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

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

Article 2 – Community Preservation Committee Report & Article 10 – Community Preservation Projects

ARTICLE 2 – REPORTS OF TOWN BOARDS, OFFICERS, AND COMMITTEES This Article remains open throughout Town Meeting and reports may be presented at any Town Meeting session by Boards, Officers, or Committees.
Report of the Community Preservation Committee is received and placed on file.
Marilyn Fenollosa, Chair, CPC presents the report.
If additional reports are filed tonight, this post will be updated.

Town Moderator: The Meeting is now open on Article 10. We are going to, by Voice Vote, hear about the 4 lump sums, then take the individual items, taking up 10j and 10d first.

RECOMMENDATIONS
BOS: Unanimously SUPPORTS all items in Article 10
CEC: SUPPORTS all projects (a-l) 6-0

AC: VOTES as follows: 
j: DISAPPROVE 3-5-1
d: APPROVE 6-3
a: that this project be IP'd 9-0
b, c, e, f, g, h, k, l: APPROVE 9-0
i: APPROVE 7-2

Planning Board (PB) as follows: Supports 10j & 10b
School Committee (SC): SUPPORTS school related parts of Article 10f-i
Recreation Committee SUPPORTS 10g, h, i

Voice Vote (to take the items up as proposed above): the Ayes have it

ARTICLE 10 – APPROPRIATE THE FY19 COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE OPERATING BUDGET AND CPA PROJECTS To see if the Town will vote to hear and act on the report of the Community Preservation Committee on the FY19 Community Preservation budget and, pursuant to the recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee, to appropriate from the Community Preservation Fund, or to reserve amounts in the Community Preservation Fund for future appropriations, for the debt service on previously authorized financing; for the administrative expenses of the Community Preservation Committee for FY19; for the acquisition, creation and preservation of open space; for the acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of historic resources; for the acquisition, creation, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of land for recreational use; for the acquisition, creation, preservation and support of community housing; and for the rehabilitation and restoration of open space and community housing that is acquired or created with moneys from the Community Preservation Fund; to appropriate funds for such projects and determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, or from estimated Community Preservation Act surcharges and the State match for the upcoming fiscal year, by transfer from available funds, including enterprise funds, by borrowing, or by any combination of these methods; or act in any other manner in relation thereto. (Inserted by the Board of Selectmen at the request of the Community Preservation Committee) 

This Article requests that Community Preservation funds and other funds, as necessary, be appropriated for the projects recommended by the Community Preservation Committee, the debt service on previously authorized projects, and for administrative costs.

MOTION: That the Town hear and act on the report of the Community Preservation Committee on the FY2019 Community Preservation budget and, pursuant to the recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee, take the following actions:

That the Town reserve for appropriation the following amounts from estimated FY2019 receipts as recommended by the Community Preservation Committee:

1. $551,400 for the acquisition, creation and preservation of open space;
2. $551,400 for the acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of historic resources;
3. $551,400 for the acquisition, creation, preservation and support of community housing; and
4. $3,859,800 to the Unbudgeted Reserve.

And further, that the Town make appropriations from the Community Preservation Fund and other sources as follows:

a) That this item be indefinitely postponed;

b) That $365,000 be appropriated for the Community Center Sidewalk, and to meet this appropriation $365,000 be appropriated from the Historic Resources Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund;

c) That $20,000 be appropriated for Archives & Records Management and Records Conservation & Preservation, and to meet this appropriation $20,000 be appropriated from the Historic Resources Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund;

d) That $200,000 be appropriated for the Renovation and Adaptive Re-Use of 9 Oakland Street, and to meet this appropriation $200,000 be appropriated from the Historic Resources Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund;

e) That $100,000 be appropriated for Public Grounds Irrigation Improvements, and to meet this appropriation $40,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund and $60,000 be appropriated from the General Fund unreserved fund balance;

f) That $302,000 be appropriated for Playground Replacement Program- Bowman School, and to meet this appropriation $302,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund;

g) That $975,000 be appropriated for Athletic Facility Lighting, and to meet this appropriation $975,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund;

h) That $3,340,000 be appropriated for the Center Track and Field Reconstruction, and to meet this appropriation the Treasurer, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, is authorized to borrow $3,340,000 under M.G.L. Chapter 44, Section 7 as amended or under M.G.L. Chapter 44B, as amended, or any other enabling authority. Any premium received by the Town upon the sale of any bonds or notes approved by this vote, less any such premium applied to the payment of the costs of issuance of such bonds or notes, may be applied to the payment of costs approved by this vote in accordance with Chapter 44, Section 20 of the General Laws, thereby reducing the amount authorized to be borrowed to pay such costs by a like amount;

i) That $75,000 be appropriated for the Old Reservoir Bathhouse Design, and to meet this appropriation $75,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund;

j) That $1,400,000 be appropriated for Lowell Street/Farmview Affordable Housing Supplemental Funds, and to meet this appropriation $600,000 be appropriated from the Community Housing Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund and $800,000 be appropriated from the Undesignated Fund Balance of the Community Preservation Fund;

k) That $2,314,516 be appropriated for CPA Debt Service and related costs and to meet this appropriation $380,550 be appropriated from the Open Space Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund, $400,000 be appropriated from the Historic Resources Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund and $1,533,966 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund; and

l) That $150,000 be appropriated for the Administrative Expenses and all other necessary and proper expenses of the Community Preservation Committee for FY2019 and to meet this appropriation $150,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund.

Presentation for Article 10j is HERE.

Question Mic: TMM/P4 Has the Town submitted a Home Rule petition to use MM students?
A: We like to use them on renovation projects, but this project isn't suited to it.
Q: Will vote no

YES MIC: TMM/P7
Question Mic: TMM/P2 Are these units be on the former Busa Farm?
A: Yes
Q: Are there more units planned?
A: No

YES MIC: TMM/P2
Question Mic: TMM/P What's the vetting process for affordable housing?
A: We do it (Lex HAB)
YES MIC: TMM/P8
Question Mic: TMM/P1 Concerned about future costs. Requirement for public bidding?
A: All of our projects will have to follow public procurement process
Q: What does this imply for the Leary Property that was purchased at the same time?
A: We would look forward to working on that site; don't believe we've done a wetland study.

NO MIC: TMM/P1
YES MIC: TMM/P3
Question Mic: TMM/P6 More about the surprise about the slope?
A: Surprises as far as from the sewer line, further up the street than we thought.
Q: More risk to the farm because of ejectors?
A: They are pumping up into the street.
Q: Require electric power?
A: They do.
Q: What happens when they lose power?
A: We'll have to school residents about what to do.
Member supports affordable housing, expresses concern for keeping the farm in

YES MIC: TMM/P4

TMM Calls the Question
THE AYES HAVE IT -- DEBATE IS CLOSED

Two minutes to the maker of the MOTION
VOTES (simple majority)
YES: 144
NO: 14
ABSTAIN: 6
THE MOTION CARRIES
On to 10d

ARTICLE 10d: That $200,000 be appropriated for the Renovation and Adaptive Re-Use of 9 Oakland Street, and to meet this appropriation $200,000 be appropriated from the Historic Resources Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund.
Presentation is HERE.

NO MIC: TMM/P6
Question Mic: TMM/P2 How many people reside there?
A: 15
Q: Are any under age 18?
A: No.

YES MIC: TMM/P6
Question Mic: TMM/P7 Reconfirm that the majority of funds are not expended?
A: I do not dare challenge Mr. Kanter's numbers.

YES MIC: TMM/P3
YES MIC: TMM/P3

VOTES (simple majority)
YES: 153
NO: 2
ABSTAIN: 3
The MOTION is APPROVED

On to Article 10b: That $365,000 be appropriated for the Community Center Sidewalk, and to meet this appropriation $365,000 be appropriated from the Historic Resources Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund.
The Presentation is HERE.

Question MIC: TMM/P6 What is the status of the other projects?

A: Deemed unnecessary

Q: Why dropped the plans from Marrett Road?

A: Concern from the Fire Chief, we have a second egress.

Question Mic: TMM/P6 If we're going to be looking at Pelham to Community Center, why are we doing it now?
A: Couple of reasons. BOS wants to have all buildings accessible by foot. LexPress, MBTA are more practical locations.
Q: Pedestrian traffic up Marrett Road to the Community Center?
A: No study has been done.

YES MC: TMM/P9
NO MIC: TMM Calls the Question

Voice Vote -- the AYES have it

VOTES (simple majority)
YES: 126
NO: 19
ABSTAIN: 10
The MOTION CARRIES
Member serves Notice of Reconsideration

On to Article 10e: That $100,000 be appropriated for Public Grounds Irrigation Improvements, and to meet this appropriation $40,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund and $60,000 be appropriated from the General Fund unreserved fund balance.

Question Mic: TMM/P7 Does this include the jug-handle at Hartwell AVe?
A: Yes.

VOTES (simple majority)
YES: 145
NO: 1
ABSTAIN: 4
MOTION CARRIES
On to Article 10f

Article 10f: That $302,000 be appropriated for Playground Replacement Program- Bowman School, and to meet this appropriation $302,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund
Presentation is HERE

Question Mic: TMM/P1 Was on the Playground Committee at Harrington, trying to figure out the costs -- where are they going?
A: Using state bid list, state contractor. This has two structures, not one, like the one you described.
Q: Cost of the base surfacing?
A: To renovate $32,000; to change decks and clamps another $14,000. New structure is $70,000

Question Mic: TMM/P6 Construction standard to achieve pricing efficiency
A: No

VOTES (simple majority)
YES: 149
NO: 1
ABSTAIN: 2
MOTION CARRIES
On to Article 10g

Article 10g: That $975,000 be appropriated for Athletic Facility Lighting, and to meet this appropriation $975,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund.
Presentation for 10g, 10h, 10i HERE

Question Mic: TMM/P5 Rebates from Eversource?
A: We will look into this.

VOTES (simple majority)
YES: 148
NO: 0
ABSTAIN: 1
MOTION CARRIES
On to 10h

Article 10h: That $3,340,000 be appropriated for the Center Track and Field Reconstruction, and to meet this appropriation the Treasurer, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, is authorized to borrow $3,340,000 under M.G.L. Chapter 44, Section 7 as amended or under M.G.L. Chapter 44B, as amended, or any other enabling authority. Any premium received by the Town upon the sale of any bonds or notes approved by this vote, less any such premium applied to the payment of the costs of issuance of such bonds or notes, may be applied to the payment of costs approved by this vote in accordance with Chapter 44, Section 20 of the General Laws, thereby reducing the amount authorized to be borrowed to pay such costs by a like amount.
Presentation is HERE.

YES MIC: TMM/P6
Question MIC: TMM/P More information about the funding?
A: Some to be paid by the the general fund, some to be paid by the preservation fund.

YES MIC: TMM/P8

Question MIC: TMM/P6 Use of debt?
A; Not sufficient funds to pay it all from cash. Over a shore period of time, less than 5 years, to pay off the debt.

Question MIC: TMM/P1 Need for new bleachers? How much goes to that?
A: Old wooden bleachers have been removed; new bleachers will seat 300 people
Q: How much?
A: $50,000

Question MIC: TMM/P4 How do we know how the debt service should be allocated each year?
A: Pro-rate the debt service; a math calculation.

Question MIC: TMM/P4 Ability of putting the football field inside the track, knowing it may disappear?
A: Yes. We have started to think about those scenarios.

Question MIC: TMM/P5 Synthetic fields - snow removal?
A: Snow removal on a straight synthetic field will destroy the field. We're looking at it, moving forward.

VOTES (requires 2/3 majority because, borrowing)
YES: 149
NO: 0
ABSTAIN: 2
MOTION CARRIES
On to 10i

Article 10i: That $75,000 be appropriated for the Old Reservoir Bathhouse Design, and to meet this appropriation $75,000 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund.
Presentation HERE.

VOTES (simple majority)
YES: 137
NO: 1
ABSTAIN: 1
MOTION CARRIES
On to 10k

Article 10k: That $2,314,516 be appropriated for CPA Debt Service and related costs and to meet this appropriation $380,550 be appropriated from the Open Space Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund, $400,000 be appropriated from the Historic Resources Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund and $1,533,966 be appropriated from the Unbudgeted Reserve of the Community Preservation Fund.
Presentation HERE

VOTES (simple majority)
YES: 136
NO: 0
ABSTAIN: 1
MOTION CARRIES

Remaining parts of Article 10 will be taken up under the Consent Agenda (that's10a &10l), after April break. Edit: Not April break, just after the weekend. ~mas

MOTION to adjourn until 7:15 on Monday April 9
We are adjourned 10:35 PM

2017 Annual Town Meeting Continues Tonight, Monday, April 3

We're in Battin Hall in the Cary Memorial Building
1605 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington
Articles, Reports, and Presentations to Date
Live-blogging to commence once we are in session.

7:30 PM
Madam Moderator has gavelled us in and we're in session.
Updating as we go.

Tribute to Senator Ken Donnelly of Arlington, who passed away yesterday due to complications from brain cancer. Moment of silence.
Checking electronic voting devices.

Article 19 - Getting to Net Zero To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate a sum of money necessary to hire consultants to provide advice and analysis to the Getting to Net Zero Task Force and Town staff, determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, by transfer from available funds or by any combination of these methods, or to act in any other manner in relation thereto. (Inserted by the Board of Selectmen at the request of the Sustainable Lexington Committee)

• Funds Requested: $40,000 
Description: The Getting to Net Zero Task Force is exploring the possibility of reducing our buildings' emissions to net zero over the next 25 to 35 years. Lexington's buildings are currently responsible for 66% of Lexington's greenhouse gas emissions. The task force is composed of a broad range of stakeholders including local buisinesses, commercial and residential property owners, subject matter experts, Town staff, and appropriate Town committee members. The task force, with the assistance of consultants, will develop strategies, plans and recommendations to achieve an annual balance of zero greenhouse gas emissions from building operations for approval by the Town.

Selectman Pato moves the MOTION
Asks to recognize Mark Sandeen of Sustainable Lexington

Board of Selectmen (BOS): Unanimous
Appropriation Committee (AC): 7-2
Citizen mic: Asks TM to take the next step by continuing to fund the Getting to Net Zero Task Force; if we are not part of the solution, we are part of the problem
YES mic: TMM urges colleagues to support
Q: Wants to know the progress, if any, on renewables
Mark Sandeen: We just got notified that we are approved
Q: Wants concrete examples of how this Task Force will implement change
Sandeen: Running "Lexington Energy Challenge" - based on info that will implement specific programs for each type of building (historic, residential, commercial, etc). Currently building to "LEED Silver". Will impact new Hastings Elementary School, Fire Sation, Police. Looking to "green" our electrical supply. These all play together.
Q: Money for replacing windows in Monroe - how can this help with that?
Sandeen: I would suggest that this is a historic building, perhaps wait for the CPA Article to come up.
Requires simple majority
YES -148
NO - 4
Abstain - 3
MOTION CARRIES

Article 18 - Visitors Center (Citizen Article) To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate a sum of money for planning, constructing, originally equipping and furnishing a new Visitors Center, or for planning, remodeling, reconstructing and making extraordinary repairs to the existing Visitors Center, and for the payment of all other costs incidental and related thereto; determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, by transfer from avialable funds, by borrowing, or by any combination of these methods; or act in any other manner in relation thereof. (Inserted by Dawn McKenna and 9 or more registered voters)

• Funds Requested: $100,000
• Description: The Visitors Center was built over 50 years ago for the Battle of Lexington Bicentennial visitors. It is the information gateway for tourists, residents, newcomers, and corporations considering locating in Lexington. Last year, 120,000 people entered the building, making it one of the most heavily used buildings in Lexington; they spent $190,000 in the shop underwriting the cost of operations. Lexington collects $1.4 million in annual hotel and meals taxes. The building has become outdated and is not fully accessible. When originally built, it was staffed by the Chamber of Commerce. Today the Town occupies, manages, and staffs the Visitors Center. it has become the hub of the Liberty Ride. Many who use the Minuteman Commuter Bikeway benefit from the facility as well. As we approach the 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Lexington, and implement the Battle Green Masterplan, this article would fund the design and construction of a 21st century Visitors Center providing new economic growth opportunities.

Dawn McKenna for the MOTION

Asks to recognize Jon Himmel, Tourism Committee (also on Permanent Building Committee)

Jon Himmel: Money for Design Process, specifically Schematic Design and Design Development, followed by Value Engineering, BOS review. Project is not eligible for CPA funding.
Asks to recognize Fred Johnson, Tourism Committee
Johnson: Lexington has Untapped Potential. 4th most visited community in Massachusetts. Lexington Hotels have had visitors from over 40 countries. Tourism creates jobs - 744 in Lexington. Need a 21st c Visitor Center.
Asks to recognize Dawn McKenna
McKenna: Building is inadequate in many ways. Unwelcoming. To piggy back on the previous presentation, it's an energy hog. Not fully accessible. Urges support.

BOS: 3-2
AC: 9-0
CEC: In favor of the project at funding level for schematic design; Jill Hai Chair, asks to AMEND the appropriation to $21,000 instead of $100,000 (by a CEC vote of 4-1)

• MOTION to AMEND:
• McKenna - Opposed to this MOTION
• BOS: 3-2 in Support
• Selectman Kelly speaks in Opposition to the AMENDMENT
• AC: 0-9 in Opposition
• Citizen mic: Lexington Historical Society wants to see the project completed, which is what we voted to do
• Q: Do the members of BOS support and oppose in the same ways?
• Barry: No - different people.
• Q: Timing of this project a concern?
• McKenna: Want to be ready to come forward at STM this fall and not wait until next year's ATM.
• NO mic: We have waited a long time to do anything to the VIsitors Center
• YES mic: CEC is in favor of updating the Visitors Center, but TM doesn't know what the total cost will be, which is why we want the project to come back to TM to evaluate the dollar scope, not go to the BOS for a decision
• Citizen mic: Jim Shaw, Vice Chair of Chamber of Commerce, we support the original MOTION and vote no on this AMENDMENT
• NO mic: I have seen so many projects come before TM and get approved. This structure is needed
• YES mic: Support this AMENDMENT, stick to the process.
• Q: for CEC - policy to require all docs be approved at the same itme?
• CEC: No. our practice has been to approve in three phases, but is not policy
• NO mic: We have an obligation to provide good facilities. Time is of the essence
• Q: If it passes, will BOS be in support of the AMENDED MOTION
• BOS: It would be 4-1
• YES - 82
• NO - 69
• Abstain - 3
• AMENDMENT CARRIES

AMENDED MAIN MOTION open for discussion
Q: Applaud the passion and persistence of Tourism Committee. What is the thinking on "pre-fabricated solutions"? and What about swing space?
McKenna: On pre-fabs - those decisions would come during the schematic phase. Swing space - three steps forward, two steps back; need to clarify. We don't know.AC: 8-0 in support of the new MOTION (one is absent)
YES mic: Jerry Michelson for Center Business - in support
Q: Is Economic Dev Director
Melissa Tintocollis: Have been learning a lot about the visitor-based economy. I understand Tourism is to have a vital center we need foot traffic and visitor spending. Tourism does that.
MOVES the QUESTION
by VOICE VOTE: the Ayes have it to close debate and take the vote
YES - 150
NO - 6
Abstain - 2
MOTION CARRIES


Article 2 - Community Preservation Committee - to receive the report of the CPC and place on file.
VOTE taken by VOICE VOTE: the MOTION passes and the report is placed on file.

Marilyn Fenollosa, Chair of CPC, speaks to the report

Article 10 - Community Preservation 2018 Operating Budget and CPA Projects (except 10-h) To see if the Town will vote to act on the report of the Community Preservation Committee on the FY2018 Community Preservation budget and, pursuant to the recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee, to appropriate from the Community Preservation Fund, or to reserve amounts in the Community Preservation Fund for future appropriations; for the debt servcice on previously authorized financing; for adiminstrative expenses of the Community Preservation Committee for FY2018; for the acquisition, creation, and preservation and, if acquired with Community Preservation Act Funds the rehabilitation or restoration of open space; for the acquisition, creation, preservation, and rehabilitation and restoration of recreational land; for the acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of historic resources; and through the acquisition, creation, preservation and support and, if acquired with Community Preservation Act funds, the restoration or rehabilitation of community housing; including, in all cases, rehabilitation or restoration that constitutes capital improvements or extrordinary repairs to make assets functional for their intended use; and to determine whether the money shall be provided by the tax levy, or from estimated CPA surcharges and the estimated State match and supplement for the upcoming fiscal year, by available funds in the CP Fund, from transfer from other available funds, by borrowing, or by any combination of these methods or act in any other manner in relation thereto. (Inserted by the Board of Selectmen at the request of the Community Preservation Committee)

• Funds Requested:
• a) Interpretive Signage Project - $38,400
• b) Parker's Revenge Interpretive and Public Education Signage & Displays - $41,350
• c) Greeley Village Rear Door and Porch Supplemental Request - $56,712
• d) Affordable Units Preservation - Pine Grove Village/Judges Road - $1,048,000
• e) Willard's Woods and Wright Farm Meadow Preservation - $40,480
• f) Cotton Farm Conservation Area Improvements - $301,300
• g) Wright Farm Supplemental Funds - $37,900
• h) Stone Building Feasibility Study - $25,000 (to be taken up at ATM on Wednesday, April 5)
• i) Munroe School Window Restoration - $620,000
• j) Center Streetscape Improvements - (recommend IP)
• k) Community Center Sidewalk - $220,000 (recommend IP)
• l) Park Improvements - Athletic Fields - $125,000
• m) Town Pool Renovation - $1,620,000 COSTS are TBD - pulling out until ATM on Wednesday, April 12
• n) Park and Playground Improvements - $60,000
• o) CPA Debt Service - $2,404,259
• p) Administrative Budget - $150,000
• Description: This Article requests that Community Preservation funds and other funds, as necessary, be appropriated for the projects recommended b y the Community Preservation Committee, the debt service on previously authorized projects, and for administrative costs.
• Parts to pull:
• 10-h wed 4/5
• 10-m wed 4/12
• 10-j,k IP
• BOS: Unanimous on all aspects
• AC: Unanimous in Support
• CEC: Unanimous in Support
• YES - 145
• NO - 0 
• Abstain - 3
• MOTION CARRIES to put in the above buckets
• 10-c Greeley Village Rear Door and Porch Supplemental Request - $56,712 (presentation and discussion for all parts follow)
• requires simple majority
• YES - 149
• NO - 0
• Abstain - 2
• Approved
• 10-a Interpretive Signage Project - $38,400
• requires simple majority
• YES - 154
• NO - 0
• Abstain - 3 
• Approved
• 10-b Parker's Revenge Interpretive and Public Education Signage & Displays - $41,350
• requires simple majority
• YES - 119
• NO - 26
• Abstain - 5
• Approved
• 10-d Affordable Units Preservation - Pine Grove Village/Judges Road - $1,048,000
• Planning Board (PB): Supports this part, and all parts, of Article 10
• requires 2/3 majority
• YES - 146
• NO - 1
• Abstain - 3
• Approved

• 10-e Willard's Woods and Wright Farm Meadow Preservation - $40,480
• requires simple majority
• YES - 137
• NO - 1
• Abstain - 3
• Approved

• 10-f Cotton Farm Conservation Area Improvements - $301,300
• requires simple majority
• YES - 109
• NO - 23
• Abstain - 9 
• Approved
• MOTION to take up 10-g tonight
• VOICE VOTE - TM does not approve
• TM will take up remaining parts of Article 10 this Wednesday

MOTION to ADJOURN until Wednesday, April 5

We are adjourned

10:35 PM

And that's a wrap!

- - -

Appropriation Committee Report

Capital Expenditures Committee Report
About Town Meeting

STM 2016-5 Article 6: Amend FY2017 Operating Enterprise Fund and Community Preservation Budgets

Article 6: Amend FY2017 Operating Enterprise Fund and Community Preservation Budgets
MOTION: (a) That the following adjustments be made to the following line items for the FY2017 budget as approved under Article 4 of the 2016 Annual Town Meeting:

• 8500: Town Clerk Personal Services, from $362,681 to $368,039;

• 8500: Town Clerk Personal Expenses, from $124,675 to $125,567;

• 8320: Misc. Boards and Committees, from $4,500 to $34,500;

• 7100: Land Use, Health and Development Expenses, from $414,153 to $436,613

and, that said adjustments be funded from the tax levy.

MOTION: (b) That the following adjustment be made to the following line item for the FY2017 budget to operate the Water Division of the Department of Public Works as approved under Article 5(a) of the 2016 Annual Town Meeting:

• MWRA Water Assessment, from $7,378,622 to $7,349,661

and, further that $90,500 be appropriated from Water Fund Retained Earnings to support the FY17 Water Division Budget in addition to $131,000 of Retained Earnings appropriated under Article 5(a) of the 2016 Annual Town Meeting.

MOTION: (c) That the following amounts be appropriated to the following line item for the FY2017 budget to operate the Wastewater (Sewer) Division of the Department of Public Works as approved under Article 5(b) of the 2016 Annual Town Meeting, and that said amounts be transferred from the following sources:

• MWRA Wastewater Assessment, from $7,311,103 to $7,265,870

MOTION: (d) That the following adjustment be made to the FY2017 budget of the Community Preservation Committee as approved under Article 8(p) of the 2016 Annual Town Meeting:

• CPA Debt Service and Related Costs, from $3,289,721 to $3,329,721

and that said adjustment be funded from the Undesignated Fund Balance of the Community Preservation Fund.

MOTIONs MOVED by Mr. Cohen of the Board of Selectmen. The Board is unanimously in support
CEC: subset d [CPC], in support
AC: unanimously in support of the whole article
CPC: with respect to part d, 7-0 in support
Planning Board: unanimously in support of 2020 Committee study [part d, CPC]

Town Mod calls for Vote (MOTIONs of all parts will be taken in one vote)
Yes: 132
No: 0
Abstain: 3

The MOTION carries