I support open and candid communication about capital improvements and tradeoffs:
Lexington needs vital infrastructure improvements that go to the core of public safety and quality education. These projects will require voter support and include:
The challenge facing the Board of Selectmen and residents will be how to balance the costs associated with the tradeoffs. Should we pass an operating budget override? Should we limit municipal services? Should we let our children learn in larger class sizes? How far can we stretch the useful life of our public safety protection in a town that continues to grow and with a demographic that lives longer?
Growth in property taxes impacts everyone, especially residents living on fixed incomes. We value economic diversity in Lexington and losing it would diminish the richness of our town’s character and culture.
Lexington currently has one of the highest average property tax bills in the Commonwealth. This average results from relatively high assessed values combined with an above-average tax rate when compared to similar communities. In other words, towns with higher average assessments generally have lower tax rates than Lexington.
I support targeted relief for lower income residents and a reduction in the growth in local property taxes.
I support a residential exemption. One way to mitigate the impact on financially vulnerable residents is to implement a Residential Exemption, to shift part of the tax obligation to homes with higher assessments and to properties that are not owner-occupied.
Lexington voters approved a 3% CPA surcharge on our local property tax resulting in many benefits to Lexington. We have set aside 60 acres of conservation land. We have established an active and beautiful community center, restored the Cary Memorial Building, increased and maintained the stock of affordable housing, and supported improvements at the Old Res with those dollars. I value the importance of open space, protection of our natural environment, and enrichment of our quality of community life.
Still, I support a new and balanced discussion about whether now is the time to reduce the CPA surcharge to offset some of the significant growth in taxes that will be needed over the next five years.
Lexington is a suburban town with a strong dependence on personal automobiles for transportation.
I support road improvements that increase safety and that encourage walking and biking. I would like to improve options for public transportation throughout the town.
Parking for cars in Lexington Center will remain a key feature for supporting local business, both for customers and employees.
I support residential zoning that maintains and enhances the economic diversity of our town.
I support the idea that residential construction should be sensitive to the scale and style of the neighborhood.
I support the Planning Board’s work to reform commercial zoning bylaws in ways that enhance commercial tax revenue by encouraging smart commercial development.