HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-11-30-TAC-minTAC Minutes
Meeting Date: November 30, 2005
Attendees: Sara Arnold, Sally Castleman, Elaine Dratch, Bill Levison, Hank Manz, Eric Eid- Reiner,
Francine Stieglitz, Gail Wagner
Response to Ravi Sakhuj a's
Sara emailed Ravi explaining that Lexpress analysis continues. He has not responded. Sara is
developing an Op Ed article for the Minuteman addressing issues raised by Ravi, but with no
specific reference to his published letter. In regard to environmental issues, Bill researched
information, but given the complexities, it is hard to develop a simple response. Data appears to
support a 12% reduction in miles and emissions when equated to the rides provided by Lexpress.
Lexington Health Department will be consulted.
TAC Membership
Appointment of Ravi to TAC remains an ongoing Selectmen's issue. Elaine noted Sam Berman has
expressed an interest. Eric also identified a woman with school -aged children who maybe interested
in joining. Interested members should be invited to upcoming TAC meetings.
FY07 Budget Updates
Upon review by the Town Manger, the Met State /Avalon annual TDM contribution has been
factored into the FY07 budget. With this offset, the tax levy for FY07 is less than in FY06. The
budget narrative notes that parking meter funds were assigned to Lexpress prior to the failed
override in 2003. Annual parking meter funds in the past offset the Lexpress tax levy by
approximately $80,000. Hank will raise the parking meter fund issue with the Selectmen. All
Transportation Services' staff costs are exclusively under the Lexpress budget.
Ridership
November was a banner month; highest since failed override. R/Vmp is 7.6. Any change in service,
such as door -to -door mid -day hours, needs to be planned to coincide with the July pass sales. Bill
analyzed October ridership data.
It was suggested that Lexpress be better promoted through the seasonal Farmers Market. Lexpress is
a link on its homepage and was mentioned in newspaper promotions. It was suggested that a free
ride to and from Depot Square and the Market be initiated next season.
M & L Transit's Fuel Request
Bill Hadley has been consulted. An answer regarding M & L Transit's access to DPW pumps as a
fuel savings measure has yet to be given. It was learned that the Town is not paying increased fuel
costs on any other existing fixed contracts, such as refuse collection. M & L Transit has not raised
the issue in recent weeks.
Baby Safe Haven Ads
Ads displayed on Lexpress were mentioned in the Northwest Globe Briefs. When the Morrisseys
came to deliver the ads, Gail explained that despite individual support for the Baby Safe Haven
campaign that ads posted on Lexpress are considered a business transaction.
Student Parking on Worthen Road
TAC first raised the issue of student parking fees applicable to Worthen Road in 2003. TAC feels
parking fees should be consistent with student bus fares. There is limited student parking on campus
obtained through a lottery system. Lexington student parking fees are low in comparison to several
other comparable suburban communities. A TAC presentation to the Selectmen may spur discussion
with the School Committee.
Next TAC meeting: January 11, 7 pm, Room 111