HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011- 03-00-CPC-ATM-rpt
Town of Lexington
Community Preservation Committee
Report to 2011 Annual Town Meeting
Article 8(a-l): Community Preservation Committee
CPA Projects
Submitted by:
Joel Adler
Norman Cohen
Marilyn Fenollosa, Vice Chair
Jeanne Krieger
Wendy Manz, Chair
Leo McSweeney
Sandra Shaw
Betsey Weiss
Richard Wolk
Nathalie Rice, Admin. Asst.
Released April 4, 2011
Community Preservation Committee
Annual Town Meeting 2011
Summary of Recommended Community Preservation
Act Funding for FY 2012
The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) is recommendingeightprojects to the 2011
Annual Town Meeting for funding. Described on the following pages, each of these projects was
evaluated by the CPC in light of the articulated criteria for eligibility and appropriateness under
the Community Preservation Act (CPA). The projects have been presented at a public hearing
held on December 7, 2010, at a League of Women Voters “First Friday” forum on March 4,
2011, and at a Town Meeting Members Association Information Session on March 16, 2011.
The total cost of all projects proposed for FY 2012 is $2,066,663.
The CPC also recommends approval of three additional allocations: (1) $974,600 for Busa Farm
debt service, (2) $1,300,604 for Cotton Farm debt service, and (3) $150,000 for CPC
administrative expenses. Therefore, the total of requested CPA allocations for FY 2012,
including both projects and additional allocations is $4,491,867.
Through the efforts of the Conservation Department and former CPC Chair Betsey Weiss, the
Town will receive $500,000 in State LAND (Local Acquisitions for Natural Diversity) grant
funds toward the purchase of the Cotton Farm property. The grant, when received, will partially
offset the FY 2012 debt payment of $1,300,604 on this land.
Community Preservation Committee
By statute, the CPC comprises nine members, of whom three are appointed by the Board of
Selectmen as at-large members, and six are appointed by the following boards and committees:
Planning Board, Conservation Commission, Historical Commission, Housing Partnership,
Housing Authority, and Recreation Committee. Currently, Wendy Manz serves as Chair of the
CPC and Marilyn Fenollosa serves as Vice Chair. In the fall of 2010, Betsey Weiss, long-
standing advocate for the CPA in Lexington, stepped down as Chair, while remaining on the
Committee as a representative of the Housing Partnership. Betsey ably guided the CPC through
its first five years, and the Committee is grateful to have her continuing support.
The CPC works closely with the Capital Expenditures and Appropriation Committees, as well as
with the Finance Department staff, in tracking CPA fund balances and expenditures, projecting
available funding for future years, and planning fund allocations for each of the areas eligible for
CPA funding: community housing, historic resources, open space and recreation. CPC
Administrator Nadie Rice currently tracks 35+ ongoing CPC projects, which are set out by year
in this Report under Status Reports.
1
Since Lexington’s adoption of the Community Preservation Act in 2006, the CPC has
recommended and Town Meeting has approved the funding of $23,300,147 for CPA projects.
These funds have supported 42 historic preservation projects, preserved 52.4 acres of open space,
created or preserved 8 recreational facilities, and created or supported 172 units of affordable
$6,403,189, or 27%, has been received from the State as matching
housing. Of this total,
funds.
Our CPA expenditures are funded by a voluntary surcharge on property taxes together with
matching funds from the State. Lexington adopted the CPA with the full 3% surcharge on both
residential and commercial taxpayers. Mindful of the burden on homeowners, however, the
Town also adopted provisions which exempt the first $100,000 of home value from the
surcharge, as well as granting a total exemption from the surcharge to lower income residents. In
2010, the annual surcharge averaged $245 per Lexington household. Our commercial taxpayers
contributed $639,153 last year, representing one-fifth of our CPA surcharge revenue. The State
match, originally, 100%, has declined since 2006 as additional communities have adopted the
statute and joined the funding pool, and as registry fees which feed the State fund have suffered
in a weak economy. However, the match is currently estimated at 25%, still a healthy return on
investment.
Through its membership in the statewide non-profit Community Preservation Coalition, the CPC
supportsAn Act to Sustain Community Preservation, which is now before the State legislature.
The proposed law makes a number of improvements to the CPA, including expanding the
definition of eligible projects and allowing communities to opt in to the statute by using existing
municipal funding sources rather than imposing the property tax surcharge. Most importantly,
the bill proposes to fix the State match of municipal funds at no less than 75% by adjusting real
estate recording fees. The bill has the support of 114 legislators, a majority of both houses, and
appears to have a good chance of passage this year.
CPC Position on Article 17
Article 17 before the 2011 Town Meeting proposes reducing our voluntary surcharge from 3% to
1%, (as permitted in the statute), to ease the burden on Lexington’s taxpayers. Unlike normal
property taxes, however, the CPA surcharge brings a substantial State subsidy that would
otherwise be unavailable to Lexington. For a very small addition to our annual property taxes
($245 on average in 2010) taxpayers leverage hundreds of thousands of dollars in matching
funds, $858,729 last year alone. Had Lexington opted for only a 1% surcharge in 2006, the loss
to us in State funds over the past five years would have been more than $4.2 million dollars.
In 2006, both of the Town’s finance committees opposed adoption of the CPA, in part because of
concern that paying the surcharge would discourage voters from supporting necessary overrides
or debt exclusions. This has not happened. Town Meeting has passed three overrides for
school/municipal funding and a debt exclusion for construction of our public services building
since the CPA was adopted. The finance committees give careful review to all projects proposed
for CPA funding, and have supported all but a handful of the projects recommended by the CPC.
Based on five years of experience with the CPA, both the Capital Expenditures Committee and
the Appropriation Committee now oppose Article 17.
2
The CPC strongly advocates retaining the 3% surcharge, rather than rejecting large State
distributions that are helping to preserve the values and character of our community.
Accordingly, the CPC strongly opposes Article 17.
For further information about the CPC, visit the CPC’s page of the Town’s website,
http://lexingtonma.gov/committees/cpc.cfm.
3
TOWN OF LEXINGTON
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
General Criteria for Project Selection
The Lexington Community Preservation Committee reviews proposals that are eligible for funding
under the Community Preservation Act (CPA), specifically projects for:
The acquisition, creation, and preservation of open space;
The acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation, and restoration of historic resources;
The acquisition, creation, and preservation of land for recreational use;
The creation, preservation, and support of community housing (including items such as annual
payments to the housing authority to preserve or expand the affordable housing supply); and
The rehabilitation and restoration of open space, land for recreational use, and community
housing that is acquired or created using monies from the fund.
Preference will be given to proposals that:
Preserve or utilize currently owned Town assets;
Preserve the essential character of the Town as described in the Comprehensive Plan;
Are consistent with other current planning documents that have received wide scrutiny and input
and have been adopted by the Town;
Receive endorsement by other municipal boards or departments;
Save resources that would otherwise be threatened;
Benefit a currently under-served population;
Serve more than one CPA purpose (especially in linking open space, recreation and
community housing);
Demonstrate practicality and feasibility to be implemented expeditiously and within budget;
Produce an advantageous cost/benefit value;
Leverage additional public and/or private funds; and
Provide long-term contributions to the Town.
Category Specific Criteria
Open space
proposals that receive preference are those which:
Preserve and/or restore threatened or deteriorating public lands;
Permanently protect important wildlife habitat, and areas containing diverse vegetation, geologic
features, and habitat types, particularly those supporting threatened or endangered species;
Promote connectivity of habitat and protect or enhance wildlife corridors;
Provide opportunities for passive recreation and environmental education;
Provide connections with existing trails or potential trail linkages;
Preserve scenic views and those areas which border a scenic road;
Provide flood control/storage;
Preserve important surface water bodies, including wetlands, vernal pools or riparian zones; and
Preserve priority parcels identified in the Open Space Plan.
4
Historical Resources
proposals that receive preference are those which:
Protect, preserve, enhance, restore and/or rehabilitate historic, cultural, architectural or
archaeological resources of significance, especially those that are threatened, including those
within a Lexington Historic District, on a State or National Historic Register, or eligible for
placement on such registers, or on the Lexington Historical Commission’s Cultural Resources
Inventory;
Protect, preserve, enhance, restore and/or rehabilitate Town-owned properties, features or
resources of historical significance;
Protect, preserve, enhance, restore and/or rehabilitate the historical function of a property or site;
Provide permanent protection for a historic resource;
Support the adaptive reuse of historic properties; and
Demonstrate a public benefit.
Community Housing
proposals that receive preference are those which:
Add affordable units to the Town’s Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI) so as to maintain at least
10% of Lexington’s housing as affordable;
Intermingle affordable and market rate housing at levels that exceed state requirements for
the percentage of affordable units;
Ensure long-term affordability;
Give priority to local residents, Town employees, and employees of local businesses;
Promote use of existing buildings or construction on previously developed or Town-owned sites;
Provide housing that is harmonious in design, scale, setting and materials with the surrounding
community; and
Promote a socioeconomic environment that encourages diversity;
Recreational Resources
proposals that receive preference are those which:
Support multiple active and passive recreation uses;
Serve a significant number of residents;
Expand the range of recreational opportunities to serve Lexington residents of all ages;
Jointly benefit Conservation Commission and Recreation Committee initiatives;
Maximize the utility of land already owned by Lexington; and
Promote the creative use of railway and other corridors to create safe and healthful non-motorized
transportation opportunities.
5
ARTICLE 8 (a)
Project: Archives, Records Management/Conservation, Phase IV
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $150,000
Amount Recommended: $150,000
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
This request for funding represents year 4 of an anticipated 5-year project for conservation and
th
preservation of Lexington’s municipal documents and records dating from the early 18 century
th
through the early 20 century. This request is made for contractual services, equipment, and
archival materials required for the completion of records treatment, microfilming,
information/data migration, indexing, finding aids, and digitization of vital municipal records.
Preserved materials are transferred on an ongoing basis to the main vault at Cary Hall, which
was equipped with climate control, fire protection and moveable shelving under a FY 07 CPC-
funded project. This core facility provides the proper retention, retrieval and permanent archiving
environment for valuable historic information.
Project Goals and Objectives:
The goal of this multi-year project is to properly document Lexington’s history for future
generations and to preserve, conserve and protect its historical documents and materials for
perpetual access through digital media.
Project Benefit:
The project addresses prior neglect of Lexington’s important municipal documents of every era.
Systems have been set in place to protect the large volume of records previously created, to make
this information accessible through digital images, and to provide the proper retention, housing,
and storage for historic and current-day records.
While reorganizing and documenting records to be archived, it is efficient and economic to
complete microfilming, digitization and conservation measures to provide for access,
reference/use and permanent retention. The preservation and conservation of permanent records
for archiving creates the means of documenting Lexington’s history.
Funding Request:
The FY 12 funding request for this project is $150,000.
7
ARTICLE 8 (b)
Project: East Lexington Fire Station Doors Replacement
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $60,000
Amount Recommended: $60,000
CPC Vote: (8-1)
Project Description:
This project is to enlarge the width and height of the East Lexington Fire Station overhead door
openings to improve fire operations and access. There are two overhead doors at this station,
both of which have extremely tight tolerances between the edges of the openings and the fire
trucks. The overall width of mirror support arms and the springs and suspensions on some trucks
have required customization to maintain access through the current door opening size. The first
phase of the project will be to develop a design to enlarge the door openings in a manner that
maintains the historic character of the building and to have this design approved by the Historic
Districts Commission. The second phase of the project will be the actual construction
modifications required to make the enlargements.
Project Goals and Objectives:
The goal of this project is to enlarge the openings for vehicle entry, and thereby decrease the risk
of damage to the building openings and to fire safety vehicles, as well as enable faster response
time to emergencies.
Project Benefit:
The improved Fire Station door openings will provide for safer and more efficient use of the
vehicles. This project is meant to improve upon existing conditions and minimize risks of
damage, while maintaining operations and access.
Funding Request:
The FY 12 funding request for the total project is $60,000. Up to $10,000 will be used for
engineering the structural requirements to enlarge the openings, and for architectural design
services to provide a historically acceptable design and construction details. The remaining funds
will be dedicated to construction.
8
ARTICLE 8 (c)
Project: Leary Property Planning Funds
CPA Category: Community Housing
Amount Requested: $30,000
Amount Recommended: $30,000
CPC Vote: (6-2-1)
Project Description:
The Leary property at 116 Vine Street was acquired by the Town with CPA funds in 2009 for
conservation and affordable housing purposes. The Leary Property Community Housing Task
Force was created by the Town Manager to recommend a plan for developing community
housing on the 30,022 square foot lot set aside for that use. Task Force members were drawn
from the Selectmen, the Planning Board, the Historical Commission, the Housing Partnership,
the Housing Authority, LexHAB and the Community Preservation Committee.
The Task Force has met over a six month period, held two meetings with abutters, and has
discussed the site with several development consultants. It has issued a Request for Interest to
obtain additional input from potential developers. The Task Force expects to issue its final
recommendation to the Selectmen, including a recommendation of a developer in the beginning
of July, 2011. For a full review of the group’s work, please review Status Report #1 (dated
March 10, 2011) on the web at www.lexingtonma.gov/planning/116vine.cfm.
To properly complete the Task Force’s site planning mission, it seeks CPA funds to complete
several pre-development activities, including an existing conditions plan, soil and groundwater
sampling, and the delineation of wetlands on the parcel.
Project Goals and Objectives:
The purpose of this project is to complete a pre-development site plan (also referred to as a
development constraints plan), a necessary first step in the land development process regardless
of the entity that eventually constructs and manages the development. Once site constraints such
as topography, wetlands, soils, and significant features are identified, the Task Force can assess
the best options for the development of housing on the parcel.
Project Benefit:
The pre-development site plan is needed to enable the Task Force to make specific and detailed
final recommendations for affordable housing that will best fit the site and neighborhood.
Funding Request:
The FY 12 funding request for this project is $30,000.
9
ARTICLE 8 (d)
Project: LexHAB Set-Aside for Housing Acquisition
CPA Category: Community Housing
Amount Requested: $450,000
Amount Recommended: $450,000
CPC Vote: (8-1)
Project Description:
This request is made by LexHAB for $450,000 in set-aside funds for the acquisition and/or
creation of affordable housing units in Lexington as opportunities arise, rather than seeking
funding after a property has already been identified. The units which LexHAB acquires or builds
will be subject to specific standards (listed on the following page) agreed upon among LexHAB,
the CPC and the Board of Selectmen. The units will receive affordable housing deed restrictions,
and will become part of the Town’s Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI).
Project Goals and Objectives:
The goal of this project is to streamline the process by which LexHAB acquires and creates
affordable housing units and receives State approval for them.
Project Benefit:
At present, LexHAB identifies a property, makes a downpayment and obtains a mortgage from a
bank to purchase the unit. LexHAB then applies to the CPC in November for an appropriation to
retire the mortgage, and waits until spring Town Meeting for approval of the funding. If
approved, the funding becomes available July 1, but by this time, LexHAB may have been
“carrying” the property for several months. The average time between borrowing the funds and
completing the purchase is ten months, and the average mortgage interest accrued during this lag
time is $16,000. In addition, since tenants cannot move in until the deed restrictions are approved
and recorded, there is typically $4,000 lost in rental income to LexHAB (average rent being $400
per month). The existing process, with its two closings, results in higher than necessary legal fees
as well.
By being granted “up-front” CPA funding, LexHAB will be able to move promptly to purchase
properties and avoid costly and duplicative closings and legal fees.It will be able to bring
affordable units “online” in a cost-effective and timely manner and make them available as
quickly as possible to the long list of applicants waiting for affordable housing in Lexington.
Funding Request:
The FY 12 funding request for this project is $450,000. Funds which are not expended in a given
year may be carried over and used for affordable housing acquisitions the following year.
10
ARTICLE 8 (d)
(con’t.)
Guidelines for the Use of CPA Funding by LexHAB
The following are guidelines agreed upon by the Community Preservation Committee, LexHAB and the
Board of Selectmen for the acquisition of affordable units with Town CPA funds.
1.)All units purchased with CPA funds shall be submitted for inclusion on the Subsidized Housing
Inventory (SHI).
2.)Each acquisition shall increase the affordable housing stock. Monies shall be spent only on
acquisition or rehabilitation of a unit that results in an addition to the pool of affordable units.
3.)Units to be purchased shall be one or two family (single, duplex or
condominium unit).
4.)The size of the units may be up to 1,500 square feet of habitable space.
5.)If LexHAB builds the unit, the size may be 3 bedrooms, expandable to 4.
6.)LexHAB shall try to purchase dwellings on public bus routes, including Lexpress Routes.
7.)Total CPA funds expended for a unit of housing, including legal and professional services,
whether built new on purchased land or purchased and renovated, shall not exceed $525,000.
8.)Efforts shall be made to maximize energy efficiency in each unit.
9.)As a general policy, CPA funds shall not be expended for the demolition of any houses listed or
pending listing on the Cultural Resources Inventory.
10.)When LexHAB identifies a housing unit or land for acquisition, it shall submit a proposal to the
CPC and the Capital Expenditures Committee forcomment prior to submittal to the Board of
Selectmen. Approval by the Board of Selectmen is required for any LexHAB purchase of a unit
or of land.
11.)CPA funds appropriated to LexHAB by Town Meeting shall be identified in a specific MUNIS
account. Expenditures against the account shall be submitted to the Town Manager, with a copy
to the CPC Administrative Assistant.
12.)Funds remaining in the LexHAB account may be carried over from year to year for subsequent
acquisitions of affordable housing units.
(Approved February 17, 2011)
11
ARTICLE 8 (e)
Project: Battle Green Monument Restoration
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $50,000
Amount Recommended: $50,000
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
The Battle Green area is one of the most highly visible and historically significant areas in
Lexington. The historic monuments in and around the Battle Green are an important part of the
history of Lexington and of the nation. These monuments are beginning to show signs of wear;
cracks are beginning to appear, there is water damage and discoloration, and in some areas,
wording on the monuments has worn off. This project is proposed by the Department of Public
Works so that each monument can be inspected and the necessary repair and restoration work
can be undertaken. The primary monuments to be restored are the Obelisk, Minuteman Statue,
Minuteman Monument and the Common flagpole. A conservator will be hired to assist and
th
oversee the project. This work will be completed in preparation for the Town’s 300 year
celebration in 2013.
Project Goals and Objectives:
Properly inspect and assess the condition of each monument,
Prescribe the proper treatment of each monument,
Repair and restore the monuments so they will be stable and aesthetically pleasing,
Conduct work compatible with the Battle Green Master Plan.
Project Benefit:
Lexington's history needs to be preserved for the present and for the future. The area in and
around the Battle Green is important both to the residents of Lexington and to the citizens of the
United States. Failure to address the needed repairs will result in the continued deterioration of
the monuments which will impact the residents and tourism in Lexington. This project will
rehabilitate and repair existing monuments in the Town Center, restoring their structural integrity
and proper finish in preparation for the Town's 300th year celebration in 2013.
Funding Request:
This FY 12 funding request for this project is $50,000.
12
ARTICLE 8 (f)
Project: Battle Green Master Plan Implementation, Phase I
CPA Category: Historic Resources
Amount Requested: $50,000
Amount Recommended: $50,000
CPC Vote: (8-1)
Project Description:
This request by the Tourism Committee is for $50,000 for the first phase in a recommended three-year
implementation program for improvements proposed in the Battle Green Area Master Plan.
Specifically, CPA funds will be used to improve path material and restore edges at the base of several
of the monuments in the Battle Green Area, repair damaged fencing surrounding some of the
monuments, and, contingent upon Selectmen approval, allow for the restoration of the Hayes
Memorial Fountain. This project will be coordinated with the project submitted by the Department of
Public Works to restore monuments in the Battle Green Area.
Project Goals and Objectives:
The 2010 Town Meeting authorized $25,000 of CPA funds to hire a consultant to prepare a Master
Plan for the Battle Green Area. Several drafts of the Master Plan were prepared, and a final Plan was
conditionally approved, by the Selectmen in March, 2011. The Plan defined the boundaries of the
Battle Green Area to include the Battle Green, Belfry Hill, Ye Olde Burying Ground, Buckman
Tavern and the Lexington Visitor Center. The Plan made recommendations for site improvements and
management of the Battle Green Area, including conserving monuments and statues, and establishing
unified design standards for paths, vegetation, benches, trash receptacles, signs, interpretive panels,
lighting and other site furnishings. The goal of this request is to begin to address these
recommendations.
Project Benefit:
The Battle Green is a nationally significant landmark which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to
Lexington each year, the fourth most popular tourist destination in Massachusetts after Boston,
Cambridge and Salem. The Battle Green is also the Town common for the citizens of Lexington.
Improvements proposed for the Battle Green Area will enhance both visitor and citizen appreciation
and will encourage proper use of this highly significant area. This first-year funding request is being
th
submitted so that improvements can be made prior to the commencement of the Town’s 300
anniversary celebration in 2013.
Funding Request:
The FY 12 funding request for this project is $50,000 which represents a portion of the first phase of
Battle Green Area improvements. Subsequent implementing steps will proceed at the discretion of the
Selectmen with the help of an advisory committee to be appointed by them. Total cost for the Battle
Green Area improvements recommended in the Master Plan is estimated at approximately $921,000.
Phase 2, which includes a pedestrian, traffic and parking study and additional path improvements, is
estimated at $221,000. Phase 3, which includes implementation of the recommendations of the traffic
study, improvement of site furnishings, implementation of planting recommendations and
improvement of landscape conditions on Belfry Hill, is estimated at $600,000. Opportunities are
available for matching grants for this work through State, Federal and private funding sources. Future
requests for CPA funding will be determined as part of a comprehensive funding program which takes
these potential sources of revenue into account.
13
ARTICLE 8 (g)
Project: Center Playfields Drainage Implementation - Phase II
CPA Category: Recreational Resources
Amount Requested: $911,863
Amount Recommended: $911,863
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description:
This project is Phase II of a three-phase plan to improve drainage at the Center Playfields. The
project consists of implementing the drainage mitigation solutions (surface drainage, sub-surface
drainage, grade changes, swales, etc.) as outlined by Stantec in its engineering report of October,
2009. Phase I was approved in 2010 for a total cost of $875,173; Phase III is anticipated to cost
an additional $605,718.
The Center Playfields host a number of youth, adult, recreation and school activities including
football, baseball, softball, soccer, tennis and track (both active for sports and passive for
numerous walkers of all ages). In addition, there is a playground structure, a skate park and a
basketball court. The site also hosts the annual Lions Club Carnival. Unfortunately, this
recreation site was constructed on a peat marsh, which is very poorly drained and holds water for
extended periods. It is a normal occurrence for the grass field areas and the playground to have
standing water after storm events. This creates unsafe playing conditions and leads to a
deterioration of the turf, which in turn is costly to repair and maintain. Events regularly need to
be cancelled or delayed and use of the site can become very limited.
Project Goals and Objectives:
Correct the surface and sub-surface drainage issues at the Center Playfields,
Bring the fields areas into a more safe and playable condition,
Install drainage systems that keep surface runoff away from the fields and play areas,
Install drainage systems that move water more quickly off the fields and play areas,
Provide safe, quality turf and play spaces for all participants,
Reduce costly repairs and maintenance by properly draining the turf and play areas.
Project Benefit:
This project is of significant importance to the community. The Center Playfields host Lexington
Little League, Lexington Girl’s Softball, Lexington High School Athletics (tennis, football,
soccer, field hockey, track), the Lexington Blue Sox, Pop Warner Football, adult and youth
tennis programs, and many other youth and adult activities. The mitigation measures proposed
will greatly benefit hundreds of children and adults who use this valuable Town resource. The
Lexington Recreation Committee, the Recreation Department, the School Athletic Department,
Lexington Little League, Lexington Blue Sox, Lexington Babe Ruth and the Department of
Public Works support this project.
Funding Request:
The FY 12 funding request for this project is $911,863.
14
ARTICLE 8 (h)
Project: Muzzey Condominium Assoc. Window Replacement
CPA Category: Historic Resources
MOVE TO INDEFINITELY POSTPONE
Project Description:
Windows at the Muzzey Condominium have deteriorated and are in need of replacement to make
them functional and energy conserving. Because the Muzzey Junior High School building is
deemed historic and is located in a historic district, such replacements must be approved by the
Historic Districts Commission. Residents of the Muzzey Condominium Association sought CPA
funding of $253,915 to cover the difference in cost between standard vinyl replacement windows
and those approved by the HDC, an average differential of almost $2,000 per window.
The CPC was prepared to recommend to Town Meeting that the request be granted in the form
of interest-free loans to the residents of the condominium, to be paid back upon sale of the units.
The Committee considered that although the condominium units do not qualify for the Town’s
Subsidized Housing Inventory, they are subject to a price cap at resale, and the owners originally
qualified for subsidized housing.
However, the Condominium Association ultimately preferred another solution. The Board of
Selectmen has agreed to permit the condominium owners to increase the resale price cap on the
units by the cost of the replacement windows. Accordingly, on March 15, 2011, the
Condominium Association formally withdrew its request for CPA funding, and the CPC will
move for indefinite postponement of this Article.
15
ARTICLE 8 (i)
Project: Vynebrooke Village Drainage Improvements, Phase II
CPA Category: Community Housing
Amount Requested: $364,800
Amount Recommended: $364,800
CPC Vote: (9-0)
Project Description
:
Vynebrooke Village is one of two state-subsidized housing complexes in Lexington managed by
the Lexington Housing Authority. This project is the second phase of the Vynebrooke water
remediation plan. The initial phase, approved by Town Meeting for FY 11, enabled the Housing
Authority to hire an engineer to design a drainage plan for Vynebrooke Village. The plan has
been completed and has been presented to the Conservation Department, Town Engineer, Capital
Expenditures Committee and Board of Selectmen for review. It calls for installing a drainage
system in the crawl spaces in each building at Vynebrooke Village to remove water from the
units during periods of peak flow. This system will collect water that infiltrates the buildings’
crawl spaces and will discharge it to a designated retention area. The retention area will hold
water until it dissipates or until it discharges via an overflow pipe to the storm drain system. A
civil engineer and survey company have been working with Karen Mullins of the Conservation
Department and Town Engineer, John Livsey, on this project. The Housing Authority is ready to
move forward with final approval from the Conservation Commission and the Town.
Project Goals and Objectives
:
This project seeks to contain flooding problems inside the Vynebrooke housing units, in the
crawl spaces beneath them, and in adjacent areas, to prevent deterioration and to preserve the
function and stability of the buildings. Currently the areas adjacent to the buildings are saturated
much of the year, especially during the spring or in any rainy period. As State funds are not
currently available to cover needed capital expenditures on these housing units, the Housing
Authority is seeking CPA funding to mitigate these problems.
Project Benefit
:
This project will preserve the physical integrity and continued use of the housing units at
Vynebrooke Village, an important part of the Town’s Subsidized Housing Inventory which
serves seniors and those with disabilities. It will also create a healthier environment for residents
by eliminating mold from developing in crawl spaces under units. In addition, it is anticipated
that the reduction in standing water will reduce mosquito breeding in the areas adjacent to the
units.
Funding Request
:
The FY 12 funding request for this project is $364,800.
16
ARTICLE 8 (j)
Project: Busa Farm Debt Service, Year 2
CPA Category: Not yet determined
Amount Requested: $974,600 ($757,715 in CPA funds, $216,885 from free cash)
Amount Recommended: $974,600
CPC Vote: (7-0)
Project Description:
The 2009 Town Meeting approved the purchase of the Busa Farm for a total of $4,197,000 in
CPA funds. Pursuant to the recommendation of the CPC and the Town finance committees, the
Town has committed to retire this debt in three years. This article seeks Town Meeting approval
for the second year payment on the Busa Farm debt service. The total payment due is $974,600,
but this amount is being offset with $216,885 of general fund unreserved fund balance (free
cash), which is a function of that portion of a bond premium and accrued interest paid to the
Town and attributable to the bond issued in February, 2010 for the acquisition of the Busa
property.
Project Goals and Objectives:
The purpose of this funding request is to meet the Town’s obligation to pay its debt service on
the purchase of the Busa Farm.
Project Benefit:
The Busa Farm was acquired by the Town upon the CPC’s recommendation for one or multiple
uses consistent with the CPA. The Busa Land Use Plan Committee has submitted a report to the
Board of Selectmen to help them determine which of various uses will be implemented there.
Funding Request:
The FY 12 funding request for this Article is $974,600, of which $757,515 will come from CPA
funds and $216,885 from free cash.
17
ARTICLE 8 (k)
Project: Cotton Farm Debt Service, Year 2
CPA Category: Open Space
Amount Requested: $1,300,604
Amount Recommended: $1,300,604
CPC Vote: (7-0)
Project Description:
The 2010 Annual Town Meeting approved the purchase of the Cotton Farm property for a total
of $3,857,000 in CPA funds. Pursuant to the recommendation of the CPC and the Town finance
committees, the Town has committed to retire this debt in three years. This debt service amount
of $1,300,604 represents the principal and interest on a bond anticipation note to finance a
portion of the acquisition costs of the Cotton Farm property. In the fall of 2010, an initial
payment of $1.5 million was made on the total acquisition cost of $3.8 million. The next
payment, anticipated at $1.3 million, was discounted by the seller to $1,297,400 to offset
financing costs to be borne by the Town that were not originally contemplated. On February 16,
2011, the Town took competitive bids for a note in the amount of $1,297,400. The interest on the
note is 0.70%. That note, plus the amount of interest that will accrue on it, will sum to
$1,300,604. The note will come due on July 1, 2011. The amount of $1,300,604 in CPA funds is
being requested to retire the note in full when it comes due. Notwithstanding the request that
Town Meeting appropriate this amount for debt service, it is anticipated that a $500,000 LAND
(Local Acquisitions for Natural Diversity) grant from the State to underwrite the purchase of the
property will be applied to retire the note. If the grant is received timely, it will result in
$500,000 of the requested appropriation of CPA funds not being used, in which case the unused
balance of the appropriation will be returned to the CPA fund. The final payment of $1,000,000
for acquisition of the property will be made in August, 2012. The 2012 Annual Town Meeting
will be asked to appropriate CPA funds for this purpose.
Project Goals and Objectives:
The purpose of this funding request is to meet the Town’s obligation to pay its debt service on
the purchase of the Cotton Farm property.
Project Benefit:
The Cotton Farm property was acquired by the Town, upon the CPC’s recommendation, for
conservation land. It links substantial areas of open space in the Town and is open to passive
recreation.
Funding Request:
The FY 12 funding request for this Article is $1,300,604. This amount will be partially offset
with $500,000 in State LAND grant funds.
18
ARTICLE 8 (l)
Project: Administrative Expenses
CPA Category: Administrative
Amount Requested: $150,000
Amount Recommended: $150,000
CPC Vote: (7-0)
Project Description:
The Community Preservation Act permits up to 5% of annual CPA funds to be spent on the
operation and administrative costs of the Community Preservation Committee. The Committee is
allowed to use this money to pay for staff salaries, mailings, public notices, overhead, legal fees,
membership dues, and other miscellaneous expenses related to CPA projects. Five percent of
anticipated FY 12 revenue from the surcharge and the State match, is $208,300. However, the
CPC is only requesting an appropriation of $150,000 for FY 12. This money will be used to fund
a part-time Administrative Assistant, to pay membership dues to the non-profit Community
Preservation Coalition, to cover administrative expenses, to cover legal and miscellaneous
expenses related to CPA-sponsored projects, and to pay for land planning and legal fees for open
space proposed to be acquired using Community Preservation Funds.
The CPC’s part-time Administrative Assistant tracks and monitors all Town Meeting approved
CPA projects; monitors draw-downs and financial transactions in conjunction with the Finance
Office; reviews agreements; drafts and updates CPA reports and correspondence; oversees the
annual CPA project application process; posts meetings and schedules public hearings; takes
minutes of the CPC public meetings and hearings; works with numerous departments,
communicates with project applicants; and assists the CPC and others, as needed, with all CPA
related activities and agreements. The three-day a week salary cost for the administrative
position totals $40,706, including benefits.
Membership dues of $7,500 are paid to the Community Preservation Coalition
(www.communitypreservation.org.) A non-profit statewide organization, it responds to legal and
technical questions, provides CPA news and information to participating communities, and
engages in legislative advocacy and lobbying. The Coalition is currently working in support of a
bill pending in the State Legislature which provides, among other proposed changes, for State
matching funds to be fixed at 75% of surcharge funds collected by municipalities.
The CPC has designated $50,000 of its administrative budget for the planning, conceptual plan
development, legal, survey and appraisal work associated with the acquisition of open space.
Such funds enable the Town Conservation Department to complete in a timely fashion the due
diligence required to prepare for a land acquisition.
Funding Request:
The FY 12 funding request for CPC administrative costs is $150,000. Funds appropriated for
administrative expenses but not spent in a given fiscal year revert to the CPA Undesignated Fund
Balance at year’s end.
19
Status Report on FY 2011 CPA Projects
Minuteman Bikeway Preservation
At the Annual Town Meeting in 2010, voters appropriated $320,000 for preservation of the
Minuteman Bikeway. The Town’s Engineering Division has hired GCG Associates to survey
and design the preservation. Design plans for this work were received in early February and
permitting will begin shortly. It is anticipated that the project will be bid in the early spring,
construction will commence in late spring, and the project will be complete by the end of the
construction season.
Old Reservoir Project Stormwater Mitigation
Funding for Phase 2 of this project in the amount of $190,047 was approved at the 2010 Annual
Town Meeting. Phase 2 addresses the water quality from runoff in the southwest corner of the
Old Reservoir. This work will be combined with the proposed Phase 1 work which addresses
three outfalls along Marrett Road. The Louis Berger Group is currently developing plans and
specifications and working with MA DEP, the Army Corps of Engineers and EPA to secure the
proper permits for this work. It is anticipated that the project (both phases) will be ready for bid
in the summer/fall of 2011.
Center Playfields Drainage Phase 1
This project was approved for $875,173 at the 2010 Annual Town Meeting to address the
drainage issues at the baseball and softball field areas along Worthen Road. The project will
consist of re-grading the area, installing subsurface drainage structures and restoration work.
Bids were due on March 10, 2011 with anticipated commencement of construction in mid
August, 2011.
Greeley Village Siding Replacement
This project was funded at the 2010 Annual Town Meeting for $386,129. It is presently at the
50% design stage and the Housing Authority (LHA) expects to receive 100% design plans by
th
April 15. After LHA review, the job will be put out to public bid, with work expected to be
completed in the summer of 2011.
Vynebrooke Village Drainage Study
Funded at the Annual Town Meeting in 2010 for $10,000, this project is well underway. The
Housing Authority has hired an engineer for the project, who has developed a drainage plan for
the Village. The plan has been presented to the Conservation Department, Town Engineer and
20
Board of Selectmen for review. The plan outlines the installation of a drainage system in the
crawl spaces in each building at Vynebrooke Village to remove water from the units during
periods of peak flow. The Housing Authority has a pending application before the CPC, which if
favorably voted on at the 2011 Annual Town Meeting, will grant $364,800 for the construction
phase of this project.
LexHAB Purchase of Two Properties
Voters at the Annual 2010 Town meeting approved $695,000 for the purchase of two properties:
142 Emerson Gardens and 454 Marrett Road. These properties have been purchased by the
Town, and the Department of Housing and Community Development has recently approved the
deed restrictions and associated paperwork, enabling them to be rented. Tenants for the units will
be selected by lottery to ensure their qualifications for and addition to the Town’s Subsidized
Housing List (the so-called 40B list).
Archives and Records Management/Records Conservation
This project was approved for $150,000 in CPA funding at March Town Meeting in 2010. It
represents year 3 in an ongoing five-year historic preservation project. Preservation,
conservation, microfilming and digitization of Town record books is ongoing, as well as vital
records, Selectmen records, books of license, perambulation, annual Town reports, and Historic
Districts Commission records of historical importance. Additional Assessors records of tax and
valuations from the 1700s and 1800s and Overseers of the Poor records are due to be treated,
filmed and digitized. Digitization and migration to Laserfiche, with related expenses, is
underway and will continue through the completion of the project.
Cary Library Preservation Project
The 2010 Annual Town Meeting appropriated $100,000 to renovate an existing storage space in
the Cary Library into a climate-controlled room with fire suppression, in order to preserve
historic library archives. Preliminary evaluation has begun on equipment requirements. Program
requirements will be confirmed with new Library Director, Koren Stembridge, after which
design development will begin. Construction is planned for late summer of 2011.
Cary Memorial Building – Improvements/Upgrades Study
The Cary Memorial Building improvement study was funded through a $60,000 appropriation of
2010 Annual Town Meeting. The study will evaluate the Cary Memorial Building and make
recommendations to: (1) enhance the current uses of the building, (2) bring it into compliance
with relevant codes, and (3) update the building’s systems to current standards and efficiencies.
The firm of Mills Whittaker Architects is under contract to conduct the study, with an anticipated
21
spring 2011 completion date. The recommendations will be reviewed and prioritized for future
capital plans.
Cary Memorial Building Signage
The Cary Hall signage project is being coordinated with the Cary Hall Improvements Study. The
final report for the latter will be delivered in March, after which the sign strategy will be
developed. It is important that the sign project follow guidelines and recommendations outlined
in the Improvements Study. In the meantime, the Cary Hall Sign Team has provided the
consultant with a preliminary concept for interior signs based on physical features and historic
context of the Cary Memorial Building.
Municipal Building Envelope
The 2010 Annual Town Meeting appropriated $73,000 to implement extraordinary repairs to the
Cary Memorial Building and the Town Office Building. A contract was awarded to construct and
install the Cary Memorial Building fan ornaments. The fan ornaments have been installed on the
façade of the building, but final painting has not yet been completed. The three copper valleys
for the Town Office Building slate roof are scheduled to be installed during the summer of 2011.
It also has been determined that the 1,350 square feet of built up roof at Cary Memorial Building
is not required at this time. The CPA funds associated with this roof work will be returned upon
completion of the project.
Town Office Building Renovation
2010 Annual Town meeting supported the continuation of the Town Office Building Renovation
with an authorization of $1,825,000 ($1,185,000 in CPA funds). The project includes
accessibility improvements at all entrances, accessibility improvements at restrooms and
transaction counters, extension of the fire suppression system into the 1971 portion of the
building, and realignment of departments to increase efficiency. General bids were received for
this project within the budget and funding limits established. Phase 1 of the project is underway,
with Town departments having been relocated to the Cary Memorial Building and renovation
work commencing in the former Finance and Recreation offices.
Cary Memorial Building/TOB HVAC
The 2010 Annual Town Meeting appropriated $35,000 to upgrade the HVAC controls in the
Cary Memorial Building and Town Office Building to accommodate zone controls, night
setback, and better energy utilization of the shared chiller and boilers. Phase 1 of the project is
75% complete, with a controls package upgrade in process that will result in annual energy
savings valued at $13,471. The contract for this work is $25,471 after deducting rebates totaling
more than $19,000 received from NSTAR and NGRID.
22
Police Station Ventilation System
The 2010 Annual Town Meeting appropriated $31,700 to replace the Police Station lower level
ventilation unit with a higher-rated fan and motor and air conditioning to control conditions and
deliver required ventilation. The project is currently in the later stages of design development
and is expected to be completed in spring/summer of 2011.
Muzzey Senior Center Improvement Study
2010 Annual Town Meeting authorized a $45,100 appropriation to develop improvements to the
Muzzey Senior Center in the former Muzzey High School building. The architectural firm of
Bargmann Hendrie + Archetype is continuing their design for improvements to the Center and is
working with Facilities and Senior Center staff. Design work and project estimates are expected
to generate prioritized requests for the 2012 Annual Town Meeting.
White House Historic Structure Report
Annual 2010 Town Meeting authorized $18,000 to complete a Historic Structure Report for the
White House building. The architectural firm of Bargmann Hendrie + Archetype was hired
through the designer selection process. The report has been completed and is available at
http://ci.lexington.ma.us/dpf/hosmerhouse.cfm. This project is now considered complete.
Stone Building Exterior Stabilization
$202,933 was appropriated at the 2010 Annual Town Meeting to fund exterior stabilization of
the building envelope at the historic Stone Building. The scope of work has been publically bid
and a contract has been awarded. Construction is expected to commence in the spring and be
completed by July, 2011.
Munroe Tavern Capital Improvements
This $820,000 project (funded with $400,000 in CPA funds) is ongoing and as of March, 2011 is
60% complete. Key elements of the restoration and renovation include:
complete handicapped accessibility, including to the second floor;
restoration and repair of historic fabric in the preserved portions of the building;
completely new systems throughout - climate control, wiring , sprinkler systems;
new reception room for visitors, including an accessible public restroom;
re-roofing with period appropriate materials.
Completion is now scheduled for mid-May, with the following items to be completed:
23
interior and exterior finish work (flooring, plastering, clapboarding, painting);
roofing;
sprinkler system testing;
landscaping, including wheelchair accessible paths.
Comprehensive Cultural Resources Survey of Lexington
The 2010 Annual Town Meeting approved a supplementary grant of $5,300 in CPA funds for
this project. These funds were combined with the remaining FY 2008 CPA funds ($4,875) and a
grant from the Massachusetts Historical Commission ($15,000), enabling the Town to hire a
consultant to research and document the Mid-Century Modern movement of architecture in
Lexington. The Peacock Farm neighborhood and a limited number of individual homes will be
documented and nominated for the National Register of Historic Places, with the possibility of
later supplementation with other Modernist neighborhoods and homes. In all cases, neighbor-
hoods and individual houses will only be included in this survey with the consent of the
homeowners. This project is expected to be complete by June 30, 2011.
Battle Green Master Plan
The 2010 Annual Town Meeting approved a request by the Tourism Committee for $25,000 to
hire a consultant, Lucinda Brockway of Past Designs, LLC, to prepare a Master Plan for
Lexington’s historic Battle Green. In March, 2011, the Board of Selectmen approved the Plan,
subject to their authority to amend and their discretion regarding implementation actions. The
Plan defines the boundaries of the Battle Green Area to include the Battle Green, Belfry Hill, Ye
Olde Burying Ground, Buckman Tavern and the Lexington Visitor Center. It outlines
recommendations for site improvements and management of the Battle Green Area, including
improvements to paths, interpretive panels, vegetation, traffic flow, signage, lighting and the
conservation of monuments. The 2011 Town Meeting is requested to approve $50,000 in CPA
funds to begin implementing actions, including improvements to pathways around the Battle
Green monuments, and repairs to existing fencing. The Tourism Committee has indicated that it
will make subsequent applications for CPA funding for FY 2013 and FY 2014.
Cotton Farm Land Acquisition
At the 2010 Annual Town Meeting, Town Meeting approved $3,857,000 for the purchase of the
western 4.2 acre portion of the Cotton Farm parcel including associated costs related to site
surveys and assessments, legal work, and land management. Due to extensive legal work
associated with this purchase, Town Meeting, in the fall of 2010, approved a supplemental
$49,000 appropriation to cover legal services for this acquisition. The Town closed on the Cotton
Farm parcel on January 6, 2011 and now officially owns the land for conservation purposes.
Prior to closing, the Conservation Commission applied for and was awarded a $500,000 Local
Acquisitions for Natural Diversity Grant (LAND), (formerly Self-Help), through the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs,
24
Division of Conservation Services (DCS). The Conservation Commission is currently in the
process of meeting all the terms and conditions to receive the $500,000 grant reimbursement
before the June 1, 2011 deadline. This includes obtaining Town Meeting’s vote at the 2011
Annual Town Meeting which will authorize the acquisition of the property under the LAND
grant program, installing LAND grant signage, constructing parking spaces, and preparing a
Baseline Documentation Report and Land Management Plan for DCS approval.
25
Status Report on FY 2010 CPA Projects
Storm Water Mitigation at the Old Reservoir and Marrett Road
At Town Meeting in 2008, $55,000 was approved for the reconstruction of the gate control
structure, and the dredging of the large existing retention basin at the Old Reservoir. The
reconstruction work, which was the first part of this project, has been completed. The second
part, the dredging work, was delayed and will be undertaken with $569,000 in Phase I
stormwater mitigation funds approved at Annual Town Meeting for FY 2010 and $190,047 in
funding for FY 2011 (Phase II). The Louis Berger Group is currently developing plans and
specifications and working with MA DEP, the Army Corps of Engineers and EPA to secure the
proper permits for this work. It is anticipated that the project (both phases) will be ready for bid
in the summer/fall of 2011.
Pond Drainage Improvements to Pine Meadows Golf Course
At the Annual Town Meeting in 2009, voters appropriated $200,000 for the remediation of
drainage issues at the Pine Meadows Golf Course. As the first step in this project, the Town’s
Engineering Division issued an RFP for qualified engineers to develop engineering plans and
specifications for the pond/drainage improvements. A contract was awarded to Hoyle, Tanner
and Associates, Inc. for this work, for $35,500. The design work has been completed and the
project has recently been bid, and a contract awarded. It is anticipated that construction will
commence in the early spring and take approximately two months to complete.
Archives and Records Management/Records Conservation
This project was approved for $150,000 in CPA funding by Town Meeting voters in 2009. The
first phase of document digitization is nearing completion along with this year’s treatment of a
large number of Assessors’ volumes, Street Acceptances/Locations, Overseers of the Poor and
Records of the Selectmen. Existing balances in this account will be applied toward this and
subsequent digitization phases of treated documents and materials.
Town Office Building Renovation
The 2009 Annual Town Meeting appropriated $30,000 to supplement the $80,000 approved at
2008 Annual Town Meeting for the design phase of the Town Office Building project. Under the
initial appropriation in 2008, the architectural firm of Bargmann Hendrie + Archetype (BH+A)
was hired to prepare the study and design construction drawings for the Town Office Building
renovation. This project is now in the construction phase, and all funds have been exhausted
from this appropriation. This project is now considered complete.
26
Police Station Space Needs Study
A space needs study of the Police Station was authorized by Annual Town Meeting in 2009 for
$45,000. A contract for professional architectural services was awarded to the architectural firm
of Donham & Sweeney Architects in February of 2010. Their completed study was received in
February, 2011, and includes: (1) a program of space needs, (2) building and site conditions
assessment and systems evaluations, (3) historical evaluations and criteria, (4) a report on the
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) opportunities with selected building
design, (5) schematic design options, (6) design review, (7) recommended schematic design, (8)
projected construction costs and project budget, and (9) a projected project schedule, all intended
to make the building functional for its intended use. It is likely that when a preferred design is
selected, CPA funds will be sought for any appropriate renovation/preservation costs.
Fire Headquarters Renovation and Redesign
In 2008, Annual Town Meeting authorized $40,000 to perform a study on the needs of the main
Fire Headquarters, again intended to make the building functional for its intended use. This
initial study has resulted in three options: (1) selective renovations costing $3.3M,
(2) the construction of an addition plus renovations costing $8.1M, and (3) the construction of a
new fire station costing $10.2M. During public review of the options, it was determined that
additional details were needed in order to make an informed decision. The 2009 Annual Town
Meeting funded additional work in the schematic phase to conduct a more detailed evaluation of
the three options and to allow for more public discussion and input on the various attributes of
the plans. This 2009 appropriation totaled $100,000, with $70,300 funded from the General Fund
and $29,700 from CPA funds (for the historic portion of the project). Donham & Sweeney
Architects was hired to complete the additional design work, and submitted their final report to
the Town in February, 2011. Their recommendations will now be considered by the Selectmen
and the Town.
Greeley Village Roof Replacement
At Annual Town Meeting in 2009, the Town approved $320,828 for the replacement of 40-year
old roofs on all 100 units of affordable housing at Greeley Village Apartments. The roofs were
replaced with LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) shingles in order to
conserve energy costs and stop water leakage. The job was awarded to Corolla Construction for
the full $320,828 and has been completed.
Munroe Tavern Historic Structure Report
This $50,000 study was conducted in 2009-2010 and included a complete review of the
architectural and human history of the house, an assessment of existing conditions throughout,
and construction plans and specifications for the renovation and restoration of the structure. It
27
was completed in the spring of 2010 and provided the foundation for the present 2010-2011
restoration project, which is funded in part with CPA funds.
Purchase of Three Properties by LexHAB
At Town Meeting in 2009, voters approved $845,000 to support LexHAB with its acquisition of
four affordable housing units (three properties) for which the Town received affordable housing
deed restrictions. The affordable housing restrictions are real property interests which the Town
acquired in consideration for its appropriation of the CPA funds, and as an express requirement
of section 12(a) of the CPA statute. The units were: 300 Woburn Street (new construction, aided
by students from Minuteman Career and Technical High School), 104 Emerson Gardens and
1001-1003 Massachusetts Avenue.
These units have now been occupied, with selection for occupancy conducted on a lottery basis
to ensure their qualifications for and addition to the Town’s Subsidized Housing List (the so-
called 40B list). This project is now complete.
Purchase of the Leary Parcel off Vine Street
The 2009 Annual Town Meeting voted $2,763,100 in CPA funding for the purchase of this
14.2-acre parcel off Vine Street and its associated appraisal, surveying, site assessment, legal,
land management, and historic structure evaluation costs. Per the authorization to purchase, the
14.2-acre lot was divided into two lots, a 13.49-acre lot for conservation purposes and a 30,022
square foot lot for affordable housing. The Town closed on the two parcels on August 11, 2009.
The Leary Property Community Housing Task Force was created on July 12th, 2010 to
recommend to the Selectmen a plan for developing community housing on the property. Task
Force members were drawn from the Selectmen, the Planning Board, the Historical Commission,
the Housing Partnership, the Housing Authority, LexHAB, and the Community Preservation
Committee.
To date the Task Force has met over a dozen times, held two meetings with the abutters, and
discussed the site with several development consultants. The group is issuing a Request for Interest
to solicit additional input from potential developers and expects to issue its final recommendation
for the development of affordable housing to the Selectmen by July 1, 2011. For a full review of
the group’s work, please review Status Report #1 (dated March 10, 2011), on the web at
www.lexingtonma.gov/planning/116vine.cfm.
Monies remain unspent for land management work on the conservation portion of the Leary
property. Land management work is due to include the installation of signage and the preparation
of a land management plan.
28
Purchase of Land off Lowell Street (the Busa property)
In 2009, Special Town Meeting approved $4,197,000 for the purchase of the 7.93 acre Busa
Farm property on Lowell Street for a single use or for multiple uses consistent with the
requirements of the CPA. The Town closed on the Busa property on December 2, 2009. During
the 2010 and 2011 growing season, Busa Farm will continue to be farmed by Dennis Busa, under
a lease agreement with the Town. The Board of Selectmen appointed the Busa Land Use Plan
Committee (BLUPC) to review proposals for uses of the property and to make recommendations
to the Board. BLUPC’s report and recommendations were delivered to the Selectmen on
March 14, 2011 and will be used in their decision-making process for the future use of this land.
This report and the minutes of their meetings can be found on the Town’s website at
http://ci.lexington.ma.us/committees/busalanduse.cfm
Previously Completed Projects, FY 2010:
1.Stone Building Renovation. $180,000
2.Center Playfields Drainage Study. $40,000 and supplemental appropriation of $70,000
29
Status Report on FY 2009 CPA Projects
Survey and Define Affordable Housing Study - LexHAB and Lexington Housing
Partnership
Annual Town Meeting in 2008 voted $25,000 in CPA funds to survey homebuyer assistance
projects in other Massachusetts communities and to develop a Statement of Objectives and
Summary of Program Attributes that would be appropriate for Lexington. A consultant, Karen
Sunnarborg, was hired and has completed and distributed a comprehensive report entitled
“Affordable Homebuyer Assistance Programs – Survey of Other Massachusetts Municipal
Programs”. (A copy of this comprehensive report is available at
www.lexingtonhousingpartnership.org.) The Lexington Housing Partnership, LexHAB and their
consultant have held a series of meetings and forums to discuss the concept of the Program and
to obtain input. A proposed program design and executive summary has been prepared and
specific roles for LexHAB have been discussed. A meeting was held with the Board of
Selectmen and for Town residents at a League of Women Voters First Friday session. The
Selectmen did not support Partnership recommendations when briefed. However, the Partnership
is planning to revisit the matter this year.
Belfry Hill Tree Restoration Project
Annual Town Meeting voted $9,850 in CPA funds to hire a certified arborist and tree service to
remove the infestation of Norway maples located on the north and northwest side of historic
Belfry Hill and replace them with more widely spaced native trees, shrubs and erosion-
controlling plants. This opened up the view between the Belfry Tower, the Town Green and the
Buckman Tavern. In the spring of 2010, the remaining funds of $1,830 were used to purchase
native restoration seed mixes, groundcovers, wild flowers and ferns. These materials were
installed by the Tree Committee and volunteers to forestall reestablishment of invasive species.
This project is now considered complete.
Purchase of Three Condominium Units at Parker Manor
At its Annual Town Meeting in 2008, voters approved $652,800 in CPA funding to support
LexHAB with its acquisition of three affordable housing units for which the Town received
affordable housing deed restrictions. The affordable housing restrictions are real property
interests which the Town acquired in consideration for its appropriation of the CPA funds, and as
an express requirement of section 12(a) of the CPA statute. The units, managed and owned by
LexHAB, have since been rented and occupied by families meeting LexHAB’s affordability
requirements. This project is now considered complete.
30
ADA Accessible Bathrooms and Appropriate Signage at the Town Office Building
In 2008, Annual Town Meeting approved $70,000 in CPA funds for these improvements at the
Town Office Building. An employee signage team worked with a design consultant, Pat Fisher,
to develop a flexible signage system for the Town Office Building that meets ADA/AAB
Accessibility Standards. The news signs for Town Hall were installed in April 2009, completing
this portion of the project. The installation of the ADA bathrooms (approximately $49,000) will
be completed as part of the Town Offices Renovation Project, which was funded in March of
2010 with $1,185,000 of CPA funds and the borrowing of $640,000. Work has commenced on
the Town Office Building, specifically the renovation of the Finance and Recreation offices. The
ADA accessible bathrooms will be completed as parts of Phases 1, 2 and 3 as the various floors
and offices are renovated. Work should be fully complete by the end of 2011.
Previously Completed Projects, FY 2009:
1.Hancock-Clark House Restoration. $600,000
2.Archives and Records Management/Records Conservation. $150,000
3.Reconstruction of the Gatehouse/Pond Dredging at the Old Reservoir. $55,000
4.Window Replacement at Vynebrook Village. $158,686
5.East Lexington Fire Station – Storm Window and Central Air Conditioning. $47,500
6.Replacement of Munroe School Fire Prevention System. $579,550
7.Harrington School Playground. $75,000 and supplemental appropriation of $35,135
8.Acquisition of the Goodwin Parcels. $181,517
9.Town Office Building Use Study and Renovation Design. $80,000
10.Building Upgrades to the Old Harrington School. $330,000
11.Town Office Complex Building Envelope. $95,000
31
Status Report on FY 2008 CPA Projects
Center Playfield Drainage Engineering Study
In 2007, Annual Town Meeting voted $40,000 in CPA funds to hire an engineering firm to
assess the condition of the Center Playfields between Worthen Road and Park Drive and to make
drainage improvement recommendations. Tutela Engineering provided a report to the Town on
January 24, 2009. Their contract was for $36,000, with a contingency of $4,000. After reviewing
th
the report and hearing a presentation by Tutela Engineering at the February 11, 2009 Recreation
Committee meeting, the Committee decided to modify its plans for making drainage
improvements due to the high projected cost of $3,625,000 and the complexity of the Vine
Brook culvert. Therefore, additional analysis and a request for $70,000 in CPA funds at the 2009
Annual Town Meeting was made in order to determine the necessary drainage improvements at
the Center Playfields. The Recreation Committee is awaiting a final submittal from Tutela
Engineering to close this project.
Historic Preservation at Ye Old Burial Ground and Munroe Cemetery
In 2007, Annual Town Meeting voted $367,000 in CPA funds to hire a qualified stone
conservator and a qualified stone preservation contractor to preserve and repair the grave
markers at Ye Old Burial Ground and Munroe Cemeteries. Ivan Myjer, of Building Monument
Conservation, was hired as the stone conservator and project overseer for this project. He also
performed repairs to the tabletop markers at Ye Old Burial Ground. ConservArt LLC was hired
to perform preservation and restoration work at Ye Old Burial Ground, Munroe Cemetery and
Robbins Cemetery. A total of $136,443 has been spent or is encumbered to date.
Based upon reports from Ivan Myjer, a majority of markers and stones at Ye Old Burial Ground,
Munroe Cemetery and Robbins Cemetery have been repaired and restored. Attention will now
turn to the final phase of the project. This will include any final restoration work at these
cemeteries, and the development of a map of each cemetery. This final phase of work will be put
out to bid in the summer of 2011.
Comprehensive Cultural Resources Survey
The 2007 Annual Town Meeting approved a grant of $90,000 to revise and supplement the nine-
volume Comprehensive Cultural Resources Survey (the “Inventory”), which is now on line at
http://historicsurvey.lexingtonma.gov/. As a follow-up to this initial survey, the 2010 Annual
Town Meeting approved a supplementary grant of $5,300 which was combined with the
remaining FY 2008 CPA funds ($4,875) and a grant from the Massachusetts Historical
Commission ($15,000). These combined funds enabled the Town to hire a consultant to research
and document the Mid-Century Modern movement of architecture in Lexington. The Peacock
Farm neighborhood and a limited number of individual homes will be documented and
nominated for the National Register of Historic Places, with the possibility of later
32
supplementation with other Modernist neighborhoods and homes. In all cases, neighborhoods
and individual houses will only be included in this survey with the consent of the homeowners.
This project is expected to be completed by June 30, 2011.
Tourism Signs
At the 2007 Annual Town Meeting, $18,360 was voted for directional and storytelling signage in
Lexington. The directional signage from local highways to the Town's historic sites has been
created and nearly all are installed. The funding for this portion of the project has been fully
expended.
th
One remaining sign is still in progress, the storytelling sign about April 19, 1775, which will be
installed on the Battle Green. A Lexington artist is donating his time to produce drawings for the
sign, and has neared completion. The remaining $6,500 in CPA funds will be used for the final
fabrication of his design and for the installation of the sign.
West Lexington Greenway Corridor
The 2007 Annual Town Meeting voted $125,000 in CPA funds to hire an engineering firm to
create a Master Plan for the entire West Lexington Greenway Corridor with a focus on creating a
new pedestrian and bicycle trail through conservation land by connecting the Minuteman
Bikeway with the Battle Road Trail. The planning and engineering firm Vanasse Hangen
Brustlin, Inc. (VHB) was hired and, to date, VHB has completed a Draft Master Plan and Draft
Preliminary 25% Design Drawings for the proposed Minuteman Bikeway and Battle Road
connector trail. The Final Master Plan and 25% Design Plans are pending incorporation of final
comments from the West Lexington Greenway Task Force by VHB.
Previously Completed Projects, FY 2008:
1.Improved Fire Monitoring/Historic Houses. $18,120
2.Boiler and Oil Tank for Buckman Tavern. $10,685
3.Greeley Village Window Replacement. $228,404
4.Cary Hall Restoration and Rehabilitation. (Assessment of Cary Hall as a performance
center) $147,130
5.Douglas House - Rehabilitation of 7 Oakland Street (Rehabilitation of the former
Minuteman Press Building for affordable housing for brain-injured adults). $300,000
6.Muzzey High Condominium Building Study. $53,500
7.East Lexington Branch Library (Stone Building) - Historic Building Evaluation Report.
$43,000
33
Status Report on FY 2007 CPA Projects
All Projects from FY 2007 have been completed:
1.Main Fire Station/Bedford Street Renovations. $100,000
2.Police Station - Interior Renovations. $100,000
3.Hancock-Clarke House Pre-Restoration Project (Historic Structure Report, Building
Usage Study, Accessibility Evaluation and Construction Specifications). $25,000
4.Lexington Depot - Elevator Project. $44,000
5.Cary Vault Shelving. $60,000
6.Cary Memorial Building Vault Climate Control. $60,000
7.Open Space and Recreation Plan, $20,000
34
CPF ACCOUNT BALANCES
2011 Annual Town Meeting
APPROPRIATED TO DATE
(by category as of 7/01/10)
CATEGORY
Community Housing$4,737,641
Historic Resources$5,922,678
Open Space$6,483,017
Recreational Resources$1,837,811
Pending assignment to proper category
(Busa Property and its related expenses)$4,319,000
$23,300,147
TOTAL
Administrative Expenses$430,000
$23,730,147
TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS TO DATE
AVAILABLE FOR APPROPRIATION FY 2012
At 2011 Annual Town Meeting
UNAPPROPRIATED BALANCES
Community Housing Reserve$3,532
Historic Resources Reserve$416,996
Open Space Reserve$0
Unbudgeted Reserve$0
Undesignated Fund Balance (Reflects
$73,000 appropriation at the Nov. 15,
2010 STM, and set-aside of a projected
$71,000 shortfall of FY11 estimated
revenue.)
$1,697,123
$2,117,651
TOTAL
ESTIMATED REVENUES FY 2012
Property Surcharge$3,307,000
State Match $859,000
Investment Income$33,000
TOTAL$4,199,000
TOTAL ESTIMATED CPF FUNDS
AVAILABLE FOR FY 12$6,316,651
35
FY 2012 COMMITMENTS, PROJECTS
AND ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS
CPA COMMITMENTS
RECOMMENDED
COMMITMENTSREQUESTED
Busa Farm Debt Service (This total will be offset by $216,885
from GF free cash attributable to a premium and accrued
interest when debt was issued in Feb. 2010 for the Busa Farm
acquisition. Net is $757,715.)$974,600
$974,600
Cotton Farm Debt Service (Total includes financing charges.
Town will be reimbursed $500,000 under the State's Local
Acquisition For Nat'l. Diversity (LAND) Grant, which will be
$1,300,604$1,300,604
applied to this payment or reimbursed to CPF.)
TOTAL COMMITMENTS$2,275,204$2,275,204
CPA PROJECTS AND ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS
COMMUNITY HOUSING
Leary Property Planning Funds $30,000 $30,000
LexHAB Set-Aside for Housing Acquisition$450,000 $450,000
Vnebrooke Villae Drainae Imrovements$364,800 $364,800
yggp
Total$844,800 $844,800
HISTORIC RESOURCES
$60,000 $60,000
East Lexington Fire Station Doors Replacement
Battle Green Monument Restoration$50,000 $50,000
Battle Green Master Plan Implementation $50,000 $50,000
$150,000 $150,000
Archives and Records Management/Conservation
Total $310,000$310,000
OPEN SPACE
No open space applications for FY 2012
$0$0
RECREATION
Center Playfields Drainage Implementation - Phase II $911,863$911,863
TOTAL PROJECT COSTS
$2,066,663$2,066,663
ADMINISTRATIVE
Administrative Expenses (including $50,000 for
open space planning)$150,000$150,000
TOTAL PROJECT AND ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS
$2,216,663$2,216,663
SUMMARY
$2,117,651
UNAPPROPRIATED BALANCES
$4,199,000
TOTAL ESTIMATED REVENUE
TOTAL AVAILABLE FOR FY 12$6,316,651
TOTAL COMMITMENTS$2,275,204
PROJECT AND ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS$2,216,663
TOTAL COMMITMENTS, PROJECTS AND ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS$4,491,867
UNUSED BALANCE OF CPF AVAILABLE FOR FY 2013, ASSUMING ALL
RECOMMENDED COMMITMENTS, PROJECTS AND ADMINISTRATIVE
$1,824,784
COSTS ARE APPROVED BY TOWN MEETING
36