The median for new construction in the US is now 2,179 sf. That the price is so 
high is a function of this area, not what the “missing middle” purchaser can 
afford. 

> On May 30, 2025, at 10:14 PM, Sara Mattes <[email protected]> wrote:
> 
> I got answer regarding the cost of 17 of the 20 units being proposed by 
> CIVICO for the Panetta property.
> The 1800 sq ft units will sell for $1mill, the larger ones will go for $2-3 
> mill.
> The income required to afford the “starter” million dollar home is $225,000, 
> with 20% down ($200,000) and a thirty year fixed rate at today’s rate.
> 
> Is this the “missing middle?"
> 
> 
> 
>> On May 30, 2025, at 3:59 PM, Don Seltzer <[email protected]> wrote:
>> 
>> Sara,
>> 
>> Please do not ask me to do research for you. 
>> As I wrote, I was simply adding one detail to the picture.
>> 
>> Don
>> 
>> On Fri, May 30, 2025 at 3:01 PM Sara Mattes <[email protected] 
>> <mailto:[email protected]>> wrote:
>>> And how much do the balance sell for?  
>>> Are they addressing the “missing middle” we have committed to addressing?
>>> Those homes would be $750,00 or less.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>>> On May 30, 2025, at 2:53 PM, Don Seltzer <[email protected] 
>>>> <mailto:[email protected]>> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> To provide a bit more detail on the housing, the three affordable 3 
>>>> Bedroom houses will, under HUD rules, sell for about $300K to households 
>>>> making under $132K.
>>>> 
>>>> Don Seltzer
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> On Fri, May 30, 2025 at 6:21 AM Joseph Kolchinsky 
>>>> <[email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>> wrote:
>>>>> Fantastic point!  I updated the Civico row to indicate that they are also 
>>>>> "Getting Revenue from sale of 20 Mixed-Income Housing Units".  Now it 
>>>>> matches properly.  Updated on the live doc 
>>>>> <https://docsend.com/view/h33hxc7zvdstqa2d> and attached here as well.
>>>>> 
>>>>> This table isn't meant to indicate that anyone is being generous - simply 
>>>>> that every part is participating in an exchange of some kind. It helps to 
>>>>> visualize so that we can all see who is motivated by what.
>>>>> 
>>>>> <Screenshot 2025-05-29 at 9.59.48 PM.png>
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Joseph Kolchinsky
>>>>> 978-604-0827
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> On Thu, May 29, 2025 at 6:30 PM, Terry Kay Epperson 
>>>>> <[email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>> wrote:
>>>>>> Concerning the table, I would argue that Civico is not ‘giving’ the 20 
>>>>>> units.  I think that should belong to the ‘getting’ column, since they 
>>>>>> will be selling these at profit.  
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Warm regards,
>>>>>> Terry Kay
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> On Thu, May 29, 2025 at 12:57 PM Joseph Kolchinsky 
>>>>>> <[email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>> wrote:
>>>>>>> I agree, the moment the town is being asked to participate, 
>>>>>>> transparency is required.  This table I built makes it really straight 
>>>>>>> forward to answer the question of "to whose gain".  I put the below 
>>>>>>> table together with the help of RLF and Farrington to ensure accuracy.  
>>>>>>> I continue to update it in this document on page 4 here. 
>>>>>>> <https://docsend.com/view/h33hxc7zvdstqa2d>
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> If there continues to be doubts as to the validity of this information, 
>>>>>>> I'd love to hear what kind of confirmation one needs.  If I can, I'll 
>>>>>>> dig.  I'm a curious person and really enjoy the pursuit of clarity.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Joey
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> <Screenshot 2025-05-29 at 10.42.42 AM.png>
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Joseph Kolchinsky
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> On Thu, May 29, 2025 at 10:20 AM, Sara Mattes <[email protected] 
>>>>>>> <mailto:[email protected]>> wrote:
>>>>>>>> To whose gain?
>>>>>>>> It is clear that CIVICO, Farrington, Panettas and RLF will, per 
>>>>>>>> statements by RLF members.
>>>>>>>> It is not clear the value of the public investment of significant 
>>>>>>>> public $$ and significant zoning bylaw changes.
>>>>>>>> That case needs to be clearly made.
>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>> This is no longer a private transaction, but a public one, so the 
>>>>>>>> public has a right and responsibility to ask for clarity.
>>>>>>>> These questions do not reflect conspiracy theories but responsible 
>>>>>>>> democratic engagement.
>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>> Sent from my iPad
>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>> On May 29, 2025, at 9:13 AM, John Mendelson <[email protected] 
>>>>>>>>> <mailto:[email protected]>> wrote:
>>>>>>>>> One person's conspiracy theory is another person's ideal 
>>>>>>>>> public/private partnership where 1+1=3.
>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>> On Thu, May 29, 2025 at 8:46 AM Karla Gravis <[email protected] 
>>>>>>>>> <mailto:[email protected]>> wrote:
>>>>>>>>>> Our CPC tax dollars are actually being used to maximize Civico’s 
>>>>>>>>>> profits. 
>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>> Civico is buying the Panetta land at assessed value for its current 
>>>>>>>>>> best use, which is the buildout of 3 single family homes. Not only 
>>>>>>>>>> is this deal letting them build at a much higher density through 
>>>>>>>>>> revised zoning at 20 houses, they are also getting additional land 
>>>>>>>>>> that currently belongs to Farrington to: 1) build more housing 
>>>>>>>>>> units, and 2) place a septic system. This scheme allows Civico to 
>>>>>>>>>> build many more units than it would be otherwise possible. Andrew 
>>>>>>>>>> Consigli at the PB meeting on Tuesday conceded this point.
>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>> While Civico is “giving up” 12 acres of Panetta land for 
>>>>>>>>>> conservation, which will be deeded to the City of Cambridge, this 
>>>>>>>>>> land is excess non-buildable wetlands of no economic value (see 
>>>>>>>>>> image below). In essence, Civico is acquiring buildable land, which 
>>>>>>>>>> they are utilizing to increase their profit, in return for 
>>>>>>>>>> unbuildable land. None of this would obviously be possible if it 
>>>>>>>>>> wasn't for the fact that Lincoln is compensating Farrington, which 
>>>>>>>>>> is the party that is ceding these valuable acres. It is absolutely 
>>>>>>>>>> fair to say that the town of Lincoln is subsidizing Civico, albeit 
>>>>>>>>>> indirectly, if you want in a "hidden" way.
>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>> I disagree that this has been presented transparently. None of the 
>>>>>>>>>> documentation available online mentions the transfer of land to 
>>>>>>>>>> Civico for housing. The documentation and presentations (here 
>>>>>>>>>> <https://lincolnconservation.org/the-nature-link-project/>) 
>>>>>>>>>> explicitly state that these are two separate transactions, that is, 
>>>>>>>>>> Lincoln taxpayer dollars are not benefitting Civico. A prime example 
>>>>>>>>>> is this FAQ 
>>>>>>>>>> <https://www.lincolntown.org/1580/2025-Special-Town-Meeting> item 
>>>>>>>>>> from the town's website to understand this dynamic at play. Is the 
>>>>>>>>>> below factually correct? Yes. Does it hide the fact that Civico is 
>>>>>>>>>> getting land from Farrington, that they wouldn't otherwise have 
>>>>>>>>>> access to if CPA dollars were not at play? Also yes. 
>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>> Is any town funding going to the housing developer?  
>>>>>>>>>> <https://www.lincolntown.org/1580/2025-Special-Town-Meeting#>
>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>> No! Town CPA funds will be used for land conservation, not housing. 
>>>>>>>>>> The developer will pay market value for the land for the 
>>>>>>>>>> neighborhood.  As a side note, in 2025 the state is projected to 
>>>>>>>>>> provide a 20 - 25% match to our CPA funds.  CPA funds are explicitly 
>>>>>>>>>> intended to fund in full or subsidize this type of project.  These 
>>>>>>>>>> are existing funds and property taxes will not go up to fund the 
>>>>>>>>>> project.
>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>> <IMG_4404.png>
>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> ----- Forwarded Message -----
>>>>>>>>>>> From: Joseph Kolchinsky <[email protected] 
>>>>>>>>>>> <mailto:[email protected]>>
>>>>>>>>>>> To: Lincoln Talk <[email protected] 
>>>>>>>>>>> <mailto:[email protected]>>
>>>>>>>>>>> Sent: Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 06:39:02 AM EDT
>>>>>>>>>>> Subject: Re: [LincolnTalk] Supporting the Nature Link Project: A 
>>>>>>>>>>> Comprehensive Perspective from A Page Rd Abutter
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> I received a number of follow up questions and synthesized them 
>>>>>>>>>>> into a few addition in the document.  The live document can be 
>>>>>>>>>>> found here: https://docsend.com/view/h33hxc7zvdstqa2d
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> The two new Q&As are printed below.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Joey
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Why are town CPC funds being used instead of the developer 
>>>>>>>>>>> paying more?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: Think of this as a multi-party negotiation where each side is 
>>>>>>>>>>> acting in its own best interest. Civico is contributing $3.3M - the 
>>>>>>>>>>> max they believe makes financial sense. If the project were more 
>>>>>>>>>>> profitable, they’d likely offer more. But they’ve judged the 
>>>>>>>>>>> risk/reward and capped their investment.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Meanwhile, Rural Land Foundation (RLF) has been the 
>>>>>>>>>>> conservation-focused voice at the table (which highly aligns with 
>>>>>>>>>>> the town’s interests), with no financial stake beyond conservation. 
>>>>>>>>>>> They’ve already contributed $500K and secured significant private 
>>>>>>>>>>> donations. They also negotiated to get Civico to give 12 acres into 
>>>>>>>>>>> permanent Conservation Restriction.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Could a Town representative have negotiated more? Maybe. But that’s 
>>>>>>>>>>> not how this deal was structured - and we don’t get to replay it. 
>>>>>>>>>>> The question now is whether we want to risk the entire deal falling 
>>>>>>>>>>> apart to test that theory.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> The $950K in CPC funds isn’t a gift to Civico - it’s an investment 
>>>>>>>>>>> in 77 acres of protected land, 65 from Farrington and 12 from 
>>>>>>>>>>> Civico. This land is prioritized in Lincoln’s 2017–2024 Open Space 
>>>>>>>>>>> & Recreation Plan. If we don’t use CPC funds here, they’ll be used 
>>>>>>>>>>> elsewhere because they’ve already been collected and set aside for 
>>>>>>>>>>> the purpose of land conservation and development.  So the question 
>>>>>>>>>>> is whether we want to put the money here or elsewhere and given the 
>>>>>>>>>>> value of conserving 77 acres of land I don’t think there’s a better 
>>>>>>>>>>> place to put it.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Isn’t this just a backdoor way for taxpayer money to benefit 
>>>>>>>>>>> Civico?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: It’s completely fair to ask this. When public funds are 
>>>>>>>>>>> requested, transparency and trust matter. Let’s lay it out plainly.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Civico is paying $3.3M in private funds to purchase land directly 
>>>>>>>>>>> from the Panetta family. That land includes three existing home 
>>>>>>>>>>> lots and the ability to build up to 20 modest homes on 
>>>>>>>>>>> already-cleared land. No public money is going to Civico. That’s 
>>>>>>>>>>> factually correct.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Now, here’s where the perception gets murky: the conservation 
>>>>>>>>>>> funding going to Farrington will, in part, enable a land swap that 
>>>>>>>>>>> results in Farrington giving Civico a one-acre septic easement and 
>>>>>>>>>>> two acres of land for development and in return getting access to 
>>>>>>>>>>> Page Road. That trade allows Farrington to continue its mission and 
>>>>>>>>>>> secure conservation for 65 of their acres. So yes - Civico benefits 
>>>>>>>>>>> indirectly. But that’s also how public-private partnerships work. 
>>>>>>>>>>> We balance capital investment, private gain, community support, and 
>>>>>>>>>>> public return: in this case, 77 acres of permanently protected 
>>>>>>>>>>> land, a new public trail, support for a non-profit, and a 
>>>>>>>>>>> community-scale housing project that the town needs.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> The idea that this is a “loophole” or an attempt to obscure the 
>>>>>>>>>>> facts assumes bad intent. From all public documentation, forums, 
>>>>>>>>>>> and FAQs, the structure has been disclosed transparently. It's 
>>>>>>>>>>> complex, but not hidden.  The complexity is a big reason why I put 
>>>>>>>>>>> this document together.
>>>>>>>>>>> Skepticism is healthy. But when public dollars are paired with 
>>>>>>>>>>> private investment, we should ask: Are we getting a good deal? In 
>>>>>>>>>>> this case, we secure conservation, trail access, watershed 
>>>>>>>>>>> protection, some moderate housing, and even end up supporting a 
>>>>>>>>>>> non-profit - all without raising any taxes or requiring substantial 
>>>>>>>>>>> compromise. That’s a balanced outcome worth serious consideration.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Joseph Kolchinsky
>>>>>>>>>>> 978-604-0827
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> On Wed, May 28, 2025 at 12:01 AM, Joseph Kolchinsky 
>>>>>>>>>>> <[email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> wrote:
>>>>>>>>>>> [This post in its entirety can be found here (https:/ / docsend. 
>>>>>>>>>>> com/ view/ h33hxc7zvdstqa2d 
>>>>>>>>>>> <https://docsend.com/view/h33hxc7zvdstqa2d>).  It's formatted for 
>>>>>>>>>>> an easier read and contains a number of images, links, and 
>>>>>>>>>>> references.  I will continue to update it with new questions and 
>>>>>>>>>>> answers as additional conversation develops and more information 
>>>>>>>>>>> becomes available.]
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Hello neighbors. I live on Page Road and abut the Farrington land. 
>>>>>>>>>>> Like some of you, I was skeptical of the Nature Link proposal at 
>>>>>>>>>>> first. But after spending real time with the details, I now believe 
>>>>>>>>>>> this is exactly the kind of thoughtful, balanced solution we need 
>>>>>>>>>>> in Lincoln. It protects land, supports an important non-profit, 
>>>>>>>>>>> adds needed housing, and most importantly it heads off far riskier 
>>>>>>>>>>> alternatives. Below I’ve laid out the top concerns I’ve heard and 
>>>>>>>>>>> why I believe this deal is the right move for our town.  Happy to 
>>>>>>>>>>> have thoughtful discourse and welcome open-minds to the 
>>>>>>>>>>> conversation.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> As you read on, I ask that you think of a phrase often used in the 
>>>>>>>>>>> non-profit world:
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Things happen to you, for you, or because of you.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> As a community, if we want to move our missions forward and take 
>>>>>>>>>>> advantage of this opportunity, we need to take proactive steps to 
>>>>>>>>>>> pounce on this opportunity and make it happen because of us.  No 
>>>>>>>>>>> one is going to step in and do this work for us.  And, if left to 
>>>>>>>>>>> chance, alternative outcomes are likely to, happen to us, and they 
>>>>>>>>>>> likely won't be nearly as good as what I believe the Nature Link 
>>>>>>>>>>> project achieves.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Top Reasons to Support the Nature Link Project
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> +Conservation at scale: 77 acres of ecologically valuable land will 
>>>>>>>>>>> be permanently protected from future development, preserving 
>>>>>>>>>>> forests, wetlands, and trail systems for generations.  This is the 
>>>>>>>>>>> largest undeveloped, forested, and unprotected area in Lincoln.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> +Secures Farrington's future: This deal stabilizes a non-profit 
>>>>>>>>>>> with a mission to connect under-resourced youth with nature, 
>>>>>>>>>>> allowing them to continue their work and stay in Lincoln.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> +Adds relatively affordable homes: 20 modest homes (replacing 3 
>>>>>>>>>>> existing, 17 net) provide much-needed "missing middle" housing 
>>>>>>>>>>> stock, helping young families and downsizing seniors stay in 
>>>>>>>>>>> Lincoln.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> +Miles of trails will be made permanently available to all Lincoln 
>>>>>>>>>>> residents through the conservation land carved out by this deal.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> +Supports 40B compliance: Some units will be income-restricted, 
>>>>>>>>>>> helping the town meet its Chapter 40B obligations.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> +Avoids Dover Amendment-risk: By putting Farrington into 
>>>>>>>>>>> conservation and giving Farrington financial stability, we 
>>>>>>>>>>> substantially reduce the looming risk of institutional-scale 
>>>>>>>>>>> development on that land under the Dover Amendment.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> +What’s good enough for Cambridge is good for us:  While "no septic 
>>>>>>>>>>> system" is better than any septic system, the City of Cambridge has 
>>>>>>>>>>> the most to lose here given they depend on the clean watershed to 
>>>>>>>>>>> protect the reservoir as their water source - and they fully 
>>>>>>>>>>> support this plan and are putting $800k in to back it up.  If the 
>>>>>>>>>>> people drinking the water support this to mitigate future risk, I 
>>>>>>>>>>> think we should be aware of that future risk and support mitigating 
>>>>>>>>>>> it, too.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> +Realistic traffic impact: Estimated traffic increase is ~5-10%, a 
>>>>>>>>>>> nominal amount that doesn't warrant the concern.  See further below 
>>>>>>>>>>> for my analysis on the numbers.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> +Transparent, enforceable plan: This is a tightly structured, 
>>>>>>>>>>> multi-party agreement with baked-in protections, approvals, and 
>>>>>>>>>>> community oversight - not an open-ended blank check to a developer. 
>>>>>>>>>>>  Farrington's land is put into conservation through deeds and 
>>>>>>>>>>> Conservation Restrictions (CRs), the developer is locked into 
>>>>>>>>>>> approved plans, and Farrington's use of the access road to Page Rd 
>>>>>>>>>>> expires upon any transfer of ownership so it can't be used in the 
>>>>>>>>>>> future by other parties.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> +As a direct neighbor to this project, I don’t take change lightly. 
>>>>>>>>>>> I will see and feel the impacts of 17 new homes more than most. It 
>>>>>>>>>>> would be easy for me to oppose any development next door. But I 
>>>>>>>>>>> choose to support Nature Link because I firmly believe it’s the 
>>>>>>>>>>> best path forward for our community as a whole. It’s a rare 
>>>>>>>>>>> instance where the community as a whole gets something positive: 
>>>>>>>>>>> Farrington gets the funds to sustain its nature programs, Lincoln 
>>>>>>>>>>> gets permanently protected land and walking trails, a thoughtful 
>>>>>>>>>>> developer gets to build much-needed starter homes, and new families 
>>>>>>>>>>> get a chance to make Lincoln their home.  I'm willing to support 
>>>>>>>>>>> the greater good and, based on recent discussions, believe most of 
>>>>>>>>>>> my Page Rd neighbors do as well.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> No plan is perfect, and it’s okay to have questions and doubts. 
>>>>>>>>>>> I’ve tried to address the major concerns with facts and respectful 
>>>>>>>>>>> reasoning further below. Our town’s discourse can certainly get 
>>>>>>>>>>> heated - but at the end of the day, I think we all share the same 
>>>>>>>>>>> love for Lincoln and want to see it thrive without losing what 
>>>>>>>>>>> makes it special. Nature Link is a compromise that achieves that, 
>>>>>>>>>>> by blending conservation and smart growth in a way that enhances 
>>>>>>>>>>> our community.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> I invite everyone to look at the official documents, ask hard 
>>>>>>>>>>> questions, and satisfy themselves on the details. From what I’ve 
>>>>>>>>>>> seen, the more you dig, the more this deal holds up as sensible and 
>>>>>>>>>>> forward-looking. I’ll be voting Yes at the Special Town Meeting on 
>>>>>>>>>>> June 25, and I encourage my fellow residents to consider doing the 
>>>>>>>>>>> same. Let’s seize this opportunity to protect a beautiful piece of 
>>>>>>>>>>> Lincoln while also shaping a future we can be proud of - one where 
>>>>>>>>>>> our children and new neighbors can enjoy the same natural beauty 
>>>>>>>>>>> and community spirit that drew us all here in the first place.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Thank you for reading, and I’m happy to discuss further with an 
>>>>>>>>>>> open mind and mutual respect.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Joseph (and Jennifer) Kolchinsky at 83 Page Rd
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> If you’d like to add your name in support of this perspective, 
>>>>>>>>>>> please do so by filling out this form.  https:/ / forms. gle/ 
>>>>>>>>>>> JFWdWUzbbdR9mUtC9 <https://forms.gle/JFWdWUzbbdR9mUtC9>
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> I pose the following questions further below.
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: What are the motives of the various parties in this transaction?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Why can’t this be simpler if the focus is on conservation?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Why can’t Farrington simply repair/improve the Rt 2 egress?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Most of the land is already wetlands. Why do we need to worry 
>>>>>>>>>>> about conservation?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Is this project getting special treatment from the town?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Why didn’t we know about this sooner?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Why aren’t we provided with more options?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Will 17 new housing units create too much traffic on page road?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: How does 17 new homes now mean less development later?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Can we trust the developer, Civico?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Why should we support a developer making a profit on land we 
>>>>>>>>>>> want for conservation?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Is the housing actually affordable? Who will these homes be for?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Will the conservation land be truly protected and will the 
>>>>>>>>>>> trails be open to the public?
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: What if we do nothing? What’s the risk of inaction?
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: What are the motives of the various parties in this transaction?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: There are economic, community, social, environmental, and 
>>>>>>>>>>> utility benefits for many parties.  At first it felt overly 
>>>>>>>>>>> complex, but as I dug in to learn more I came to appreciate why 
>>>>>>>>>>> this project involved each entity.  It balances many aligned 
>>>>>>>>>>> interests, including mine as a Page Rd resident.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> See attached chart titled Parties to the Nature Link Project.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> <5a4592ab-dbf7-4464-97e6-5c081c75daed.png>
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Why can’t this be simpler if the focus is on conservation?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: At first glance, a straightforward deal - funding Farrington in 
>>>>>>>>>>> exchange for conservation - might seem like the easiest path. But 
>>>>>>>>>>> the key to understanding this proposal is recognizing Farrington’s 
>>>>>>>>>>> need for access to Page Road (see image attached). Their current 
>>>>>>>>>>> exit onto Route 2 is suboptimal, and without Page Road access, 
>>>>>>>>>>> Farrington has made clear they are not interested in this deal.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> <2b35f295-689f-45b6-b2d8-6a2e3e8b54df.png>
>>>>>>>>>>> See attached image titled Farrington Access Road which highlights 
>>>>>>>>>>> the access road in orange.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Farrington could sell their land outright for a higher price and 
>>>>>>>>>>> relocate outside of Lincoln. The Dover Amendment allows religious 
>>>>>>>>>>> or educational institutions who might buy the to override zoning - 
>>>>>>>>>>> leaving us without say on future use. The Panettas will move on and 
>>>>>>>>>>> sell to someone else, likely removing any chance for 
>>>>>>>>>>> community-driven benefit.  What brings the cost down - and opens 
>>>>>>>>>>> the door to permanent conservation - is Farrington’s willingness to 
>>>>>>>>>>> stay in exchange for a second egress in combination with a 
>>>>>>>>>>> developer’s interest in purchasing Panetta’s land.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> The only viable access to Page Road is through the Panetta 
>>>>>>>>>>> property. The Panettas are willing to sell, but understandably, 
>>>>>>>>>>> they want a certain price in exchange, which they’ve set at $3.3M. 
>>>>>>>>>>> Multiple developers engaged in negotiation, but only Civico was 
>>>>>>>>>>> willing to pay the price the Panettas set and participate in the 
>>>>>>>>>>> process. While the Panettas could sell independently, this is a 
>>>>>>>>>>> rare chance for the community to tie their sale to a broader 
>>>>>>>>>>> community outcome: conservation, housing, and infrastructure, all 
>>>>>>>>>>> in one.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Yes, other options may exist, but this opportunity has a shelf 
>>>>>>>>>>> life. If the deal fails, each party will do what’s best for them. 
>>>>>>>>>>> Farrington may sell, opening the door to higher-impact development 
>>>>>>>>>>> under the Dover Amendment. The Panettas may move on, taking the 
>>>>>>>>>>> chance for a coordinated solution with them.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Nature Link is a community-forged compromise: it protects open 
>>>>>>>>>>> space, supports mixed-income housing, sustains a local nonprofit, 
>>>>>>>>>>> and gives Lincoln control over what happens next.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Why can’t Farrington simply repair/improve the Rt 2 egress?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: While Route 2 access is a challenge, it’s not the core issue for 
>>>>>>>>>>> Farrington. What they truly need - and have been consistent about - 
>>>>>>>>>>> is access to Page Road, not an upgrade to their current exit.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Even with improvements to Rt 2, Farrington is not willing to stay 
>>>>>>>>>>> in Lincoln without Page Road access. Without it, they’ve indicated 
>>>>>>>>>>> they would likely sell the land - potentially for $7-$10M - and 
>>>>>>>>>>> relocate elsewhere.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> That outcome puts the community at risk of a Dover 
>>>>>>>>>>> Amendment-related sale, where a religious or educational 
>>>>>>>>>>> institution could bypass local zoning. Such a development could 
>>>>>>>>>>> bring greater environmental disruption, threaten watershed 
>>>>>>>>>>> protections, and increase Page Road traffic as drivers to a future 
>>>>>>>>>>> school or place of worship avoid Rt 2’s Bedford Rd U-turn and 
>>>>>>>>>>> instead cut through Trapelo and Page.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Most of the land is already wetlands. Why do we need to worry 
>>>>>>>>>>> about conservation?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: It’s a good question - but wetlands protection and Conservation 
>>>>>>>>>>> Restrictions (CRs) are not the same, especially in scope, 
>>>>>>>>>>> permanence, and enforceability.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Wetlands are regulated under state law (like the Massachusetts 
>>>>>>>>>>> Wetlands Protection Act), which limits building near sensitive 
>>>>>>>>>>> areas. But these protections are regulatory, not permanent. Wetland 
>>>>>>>>>>> boundaries can shift, and permits can still be granted - especially 
>>>>>>>>>>> if an applicant shows limited impact. And laws can be amended over 
>>>>>>>>>>> time, which means protections can weaken.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> A Conservation Restriction is different. It’s a legal agreement 
>>>>>>>>>>> tied to the deed, permanently limiting how the land can be used - 
>>>>>>>>>>> regardless of ownership or zoning changes. It can’t be undone 
>>>>>>>>>>> without approval from the state and the CR holder.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Bottom line: wetlands protection controls what’s allowed today 
>>>>>>>>>>> while a Conservation Restriction locks in protections forever - 
>>>>>>>>>>> ensuring the land stays open, natural, and undeveloped. If the goal 
>>>>>>>>>>> is long-term preservation, CRs are the only real guarantee and are 
>>>>>>>>>>> worth finding compromise to achieve.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Is this project getting special treatment from the town?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: No. Some concerns have been raised about “special treatment” or 
>>>>>>>>>>> bypassing town process - but this project is following the exact 
>>>>>>>>>>> path laid out in Lincoln’s zoning bylaws, specifically through the 
>>>>>>>>>>> North Lincoln Overlay District, which was created by Town Meeting 
>>>>>>>>>>> in 1986 (and approved with ⅔ vote) and subsequently approved by the 
>>>>>>>>>>> Massachusetts Attorney General at the time.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> The overlay was designed to encourage creative, controlled 
>>>>>>>>>>> development in North Lincoln, where growth potential existed but 
>>>>>>>>>>> required thoughtful planning. Over the years, the town has added 
>>>>>>>>>>> other overlays for wetlands, wireless infrastructure, and solar 
>>>>>>>>>>> development - tools created to address specific needs through 
>>>>>>>>>>> structured, public processes.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> The North Lincoln Overlay specifically allows developers to propose 
>>>>>>>>>>> site-specific plans that undergo:
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Rigorous review by the Planning Board, environmental and traffic 
>>>>>>>>>>> studies, municipal impact analysis, and approval by a ⅔ vote at a 
>>>>>>>>>>> Special Town Meeting.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> I recently read the full application requirements for the North 
>>>>>>>>>>> Lincoln Overlay District in the Town of Lincoln’s Zoning Bylaws - 
>>>>>>>>>>> it spans ten pages starting on Page 32 (Section 12.5). The process 
>>>>>>>>>>> includes detailed plans, public presentations, and ongoing 
>>>>>>>>>>> oversight. Once approved by ⅔ super majority at the Town Meeting on 
>>>>>>>>>>> June 25, any future changes require Planning Board approval.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> This isn’t a shortcut - if anything, it’s a high bar. The overlay 
>>>>>>>>>>> was built to allow for public benefit through structured 
>>>>>>>>>>> development, and that’s exactly how it’s being used here: to lock 
>>>>>>>>>>> in conservation protections, establish trail access, and cap 
>>>>>>>>>>> development at 20 homes with pre-approved designs. The developer 
>>>>>>>>>>> cannot expand or change the plan without full review and approval.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> And crucially, this process protects us from the Dover Amendment, 
>>>>>>>>>>> which could otherwise allow large, zoning-exempt institutions to 
>>>>>>>>>>> develop this land. By using the overlay to structure a deal that 
>>>>>>>>>>> places the majority of the land under conservation restrictions, we 
>>>>>>>>>>> retain control and align the outcome with Lincoln’s values.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Why didn’t we know about this sooner?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: It’s important to remember that this began as a private 
>>>>>>>>>>> transaction between private parties. The Town’s involvement is 
>>>>>>>>>>> limited to zoning approval - specifically, the creation of the 
>>>>>>>>>>> North Lincoln Planned Development District and the issuance of a 
>>>>>>>>>>> Special Permit. Until that stage, the private entities are legally 
>>>>>>>>>>> entitled to work through the details independently.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> The zoning bylaws outline what happens next. Once the Planning 
>>>>>>>>>>> Board approves the application, the Town is required to host a 
>>>>>>>>>>> Special Town Meeting and send a town-wide mailing at least 14 days 
>>>>>>>>>>> in advance:
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> “In addition to the notices required by law, a description of the 
>>>>>>>>>>> preliminary plan and notice of such hearing, including reduced 
>>>>>>>>>>> reproductions of architectural renderings and of the site plan, all 
>>>>>>>>>>> in form approved by the Planning Board, shall be mailed to each 
>>>>>>>>>>> postal patron in the Town at least 14 days prior to such hearing.”
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Until that notification window, no formal public outreach is 
>>>>>>>>>>> required. However, recognizing the complexity and potential 
>>>>>>>>>>> community interest, the Rural Land Foundation began a public 
>>>>>>>>>>> communications effort more than two months in advance of the Town 
>>>>>>>>>>> Meeting. They’ve since hosted (or scheduled) a dozen in-person and 
>>>>>>>>>>> virtual sessions to inform and engage residents.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> This goes well beyond what is required, and includes shared 
>>>>>>>>>>> recordings and transparent Q&A sessions. In short, while the formal 
>>>>>>>>>>> process hasn’t fully kicked in yet, the project sponsors have made 
>>>>>>>>>>> a concerted and good-faith effort to inform the community well 
>>>>>>>>>>> ahead of schedule.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Why aren’t we provided with more options?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: It’s not the responsibility of private citizens to present 
>>>>>>>>>>> multiple alternatives. Under the North Lincoln Overlay District, 
>>>>>>>>>>> anyone can propose a project, meet the requirements, and seek 
>>>>>>>>>>> approval at Town Meeting. If voters want other options, they’re 
>>>>>>>>>>> free to pursue them - but that doesn’t mean this proposal isn’t 
>>>>>>>>>>> valid.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> That said, this deal has a shelf life. The Panettas and Farrington 
>>>>>>>>>>> are ready to move forward - and they don’t have the luxury of 
>>>>>>>>>>> waiting. If this falls through, they’ll act in their own interests, 
>>>>>>>>>>> which likely means no conservation, no housing diversity, and a 
>>>>>>>>>>> missed opportunity to shape the outcome ourselves.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Farrington needs financial stability and will likely seek a buyer. 
>>>>>>>>>>> A sale in the $7-$10M range is feasible - especially for a 
>>>>>>>>>>> Dover-exempt institution - but much harder for the town to match. 
>>>>>>>>>>> Today’s deal costs far less and offers real protections - if we’re 
>>>>>>>>>>> willing to meet in the middle.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Will 17 new housing units create too much traffic on page road?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: Seventeen net-new housing units will add traffic, but I believe 
>>>>>>>>>>> the impact will be modest. With three homes already on the 
>>>>>>>>>>> property, the net change is 17 homes. Traffic studies estimate each 
>>>>>>>>>>> unit generates 8-10 vehicle trips per day (vpd) - about 170 vpd 
>>>>>>>>>>> total. Page Road (with its 100 homes and convenient cut through 
>>>>>>>>>>> from Trapelo to Rt 2) likely handles over 2,000 vpd today, so this 
>>>>>>>>>>> is only a 5-10% increase. With that said, I have two little kids 
>>>>>>>>>>> and so wish they could be biking on Page Rd safely and hesitate to 
>>>>>>>>>>> allow them to do that already, so I understand the concern and 
>>>>>>>>>>> still believe this is an appropriate increase given the value of 
>>>>>>>>>>> the rest of the project.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> And consider the alternative: if this deal falls through, we could 
>>>>>>>>>>> face a Dover Amendment-related development on Farrington land, like 
>>>>>>>>>>> a religious or educational campus. That kind of use could generate 
>>>>>>>>>>> far more traffic, especially as large volumes of cars, likely at 
>>>>>>>>>>> peak times, try to access the property via Trapelo > Page > Rt 2.  
>>>>>>>>>>> If that happens I will for sure regret that we didn’t find a way to 
>>>>>>>>>>> accept this deal.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: How does 17 new homes now mean less development later?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: It may seem counterintuitive, but building 17 net new homes now 
>>>>>>>>>>> actually reduces long-term development risk - while permanently 
>>>>>>>>>>> protecting more of Lincoln’s rural character.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> While the current zoning allows only three homes on the Panetta 
>>>>>>>>>>> property, there are no conservation protections on Farrington’s 
>>>>>>>>>>> land. Lincoln has already identified this as the largest 
>>>>>>>>>>> unprotected forest block in town and placed it high in its priority 
>>>>>>>>>>> list per the Open Space and Recreation Plan in 2017. Without 
>>>>>>>>>>> action, Farrington could sell, and the land could be redeveloped 
>>>>>>>>>>> under the Dover Amendment, which allows religious and educational 
>>>>>>>>>>> institutions to bypass zoning.  If you're unsure what this could 
>>>>>>>>>>> look like in our neighborhood, look at this temple in Belmont or 
>>>>>>>>>>> read this analysis on its impact to Massachusetts towns/cities.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> A deeded conservation restriction is our only permanent safeguard.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Nature Link proposes 20 total homes - including 17 new units - on 
>>>>>>>>>>> already cleared land, while protecting over 77 acres (65 from 
>>>>>>>>>>> Farrington and 12 from Panetta). Only about one acre is used for 
>>>>>>>>>>> septic, in exchange for safeguarding forests, wetlands, and trails 
>>>>>>>>>>> forever.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> And this isn’t just conservation - it also provides “missing 
>>>>>>>>>>> middle” housing, the kind Lincoln lacks.  It gives young families 
>>>>>>>>>>> and downsizing seniors a way to stay in Lincoln - in-line with 
>>>>>>>>>>> Lincoln’s character and community-oriented feel.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Can we trust the developer, Civico?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: Healthy skepticism is important - but so is acknowledging the 
>>>>>>>>>>> goodwill, oversight, and enforceable structure that shape this 
>>>>>>>>>>> proposal.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Civico has worked closely with the Rural Land Foundation, the 
>>>>>>>>>>> Panetta family, and Farrington to navigate a complex, multi-party 
>>>>>>>>>>> agreement. Bringing a project like this together isn’t simple - and 
>>>>>>>>>>> it doesn’t happen without collaboration and transparency.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> More importantly, this deal isn’t based on trust alone. It will be 
>>>>>>>>>>> codified through zoning bylaws, conservation restrictions, and 
>>>>>>>>>>> developer agreements. The North Lincoln Overlay District locks in 
>>>>>>>>>>> the number of homes, layout, and land preservation. Any changes 
>>>>>>>>>>> would require coming back to the Town for approval.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> And with Lincoln’s track record of detailed Planning Board and 
>>>>>>>>>>> Conservation Commission review, every septic line, drainage system, 
>>>>>>>>>>> and house footprint will be scrutinized. We're not handing over 
>>>>>>>>>>> control - we're managing it with oversight and legally binding 
>>>>>>>>>>> plans.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Why should we support a developer making a profit on land we 
>>>>>>>>>>> want for conservation?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: Because real, lasting conservation often requires balancing 
>>>>>>>>>>> social good with economic sustainability - and that means welcoming 
>>>>>>>>>>> partners who can make the math work.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Civico is a for-profit company, yes - but in this project, they’re 
>>>>>>>>>>> also a financial enabler of conservation and housing outcomes the 
>>>>>>>>>>> town values. The Panetta family is asking $3.3M for their land. If 
>>>>>>>>>>> the community could raise that ourselves - and fund the access road 
>>>>>>>>>>> to Page Road - we wouldn’t need Civico. But if we can't, we need a 
>>>>>>>>>>> partner who can.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Civico is willing to put up the $3.3M in exchange for the ability 
>>>>>>>>>>> to develop housing under the North Lincoln Overlay District. They 
>>>>>>>>>>> cannot do that under current zoning, which is why the offer of one 
>>>>>>>>>>> acre for septic, and the potential overlay designation are 
>>>>>>>>>>> essential to making the deal viable. In return, we gain:
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> +A permanent conservation restriction protecting 75+ acres and 
>>>>>>>>>>> providing public trails,
>>>>>>>>>>> +17 new mixed-income housing units for families and downsizing 
>>>>>>>>>>> seniors,
>>>>>>>>>>> +and a path forward that keeps Farrington on its land, doing its 
>>>>>>>>>>> mission.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Most major conservation deals over the last 60 years have included 
>>>>>>>>>>> a development component. That’s because conservation doesn't fund 
>>>>>>>>>>> itself - unless the community pays, it often needs economic 
>>>>>>>>>>> activity to subsidize it. In this case, the housing helps create 
>>>>>>>>>>> the opportunity for the land protection.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Even the use of CPC funds reflects this blend: these funds can only 
>>>>>>>>>>> support open space, affordable housing, and historic preservation. 
>>>>>>>>>>> In this case the CPA funds will be directed for only the land 
>>>>>>>>>>> conservation portion of this project with 77 acres conserved, 
>>>>>>>>>>> however the town will also get 3 income-restricted homes that will 
>>>>>>>>>>> be fully funded by the Developer.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> The result isn’t pure profit - it’s shared benefit. Conservation, 
>>>>>>>>>>> housing, and community values, aligned through a partnership that 
>>>>>>>>>>> makes it possible.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Is the housing actually affordable? Who will these homes be for?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: The 20 planned homes are designed as “starter homes” by Lincoln 
>>>>>>>>>>> standards - smaller, more modest, and more accessible than typical 
>>>>>>>>>>> multi-million-dollar properties. Three units will be designated 
>>>>>>>>>>> income-restricted  at 80% of Average Median Income (AMI); the rest 
>>>>>>>>>>> aim to serve middle-income buyers: young families priced out of 
>>>>>>>>>>> town and seniors looking to downsize.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Lincoln’s own housing plan identifies this missing middle - condos, 
>>>>>>>>>>> townhomes, and smaller homes for non-luxury buyers - as a critical 
>>>>>>>>>>> gap. Nature Link helps close that gap with smaller lots and 
>>>>>>>>>>> efficient design, offering options between luxury builds and 
>>>>>>>>>>> deed-restricted affordable housing.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> These homes won’t be affordable in every sense, but they are far 
>>>>>>>>>>> more attainable than what’s currently being built in the town. 
>>>>>>>>>>> Three units will count toward our 10% 40B requirement, and the rest 
>>>>>>>>>>> support a diverse, sustainable community.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Bottom line: this brings in new neighbors who enrich our town, 
>>>>>>>>>>> instead of limiting access to only the highest bidder. That’s a win 
>>>>>>>>>>> for Lincoln’s values of inclusion and community.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: Will the conservation land be truly protected and will the 
>>>>>>>>>>> trails be open to the public?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: Yes. A key reason I support this project is the lasting 
>>>>>>>>>>> protection it gives land that might otherwise be developed. The 
>>>>>>>>>>> deal puts permanent Conservation Restrictions on 65 acres of 
>>>>>>>>>>> Farrington and 12 acres of Panetta land. These legally binding 
>>>>>>>>>>> agreements, held by the Land Trust or Town, prohibit future 
>>>>>>>>>>> development - permanently.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Farrington will retain ownership but will be limited to educational 
>>>>>>>>>>> and low-impact uses. If they ever sell, Page Road access is 
>>>>>>>>>>> removed, preventing future owners from intensifying use. The City 
>>>>>>>>>>> of Cambridge is also investing in this project to protect its 
>>>>>>>>>>> watershed - clear evidence that this plan aligns with environmental 
>>>>>>>>>>> goals. Only one acre is used for septic, and all construction must 
>>>>>>>>>>> meet state, local, and Lincoln’s all-electric building codes - 
>>>>>>>>>>> likely an improvement over the existing homes codes, requiring them 
>>>>>>>>>>> to be all electric, which is likely an improvement on the existing 
>>>>>>>>>>> homes on the property.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> This plan also opens access to previously private land. A 1.5-mile 
>>>>>>>>>>> public trail will extend  through the property and connect to the 
>>>>>>>>>>> Osborne Conservation Area and out to Page Road. As an abutter, I’m 
>>>>>>>>>>> glad neighbors can enjoy this space. Trail and land access will be 
>>>>>>>>>>> open to all Lincoln residents, not just the new homeowners.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> All protections - CRs, trail access, septic boundaries - will be 
>>>>>>>>>>> detailed in the Town Meeting warrant. If anything is unclear, we 
>>>>>>>>>>> should demand clarification before voting. But from what I’ve seen, 
>>>>>>>>>>> the deal is clear: conserve land, open trails, allow minimal 
>>>>>>>>>>> development.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> —----------------
>>>>>>>>>>> Q: What if we do nothing? What’s the risk of inaction?
>>>>>>>>>>> A: This may be the most important question. If we reject this deal, 
>>>>>>>>>>> we must be clear-eyed about what happens next. Farrington, who will 
>>>>>>>>>>> be committing 65 acres to conservation, is exploring sustainable 
>>>>>>>>>>> ways to continue its mission amid financial constraints. Without 
>>>>>>>>>>> this funding, they could shut down or sell. While some hope for an 
>>>>>>>>>>> all-conservation rescue, it’s speculative and far more expensive.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> The risk I don’t enjoy thinking about is one where the land gets 
>>>>>>>>>>> sold to an entity that invokes the Dover Amendment - a religious or 
>>>>>>>>>>> educational use that can bypass local zoning. Picture dorms, a 
>>>>>>>>>>> large school, or a church complex with little Town oversight. Open 
>>>>>>>>>>> space? Gone. Conservation? Gone. The public values we’re trying to 
>>>>>>>>>>> preserve - trails, ecology, housing - would be at greater risk.  
>>>>>>>>>>> See further above 
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> We’d lose control. And ironically, those opposing development now 
>>>>>>>>>>> might face more disruptive development later - on worse terms, with 
>>>>>>>>>>> fewer benefits.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Nature Link is a proactive, community-crafted solution. It gives 
>>>>>>>>>>> Farrington long-term viability, preserves land, adds modest housing 
>>>>>>>>>>> we shape, and avoids the Dover Amendment risk. And it’s backed by 
>>>>>>>>>>> the Rural Land Foundation, Farrington, the Panetta family, Civico, 
>>>>>>>>>>> the City of Cambridge, and many individuals I’ve spoken with.  Now 
>>>>>>>>>>> is the time to bring it home with the needed ⅔ supermajority vote 
>>>>>>>>>>> at the Special Town Meeting on June 25.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> Doing nothing isn’t preservation - it’s gambling. And the odds 
>>>>>>>>>>> aren’t in Lincoln’s favor if we go that route.
>>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>>> --
>>>>>>>>>>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>>>>>>>>>>> To post, send mail to [email protected]. 
>>>>>>>>>>> <mailto:[email protected].>
>>>>>>>>>>> Browse the archives at 
>>>>>>>>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
>>>>>>>>>>> Change your subscription settings at 
>>>>>>>>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>>> --
>>>>>>>>>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>>>>>>>>>> To post, send mail to [email protected] 
>>>>>>>>>> <mailto:[email protected]>.
>>>>>>>>>> Browse the archives at 
>>>>>>>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
>>>>>>>>>> Change your subscription settings at 
>>>>>>>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
>>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>>> --
>>>>>>>>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>>>>>>>>> To post, send mail to [email protected] 
>>>>>>>>> <mailto:[email protected]>.
>>>>>>>>> Browse the archives at 
>>>>>>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
>>>>>>>>> Change your subscription settings at 
>>>>>>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
>>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>> --
>>>>>>>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>>>>>>>> To post, send mail to [email protected] 
>>>>>>>> <mailto:[email protected]>.
>>>>>>>> Browse the archives at 
>>>>>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/. Change your 
>>>>>>>> subscription settings at 
>>>>>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
>>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>>>> -- 
>>>>>>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>>>>>>> To post, send mail to [email protected] 
>>>>>>> <mailto:[email protected]>.
>>>>>>> Browse the archives at 
>>>>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
>>>>>>> Change your subscription settings at 
>>>>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
>>>>> 
>>>>> -- 
>>>>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>>>>> To post, send mail to [email protected] 
>>>>> <mailto:[email protected]>.
>>>>> Browse the archives at 
>>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
>>>>> Change your subscription settings at 
>>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
>>>>> 
>>>> -- 
>>>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>>>> To post, send mail to [email protected] 
>>>> <mailto:[email protected]>.
>>>> Browse the archives at https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
>>>> Change your subscription settings at 
>>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
>>>> 
>>> 
> 
> -- 
> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
> To post, send mail to [email protected].
> Browse the archives at https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
> Change your subscription settings at 
> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
> 

-- 
The LincolnTalk mailing list.
To post, send mail to [email protected].
Browse the archives at https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
Change your subscription settings at 
https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.

Reply via email to