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Select Board - 6/22/2026
Published: Jun 22, 2026
Lexington Considers Solar Projects at Muzzy Street Lot and Pine Meadows Golf Course
The Select Board reviewed proposals for solar projects at two locations: the Muzzy Street Waltham Street parking lot and the Pine Meadows Golf Course. For the Muzzy Street parking lot, a 242-kilowatt system was presented with an estimated cost of $1.2 million. However, significant concerns were raised regarding potential cost inflation due to historic district regulations (HDC), competing desires for the lot's use (pedestrian access, trees, bike parking, reduced parking), and uncertain returns. The board expressed reservations about the high initial investment and potential HDC complications, with some members leaning towards not proceeding unless HDC approval is confirmed and costs remain reasonable. For the Pine Meadows Golf Course, four solar options were presented, ranging from a small 17-kilowatt system on the shop roof to a 160-kilowatt carport. Option four, the carport, was favored by most board members due to its significant solar generation, potential for net-zero energy use for the clubhouse, and a reasonable payback period, despite its higher cost. The board generally favored proceeding with Option 4 for Pine Meadows, pending confirmation of Eversource capacity and bonding costs. The decision on Muzzy Street was tabled pending further investigation into HDC implications and site specifics.
Lexington Select Board Defers Decision on Committee Liaison Roles Amidst Governance Discussion
The Select Board discussed the assignment of liaison roles to various town committees. The proposed changes aimed for minimal disruption, recognizing the value of continuity, but also aimed to clarify roles, distinguishing between liaisons and points of contact. The discussion highlighted a potential conflict of interest regarding Select Board members serving on committees where they might advocate for funding (e.g., the Community Preservation Committee and Affordable Housing Trust), leading to a debate about whether appointments should involve single votes or multiple roles. Due to the absence of a board member and differing recollections of past discussions, the matter was deferred for further discussion and resolution by the new board chair in July, with a goal of notifying committee chairs of finalized roles by July 1st.
Lexington Select Board Approves Drainage Mitigation for Hayes Lane Despite Unaccepted Road Status
The Select Board addressed a drainage issue on Hayes Lane, an unaccepted road, reported by resident David Simons at 16 Hayes Lane. Mr. Simons described recurring flooding in his garage, driveway, and yard due to rainwater runoff overwhelming his self-installed mitigation systems. He requested town assistance for localized drainage improvements, not a full road reconstruction. The Department of Public Works (DPW) confirmed the issue and noted that while the homeowner has made significant efforts, the proposed $10,000 intervention might not entirely resolve the problem, especially during heavy storms. The Board expressed sympathy but also concern about setting a precedent for maintaining unaccepted roads. However, recognizing the homeowner's repeated mitigation efforts and the potential safety hazard of winter ice, the Board voted to approve a drainage mitigation improvement, emphasizing it's a best-effort attempt and will not create an ongoing maintenance obligation for the town on the unaccepted road.
Lexington Firefighters Seek Fair Contract Amidst Town Growth and Staffing Concerns
Lexington Firefighters Local 491 addressed the Select Board regarding their contract, which is one year out of date and has not included a pay raise in two years. They highlighted the significant construction growth in Lexington, including nearly a thousand housing units in production and more in planning stages, which increases the risks faced by firefighters. They noted that Lexington firefighters are paid substantially less than those in neighboring communities for facing similar risks, leading to retention and recruitment issues. The union seeks a fair contract to retain and recruit qualified firefighters.
Eversource Granted Location for Underground Utility Upgrades in Lexington; Double Pole Remediation Pending
The Select Board continued a hearing on Eversource Energy's grant of location petitions for underground conduit and manhole installations on Mass Ave, Merriam Street, Depot Place, and Hartwell Ave. These projects are for upgrading service at 1833 Mass Ave and providing new service to 17 Hartwell Ave. The hearing was continued due to issues with double poles. Eversource has committed to remediating three remaining double poles within three weeks of a June 12th letter. The board expressed satisfaction with the plan, pending confirmation of completion. A related concern was raised by Don McKenna regarding a double pole near St. Nicholas Church on Merriam Street, which may impact future handicap accessibility plans for the church. Eversource agreed to coordinate removal of associated wires and will share contact information to address this specific issue offline. The board approved the grants of location, contingent upon the completion of wire transfers as per Eversource's letter and coordination for double pole removal.
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The Lexington News archive
School Building Committee - 6/25/2026
School Building Committee - 6/25/2026
Planning Board - 6/24/2026
Planning Board - 6/24/2026
Conservation Commission - 6/23/2026
Conservation Commission - 6/23/2026
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