Beginning Week 3 | Town Meeting

Welcome to the third week of Town Meeting (TM). Town Moderator (TMod) envisions completion of the Warrant by Wednesday night. Of course, that is (somewhat) up to Town Meeting Members (TMMs) so we've been asked to hold Monday, April 22 in the event it's needed, following April public school vacation week.

Voting record of TMMs to date (March 25 & 27; April 1 & 3) is HERE

We start a little earlier tonight, at 7:15, in order to take time to 1) acknowledge awardee/s for the  Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award (a title that is different than in the past and I'm curious to understand differences) and 2) TMMs who have been in TM for 30-years.

Call to Order comes at 7:15 PM by Town Moderator Deborah Brown (TMod)
Welcome to guests.
Recess called for presentation of the Awards

LPS Superintendent Dr Julie Hackett presents Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Awards to 5 students and their teacher. Students directed Petitions signed and delivered to superintendent and other administrators to: Hire more staff and administrators of color; Look at curriculum dealing with electives in African American Literature and others.
(This award has always gone to an LPS educator or staff person; this is the first time students have been acknowledged, I believe!)

Presentation of 30-year Awards by Town Meeting Member Association to three TMMs: Robert Cohen (P4), Jeanne Krieger (P3), Alan Levine (P8). Jeanne Canale acknowledged with thanks for serving as TMMA Chair.

Back in session 7:29 PM
Attendance and announcements 

Article 2: Report of the Community Preservation Committee (CPC)
Received and placed on file by VOICE VOTE (VV)
Marilyn Fenollosa, TMM/P5 and Chair CPC

Meeting is now open on Article 14—Appropriate the FY2020 Community Preservation Committee Operating Budget and CPA Projects (parts c,l,m already acted upon within the Consent Agenda)

MOTION, HERE
Presentation, HERE
VOTING on ITEMS 1,2,3,4 requires a simple majority:
YES: 157
NO: 0
ABSTAIN: 2
MOTION CARRIES

Article 14a -- Conservation Land Acquisition (designated on map 32 as lots 114 and 135)
Presentation on 14a, HERE
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Select Board (SB): Unanimously in support of all parts of this Article
Capital Expenditures Committee (CEC): Except for 14k, Unanimously in support of all other parts
Appropriation Committee (AC): Unanimously in support; on Article 14e:7-2 in support
Qmic: TMM/P4 The parcels -- Why spending money on something that can't be built upon?
Town of Lexington (ToL): It is the only way to get the other parcel
Qmic: TMM/P6: Question on wording of Article
Town Counsel: The choice of the CPC
SB is adding language to the MOTION, at the end: and further authorize the Board of Selectmen to take such land by purchase or eminent domain
No further questions or comments
VOTING on 14a requires 2/3 majority:
YES: 163
NO: 2
ABSTAIN: 1
MOTION CARRIES

14b: Willard's Woods Site Improvements
Presentation on 14b, HERE
ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS:
Commission on Disability: Supports 14b
No Qs
VOTING on 14b requires simple majority:
YES: 163
NO: 1
ABSTAIN: 2
MOTION CARRIES

14d: Phase 3 of the Battle Green Master Plan
No further recommendations
Qmic: Railings for stairs to the Old belfry?
ToL: Looking at rails
No further Qs
VOTING on 14d requires simple majority:
YES: 163
NO: 1
ABSTAIN: 1
MOTION CARRIES

14e: 9 Oakland Street—Renovation and Adaptive ReUse
Presentation on 14e, HERE
No Further RECOMMENDATIONS
NOmic: TMM/P6
Qmic: TMM/P8 Criteria from SB or CPC?
Ms. Fenollosa: We only consider those who request funding; we don't go looking for projects. Support is twofold: preserves early manufacturing from history also benefits those with brain injuries
Qmic: TMM/P7 Who owns?
ToL: Non-profit org
No further Qs
VOTING on 14e requires simple majority:
YES: 147
NO: 12
ABSTAIN: 7 
MOTION CARRIES

14f: Motion that this item be Indefinitely Postponed (IP'd)
MOTION CARRIES by VV

Taking up 14 g, h, i
Presentations are HERE
14g: Old Reservoir Bathhouse Renovation
Qmic: TMM/P8 How making decision to open to public?
ToL: We're discussing; do not anticipate any problems for all members of public to access
Qmic: TMM/P3 When is work to be done?
ToL: Completed summer 2020
Qmic: TMM/P3 So, bathhouse will be available in summer of 2020?
ToL: Bathhouse would be closed summer of 2020
Qmic: TMM/P4 7,000 people use each summer?
ToL: correct
Qmic: TMM/P4 Town Pool complex?
ToL: 65,000-70,000 each season at Town Pool Complex
Qmic: will oppose
Qmic: TMM/P1 How many parking spaces at the Old Rez?
ToL: Currently 3 parking near facility; many more at Bridge School
Qmic: Contemplate more parking spaces for young children and ADA compliance?
ToL: We're currently working on that
Qmic: TMM/P1 is conflicted on this one
YESmic: TMM/P9
Qmic: TMM/P2 Quality of water?
ToL: Old Rez water is tested weekly
YESmic: TMM/P1
YESmic: TMM/P9
Qmic: TMM/P1 Still supporting Summer programs (Teddy Bear Picnic)?
ToL: Program will be at Center Complex; possibly back at Old Rez in 2021
YESmic: TMM/P8
No further Qs
VOTING on 14g requires simple majority:
YES: 153
NO: 10
ABSTAIN: 5
MOTION CARRIES

14h: Park Improvements—Hard Court Resurfacing
Presentation, HERE
VOTING on 14h simple majority:
YES: 170
NO: 0
ABSTAIN: 1
MOTION CARRIES

14i: Park Improvements—Athletic Fields (Diamond Middle School)
presentation HERE
Qmic: TMM/P6 Plan to install natural turf?
ToL: Yes
Qmic: TMM/P9 Exposed manhole cover addressed?
ToL: Yes -- will look at it during the renovation
YESmic: School Committee is in Unanimous support
Qmic: Funds only for Diamond Middle School?
Ms. Fenollosa: Haven't typically listed specific park
Qmic: amend MOTION to indicate: at Diamond Middle School
No further Qs
VOTING ON 14i requires simple majority
YES: 169
NO: 0
ABSTAIN: 2
MOTION CARRIES

14j: Playground Replacement Program—Bridge Elementary School
Presentation, HERE
YESmic: School Committee Unsnimously supports 14j
Qmic: TMM/P1Who installs?
ToL: State Bid Contracts
Qmic: Is there a third party to help install? Removal of parts?
ToL: Removal is part of installation;
No further Qs
VOTING on 14j requires simple majority:
YES: 167
NO: 0
ABSTAIN: 2
MOTION CARRIES

14k: LexHAB Preservation, Rehabilitation, and Restoration of Affordable Housing
(Pat Goddard is back as Executuve Director of LexHAB)
CEC: 5-1 approval
Qmic: TMM/P3 Wants to know status on Busa Farm Affordable Housing
ToL: LexHAB has had to enter into the public bidding process; we're now looking at modular buildings to stay within the funding approved by TM
Qmic: TMM/P3 Wants updates to TM when there are issues
YESmic: TMM/P8
Qmic: TMM/P7 What projects does LexHAB prioritize?
ToL: we think finish Busa
Qmic: When will you finish Vine Street?
ToL: nothing on paper, yet
No further Qs
VOTING on 14k requires simple majority:
YES: 163
NO: 4
ABSTAIN: 2
MOTION CARRIES

Article 2: Report of the ad hoc Crematory Study Committee

Report is received and placed on file by VV

MOTION to take up Article 20g CARRIES by VV
Article 20g: Appropriate for Westview Cemetery Facility Construction

Presentation for Article 20g, is HERE
RECOMMENDATIONS:
SB: 4-1 in support
CEC: Unanimous support
AC: Unanimous support
Qmic: TMM/P5 What is correct appropriation?
ToL: Gone through a series of estimates: $2.6M with contingency $2,8M
Qmic: TMM/P5 How many non-groundskeepers, etc, work there?
Apologies for not capturing all that the speaker said. I did hear 4 FTE + 2 seasonal
Qmic: How many burials each year?
ToL: About 200/yr
Many TMMs lined up at Qmic; 2 TMMs at NOmic
YESmic: Permanent Building Committee
NOmic: TMM/P4
Qmic: TMM/P2 Please clarify increased costs?
ToL: Self funding covers about 97% of costs; debt financing covers bonding over 20 years
NOmic: TMM/P8
Qmic: TMM/P7 How many can fit in the hall (sitting and standing)?
ToL: about 20-25 people
YESmic: TMM/P7
Qmic: TMM/P1 What does the term "by addition ready" mean?
ToL: Original design, cemetery building; added bathrooms, meeting space; Committal; Grieving families
Qmic: TMMP1 So, "by addition ready" means walls, windows, reconstruction, correct?
ToL: Yes
Qmic: TMMP1 Do we know the space necessary for a crematory and is that space sufficient?
ToL: We have a pretty good sense
Qmic: TMMP1 Fully accessible?
ToL: Yes
NOmic: TMM/P8
YESmic: TMM/P3
Qmic: TMM/P2 Have we considered constructing a Columbarium?
ToL: We haven't looked at specifics; understanding is that a Columbarium is a separate structure
NOmic: TMM/P6
YESmic: TMM/P6
Qmic: TMM/P6 Minority of SB?
SB Member Joe Pato: Fundamentally, feel we are designing the wrong building; regional demand. Is it the right location for increased demand? We will know better with the recommendation of the Study Committee a little later in the year
Qmic: TMM/P6 Solar panels on this building?
ToL: Designed to be "solar ready". TBD once appropriation is received
TMM/P7 Calls the Question
Debate on Calling Q PASSES by VV
No further Qs or people standing at mics
VOTE on Article 20g requires 2/3 majority::
YES: 75
NO: 81
ABSTAIN: 7
MOTION FAILS

Article 6: Appropriate for Cremation Facility at Westview Cemetery
REVISED MOTION that this item be Indefinitely Postponed (IP'd)
Presentation, HERE
RECOMMENDATIONS:
SB: Supports IP
CEC: Unanimously supports IP
AC: Supports IP
VOTE to IP Article 6 by VV
MOTION CARRIES

No further action to be taken tonight
MOTION to ADJOURN PASSES by VV
Adjourned until 7:30 PM Wednesday, April 10
10:27 PM

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Image credit: Warrant and various reports produced annually by Town of Lexington Boards, Officials, and Committees ~ mas

Remaining Items for Town Meeting

Will this be the final week of Town Meeting? We shall see! We convene at 7:15 PM Monday, April 8 in Battin Hall of Cary Memorial Building (1605 Massachusetts Avenue). Here's what remains (not necessarily in this order; N.B. DATE CERTAIN items):

• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award Ceremony

• Town Meeting Member Association (TMMA) Presentation of 30-year Awards

• Article 2: Report of the Community Preservation Committee

• DATE CERTAIN Monday, April 8: Article 14—Appropriate the FY2020 Community Preservation Committee Operating Budget and CPA Projects

• DATE CERTAIN Monday, April 8: Article 2—Report of the ad hoc Crematory Study Committee

• DATE CERTAIN Monday, April 8: Article 20g—Appropriate for Westview Cemetery Facility Construction

• DATE CERTAIN Monday, April 8: Article 6—Appropriate for Cremation Facility at Westview Cemetery

• Remaining parts of Article 16: Appropriate for Municipal Capital Projects and Equipment
• Article 16g (removed from Consent Agenda): Sidewalk Improvements
• Article 16h: Hill Street New Sidewalk Project
• Article 16i: Equipment Replacement (DPW)
• Article 16m: Municipal Technology Improvement Program
• Article 16n: Application Implementation
• Article 16o: Network Core Equipment Replacement
• Article 16p: Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations

• Article 20h: Appropriate Design Funds for a Feasibility Study to Improve the Cary Library Children's Room

• Reconsideration of Article 28 (technical correction): Confirm Street Acceptance and Title (Portion of Pelham Road)

• Article 21 (removed from Consent Agenda): Rescind Prior Borrowing Authorizations

• Article 2: Report of the Planning Board

• DATE CERTAIN Wednesday, April 10: Article 38—Amend Zoning Bylaw and Zoning Map, 186 Bedford Street (Owner Petition)

• Reconsideration of Article 39: Amend Zoning Bylaw—Limited Site Plan Review (Citizen Article)

• Article 27: Appropriate for Authorized Capital Improvements

• Any Unfinished Business from previous nights

• Dissolution of 2019 Town Meeting

No meetings during the week Patriots' Day/school vacation week (April 15-19); Monday, April 22, as needed.

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Image credit: Slide from Superintendent Dr. Julie Hackett's FY20 Budget presentation ~ mas

Closing the Second Week | Town Meeting

7:32 PM Call to Order

Town Meeting Member Memorial—Carolyn Tiffany, affectionately known as Kay. Kay was a long-time TMM in Precinct 8 for more than 30 years. A retired Guidance Counselor, more than 20 years in Winchester. Organizer. Activist. Prescient on Climate Change. She died earlier this year. A moment of silence for Kay.

The Meeting is now open on Article 4: Reduce Community Preservation Act Surcharge Rate from 3% to 1% Pursuant to MGL Chapter 44B, §16 (Citizen Article)

MOTION that this item be Indefinitely Postponed (IP'd)
Bridger McGaw, maker of the Article, with a presentation, HERE
Select Board (SB): Unanimously supports IP

Capital Expenditures Committee (CEC)
Appropriation Committee: Does not take a position on items for IP
Community Preservation Committee (CEC): Unanimously supports IP
Planning Board (PB): Unanimously supports IP
TMM/P1: NOmic Will support IP; hopes this is the last we will see of this [trying to reduce the CPC rate]
There are no further questions or comments
VOICE VOTE (VV)
Unanimously PASSES

Town Moderator to Deputy Moderator, Barry Orenstein (TMod to DMod)

The Meeting is now open on Article 15: Appropriate for Recreation Capital Projects

MOTION is HERE
Lisah Rhodes, TMM/P4, and Chair of Recreation Committee with the presentation, HERE
Recreation Committee: Unanimously supports
School Committee (SC): Unaimously supports
AC: Unanimously supports
CEC: Unanimously supports the relevant parts

Q TMM/P2: Fees at Pine Meadows Golf Course?

Town of Lexington (ToL): Yes.

Given that there are user fees, why aren't they used?

ToL: They are, 100%

There are no further comments or questions
VOTE on Article 15: 

YES: 157

NO: 1

ABSTAIN: 5

MOTION CARRIES

DMod back to TMod

SB requests TMod take up Article 27 on Wednesday, April 10
TMod indicates that's what we will do

Article 16: Appropriate for Municipal Capital Projects and Equipment
Revised MOTION is HERE
Parts 16a, 16d, 16j, 16k, 16l have already been acted upon
Taking up 16b, 16c, 16e, 16f, 16g, 16h, 16i, 16m, 16n, 16o, and 16p, ultimately
AC: unanimous on all but 16f--comments on that when it comes up

No questions or comments on 16b or 16c
No VOTE on 16b or 16c yet

On to 16e—presentation is HERE
Planning Board (PB): Unanimously supports 16e
CEC: Favors this MOTION
Citizen's Mic (CitMic): Chamber of Commerce supports
YESmic: TMM/P6
NOmic: TMM/P7
Qmic: TMM/P5: Can this section be broken out?
TMod: We will definitely vote this separately
CitMic: Resident and high school teacher is concerned there will be traffic backups in neighborhoods (citing Waze, Google)
NOmic: TMM/P9 Is concerned that before we vote on such a substantial sum of money, we should reconsider the $2M spending for brick sidewalks
YESmic: TMM/P3
Qmic: TMM/P3: Wants to support this. Is concerned about the ornamental lights. Are there shields from above? LED lights?
ToL: Fully shielded, yes to LEDs
Victoria Buckley, TMM/P9, Chair of Commission on Disability, with an Amendment. [To read: In the MOTION, after the word "construction", adding "as approved by the Commission on Disability"] 
Questions about the AMENDMENT
TMM with a Point of Personal Order: Is this appropriate?
TMod: We will hear from Town Counsel
Town Counsel: To the Q just asked: Yes, it is appropriate. Regarding the enforcability: "Approval" is somewhat problematic because SB has authority of streets and sidewalks, so it would be "Advisory"
SB: Requests a brief recess
We are recessed

Amendment offered by Ms. Buckley

9:00 PM We are back in Session
AMENDMENT to the AMENDMENT reflects the discussion that has just taken place during recess:

Amended Amendment

SB: Unanimously supports
CEC: 4-2 in favor of the Amendment
AC: 1-6 AC does not recommend
PB: no position
Center Committee: does not have a position on it because haven't convened on the AMendment
Qmic: TMM/P6: Is the SB voting to do what the Commission on Disability recommends?
SB: We accept the insertion of the language
NOmic: TMM/P7
Qmic: TMM/P3: What is the charge of the Commission on Disibility?
Town Counsel: Charge as per MGL Ch 40 §8j
TMM/P3 will oppose AMENDMENT and the ARTICLE
YESmic: TMM/P7
Qmic: TMM/P3: If we do not adopt and SB does it anyway. are we open to a law suit (due to bricks)
Town Counsel: I think the answer is NO
YESmic: TMM/P4
YESmic: TMM/P9
TMM/P1 Calls the Question
Vote by VOICE VOTE
Debate on the Amendment is CLOSED
Final comments from Ms. Buckley
YES:  128
NO: 35
ABSTAIN: 2
MOTION to AMEND CARRIES
Debate continues on 16e with the MOTION as AMENDED
Center Committee: Unanimously supports
YESmic: TMM/P1
Qmic: TMM/P6 With regard to the road closure test: what was the impact of the lane loss?
ToL: Counts were set up in surrounding neighborhoods throughout the trial; we saw no impact.
TMM/P6: With a later school start time, how will that impact this project?
ToL: We haven't looked at the delayed start time
NOmic: TMM/P6
Qmic: TMM/P4 More information on the Mass Works Grant? Least/Most to expect?
TMgr: The range is specifically for municipal projects; they are substantial ~ $2M
Qmic: TMM/P4: Care and maintenance of new trees?
ToL: Plan is to give them the proper space and soil in which to grow, coupled with irrigation; after that, they will follow with our regular program
TMM/P4 Are there any provisions for extended drought?
ToL: They will have irrigation, plus supplemental waterings from the watering truck
NOmic: TMM/P3
Qmic: TMM/P4: Why is there no funding for improved signage?
ToL: There is signage within the plan, most of it is street signage
YESmic: TMM/P4
Qmic: TMM/P6 Funding sources. Given that we have small businesses in the center, public/private partnerships?
TMgr: At this point the Town hasn't done anything about looking into pub/priv p'ships
TMM/P6: Talked about planters. Will the curbed planters function as protection?
ToL: We think so
Qmic: TMM/P4 Any peer reviewed lit that compare the slipperyness of brick to concrete?
ToL: Unable to find any reports on the slipperyness of brick; there are different types of brick and concrete, but nothing
TMM/P4: Similarly on maintenance of brick or concrete?
ToL: The ad hoc Working Group asked for the same thing, but we couldn't find anything on this either
TMM/P6 asks what materials experts were heard by the ad hoc WG -- ToL runs through a list of experts from memory, acknowledges his list isn't complete
NOmic: TMM/P5
TMM/P6 Calls the Question
VOTE TO CLOSE DEBATE
YES: 114
NO: 47
ABSTAIN: 4
MOTION CARRIES
No final comments
MOTION to adopt 16e as AMENDED requires 2/3 Majority
YES: 121
NO: 21
ABSTAIN: 4
MOTION CARRIES

On to 16f— presentation is HERE
Assistant Town Manager with brief Financing Plan presentation on the last four pages of presentation above: Enterprise Debt and MWRA Debt; borrowing term of 10 years, 4% interest rate. Three hypothetical scenarios; decisions made during rate-setting process in the fall.
SB: Unanimously supports 16f
CEC: 5-1 in support of 16f
AC: 6-3 in support of 16f
Qmic: TMM/P4 Wants to know if anyone has looked at the cost of ownership over time, as in costs of maintenance?
CEC: Yes
Town of Lex (ToL): Average maintenance ~$20K/year
TMM/P4: Spending $6Million works out to ~500/household. Over what amount of time to cover that cost?
ToL: Not a complete return on investment. Automated meters saves staff time, abatements, at ~$250K/year
Qmic: TMM/P6 Wants to know if people really need to put up antennae on their house
ToL: Not every house; there will only need to be a few and they will not go up on houses
TMM/P6: Confirm that no one will be asked to put an antennae on their house as part of this project
ToL: Yes.
Qmic: TMM/P2: How often can we get a report?
ToL: That's up to you
TMM/P2: Can we get it in real time?
ToL: Not in real time but the next day
What about on leaks?
ToL: Sensitive to 1/10th of a gallon,
A lot of questions from a TMM/P2 having to do with particulars of the network system, radio frequency, on which the system is built
TMM Calls the Question
MOTION to CALL the Q PASSES by VV
Debate closed on 16f
VOTE on 16f requires 2/3 Majority:
YES: 121
NO: 21
ABSTAIN: 8
MOTION CARRIES BY MORE THAN THE 2/3 NECESSARY

Voting on Article 16b and 16c together, which had no questions or debate
VOTE requires 2/3 Majority:
YES: 149
NO: 0
ABSTAIN: 2
MOTION CARRIES BY MORE THAN THE 2/3 NECESSARY

MOTION to ADJOURN until Monday, April 8 at 7:15 PM PASSES on a VV
10:31 PM 
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Image credit: Superintendent Dr. Julie Hackett presenting her first LPS Operating Budget and School Technology Budget requests Monday Night, April 1 ~ mas

Third Night | Town Meeting

We're in the usual place -- Battin Hall of Cary Memorial Building (1605 Mass Av)
James Malloy, Town Manager (TMgr) has forwarded changes to The Brown Book since printing; they may be found HERE
All Open Money Articles, Debt Schedule, HERE
Schedule of Articles anticipated tonight is HERE

Town Moderator (TMod) has gaveled the Call to Order.

MOTION presented by the School Committee to Reconsider Article 39. TMod states we will take up reconsideration next week.

Article 2 is now open; the Article remains open throughout TM, to receive reports from Officials, Boards, and Committee

Article 2: Report of the Appropriation Committee (AC)
The Report is received and placed on file
Glenn Parker with brief remarks about the AC Report

Article 2: Report of the Superintendent of the Minuteman Regional High School
The report is received and placed on file
Being presented by Kevin Mahoney, Assistant Superintendent - Finance
Presentation HERE 

Article 2: Report of the Lexington School Superintendent
The report is received and placed on file
Superintendent Dr. Julie Hackett's presentation is HERE

The Meeting is now open on Article 11: Appropriate FY2020 Operating Budget
MOTION is HERE
TMod will go through each line and will take questions from Town Meeting Members. Vote will be taken at the end.
Select Board (SB): Unanimously supports
School Committee (SC): Unanimously supports
AC: Unanimously supports
Question/TMMP6: on Education, LPS and Minuteman. LPS Health insurance: is this a one-time increase?
TMgr: Brown Book has been updated, amount has been reduced; every year there are new employees who start working here, that number is based on our estimated number of new employees
TMM/P6: Can you report on the number of METCO students enrolled relative to the space
LPS: 215 METCO students in the system, looking at a potential 25 more students.
Q for MM School from TMM/P6: 1). Operating cost/pupil?
MM: $32,000
2). More students to drive down costs?
MM: Students decide if they wish to attend.
3). Facilities for swim team at LPS -- when will it be demolished?
MM: Building demo will begin August 1; running modest use of pool in July.
Q from TMM/P4: Rough outline of how allocations are made relative to split?
TMgr: 73% for schools, 26% for municipal
Time to Vote:
YES: 167
NO: 0
ABSTAIN: 1
MOTION is UNANIMOUS, as it carries more than the 2/3 required
TMod turns gavel over to Deputy Moderator (DMod), Barry Orenstein

Article 19: Appropriate for School Capital Projects
MOTION is HERE

Dr. Julie Hackett with the presentation

Presentation is HERE
SB: Unanimously supports

Capital Expenditures Committee (CEC): Unaimously supports (S/O for the 5-year plan)
AC: Unanimously supports
SC: Unanimously supports
Q from TMM/P6: Fully supports. How are we disposing of or recycling these after their useful life?
LPS: Using zero landfill; recycling
TMM/P6: Donating?
LPS: Yes!
Q from TMM/P8: Do we Bring Your Own Device at school? Many students have their own, have the schools considered this?
LPS: We have had this conversation; BYOD for seniors and juniors may opt out if they so choose. Goal is to create equitable systems for "ease of use" for teachers and students.
TMM/P8: Will BYOD be phased out?
LPS: That is the current thinking
Time to VOTE on the MOTION
YES: 161
NO: 1
ABSTAIN: 2
MOTION CARRIES by more than the 2/3 required

Article 5: Establish Qualifications for Tax Deferrals
MOTION is HERE

Vicki Blier (VB), TMM/P9 with a brief presentation
SB: Unanimously supports
AC: Unanimously supports
Q from TMM/P: Very much in favor. Do we have any idea of the percentage of people applying?
VB: It's difficult to know; we do know that 477 seniors qualified for the State Circuit Breaker
Q from TMM/P: What can the Town do to publicize?
VB: The actual tax bill did have something included with it to describe the program. Item included in newsletters, newspaper. Conversations at Community Center, other times, places.
Q from TMM/P3: What is the rationale for $75,000?
VB: We started at the State Limit of $40,000 and have been notching it up.
Q from TMM/P2: What is the interest rate?
Pat Costello: Approximately 1.96% currently; 2.55% in 2020
Q from TMM/P4: Do more people actually apply for the tax deferral?
VB: We've had steady increase
YESmic: TMM/P6
VOTE on the MOTION (simple majority):
YES: 164
NO: 0
ABSTAIN: 1
MOTION PASSES

Returning the gavel to TMod

Article 10: Post Employment Insurance Liability Fund
SB Chair Barry recuses herself
MOTION is HERE

SB: Supports 4-0 (1 recusal)
AC: Unanimously supports
Q from TMM/P4: Where are we WRT meeting our full funding for Pension?
Town Of Lexington (ToL): On target to be fully funded by 2024
Q from TMM/P3: How are we doing compared to other towns?
ToL: Many other Towns have not funded its Pension, some are ahead of us, they are the minority
VOTE on the MOTION
YES: 147
NO: 4
ABSTAIN: 3
MOTION CARRIES

Article 12: FY20 Enterprise Funds Budgets

MOTION is HERE

SB: Unanimously supports

AC: Unanimously supports

Seeing no questions

VOTE on MOTION:

YES: 154

NO: 0

ABSTAIN: 1

MOTION PASSES

TMod passes gavel to DMod

Article 13: Departmental Revolving Funds

MOTION is HERE

For occasional peer review of water management systems

SB: Unanimously supports

AC: Unanimously supports

Q from TMM/P7: Who can invoke the process? Is it mandatory once requested?

ToL: Not necessarily applies to every building application, but where the Building Commissioner recommends referral for peer review

TMM/P7: Are there no guidelines?

ToL: Because there are no standards, and the Building Commissioner is not a Civil Engineer, which is why we need a Civil Engineer

TMM/P7: Is there an appeal process? 

ToL: Not unless there is a Civil Engineer in the roles

TMMP7: Is there a waiver?

ToL: There is no waiver process

TMM/P7: Subjective, can't support

TMM/P1: By what authority is there for charging this fee?

Town Counsel: MGL, Ch. 53G accounts

TMM/P1: Does it cover imposing a fee for the town to hire?

Town Counsel: Yes

YESmic: TMM/P9

Q from TMM/P3: How many homes have been affected? Average amount?

ToL: Have had, last year, 71 homes torn down, not all required, but each one has had to be

looked at. 8 reviews per month maximum, 4 hours per review, $150/hour

No further Questions

VOTE the MOTION:

YES: 149

NO: 4

ABSTAIN: 2

MOTION CARRIES

DMod to TMod

Consent Agenda: (For Articles 14c, 14l, 14m, 16a, 16d, 16g, 16j, 16k, 16l, 18, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, 20f, 21, 23, 24,25,27)
MOTIONS are HERE
SB: Asks to have Article 27 removed (it will not be taken up tonight)
Q from TMM/P3: For sidewalks not included in Center Streetscape?
ToL: Annual item, not part of Center Streetscape
TMM/P3: Same material?
ToL: Regular sidewalk repair, so in-kind repairs--if asphalt, asphalt; concrete, concrete
TMM/P6: Center Streetscape project is substantial cost, please separate 16g
TMM/P3: 16 j, k, l -- where is the work to be done?
ToL: They are done at existing signals throughout town. Off of Lowell Street is one area. Street improvements are townwide -- update website, mailings to abutters (15 miles each year). Map is put on the website each year
TMM/P3: Walnut Street on the list?
ToL: have to take a look to see if it is on the list this year
TMM/P3: I don't live there, but is one of the narrower roads, many potholes, was hoping, yes
Seeing no questions
VOTE on CONSENT AGENDA (Not on the items asked to be pulled out):

YES: 150
NO: 0
ABSTAIN: 1
MOTION CARRIES

There is time permitting, TMod asks for a MOTION for TM to take up Articles scheduled for 
Wednesday, April 3; SB Chair Barry with the MOTION; TM approves:
Article 17: Appropriate for Water System ImprovementsMOTION is HERE

SB: Unanimously supports

AC: Unanimously supports

CEC: Unanimously supports

Apologies for missing the questions from TMM/P3!

Q from another TMM/P3: Given the discussion last year, can you tell us the inspection process that goes into the 100-lifeyear cycle of water mains?

ToL: Water system is under pressure, inspections are much more difficult to investigate.

Seeing no further Questions, VOTE on MOTION (requires 2/3 majority):

YES: 146

NO: 0

ABSTAIN: 1

MOTION is UNANIMOUS

Article 22: Establish, Dissolve, and Appropriate to and from Specified Stabilization Funds

MOTION is HERE

Requires 2/3 Majority

SB: Unanimously supports

CEC: on parts a and b--unanimously supports

AC: Unanimously supports

Seeing no questions

VOTE on MOTION

YES: 143

NO: 0

ABSTAIN: 1

MOTION CARRIES

Article 26: Amend FY19 Operating, Enterprise, and CPA Budgets

MOTION is HERE

AC: 5-0 in favor (just took their vote with the members remaining at the table)

SB: Unanimously supports

VOTE on the MOTION

YES: 141

NO: 0

ABSTAIN: 1

MOTION CARRIES

No further business tonight
We meet again Wednesday, April 3 at 7:30 PM
Until then—we are adjourned
10:11 PM

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Image credit: James Malloy, Town Manager introduces Senior Management Staff to Town Meeting on Wednesday, March 27, 2019 ~ mas

Articles Anticipated Tonight

Tonight will be our third session of the 2019 Annual Town Meeting, starting at 7:30 PM in Battin Hall. The anticipated schedule of Articles has been forwarded by the Town Moderator as follows:

• Article 2: Report of the Appropriation Committee 

• DATE CERTAIN: Article 2—Report of the Minuteman School Superintendent 

• Article 2: Report of the Lexington School Superintendent 

• DATE CERTAIN: Article 11—FY20 Operating Budget 

• Article 19: Appropriate for School Capital Projects 

• Article 5: Establish Qualifications for Tax Deferrals

• Article 10: Post Employment Insurance Liability Fund

• Article 12: FY20 Enterprise Funds Budgets

• Article 13: Departmental Revolving Funds

• Consent Agenda (For Articles 14c, 14l, 14m, 16a, 16d, 16g, 16j, 16k, 16l, 18, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, 20f, 21, 23, 24,25,27). Consent Agenda MOTIONS are HERE

• Any Unfinished Business from Previous Nights

• Time Permitting, begin Articles scheduled for Wednesday, April 3:
• Town Meeting Member Memorial—Kay Tiffany
• Article 4: Reduce Community Preservation Act Surcharge Rate
• Article 15: Recreation Capital Projects
• Article 16: Municipal Capital Projects and Equipment
• Article 17: Water System Improvements
• Article 20: Public Facilities Capital Projects (except 20g)
• Article 22: Specified Stabilization Funds
• Article 26: Amend FY19 Operating, Enterprise and CPA Budgets

Live-blogging from the floor commences once we are gaveled to order. Tweeting, too, @MAStewartMA using #LexMApoli.

Second Night | Town Meeting

Back in Battin Hall for Town Meeting (TM).
Tonight's anticipated schedule of Articles is HERE.
2019 Town Warrant is HERE.
Votes of Town Meeting Members (TMMs) from Opening Night, Monday, March 25, HERE.
Updating this post once Town Moderator (TMod) gavels the Call to Order.

7:30 PM — TMod gavels in, TM is Called to Order.
Fire Chief reminds -- exit to your nearest exit. Look around, as it may not be the entrance you came through.
Brief recess to honor Dan Fenn's 96th birthday. This is his 54th Town Meeting.
When up to speak at mics, be sure to say name and precinct. YES & NO mics: 3-minute time limit.
Question mic: 2-minute time limit. Girls Scout Troop #65411, who say thank you.
We have a HARD STOP tonight at 10:30 Eversource needs to turn off the power at 11:00 PM.
James Malloy, Town Manager introduces Senior Management.

The Meeting is back in session. Meeting is now open on Article 2. Note that Article 2 remains open throughout Town Meeting for Reports from Officers, Boards, or Committees to be presented and placed on file with the Town Clerk.

Article 2: Report of the Board of Selectmen is received and placed on file by VOICE VOTE.

Article 2: Report of the Capital Expenditures Committee (CEC)
MOTION to receive the report and place on file is made by CEC Chair Charles Lamb; passes on a VOICE VOTE

Article 7: Creation of a Lexington Economic Development Strategy (Citizen Article)
MOTION that this item be Indefinitely Postponed (IP'd)
Bridger McGaw, TMM/P6, with the presentation, HERE.
Board of Selectmen (BoS): Unanimously supports IP. Asks to recognize Town Manager Malloy, who speaks to strength of Economic Development Office, to report by June 15, 2019. More details in the presentation linked above.
IP PASSES on a VOICE VOTE

Article 8: Funding for Sustainability Actions (Citizen Article)

MOTION that this item be IP'd
Ricki Pappo, TMM/P2
BoS: Unanimous supports
CEC: Unanimously supports
IP PASSES on a VOICE VOTE

Article 9: Sustainability Director (Citizen Article)
MOTION that this item be IP'd
Ricki Pappo, TMM/P2 makes brief Presentation, HERE
BoS: Unanimously supports IP
IP PASSES by VOICE VOTE

Article 39: Amend Zoning Bylaw – Limited Site Plan Review (Citizen Article, referring to MGL Chapter 40A, §3, "Dover Amendment Uses")
MOTION is received and placed on file by VOICE VOTE
Jeanne Krieger, TMM/P3, with the Presentation, HERE.
The Report of the Planning Board (PB) is received and placed on file by VOICE VOTE
PB: Unanimously supports
BoS: Unanimously supports
Citizen's Mic: Resident speaks in support. Recently impacted by Dover Amendment (Goddard School); worries about light pollution impact on nature; bright lights directly into their home. Large paved parking lot; unclear if plantings to mitigate the impervious nature of pavement.
QuestionMic: TMM/P9 The institution for the brain in the center, would that fall under this type of review?
PB: Educational institution.
TMM/P9 The brain institute is an educational institution and would fall under this review. I do not want to place difficulty on them.
Citizen's Mic: This proposal is modest. Review is important. Need knowledge for scope of a project coming in. Urge support for it.
YESmic: TMM/P3 Wasn't informed about this project until the first day of work on it. A concern is that it is constructed adjacent to a conservation area. Bright lights are unnecessary.
Qmic: TMM/P1 1). When was the Dover Amendment enacted and why is it called that? 2). What was the purpose? 3). Has the PB tried to do something like this in the past?
Town Counsel: 1). Not sure how long or why named. The Amendment has been around for decades. Think it may have something to do with the Town of Dover. 2). Purpose is clear: to protect uses, avoid discrimination on religious, educational institutions, against neighborhoods. There is room for regulation. Courts say to stick close to the six uses.
PB: 3). Many uses in Lexington over the years. No one has approached the PB with anything resembling this over the years.
Qmic: TMM/P2 What is the process in the case of disagreement?
A: There is the right to seek agreement within the courts.
YESmic: TMM/P2 This is an important tool we could've used for the project referenced previously.
CitizenMic: Is in support. Resident surprised by a project that "appeared" one morning behind her house. It would be good to know about such a project. Need some kind of oversight.
Qmic: TMM/P4 Is there a way to add lighting, other conditions?
Town Counsel To follow up on previous question about, Amendment enacted in 1950, Town of Dover. Now to answer -- there is a risk that court would not permit conditions.
YESmic: TMM/P4 Encourage TMMs to vote for this. There are a lot of things that can be done to create more harmony between the institution and the Town.
Citizen's Mic: Impacted by expansion of a project with little oversight behind house. Young children. very much in favor of this.
Qmic: TMM/P8 Is there a way to add screening?
Town Counsel: The exact contours are not black and white, with respect to the courts. Screening from parking may be permissible. The way this is drafted, PB to draft guidance in the six areas, may be acceptable.
NOmic: TMM/P7 Calls the Question
PASSES by VOICE VOTE
Final comments by the Maker of the MOTION
Vote Requires 2/3 Majority
YES: 151
NO: 4
ABSTAIN: 4
MOTION PASSES

Articles 33 (Petition the General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts), 34 (General Bylaw), & 37 (Zoning Bylaw): Rename “Board of Selectmen” to “Select Board”
MOTIONs (linked to in Article numbers above) are received and PASS on a VOICE VOTE
Presentation for all three Articles, HERE
Articles 33 & 34 require simple Majority; Article 37 requires 2/3 Majority
BoS: Unanimously supports all 3

PB: Unanimously supports
Qmic: TMM/P4 Address how?
Town Counsel: General Laws use both "Board of Selectmen" and "Select Board"; for purposes of correspondence, use Select Board
NOmic: TMM/P3 Voicing a muted NO. Respect for history, not blindly, tho. [Cites historical use, as Puritans created the term in Dorchester.]
YESmic: TMM/P5 I respectfully disagree. It's right to be gender-inclusive. We saw Concord on that list in the presentation, so, there's that.
NOmic: TMM/P6 I would like to say that I, too, always thought of "Selectmen" as a title. I worked hard for that title.
Qmic: TMM/P5 I always thought of "Selectmen" as a generic term. Is there any actual real evidence that men or women support this change?
BoS Member Hai: More than 20% of Towns using Town form of Government, use "Select Board".
YESmic: TMM/P1 I'm surprised we are even having a debate about this. We are not erasing history in Lexington!
[Noting the looong line of women that just formed behind the YES mic!]
TMM Calls the Question
Vote to Close Debate PASSES by VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 37 REQUIRES 2/3 VOTE
YES: 143
NO: 14
ABSTAIN: 1
MOTION PASSES BY MORE THAN THE 2/3 NECESSARY
ARTICLE 33 REQUIRES SIMPLE MAJORITY
YES: 145
NO: 12
ABSTAIN: 1
MOTION PASSES
ARTICLE 34 REQUIRES SIMPLE MAJORITY
YES: 145
NO: 10
ABSTAIN: 2
MOTION PASSES

Article 2: Town Manager’s Budget Report (Noting that TMMs do not have a copy of his report/presentation, but it is built from the first tab of The Brown Book, pp.i-xvi)
MOTION to receive the report and place on file PASSES on a VOICE VOTE
James Malloy Town Manager with the presentation.

TMM/P4 serves Notice of Reconsideration on Article 39.
TMod: Member has served Notice of Reconsideration is timely.

Still have time before the HARD STOP

PASSING by VOICE VOTE to take up Article 28

Article 28: Confirm Street Acceptance and Title (Portion of Pelham Road)
MOTION is HERE
That the MOTION be received and placed on file PASSES by VOICE VOTE
Select Board Member Sandeen gives the presentation, HERE
Select Board (SB): Unanimously supports
Qmic: TMM/P7 Are there any financials?
A: No.
VOTE REQUIRES 2/3 MAJORITY
Unanimous by VOICE VOTE
MOTION PASSES

PASSING by VOICE VOTE to take up Article 29
SBMember Barry recuses, as her spouse works for Lexington Police Department
Article 29: Civil Service Withdrawal
Full text of the Article, HERE
MOTION is received and placed on file by VOICE VOTE
SB: 4-0 in support (SBM Barry's recusal)
Qmic: TMM/P2 Talked about hiring. Anything else? Pensions? Firings?
Town Manager: It would not affect pensions at all. Other parts defined in labor contracts.
Q: Please explain to ensure fair process for hirings?
TMgr: We will continue to do with negotions process
Qmic: TMM/P6 Appreciate very clear explanation. Curious: overtime pay, hiring officers in a timely. Does the budget assume this passes?
TMgr: Budget includes contracts as we have worked them out.
Qmic: TMM/P8 What is the benefit?
TMgr: Benefit is limited to certain list of candidates. Not on the list enables a wider net. Gives us an ability to diversify, as Burlington was able to do [when they adopted this about a year ago]
Qmic: TMM/P3 Is there any negative implication for Veterans?
TMgr: No. We will continue to give preference to Veterans
Qmic: Any negative at all to police?
TMgr: No.
Qmic: TMM/P3 Speaking as member of Appropriation Committee (AC). Combined with contact negotions, complicates matters a bit ... did you have to make any major concessions?
TMgr: We did make some concessions because of some of the benefits.
Qmic: TMM/P3 The AC has no position on this Article.
Police Chief Corr: We will identify our best options
TMM Calls the Question
DEBATE IS CLOSED by VOICE VOTE
Final comments
VOTE REQUIRES A SIMPLE MAJORITY
YES: 145
NO: 2
ABSTAIN: 3
MOTION CARRIES

MOTION TO ADJOURN until Monday, April 1, 2019 CARRIES by VOICE VOTE
10:00 PM

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Image credit: Minutemen Color Guard on Opening Night of 2019 Annual Town Meeting (ATM) ~ mas

Anticipated Articles | Tonight

Below, the updated proposed schedule of Articles for tonight's Town Meeting from Town Moderator, as of last Friday, March 23. Note that none of the Articles are DATE CERTAIN.

Article 2 remains open throughout Town Meeting for Reports from Officers, Boards, or Committees to be presented and placed on file with the Town Clerk.

Article 2: Report of the Town Manager (Items Referred Back to Board of Selectmen) 

Article 2: Report of the Capital Expenditures Committee 

Article 7: Creation of a Lexington Economic Development Strategy (Citizen Article)
MOTION that this item be Indefinitely Postponed (ID'd) 

Article 8: Funding for Sustainability Actions (Citizen Article)
MOTION that this item be IP'd 

Article 9: Sustainability Director (Citizen Article) 

Article 39: Amend Zoning Bylaw – Limited Site Plan Review (Citizen Article, referring to MGL Chapter 40A, §3, "Dover Amendment Uses") 

Articles 33, 34, & 37: Rename “Board of Selectmen” to “Select Board” 

 
Article 2: Town Manager’s Budget Report (First tab of The Brown Book, pp.i-xvi)
Any Unfinished Business from the Previous Night

Town Meeting starts at 7:30 PM in Battin Hall of Cary Memorial Building (1605 Mass Av). Live-blogging begins once we're graveled in. Residents may address Town Meeting, with comments and/or questions pertaining to Town Meeting business, through the Town Moderator and must arrange to do so in advance.

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Image credit: Some of the 2019 Town Meeting Reports: Town of Lexington Annual Report, The Brown Book (Recommended Budget & Financing Plan), Capital Expenditures Committee Report, Town Warrant

2019 Town Warrant is HERE
MOTIONS updated 3/25/2019, HERE
Consent Agenda MOTIONS, HERE
MOTIONS by Article Number, HERE
Articles with MOTIONS, Reports, and Presentations, HERE

Recommended Budget and Financing Plan (The Brown Book), HERE
Report of the Appropriation Committee (AC), HERE
Report of the Capital Expenditures Committee (CEC), HERE
Report of the Community Preservation Committee (CPC), HERE
Votes of Town Meeting Members (TMMs) by date, HERE

Opening Night | 2019 Annual Town Meeting

We're in Margery Milne Battin Hall of Isaac Harris Cary Memorial Building. We'll continue meeting here every Monday and Wednesday evening, except during public school vacation week, until all business has been concluded.

2019 Town Warrant is HERE.
MOTIONS dated 3/25/2019 is HERE; MOTIONS by Article Number, HERE.
Articles with MOTIONS, Reports, and Presentations, HERE.

Recommended Budget and Financing Plan (The Brown Book) is HERE.
Report of the Appropriation Committee (AC) is HERE.
Report of the Capital Expenditures Committee (CEC) is HERE.

Expected schedule tonight:

• Article 2: Elect Deputy Moderator (Barry Orenstein)
• DATE CERTAIN: Article 30—Reduce/Ban Polystyrene Materials (Citizen Article)
• DATE CERTAIN: Article 31—Reduce/Ban Single-use Plastic Straws and Stirrers (Citizen Article)
• Article 3: Cary Lecture Series
• Article 32: Capital Expenditures Committee-related Provisions (To petition the Massachusetts General Court to enact specific legislation concerning the Town's CEC -- see p.14 of the Warrant)
• Article 35: Amend Article III of Chapter 118 (Citizen Article)
• Article 36: Outcomes-based Approach to Town Building Projects (Citizen Article)

Updating ensues once Town Moderator (TMod) gavels the Call to Order 

7:30 PM TMod has called the Meeting to Order.
Opening Ceremony kicks off with "Yankee Doodle" played by the Joseph Diamond Fife & Drum Corps. Minutemen Flag Corps places flags of Lexington and United States to our National Anthem by the fifes and drums.

Brief recess. State Representative Michelle Ciccolo is introduced, honors graduating seniors from Lexington High School (LHS) and from Minuteman Regional Vocational Technical High School (MM), being acknowledged for their character, perseverance, resilience, and accomplishments.

Meeting called back to order.

The Meeting is now open on Article 2: Election of Deputy Moderator (DMod), Barry Orenstein. This is in the event of TMod recusal, absence, disability, etc., according to Section 118-11 of the Code of the Town of Lexington.
MOTION passes unanimously.

TMod's introductory remarks and instructions for Members designed to keep order, decorum.

Article 30—Reduce/Ban Polystyrene Materials (Citizen Article) and Article 31—Reduce/Ban Single-use Plastic Straws and Stirrers (Citizen Article) are now open.
TMMs approve taking the two Articles out of order.
Presentation by Lexington Green Teams members and Girl Scouts Troop #65411 is HERE.
Board of Selectmen (BoS): Unanimous support of both Articles
School Committee (SC): Unanimous support of both Articles
Conservation Commission: Unanimous support of both Articles
Commission on Disability: Unanimous on Article 31 only; no position taken on Article 30
Sustainable Lexington: Unanimous support of both Articles
Chamber of Commerce: In full support of Article 31; applaud the concept of Article 30, members are concerned of the economic impact of passage of Article 30, as a result, no position on Article 30
Questions:
TMM/P7: Forks, spoons, plates included?
A: Felt these two items at this time
TMM: Open to Amendment?
TMod: Formal process
TMM/P3: In favor of concept. Concern of unintended consequences...Art.30 -- what about computers with Styrofoam for shipping?
A: Definitions are included, only food serviceware are listed, not packing materials
TMM: Juice boxes have straws?
A: Only prevent the actual sale of plastic straw, not juice being sold.
Citizen Mic: Professor of biodegradables...really consider the environmental impact all over the world, not only Lexington. Fully support both Articles.
TMM/P2 YES Mic: TY to LPS Green Teams and Girl Scouts. Feels good to move along on single use plastice
TMM/P1: Is Town planning to regulate compostable plastic?
A: Bylaws defines
CitizenMic: We have to take responsibility. Plastice are an eyesore and a danger.
Amendment to Art.31: to include forks, spoons, plates is outside of the scope of the warrant TMod will not allow amendment
CALL the Question -- Close debate?
Yes: 104
No: 57
Abstain: 2
Motion PASSES | DEBATE is closed
Final comments to maker of MOTION
Vote on Article 30
YES: 159
NO: 2
ABSTAIN: 3
MOTION PASSES
Vote on Article 31
YES: 160
NO: 1
ABSTAIN: 3
MOTION PASSES

Meeting now open on Article 3: Cary Lecture Series
Motion to receive Report and place on file -- unanimous
Rita Goldberg, Chair and TMM/P2, with the presentation.
BoS: unanimous
Voice Vote of TM on Article 3: Passes

MOTION to take Article 32 out of order
Passes
Meeting now open on Article 32: Capital Expenditures Committee-related Provisions (To petition the Massachusetts General Court to enact specific legislation concerning the Town's CEC -- see p.14 of the Warrant)
David Kantor, CEC, with the presentation HERE
BoS: Unanimous
Appropriation Committee (AC): Unanimous
CEC: Unanimous
SC: Unanimous
No Questions
Vote of TM
YES: 151
NO: 1
ABSTAIN: 1
MOTION CARRIES

MOTION to take Article 35 out of order
TMM: Voice Vote passes
Meeting now open on Article 35: Amend Article III of Chapter 118 (Citizen Article)
Matthew Daggett, TMM/P2 with the presentation HERE
BoS: Unanimous support
AC: did not take a position
CEC: Unanimously opposed
SC: 4-1 (abstention)
Planning Board (PB): 4-1 to approve

NOmic/TMMP6: a lot of unintended consequences
YESmic/TMMP4: Not a frequent occurance, but has happened., not intended to suppress debate. 10 mins is arbitrary, some opportunity for some discussion. A good corrective for an infrequent problem
Q/TMMP8: If no debate?
A: In that case now there is clear direction to TMod about what to do.
Q/TMMP3: If person calls the Q before 10 minutes?
A: Motion to Call the Q is a subsidiary motion, gets 10 mins
Q: 10 mins?
A: Yes. Subject to discretion of TMod
Q/TMMP8: Redundant?
A: TMod has no expectation for how much debate to proceed, expectation
NOmic TMMP1: If it ain't broke, don't fix it.
Q/TMMP6: Powers of TMod? Town Counsel?
Town Counsel: TMod retains discretion. provides guidance
YESmic/TMMP8: when it comes up, I want to be able to ask questions
NOmic/TMMP7
Q/TMMP8: Does it apply to this TM?
Town Counsel: must be approved by AG
Q/TMMP6: Minimum or maximum?
A: Minimum
Q/TMMP5: calls the Q
Voice Vote: Passes; Debate is closed
Final comments to maker of Motion
Vote of TMM on Article 35:
YES: 88
NO: 65
ABSTAIN: 6
MOTION PASSES

Meeting is now open on Article 36: Outcomes-based Approach to Town Building Projects (Citizen Article)
Dan Voss, Sustainable Lexington, with the presentation HERE.
BoS: Unanimous support
SC: Unanimous support
AC: No position
CEC: Unanimous support
Q/TMMP7: The Team to determine the policies?
A: Yes
YES: TMM/P2
CitizenMic: Sustainable Lexington voted unanimously to support
YES: TMM/P6, PBC Member (Permanent Building Committee)
Q/TMMP5: What, if any, changes to project sites?
A: Article requesting the BoS and SC, PBC and Facilities Department to develop policies. Objective is to follow a framework for measuring outcomes; gathering more info at the front-end.
Q/TMMP2: Impact on residential?
A: No impact
Q/TMMP2: Amend?
TMod: It is within scope of Warrant. Come up if you want to make it.
Proposed Amendment would have no binding authority, no motion to amend
No further Qs
No Final comments
Vote of TM on Article 36:
YES: 142
NO: 0
ABSTAIN: 2
MOTION PASSES

Meeting adjourned at 10:22 PM until 7:30 PM on Wednesday, March 27
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Image credit: Presentation slide, Town of Lexington 2019 Annual Town Meeting ~ mas