HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-03-BOS-min 61-323
Selectmen's Meeting Minutes
March 1, 1999
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, March 1, 1999 in the
Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Enrich, Mr. Fenn, Mr.
Busa, Mrs. Eddison, Mrs. Krieger, Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel, Mr.White, Town Manager and
Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk were present.
Appreciation of Outgoing Selectmen Busa and Fenn
Selectmen Dan Busa and Dan Fenn were each presented a gavel by Neil Cronin who had made
them from the limbs of an elm tree that had fallen on the Battle Green from the storm of May 9,
1977. Mr. Cronin said he had fashioned them but that they were being presented to them by their
colleagues on the Board of Selectmen and "all you people from Lexington that they have served
for the last six years".
Representative Kaufman read a proclamation from the House of Representatives congratulating
them on their service to the Town.
Mrs. Krieger in presenting her colleagues with Lexington Golf Shirts told them how over the
past year she had grown to have a great deal of respect and admiration for them. She spoke of
how important what the Dans were thinking about meant to her and the other Board members.
How Dan Busa during the discussion of the Webb Street issue had said how important it was to
give a message to the developers in Town who are abiding by the laws of the Town. She praised
the work of Dan Fenn with the Lexington Education Fund and the Fund for Lexington and his
work for HATS. She expressed admiration for their commitment, dedication and wisdom on the
Board.
Mrs. Eddison presented each of them with flags that had flown over the Battle Green today and
said if they have a pole as big as the one on the Green they would be able to fly the flag. She
gave them many many thanks from everyone on the Board and in fact everyone in Town.
Mr. Enrich in presenting them with Paul Revere bowls added his praises for their service on the
Board over the past six years. A couple of things that came to his mind when he thought of both
of their leaving at the same time was the very close relationship they have built that is a
testament to both their depth of character, warmth and humanity. Like Jay Kaufman it struck me
you both brought two different views to the Board. Dan Busa, I have valued your ability to put
some perspective on what we do and to remind us often through your humor and often through
the questions you asked about the relatively limited place that the public sector plays in making a
Town like this work and reminding us that we aren't the center of the universe, that we shouldn't
try to be the center of the universe. Part of our job is to stay out of the way. Dan Fenn on the
other hand has brought a kind of seriousness and sophistication about the way one runs a public
sector operation. The good piece of news is that you are both going to be continuing on as Town
Meeting Members and hopefully be joined by Mr. McSweeney as well.
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Selectmen's Meeting - March 1, 1999
Mr. Busa spoke of how it has been his privilege serving as a member of the Board. From the
beginning my thought was that we are only here for a short period of time and in a community
like Lexington it has meant so much to me that service on this Board is truly just that it's a
service to the people who live here and who make the Town what it is. I wish more people
would simply feel that way and be involved and as Peter said so well not think that we are the
center of the issue, the center of the issue is the good of the Town. That was my sole purpose
here and will always be my purpose while I live in Lexington and I appreciate all the help my
colleagues and the staff has given to me while I have been here. It has truly been my pleasure
and I would encourage anyone to think of doing the same thing. It's your Town and you should
become involved in it.
Mr. Fenn spoke of how people asked him when he first ran for the Board with all the things he
had done in Washington during the Kennedy years why he would come and serve as a Selectmen
in Lexington. I answered them that it is very simple. Public service, politics, government is one
line of work, one business, whether you are doing it in Washington or you're doing it in Boston
or Lexington. It is not just an obligation of all of us, it is an opportunity for all of us. It's an
exciting business, it's an interesting business, it can be a very painful business, it can be a very
brutal business, but upon participation, as my colleague and friend has said, depends the future,
not just of the Town, but of our society. I encourage people to get involved in this fascinating,
difficult, exciting and critically important business.
Continuation of Hearing - License for Storage, Operation and Maintenance of a Compressed
Natural Gas Facility
The Chairman called the continuation of the hearing on the application of AVSG LP for a license
for the storage, operation and maintenance of a compressed natural gas facility on State property
off the ramp from 128 North towards Route 2A east.
Mr. Permatteo, President of AVSG was present to answer questions. Mr. Ed Brown of 8 Birch
Hill Lane said his meeting and the information provided by Assistant Fire Chief Peter Torode
was very helpful in resolving a number of questions he had. There was discussion about
emergency response of the Fire Department, safety and alarm systems that will be installed at the
facility and about alternative locations for the facility.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application and issue a
license for the storage, operation and maintenance of a compressed natural gas facilility on State
owned land at Route 128N as shown on a site plan on file in the Selectmen's Office.
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Selectmen's Meeting - March 1, 1999
Consent Agenda
Water/Sewer commitments and Adjustments
Commitment of water charges for 11/03/98 (cycle 9) $131,618.30
Commitment of water charges for 12/15/98 (cycle 9) $87,056.01
Commitment of water charges for 1/12/99 (cycle 9) $83,472.42
Commitment of water charges for 10/1/98 to 10/31/98 $76,949.45
Commitment of water charges for 10/1/98 to 10/31/98 (finals) $14,811.35
Commitment of sewer charges for 10/1/98 to 10/31/98 (finals) $33,512.05
Commitment of water charges for 11/1/98 to 11/30/98 (finals) $3,484.80
Commitment of sewer charges for 11/1/98 to 11/30/98 (finals) $7,271.20
Commitment of water charges for 12/1/98 to 12/31/98 (finals) $2,088.70
Commitment of sewer charges for 12/1/98 to 12/31/98 (finals) $5,003.35
Adjustments of water charges for 11/1/98 to 11/30/98 -$783.60
Adjustments of sewer charges for 11/1/98 to 11/30/98 -$2,544.70
Adjustments of water charges for 12/1/98 to 12/31/98 -$81.40
Adjustments of sewer charges for 12/1/98 to 12/31/98 -$172.60
Proclamation
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request from the American
Red Cross and sign a proclamation recognizing the month of March as Red Cross Month.
Use of Battle Green
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request from the First Baptist
Church to use the Battle Green for an Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 4 from 6:30 to
7:15 a.m.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request from the Pastors
Fellowship for permission to use the Battle Green on Thursday, May 6 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30
p.m. for an Outdoor Prayer Service.
Battle Road 1999 Reenactment - April 17, 1999
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request from The Battle Road
Committee to conduct the Reenactment of the Retreat on Sunday, April 17 at Hastings and
Tower Parks.
Reenactment of the Midnight Ride of Paul Revere and William Dawes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the request from the Lexington
Historical Society to conduct the reenactment of the midnight ride of Paul Revere and William
Dawes on April 18-19, 1999.
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Selectmen's Meeting - March 1, 1999
Lion's Club Fourth of July Carnival
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was vote to approve the request of the Lexington Lion's
Club to use the Center Playground for the Fourth of July Carnival on the following dates:
Thursday, July 1st 6-11 p.m. Perkins children 3-5 p.m.
Friday, July 2nd 6-11 p.m.
Saturday, July 3rd 12-11 p.m. Fireworks @ 9:30 p.m.
Sunday, July 4th 12-11 p.m.
Monday, July 5th 12-10 p.m.
Depot Square/Emery Park
Depot Square Project Architect Ginna Johnson and William Taylor reviewed discussions with
interested parties concerning the replacement of the Norway maples. There was much discussion
about maintaining the consensus plan as it relates to the plantings. There was considerable
discussion also about the traffic flow and the width of the traffic lane. Mr. Busa and Mr.
Michelson expressed serious concern that the proposed traffic lane is too narrow and will create
a backup of traffic along Mass. Avenue. A motion to widen the traffic lane was offered by Mr.
Busa; however, the motion was not carried. There were no further motions made to alter the
consensus plan.
Lexington Skateboard Park
Skate Park Committee members Gary Skocay and Olga Guttag presented the Committee's
proposal to construct a Skateboard Park adjacent to the Center 2 Softball Field on Worthen Road.
The proposal was the result of much discussion with the Lexington Police Department, the
School Department, skaters and the Recreation Committee. Maintenance of the park will be a
joint venture between the Public Works Department and a continuation of the Committee that is
building the park. There will be maintenance tools on site and the skaters will be doing the daily
maintenance themselves. The Committee, in addition to raising sufficient funding for
construction, hopes to build up a maintenance fund. To avoid any liability concerns, the park
will not be supervised by anybody else other than the skaters.
Mrs. Eddison and Mr. Busa both felt the Committee should discuss with the schools the
importance of an education program. Mr. Robert McConnell said they conducted an information
night at the high school where the skaters were asked to sign a non-binding pledge for
responsible skating. The schools also have a skateboard club.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the site indicated in the proposal
on Worthen Road for the purpose of a skateboard park.
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Selectmen's Meeting - March 1, 1999
Minutes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of the meeting on
February 1, 1999.
Fire Department Reserve Fund Transfer
Mr. White reviewed the need to pursue a Reserve Fund transfer request from the Appropriation
Committee for unforeseen Fire Department engine repairs.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 10:10 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Phyllis A. Smith
Executive Clerk
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Selectmen's Meeting Minutes
March 8, 1999
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, March 8, 1999 in the
Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Enrich, Mrs. Eddison,
Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel, Mr.White, Town
Manager and Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk were present.
Chairman Enrich called the meeting to order and welcomed newly elected Board members Cathy
Abbott and Dawn McKenna.
Mr. Enrich explained that the Board operates under rules of procedure. The reorganization of the
Board under ordinary circumstances takes place after the conclusion of Town Meeting.
Therefore the election of Chairman will take place the first meeting after Town meeting closes.
Citizen Comments
Norma Floyd objected to the Board's not opposing the issuance of a Keno License to the Food
Store by the Massachusetts Lottery Commission. Mr. Enrich explained that the new prospective
owner came to the Selectmen's Meeting two weeks ago at which time the Board had an extensive
discussion about the Board's concerns regarding many issues about the operation of the food
store. After receiving positive reassurances from the new owner's attorney, the Board decided at
that time not to proceed for a hearing before the State Lottery Commission.
Consent Agenda
Conservation Restriction- 55 Hayden Avenue
Mrs. McKenna inquired as to whether there was provision for parking. The easement is for foot
traffic only. There are parking spaces available but no parking will be allowed on the easement.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve a conservation restriction at 55
Hayden Avenue.
Easement - Town of Lexington/Levy - Grassland Street
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to sign an easement concerning the Levy
property on Grassland Street that was approved under Article 59 at the 1998 Annual
Town Meeting.
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Selectmen's Meeting - March 8, 1999
One-Day Liquor License - St. Brigid's
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the application and issue a one-
day liquor license for the Lexington Bicentennial Band on May 22, 1999 at Kielty Hall, St.
Brigid's Church.
Update on South Lexington Intersections & Route 2A Project
BSC Representatives Dick Cook and Peter Briere were present to review the status of five South
Lexington Intersection traffic improvements that have been funded by monies set aside for the
South Lexington area. Plans on four of the intersections have been submitted to Mass Highway
consistent with the Town's approach. Comments will be received in two to three weeks time.
The intersections at Concord Ave. and Spring Street, Spring Street& Hayden Ave., Hayden Ave.
and the ramp westbound and Hayden Ave. with Waltham Street will be advertised for
construction and it is hoped that construction will start by late summer or early fall. The fifth
intersection, Spring Street and Marrett Road involves some property takings and negotiations
have not been completed with the property owner. Mr. Cook explained that without those
takings it would not be possible to create a safe environment for a police officer. Mr. Cook also
indicated that one way to take the property would be by eminent domain.
Mr. Cook also reported on the status of the Route 2A/Marrett Road Project. Two to three years
ago we thought we had arrived at a solution; however there is still some problems with the land
transfers. There are new owners of one of the parcels and they need to be educated first and
there are still two parcels that have to be acquired. Mass Highway has advertised the project;
however, BSC can't tell when the construction will begin. If all goes well construction could
start in early summer and the project will take two years. Because of the fatalities that have
occurred over the years, there is a good likelihood that this will receive high priority by Mass
Highway.
Solid Waste Action Team
Mrs. Krieger introduced Jill Stein and John Andrews who reviewed the Solid Waste Action
Team's report on Lexington's Solid Waste Future. The report presents four waste treatment
alternatives, Waste Prevention, Recycling, Landfilling and Incineration, the costs, advantages
and disadvantages of each alternative.
Mrs. Krieger expressed her optimism that Lexington has always been in the forefront and is off
to a very good start with the SWAT team in preparing for future alternatives and plans to
develop a major education effort.
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Selectmen's Meeting - March 8, 1999
FY2000 Budget
John Ryan presented a chronology of the budget process which started in September. At present
there still remains a $135,000 gap between anticipated revenue and appropriation requests.
Mr. Levine speaking as an individual and Town Meeting Member, not as a representative of the
Appropriation Committee expressed concern about ways things are being funded through the
Enterprise Funds. He mentioned one of the items that is not funded in Water and Sewer
Enterprise funds is rent. Some of the building maintenance is in these funds; however, they do
not include depreciation of the facility, which is in need of serious repair work. He also feels
that the Recreation Committee is proposing a new field at Harrington School at considerable
expense when one of the problems is that the maintenance of the fields is underfunded.
Mr. Enrich indicated the Board will be working toward presenting Town Meeting with a
balanced budget and hopes to take a vote on the budget next week. The Board will be addressing
remaining questions within the next week.
Liaison Assignments
Mr. Enrich indicated that Jeanne Krieger had expressed a willingness to be the Selectmen's
representative to HATS.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to designate Jeanne Krieger as the Lexington
Selectmen's Representative to HATS.
Dawn McKenna reported that she planned on attending the next MAGIC meeting scheduled in
Lexington.
Mr. Enrich asked Board members to be thinking further about liaison assignments.
Minutes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the minutes of the meeting of
February 8, 1999.
Selectmen Liaison Reports
Mrs. Eddison reported on a meeting last Saturday of a group convened by Representative
Marzilli concerning the Minuteman VoTech School Committee representation and budget
assessments. The next meeting will be on Saturday, March 20 at Estabrook Hall.
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Selectmen's Meeting - March 8, 1999
Executive Session
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted by roll call vote: Mrs. McKenna, Mrs.
Eddison, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Krieger and Mrs. Abbott to go into executive session for the purpose
of discussing matters of collective bargaining and litigation with no intent to resume open
session.
A true record, Attest:
Phyllis A. Smith
Executive Clerk
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Selectmen's Meeting Minutes
March 15, 1999
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, March 15, 1999 in the
Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Enrich, Mrs. Eddison,
Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel, Mr.White, Town
Manager and Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk were present.
Consent Agenda
National Women's History Month
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to sign a proclamation declaring the month
of March 1999 as Women's History Month.
Lexington High School Science Fair Day
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to sign a proclamation declaring March 12,
1999 as Lexington High School Science Fair Day.
Release of Executive Session Minutes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to release for public inspection the executive
session minutes of April 7 and April 26, 1993 relating to Muzzey School Litigation matters.
Appointment to Traffic Safety Advisory Committee
Mr. Enrich reported that he had received a memo from Public Works Director George Woodbury
recommending David Carbonneau replace Peter Chalpin as the DPW designee to the Traffic
Safety Advisory Committee.
Board members took the opportunity to thank Peter Chalpin for his 21 years of excellent
contribution as a member and chair of the Committee.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint David Carbonneau a member of
the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for a term to expire September 30, 1999.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to designate David Carbonneau the
Chairman of the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee.
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Selectmen's Meeting - March 15, 1999
Sewer Betterment Assessments
Mr. Carbonneau explained that he is asking the Board to approve betterment assessments which
represent 50% of the cost of constructing a public sewer to the following properties:
17 Bowman Street $5,120.34
15 Bowman Street $4,230.59
11 Bowman Street $4,099.20
Lot 3, Bowman Street $2,954.72
49 Golden Avenue $4,867.43
47 Golden Avenue $4,520.10
48 Golden Avenue $3,3 89.89
46 Golden Avenue $3,471.51
92 Vine Street $4,575.00
104 Vine Street $4,63 5.3 9
116 Vine Street $7,925.73
107 Vine Street $5,900.29
187 Spring Street $17,923.39
165 Spring Street $5,572.72
163 Spring Street $5,409.11
Lot 7, Spring Street $7,865.34
153 Spring Street $5,490.00
151 Spring Street $5,479.39
149 Spring Street $5,826.72
166 Spring Street $8 409.5 8
164 Spring Street $4,626.97
160 Spring Street $4,927.09
158 Spring Street $4,961.13
Lot 5A, Spring Street $6,210.29
154 Spring Street $4,645.27
152 Spring Street $10,964.63
Planning Board Zoning Articles
Planning Board Chairman Fred Merrill, Planning Board members Stacey Bridge-Denzak, Tony
Galaitsis and Town Planner Bob Bowyer were present to review the Zoning Articles for the
upcoming Town Meeting and answer questions from the Board.
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Selectmen's Meeting - March 15, 1999
Harrington Road/Battle Green Issues
Design Advisory Committee Chair Steve Hurley presented Committee recommendations to open
Harrington Road, traffic and other safety measures that should be taken on Bedford Street,
Hancock Street and Mass. Avenue, location of tour bus parking, installation of an apron around
Captain Parker statue, signage and crosswalk locations, other granite and curbing installations
and proposed new "T" bus locations.
There was much discussion both pro and con to the proposal to reopen Harrington Road.
Flintlock Road resident Bob Sawyer, former Selectman Dan Fenn, DAC member John Frey and
Harrington Road residents Tom Fortman and Al Gschwendtner spoke in favor of keeping the
road closed. Speaking in favor of opening the road up with the safety measures in place were
residents from the Meriam Hill Association, Forest Street residents Julian Bussgang and Beverly
Kelley.
Mrs. McKenna and Gardner Hayward spoke in favor of the alternate location on Mass. Avenue
for the tour buses thus avoiding parking in front of any of the monuments. Director of Guides
Larry Whipple indicated the tour buses usually originate from Route 128.
Police Chief Chris Casey said that while the signage was in place the Police Department over an
18 month period issued 156 citations. Since 1995 there have been no accidents with injuries and
the gate has effectively reduced accidents and injuries at the intersection. Chief Casey has
reviewed the plans with Mr. Hurley and feels Mr. Hurley has done a very conscientious job and
that the proposed plan should calm the traffic somewhat.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted that Harrington Road be reopened preceded
by traffic calming measures and line of site adjustments.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to locate the tour bus parking spaces along
the Mass. Avenue side of the Battle Green with the understanding of addressing design features
around the statue at an early future date and that the bus parking location will be temporary this
year after Patriot's Day through November 1 for hours to be specified.
Mr. White and Mr. Hurley will come back to the Board with an implementation schedule.
FY2000 Budget
Mr. White reviewed adjustments that have been made to the FY2000 budget since the Town
Manager's By-Law budget submittal on January 15. The Board should decide on some final
adjustments and then it should go to the finance committees for their review.
Mr. Enrich indicated that after a review of the School Department's cuts, there were many that
felt the school department's cuts were problematic. It may be appropriate to see if we can make
some small amount of additional funds available to the school budget.
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Selectmen's Meeting - March 15, 1999
One place to turn to is a $55,559 surplus after the latest cut and two other places that we should
look at is the $480,000 the schools are going to need for FY99. We could take $80,000 from the
Reserve Fund and the rest from Free Cash. The School Department hopes that the number is
going to be somewhat lower. If so, we could add that to the appropriation we are recommending
for the schools. The second place is the $122,000 set aside for Town and school liabilities for
Y2K costs. The Manager feels that we can comfortably reduce the $122,000.
There is one other piece we have not accommodated and that is the Historical Commission
article requesting $12,000 to be matched with $18,000 of State funds. It probably would be
prudent for us to take that $12,000 out of the $122,000 and another $70,000 for the schools
leaving $40,000 for Y2K contingencies.
Mrs. McKenna expressed concern about the level of cuts in the DPW and School budgets. She
recommended that $90,000 go back to the schools combined with the $55,559 surplus.
Mrs. Krieger felt she would prefer to leave $40,000 available for Y2K.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 3-2, Mrs. Krieger and Mr. Enrich opposed to
take $90,000 out of 1999 State Aid and add the $55,559 surplus and restore $145,559 to the
school department line item.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adopt the Town Manager's budget with
the adjustments previously voted and including the $12,000 for the Historical Commission
article as well as the adjustments listed by the Town Manager.
Article Positions
Special Town Meeting Article - Portable Classrooms - all in favor.
Article 4 Historic Preservation Incentives - all in favor.
Article 5 to be indefinitely postponed.
Article 7 Procedures, Section 8, Special Zoning District - all in favor.
Article 8 Automatic Teller Machines - all in favor.
Article 10 16 Hayden Ave., Amendment to CD District#8 - all in favor.
Article 11 to be indefinitely postponed.
Article 12 to be indefinitely postponed.
Article 14 Mansionization- 4-1 in favor, McKenna opposed.
Article 15 Wetlands Protection By-Law Revisions - all in favor.
Article 16 Transfer of Hennessy Field to Conservation- all in favor.
Article 19 By-law Amendment, Budget - all in favor.
Article 20 Board of Health Fines for Non-Criminal Disposition- all in favor.
Article 22 Operating Budget- adopted.
Article 24 Prior Years' Unpaid Bills to be indefinitely postponed.
Article 25 Supplementary Capital to be indefinitely postponed.
Article 26 Capital Projects and Equipment- all in favor.
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Selectmen's Meeting - March 15, 1999
Article 27 Sanitary Sewers - all in favor.
Article 28 Water Mains - all in favor.
Article 29 Pine Meadows Improvements - all in favor.
Article 30 Athletic Field Development- support 4-1, McKenna in opposition
Article 32 School Technology Program- all in favor.
Article 33 School Capital Project - all in favor.
Article 34 Land Acquisition Bond - all in favor.
Article 35 Land Acquisition to be indefinitely postponed.
Article 37 Historical Commission Matching Grant - all in favor
Article 38 Y2K- all in favor.
Article 39 Stabilization Fund to be indefinitely postponed.
Minutes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 3-0, Abbott and McKenna abstaining, to
approve the minutes of the meeting of February 22, 1999.
Executive Session Minutes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 3-0, Abbott and McKenna abstaining, to
approve the executive session minutes of the meeting of February 22, 1999.
Hanscom Four Town Planning Group - Update
Mrs. Krieger updated the Board on the work of the Four Town Planning Group in coming up
with a process to monitor and regulate development in the area and current plans to hire a
consultant. Last summer the Board appropriated $6,000 and to date $1,500 has been spent on
MAPC's work and it is expected that the consultant will be approximately $2,500.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 5-0 by roll call voted: Mrs. McKenna, Mrs.
Eddison, Mr. Enrich, Mrs. Krieger, and Mrs. Abbott to go into executive session for the purpose
of discussion of collective bargaining matters with no intent to resume open session.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 10:30 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Phyllis A. Smith
Executive Clerk
61-337
Selectmen's Meeting Minutes
March 22, 1999
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, March 22, 1999 in the
Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building at 6:45 p.m. Chairman Enrich, Mrs. Eddison,
Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel, Mr.White, Town
Manager and Ms. Pease, Assistant to the Executive Clerk were present.
Public Comment
David Kanter, Precinct 7, wanted to go on record with the Selectmen that he strenuously objects
to where Article 16 appears. He feels strongly that it should at least appear before Article 30 not
after.
Mr. Enrich explained that back when the articles were put together for the warrant we put the
non-financial articles together and the financial articles together. When the Board reviewed the
articles, Mrs. Krieger, on behalf of the Hennessy Field Committee, indicated that no one had any
objections to the articles being apart, but it was important to the Committee that the Board
understand that their two recommendations that appear in the warrant were integrally connected
to each other and that the willingness of that committee to agree that Hennessy Field could safely
be turned over to conservation use was part and parcel of the agreement that there needed to be
an additional soccer field put on-line currently at Harrington School. In recognition of that, Mrs.
Krieger requested that there be an understanding that Article 16 be taken up only after Article 30.
A majority of the Board agreed to that and that is the way we will be proceeding. Mrs. Krieger
says there will be an opportunity to discuss Article 16 when the motion is made at Town
Meeting.
Mr. Kanter said he spoke to Steve Colman and Debra Brown from the Committee and got a
different impression from them and, therefore, will challenge that at Town Meeting.
Consent Agenda
Christine Martin Memorial Scholarship Fund
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept the Christine Martin Memorial
Scholarship Fund to be awarded annually to a Lexington High School senior who plans to pursue
a career working with children in any capacity and who has a history of volunteer work and/or be
active in the fight to prevent drinking and driving.
Resignation—Cable TV and Communications Advisory Committee
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to accept with deep regret and best wishes
the resignation of David Carver from the Cable TV and Communications Advisory Committee.
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Selectmen's Meeting—March 22, 1999
Reappointment—Registrar of Voters
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to reappoint Luanna Devenis to the Registrar
of Voters for a term to expire March 31, 2002.
Town Meeting—Article Positions
Article 17—Transfer of Land at Fletcher Avenue to Conservation
4 opposed, 1 favored (McKenna)
Article 6—Zoning By-Law, Technical Corrections
Board supports the article aside from the definition of crawl space and the temporary
definition. The definition of crawl space and temporary will each be separated out and debated
separately.
Article 9—Zoning By-Law, CN and RO to CD, 903 Waltham Street
All opposed.
Article 13 —Wireless Communications, Institutional Buildings
The Cable TV and Communications Advisory Committee at their meeting on March 18,
1999, voted to not support Article 13. Board opposed article, Abbott abstained.
Selectmen Committee Liaisons
The Selectmen Liaisons will be as follows:
Abbott: Fair Housing and Human Relations Committee
Human Services Committee
LexHAB
Library Executive Committee
Middlesex County Hospital Ad-Hoc Committee
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Selectmen's Meeting—March 22, 1999
Eddison: Community Web Page Committee
Council on Aging
Design Advisory Committee
Lexington Bicycle Advisory Committee
Lexington Center Committee
Minuteman Science Tech. HS District Com.
Sister City Group
Town Report Committee
Traffic Safety Advisory Committee
Transportation Advisory Committee
Enrich: Historical Society
Initiating Committee
Lexington Council for the Arts
Personnel Advisory Board
Police Manual Policy Committee
Krieger: Cable TV and Communications Advisory Committee
Four Town Planning Group
Fund for Lexington Board
Hanscom Area Towns Committee
Hennessy Field Ad Hoc Committee
Met State Hospital Land Task Force
Solid Waste Action Team
McKenna: Fund for Lexington Board
Lexington Commission 2000
Long Range Planning Committee
Town Celebrations Committee
Youth Commission
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 7:40 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Lynne A. Pease
Assistant to the Executive Clerk
61-340
Selectmen's Meeting Minutes
March 24, 1999
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, March 24, 1999 in the
Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building at 7:00 p.m. Chairman Enrich, Mrs. Eddison,
Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna, Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel, Mr. White, Town
Manager and Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk were present.
Chairman Enrich called the meeting to order and welcomed the members of the Planning Board
and School Committee who were invited to join the Board for a presentation by the Initiating
Committee on its Lexington 20/20 Vision Report. The report represents the end of the
responsibilities of the Initiating Committee.
Chair of the Committee Fernando Quezada thanked members of the Committee who worked
with dedication and creativity. The Committee membership included Charles Benson, Helen
Cohen, Robin DiGiammarino, Peter Enrich, Alan Lazarus, Peter Lee, Fred Merrill, Peggy Perry,
Clarke Cowen and Marjorie Platt. Mr. Quezada also thanked the Town Manager and staff for
their help. Three committee members Chuck Benson, Marjorie Platt and Helen Cohen gave an
overview of the Vision Report.
Town Meeting Article Positions
Board members agreed to support the Retirement Board Article 21.
Purchase of Garrity House
Mrs. McKenna excused herself from the meeting.
Mr. Enrich reported that the current owners of the Garrity House Gail Arnold and Tim Segall
have notified the Town they have received an offer from Stephen and Dawn McKenna of
$355,000 to purchase the Garrity House. Under the terms of a Preservation Agreement dated
July 20, 1984, the Town has a 99 year purchase option expiring in the year 2083. Since the
house is out of the Town's price range, the Board should send a letter saying it is not interested in
purchasing the house at this time.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 4-0 to send a letter declining to purchase the
Garrity House at this time.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 7:40 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Phyllis A. Smith
Executive Clerk
61-341
Selectmen's Meeting Minutes
March 29, 1999
A regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday, March 29, 1999 in the
Selectmen's Meeting Room, Town Office Building at 7:00 p.m. Chairman Enrich, Mrs. Eddison,
Mrs. Krieger, Mrs. Abbott, Mrs. McKenna; Mr. Cohen, Town Counsel; Mr. White, Town
Manager and Ms. Smith, Executive Clerk were present.
Public Comments
Cornelius Cronin presented the Board with a proposal to make repairs to the monument on the
Battle Green and requested a meeting with the appropriate Public Works personnel. Public
Works Director George Woodbury offered to convene the group and Mrs. McKenna offered to
be the Board's representative as Custodian of the Battle Green.
Mrs. Eddison read from an article reporting that the Towns of Lexington and Chelmsford,
Massachusetts had been singled out in a national study of arts programs. Lexington Public
Schools were praised for considering the arts an integral part of every student's basic curriculum.
The report also cited the efforts of two community and parent organizations, the Citizen
Advisory Committee and the Friends of Lexington Music, Art and Drama Students. Board
members acknowledged that this was a pretty significant achievement and thanked Mrs. Eddison
for bringing it to the Board's attention.
Consent Agenda
Appointment of Town Counsel
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to appoint the firm of Palmer & Dodge, LLC
represented by Norman P. Cohen as Town Counsel for a term to expire March 31, 2000.
Battle Reenactment
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the use of the Battle Green for
the annual reenactment on Saturday, April 3, Saturday, April 11 and Monday, April 19, 1999.
Boston Edison Grant of Location Hearing - 94 Adams Street
Boston Edison Representative Carol McManus reviewed the petition, plan and orders for a grant
of location for conduit to be installed, owned and used by Boston Edison Company to provide
underground electric service to 94 Adams Street.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to approve the petition of the Boston Edison
Company to lay and maintain underground conduits and manholes, with the wires and cables to
be placed therein, under the surface of Adams Street: Install conduit southeasterly,
approximately 294 feet southwest of Emerson Road, a distance of about 9 feet.
61-342
Selectmen's Meeting - March 29, 1999
Article Positions
Article 13 - Wireless Communications, Setbacks Institutional Buildings. Board members felt
that since Federal Law prohibits setting restrictions for health reasons, they would not take a
position on the article and wait to see what happens at Town Meeting.
Article 17 - Transfer of Land at Mass. Ave. and Fletcher to Conservation. Four Board members
felt they are committed to come back to Town Meeting if they decide to do anything with the
land; however the four Board members felt they are opposed to the article. Mrs. McKenna
supported the article.
Article 36 - Town Building Inspection. There was much discussion about the intent of the article
and the best way to handle maintenance of all town and school buildings. DPW Director George
Woodbury said he has been working with the School Superintendent of Buildings and believes
they will be able to come up with building maintenance program software similar to the paving
maintenance program. However, that would be a couple of years down the road. It was agreed
that Mr. Woodbury would explain these plans to Town Meeting.
Minutes
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted 3-0 (Mrs. McKenna and Mrs. Abbott
abstained)to approve the minutes of the meeting of March 1, 1999.
School Resource Officer for the Middle Schools
Police Chief Chris Casey reviewed plans to transition the DARE officer position to a School
Resource Officer at the middle schools.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn at 7:50 p.m.
A true record, Attest:
Phyllis A. Smith
Executive Clerk