by Frank Schroth

The Board of Selectmen started their term last week with a new member, a new chair, and a new approach. Issues that came up included but were not limited to a discussion of Milton Mews, a review of the lease for the Milton Art Center, and a look at the articles for Town Meeting.

The meeting opened with Tom Hurley handing over the reins of the chairmanship to Denis Keohane. Keohane opened his remarks by commending Bob Sweeney for his contributions to the board. He then outlined an strategy moving forward whereby the members of the board will play to their respective strengths in dealing with town matters. Saying that, “we can be more collaborative rather than one person doing everything.” By “one person” he was referring to the chair. He said he would focus on real estate issues, Mr. Hurley would focus on finance, and Ms. Conlon on legal matters. For their part the other members were amenable. Conlon said, “I am happy to help you as chair in any way I can.”

During their session they discussed, among other things:

The lease for the Milton Art Center (MAC) which is now operating in the East Milton Library. Local attorney Mary McNamara and Joan Clifford appeared before the board to ask that the lease arrangement ($500 per month) be extended for another year. The monthly lease payments are scheduled to increase to $1000. They stated that while in the black, the organization could not easily absorb the increase. McNamara lobbied strongly to have the amount remain where it was, arguing that the center was providing a needed and valued contribution to the culture of the town. The selectmen voiced their support for the arts but Hurley noted that they could not afford to maintain the building at the lower rate. The rental income represents the only monies the town has for repairs of the building. The organization is applying for 501C3 status which will enhance its fundraising abilities. The selectmen offered to extend the rate for 6 months and have MAC return after that time to assess where they were financially.

Denny Swenson, a resident of Hemenway Drive, and member of The Friends of the Blue Hills, one of several organizations opposed to the development of the Milton Mews 40B project on Brush Hill Road, appeared during Citizen Speak and presented a map showing limited means of access to the property. Ms. Swenson, highlighting that property lacks a secondary access, said people could be trapped. Hurly said that Hemenway Drove could be used, “Public safety has use of that road. It trumps everything.” Ms Swenson noted the road is private. “Doesn’t matter,” replied Hurley. In the application filed by the developer, Mlll Creek, they did not seek a waiver regarding road length. The town is compiling their concerns about the project in advance of the deadline of June 9th when the public comment period ends.

John Arthur, a resident of Fuller Village, also spoke on the issue. He urged the board to prepare a “strong response focussed on critical issues.” Mr. Arthur asked, “Where do you stand?” Deborah Felton, executive director of Fuller Village, reiterated Mr. Arthur’s comments. She said, “our concern is that the response from the town be very, very strong. This is the time to kill this project.”

Lynda Lee Sheridan and Bria Kelley of the 350th Committee appeared and announced a fireworks event will be held on Hutchinson Field on Friday June 7th. School bands will be performing. You can learn more at WeAreMilton.org.

The selectmen are issuing a new RFQ for an appraisal of the town owned portion of the Hendries lot. They also approved:

an initiative BikeMilton is engaged in that will qualify Milton for “Bike Friendly” status from the League of American Bicyclists.

putting their support behind a town meeting article put forward by the Historical Society that would provide developer benefit to anyone who might rehabilitate the Swift Hat building. The proposal for provide a waiver for 3 – 6 parking spaces. The article will be taken up Monday evening and also has the support of the Planning Board and Warrant Committee.

The selectmen also discussed the articles they are putting forward at Town Meeting. Ms. Conlon stressed the need to be prepared to address the questions raised especially with regard to concerns identified by the Warrant Committee and Mr. Cronin regarding the East Milton Parking design. Town Meeting approved a $300,000 addition to the Capital Improvement budget to fund the design engineering work. Senator Joyce has a commitment from Transportation Secretary Davey to provide state funds to reimburse the cost.