Tony Galaitsis, Planning. Lifetime member: Betty Eddison. HIGHLIGHTS • Organized volunteer help and conducted spring clean -up along the Lexington stretch of the Minuteman Bikeway and the Lower Vinebrook bikepath. Continued light prun- ing and brush removal along the Bikeway and on the Town's other bike paths, as needed, throughout the year. Divided the Bikeway into sections with a volunteer moni- tor for each — a "point person" keeping close watch over each section. • Working with the DPW, identified and prioritized Bikeway maintenance needs for DPW attention to be carried out as staff availability permits. As part of this, updated for DPW a prioritized list of recommended safety signage and pave- ment painting needs for all the Bikeway / roadway inter- sections in Town. Also fielded citizens' concerns about vis- ibility for motorists and Bikeway users at several of the roadway intersections and coordinated with DPW to trim /remove vegetation to correct problems. • Continued efforts to get approval for changes to lane markings on Hartwell Ave. to improve safety for bicyclists and pedestrians as well as for motorists. Continued to liaise with interested parties at Lincoln Lab who are advo- cating this. Interest remains high within the committee to get resolution for this safety problem. • Continued researching maps and doing site -walks in town land and over easements leading to town land, particular- ly near schools, as part of on -going efforts to identify and develop safe walking and bicycling routes for parents and school children. • Conducted a large trail improvement project in Dunback Meadow. In cooperation with the Conservation Stewards and, as the next in a series of projects to improve connec- tions between schools and neighborhoods, 11 bridges and boardwalks were built totaling over 750 feet in length on trails through Dunback Meadow that connect Bowman and Clarke schools. Also relocated a trail to drier ground. Funds for materials came from a state Recreational Trails Program grant. All labor was from volunteers including this committee, the Conservation Stewards, and many high school students. The result of this project is an all - season trail system. • Participated in the Center Collaborative, representing the bicycling community and Bikeway users in conceptualizing improvements for Lexington Center. Provided a list of rec- ommendations for access, safety, amenity, and aesthetic improvements. • Continued coordinating with the Center Committee and the Historical Society to work out mutually compatible plans for improvements in the Depot area. Continued dis- cussion of the idea to develop miniparks with bicycling themes and amenities along the Bikeway in the Town Center, one between the Grant Street bridge and the Center parking lot, and the other across Station Way from the Depot building. • Continued outreach to other communities and groups working to establish bikeways and rails -to- trails conver- sions, leveraging lessons learned from the hugely success- ful Minuteman Commuter Bikeway. Continued participa- tion in the State legislature's Rails / Trails, Bicycle, Pedestrian caucus. • Fielded and helped resolve Bikeway users' complaints about realty signage on the Bikeway. • Worked with abutters, the MWRA, the DPW and the Tree Committee to ameliorate several abutters' concerns about loss of screening plants as a result of the 2004 MWRA sewer line repair work near the Hancock Avenue crossing of the Bikeway. • Supported the Sidewalk Committee by providing an active member as liaison. Also contributed to the town -wide sidewalk survey that committee conducted. • Supported the Tree Committee in tree - planting project between the Bikeway and the CVS parking lot. • Through several members' active participation, provided close liaison with Conservation Stewards' work. Page 70 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington SOCIAL SERVICES Expenditures COA Payroll COA Expenses Youth Services Developmentally Disabled Veterans' Payroll Veterans' Expenses FY05 FY04 $128,960 $164,441 $ 36,888 $ 14,839 $ 33,853 $ 18,381 $139,806 $179,525 $ 6,173 $ 0 $ 28,093 $ 16,511 Personnel Full Time 7 7 Part Time 4 3 ROLE: To ensure the provision of core social services, including direct services, promoting health and well being, advocacy, financial support, educational and support pro- grams, cultural outreach, and recreational programs for res- idents of all ages and backgrounds. In collaboration with other town and school departments, community groups, and government agencies, the Lexington Social Services Department is committed to providing leadership in identi- fying unmet needs and working to provide appropriate pro- grams and services, and delivering these services in a pro- fessional manner that respects the dignity of all individuals served. APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Director Lauren MacNeil, March 2004. The Social Services Department is located in the Senior Center at 1475 Massachusetts Avenue in the Muzzey Condominium building. The location has been advanta- geous for both the user of the Senior Center and the Social Workers, considering that the majority of the services pro- vided by the department are for senior citizens. With the 2004 addition of a Youth and Family Services Coordinator to the staff, the department is now able to provide services to resident of all ages. The building is totally accessible for persons with disabilities. HIGHLIGHTS: • Hired a Social Services Nurse which allowed for the development of the Senior Health Monitor team, consist- ing of the Social Services Nurse, the Social Services Coordinator and the Supportive Day Care Director. Together they provided health assessments and appropri- ate referrals, developed in -home care plans, made regular visits to people in their homes, and provided nursing ser- vices, as appropriate. • Provided information, referral and /or case management for over 422 residents. • Provided general and /or mental health screenings to 267 individuals. • The Adult Supportive Day Care program provided sup- port to 66 individuals and respite for their families. • Participation in the Senior Tax Work Program increased from 31 to 44 eligible homeowners, with departments across the organization utilizing the expertise of partici- pating seniors. Seniors gave 4532 hours of service to the municipality in exchange for a reduction in their real estate tax bill. • Continued as supporting participants of Central Middlesex Association for Retarded Citizens. Approximately 26 people from Lexington are employed and receive services from this program. • Worked in cooperation with Minuteman Senior Services to provide 17,106 Meals on Wheels and 3797 congregate meals at the Senior Center. • As coordinator of a Friend to Friend program, provided 1019 volunteer hours of services to Lexington seniors by way of friendly visits and shopping assistance. • Provided over 350 hours to seniors in need of assistance preparing their tax returns, with volunteers trained by AARP. • With volunteers trained through Minuteman Senior Services, provided health benefit counseling to 132 indi- viduals through the SHINE program. • Managed Senior Center programs and operations. Professionals and volunteers led groups organized around finance, health, physical fitness, fine and applied arts, poetry, local, national and international government inter- est groups, current events, dance, music, travel, day trips, computers, film, history, spirituality, and games. • Mailed 47,300 newsletters, collated monthly by Senior Center volunteers. • Continued to recommend families in need of financial assistance to the Trustees of Public Trusts through the Human Services Fund and the Fund for Lexington. • Assisted veterans to obtain financial support through the Massachusetts Department of Veteran's Services. Requests for benefits are submitted to the agency through the Town's Veteran's Agent, and benefits granted help those in need with living expenses and health insurance costs. • Provided staff support and coordination to the Council on Aging Board, the Human Services Committee, the Fair Housing and Human Relations Committee, the Commission of Disability, the Friends of the Council on Aging, the No Place For Hate committee, and the Youth Services Council. • Presented Donald Graham with the Minuteman Cane Award for his many years of outstanding dedication and service to Lexington. A reception was held in his honor at the Senior Center. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 71 Council on Aging Or Front L -R: Shirley Buck, Lauren MacNeil, Marian Cohen, Jane Trudeau. Rear L -R: Tom Griffiths; Paul Lapointe, Bob Edwards, Betty Borghesani, Leo McSweeney, Don Graham, Freida Oliner, Richard Pagett. ROLE: As an advisory committee to the Department of Social Services, to recommend policies to support and advo- cate for seniors with regard to their changing social, educa- tional, and health - related needs. APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Chair Marian Cohen, Betty Borghesani, Bob Edwards, Dan Fenn, Donald Graham, Paul Lapointe, Leo McSweeney, Frieda Oliner, Jane Trudeau. HIGHLIGHTS • Presented to the Board of Selectmen a request to create a Senior Center Action Plan Committee, with the charge of presenting to the Selectmen and the 2006 Town Meeting an action plan that designates a site and establishes a bud- get and timeline for the design and construction of a new Senior Center. • Changing the program name from Adult Day Care to Supportive Day Care, continued assessment of the pro- gram operated at the Mill Street site in Lincoln, in partic- ular the benefits of increasing hours of operation. Recommendations were made in a report prepared for the Board of Selectmen. Implementation of the increased ser- vice, going from 4 to 5 days per week, is planned for July 2006. • Continued to coordinate efforts with the Friends of the Council on Aging and the Director of Social Services to develop short and long term goals for the Senior Center and the Social Services Department. • Long time Board member and senior services advocate Don Chisholm passed away in November 2005. He had brought a high level of passion and advocacy to the Council on Aging Board. He will be missed. Human Services Committee ROLE: To review the provision of social services to citizens of Lexington and to assess their adequacy, and to make pol- icy and program recommendations to the Board of Selectmen about new or amended services. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Chair Robert Dentler, William Blout, Matthew Cohen, Sarah Conklin, Pamela Joshi, Ellen McDonald, Russell Schutt, Selectmen Liaison Norman Cohen. Staffed by Social Services Coordinator Kelly Magee. HIGHLIGHTS • Focused on a collaborative study of the services available to assist "Disconnected Persons in Lexington," those indi- viduals or households who lack supportive connections with relatives and friends. Collected data from town departments and charitable agencies and interviewed agencies and charities based in Waltham, Bedford, and Arlington who provide help to Lexington residents. • A draft of the study will be completed during January 2006 with the final report to be submitted to the Selectmen in February 2006. Page 72 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington O 0 bupgEl S pinEa Commission on Disability ROLE: to ensure that people with disabilities are fully integrated into all aspects of the Town and that all can fully participate with- out barriers. The Commission makes recom- mendations concerning the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) within the Town. Members review and rec- ommend town policies as they affect those with disabilities, and provide information, guidance, and technical assistance to individ- uals and agencies. APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Chair Victoria Buckley, Susan Cusack, Charles Burt Cole, Michael Martignetti, Leonard Morse - Fortier, Daniel Perez, and Francine Stieglitz. Selectmen Liaison Hank Manz replaced Bill Kennedy. Staffed by ADA Coordinator Kelly Magee. HIGHLIGHTS: • Assisted the Sidewalk Committee in review- ing sidewalk safety and accessibility, espe- cially as related to the Safe Routes to School project. Requested that sidewalk inventory include where curb cuts are missing and where there are impediments for safe access (such as utility poles and trees placed in the center of sidewalks). • Continued to address safety problems for pedestrians in the Center, specifically the need to enforce the ordinance that prohibits bicycle riding on the sidewalks, and worked with other committees and the Police Department to find resolutions. • Reviewed the need to find a suitable substitute for brick sidewalks that is user- friendlier for disabled citizens. Continue to investigate how to balance disabled needs with historical preservation concerns. • Worked with other town committees on projects concern- ing access issues, such as the Planning Board regarding improved access in the Battle Green Inn plans, the Tourism Committee regarding the Liberty Ride, the Lexington Center Collaborative as part of the town -wide charrette. • Presented plans to improve access at Cary Hall at Town Meeting. Front L -R: Victoria Buckley, Kelly Magee. Cole, Francine Stieglitz, Susan Cusack. Back L -R: Hank Manz, Chuck • Continued to develop plans for future changes to make Town public buildings fully accessible by prioritizing the list of public buildings that still need to be renovated for ADA compliance, focusing first on safe entry and paths of travel as well as on functional need. • Met with Capital Expenditures Committee to plan pro- jects within the capital building envelope budget. • Attended meetings of the newly re- organized DRT group (Design Review Team) to be more pro- active in ensuring that new programs and buildings are seamlessly accessible. • Participated at LexFest with representative from Commission for the Deaf. • Held discussions with new Town Manager Carl Valente about the need for the Commission on Disability to be involved earlier in the project planning process and how to best facilitate this. • Discussed the need to become part of the approval check- off process for allocations for Common Victualler Licenses and building permits. • Defined the Commission's challenge for the future as being disability advocacy and education in order to raise Lexington's consciousness about the rights of the disabled to ensure full and seamless inclusion for all citizens in town events, programs, and projects. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 73 0 0 ZULEW lUeH Fair Housing and Human Relations Committee Front L -R: Kelly Magee, Jean Hibino. Rear L -R: Chang S. Ting, Tom Montanari. 6upgel S pined :ologd ROLE: To serve as an advisory committee to the Board of Selectmen in order to achieve community enrichment as contributed by citizens with diverse backgrounds and heritages. The Committee seeks to prevent discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, age, income, marital status, children, gender, or sexual orientation. The Committee's human relations agenda calls for the fair and equitable treatment of all citizens, regardless of group mem- bership. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Chair Thomas Montanari, Harriet Cohen, Jean Hibino, and Chang -Sheng Ting. Selectmen Liaison Henry Manz. Social Service Coordinator Kelly Magee. HIGHLIGHTS: • Members promoted affordable housing by participating in the Lexington Housing Partnership, the Met State Planning Task Force, the DPW /Senior Center Task Force, and attending MAPC regional planning meetings. • Committee member assigned as a liaison to the Incident Response Team. • Supported the Community Preservation Act for Lexington. • Participated in No Place for Hate and Quality Circles. • Worked with LexFest assisting with planning and organizing. Lexington Youth Commission ROLE: To provide and promote community service activities for the Town's high school students. APPOINTED by the Town Man- ager: Chair Nancy Lee Barter; Adult Advisors: Beverly Kelley, Maria Kostorizos, Kathy Litchfield, Douglas Lucente, and Sean Maloney. APPOINTED By LYC Chair: President Kirsten DiFronzo, Co- Vice Presidents Josh McBride and Drew Smith, Secretary Katie Cerundolo, Team Captains Kelly Harvell, Melissa Lehman, Haley Busa, and Kristina Hankins; Fundraiser Kate Wilson, Publicity Devin Shaw, Youth members: John Bienkowski, Luke Dilillo, Jason Fishman, Kaitlin Foley, Ryan Gelnaw, Joey Hankins, Patrick Hogen, Freddy Janney, Julie Langsett, Alicia Maestri, Seth Politi, Lauren Schuler, Kevin Schuster, Eric Simmons, David Smoot, Alex Sullivan, Amanda Ting, Rachel Villari, Olivia Wilson, and Bryan Woodward. HIGHLIGHTS • Cared for the LYC Island by planting flowers and shrubs in spring and fall. 4_1=mMEWAMILl I °' J Front L -R: Kristina Hankins, Eric Simmons, Josh McBride, Kirsten DiFronzo, Katie Cerundolo, Drew Smith, Alicia Maestri, Kevin Schuster, Joey Hankins, Bryan Woodward. Middle L -R: Amanda Ting, Kate Wilson, Melissa Lehman, Kelly Harvell, Julie Langseth, Rachel Villari, Kaitlin Foley. Rear L -R: Maria Kostorizos, Haley Busa, Lauren Schuler, David Smoot, Jason Fishman, Sean Maloney, Alex Sullivan, Devin Shaw, John Bienkowski, Freddy Janney, Ryan Gelnaw, Luke Dilillo. • Served Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine's dinners to the Council on Aging. • Delivered turkeys for Thanksgiving Day to Lexington families in need. • Held December Toy Drive for children in need in Lexington. • Visited elementary schools in fall and winter to read to children and help with classroom activities. • Sold refreshments to Town Meeting members with pro- ceeds sent to the Red Cross in aid of hurricane victims. • Participated in Patriots' Day parade winning first prize for a float in the youth division. Gave out 5000 American flags to children along the parade route. Page 74 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington 0 0 bilagel .S pined CULTURE AND LEISURE Cary Memorial Library ROLE: To provide the Lexington community with materials, resources, and services that promote lifelong learning and cultural enrichment; to provide collections in a variety of for- mats to a culturally and educationally diverse population; and to provide a knowledgeable, responsible staff to facilitate the retrieval of information and use of the Library's resources. Expenditures FY05 FY04 Payroll $1,400,313 $1,289,480 Expenses $ 276,859 $ 255,297 Personnel Full Time 25 25 Part Time 23 15 Circulation 651,592 456,202 The governing body of the Library, established by the will of Maria Hastings Cary, is the Board of Library Trustees consisting of the Town's settled ministers, principal clergy of each congregation in Town, and Selectmen and School Committee members. APPOINTED by the Trustees: Director Connie Rawson as of July 1. The Trustees elect an Executive Committee: Chair Scott Burson, Jeanne Krieger, Helen Cohen, Rev. Dr. Peter Meek, Richard Pagett. In October, Tom Diaz and Rabbi Howard Jaffe were elected to replace Helen Cohen and Rev. Dr. Peter Meek. The Executive Committee appoints the Advisory Committee: Chair Stephen Krensky, Edwin Cox, Betty Clark, Audrey Friend, Ione Garing, Isabel Jankleson, and Walter Pierce. State Certification and Library Funding After obtaining a waiver in 2004 for failing to meet the Total Appropriated Municipal Income standards set by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, the Library came to comply with these standards in 2005. However, retaining the Library's certification remained a serious challenge for the Town. By Massachusetts law, public libraries must spend 13% of their total budgets on their collections or risk losing their cer- tification and State funding. In FY05, Cary Library spent only 11% or $214,466 of its total operating budget on the Library's collections. Of that amount, the Town contributed $53,370. The remainder came from private sources and fines. This failure to meet the State standard resulted in a 25% reduction in State aid. When the total spent drops below 10.4 %, a library becomes uncertified and usually cannot offer their patrons interlibrary loan services, and their card- holders may lose borrowing privileges in other towns. There is no waiver for this component of State compliance. In Lexington, the Town relies substantially on private fund- ing to meet its 13% obligation to the collections. This year, these sources accounted for $161,096. A most significant private source of funding is the Trustees' endowment, ultimate which now stands at $852,159. That is down from $2,082,000 before the building renovation. With the endow- ment less robust than it used to be, the Library's ability to generate non -tax revenue to meet the 13% standard has become increasingly difficult. Al- though private contributions includ- ing gifts from the Friends and the Cary Memorial Library Foundation have become of growing importance, the responsibility to meet certification requirements rests with the Town. Reference, Adult, and Young Adult Services • Reference librarians answered over 3000 questions per month, with the busiest time being Sunday afternoon. • Over 4000 people per month use the Library's Internet connections. • A new monthly mystery book group, "Death by the Book," boasts over 20 members. • Young Adult programming has continued to grow and expand. There are 38 Teen Advisory Board members rang- ing in age from 13 to 18. • Two notable gifts increased the gardening /horticultural collection and made possible the creation of a "Teen Issues" collection in the Young Adult area. • Under the direction of the Board of Trustees, an Exhibit Policy was written and an Art Selection Committee was formed. In December, the committee began accepting sub- missions from local artists. Circulation Department • 322,952 items from the adult collection were circulated, an increase of 23% over last year. • Resource sharing, made possible between area libraries through the Minuteman Library Network, has become a huge part of library service. Patrons have been utilizing this service to great advantage. According to the Metrowest December Newsletter, delivery has increased 19% from October 2004. There has been a 42% increase in delivery since the installation of the new software sys- tem in 2003. This year Lexington loaned 26,204 items to the network and borrowed 58,525. • From August to late November, the Minuteman Library Network temporarily suspended the placement of requests on audiovisual materials due to a tremendous backlog. A committee has been formed to develop "best practices" for all libraries within the consortium, with Lexington playing a vital role. • Registered 2770 new library patrons. continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 75 Cary Memorial Library continued from previous page Children's Services Holdings Information • Circulated 276,779 items, 45% of the Library's total cir- culation. Circulation of chil- dren's items is at 110% of the 2000 juvenile circulation before the move to temporary quarters at Cary Hall, and 105.3% of the 2004 juvenile circulation. Children's Room staff answered 6294 reference questions, and registered 724 new borrowers. 1185 patrons used the Children's Room Internet terminal, and 924 used the Children's CD -ROM terminal. 4226 items were added to the Children's Room collection. • 12,907 patrons attended 246 children's programs. This figure includes the 1391 participants in the summer read- ing program, which encouraged children and their families to spend a total of 21,210 hours reading. • A wide range of special events served infants through ele- mentary school -age students, including movies, sing -a- long programs, theater presentations, story sessions, and the fourth annual Library Truck Day. Several programs were offered cooperatively with the Lexington Recreation Department and the Lexington Youth Commission. • Staff offered an in- service program to Lexington preschool teachers and home childcare providers. Technology • New technology installed in the Meeting Room permits the use of a laptop Internet connection along with integrated /projector /screen, microphones, assistive listening devices, and a video /DVD player. Staff trained 43 persons from 32 organizations in the use of the Library's audiovisu- al equipment. There were 133 meetings or events in the Library at which this equipment was used. • The Lexington Lions Club generously donated funds to be used for a PC, scanner, large- screen LCD monitor and Kurzweil software (text -to- speech) for use by patrons living with temporary or permanently reduced vision. Patrons who have learning preferences for the spoken word, ESL students, and patrons learning foreign languages also bene- fit from this technology. • There were 9733 public logins from patrons' own laptops and PDAs to the Internet through the Library's wireless and wired "guest" service network. The average daily and weekly logins (28 and 187, respectively) represent a 60% increase in usage over 2004. • There were 10,386 visits to the Library's website, www.carylibrary.org, from PCs outside the Library. • The Library received nearly 22,000 telephone calls (1833 per month). Of these, calls to the three public service desks averaged 1630 per month. East Lexington Branch Library • Children's book circulation increased by 20%, returning to the level it was before the Main Library moved to the new building; adult circulation rates remain the same. Personnel • With the departure of Director Carol Mahoney in December 2004, the Town's MIS Coordinator Connie Rawson became Acting Director while the Trustees con- ducted a search for a replacement. After a selection process, Connie Rawson was appointed Library Director on July 1. • Two part -time Library Assistant positions were added, and two part -time vacancies were filled in the Circulation Department. Friends of Cary Memorial Library • Contributed $10,000 to the adult book and audiovisual budget, $3200 to Children's Room programs, and pur- chased benches for both library entrances. These moneys were raised through the sale of gently used books. • Sponsored five evening events featuring a wide variety of speakers and entertainment. • Purchased museum passes and discounts. • Supplied volunteers to help keep the Library running smoothly. 2005 saw the sad loss of Volunteer Coordinator Helen Cravis. Linda Cohen and Betsy Allen have taken over as Volunteer Coordinators. Cary Memorial Library Foundation • Worked with the Director to seek community opinions about the Library through April's Community Conversations pro- gram, and a summertime Adult Services Survey, which received over 400 responses. • Sponsored November's "A Long Weekend in Bhutan" pro- gram showcasing the world's largest published book, speakers, and a film. • Transferred final payment to the Town fulfilling a pledge to raise $4 million in private funds for the building reno- vation project. • Fundraising activities enabled the transfer of almost $37,000 to fund materials and programs. Additional distri- butions will be made when the FY05 audit is completed. Page 76 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Adult FY05 FY04 Children's Total FY05 FY04 FY05 FY04 Books 130,140 127,577 71653 69,871 201,793 197,448 Print Periodicals 663 712 119 28 782 740 Audio 6,729 6,359 2065 2,593 8794 8,952 Videocassettes /DVDs 5,774 4,861 2136 2,031 7910 6,892 Materials in Electronic Format 15 7 466 303 481 310 Materials in Microform 7,306 7,143 0 0 7306 7,143 Miscellaneous (kits, framed art work, slide sets, films 0 0 164 164 164 164 Totals 150,627 146,659 76,603 74,990 227,230 221,649 added to the Children's Room collection. • 12,907 patrons attended 246 children's programs. This figure includes the 1391 participants in the summer read- ing program, which encouraged children and their families to spend a total of 21,210 hours reading. • A wide range of special events served infants through ele- mentary school -age students, including movies, sing -a- long programs, theater presentations, story sessions, and the fourth annual Library Truck Day. Several programs were offered cooperatively with the Lexington Recreation Department and the Lexington Youth Commission. • Staff offered an in- service program to Lexington preschool teachers and home childcare providers. Technology • New technology installed in the Meeting Room permits the use of a laptop Internet connection along with integrated /projector /screen, microphones, assistive listening devices, and a video /DVD player. Staff trained 43 persons from 32 organizations in the use of the Library's audiovisu- al equipment. There were 133 meetings or events in the Library at which this equipment was used. • The Lexington Lions Club generously donated funds to be used for a PC, scanner, large- screen LCD monitor and Kurzweil software (text -to- speech) for use by patrons living with temporary or permanently reduced vision. Patrons who have learning preferences for the spoken word, ESL students, and patrons learning foreign languages also bene- fit from this technology. • There were 9733 public logins from patrons' own laptops and PDAs to the Internet through the Library's wireless and wired "guest" service network. The average daily and weekly logins (28 and 187, respectively) represent a 60% increase in usage over 2004. • There were 10,386 visits to the Library's website, www.carylibrary.org, from PCs outside the Library. • The Library received nearly 22,000 telephone calls (1833 per month). Of these, calls to the three public service desks averaged 1630 per month. East Lexington Branch Library • Children's book circulation increased by 20%, returning to the level it was before the Main Library moved to the new building; adult circulation rates remain the same. Personnel • With the departure of Director Carol Mahoney in December 2004, the Town's MIS Coordinator Connie Rawson became Acting Director while the Trustees con- ducted a search for a replacement. After a selection process, Connie Rawson was appointed Library Director on July 1. • Two part -time Library Assistant positions were added, and two part -time vacancies were filled in the Circulation Department. Friends of Cary Memorial Library • Contributed $10,000 to the adult book and audiovisual budget, $3200 to Children's Room programs, and pur- chased benches for both library entrances. These moneys were raised through the sale of gently used books. • Sponsored five evening events featuring a wide variety of speakers and entertainment. • Purchased museum passes and discounts. • Supplied volunteers to help keep the Library running smoothly. 2005 saw the sad loss of Volunteer Coordinator Helen Cravis. Linda Cohen and Betsy Allen have taken over as Volunteer Coordinators. Cary Memorial Library Foundation • Worked with the Director to seek community opinions about the Library through April's Community Conversations pro- gram, and a summertime Adult Services Survey, which received over 400 responses. • Sponsored November's "A Long Weekend in Bhutan" pro- gram showcasing the world's largest published book, speakers, and a film. • Transferred final payment to the Town fulfilling a pledge to raise $4 million in private funds for the building reno- vation project. • Fundraising activities enabled the transfer of almost $37,000 to fund materials and programs. Additional distri- butions will be made when the FY05 audit is completed. Page 76 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Recreation ROLE: To plan and administer public play- grounds and recre- ational facilities in the Town and to expand and pro- mote recreation, leisure activities, play, sport, physi- cal fitness, and education for all citizens. APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Chair Sandra Shaw, Vice Chair Pamela Varrin, Rick DeAngelis and Richard Thuma. Staff Director Karen Simmons, Assistant Director Sheila Butts, and Superintendent of Public Grounds David Pinsonneault. Expenditures' Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $484,084 $844,761 $461,607 $807,645 Personnel Full Time 5 5 Seasonal/ 175 200 Part Time Financed by the Recreation Enterprise Fund through user fees (including Pine Meadows Golf Course). Indirect trans- fers are not included. In addition, the Recreation Enterprise Fund contributes $100,000 per year toward the Lincoln Park debt service, $75,000 for services provided by the Parks Department, and approximately $22,000 towards employee benefits. HIGHLIGHTS: • Recreational programs and Pine Meadow Golf Course served a total of 144,690 participants. • Increased numbers of participants in Youth and Teen pro- grams, Adult Gym, Kindergarten Soccer, Moms Softball League, Adult Aquasize and Aquajog programs, Summer Camp and Clinic programs, and increased swimming hours at pool and Old Res. • Permitted 39,262 hours on ball fields, and updated Field Use and Permitting Policy for all user groups. • Playground rehabilitation at Kineen and Rindge Playgrounds was completed; also, reconstruc- tion of the Adams tennis and basketball courts was complet- ed. • Aerator installed at the Old Res resulted in improved water qual- ity and increased attendance. • Lincoln Park Fitness Path upgrade completed, tree planti- ng at the Worthen Road entrance and ongoing work on the Cattail Marsh Overlook, in collaboration with the Lincoln Park Subcommittee. • Partnerships with Cary Memorial Library included a Scrabble Club, storytelling, and sculpting programs. • Coordinated "Mass Shape Up," a town employee wellness program, in partnership with town departments and Massachusetts Department of Public Health. • Received grants to promote community tennis programs, and to promote sun safety and skin cancer awareness. • Partnered with Special Olympics and LABBB at special track & field event at Center Track. • Sponsored weekly adult indoor soccer program at LHS, and the summertime Nike Field Hockey Camp at Lincoln Park. • Received Design of Facility Award for Lincoln Park from Massachusetts Recreation & Park Association. The Recreation Committee expressed sadness with the death in 2005 of long -time colleague Don Chisholm. His significant contributions to Recreation and the Town of Lexington are sincerely appreciated and will continue to inspire the future service of recreation advocates. Also appreciated are the many partnerships that have been developed to better serve the recreational needs of our citi- zens: Lexington Youth Lacrosse, Lexington United Soccer Club, Lexington Little League and Babe Ruth League, Boy Scouts and Eagle Scouts, Skate Park Committee, Sutherland Park Committee, Lincoln Park Subcommittee, Friends of Rindge Park, Bicycle Advisory Committee, LHS Helping Hands, Minute Man Regional High, and other town departments, such as the Schools, Library, Conservation and DPW. 11.111110WOMMEMPIM r � _ L -R: Hank Manz, Karen Simmons, David Pinsonneault, Sandra Shaw, Don Chisolm, Richard Thuma, Sheila Butts. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 77 0 0 bilage± S pinEa Tourism Committee ROLE: To improve the quality of the Lexington tourist experience for both visitors and the Town by coordi- nating the efforts of State, regional, and local organiza- tions. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Chair Kerry Brandin, Dawn McKenna, Susan Bennett, Richard Canale, Bill Scouler, Bebe Fallick, Chuck French, John Ott, Paul O'Shaughnessy, and Lou Sideris. Mary Jo Bohart was appointed in the fall to represent the Chamber of Commerce. Dawn McKenna, the former Selectmen Liaison, was appointed and elected to chair the Committee in October, a position held for the previous three years by Kerry Brandin who will continue as a member. Selectmen Liaison Richard Pagett. Liberty Ride Program Coordinator and Director of Battle Green Guides Masha Traber. Expenditures Liberty Ride FY05 FY04 Payroll $26,167" $20,490" Expenses $52,100" $47,702' Personnel Seasonal 6 6 Note: All expenses for the Liberty Ride were covered by operating rev- enue, grants, and donations. Net cost to the Town was zero. HIGHLIGHTS: • Operated the third season of the Liberty Ride at no expense to the Town. The FY05 operating deficit of $24,844 was covered by donations. • After the success of last April's pilot operation, the Liberty Ride operated for three days over Patriots' Day week- end. • Launched the fourth season of the Liberty Ride, expanding operations into June with the program running from June 18 through October 16. The char- ter business of the Liberty Ride expand- ed tremendously generating revenues of $14,775. The Liberty Ride hosted more than 3900 passengers from throughout the United States and abroad. England continues to send many visitors, as do the states of California and Texas. Several experienced guides returned for the season and a pay differential was established between new and experi- enced guides. The Ride had an substan- tially smaller operating deficit as of December than in previous years. Remaining gift funds and fundraising will offset any deficit and provide a base for operations in the spring. • The Liberty Ride trademark application was approved by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Both the logo, which was designed by Lexington resident and illus- trator Christopher Bing, as well as the words are now pro- tected. • Management of the Battle Green Guides by the Liberty Ride coordinator Masha Traber has provided an addition- al consistency to the tourism experience in Lexington. Guides covered the Battle Green on weekends during April, May and June and daily from mid -June through October. These guides are a wonderful resource to visitors and help encourage tourists to visit the historic houses and shop in Lexington. These paid guides provided tours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week. • The Committee continued designing directional signs to help guide visitors to the Town's historic sites and attrac- tions and determining appropriate locations for place- ment. The Historical Society is also working to integrate their house signs into this new signage system which has approval from the Historic Districts Commission. • Grace Watson, a volunteer at the Visitor's Center, was honored by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism as an extraordinary volunteer supporting tourism in Massachusetts. She was presented with a plaque at a statewide dinner by Lieutenant Governor Healy. Front L -R: Susan Bennett, Marsha Traber, Bebe Fallick, Mary Jo Bohart. Rear L- R: Dawn McKenna, Sideris, John Ott. Richard Pagett, Charles French, Richard Canale, Lou Page 78 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington bilagEl s pinEa :ologd Cary Lecture Series Committee ROLE: To provide a variety of free, educational, and enter- taining events open to all Lexington residents in accordance with the wills of the Cary sisters by bringing to Lexington a range of cultural experiences that might not otherwise be available. Suggestions for future programming are wel- come. APPOINTED by the Moderator: Chair Nancy Shepard, Barbara Palant, Joseph Brain, and associate member Lawrence Kernan. HIGHLIGHTS • For the 2004 -2005 season, the first program was held in January at the National Heritage Museum. Dance Asia presented two afternoon performances geared for family entertainment. Dance Asia is a professional troupe of four Peking Opera performers and a narrator that features ancient Chinese tales as told through dance, acrobatics, martial arts, and mime. • The March program featured Dr. Maria Zuber, a Lexington resident and the E. A. Griswold Professor of Geophysics and Head of the Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences at MIT. The topic was Water on Mars: From Past to Present. • The first program of the 2005 -2006 season was held at Cary Hall in September and covered Civil Liberties in a Time of War, a lecture by Anthony Lewis, Pulitzer Prize winner and former New York Times columnist. • In October, Laura Shapiro, noted author and critic, spoke at Cary Hall on Men, Women and Julia: How Americans Changed the Gender of French Cooking. • The final lecture held in December at the National Heritage Museum, featured Sir Tim Berners -Lee, a Lexington resident, discussing The World Wide Web: Its Birth and Future Directions. Lexington Council for the Arts ROLE: To assess grant applications for arts project funding and make grant awards from funds allocated by the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC); to encourage and subsidize attendance by students in Lexington schools at a wide range of regional arts events; to raise funds from private sources to promote the arts in Lexington. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Chair Joan Reddy, Alan Adolph, Ella Bayliss, Barbara Ciampa, and Marion Kilson. HIGHLIGHTS: • Supported the Munroe Center for the Arts in a special project for LABBB, the New Rep Theatre in a pro- duction in Lexington, and PASS grants to students in the Estabrook and Bridge schools. • Continued to converse with Cary Library about a pending gift. • Raised Patrons' Funds in the spring for the next town project. • Presented the Ella Lou Dimmock Award to a Lexington High student chosen by the music faculty. • Joan Reddy attended the Selectmen's breakfast for the town chairs. • Marion Kilson and Barbara Ciampa attended the 25th Anniversary Celebration for MCC at the State House. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 79 Town Celebrations Committee ROLE: To plan and carry out proper obser- vances of Expenditures FY05 FY04 Expenses $24,300 $23,411 Patriots' Day, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and all such holidays and special events as the Board of Selectmen may designate. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen for overlapping 3- year terms: Chair Robert Tracey, Suzanne Barry, Sally Fisher, Mary Gillespie, Jo -Anne Granger, Sondra Lucente, Henry Murphy, Sandra Podgorski, Charles Price, Jr. Subcommittee: Paul Jenkins, Julie Miller, William Mix, John Rossi, and James Shaw. Honorary Members: C. Jean Coates, Raymond Flynn and Marion Snow. Selectmen Liaison Norman Cohen. Patriots' Day — Monday, April 18, 2005 Taleen Nazarian, Lexington High School Senior Class President, led the Youth Parade and served as M.C. for the ceremonies on the Battle Green following the parade. Rev. Andrew Mahalares, Pastor at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church gave the invocation and benediction. Lexington High School student Katya Dryer -Oren sang the National Anthem. The following awards were presented: • Jacqueline Hai received the Cecil K. Harris Award from the Lexington Minute Men Company. • Dr. Lisa Neal was presented the Dan H. Fenn, Jr. /Lexington Minute Men Company award. • Jim and Don Wilson of Wilson Farm accepted the William P. Fitzgerald Appreciation award. The award is in honor of Fitzgerald who served on the Town Celebrations Committee for 20 years. • Casey McAlduff, Youth Commission President, was pre- sented with the 2005 Youth Recognition Award. • Donald Graham was the recipient of the 2005 Minuteman Cane Award. • Elsa Sullivan was presented the 2005 White Tricorn Hat by Lexington Lions Club President Doug Lucente. The 2005 afternoon Parade theme was "Support Our Troops." Serving as Chief Marshal for the afternoon parade was Winston Flynn, Captain, US Army (Ret) Green Beret. His Chief of Staff was Charles Grossimon, USCG Auxiliary, CDR Flotilla 38, supported by Aides LTC Barry Cunha, USAF(R), SPC David Andre, Massachusetts National Guard, A1C Jason Esposito, USAF, and Joyce Massello, Capt. USAF(R). Serving as the Spirit of '76 in both parades were: Emily Lenhart, fife; Hannah Margulies, fife; Andrew Crocker drummer; and Jeff Gilbert, flag bearer. continued on next page 71.1 Front L -R: Sally Fisher, Jo -Anne Grainger, Sonda Lucente, Jean Coates, Sandy Podgorski. Rear L -R: Henry Murphy, Mary Gillespie, Charles Price. Page 80 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Town Celebrations Committee continued from previous page The float winners were: • Commercial Division 1st — Wagon Wheel Nursery 2nd — Wilson Farm and Mahoney's Garden Center • Civic Division 1st — Charles River Sail and Power Squadron • Youth Division 1st — Pop Warner Football 2nd — Dance Inn Thanks to the Lexington Chamber of Commerce, local businesses, and those organizations who contributed toward the success of the parade. Memorial Day — Monday, May 30, 2005 The Memorial Day parade was led by Chief Marshal LTC Russell Lachance, US Army, and his aides: CSM Robert Lachance, US Army (Ret), and members of Lexington VFW Post #3007. Members of the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts assisted with wreath laying at Westview Cemetery, Munroe Cemetery, Lexington Police Department Memorial in front of the Police Department, Korean/Vietnam War Memorial at Cary Hall, the VFW/WWII Memorial and the Soldiers' Monument near the Visitors Center, the Old Burying Ground, and at the Revolutionary War Monument on the Battle Green. Taleen Nazarian, LHS Senior Class President, read General Logan's Orders of the Day and recited the Gettysburg Address at Munroe Cemetery. Rev. Gary Underwood, Chaplain, Hanscom Air Force Base, 66th Air Base Wing, gave the invocation and benediction on the Battle Green. Jeanne Krieger, Chair of the Board of Selectmen, read Greetings from the State. TCC Chair Tracey introduced Col. Gary S. Connor, USAF Commander, Electronics Systems Center, HAFB, who gave the address of the day. Veterans Day - Friday, November 11, 2005 Chief Marshal was Robert Cataldo. His Aides were Lexington VFW Post #3007 members: Thomas Driscoll, Edward Fitzgerald, David Hamblen, William Hooper, Aurio Pierro, Frank Samuel and William Simmons. Members of the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts assisted with wreath laying at the Korean/Vietnam War Memorial at Cary Hall, the VFW /WWII Memorials and the Soldiers' Monument near the Visitors Center, the Revolutionary War Monument, and the POW /MIA Memorial on the Battle Green. First Lt. Jeremy Bastian, Chaplain, Hanscom Air Force Base, offered the invocation and benediction. Lexington High student Allie Whitfield, accompanied by the LHS Band, sang the National Anthem. Jeanne Krieger, Chair of the Board of Selectmen, read the Proclamation for Veterans Day. This year, in order to engage Lexington youth and the com- munity in honoring veterans, an essay contest was conduct- ed for grades 4 through 12 on the subjects of "History of Armistice Day/Veterans Day" and "Thank you for your Service." Forty -one entries were received. TCC member Mary Gillespie introduced the four contest winners who read their essays: "History of Armistice Day" by Jessica Zhu and Juhee Park and "Thank You for your Service" by Vikas Pydah and Ben Johnson. All entries are in a memori- al book given to the Board of Selectmen for preservation in the Town Archives. Dolores Hidalgo Sister City Committee ROLE: To continue cultural exchanges between Lexington residents and the town of Dolores Hidalgo, Mexico which began in 1966. These cities were linked because each has the distinction of being the birthplace of their country's independence. BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Chair Ellie Noz, Gloria Holland, Cheryl Ricci, Marion Snow, Carroll Ann Bottino, Bill Noz, Alma MacDonald, Mike MacDonald, and Eva Gil. HIGHLIGHTS: • In July, four guests from Dolores Hidalgo visited Lexington. Activities included a tour of Lexington Center including Cary Library, Wilson Farm and the Minute Man National Historical Park, a day in Rockport, a day in Boston, and a traditional July 4th barbeque. • In September, Bill and Ellie Noz and Steve and Linda Curran visited Dolores Hidalgo for Mexico's Independence Day festivities. They attended the "Grito," a re- enactment of the "shout" for independence given on the steps of the original church in 1810, complete with fireworks and mariachi music. The Governor of the State of Guanajuato led this year's ceremony. Other activities included a concert by the U. of Guanajuato Symphony, a folkloric group performing traditional Mexican songs, and various fiestas with demonstrations of dancing and lasso handling. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 81 Communications Advisory Committee ROLE: To advise the Board of Selectmen on all aspects of wired and wireless communication and data services to and within the Town; to serve as ombudsman for Town users of such services; when stipulated by the Selectmen, to repre- sent the Town in negotiations and during contractual /license relationships with providers of those ser- vices; when stipulated by the Selectmen, to monitor and evaluate compliance of any Lexington contracted Public, Education, and Government Access Corporation; to oversee any network which includes municipal and /or school build- ings; to help set Town regulations and review applications to the Town for wired and wireless communications and data services; and to advise the Selectmen and other Town officials on managing the Town's growing information-han - dling needs and any supporting networks. APPOINTED by the Selectmen: Chair Jeanne Canale (administrative operations), Stephen Ellis (network opera- tions and negotiation strategy), David Becker (technology and Access Initiative), Connie Rawson (Cary Memorial Library Director, liaison to schools, town & library), David Buczkowski (legal and regulations), Edmond Vail III (wire- less and business), Miriam Boucher (wireless, information technology and Access Corporation planning), Maria Kieslich (marketing and project planning), James Akimchuk ( access, production and business operations), James Baker (news media, network columnist, writer and editor). Selectmen Liaison Jeanne Krieger. Lexington Studio Operations /Phase 11 Access Corporation for Local Cable and PEG Programming • Appointed Transition Subcommittee to facilitate the tran- sition of Lexington Studio from Comcast Corporation to the Town. • Managed Lexington Studio operations during interim (April— September). Oversaw personal, financial and phys- ical resources. • Worked with consultant on Phase II of contract to estab- lish an Access Corporation. Identified tasks: Establish Board of Conveners to develop bylaws and select an initial Board of Directors for the Access Corporation. • Developed RFP for Programming, Operations and Management of Access Corporation. • Worked with Town Procurement Officer for competitive bidding and procurement for Access Corporation. • Worked on bidder selection process evaluating proposals and making recommendation to the Town. • Worked with LexMedia on cable and I -Net related issues. • Oversee LexMedia contract obligations to the Town for PEG programming. • Oversee PEG Revolving Fund. Wireless Telecommunication • Updated inventory of town -wide wireless facilities. • Reviewed three wireless provider antenna applications for compliance with the bylaws and made recommendations to the Selectmen. RCN Contract/Build -Out Obligations • Coordinated efforts with Town and RCN to issue Notification of Public Hearing, to complete network build -out, and to provide relief to 655 Lexington homes via partial payment by customers for RCN hook -up. Comcast • Worked with Comcast to reconfigure I -Net to meet the future needs of the Town; including real -time broadcasting from Lexington Community TV (LCTV). • Facilitated the designation of a third -party payment center in the Town for Comcast business transactions. Verizon Cable TV License • Began Initial Cable TV licensing process with Verizon. • Created Issuing Authority Report Specifications and Formal Request for Cable TV License. Page 82 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington FINANCES Appropriation Committee ROLE: To advise the Town and Town Meeting on all fiscal matters. Expenditures FY05 FY04 Expenses $1,000 $1,000 APPOINTED by the Moderator for overlapping 3 -year terms: Chair Alan Levine, Vice Chair Deborah Brown, John Bartenstein, Rod Cole, Richard Eurich, Paul Hamburger, David Kanter, and Eric Michelson. Ronald Pawliczek served until June and was replaced by Pam Hoffman as of July. 2005 Annual Town Meeting Supported the following: • Art. 14. Municipal Lighting Plant resolution reconfirming and renewing votes taken by prior Town Meetings support- ing the enactment of legislation confirming that a munici- pality can purchase electric assets to form a municipal light- ing plant in accordance with M.G.L. c. 164; and authoriz- ing the Board of Selectmen to petition the General Court of Massachusetts for an act enabling the Town itself to do so. • Art. 15. Property Tax Exemption, expanding property tax relief available to lower- income senior citizens. • Art. 18. The establishment of a revolving fund, to be called the Lexington Tree Fund, to fund, up to a maximum amount of $75,000, the planting, transplanting, mainte- nance and care of trees from private contributions and mitigation contributions paid under the Town's Tree Bylaw. • Art. 22. Fast Track Auction Law resolution, expressing the Town's concern about the adverse effect of the fast track auction law, enacted in Outside Section 548 of the State FY 2004 Budget, on the Town's ability to influence the disposition or use of sur- plus state property located within the Town; and requesting that Town offi- cials and legislative represen- tatives work to restore the Town's ability to guide the future use of such property. • Art. 26. Appropriation of $65,000 for playground and recreation facility improve- L -R: Michael Young, Alan ments at Rindge Playground Kanter and the Center Recreation Complex. • Art. 28. By a vote of 8 -1, the appropriation of $50,000 to complete a hydrology study at Pine Meadows Golf Club to address drainage issues. • Art. 29. Supplementary appropriation of $1,948,000 for previously authorized capital improvement projects, including the completion of work begun in the Town Office building and the Police Station, repairs to various school buildings, and the furnishing of two new elemen- tary schools to replace the Fiske and Harrington Elementary Schools. However, the Committee unanimous- ly opposed an amendment proposing that any debt issued to fund the appropriation not be issued as exempt debt. Town Meeting did not adopt the amendment. • Art. 30. School Capital Projects and Equipment, to remodel, reconstruct and make extraordinary repairs to, and to purchase equipment for, school buildings ($1,100,000), and for architectural and design services for the renovation of the School Administration Building at 1557 Massachusetts Avenue ($240,000). • Art 31. School Technology Program ($270,000) for the purchase and upgrading of computer hardware, software and support. • Art. 32. Capital expenditures for projects and equipment totaling $2,680,000, including town buildings, street continued on next page Levine, Deborah Brown, Rod Cole, John Bartenstein, David 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 83 0 0 bupgel S pined Appropriation Committee continued from previous page improvements, traffic and sidewalk improvements, new public works equipment, new ambulance, the design of a new DPW Operations facility, and a needs - analysis study for updated and integrated Police, Fire, Dispatch, Public Works, and other Town communications systems. • Art. 35. Supplementary appropriation of $150,000 to the Reserve Fund of the FY05 budget. • Art. 36. Appropriation of $603,647 to stabilization fund. • Art. 37. Operating Budget for school and town opera- tions, including the Town's assessment for the Minuteman Regional High School 2005 -2006 school year. The Committee unanimously opposed an amendment propos- ing to increase the budget by $10,000 for the planting and care of trees, and an amendment proposing to decrease the Education portion of the budget by $10,000 pending implementation of energy conservation measures. Town meeting did not adopt either amendment. Opposed the following: • Art. 7. Adoption of Community Preservation Act, approving a surcharge on real property of 3% of the annu- al real estate tax levy to be first imposed, if approved by Town voters at the next general Town election, in fiscal year 2007. Town Meeting approved the article. • Art. 17. By a vote of 8 -1, the appropriation of $15,000 for the planting and maintenance of trees on Town -owned land. Town Meeting did not approve the article. 2005 Special Town Meeting Supported the following: • Art. 4. Appropriation of $528,178 to pay unpaid bills for goods and services rendered to the School Department in FY05. • Art. 5, Part A. Supplementary appropriation of $847,396 for the Lexington Public Schools FY06 budget, in addition to the amount previously appropriated at the 2005 annu- al Town Meeting but unanimously opposed an amend- ment proposing to increase the supplementary appropria- tion by $75,000 to fund a Drug Free Community Support Program. Town Meeting did not adopt the amendment. • Art. 5, Part B. Appropriation and transfer of $425,000 from the Overlay Surplus to reduce the tax levy for FY06. This appropriation was a housekeeping measure, designed to conform to and implement the intent of the 2005 Annual Town Meeting. It does not increase the size of the FY06 operating budget. Planning and Budgeting for Future Years In conjunction with the Selectmen, School Committee, Capital Expenditures Committee, and municipal and school staff, the Appropriation Committee evaluates and supports the Town's long -range financial planning processes. Its efforts include assessing the Town's current financial condi- tion and projecting free cash, expenses and revenues for future years. Currently, these projections encompass FY07 and FY08. The Committee believes that this work, and the information these projections provide to the Town, are informative and crucial if the Town is to achieve and main- tain a proper, workable balance among operating expenses, capital projects, and affordable tax rates. Although the Town continues to face considerable fiscal challenges and problems, there are positive developments. In April, Moody's Investors Service removed the negative outlook it had placed on the Town's bond rating. Consequently, Lexington's Aaa bond rating, the highest Moody's accords, is unblemished. Additionally, the appointments of Paul Ash as Superintendent of Schools by the School Committee and of Carl Valente as Town Manager by the Board of Selectmen will impart continuity and consistency to the ever on -going budget development and assessment process. The Committee will continue to work with the Town's elected and appointed boards, and with staff, to address and respond to the myriad challenges, problems and concerns involved in that process. As noted in past years, the importance of minimizing increases to annu- ally recurring expenditure items when there is little evidence of new or increased recurring revenues to pay for them can- not be emphasized too strongly. Staff Recognition The Committee is especially appreciative of the extensive and dedicated efforts of the Town's municipal and school staff. Despite, indeed because of, the severe constraints placed upon them by these difficult economic times, they nonetheless unfailingly perform far beyond the call of duty. They fulfill their assigned duties, they interact with and respond to town citizens, and they assist and support, in effort and time far in excess of "regular working hours," the Town's elected and appointed bodies. The Appropriation Committee is deeply indebted and grateful to these employees for their invaluable counsel, service and assistance. Page 84 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Capital Expenditures Committee ROLE: To receive from town boards and departments a list of all capital expenditures that may be required within the ensu- ing 5 -year period, and to prompt them to undertake appro- priate planning for required future capital expenditures; to consider the relative need, timing, and cost of these projects, the adequacy thereof, and the effect these expenditures might have on the financial position of the Town; and to make rec- ommendations thereon to the Town Meeting. APPOINTED by the Moderator to overlapping 3 -year terms: Chair Charles Lamb, Vice Chair Ted Edson, Roger Borghesani, William Hurley, and Shirley Stolz. In July, William Hurley succeeded John Rosenberg, who had com- pleted one term on the Committee. In November, Roger Borghesani succeeded George Burnell who resigned upon announcing his candidacy for the Board of Selectmen. HIGHLIGHTS • Major School Construction: The new Harrington school was completed and is now occupied. Fiske students were moved to the old Harrington school building and construc- tion of the new Fiske school was started with planned occu- pancy in early 2007. Both schools are being constructed under a debt - exclusion override of $32,150,000 approved by the voters in 2002 and a supplemental appropriation of $1,575,000 approved by the 2005 Annual Town meeting (approximately 40% to be reimbursed by the State) . • Streets: Major neighborhood street reconstruction contin- ues with funds from the $7,000,000 debt - exclusion over- ride approved in 2002; during the 2005 summer -fall con- struction season, the third quadrant of roads scheduled for work was repaved. This program, which is in addition continued on next page L -R: Charles Lamb, Shirley Stolz, Roger Borghesani, Ted Edson, Bill Hurley. Capital Appropriations for the 2005 Town Meeting Article 26 Article 28 Article 29 Article 30 Article 31 Article 32a Article 32b Article 32c Article 32d Article 32e Article 32f Article 32g Article 32h Title Playgrounds and Recreation Facilities Improvement Rindge Park Playground Center Tennis Court Backboard Pine Meadows Improvement Supplementary FY05 Appropriation LPD Generator /Town Office Bldg HVAC Fiske School Rebuild School Capital Projects School Technology Town Building Envelope Street Related Improvements Traffic Improvements Sidewalk Improvements DPW Equipment DPW Operations Facility Fire /Rescue Equipment Public Safety Communications Amount $35,000 $30,000 $50,000 $165,000 $1,575,000 $1,340,000 $270,000 $150,000 $460,000 $500,000 $100,000 $50,000 $485,000 $720,000 $165,000 $50,000 Funding Source Tax Levy (Bond) Recreation Enterprise Recreation Enterprise Tax Levy (Bond) Tax Levy (Exempt) Tax Levy (Bond & Cash) Tax Levy (Bond & Cash) Tax Levy (Bond & Cash) Chapter 90 Tax Levy (Cash) Tax Levy (Bond) Tax Levy (Bond) Tax Levy (Bond) Tax Levy (Bond) Tax Levy (Cash) Tax Levy (Cash) 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 85 bilagEl s pinEa :ologd Capital Expenditures Committee continued from previous page to the annual street resurfacing funded with Chapter 90 and tax levy revenues, remains on track for its planned 4- year construction schedule, with obvious improvements in road quality, performance, and appearance. • School Administration Building ( "White House ") and DPW Facility Reconstruction: Annual Town Meeting approved $300,000 and $720,000 for Design and Engineering studies in anticipation eventual reconstruction of the School Administration Building and DPW Facility (respectively). Funding for reconstruction is anticipated to be requested in spring 2006 through a voter debt exclusion. • Capital Stewardship and Planning for the Future: The Town has an extensive infrastructure requiring constant attention, repair, upgrading, or replacement. Failure to attend to these assets results in unsafe conditions, undue repair costs, reduced productivity by employees who must operate from substandard facilities or offices, impaired quality of service (as in school or recreational facilities), and other costs, which tend to increase when maintenance and necessary investments and updating are deferred. High -pri- ority concerns include the Department of Public Works equipment storage and maintenance facility and associated offices at 201 Bedford Street; and the "White House," next to the police station, now used as School Administration offices. Longer term, four additional elementary schools require upgrading as well as possible additional space. The water and sewer department must continually renew Lexington's underground infrastructure. Roofs, electrical, and HVAC equipment must be periodically replaced in all school and /or municipal buildings. Playgrounds need safe equipment, the pool complex requires periodic restoration, athletic fields need constant attention, tennis courts need resurfacing, and the golf course must be professionally maintained. Vehicles from fire trucks and ambulances to snow plows and dump trucks need to be replaced. The Committee also considers the future use and condition of such important Lexington assets as East Lexington Library, Munroe School (now in use as the arts center), the future reuse of the old Harrington School, and the desire of the Council on Aging for facilities suitable for its future needs. The Town must stay the course, responsibly funding the support and maintenance of Lexington's infrastructure. Revenue Officer ROLE: To per- form the duties of Treasurer and Collector as out- lined in Mass- achusetts General Laws (M.G.L.), Chapter 41. As Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $171,648 $ 40,738 $193,576 $ 48,599 Personnel Full Time 4 4 Part Time 1 1 Treasurer, responsible for the receipt and disbursement of all town funds as well as the management of investment policies, debt, and, in conjunction with the Town Manager, employee benefits. As Collector, issues and collects all Real Estate, Motor Vehicle, Personal Property, and Water /Sewer bills, as assessed. APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Rosemary Ducharme, 2003. HIGHLIGHTS: • Real Estate taxes totaled $87,852,415, including collec- tion of prior year taxes. Outstanding accounts were either put in payment plans or subjected to tax title and the asso- ciated foreclosure process. • Personal Property tax collection totaled $2,566,468. • Motor Vehicle Excise bills totaled $4,179,205. These bills were based upon information provided by the Registry of Motor Vehicles. Overdue accounts were committed to the Deputy Collector, who, under M.G.L, marked these accounts for license and registration non - renewal. • Water /Sewer collections totaled $10,702,975. • Investment income for all town accounts was $677,532.14, of which $449,669 was credited to the General Fund. All investments are made according to Massachusetts General Laws. When investing the Town's money, safety, liquidity, and yield, in that order, are the considerations. • Issued $11,802,685 in BANS (Bond Anticipation Notes) for the following purposes: School $7,152,685 School $500,000 School $2,800,000 School $950,000 School $150,000 Computer $250,000 • Issued $2,620,000 in BANS (Bond Anticipation Notes) for the following purposes: School Remodeling School Water Public Works Equipment Fire Department Equipment Building Computer Hardware Computer Software Sidewalk Street Outdoor Recreational Facilities $635,000 $55,000 $450,000 $370,000 $345,000 $340,000 $216,000 $33,600 $100,000 $40,000 $35,000 • Issued $1,440,000 in BANS (Bond Anticipation Notes) for the Library. Page 86 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Board of Assessors ROLE: to assess the valuation of Lexington's real and personal property. Efforts are focused on the maintenance Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $198,601 $ 38,307 $ 187,631 $ 69,819 Personnel Full Time 3.5 4.5 of an extensive database for valuation purposes according to Massachusetts General Laws. APPOINTED by the Town Manager: Chair William Jackson, Steven Foster and Edmund Grant. Town Assessor Joseph Nugent. HIGHLIGHTS • The Assessing Department was fully staffed during FY06 resulting in a return to an actual third quarter billing cycle. • Residential values remained strong during calendar 2004 (year of analysis). However, commercial and industrial values continued to decrease for the third consecutive year. • Total growth was up over FY05. Residential was stronger in FY06, while commercial and industrial dropped. Personal property also increased. Assessments for Fiscal 2006 Property Class No. of Parcels Assessed Value Single - Family 8,910 $6,206,172,000 Condominiums 819 $333,800,000 Two - Family 184 $105,394,000 Three - Family 14 $8,995,000 Multi -Unit 12 $75,013,000 Land 577 $40,040,500 Misc. Residential 40 $42,094,000 Commercial 419 $609,654,000 Industrial 39 $116,982,000 Agricultural (61A) 5 $85,000 Recreation (61B) 7 $4,562,000 Mixed Use Residential/ 22 $18,700,500 Commercial Personal Property /Utilities 916 $124,776,530 Total 11,964 $7,686,268,530 TAX LEVY AND TAX RATES: FISCAL YEAR 2006 Class Levy % Valuation Tax Rate Tax Levy $ Residential 80.0146% $6,823,275,250.00 $11.11 $75,806,588.03 $0.00 Open Space 0.0000% $0.00 Commercial 14.3867% $621,234,750.00 Industrial 2.7090% $116,9 82,000.00 Personal 2.8897% $124,776,530.00 $21.94 $21.94 $21.94 $13,629,890.42 $2,566,585.08 Total 100.0000% $7,686,268,530.00 $2,737,597.07 $94,740,660.60 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 87 Fiscal Year 2005 Recapitulation Amount to be Raised Appropriations $129,434,268.00 Other amounts to be raised Amounts certified for tax title purposes $0.00 Debt and interest charges 265,200.00 Final court judgments 0.00 Total overlay deficits of prior years 0.00 Total cherry sheet offsets 1,363,589.00 Revenue deficits 0.00 Offset receipts deficits Ch. 44, Sec. 53E 0.00 Authorized deferral of teachers' pay 0.00 Snow and ice deficit Ch. 44 Sec. 31D 646,688.00 Other (specify on separate letter) 0.00 Total $2,275,477.00 State and county cherry sheet charges $633,266.00 Allowance for abatements and exemptions $504,779.60 Total amount to be raised $132,847,790.60 Estimated Receipts and Other Revenue Sources Estimated receipts - State Cherry sheet estimated receipts $8,415,828.00 Massachusetts School Building Authority Payments 187,696.00 Total $ 8,603,524.00 Estimated receipts - Local Local receipts not allocated $9,746,050.00 Offset receipts 0.00 Enterprise funds 17,156,934.00 Community preservation funds 0.00 Total $26,902,984.00 Revenue sources appropriated for particular purposes Free cash $1,112,465.00 Other available funds 1,063,157.00 Total $2,175,622.00 Other revenue sources appropriated specifically to reduce the tax rate Free cash...appropriated on or before June 30, 2005 $0.00 Free cash...appropriated on or after July 1, 2005 0.00 Municipal light source 0.00 Teachers' pay deferral 0.00 Other source : Overlay surplus 425,000.00 Total $425,000.00 Total estimated receipts and other revenue sources $38,107,130.00 Summary of Total Amount to be Raised and Total Receipts from all Sources Total amount to be raised $132,847,790.60 Total estimated receipts and other $38,107,130.00 revenue sources Total real and personal property tax levy $94,740,660.60 Total receipts from all sources $132,847,790.60 Page 88 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Tax Deferral and Exemption Study Committee ROLE: To study, understand, and evaluate options for help- ing lower income citizens, particularly seniors, with their property taxes. To research existing state legislation that enables local tax exemptions and deferrals, estimate the probable cost to the town budget, and advise the Selectmen on the costs and benefits, pros and cons of each option. In addition, to track new legislation currently under develop- ment by the State and to encourage legislation beneficial to town interests. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Chair Vicki Blier, Marilyn Campbell, Patricia Costello, William Kennedy, and Thomas Taylor. Board Liaison Norman Cohen. HIGHLIGHTS • Advised the Selectmen regarding a motion before Town Meeting to add an annually increasing Cost of Living Adjustment to the $750 Senior Tax Exemption and to seek a Home Rule Petition to lower the State - mandated inter- est rate charged on Senior Tax Deferrals. The motion passed unanimously. This year 48 seniors received $750 tax exemptions. • Seniors with incomes under $40K may defer paying any part of their property tax until they choose to sell their house or the house is otherwise conveyed. The total amount deferred can be up to half the value of the house. The homeowner can never be forced to sell the house due to the deferred property tax amounts. The state - mandated interest rate on the deferred property tax is 8%. The Town's Home Rule Petition seeking the power to lower the interest rate was rendered moot by an amendment to the State law giving Town Meeting the authority to set any interest rate below 8%. This year 16 seniors deferred a total of almost $75,000 in property tax. Debt Service Summary (Note: Figures are rounded to the closest dollar.) FY06 FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 -23 TOTAL Library $ 738,387 $ 724,262 $ 710,137 $ 694,042 $ 677,902 $ 5,673,842 $ 9,218,572 Augusta Land Acquisition 16,617 15,975 15,327 0 0 0 47,919 General Government 199,280 142,804 0 0 0 0 342,084 Public Works 793,111 607,608 383,000 203,388 52,575 0 2,039,682 Schools 1,463,355 1,080,148 600,420 547,625 330,600 649,125 4,671,273 Exempt (school & town) 4,683,313 4,366,213 3,839,138 3,558,913 3,159,800 30,680,841 50,288,218 Sub Total $ 7,894,063 $6,937,010 $ 5,548,022 $5,003,968 $ 4,220,877 $37,003,808 $66,607,748 Enterprise Fund Debt: Water $ 228,546 $ 224,296 $ 215,046 $ 210,096 $ 205,146 $ 548,759 $ 1,631,889 Sewer 275,951 267,168 207,283 119,988 89,378 0 959,768 Sub Total $ 504,497 $ 491,464 $ 422,329 $ 330,084 $ 294,524 $ 548,759 $ 2,591,657 Totals $ 8,398,560 $7,428,474 $ 5,970,351 $5,334,052 $ 4,515,401 $37,552,567 $69,199,405 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 89 Comptroller ROLE: To over- see all financial operations of the Town, which includes the assessing of prop- erty, collecting all accounts receivable, payment of all accounts payable, investment of town funds, maintaining accounting records, preparation of financial statements, annual audit, adminis- tration of the retirement system, and support to the Appropriation Committee. Expenditures Payroll Expenses FY05 FY04 $276,28 $115,717 $327,896 $110,879 Personnel Full Time 6 6 APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Town Accountant Laurie Dell'Olio served as Acting Comptroller in 2005. HIGHLIGHTS • Issued approximately $15,800,000 in bond anticipation notes for various capital projects. • In April, Moody's Investors Service restored the Town's Aaa rating by lifting the "Negative Outlook" warning. The Town's commitment to building reserves, striving towards a structurally balanced budget, and stable man- agement contributed to the rating. Comptroller Schedule of Appropriations -June 30, 2005 NOTE: The figures below are rounded to the closest dollar. Account Revised Budget Expended Encumbrances Total Expended Balance Selectmen Personal Services $ 61,983 $ 55,515 $ 0 $ 55,515 $ 6,468 Expenses 77,933 78,131 0 78,131 (198) Town Manager Personal Services 326,104 326,104 0 326,104 0 Expenses 14,680 8,981 351 9,331 5,349 Municipal Services Personal Services 33,976 32,584 0 32,584 1,392 Expenses 103,599 87,775 0 87,775 15,824 Salary Adjustments Salary Adjustments 0 0 0 0 0 Appropriation Committee Expenses 1,000 1,000 0 1,000 0 Reserve Fund Expenses 0 0 0 0 0 Comptroller Personal Services 280,653 276,218 0 276,218 4,435 Expenses 138,896 104,174 11,542 115,717 23,179 Assessor Personal Services 198,601 198,601 0 198,601 0 Expenses 39,721 38,307 0 38,307 1,414 Treasurer /Collector Personal Services 171,648 171,648 0 171,648 0 Expenses 54,741 39,252 1,486 40,738 14,003 Law Legal Fees 392,100 392,202 7,412 399,614 (7,514) Human Resources Personal Services 42,258 42,258 0 42,258 0 Expenses 2,667 2,071 0 2,071 596 Web Development Expenses 16,072 12,845 0 12,845 3,228 Management Information System Personal Services 154,565 152,713 0 152,713 1,852 Expenses 195,402 189,490 500 189,990 5,412 Town Network 5,000 3,277 0 3,277 1,723 NOTE: The above amounts include carry forward activity continued on next page Page 90 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Comptroller Schedule of Appropriations June 30, 2005 continued from previous page Account Revised Budget Expended Encumbrances Total Expended Balance Town Clerk Personal Services $ 135,194 $ 135,194 $ 0 $ 135,194 $ 0 Expenses 7,576 7,056 496 7,551 24 Elections Personal Services 58,232 58,232 0 58,232 0 Expenses 29,238 28,375 770 29,145 93 Registration Personal Services 1,756 1,756 0 1,756 0 Expenses 23,292 11,328 10,752 22,080 1,212 Records Management Expenses 4,125 2,000 2,125 4,125 0 Conservation Commission Personal Services 82,585 82,585 0 82,585 0 Planning Board Personal Services 178,997 167,224 0 167,224 11,773 Expenses 8,450 8,188 0 8,188 262 Regulatory Support Personal Services 32,766 32,766 0 32,766 0 Board of Appeals Personal Services 0 0 0 0 0 Expenses 0 0 0 0 0 Economic Development Personal Services 6,000 4,532 0 4,532 1,468 Expenses 0 0 0 0 0 Liberty Ride Personal Services 0 0 0 0 0 Expenses 0 0 0 0 0 Public Building Maintenance Personal Services 320,129 320,129 0 320,129 0 Expenses 473,963 468,263 5,700 473,963 0 Town Reports Expenses 6,000 5,936 0 5,936 64 Misc Boards & Commissions Expenses 10,755 10,350 0 10,350 405 Police Personal Services 3,414,330 3,408,371 0 3,408,371 5,959 Expenses 392,736 382,191 9,847 392,038 698 Parking Meter Maintenance Personal Services 32,494 32,494 0 32,494 0 Expenses 22,000 20,886 1,044 21,930 70 Fire Personal Services 3,734,413 3,724,570 0 3,724,570 9,843 Expenses 388,813 372,548 16,265 388,812 1 Dispatch Personal Services 408,807 408,807 0 408,807 0 Expenses 24,780 24,723 0 24,723 57 Building & Zoning Officer Personal Services 287,316 287,316 0 287,316 0 Expenses 45,357 37,413 4,718 42,131 3,226 Dog Officzer Personal Services 16,501 10,857 0 10,857 5,644 Expenses 1,591 1,446 0 1,446 145 Forestry Personal Services 177,218 177,218 0 177,218 0 Expenses 28,792 28,792 0 28,792 0 NOTE: The above amounts include carry forward activity continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 91 Comptroller Schedule of Appropriations June 30, 2005 continued from previous page Account Revised Budget Expended Encumbrances Total Expended Balance School Personal Services & $66,414,975 $66,324,108 $ 87,167 $66,411,274 $ 3,701 Expenses Minuteman 928,474 833,267 0 833,267 95,207 Town Engineer Personal Services 245,478 245,478 0 245,478 0 Expenses 8,203 8,203 0 8,203 0 DPW Administration Personal Services 266,748 266,748 0 266,748 0 Expenses 28,153 27,876 278 28,153 0 Snow Removal Personal Services 274,483 575,041 0 575,041 (300,558) Expenses 672,976 1,019,106 0 1,019,106 (346,130) Highway Personal Services 531,182 531,182 0 531,182 0 Expenses 228,931 228,861 70 228,931 0 Road Machinery Personal Services 130,483 130,483 0 130,483 0 Expenses 256,315 254,071 2,244 256,315 0 Street Lighting Personal Services 0 0 0 0 0 Expenses 242,158 241,013 1,145 242,158 0 Lexpress Personal Services 65,230 65,230 0 65,230 0 Expenses 225,689 225,689 0 225,689 0 Chair Car Services Personal Services 0 0 0 0 0 Expenses 0 0 0 0 0 Refuse Collection Expenses 727,408 727,408 0 727,408 0 Recycling Personal Services 63,443 63,443 0 63,443 0 Expenses 754,280 752,081 2,199 754,280 0 Refuse Disposal Expenses 541,133 541,133 0 541,133 0 Cemetery Personal Services 135,952 135,952 0 135,952 0 Expenses 31,552 31,472 80 31,552 0 Parking Lot Maintenance Personal Services 42,266 42,266 0 42,266 0 Expenses 20,947 20,947 0 20,947 0 Board of Health Personal Services 157,309 136,262 0 136,262 21,047 Expenses 20,000 19,355 200 19,555 445 Youth Services Personal Services 44,650 36,888 0 36,888 7,762 Expenses 0 0 0 0 0 Veterans Services Personal Services 33,853 33,853 0 33,853 0 Expenses 18,381 18,031 350 18,381 0 Developmentally Disabled Expenses 14,839 14,839 0 14,839 0 Council on Aging Personal Services 128,961 128,960 0 128,960 1 Expenses 165,940 150,889 13,552 164,441 1,499 Library Personal Services 1,400,313 1,372,783 0 1,372,783 27,530 Expenses 354,159 331,047 23,108 354,155 4 continued on next page Page 92 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Comptroller Schedule of Appropriations June 30, 2005 continued from previous page Account Revised Budget Expended Encumbrances Total Expended Balance Parks Personal Services $ 614,330 $ 614,330 $ 0 $ 614,330 $ 0 Expenses 89,786 88,029 1,756 89,786 0 Historical Commission Personal Services 0 0 0 0 0 Public Celebration Expenses 25,000 24,300 0 24,300 700 Debt Service Principal 7,686,000 7,686,000 0 7,686,000 0 Interest 2,013,095 2,013,093 0 2,013,093 2 Interest Short Term 235,262 173,238 0 173,238 62,024 Interest Short Term(exempt) 923,820 923,820 0 923,820 0 Other State Assessment & Chgs 0 6 79,13 7 0 679 13 679,137 (679,137) Contributory Retirement 3,015,532 3,015,532 0 3,015,532 0 Noncontributory Retirement 85,000 80,544 0 80,544 4,456 Unemployment 58,849 57,170 280 57,450 1,399 Police & Fire Medical 53,965 72,858 0 72,858 (18,893) Insurance 4,691,839 4,671,872 1,639 4,673,511 18,328 Total General Fund $107,333,147 $108,108,575 $ 207,076 $108,315,651 ($982,503) Enterprise Funds Sewer Fund Personal Services $ 232,759 $ 208,440 $ 0 $ 208,440 $ 24,319 Expenses 972,025 979,363 5,807 985,170 (13,145) MWRA 5,531,976 5,062,751 0 5,062,751 469,225 Art 27 of 99 300,000 0 0 0 300,000 Art 9 of 97 0 0 0 0 0 Art 9 of 98 151,683 0 0 0 151,683 Art 10 of 98 824,849 39,470 35,465 74,936 749,914 Art 8F of 02 0 0 0 0 0 Art 8F of 03 150,000 4,111 70,715 74,826 75,174 Art 8H of 03 11,831 3,120 8,711 11,831 0 Art 18E of 04 150,000 0 0 0 150,000 Art 20 of 04 600,000 0 0 0 600,000 Debt Service 649,646 422,713 0 422,713 226,934 Total Sewer Fund $ 9,574,769 $ 6,719,968 $ 120,699 $ 6,840,667 $ 2,734,102 Water Fund Personal Services $ 562,231 $ 527,379 $ 0 $ 527,379 $ 34,852 Expenses 1,311,671 1,275,038 10,356 1,285,394 26,277 MWRA 3,535,122 3,303,339 18,000 3,321,339 213,784 Art 9 of 03 900,000 5,854 193,850 199,705 700,295 Art 9 of 02 850,199 50,559 117,766 168,326 681,873 Art 11 of 01 56,756 0 51,530 51,530 5,226 Art 19 of 04 850,000 0 0 0 850,000 Debt Service 309,984 237,483 0 237,483 72,501 Total Water Fund $ 8,375,963 $ 5,399,653 $ 391,503 $ 5,791,155 $ 2,584,808 Recreation Fund Personal Services $ 517,795 $ 484,084 $ 0 $ 484,084 $ 33,711 Recreation Pine Meadows 582,437 473,188 36,649 509,836 72,601 Expense Expenses 339,702 320,268 14,657 334,925 4,777 Art 8I of 00 7,902 7,902 0 7,902 0 Art 8H of 01 10,956 334 2,450 2,784 8,172 Art 18H of 04 Playground Improv 35,000 32,090 0 32,090 2,910 Art 18I of 04 Tennis Court Improv 130,000 8,118 112,525 120,643 9,357 Art 8E of 02 0 0 0 0 0 Art 16 of 03 18,438 1,071 0 1,071 17,367 Art 12 of 00 10,846 7,526 0 7,526 3,320 Art 8B of 02 657 550 0 550 107 Art 30 of 99 130,817 28,525 7,700 36,225 94,592 Art 8B of 03 1,681 0 0 0 1,681 Total Recreation Fund $ 1,786,231 $ 1,363,655 $ 173,981 $ 1,537,636 $ 248,595 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 93 Combined Balance Sheet -June 30, 2005 NOTE: The above amounts include carry forward activity Page 94 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington General Fund Special Revenue Capital Projects Enterprise Funds Trust & Agency Long -Term Debt Total ASSETS Cash and Investments: Cash $28,276,554 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $28,276,554 Temporary Investments 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total $28,276,554 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 28,276,554 Receivables: Property Taxes $ 2,114,553 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 2,114,553 Motor Vehicle Excise 493,156 0 0 0 0 0$ 493,156 User Charges & Liens 0 0 0 2,924,060 0 0 $ 2,924,060 Special Assessment 597 0 0 0 0 0$ 597 Departmentals 265,394 0 0 0 0 0$ 265,394 Tax Title 507,843 0 0 0 0 0$ 507,843 Due from Other Governments 0 0 0 0 0 0$ 0 Due to /Due from other funds (19,148,898) 4,002,199 3,653,332 7,444,715 4,048,652 0 $ 0 Other 0 0 0 0 1,153,046 0$ 1,153,046 Total ($15,767,355) $4,002,199 $3,653,332 $10,368,775 $ 5,201,698 $ 0 $ 7,458,649 Property and Equipment - Net $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $44,326,978 $ 0 $ 0 $44,326,978 Amount to be Provided For: Repayment of Long Term $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 Obligations Retirement of Bonds 0 0 0 0 0 50,800,000 $50,800,000 Repayment of Anticipation 0 195,000 15,412,685 0 0 0 $15,607,685 Notes Total $ 0 $ 195,000 $15,412,685 $ 0 $ 0 $50,800,000 $ 66,407,685 TOTAL ASSETS $12,509,199 $4,197,199 $19,066,017 $54,695,753 $ 5,201,698 $50,800,000 $146,469,867 LIABILITIES & FUND BALANCES Liabilities: Warrants Payable $ 947,328 $ 468,794 $ 19,270 $ 96,949 $ 457,034 $ 0 $ 1,989,375 Accrued Payroll 765,378 55,336 9,371 45,749 2,291 0 $ 878,124 Reserve for Abatements 1,977,818 0 0 0 0 0$ 1,977,818 Deferred Revenues 1,403,725 0 0 0 0 0$ 1,403,725 Deposits & Other Liabilities 201,834 0 0 0 1,177,875 0 $ 1,379,709 Bond and Grant Anticipation 0 195,000 15,412,685 0 0 0 $ 5,607,685 Notes Bonds Payable 0 0 0 2,737,374 0 50,800,000 $53,537,374 Total Liabilities $ 5,296,082 $ 719,130 $15,441,326 $ 2,880,072 $1,637,199 $50,800,000 $ 76,773,809 Fund Balances: Retained Earnings $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $48,128,029 $ 0 $ 0 $48,128,029 Retained Earnings Appropriated 0 0 0 0 0 0$ 0 Fund Balances: 0 0 0 0 0 0$ 0 Unreserved 7,502,729 1,515,240 2,089,107 3,139,605 0 $14,246,681 Reserved for Expenditures 150,000 0 0 3,001,470 0 0 $ 3,151,470 Reserved for Encumbrances 207,076 1,962,829 1,535,584 686,182 424,895 0 $ 4,816,566 Reserve for Future Year Tax Levy 0 0 0 0 0 0$ 0 Overlay Deficit 0 0 0 0 0 0$ 0 Snow & Ice Deficit (646,688) 0 0 0 0 0 $ (646,688) Reserved for Debt Exempt 0 0 0 0 0 0$ 0 Premium Reserved for Debt Service 0 0 0 0 0 0$ 0 Total Fund Balances $ 7,213,117 $3,478,069 $ 3,624,691 $51,815,681 $ 3,564,500 $ 0 $69,696,058 TOTAL LIABILITIES & FUND BALANCES $12,509,199 $4,197,199 $19,066,017 $54,695,753 $ 5,201,699 $50,800,000 $146,469,867 NOTE: The above amounts include carry forward activity Page 94 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Revenues /Expenditures and Fund Balance -June 30, 2005 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 95 FUND TYPES General Governmental Special Revenue Capital Projects Fiduciary Expendable Trust Combined Totals Memorandum Only 2005 REVENUE: Property Taxes $90,460,961 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 90,460,961 Intergovernmental 6,906,818 5,755,535 26,282,315 10,645 38,955,313 Motor Vehicle & Other Excise Tax 4,563,548 0 0 0 4,563,548 Departmental Fees & Charges 2,080,203 5,251,666 0 12,248 7,344,117 Investment Income 537,480 0 0 135,498 672,978 Special Assessments 29,408 0 0 0 29,408 Payments in Lieu of Tax 993,372 0 0 0 993,372 Penalties & Interest 249,544 0 0 0 249,544 Licenses & Permits 1,565,913 0 0 0 1,565,913 Fines & Forfeits 315,296 0 0 0 315,296 Total Revenues $107,702,543 $11,007,201 $ 26,282,315 $ 158,391 $ 145,150,450 EXPENDITURES: General Government $ 3,557,058 $ 408,036 $ 20,480 $ 3,319 $ 3,988,893 Public Safety 8,917,632 1,203,503 336,648 545 10,458,328 Education 67,157,375 7,442,157 8,070,243 0 82,669,775 Public Works 6,133,682 2,788,458 910,043 20,025 9,852,208 Health & Human Services 539,077 0 0 0 539,077 Culture & Recreation 2,430,489 265,200 523,509 5,424 3,224,622 State & County Assessments 679,137 0 0 0 679,137 Debt Service 10,796,151 0 0 0 10,796,151 Pension 3,096,076 0 0 0 3,096,076 Insurance 4,801,899 0 0 0 4,801,899 Total Expenditures $108,108,576 $12,107,354 $ 9,860,923 $ 29,313 $ 130,106,166 Excess (Deficiency) of Rev. over Exp. ($406,033) ($1,100,153) $ 16,421,392 $ 129,078 $ 15,044,284 OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES): Proceeds of BANS /GANS /Refundings $ 0 $ 335,000 $15,272,685 $ 0 $15,607,685 Repayment of BANS /GANS/Refundings 0 (195,000) (38,135,000) 0 (38,330,000) Transfer from Reserve for Abatements 0 0 0 0 0 Transfer from other Funds 2,442,062 500,000 0 807,322 3,749,384 Transfer to other Funds (1,307,322) (293,665) 0 (100,000) (1,700,987) Total Other (Uses) $ 1,134,740 $ 346,335 ($22,862,315) $ 707,322 ($20,673,918) Excess (Deficiency) of Revenues Over Expenditures $ 728,706 ($753,819) ($6,440,923) $ 836,401 ($5,629,634) Fund Balance, Beg. of Year $ 6,484,409 $ 4,231,887 $10,065,614 $ 516,258 $ 21,298,168 Fund Balance, End of Year $ 7,213,115 $ 3,478,068 $ 3,624,691 $1,352,659 $15,668,535 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 95 Revenues /Expenditures /Fund Balance, Special Revenue-June 30, 2005 continued on next page Page 96 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Balance July 1, 2004 Transfers/ Adjustments Revenues Expenditures Encumbrances Balance June 30, 2005 School Lunch $ 111,307 $ 0 $ 1,407,818 $ 1,526,223 $ 0 ($7,098) School Lunch Total $ 111,307 $ 0 $ 1,407,818 $ 1,526,223 $ 0 ($7,098) Highway Art 18G of 04 Sidewalk Improv $ 0 $ 100,000 $ 0 $ 2,459 $ 80,053 $ 17,488 Art 1/02 STM Street Improv 4,423,540 1,496,593 $ 0 1,507,995 1,617,673 2,794,465 Exempt Art 8C of 02 Traffic Improv 27,607 4,478 $ 0 5,751 0 26,334 Art 8D of 02 Street Improv 82,022 22,784 $ 0 102,382 0 2,424 MA 13246155 0 164,351 $ 0 164,351 0 1 Art 8D of 03 Street Improv 342,661 90,602 $ 0 173,359 0 259,904 Art 18D of 04 Street Improv 0 540,000 $ 0 955 2,125 536,920 Art 24 of 04 Street Improv 0 335,000 $ 0 0 0 335,000 Lanconia MA 38053 0 6,838 $ 0 6,838 0 0 MA 38454 3,236 0 $ 0 3,236 0 0 MA 235150 0 1,747 $ 0 1,747 0 0 MA 4246158 0 478,184 $ 0 229 31,835 446,120 Highway Total $4,879,067 $ 3,240,577 $ 0 $ 1,969,302 $1,731,686 $ 4,418,656 Other Special Revenue Hanscom /Massport Litigation $ 15,216 $ 0 $ 25,784 $ 0 $ 0 $ 40,999 CMARC Gifts 2, 815 0 0 0 0 2,815 H.A.T.S. 0 0 12,993 12,703 0 291 Sale of RE - Receipts Reserved 12,855 0 0 0 0 12,855 Verizon 38,459 0 31,449 57,620 2,380 9,908 Lexington Center Benches 34,936 0 2,990 4,445 0 33,481 Massport Intern Grant 0 0 4,170 4,170 0 0 Bikeway 238 0 25 90 0 172 Arch Comm /MWRA - Water 18,625 2,096 144,442 45,604 23,084 96,475 Tower Gift Nextel Communications 86,765 8,418 29,029 17,942 3,704 102,565 Cable TV Account 13,040 33,977 22,037 11,707 26,095 31,252 Peg TV Revolving Acct 238,070 0 188,169 37,625 0 388,615 Flexible Spending 80,745 0 5,442 973 0 85,214 Sch Project Earnings 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sprint Communications 96,694 0 0 37,300 0 59,394 Documenting Lex Heritage 6/04 1 000 0 0 1,000 0 0 N.O.I. Fees 17,354 0 11,878 16,486 0 12,745 Hardy Pond Brook 17,740 0 0 0 0 17,740 Lexington Center Committee 2,013 0 0 0 0 2,013 Gifts Liberty Ride Gifts 1,357 0 24,250 24,720 0 887 Liberty Ride - Revolving 0 0 78,266 78,266 0 0 Tourism Gift Account /DNC 0 0 57,500 57,384 0 116 Off Duty Detail - Police (152,261) 0 1,063,862 1,069,750 0 (158,148) Police Dept Gift Fund (1) 0 3,830 3,681 0 148 Firearms Record Keeping Fund 195 0 7,550 7,550 0 195 Cops in School 7/05 (23,474) 0 83,915 60,441 0 0 Local Preparedness Grant 6/05 0 0 12,820 12,820 0 0 Violence Against Women 9/05 0 0 10,748 12,668 6,832 (8,752) Community Policing 04 0 5,310 0 5,310 0 0 Violence Against Women 9/04 (10,000) 4,997 10,000 4,997 0 0 continued on next page Page 96 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Revenues /Expenditures /Fund Balance, Special Revenue June 30, 2005 continued from previous page continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 97 Balance July 1, 2004 Transfers/ Adjustments Revenues Expenditures Encumbrances Balance June 30, 2005 Click it or Ticket 03 $ 2,871 $ 0 $ 0 $ 2,871 $ 0 $ 0 Cops Homeland Sec OT (12,475) 0 14,707 2,232 0 0 Prog 2/05 Off Duty Detail - Fire 9,744 0 6,353 12,163 0 3,934 Wellness 8c Fitness Grant 4/05 0 0 47,467 576 35,585 11,306 MEMA Grant 6/05 6,545 0 0 3,281 0 3,264 Fire Dept. Gifts 4,612 0 550 486 0 4,676 Fire PS Equipment FY 05 0 0 41,000 711 38,239 2,050 Safe 12/05 0 0 4,739 3,966 0 773 Firefighter Exam 0 0 1,064 0 0 1,064 Cingular Gift Account 0 0 30,900 0 0 30,900 DPW Revolving 23,356 9,000 186,512 161,034 3,895 53,939 Lexpress Fare /Passes 5,767 0 56,747 58,075 0 4,439 MBTA Grant 0 0 80,000 80,000 0 0 Lexpress - Gift 26,650 0 30,322 26,612 0 30,360 Lexington Transit Guide 224 0 0 0 0 224 Urban Forest Plan 8c Edu Grant 2,185 0 52 1,351 0 886 Traffic Mitigation - Gift 0 0 33,333 12,464 829 20,040 Sale of Cemetery Lots 116,636 0 61,740 0 0 178,376 DPW Recycling /Composting 813 0 2,081 550 0 2,344 Bins Off Duty Custodian 2,003 0 3,335 2,521 0 2,817 Recycling Assistance Grants 12,386 0 115 1,925 0 10,577 Parking Receipts 415,902 0 377,216 275,000 0 518,117 Minuteman Hazardous Products 44,838 4,450 107,362 102,006 30,384 24,260 Off Duty Detail - DPW 17,354 0 34,910 46,454 0 5,810 Selectmens Tree Gift Account 4,501 0 400 2,385 0 2,516 Emergency Preparedness 6/04 5,347 393 0 5,739 0 0 Receipt Res - MWPAT Loan 6,035 0 0 2,321 0 3,714 Repaymts Skin Cancer Mini -Grant 05 0 0 1,658 1,658 0 0 Emergency Preparedness 06/05 0 0 3,845 3,845 0 0 Recreational Trails 6/06 0 0 0 2,165 0 (2,165) COA- Social Day Care - 16,210 0 169,809 165,941 0 20,078 Revolving COA Transportation Grant 0 0 7,000 7,000 0 0 C.O.A. Gift Fund 7,976 0 4,314 1,737 0 10,554 DEA Formula Grant 0 0 39,357 17,271 22,086 0 Library Development Officer 577 0 342,764 340,213 0 3,129 State Aid to Libraries 0 0 32,312 32,312 0 0 Recreation Gift Account 37,313 0 272 288 0 37,296 Insurance Reimbursment < 20K 17,366 0 29,913 27,156 0 20,123 Other Special Revenue Total $1,267,118 $ 68,641 $ 3,583,295 $ 2,989,559 $ 193,113 $ 1,736,383 School Special Revenue Off Duty Custodian ($5,447) $ 0 $ 18,962 $ 62,459 $ 0 ($48,944) Driver Ed - Revolving 22,252 1,477 61,270 74,241 2,144 8,613 Lost Books - Revolving 106 1,130 25,390 25,663 830 132 Drama Foundation - Revolving 24,845 0 0 1,408 0 23,437 Athletics - Revolving 0 0 39,782 39,045 736 1 Adult Education - Revolving 310,287 9,555 337,419 335,099 2,335 319,827 Early Childhood - Revoloving 4,003 1,854 39,371 42,767 1,550 912 Competitve Speech - Revolving 0 791 20,760 21,551 0 0 continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 97 Revenues /Expenditures /Fund Balance, Special Revenue June 30, 2005 continued from previous page Page 98 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Balance July 1, 2004 Transfers/ Adjustments Revenues Expenditures Encumbrances Balance June 30, 2005 School Special Revenue (continued) Debate - Revolving $ 0 $ 2,870 $ 30,135 $ 32,505 $ 500 $ 1 METCO Fee Support - Revolving 22,895 0 0 5,250 0 17,645 J Benton Prof Dev Revolving 0 0 3,000 0 0 3,000 Gary Dickinson Teach Excel AWD 0 0 1,000 0 0 1,000 Biology from the Groud Up 8/04 1,275 1,125 0 2,400 0 0 Bowman Library 1,100 0 1,000 200 0 1,900 Elementary Gift 0 500 0 500 School Gift 77,867 0 11,378 72,456 460 16,328 Bridge School Gift 3,540 0 1,210 1,020 0 3,730 Diamond School gift 2,101 2,229 4,500 4,499 3,946 384 Fiske Sch. Gift Account 6,044 50 500 581 0 6,013 C.A.S.IT Italian Lang Gift 0 0 20,000 20,000 0 0 Athletic Gift Account 0 3,400 10,790 12,335 0 1,855 Hastings Gift Account 7,747 500 2,500 6,208 7 4,531 Vivian Burns Fiske Memorial 4,696 0 0 0 0 4,696 Fund Estabrook Gift 7,019 1,004 3,107 4,424 529 6,178 CHNA Mini Grant 6/04 2,498 11 0 2,509 0 0 Clarke School Gift Account 115 220 5,100 1,731 3,500 204 Academic Support 6/04 1,600 798 0 2,398 0 0 METCO 8/04 24,848 7,348 0 32,196 0 0 Circuit Breaker -Sch Special Ed (113,719) 0 1,720,217 1,606,498 0 0 SPED Elec Portfolios MCAS 8/04 900 0 0 0 0 900 Essential School Health 6/05 0 0 116,282 116,282 0 0 METCO FY 05 0 0 1,253,350 1,245,687 2,668 4,995 Academic Support 6/05 0 0 3,879 3,083 0 796 Title 1 8/04 61,320 9,259 0 70,579 0 0 Title IIA 8/04 9,128 525 0 9,653 0 0 Title IID 8/04 8,930 4,883 0 13,813 0 0 Title III 8/04 2,343 0 0 2,343 0 0 Title IV 8/04 432 507 0 939 0 0 Title V 8/04 4,050 2,480 0 6,530 0 0 SPED: Idea 8/04 39,520 5,545 0 45,065 0 0 SPED: Early Childhood 8/04 23 72 0 95 0 0 SPED: Prof Development 8/04 22,923 11,696 0 34,619 0 0 Drug Free Community 8/04 (11,166) 7,299 0 16,133 0 (20,000) Drug Free Community 9/05 0 0 95,000 68,592 0 26,408 SPED: Prof Development 8/05 0 0 32,851 23,965 199 8,687 SPED 8/05 0 0 1,250,458 1,166,483 6,240 77,735 Title V 8/05 0 0 11,395 11,388 0 7 Title IV 8/05 0 0 22,212 20,468 0 1,744 Title III 8/05 0 0 43,710 43,710 0 0 Title IID 8/05 0 0 11,886 6,387 411 5,088 Title II A Educator Qual 8/05 0 0 109,313 107,694 0 1,619 Title I 8/05 0 0 278,397 254,045 11,975 12,377 Early Childhook Spec Ed 8/05 0 0 41,691 45,263 0 (3,572) SPED Early Childhood 8/03 0 0 0 0 0 0 School Special Revenue Total $ 544,075 $ 77,128 $ 5,627,815 $ 5,722,260 $ 38,031 $ 488,727 Lexington Education Foundation $ 0 $ 0 $ 193,674 $ 193,674 $ 0 $ 0 L.E.F. Total $ 0 $ 0 $ 193,674 $ 193,674 $ 0 $ 0 Special Revenue Fund Total $6,801,567 $ 3,386,346 $10,812,602 $12,401,018 $1,962,829 $ 6,636,668 Page 98 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Retirement Board ROLE: To oversee, guide, monitor, and enforce the Massachusetts Pension Laws governing the Town's retire- ment system; to invest the system's assets prudently for the purpose of providing the benefits guaranteed to the public employees qualifying under the plan. ELECTED: Chair Robert W. Cunha and Joseph Foley by the members of the retirement system to 3 -year terms end- ing 2008. APPOINTED: Michael McNabb by the Board of Selectmen to a 3 -year term ending 2008. Alan Fields by the Retirement Board for a term ending 2009. The ex officio position, to be named by the Board of Selectmen, remains vacant. John Ryan decided to leave the Board after serving as a member for 18 years. The Board valued his leadership and dedication and wishes him a happy and healthy retirement. HIGHLIGHTS The system consists of a combination of 389 Retirees plus 5 Non - Contributory Retirees and 589 Active and 187 inac- tive members. • This year the system had 16 town employees retire; the withdrawal of 34 members and the transfer of 26 mem- bers to another system; the transfer in of 23 members; 100 new members, and 13 members deceased. Currently there are 37 disability retirements; four new disability retire- ments were granted this year. • Under Chapter 17, the Retirement Board can grant a cost of living adjustment (COLA) up to 3% on the first $12,000 in a year when the Consumer Price Index is less than 3%. The Board granted a 3% cost of living increase this year. • The Board continued the process of broadening the sys- tem's asset allocation to include several new asset strate- gies and new managers. The Board voted to fund three new international investments with the following firms: Acadian Non -U.S. All Cap International Equity fund, the Julius Baer International Equity 11 fund, and the Wellington Pacific Basin fund. Additionally the Board engaged Wellington Emerging Companies for a microcap strategy. Finally, the Board voted to hire The Hartford and Earnest Partners. The Hartford is slated to invest an all cap equity strategy for the system, while Earnest will man- age a dedicated midcap strategy These new managers were selected to work with Wellington Trust Company, which manages the Intermediate Bond Portfolio, TIPS Portfolio, and the Opportunistic Equity Portfolio. Fidelity Institutional Retirement Services Company manages the Contrafund, Golden Tree Asset Management manages the complemen- tary high -yield bond portfolio, and PIMCO manages the tactical allocation strategy. State Street Bank and Trust Company handles the Board's Institutional Custodian Banking. • As fiduciaries, the Board carefully established an asset - allocation policy using a mixture of stocks, bonds, inter- national funds, and cash equivalents. With the assistance of the Board's investment consultant, Meketa Investment Group, the asset - allocation policy is reviewed annually and adjustments are made as necessary. The success of the investment program will continue to be determined by the extent of portfolio diversification among and within asset classes as well as skill in hiring, and diligence in monitor- ing, strong investment managers. The Board is committed to long -term investment strategies, asset allocations, and diversification of investments • The Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission completed an examination of the retirement system which covered the period from January 1, 2001, to December 31, 2004. The audit found the financial records and management functions are being performed in con- formity with the standards established by the commission with the exception of two findings which the Board has addressed. Contributory Retirement System 12/31/05 12/31/05 12/31/04 Cash & Equivalents Fixed Income Securities Well. Intermediated Bonds MW Post High Yield GoldenTree High Yield Wellington TIPS Total Fixed Income Equities Fidelity Contrafund Fidelity Eq. Income Fund Wellington International Wellington Pacific Basin Wellington Opportunistic Wellington Emerging Co. Acadian Int'l All Cap Fund Julius Baer Int'l Eq. Fund II David L. Babson & Co. PIMCO All Asset Fund Earnest Partners Hartford Cap. App. Total Equities Total Assets $ 215,436 $ 209,304 $ 4,168,431 0 4,109,899 4,312,467 $ 12,590,797 $ 21,569,989 0 0 4,814,060 12,164,349 5,157,277 7,986,137 7,776,160 0 11,400,714 6,258,966 6,296,673 $ 83,424,325 $ 96,230,558 $ 4,081,228 5,619,812 2,899,606 4,220,672 $ 16,821,318 $ 19,471,544 13,718,036 13,565,077 4,080,751 8,513,539 0 0 0 4,924,536 8,549,029 0 0 $ 72,822,512 $ 89,853,134 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 99 LEGAL & TRUSTS Trustees of Public Trusts ROLE: To administer, invest, and disburse funds of 106 trusts, 2 cemetery funds, and moneys bequeathed or donat- ed to the Town for specific public purposes. The Trustees purpose is to encourage and facilitate local giving by Lexington citizens. APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: Chairman Alan Fields, Thomas Taylor, and David Williams. HIGHLIGHTS The total market value of the 106 trusts and two Cemetery Funds as of 6/30/05 was $7,630,383.30. • Trustees distributed a total of $367,408 to the following specific areas of need: All Purpose $ 28,104 Beautification $102,688 Human Services $27,538 Recognition $ 5,927 Scholarship ®... A ... A $ 70,011 Perpetual Care $133,140 • Established six additional trusts in 2005: — Pauline Briggs Memorial Scholarship Fund — James Cataldo Scholarship Fund — George Jansen Scholarship Fund — Gladys & Arthur Katz Scholarship Fund — Lexington High School Class of 1996 Scholarship Fund — Robert & Mary McNamara Family Scholarship Fund in memory of Edward Joseph McNamara, Jr. These trusts represent the love the donors and individuals being honored have for Lexington and its citizens and their wish to contribute to the Town's betterment. Knowing that a trust is in perpetuity, that gifts will be used locally, and are tax - deductible, is most satisfying to donors. Community foundations make giving very attractive. Any person or organization may create a named trust with a minimum gift of $5000. Additions may also be made to any existing trust at any time. The Trustees can accept a wide variety of assets and can accommodate a donor's financial and estate planning objectives. Establishing a fund in the Trust is a simple, quick, and economical procedure. The Trustees take care of all the necessary paperwork at no cost. A brief description of each trust and a financial statement follow. "Principal Balance" refers to the original gift and additions plus realized capital gains. "Income Balance" refers to unspent interest and dividends. Disbursements are the money disbursed in fiscal 2005. 2004 -2005 ALL - PURPOSE FUNDS Fund for Lexington Established 1995, the income to be used in three areas: assisting those in need, beautification, and providing seed money for innovative ideas and projects. Donations can be earmarked for any of the three areas. Disbursements $ 26,759 Principal balance $ 14,684 Income balance $ 12,146 Genesis Community Fund Established 1998, three -quar- ters of the income will be used for scholarships and human services. Disbursements $ 2,229 Principal balance $ 41,974 Income balance $ 298 continued on next page Fund for Lexington ROLE: To foster a sense of community by encouraging all citizens to contribute for three purposes: to assist Lexington residents in need, to support beautification projects, and to seed innovative projects for community betterment. APPOINTED by the Selectmen: Chair Norman Cohen, Richard Pagett, Rev. Arnold Colletti, Daniel Lucas, David Walsh, and Alan Fields. HIGHLIGHTS • More than 438 residents contributed over $28,468 in 2005 to the Fund • Aided residents with utility bills that exceeded their resources and replenished the Human Services Fund to enable the Town's Human Services Department to assist residents in need. • Joined with the Rotary Club to distribute winter cloth- ing gift certificates to over 50 children in Town. • Provided money for landscaping around the High School, for flower barrels in Lexington Center and East Lexington, and for holiday decorating in East Lexington. • Granted seed money to the local Global Warming Action Coalition. Page 100 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Trustees of Public Trusts continued from previous page George L. Gilmore Fund Established 1950, the income to be used as the Town may from time to time vote; and if at any time special use arises to which in the opinion of the Selectmen the principal of said fund may be applied, then it may be applied upon the vote of the Town Meeting. Disbursements $ 1,345 Principal balance $ 83,744 Income balance $ 6,802 BEAUTIFICATION FUNDS B 0 L T (Backers of Lexington Track) Established 2000, the principal is to be expended to resurface, reconstruct, repair, and maintain the indoor track and related projects at the Lexington High School field house. Disbursement $ 48,552 Principal balance $ 5,633 Income balance $ 247 Geneva M. Brown Fund Established 1947, the income is to be used for improving and beautifying the common and triangular parcel of land in front of the Masonic Temple. Principal balance $ 16,466 Income balance $ 526 Chiesa Farm Conservation Land Trust Fund Established 2000, after notification three - quarters of the net annual income may be spent for plantings, signage, maintenance projects, and land acquisition of abutting land, to help pre- serve the character of the Chiesa farm conservation area. Principal balance $ 49,672 Income balance $ 1,600 Dunback Meadow Conservation Fund Established 2000, three - quarters of the net income may be used to help pre- serve the character of the Dunback Meadow conservation area. Principal balance $ 6,529 Income balance $ 432 Jack Eddison Blossom Fund Established 1993, three - quarters of the annual net income to be used to help pre- serve the character and green spaces of Lexington and its Bikeway, through maintenance, new projects, and the plant- ing of flowers and trees. Disbursements $ 1,928 Principal balance $ 61,021 Income balance $ 7,494 Frederick L. Emery Fund Established 1936, the income is to be used by the Lexington Field and Garden Club for the work of grading, grassing, and keeping in order grass bor- ders lying between sidewalks or footpaths and the drive- ways on public streets; and in otherwise beautifying the public streets, ways, and places in said Town, preference be given to said objects in order stated. Disbursement $ 339 Principal balance $ 8,426 Income balance $ 31 Orin W. Fiske - Battle Green Fund Established 1899, the income is to be used for the maintenance of the Lexington Battle Green or the monuments erected thereon Principal balance $ 1,441 Income balance $ 10 Charles E. French Colonial Cemetery Fund Established 1905, the annual income to be devoted to the care of the older part of the cemetery in which repose the remains of Rev. John Hancock and wife. Principal balance $ 16,925 Income balance $ 1,377 Gordon /Souza Juniper Hill Fund Established 1993, three - quarters of the annual net income shall be used to help pre- serve the character of Juniper Hill Conservation Land; such income may be spent for plantings, signs, maintenance pro- jects, and land acquisition. Principal balance $ 30,638 Income balance $ 1,815 Hayden Woods Conservation Fund Established 1998, three - quarters of the annual net income shall be used to help preserve the character of the Hayden Woods conserva- tion land; such income may be used for plantings, signs, maintenance projects and land acquisitions. Disbursement $ 1,165 Principal balance $ 32,188 Income balance $ 1,165 Hayes Fountain Fund Established 1895, the income is to be used for the perpetual care of the fountain and grounds immediately around it. Principal balance $ 4,302 Income balance $ 31 Richard and Jeanne Kirk Fund Established 2000, up to three - quarters of the net income earned each year may be used for the maintenance, support, and improvement of the Theresa and Roberta Lee Fitness /Nature Path. Disbursements $ 50,661 Principal balance $ 1,470,566 Income balance $ 36,830 continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 101 Trustees of Public Trusts continued from previous page Tereasa and Roberta Lee Fitness Nature Path Established 1990, the income, and, if necessary, the principal, are to be used by the Town of Lexington Recreation Committee through the Lincoln Park Committee for the work of grad- ing, planting, beautifying, and maintaining the Teresa and Roberta Lee Fitness Nature Path. Principal balance $ 77,875 Income balance $ 2,453 Lexington Community Playground Fund Established 1991, the income and, if necessary, the principal are to be used by the Lexington Recreation Committee for the work of repairing and maintaining the Lexington Community Playground. Principal balance $ 9,996 Income balance $ 828 Lexington Nature Trust Fund Established 1992, the income and, if necessary, the principal, are to be used by the Town of Lexington Conservation Commission for the acquisition, promotion, and management of its properties. Principal balance $ 33,963 Income balance $ 1,824 David G. Miller Conservation Trust Established 2004, up to three - quarters of the net income earned shall be used, when requested by the Conservation Commission, for the promotion, beautification, and management of the conser- vation land in Lexington. Principal balance $ 9,714 Income balance $ 199 Everet M. Mulliken Fund Established 1948, the income is to be used under the supervision of the proper town author- ities, for the care of Hastings Park. Principal balance $ 35,343 Income balance $ 1,810 Edith C. Redman Trust--Established 1928, the income only is to be used and applied for the care and maintenance of the Lexington Common; known as the "Battle Green." Principal balance $ 2,559 Income balance $ 18 George 0. Smith Fund Established 1903, the income is to be expended by the Field and Garden Club in setting out and keeping in order shade and ornamental trees and shrubs on the streets and highways in Lexington, or the beautifying of unsightly places in the highways. Principal balance $ 3,608 Income balance $ 26 George W. Taylor Flag Fund Established 1931, the income is to be used for the care, preservation, and replace- ment of the flagpole on the Battle Green, or for the purchase of new flags; any balance of income is to be used for the care of Lexington Common. Disbursement $ 44 Principal balance $ 6,446 Income balance $ 418 George W. Taylor Tree Fund Established 1931, the income is to be used for the care, purchase, and preserva- tion of trees for the adornment of the Town. Principal balance $ 13,162 Income balance $ 1,150 Albert Ball Tenney Memorial Fund Established 1950, the income is to be used to provide nightly illumination of the Lexington Minute Man statue. Principal balance $ 19,541 Income balance $ 1,733 William Tower Memorial Park Fund Established 1913, the income is to be applied by the Town, in each and every year for the care, maintenance, and improvements of Tower Park. Principal balance $ 102,712 Income balance $ 4,931 Willards Woods Conservation Fund Established 2000, three - quarters of the income may be used for plantings, sig- nage, maintenance projects, and land acquisition costs for the Willards Woods conservation area. Principal balance $ 7,153 Income balance $ 542 CELEBRATION FUNDS American Legion Celebrations Fund Established 1982, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be used towards defraying the Town's cost for the Patriots' Day, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day celebrations. Principal balance $ 12,877 Income balance $ 91 Leroy S. Brown Fund Established 1940, the income is to be used towards defraying the expense of an appropriate and dignified celebration of the anniversary of the Battle of Lexington. Principal balance $ 14,620 Income balance $ 104 continued on next page Page 102 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Trustees of Public Trusts continued from previous page HUMAN SERVICES FUNDS Beals Fund Established 1891, the income is to be expend- ed for the benefit of worthy, indigent, American -born men and women over 60 years of age. Principal balance $ 8,032 Income balance $ 541 Bridge Charitable Fund Established 1880, the income is to be annually distributed among the deserving poor of Lexington without distinction of sex or religion Disbursements $ 508 Principal balance $ 44,188 Income balance $ 4,574 Friends of the Lexington Council on Aging, Inc. Established 1992, the income, when requested, shall be used to provide programs and services to benefit older adults in Lexington. Principal may also be used for pro- grams and services as well as for capital improvements to the Senior Center. Disbursement $ 22,023 Principal balance $ 290,865 Income balance $ 7,440 Jonas Gammell Trust Established 1873, the income is to be used by the Board of Public Welfare and by two women appointed annually for the purpose by the Selectmen in pur- chasing such luxuries or delicacies for the town poor, wher- ever located, as are not usually furnished them, and shall tend to promote their health and comfort. Principal balance $ 1,459 Income balance $ 11 Jack and Sally Gardner Fund Established 2000, up to three - quarters of the annual income may be used to support activities endorsed by the Friends of the Council on Aging. Principal balance $ 32,915 Income balance $ 1,238 Elizabeth Bridge Gerry Fund Established 1885, the income is to be distributed to the deserving poor of Lexington without distinction of sex or religion Principal balance $ 5,808 Income balance $ 1,044 Harriet R. Gilmore Fund Established 1892, the income is to be used for the benefit of poor people in Lexington. Principal balance $ 3,323 Income balance $ 24 Lexington Human Services Fund Established 1990, to be funded by transfers from other funds administered by the Trustees as well as private contributions, to provide funds for the Lexington Human Services Committee in its mission to help individuals in need. Disbursement $ 5,008 Principal balance $ 13,790 Income balance $ 1,711 RECOGNITION FUNDS Matt Allen Memorial Fund Established 1944, reestab- lished 2004, to be used by the Athletic Dept. of Lexington High School for annual awards to boys who have shown unusual faithfulness, effort, and sportsmanship in each of five major sports and also for a tablet to be kept in the school as a record of these awards. Disbursement $ 1,008 Principal balance $ 5,351 Income balance $ 146 EllaLou Dimmock Prize for Vocal Excellence Fund Established 1997 by the Lexington Council for the Arts. The award recognizes a LHS student, selected by the LHS music faculty, who demonstrates promising vocal ability and /or promotes vocal musical performance in the community. Disbursements $ 258 Principal balance $ 7,014 Income balance $ 44 Dan H. Fenn, Jr. Minuteman Fund Established 1998, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be used to fund a grant or award to an individual or group pursuing the study of colonial history, primarily Lexington. Disbursements $ 1,515 Principal balance $ 16,548 Income balance $ 91 Charles E. Ferguson Youth Recognition Award Fund Established 1997, to fund monetary awards to the LHS stu- dents receiving the Lexington Youth Award at each Patriots' Day celebration. The recipients are selected by the Youth Commission. The fund was established with moneys left to the town by Charles E. Ferguson, Town Moderator from 1949 -1969. Disbursement $ 258 Principal balance $ 15,861 Income balance $ 368 Paul Foley Leadership Fund Established 1990, this award is made periodically to a member of the administration, fac- ulty, staff, or a volunteer in the Lexington Public School System to recognize and reward his /her outstanding leader- ship in facilitating a team approach to meeting the educa- tional needs of students, individually or as a group. Principal balance $ 5,078 Income balance $ 36 continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 103 Trustees of Public Trusts continued from previous page Alice Hinkle- Prince Estabrook Award Fund Established 2004 to place and maintain a physical memorial honoring Prince Estabrook, the African - American soldier and slave who fought as a Patriot on the Battle Green and to fund periodically the Alice Hinkle- Prince Estabrook Award. Principal balance $ 5,335 Income balance $ 208 Lexington Education Foundation Established 1989, to promote sound, innovative approaches to enhance excel- lence in education by funding projects in Lexington Public Schools in areas of creative program development, innova- tive materials, and instructional resources. Disbursement $ 923 Principal balance $ 25,390 Income balance $ 5,884 Millennium Arts Fund Established 2000, three - quarters of the net income shall be paid from time to time to the Lexington Education Foundation to fund a grant as appro- priate. Principal balance $ 8,132 Income balance $ 140 Jacquelyn R. Smith Memorial Internship Fund Established 1993, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be used to help professionals gain valuable work experi- ence and explore career options within local government. Disbursement $ 1,710 Principal balance $ 122,849 Income balance $ 1,435 Michael Wagner Technology Education Fund Established 1999, three - quarters of the annual net income shall be awarded to a teacher at Lexington High School who has done much to promote the art of technology by students and /or in the classroom, or has aided others in the system to effectively utilize computer technology. Disbursements $ 258 Principal balance $ 9,217 Income balance $ 82 SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS Sangwook Ahn Memorial Scholarship Fund Established 1998, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded to a Lexington High School senior whose life encompasses a joyful display of zest, a respect for all, a striving for excellence, and service towards others. Disbursements $ 500 Principal balance $ 24,115 Income balance $ 228 Charles D. Aker Family Memorial Scholarship Fund Established 1998, three - quarters of the annual net income to be awarded to a Lexington High School senior who must have held a responsible position on a sports team (other than a player) for at least two years. Disbursements $ 171 Principal balance $ 6,705 Income balance $ 49 Bass DiDomenico Scholarship Fund Established 2002, an award is to be made each year to a graduate of LHS who plans to major in music or music education. Disbursements $ 3,000 Principal balance $ 16,854 Income balance $ 1,396 Hallie C. Blake Fund Established 1920, the income is to be used annually in cash prizes to two seniors (a boy and a girl) of Lexington High School, who by example and influ- ence have shown the highest qulaities of leadership, con- duct, and character and who possess, in the largest measure, the good will of the student body. Disbursements $ 239 Principal balance $ 7,670 Income balance $ 56 Anne E. Borghesani Memorial Prize Established 1990, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded to a woman in the senior class of Lexington High School who has demonstrated a commitment to the community. Disbursements $ 1,800 Principal balance $ 74,203 Income balance $ 552 Pauline Briggs Memorial Scholarship Fund Established 2004, three - quarters of the income may be used to fund need -based scholarship to graduates of Minuteman Regional High School. Disbursements $ 22 Principal balance $ 8,155 Income balance $ 52 James Cataldo Scholarship Fund Established 2005, three - quarters of the income may be used to fund need -based scholarships to children of Lexington town employees who have graduated from either Lexington High School or Minuteman Regional High School. Disbursements $ 144 Principal balance $ 9,844 Income balance $ 64 continued on next page Page 104 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Trustees of Public Trusts continued from previous page Robert and Edith Cataldo Family Scholarship Fund in Memory of Jerie Cataldo DeAngelis Established 2004, up to three - quarters of the set income shall fund scholarships for a graduate of Lexington High School who demonstrates financial need and is committed to teaching, especially those with learning disabilities. Disbursements $ 972 Principal balance $ 13,723 Income balance $ 95 Robert P. Clapp Fund Income is to provide two prizes for pupils of Lexington High School, one for excellence in speaking and the other for excellence in composition, for scholarships. Principal balance $ 1,937 Income balance $ 14 Bettie Clarke Scholarship Fund Established 1993, three - quarters of the annual net income to be awarded to a Lexington senior at Lexington High School or Minuteman Regional High School, who joyously, intelligently, and cre- atively participates in community public service, and has demonstrated a respect for all points of view. Disbursements $ 1,403 Principal balance $ 20,355 Income balance $ 148 Norman P. Cohen Scholarship Fund Established 2002, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded to a Lexington resident who is a graduate of either Lexington High School or Minuteman Regional High School and has shown evidence of financial need. Disbursements $ 255 Principal balance $ 9,973 Income balance- $ 67 Millerd Chandler Crocker Family Scholarship Established 1973, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be award- ed to a Lexington High School senior, preferably one who graduated from Bridge School, has financial need, loves fam- ily, and is involved in community and school activities. Disbursements $ 207 Principal balance $ 6,672 Income balance $ 48 Nan and Ray Culler Scholarship Fund Established 1998, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded to graduating senior(s) who are residents of Lexington, and who have participated in community public service, includ- ing volunteer activities in town. Disbursements $ 735 Principal balance $ 30,291 Income balance $ 214 June Denk Fund Established 1994, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be used to award a scholarship and book selected by the Principal of Lexington High School to a graduating senior who either volunteered in the Student Library or made extensive use of the Student Library. Disbursements $ 1,360 Principal balance $ 34,493 Income balance $ 250 Earl and Elsie Dooks Scholarship Fund Established 2000, three - quarters of the income shall fund a scholarship (s) to a Lexington High School graduate who is planning to study and enter the field of teaching. Disbursements $ 218 Principal balance $ 8,341 Income balance $ 60 Mickey Finn Scholarship Fund Established 1996 by the family and friends of Mickey Finn who was a President of the Lexington Little League, a coach, and mentor of many Lexington youth. The scholarship is to be awarded to a graduating senior who participated in Lexington Little League or Girls' Softball. Disbursements $ 400 Principal balance $ 11,457 Income balance $ 68 William P. Fitzgerald Memorial Athletic Scholarship Fund Established 1998, to be awarded to a Lexington High School senior who has shown positive growth in his or her athletic abilities and is recognized as a good person. Principal balance $ 18,862 Income balance $ 818 Charles E. French Medal Fund Established 1905, the income is to be used annually to purchase silver medals (or scholarship) to be distributed to pupils in the senior high school for the best scholarship. Disbursements $ 184 Principal balance $ 5,976 Income balance $ 44 Nancy Gordon Memorial Scholarship Fund Established 2002, three - quarters of the annual net income shall be awarded to a graduate of either Lexington High School or Minuteman Regional High School who demonstrates finan- cial need and is going to pursue a degree in education. Disbursements $ 143 Principal balance $ 5,503 Income balance $ 40 continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 105 Trustees of Public Trusts continued from previous page Mary P. Grace Scholarship Fund Established 1998, three - quarters of the annual net income is to fund scholarships. Disbursements $ 359 Principal balance $ 13,983 Income balance $ 100 Harrington Memorial Fund To be used by the school committee of Lexington for scholarships for needy children. Disbursements $ 1,854 Principal balance $ 68,842 Income balance $ 497 Heritage Scholarship Fund Established 1999, three -quar- ters of the annual net income is to be awarded to a Lexington High School graduate(s) who is a resident of Lexington, has demonstrated financial need, has done his or her work conscientiously while not necessarily being in the top ten percent of the class Disbursements $ 1,868 Principal balance $ 73,286 Income balance $ 529 Jacqueline Toye Hoiriis Scholarship Fund Established 2001, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded annually to a Lexington High School or Minuteman Regional High School graduate who is a resident of Lexington, has been a member of the Haydenette Precision Skating Team, and has been accepted at a college or university. Disbursements $ 298 Principal balance $ 11,178 Income balance $ 81 Richard Isenberg Scholarship Fund Established 1986, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded annually to a member of the junior or senior class of Lexington High School who has demonstrated excellence in sports writing. Disbursements $ 500 Principal balance $ 25,507 Income balance $ 331 George E. Jansen Scholarship Fund Established 2005, three - quarters of the income may be used to fund need - based scholarships to graduates of Minuteman Regional High School. Principal balance $ 5,850 Income balance $ 12 Gladys & Arthur Katz Scholarship Established 2005, three - quarters of the income may be used to fund need - based scholarships to graduates of Lexington High School or Minuteman Regional High School. Principal balance $ 5,050 LHS Class of 1938 Established 1998, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded annually to two seniors of LHS, (a boy and a girl) with financial need who have shown high quality of leadership and character. Disbursements $ 209 Principal balance $ 8,391 Income balance $ 61 LHS Class of 1953 /June Wilson Kennedy Fund Established 2000. Beginning in 2003, three - quarters of the annual net income shall be awarded to a student who has demonstrated financial need and worked conscientiously and to the best of his or her ability without necessarily achieving a high level of academic standing. Disbursements $ 1,056 Principal balance $ 44,278 Income balance $ 317 Lexington High School Class of 1954 /Lawrence G. Movsessian Memorial Scholarship Fund Established 2000, up to three - quarters of the income shall fund need - based scholarships to graduates of Lexington High School. Disbursements $ 302 Principal balance $ 18,460 Income balance $ 134 Lexington High School Class of 1996 Scholarship Fund Established 1996, three - quarters of the income may be used to fund need -based scholarships to graduates of Lexington High School. Principal balance $ 5,227 Income balance $ 37 Lexington Outlook Club /Bessie and Gabriel Baker Scholarship Fund Established 1989, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded to women in the senior class of Lexington High School who are going to college. Disbursements $ 427 Principal balance $ 16,404 Income balance $ 118 Lexington Outlook Club Scholarship Fund Established 1902, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded to women in the senior class of Lexington High School who are going to college. Disbursements $ 539 Principal balance $ 20,886 Income balance $ 151 continued on next page Page 106 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Trustees of Public Trusts continued from previous page Lexington Outlook Club /Maxine Francis Warnecke Scholarship Fund Established 1986, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded to women in the senior class of Lexington High School who are going to junior college or college, who need financial assistance, and who have made a commitment to pursue a career in medicine or science. Disbursements $ 5,874 Principal balance $ 251,279 Income balance $ 1,813 Lexington PTA Council Scholarship Fund Established 1966, to gives financial awards to deserving Lexington stu- dents to be applied to the cost of their post- secondary undergraduate education. Disbursements $ 20,696 Principal balance $ 147,154 Income balance $ 46,171 Lexington Police Children's Scholarship Fund Established 2000, three - quarters of the income is to fund scholarship(s) for children of currently active Lexington Police officers. Principal balance $ 5,929 Income balance $ 3,348 Lexington Police Scholarship Fund Established 1966, three - quarters of the income may be used to fund need - based scholarship(s) to a graduate(s) of Lexington High School, preferably those planning to enter the field of law enforcement. Disbursements $ 171 Principal balance $ 5,563 Income balance $ 40 Christine Martin Scholarship Fund Established 1999, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded to a senior at Lexington High School who plans to pursue a career working with children and has a history of volunteer work and /or has been active in the fight to prevent drinking and driving. Disbursements $ 500 Principal balance $ 20,789 Income balance $ 243 Carolyn M. McCabe Memorial Scholarship Fund Established 1986, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded to a woman in the senior class of Lexington High School who was a varsity athlete and who demon- strated aspects of Carolyn's character, i.e. good sportsman- ship, inspired competition, spirit, and fun. Nominations must be made by a teammate or coach. Disbursements $ 1,000 Principal balance $ 41,082 Income balance $ 1,529 Robert & Mary McNamara Family Scholarship Fund in Memory of Edward Joseph McNamara, Jr. Established 2004, three - quarters of the income may be used to fund need -based scholarships to graduates of Lexington High School who was a member of the football team and a resi- dent of Lexington. Disbursements $ 1,000 Principal balance $ 5,000 Leo P. McSweeney Scholarship Fund Established 2004 to fund scholarships to a graduate of LHS. Graduate must be a current resident of Lexington, have demonstrated com- munity involvement, and be a direct descendent of an elect- ed Town official, preferably a Selectman. Up to three -quar- ters of the annual net income may be spent. Disbursements $ 104 Principal balance $ 5,707 Income balance $ 42 Srinivasu Meka Scholarship Fund Established 1996 by the family and friends of Srinivasu Meka, a member of the LHS Class of 1991 who died in 1994. The recipient must have at least a 3.0 average, have been involved in student council or sports, and is planning to attend a 4 -year college or university. Disbursements $ 800 Principal balance $ 28,112 Income balance $ 274 Dominic and Assunta Modoono Family Scholarship Fund Established 2000, up to three - quarters of the income earned shall fund scholarship(s) on a need -based basis to graduate(s) of Lexington High School or Minuteman Regional High School. Recipients should have selflessly, enthusiastically, and creatively served their school and community. Disbursements $ 1,805 Principal balance $ 58,992 Income balance $ 423 Amanda Payson Scholarship Fund Established 1933, three - quarters of the annual net income shall be awarded to female graduates of LHS who demonstrate financial need. Disbursements $ 8,675 Principal balance $ 331,061 Income balance $ 2,383 continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 107 Trustees of Public Trusts continued from previous page Virginia M. Powers Scholarship Fund Established 1995, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded to a woman student with financial need who evidences a seri- ousness of purpose, a clear sense on responsibility, coupled with humility and respect for others. Disbursements $ 429 Principal balance $ 16,567 Income balance $ 120 Elsa W. Regestein Award Fund Established 1933 by Marcia Dane, the income to be used for awards to a mem- ber of the senior class of the Lexington High School who has done school work conscientiously and creditably and who, in the judgment of the faculty, deserves public com- mendation for carrying on at the same time, either in or out of school, a worthwhile activity or employment which has not been given other recognition. No scholarship will be awarded until the principal balance reaches $5,000. Principal balance $ 3,404 Income balance $ 24 Morton L. Salter Scholarship Fund Established 2000, three - quarters of the income shall fund need -based scholar- ships. Disbursements $ 6,150 Principal balance $ 59,490 Income balance $ 5,371 Dorothea Schmidt -Penta Memorial Scholarship Fund Established 1980, three - quarters of the income to be award- ed to a Lexington High School senior planning to enter the field of health service. Disbursements $ 210 Principal balance $ 6,743 Income balance $ 49 Mary and August Schumacher Trust Fund Established 1988, three - quarters of the income is to be used annually to fund two scholarships, of equal value, to seniors at Lexington High School who have been accepted to an accredited college, have worked diligently on academic studies while perhaps not being in the top ten percent of the class, and who have a need for funds to obtain a college education. Disbursements $ 2,519 Principal balance $ 91,957 Income balance $ 661 Foster Sherburne and Tenney Sherburne Fund Established 1956, the net income is to be awarded annually to assist in the education of deserving young men or women living in Lexington. Disbursements $ 1,172 Principal balance $ 37,131 Income balance $ 269 George 0. Smith Scholarship Fund Established 1905, to be used for "furnishing of a technical education to gradu- ates of the high school in Lexington, who were born in that town." The scholarship has been modified to those whose parents were living in Lexington at time of birth and fields of study broadened to engineering, physical science or relat- ed fields. Disbursements $ 9,000 Principal balance $ 401,828 Income balance $ 12,041 Mary Sorenson Memorial Fund Established 1969, three - quarters of the annual net income to be awarded to gradu- ating seniors in need of financial assistance. Disbursements $ 184 Principal balance $ 7,137 Income balance $ 52 J. Stavenhagen Family Scholarship Fund Established 2000, up to three - quarters of the income earned shall fund need based scholarship(s) to student(s) who have worked conscientiously to the best of their ability without necessar- ily achieving high academic standing Disbursement $ 144 Principal balance $ 5,592 Income balance $ 40 Ellen A. Stone Fund Established 1890, the accrued inter- est to be paid to the school committee who are to employ it in aiding needy and deserving young women of Lexington in obtaining a higher education. Disbursements $ 239 Principal balance $ 7,738 Income balance $ 56 Steven Teitelbaum Memorial Scholarship Fund — Established 2000, three - quarters of the annual net income to be awarded to a male senior, graduating from LHS plan- ning to attend a two- or four -year college or university, and planning to participate in post -High School athletics. Recipient must have been a member of varsity athletic teams in at least two different sports, one of which must have been football or hockey. Disbursements $ 1,015 Principal balance $ 14,903 Income balance $ 581 Richard S. Townsend Scholarship Fund — Established 1997 to fund scholarships for male graduates of Lexington High School who have financial needs. Disbursements $ 100 Principal balance $ 5,226 Income balance $ 37 continued on next page Page 108 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Trustees of Public Trusts continued from previous page Charles Lyman Weld Fund Established 1946, the entire fund, both principal and income are available upon a vote of the Town, for educational purposes, a chapel at Westview Cemetery, or scholarships. Disbursements $ 395 Principal balance $ 14,964 Income balance $ 108 S. Lawrence Whipple History Established 1996 by his many friends in honor of "Larry" Whipple, the scholarship will be awarded to a Lexington resident currently attending a public or private secondary school or college, who has demonstrated a genuine affinity for this community and has made a significant contribution to a better understanding of Lexington's past. Disbursements $ 829 Principal balance $ 11,675 Income balance $ 356 Edward & Virginia Williams Scholarship Fund Established 2002, up to three - quarters of the income earned shall fund need -based scholarships to students who have worked diligently and demonstrated excellent community involvement and /or service. Disbursements $ 250 Principal balance $ 22,871 Income balance $ 158 Sevag Yazijian Memorial Scholarship Fund Established 1995, three - quarters of the annual net income is to be awarded to a Lexington High School senior planning to become a physician, who has demonstrated consistent aca- demic improvement, possessed aspects of Sevag's easy -going personality, is dedicated to family, friends, and community, evidences a desire to see others happy, and shows pride in an ethnic heritage. Disbursements $ 415 Principal balance $ 7,241 Income balance $ 63 CEMETERY FUND Munroe Cemetery Fund Income is to be used in the main- tenance of Munroe Cemetery. Disbursements $ 19,633 Principal balance $ 381,686 Income balance $ 10,272 Westview Cemetery Perpetual Care Fund Income is to be used in the maintenance of Westview Cemetery. Disbursements $ 113,507 Principal balance $ 2,199,246 Income balance $ 76,395 Town Counsel APPOINTED by the Board of Selectmen: William Lahey of Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge LLP since December 2001. Expenditures FY05 FY04 Legal Fees $399,614 $350,392 Pursuant to Section 5 of Article XXI of the General By- Laws of the Town of Lexington, this report was submitted in writing by Town Counsel for the period from January 1, 2005 to December 31, 2005. The report is divided into the several sections required by the By -Laws. All actions by or against the Town which were pending on January 1, 2005. 1. Jerome & Ruth Berg, et al. v. Town of Lexington, et al., Land Court No. 264514. Appeal from a decision of the Planning Board approving a subdivision on Grandview Avenue. 2. Grandview Realty, LLC v. Lexington Zoning Board of Appeals, Housing Appeals Committee (HAC) No. 05- 11. Appeal from a decision of the Board of Appeals granting with conditions a Comprehensive Permit on Grandview Avenue pursuant to G.L. c. 40B. 3. Lawrence G. Trebino, Trustee v. Lexington Planning Board, et al., Land Court No. 266945. Appeal from a decision of the Planning Board disapproving a subdivi- sion. 4. Steven M. Raskind, et al. v. Town of Lexington et al., Land Court No. 269183. Appeal from a decision of the Board of Appeals reversing a decision of the zoning enforcement officer that a lot was not buildable. 5. Robert W. Adams, et al. v. Lexington Zoning Board of Appeals, et al., Land Court No. 276627. Appeal of Zoning Board of Appeals decision granting variance. 6. Rising Tide Development LLC v. Lexington Zoning Board of Appeals, Housing Appeals Committee (HAC) No. 03 -0521. Appeal of grant by the Lexington Board of Zoning Appeals of a Comprehensive Permit with conditions pursuant to G.L. c. 40B. (HAC decision against Town appealed by abutters.) continued on next page 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 109 Town Counsel continued from previous page 7. William Taylor, et al., v. Lexington Zoning Board of Appeals, et al., Middlesex Superior Court No. 03 -0746. Appeal of grant by Board of Appeals of Comprehensive Permit pursuant to G.L. c. 40B. 8. James R. Raymond, et al. v. Lexington Planning Board, et al., Land Court No. 292408. Appeal of decision of the Planning Board concerning 29 Rangeway Road. 9. Town of Lexington v. Massachusetts Highway Department, Executive Office of Environmental Affairs and Modern Continental Construction Company, Middlesex Superior Court No. 03 -3228. Action by Town in Superior Court for injunctive relief and a declaratory judgment relating to MHD's failure to con- sider noise and other environmental impacts as part of the Route 3 /Route 128 interchange construction pro- ject in Lexington. 10. Lexington Historic Districts Commission v. Ranne P. Warner, Middlesex Superior Court No. 04 -0292. Action to enforce non - compliance with HDC Order and continued nonpayment of fines regarding property at 30 Hancock Street. 11. Ranne P. Warner v. Lexington Historic District Commission, Middlesex Superior Court No. 01 -0397. Appeal from a decision of the Historic Districts Commission denying a certificate of appropriateness. 12. Lexington Historic Districts Commission v. Thomas and Laura Sheedy, Middlesex Superior Court No. 04- 293. Action to enforce non - compliance with HDC Order and continued nonpayment of fines regarding property at 11 Harrington Road. 13. Katherine F. Conroy v. Lexington Conservation Commission, et al, Middlesex Superior Court No. 03- 1956. Appeal from denial by Conservation Commission of order of conditions at property at Lincoln Street. Being handled by Counsel appointed by insurance company. 14. Quinn Bros. of Essex, Inc. v. Town of Lexington, et al. v. Stephen Hale Architects, Middlesex Superior Court C.A. No. 04 -2233B and other related cases. Claims by general contractor and subcontractors on Cary Memorial Library project to recover payments alleged- ly owed by general contractor and claim by Lexington against architect for the project. 15. Hartman v. Lexington Zoning Board of Appeals, Land Court Case No. 300320. Appeal of decision by Zoning Board of Appeals regarding property at 131 Shade Street. 16. Casella v. Lexington Zoning Board of Appeals, Land Court Case No. 279910. Appeal of a decision by Zoning Board of Appeals regarding property on Steadman Road. 17. Castoldi v. Lexington Zoning Board of Appeals, Land Court No. 300892. Appeal of Zoning Board decision concerning 43A North Street. 18. Daniel Taylor and Taylor Made Carpentry, Inc. v. Town of Lexington Planning Board, Land Court No. 282120. Summary judgment granted to Town on appeal from a decision of the Planning Board denying a definitive sub- division. All actions brought by or against the Town dur- ing 2005. 1. Jane C. Mack v. Town of Lexington, Concord District Court Small Claims Session No. 0547SC -0799. Claim in estimated amount of $1,000 against Town for alleged damage to house from public shade tree. 2. Katherine F. Conroy v. Town of Lexington, et al., Middlesex Superior Court No. 05 -3535. Claim for alleged regulatory taking as a result of Conservation Commission action. Being handled by counsel appoint- ed by insurance company. 3. Capital Carpet and Flooring Specialists v. Peabody Construction Co., Inc. v. Town of Lexington, Middlesex Superior Court No. 05- 05066. Action by flooring subcontractor to recover disputed payment estimated in amount of $52,000 for work performed at Lexington High School. All actions settled or disposed of during 2005. 1. City of Waltham, et al. v. Lexington Zoning Board of Appeals and Conservation Commission and Symmes Life Care, Inc., Middlesex Superior Court No. 04- 4311. Action involving a special permit at 1010 Waltham Street. Case dismissed with prejudice. 2. Castoldi v. Lexington Zoning Board of Appeals, Land Court No. 300892. Case dismissed with prejudice. 3. Daniel Taylor and Taylor Made Carpentry, Inc. v. Town of Lexington Planning Board, Land Court No. 282120. Summary judgment granted to Town on appeal from a decision of the Planning Board denying a definitive sub- division. Page 110 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Lexington by the Numbers Settled 1642, incorporated as Town of Lexington 1713 Latitude: 42.26N Longitude: 71.13W Area of town in acres 10, 650.42 Area of town in square miles 16.64 Extreme length in miles 5 80 Extreme width in miles 4 85 Highest elevation, feet above m.s.I. 374 Lowest elevation, feet above m s I. 110 2005 2004 Population 30,765 30,949 Public School Student Enrollment 6196 6133 Town -owned conservation land, acres 1345.1 1320.7 Total Revenue Sources (FY) $126,443,036 . . $1 17,651,167 Total Operating Expenses (FY) $122,776,030 . . $1 13,501,072 Average single - family tax bill (FY) $7246 $6429 Typical annual residential water /sewer bill (FY) $1162 $915 Solid Waste Trash (tons) 9361 9404 Recycled Materials (tons) 5444 5582 Average selling price of single - family home* $862,040 $832,005 Single- family homes sold* 333 354 Single- family homes demolished 82 63 Permits issued for new single - family homes 80 76 Town of Lexington Moody's Credit Rating Aaa Aaa Town of Lexington Mailing Address: 1625 Massachusetts Avenue Lexington, MA 02420 Telephone: 781- 862 -0500 Web Site address: http: / /ci.lexington.ma.us * Based on data supplied by M. L. S. Property Information Network, Inc. Data maintained by the Realtor Board or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity. 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington Page 111 A Appeals 53 -55 Appropriation Committee 83 -84 Arts Council 79 Assessors 87-88 B Battle Green Guides (see Tourism Committee) Bicycle Advisory Committee 70 Biosafety Committee 27 BOA 53 -55 Board of Appeals 53 -55 Board of Assessors 8 7 -8 8 Board of Health 27 -28 Board of Registrars 10 -11 Board of Selectmen 4 -6 Building Division/Office of Community Development 63 C Capital Expenditures Committee ... 85 -86 Cary Lecture Series 79 Cary Memorial Library 75 -76 Celebrations Committee 80 Cemetery Division 35 Center Committee 65 Clerk 10 -11 COA 72 Combined Balance Sheet 94 Commission on Disability 73 Communications Advisory Committee82 Community Development 63 Community Education 51 Comptroller 90 Comptroller Schedule of Appropriations 90 -93 Conservation Commission 68 -69 Conservation Land Inventory 69 Council on Aging 72 Council for the Arts 79 D DAC 62 Debt Service Summary 89 Department of Public Works 29 -38 Design Advisory Committee 62 Dolores Hidalgo Sister City Committee81 DPW 29 -38 E Elected Officials 11 Election 12 Electric Utility Ad Hoc Committee 41 Engineering Division 30 F Fair Housing and Human Relations Committee 74 Fire Department 25 -27 Forestry Division 34 -35 Fund for Lexington 100 H Hanscom Area Town Committee 64 -65 Hanscom Field Advisory 64 -65 Commission HATS 64 -65 HDC 57 -61 Health Benefits Review Committee . . . . 17 Health Department 27 -28 HFAC 64 -65 Highway Division 31 Historic Districts Commission 57 -61 Historical Commission 62 Housing Authority 62 Human Services Committee 72 L LexHAB 66 Lexington 2020 Vision 8 Lexington Center Committee 65 Lexington Community Education 51 Lexington Council for the Arts 79 Lexington Historical Commission 62 Lexington Housing Assistance Board . 66 Lexington Housing Authority 66 Lexington Housing Partnership 67 Lexington Public Schools 43 -51 Lexington School Committee 43 -44 Lexington Tree Committee 39 -40 Lexington Youth Commission 74 Lexington- Dolores Hidalgo Sister City Committee 81 LEXPRESS 36 -37 Library 75 -76 LYC 74 M MAGIC 56 -57 Management Information Systems 7 MAPC 56 -57 Minuteman Regional High School 50 -51 MIS 7 Moderator 11 MPO 56 -57 N No Place for Hate Committee 8 -9 0 Office of Community Development.... 63 Operating Expenses 3 P Parking Operation 36 Parks Division 34 PBC 40 Permanent Building Committee 40 Personnel Advisory Board 9 Planning 52 -53 Police Department 22 -24 Police Manual Committee 24 Public Building Maintenance 30 -31 Public Grounds 34 -36 2005 Annual Report Town of Lexington, Massachusetts R Recreation 77 Regional Planning 56 -57 Regional Transportation Advisory Council 56 -57 Registrars 10 -11 Retirement Board 99 Revenue Officer 86 Revenue Sources 2 Revenues/Expenditures /Fund Balances . . 95 Road Machinery Division 32 5 Schedule of Appropriations 90 -93 School Committee 43 -44 School Expenditures 47 -49 Selectmen 4 -6 Senior Center 71 -72 Sister Cities 81 Sidewalk Committee 41 -42 Snow Removal Operations 31 Social Services 71 Solid Waste Management 32 -34 Special Revenue 96 -98 Special Town Meeting 21 Street Light Maintenance 35 -36 Superintendent of Schools 45 -46 T Tax Deferral and Exception Study 89 TMMA 16 Tourism Committee 78 Town Celebrations Committee 80 Town ClerkBoard of Registrars .... 10 -11 Town Counsel 109 -110 Town Election 12 Town Manager 6 -7 Town Meeting Members 13 -15 Town Meeting Members Association . . 16 Town Meeting 18-21 Traffic Safety Advisory Committee .... 28 Transportation Advisory Committee . 36 -37 Transportation Services 3 6 -3 7 Treasurer 86 Tree Committee 39 -40 Trustees of Public Trust 100 -109 V Veterans' Services 71 w Waste Management 32 -34 Water /Sewer Divisions 3 7 -3 8 Water and Sewer Rate Study 38 Y Youth Commission 74 Page 112 2005 Annual Report, Town of Lexington