Priorities for Lexington

Large buildings in Lexington have been surprising the community. I will bring proactive planning for single-family, multi-family, and commercial development. Using form-based zoning, I will develop regulations that encourage the construction of smaller housing units to improve affordability while matching Lexington’s historic character.

Ensuring Lexington has a diversity of housing is key to making sure community members can afford to downsize, stay in Lexington, and put down roots at every stage of life.

Accounting for and evaluating the impacts of multi-family housing built under MBTA Communities Zoning can only be a first step. Without strategic action now to plan future development, Lexington risks continued uncertainty and reactive decision-making.

Through neighborhood plans and form-based zoning, I commit to bringing Lexingtonians into the planning process so everyone is part of shaping our town’s future.

Lexington must better use areas like Hartwell, South Lexington, and other manufacturing districts to plan development that brings in revenue without relying on tax overrides or dramatic increases on residents.

With the construction of a $660 million high school, multiple capital projects in the pipeline, and rising costs for existing town services, it is more important than ever that Lexington diversify its revenue sources.

Continued tax increases on residents will only drive up costs and push neighbors out of the community. Smart, well-planned commercial development can help stabilize taxes while supporting local jobs and services.

Lexington’s leadership in protecting conservation land and advancing sustainable practices can go further. On the Planning Board, I will bring forward amendments that prevent unnecessary tree removal and encourage the retention and planting of trees both on-site and along streets.

Developments like 69 Pleasant Street showed how destructive development can be under current bylaws. Creating site-sensitive development standards that prevent the clearcutting of lots is critical.

As a member and chair of the Transportation Advisory Committee, I have worked to improve Lexpress affordability and operations, expand MBTA service—including Sunday service for the first time since the 1970s—develop a bicycle and pedestrian investment plan, and modernize parking and traffic management.

Even though we know what needs to be done, we have not invested enough. Other Massachusetts communities require developers to contribute more toward community infrastructure. To protect our environment, Lexington must bring its outdated transportation regulations up to 2026 standards.