[LincolnTalk] Transfer Station

[Donaldson, Susan]

The Transfer Station will be open regular hours on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 
and Saturday, November 25, 2023.

Susan Donaldson
Office Manager
Town of Lincoln
Department of Public Works
781-259-8999


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[LincolnTalk] Today is the last day to register to vote at the December 2, 2023 Special Town Meeting

[Fox, Valerie]

Hello,

Today is the last day to register to vote at the December 2, 2023 Special Town 
Meeting.  You can register online here https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/ or 
email the Town Clerk's Office at 
towncl...@lincolntown.org  for further 
assistance.

Reminder, you must be a registered voter to vote at Town Meeting.

Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving to all,

Valerie Fox
Town Clerk

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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Bijoy Misra]

What people are saying that The town would have to spend money
on the infrastructure first before creating a density for an eventual
help to the transit system.  People must be able to go to work.
The statistics said 7% work from home, 72% commute by car,
8% take the train.
Thank you for bringing it up.
Bijoy Misra

On Tue, Nov 21, 2023 at 7:14 PM Lis Herbert  wrote:

> I grew up riding Metro-North, and I understand that by comparison the
> Fitchburg line is not great. The frequency is a problem, and that in large
> part dictates the degree to which people depend on it, and their attitude
> towards it.
>
> But it’s not getting any better if we don’t comply. I think we can be sure
> of that, both because the demand won’t be sufficient, and we’ll have
> thumbed our noses at the idea of being a mass transit-oriented community.
>
> It’s not clear to me how somebody can wish for improvements to the
> commuter rail in Lincoln and not see that concentrating density around the
> train is the answer. (I’m not saying you’re a somebody, by the way, just
> pointing out that I’ve heard plenty of people trying to play both sides of
> the coin.)
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Nov 21, 2023, at 6:25 PM, V Saleme  wrote:
>
> 
> Those of us who commuted into the city for work from here, have been
> waiting for decades for improvements, frequency of service and reliability
> to occur.
>
> The waiting continues.
>
> Vic
>
> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023 at 6:09 PM Lis Herbert  wrote:
>
>> Nowhere does it say that the train has to stop in Lincoln. We might not
>> have a sense for how the state plans to approach the MBTA shortfalls, but I
>> think it's a certainty that unless Lincoln demonstrates a commitment to
>> meaningful density around the station, we can bet against improvements in
>> service and frequency for Lincoln commuters. I hope we can all at least
>> agree that improvements aren't happening if we vote to avoid rezoning much
>> of that area in favor of car-centric development (that will, let's be
>> honest, not happen) located (according to Google maps) an 8 mile, 15 minute
>> drive away.
>>
>> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023 at 5:33 PM Peter Buchthal 
>> wrote:
>>
>>> While I am happy to see some recognition that our MBTA needs
>>> investment,  I would like to point out the magnitude  and likelihood of the
>>> dollars we are talking about.  Regrettably, we are many, many years away
>>> from a properly functioning and reliable MBTA and commuter rail in Lincoln.
>>>
>>>
>>> According to the Boston Globe:
>>>
>>> "The MBTA needs a gobsmacking $24.5 billion to repair and replace its
>>> decrepit track, stations, trains, signals, and other assets, an agency
>>> analysis released Thursday shows, providing the long-awaited tally of how
>>> broken the transit system is."
>>>
>>> "The next most expensive is the commuter rail system, at about $8
>>> billion, with the bulk of investment needed for stations, followed by the
>>> Green and Mattapan lines — which need $4.7 billion."
>>>
>>> [image: image.png]
>>>
>>> List to the article:
>>> https://www.bostonglobe.com/2023/11/16/metro/cost-to-fix-mbta/
>>>
>>>
>>> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023 at 10:55 AM DJCP  wrote:
>>>
 After she was appointed permanent Transportation Secretary last week,
 Monica Tibbits-Nutt directly stated on Radio Boston that the Commonwealth
 would invest in communities that build around Commuter Rail stations.

 At about 7:10 in the segment linked here, Tiziana specifically asks
 about HCA, and at 8:50 the Secretary says Mass. will put the money where
 "the cities and towns do what needs to be done":
 https://www.wbur.org/radioboston/2023/11/13/monica-tibbits-nutt-massdot-sagamore-bourne-tobin-mbta-sumner

 At 5:20, the Secretary also talks about how the "inner core" needs to
 invest in housing so we can invest more in connecting places like
 Worcester.

 I think the whole segment is worth listening to, as she directly links
 housing to transportation.

 Diana
 Giles Rd
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[LincolnTalk] How many housing units at Lincoln Station?

[Laurie Gray]

I still feel relatively new to this HCA debate, but in the past few weeks I
have been following the debate closely as I am realizing how important it
is for the future of our town.  I have wondered if people appearing to be
on opposite sides of the debate are actually closer together than it
seems.  A question I have for Lincoln talk and the greater community is:
how many additional housing units do we want in Lincoln station?  I think
many agree we need additional housing in the Lincoln Station area but it is
unclear to me if people have widely different views on how much housing.
To me, it is hard to know what life would be like in Lincoln with more
housing units at the station, so I am in favor of an incremental approach,
where we can try out some number of units first and then make further
decisions at a later point.  But what is this number and how do we arrive
at this number?  What number is high enough to feel "substantial" but not
so high that we destroy quality of life?
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[LincolnTalk] If you are a fan of Anne Lamott…

[Sara Mattes]

…this is for.
If you are not familiar with her writing, here is an introduction.


https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/11/20/aging-acceptance-wisdom-albert-bierstadt/


Sent from my iPad
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[LincolnTalk] My Turn: Option E and more new housing

[Lynne Smith]

Below is my article published today in The Lincoln Squirrel


My Turn: Option E and More New Housing
November 22, 2023

By Lynne Smith

 
I support new and more affordable housing in Lincoln and I’d like to see some 
of it developed as the town has always done it, especially at the Lincoln Mall 
owned by the Rural Land Foundation. I would also like to see the preservation 
of our small retail area and a more vibrant commercial center.

The Lincoln Process: ~ 800 multifamily units over 60 years

At the Special Town Meeting on December 2, using ranked choice voting, Lincoln 
will select one option to be rezoned as required by the state’s Housing Choice 
Act (HCA). Lincoln’s HCA Working Group (HCAWG) will likely present five 
options, one of which was created by the recently formed Lincoln Residents for 
Housing Alternatives 
(LRHA) and is called 
Option E. Over the last 60 years, Lincoln has added almost 800 multifamily 
homes — 40% of our total number of housing units.* During this time, the town 
process allowed us to hold on to the rural character of our town while 
welcoming new families to moderately priced homes, accommodating older people 
in age-restricted developments, and insuring that over 15% of homes were 
“affordable.”

The Housing Choice Act: 635+ new units allowed

The HCA requires that Lincoln rezone to allow a minimum of 635 units and gives 
developers “by right” zoning, which means they can bypass approvals by the 
Planning Board, Zoning Board, and Town Meeting (editor’s note: as long as they 
adhere to some preexisting requirements concerning height, wetlands, etc.). A 
maximum of just 10% may be zoned as affordable. At 635 units, Lincoln is the 
only MBTA community in the state asked to zone for an amount of units over 25% 
 of 
its existing housing.  The reason is that the state model includes Hanscom 
housing in its calculation of Lincoln’s units although the town is not allowed 
to rezone any areas there.

My Conundrum

I have been struggling with this conundrum: I want new multifamily housing at 
market rate or below. I want to get credit for our many existing units. While I 
want some units developed soon, especially at the mall, I don’t want more than 
we can absorb and plan for all at once. Among many concerns, the following 
stand out for me.

Lincoln Mall: This precious part of town near Donelan’s and the MBTA commuter 
rail stop is the logical place for new housing. The Rural Land Foundation has 
asked to have it rezoned to allow for mixed-use residential and commercial 
buildings. Recently, the HCAWG and the Selects have proposed that a new warrant 
article in March could ensure that traffic studies, parking, affordability, 
retail spaces, and other considerations would follow the Lincoln approval 
process. Option E is the only option that excludes the mall from HCA rezoning 
and would allow the town to shape the outcome collaboratively with a developer.
Affordability: Lincoln is an expensive town, made more so by property taxes, 
which are not offset by commercial development, and by our wonderful 
conservation land, which increases land value. Because of today’s high 
construction costs, “luxury” condos and apartments are now the norm for 
developers who want to make a profit. HCA allows towns to require only 10% 
affordable units. If Lincoln wants more, this means the town must subsidize 
affordability as we did for Oriole Landing—or look for developers who have a 
good track record for building low-cost, high-quality, sustainable projects.The 
nonprofit Community Builders , current owners and 
operators of Lincoln Woods, are committed to that mission. Because Option E 
excludes the mall from HCA development, the town would be able to negotiate 
higher affordability while still actively allowing new housing and commercial 
spaces.
Compliance and existing multifamily areas: Lincoln should get recognition for 
its existing multifamily developments. Rezoning some of these areas is a 
reasonable way to gain compliance with HCA requirements, which would make 
Lincoln eligible for state funds for infrastructure improvements such as our 
badly needed replacement water mains. Option E includes Lincoln Woods, Battle 
Road Farm, and areas along Lincoln Road as part of HCA rezoning.
Informed decision on December 2

I believe we can find a way to comply with HCA rules and also develop new 
housing units, especially at the Lincoln Mall, without sacrificing our Lincoln 
process. Option E will help us do just that. It would divide redevelopment 
evenly between the village center (45.7%) and North Lincoln (54.3%), would 
fully comply with HCA requirements, would avoid allowing for a greater number 
of units than called for, a

Re: [LincolnTalk] Thanks re: Question Unanswered

[dgloew--- via Lincoln]

A most sincere thank you to all of you who reached out to me in response to my 
question.
Davida Loewenstein


Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS


On Tuesday, November 21, 2023, 12:56 PM, dgl...@aol.com  wrote:

Regarding the Housing choice decision, I submitted the same question twice to 
the HCAWG.  It was apparently sent to J.Glass, T. Higgins, J. Hutchinson and K. 
Bodner.  To date, the only answer I received was the “my feedback will be 
shared”.As an almost 50 year resident of Lincoln, I am disappointed and 
dismayed that my question has been disregarded.
The question I posed was: 
 I recall at some point hearing that a decision must be made by the town by 
December 2024.  Is that the case, and, if so, why do we seem to be under 
pressure to make a decision now?
This seems to me to be a factual question.  Prior to voting,I am hoping to 
receive an answer with no bias or agenda - just a straight forward answer.
Thanks to all.
Davida Loewenstein



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[LincolnTalk] FS: 2018 Toyota Rav4

[Rachel Drew]

Looking to sell a 2018 Toyota Rav4 Limited Edition SUV with 42,320 miles.
The car is in good condition and has never been in an accident. Asking
$19,900.
Thanks, Rachel
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[LincolnTalk] Housing Choice FAQs

[Jennifer Glass via Lincoln]

On behalf of the HCAWG Outreach Team, we wish you a relaxing holiday weekend.

- Jennifer, Gary, Kathy

2023 11 22 Housing Choice Act Working Group - FAQs
What is Option E? A group of residents submitted an option that was reviewed at 
the November 21st Housing Choice Act Working Group (HCAWG) meeting. Documents 
describing the option, as submitted, may be found in the documents section of 
the HCAWG web page 
(https://www.lincolntown.org/1327/Housing-Choice-Act-Working-Group).  The link 
to the meeting recording is here:  
https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/OWG-84wg0A5W2q8JB2fYWrWAoTq7sMmr4Mv8qCJRRMn0IV7INcFS1evLwQljYv8-.1lOpdFNjrb0Yvp2Q
 
Will property value assessments change with rezoning?  No. Properties are 
assessed based on their current use, not on future possible use.  If a 
neighbor’s property changes use, that still does not affect assessment.  
Assessments change when an individual property’s use changes.
 
Why is the commuter parking lot included in the Village Center subdistrict? All 
of the options developed by the HCAWG include the Village Center subdistrict 
which is comprised of the Mall (owned by the RLF), Doherty’s, and the two 
town-owned commuter parking lots (the resident lot and the one at the back of 
the Mall).
·   Both commuter lots are currently part of the South Lincoln overlay 
district. Keeping the lots in the Village Center overlay district is consistent 
with past practice and planning principles.
·   As the HCAWG has said from the beginning, and in keeping with planning 
discussions over the past several decades, including it in the Village Center 
subdistrict gives the town planning flexibility.
o   The Mall area is small (4 acres). Including the parking lot allows for more 
holistic planning.
o   Including it gives the Town leverage in conversations about how that area 
is redeveloped.
o   Residents have expressed strong support for developing moderate and 
affordable housing. Including the parking lot signals to the state and 
potential developers that Lincoln is serious about transit-oriented planning.  
This would help the Town gain access to housing development funding that is 
only available to municipalities.  This funding is what would make 
moderate/affordable housing possible.
o   It is also a signal to the MBTA that we are doing our part and expect them 
to do theirs when it comes to providing an accessible station and improved 
service. 
·   Because it is town-owned land, ANY change in use of the parking lot 
requires a 2/3 majority vote at a Town Meeting. This would still be true even 
if it is rezoned as part of the HCA. There is no downside to including it as 
part of a rational zoning process.
 
Is the vote for an option at the Special Town Meeting binding?  The HCAWG and 
the Select Board will consider the vote binding subject to any necessary 
technical changes needed for compliance.
·   No matter which option residents choose on December 2nd, the proposal 
will need to go through an initial compliance check by the Executive Office of 
Housing & Livable Communities (EOHLC). 
·   If changes must be made for compliance, they will be shared with 
residents as soon as possible before the March Annual Town Meeting.
 
Why are we voting in March when the deadline for compliance is December 2024?   
The Select Board and Planning Board began talking about the Housing Choice Act 
in January of 2022 when the legislation was passed 
(https://www.lincolntown.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_01312022-4365). The 
guidelines were finalized over the summer of 2022, and the Select Board 
appointed the Housing Choice Act Working Group in the fall.  The discussion and 
process has been ongoing for close to two years.  
In December 2022, the Town submitted an Action Plan to the state which was 
approved in January of 2023. The plan included a timeline for compliance, and 
the Town process is in keeping with the approved timeline which stated that 
work will be complete and ready for Town Meeting in March.
Compliance is a multi-step process and technically complex, making it important 
to allow time for each step in order to be compliant before the end of 2024.
1. Submit option to EOHLC for a preliminary compliance check at least 90 
days before a Town Meeting vote.
2. Approve HCA zoning at Town Meeting (majority vote required).
3. Submit approved warrant to the Attorney General.
4. Submit zoning to EOHLC for final determination of compliance.
 
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Margaret Olson]

Zoning bylaws cannot be bypassed except by “40b” development. Lincoln is
not subject to 40b as our SHI (subsidized housing index) is above 10%.
Again, our zoning and wetland bylaws and regulations cannot be bypassed.
Compliance with the HCA requires us modify the zoning for the HCA districts
but all other regulations stand.

On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 1:58 PM Scott Clary  wrote:

> Hello Lis,
>
> I am curious what what your definition of "meaningful density"
> (specifically, how many units). I've been paying fairly close attention and
> I've seen very few who are against complying with HCA and do not want to
> see any redevelopment of the mall/station area. To the contrary, I have
> mostly seen and heard residents advocating for redevelopment to include
> retail/commercial, mixed use and residential.
>
> But what would be the rationale for Lincoln residents to turn over the
> keys to the mall to a developer with "by right" zoning and having no say to
> affect the outcome. Most notably, maximum 10% affordability under HCA as
> opposed to 25% affordability we've always negotiated with developers as a
> town. If I have this right, affordability in Lincoln requires a family
> income of $116,000 (80% of of the median of $145,000). Some will argue that
> we can offset these numbers with our Housing Trust funds but wouldn't those
> funds be better used subsidizing those who really need it and not those
> earning $116,000?
>
> With all due respect to the newly appointed Transportation secretary, she
> is not going to wave a magic wand and fix a dysfunctional MBTA which has
> been dysfunctional for many years at the price tag of 24 billion dollars.
> It also takes legislation and what has legislation done to keep the MBTA
> functional to date? It is, I believe, short-sighted to think otherwise and
> that building excessively high density housing (the state model allows for
> max of 1125 and minimum of 635 housing units increasing our current housing
> stock count by a minimum of 25% +, by far the the most in the Commonwealth)
> ALL at the train station/mall with a decreased retail/commercial base is
> not going to solve much
> except dramatically change the landscape of that area and give Developers
> by right zoning. And as we learned yesterday at the planning board meeting,
> they are planning four story buildings for some sub districts, not just
> three story buildings as we had been previously informed. And please don't
> forget that it is proposed that our zoning bylaws can be bypassed in the
> form of 100 ft Wetland setback to 50 ft Wetland set back and negating our
> 25% max lot coverage and our building height Max of 36 ft and Frontage
> setbacks of 15 ft as opposed to current 25 ft, our current by law in other
> districts.
>
> Kind Regards,
>
> Scott Clary
> 617-968-5769
>
> Sent from a mobile device - please excuse typos and errors
>
> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023, 7:14 PM Lis Herbert  wrote:
>
>> I grew up riding Metro-North, and I understand that by comparison the
>> Fitchburg line is not great. The frequency is a problem, and that in large
>> part dictates the degree to which people depend on it, and their attitude
>> towards it.
>>
>> But it’s not getting any better if we don’t comply. I think we can be
>> sure of that, both because the demand won’t be sufficient, and we’ll have
>> thumbed our noses at the idea of being a mass transit-oriented community.
>>
>> It’s not clear to me how somebody can wish for improvements to the
>> commuter rail in Lincoln and not see that concentrating density around the
>> train is the answer. (I’m not saying you’re a somebody, by the way, just
>> pointing out that I’ve heard plenty of people trying to play both sides of
>> the coin.)
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
>> On Nov 21, 2023, at 6:25 PM, V Saleme  wrote:
>>
>> 
>> Those of us who commuted into the city for work from here, have been
>> waiting for decades for improvements, frequency of service and reliability
>> to occur.
>>
>> The waiting continues.
>>
>> Vic
>>
>> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023 at 6:09 PM Lis Herbert  wrote:
>>
>>> Nowhere does it say that the train has to stop in Lincoln. We might not
>>> have a sense for how the state plans to approach the MBTA shortfalls, but I
>>> think it's a certainty that unless Lincoln demonstrates a commitment to
>>> meaningful density around the station, we can bet against improvements in
>>> service and frequency for Lincoln commuters. I hope we can all at least
>>> agree that improvements aren't happening if we vote to avoid rezoning much
>>> of that area in favor of car-centric development (that will, let's be
>>> honest, not happen) located (according to Google maps) an 8 mile, 15 minute
>>> drive away.
>>>
>>> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023 at 5:33 PM Peter Buchthal 
>>> wrote:
>>>
 While I am happy to see some recognition that our MBTA needs
 investment,  I would like to point out the magnitude  and likelihood of the
 dollars we are talking about.  Regrettably, we are many, many 

Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Scott Clary]

Thank you for the clarification Margaret.

I did not articulate my point well but you just did - HCA requires us to
modify our zoning bylaws and this is exactly the reason why the mall should
not be included in HCA rezoning. But instead, keep our current, well
thought out zoning bylaws in place and allow public input via town meeting.

Kind Regards,

Scott Clary
617-968-5769

Sent from a mobile device - please excuse typos and errors

On Wed, Nov 22, 2023, 3:53 PM Margaret Olson  wrote:

> Zoning bylaws cannot be bypassed except by “40b” development. Lincoln is
> not subject to 40b as our SHI (subsidized housing index) is above 10%.
> Again, our zoning and wetland bylaws and regulations cannot be bypassed.
> Compliance with the HCA requires us modify the zoning for the HCA districts
> but all other regulations stand.
>
> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 1:58 PM Scott Clary 
> wrote:
>
>> Hello Lis,
>>
>> I am curious what what your definition of "meaningful density"
>> (specifically, how many units). I've been paying fairly close attention and
>> I've seen very few who are against complying with HCA and do not want to
>> see any redevelopment of the mall/station area. To the contrary, I have
>> mostly seen and heard residents advocating for redevelopment to include
>> retail/commercial, mixed use and residential.
>>
>> But what would be the rationale for Lincoln residents to turn over the
>> keys to the mall to a developer with "by right" zoning and having no say to
>> affect the outcome. Most notably, maximum 10% affordability under HCA as
>> opposed to 25% affordability we've always negotiated with developers as a
>> town. If I have this right, affordability in Lincoln requires a family
>> income of $116,000 (80% of of the median of $145,000). Some will argue that
>> we can offset these numbers with our Housing Trust funds but wouldn't those
>> funds be better used subsidizing those who really need it and not those
>> earning $116,000?
>>
>> With all due respect to the newly appointed Transportation secretary, she
>> is not going to wave a magic wand and fix a dysfunctional MBTA which has
>> been dysfunctional for many years at the price tag of 24 billion dollars.
>> It also takes legislation and what has legislation done to keep the MBTA
>> functional to date? It is, I believe, short-sighted to think otherwise and
>> that building excessively high density housing (the state model allows for
>> max of 1125 and minimum of 635 housing units increasing our current housing
>> stock count by a minimum of 25% +, by far the the most in the Commonwealth)
>> ALL at the train station/mall with a decreased retail/commercial base is
>> not going to solve much
>> except dramatically change the landscape of that area and give Developers
>> by right zoning. And as we learned yesterday at the planning board meeting,
>> they are planning four story buildings for some sub districts, not just
>> three story buildings as we had been previously informed. And please don't
>> forget that it is proposed that our zoning bylaws can be bypassed in the
>> form of 100 ft Wetland setback to 50 ft Wetland set back and negating our
>> 25% max lot coverage and our building height Max of 36 ft and Frontage
>> setbacks of 15 ft as opposed to current 25 ft, our current by law in other
>> districts.
>>
>> Kind Regards,
>>
>> Scott Clary
>> 617-968-5769
>>
>> Sent from a mobile device - please excuse typos and errors
>>
>> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023, 7:14 PM Lis Herbert  wrote:
>>
>>> I grew up riding Metro-North, and I understand that by comparison the
>>> Fitchburg line is not great. The frequency is a problem, and that in large
>>> part dictates the degree to which people depend on it, and their attitude
>>> towards it.
>>>
>>> But it’s not getting any better if we don’t comply. I think we can be
>>> sure of that, both because the demand won’t be sufficient, and we’ll have
>>> thumbed our noses at the idea of being a mass transit-oriented community.
>>>
>>> It’s not clear to me how somebody can wish for improvements to the
>>> commuter rail in Lincoln and not see that concentrating density around the
>>> train is the answer. (I’m not saying you’re a somebody, by the way, just
>>> pointing out that I’ve heard plenty of people trying to play both sides of
>>> the coin.)
>>>
>>> Sent from my iPhone
>>>
>>> On Nov 21, 2023, at 6:25 PM, V Saleme  wrote:
>>>
>>> 
>>> Those of us who commuted into the city for work from here, have been
>>> waiting for decades for improvements, frequency of service and reliability
>>> to occur.
>>>
>>> The waiting continues.
>>>
>>> Vic
>>>
>>> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023 at 6:09 PM Lis Herbert 
>>> wrote:
>>>
 Nowhere does it say that the train has to stop in Lincoln. We might not
 have a sense for how the state plans to approach the MBTA shortfalls, but I
 think it's a certainty that unless Lincoln demonstrates a commitment to
 meaningful density around the station, we can bet against improvements in
 service an

Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Sara Mattes]

Are you confirming that 100’ setbacks from wetlands will be accepted as 
required in HCA zoned areas as they are in the rest of town?
Please clarify.
Thank you.

--
Sara Mattes




> On Nov 22, 2023, at 3:53 PM, Margaret Olson  wrote:
> 
> Zoning bylaws cannot be bypassed except by “40b” development. Lincoln is not 
> subject to 40b as our SHI (subsidized housing index) is above 10%. Again, our 
> zoning and wetland bylaws and regulations cannot be bypassed. Compliance with 
> the HCA requires us modify the zoning for the HCA districts but all other 
> regulations stand.
> 
> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 1:58 PM Scott Clary  > wrote:
>> Hello Lis,
>> 
>> I am curious what what your definition of "meaningful density" 
>> (specifically, how many units). I've been paying fairly close attention and 
>> I've seen very few who are against complying with HCA and do not want to see 
>> any redevelopment of the mall/station area. To the contrary, I have mostly 
>> seen and heard residents advocating for redevelopment to include 
>> retail/commercial, mixed use and residential. 
>> 
>> But what would be the rationale for Lincoln residents to turn over the keys 
>> to the mall to a developer with "by right" zoning and having no say to 
>> affect the outcome. Most notably, maximum 10% affordability under HCA as 
>> opposed to 25% affordability we've always negotiated with developers as a 
>> town. If I have this right, affordability in Lincoln requires a family 
>> income of $116,000 (80% of of the median of $145,000). Some will argue that 
>> we can offset these numbers with our Housing Trust funds but wouldn't those 
>> funds be better used subsidizing those who really need it and not those 
>> earning $116,000?
>> 
>> With all due respect to the newly appointed Transportation secretary, she is 
>> not going to wave a magic wand and fix a dysfunctional MBTA which has been 
>> dysfunctional for many years at the price tag of 24 billion dollars. It also 
>> takes legislation and what has legislation done to keep the MBTA functional 
>> to date? It is, I believe, short-sighted to think otherwise and that 
>> building excessively high density housing (the state model allows for max of 
>> 1125 and minimum of 635 housing units increasing our current housing stock 
>> count by a minimum of 25% +, by far the the most in the Commonwealth) ALL at 
>> the train station/mall with a decreased retail/commercial base is not going 
>> to solve much
>> except dramatically change the landscape of that area and give Developers by 
>> right zoning. And as we learned yesterday at the planning board meeting, 
>> they are planning four story buildings for some sub districts, not just 
>> three story buildings as we had been previously informed. And please don't 
>> forget that it is proposed that our zoning bylaws can be bypassed in the 
>> form of 100 ft Wetland setback to 50 ft Wetland set back and negating our 
>> 25% max lot coverage and our building height Max of 36 ft and Frontage 
>> setbacks of 15 ft as opposed to current 25 ft, our current by law in other 
>> districts.
>> 
>> Kind Regards,
>> 
>> Scott Clary
>> 617-968-5769
>> 
>> Sent from a mobile device - please excuse typos and errors   
>> 
>> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023, 7:14 PM Lis Herbert > > wrote:
>>> I grew up riding Metro-North, and I understand that by comparison the 
>>> Fitchburg line is not great. The frequency is a problem, and that in large 
>>> part dictates the degree to which people depend on it, and their attitude 
>>> towards it.
>>> 
>>> But it’s not getting any better if we don’t comply. I think we can be sure 
>>> of that, both because the demand won’t be sufficient, and we’ll have 
>>> thumbed our noses at the idea of being a mass transit-oriented community.
>>> 
>>> It’s not clear to me how somebody can wish for improvements to the commuter 
>>> rail in Lincoln and not see that concentrating density around the train is 
>>> the answer. (I’m not saying you’re a somebody, by the way, just pointing 
>>> out that I’ve heard plenty of people trying to play both sides of the coin.)
>>> 
>>> Sent from my iPhone
>>> 
 On Nov 21, 2023, at 6:25 PM, V Saleme >>> > wrote:
 
 
 Those of us who commuted into the city for work from here, have been 
 waiting for decades for improvements, frequency of service and reliability 
 to occur. 
 
 The waiting continues.
 
 Vic
 
 On Tue, Nov 21, 2023 at 6:09 PM Lis Herbert >>> > wrote:
> Nowhere does it say that the train has to stop in Lincoln. We might not 
> have a sense for how the state plans to approach the MBTA shortfalls, but 
> I think it's a certainty that unless Lincoln demonstrates a commitment to 
> meaningful density around the station, we can bet against improvements in 
> service and frequency for Lincoln commuters. I hope we can all

Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Margaret Olson]

The HCA requires us to have zoning that complies with the HCA law. It does
not invalidate any of our regulations or by-laws.

I do not know what the state will or will not approve, either the attorney
general or the EOHLC. All zoning changes go to the AG. There are many
specifics in our zoning, both existing and proposed, that are not addressed
in the EOHLC guidelines. We will find out what they will approve when we
have passed a zoning by-law and request approval. I wish this were
otherwise but it is what it is.

As you may have seen in the FAQ posted earlier today by Jennifer Glass, the
uncertainty is why we need to pass the zoning in March - so we have time to
revise and vote again if necessary.


On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 4:17 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:

> Are you confirming that 100’ setbacks from wetlands will be accepted as
> required in HCA zoned areas as they are in the rest of town?
> Please clarify.
> Thank you.
>
> --
> Sara Mattes
>
>
>
>
> On Nov 22, 2023, at 3:53 PM, Margaret Olson  wrote:
>
> Zoning bylaws cannot be bypassed except by “40b” development. Lincoln is
> not subject to 40b as our SHI (subsidized housing index) is above 10%.
> Again, our zoning and wetland bylaws and regulations cannot be bypassed.
> Compliance with the HCA requires us modify the zoning for the HCA districts
> but all other regulations stand.
>
> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 1:58 PM Scott Clary 
> wrote:
>
>> Hello Lis,
>>
>> I am curious what what your definition of "meaningful density"
>> (specifically, how many units). I've been paying fairly close attention and
>> I've seen very few who are against complying with HCA and do not want to
>> see any redevelopment of the mall/station area. To the contrary, I have
>> mostly seen and heard residents advocating for redevelopment to include
>> retail/commercial, mixed use and residential.
>>
>> But what would be the rationale for Lincoln residents to turn over the
>> keys to the mall to a developer with "by right" zoning and having no say to
>> affect the outcome. Most notably, maximum 10% affordability under HCA as
>> opposed to 25% affordability we've always negotiated with developers as a
>> town. If I have this right, affordability in Lincoln requires a family
>> income of $116,000 (80% of of the median of $145,000). Some will argue that
>> we can offset these numbers with our Housing Trust funds but wouldn't those
>> funds be better used subsidizing those who really need it and not those
>> earning $116,000?
>>
>> With all due respect to the newly appointed Transportation secretary, she
>> is not going to wave a magic wand and fix a dysfunctional MBTA which has
>> been dysfunctional for many years at the price tag of 24 billion dollars.
>> It also takes legislation and what has legislation done to keep the MBTA
>> functional to date? It is, I believe, short-sighted to think otherwise and
>> that building excessively high density housing (the state model allows for
>> max of 1125 and minimum of 635 housing units increasing our current housing
>> stock count by a minimum of 25% +, by far the the most in the Commonwealth)
>> ALL at the train station/mall with a decreased retail/commercial base is
>> not going to solve much
>> except dramatically change the landscape of that area and give Developers
>> by right zoning. And as we learned yesterday at the planning board meeting,
>> they are planning four story buildings for some sub districts, not just
>> three story buildings as we had been previously informed. And please don't
>> forget that it is proposed that our zoning bylaws can be bypassed in the
>> form of 100 ft Wetland setback to 50 ft Wetland set back and negating our
>> 25% max lot coverage and our building height Max of 36 ft and Frontage
>> setbacks of 15 ft as opposed to current 25 ft, our current by law in other
>> districts.
>>
>> Kind Regards,
>>
>> Scott Clary
>> 617-968-5769
>>
>> Sent from a mobile device - please excuse typos and errors
>>
>> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023, 7:14 PM Lis Herbert  wrote:
>>
>>> I grew up riding Metro-North, and I understand that by comparison the
>>> Fitchburg line is not great. The frequency is a problem, and that in large
>>> part dictates the degree to which people depend on it, and their attitude
>>> towards it.
>>>
>>> But it’s not getting any better if we don’t comply. I think we can be
>>> sure of that, both because the demand won’t be sufficient, and we’ll have
>>> thumbed our noses at the idea of being a mass transit-oriented community.
>>>
>>> It’s not clear to me how somebody can wish for improvements to the
>>> commuter rail in Lincoln and not see that concentrating density around the
>>> train is the answer. (I’m not saying you’re a somebody, by the way, just
>>> pointing out that I’ve heard plenty of people trying to play both sides of
>>> the coin.)
>>>
>>> Sent from my iPhone
>>>
>>> On Nov 21, 2023, at 6:25 PM, V Saleme  wrote:
>>>
>>> 
>>> Those of us who commuted into the city for work from here, have been
>>> wa

Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Scott Clary]

When making critical long-lasting and impactful decisions regarding our
town, knowing the details beforehand would make a lot of sense.

As the guidelines keep changing and have not gone through a formal judicial
process and would be very difficult to enforce is all the more reason to
take our time and see how things play out on the state level and how other
towns are addressing HCA. Lincoln, please slow this process down and let's
get it right in the best interest of our incredible little town.

Kind Regards,

Scott Clary
617-968-5769

Sent from a mobile device - please excuse typos and errors

On Wed, Nov 22, 2023, 4:37 PM Margaret Olson  wrote:

> The HCA requires us to have zoning that complies with the HCA law. It does
> not invalidate any of our regulations or by-laws.
>
> I do not know what the state will or will not approve, either the attorney
> general or the EOHLC. All zoning changes go to the AG. There are many
> specifics in our zoning, both existing and proposed, that are not addressed
> in the EOHLC guidelines. We will find out what they will approve when we
> have passed a zoning by-law and request approval. I wish this were
> otherwise but it is what it is.
>
> As you may have seen in the FAQ posted earlier today by Jennifer Glass,
> the uncertainty is why we need to pass the zoning in March - so we have
> time to revise and vote again if necessary.
>
>
> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 4:17 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:
>
>> Are you confirming that 100’ setbacks from wetlands will be accepted as
>> required in HCA zoned areas as they are in the rest of town?
>> Please clarify.
>> Thank you.
>>
>> --
>> Sara Mattes
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On Nov 22, 2023, at 3:53 PM, Margaret Olson 
>> wrote:
>>
>> Zoning bylaws cannot be bypassed except by “40b” development. Lincoln is
>> not subject to 40b as our SHI (subsidized housing index) is above 10%.
>> Again, our zoning and wetland bylaws and regulations cannot be bypassed.
>> Compliance with the HCA requires us modify the zoning for the HCA districts
>> but all other regulations stand.
>>
>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 1:58 PM Scott Clary 
>> wrote:
>>
>>> Hello Lis,
>>>
>>> I am curious what what your definition of "meaningful density"
>>> (specifically, how many units). I've been paying fairly close attention and
>>> I've seen very few who are against complying with HCA and do not want to
>>> see any redevelopment of the mall/station area. To the contrary, I have
>>> mostly seen and heard residents advocating for redevelopment to include
>>> retail/commercial, mixed use and residential.
>>>
>>> But what would be the rationale for Lincoln residents to turn over the
>>> keys to the mall to a developer with "by right" zoning and having no say to
>>> affect the outcome. Most notably, maximum 10% affordability under HCA as
>>> opposed to 25% affordability we've always negotiated with developers as a
>>> town. If I have this right, affordability in Lincoln requires a family
>>> income of $116,000 (80% of of the median of $145,000). Some will argue that
>>> we can offset these numbers with our Housing Trust funds but wouldn't those
>>> funds be better used subsidizing those who really need it and not those
>>> earning $116,000?
>>>
>>> With all due respect to the newly appointed Transportation secretary,
>>> she is not going to wave a magic wand and fix a dysfunctional MBTA which
>>> has been dysfunctional for many years at the price tag of 24 billion
>>> dollars. It also takes legislation and what has legislation done to keep
>>> the MBTA functional to date? It is, I believe, short-sighted to think
>>> otherwise and that building excessively high density housing (the state
>>> model allows for max of 1125 and minimum of 635 housing units increasing
>>> our current housing stock count by a minimum of 25% +, by far the the most
>>> in the Commonwealth) ALL at the train station/mall with a decreased
>>> retail/commercial base is not going to solve much
>>> except dramatically change the landscape of that area and give
>>> Developers by right zoning. And as we learned yesterday at the planning
>>> board meeting, they are planning four story buildings for some sub
>>> districts, not just three story buildings as we had been previously
>>> informed. And please don't forget that it is proposed that our zoning
>>> bylaws can be bypassed in the form of 100 ft Wetland setback to 50 ft
>>> Wetland set back and negating our 25% max lot coverage and our building
>>> height Max of 36 ft and Frontage setbacks of 15 ft as opposed to current 25
>>> ft, our current by law in other districts.
>>>
>>> Kind Regards,
>>>
>>> Scott Clary
>>> 617-968-5769
>>>
>>> Sent from a mobile device - please excuse typos and errors
>>>
>>> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023, 7:14 PM Lis Herbert  wrote:
>>>
 I grew up riding Metro-North, and I understand that by comparison the
 Fitchburg line is not great. The frequency is a problem, and that in large
 part dictates the degree to which people depend on it, and

Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Sara Mattes]

Amen.
It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and not make 
any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a challenge to our 
wetlands bylaw.


--
Sara Mattes




> On Nov 22, 2023, at 4:46 PM, Scott Clary  wrote:
> 
> When making critical long-lasting and impactful decisions regarding our town, 
> knowing the details beforehand would make a lot of sense.
> 
> As the guidelines keep changing and have not gone through a formal judicial 
> process and would be very difficult to enforce is all the more reason to take 
> our time and see how things play out on the state level and how other towns 
> are addressing HCA. Lincoln, please slow this process down and let's get it 
> right in the best interest of our incredible little town. 
> 
> Kind Regards,
> 
> Scott Clary
> 617-968-5769
> 
> Sent from a mobile device - please excuse typos and errors   
> 
> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023, 4:37 PM Margaret Olson  > wrote:
>> The HCA requires us to have zoning that complies with the HCA law. It does 
>> not invalidate any of our regulations or by-laws. 
>> 
>> I do not know what the state will or will not approve, either the attorney 
>> general or the EOHLC. All zoning changes go to the AG. There are many 
>> specifics in our zoning, both existing and proposed, that are not addressed 
>> in the EOHLC guidelines. We will find out what they will approve when we 
>> have passed a zoning by-law and request approval. I wish this were otherwise 
>> but it is what it is.
>> 
>> As you may have seen in the FAQ posted earlier today by Jennifer Glass, the 
>> uncertainty is why we need to pass the zoning in March - so we have time to 
>> revise and vote again if necessary.
>> 
>> 
>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 4:17 PM Sara Mattes > > wrote:
>>> Are you confirming that 100’ setbacks from wetlands will be accepted as 
>>> required in HCA zoned areas as they are in the rest of town?
>>> Please clarify.
>>> Thank you.
>>> 
>>> --
>>> Sara Mattes
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
 On Nov 22, 2023, at 3:53 PM, Margaret Olson >>> > wrote:
 
 Zoning bylaws cannot be bypassed except by “40b” development. Lincoln is 
 not subject to 40b as our SHI (subsidized housing index) is above 10%. 
 Again, our zoning and wetland bylaws and regulations cannot be bypassed. 
 Compliance with the HCA requires us modify the zoning for the HCA 
 districts but all other regulations stand.
 
 On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 1:58 PM Scott Clary >>> > wrote:
> Hello Lis,
> 
> I am curious what what your definition of "meaningful density" 
> (specifically, how many units). I've been paying fairly close attention 
> and I've seen very few who are against complying with HCA and do not want 
> to see any redevelopment of the mall/station area. To the contrary, I 
> have mostly seen and heard residents advocating for redevelopment to 
> include retail/commercial, mixed use and residential. 
> 
> But what would be the rationale for Lincoln residents to turn over the 
> keys to the mall to a developer with "by right" zoning and having no say 
> to affect the outcome. Most notably, maximum 10% affordability under HCA 
> as opposed to 25% affordability we've always negotiated with developers 
> as a town. If I have this right, affordability in Lincoln requires a 
> family income of $116,000 (80% of of the median of $145,000). Some will 
> argue that we can offset these numbers with our Housing Trust funds but 
> wouldn't those funds be better used subsidizing those who really need it 
> and not those earning $116,000?
> 
> With all due respect to the newly appointed Transportation secretary, she 
> is not going to wave a magic wand and fix a dysfunctional MBTA which has 
> been dysfunctional for many years at the price tag of 24 billion dollars. 
> It also takes legislation and what has legislation done to keep the MBTA 
> functional to date? It is, I believe, short-sighted to think otherwise 
> and that building excessively high density housing (the state model 
> allows for max of 1125 and minimum of 635 housing units increasing our 
> current housing stock count by a minimum of 25% +, by far the the most in 
> the Commonwealth) ALL at the train station/mall with a decreased 
> retail/commercial base is not going to solve much
> except dramatically change the landscape of that area and give Developers 
> by right zoning. And as we learned yesterday at the planning board 
> meeting, they are planning four story buildings for some sub districts, 
> not just three story buildings as we had been previously informed. And 
> please don't forget that it is proposed that our zoning bylaws can be 
> bypasse

Re: [LincolnTalk] HCA Bypass of Lincoln's Wetland Buffer

[Margaret Olson]

Jeff,
The HCAWG is just that - a working group. On December 2nd the town will
vote on which of the HCA compliance options they have developed that the
town will pursue. The implementation of that option is in the zoning by-law
and it is on the zoning by-law changes that the town will vote in March.
The wetlands protection is part of our general by-laws and there are no
plans to modify them. In any event they could only be modified through a
town meeting vote on the general by-laws specifically.

Assuming the HCA zoning passes at town meeting in March, the state will
then either approve or reject our HCA zoning. If in their view it achieves
the zoning requirements we have been given I expect they will approve it.
If it doesn't, they won't. If they determine that because of our wetlands
regulations we have not achieved our zoning requirements then we will have
choices: we can amend our wetlands by-law or we can amend (at a special
town meeting) our HCA zones to provide a sufficient number of units and
acreage to satisfy the state while maintaining our wetlands regulations. I
know better than to ever bet on town meeting, but I would be very surprised
if the town chose to amend the wetlands by-laws.

After the December 2nd vote on the town's prefered HCA policy the planning
board will finalize it's work on the text of the zoning that implements the
policy the town has chosen. The zoning by-law is not just setbacks and
heights, it includes permitted and not permitted uses, site plan review,
parking, and any controls (e.g. Floor Area Ratio or FAR) to ensure that the
legally buildable density matches the modeled density. This is detailed and
time consuming work. If you are interested in it (and it sounds like you
are) please attend the planning board public hearings once they are
scheduled.

Margaret

On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 4:31 PM Jeffrey  wrote:

> Margaret:
> What is the point of mentioning our bylaws cannot be bypassed except for
> HCA zoning? Isn't that the very point?
> The HCAWG is willing to drop our wetland buffer down to 50' on plots
> across from the Mall that are virtually on top of wetlands.
>
> Just because the State of Massachusetts has historically past standards
> does not mean that the HCAWG and the Town Selects should succumb to the
> State standard. You negotiate with the State especially with a standard
> that is already considered a scientific failure in terms of wetland
> protection. Most states have now moved to 150' to 1000' buffer zones.
>
> On these grounds alone, all the great work that the HCAWG, et.al, have
> done should be rejected. You are asking the residents of Lincoln to
> participate in very likely near-term environmental destruction. Fifty foot
> wetland barriers are being breached throughout the last decade; only
> developers support outdated buffer zones like Massachusetts' current
> standard.
>
> You should have stood up for the Town; this is very disappointing.
>
> Respectfully Yours,
> Jeffrey Lukowsky
>
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Rich Rosenbaum]

*It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.*

An alternative would be to take a different leap of faith that none of the
following happen:

 - we end up delaying so much that we miss the deadline for complying
 - we no longer qualify for state funding for needed repairs and
replacement of our past-the-expiration-date water mains
 - we end up with a bond to pay for a very, very large bill to keep clean
water flowing to our faucets

Rich
(speaking as a citizen of Lincoln)


On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:01 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:

> Amen.
> It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
> It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and not
> make any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a
> challenge to our wetlands bylaw.
>
>
> --
> Sara Mattes
>
>
>
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Sara Mattes]

There was no mention of not making every effort to comply.

It is how we approach that effort, and whether we expose wetlands to setbacks 
different than our current bylaw of 100’.

It is a huge leap of faith to include one of the most critical areas under 
consideration for HCA zoning-the mall.

We have been told that there will be a shrinkage in retail, and no guarantee it 
will be there in years to come.
We have been told there will plans produced.
I would like to see how those plans will be brought to life/guaranteed,  before 
I vote for  rezoning.
We have been told to trust
I have always operated under the principle of “trust, but verify.”
I want verification before I vote.

There are many ways to add housing and comply in a timely fashion.
And, listening to the Planning. Board meeting of the other night, it sounds 
like some of those housing is coming sooner, rather than later.
So, it is not s”simply a zoning exercise.” 

Can you answer the question about wetlands setbacks?
Can we maintain our 100 'set backs in HCA zoned areas?”
If we cannot answer that, I will want to take a close look at the various 
options proposals that include proximity to wetlands.

Also, can you please let us know about the timing of replacement of water 
mains, and the cost?
Do we have any information on the size of grants that have been made to towns 
like ours for such projects?

This is important as we are looking at being asked to vote for a Community 
Center where we pay 100% of the costs-$15-28 million.
Knowing how much additional  debt we might assume to pay for all or some 
portion of a water main would help in decision-making on that vote.

All this would contribute to our understanding of the big picture.

Thank you.


--
Sara Mattes




> On Nov 22, 2023, at 5:46 PM, Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:
> 
> 
> It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
> 
> An alternative would be to take a different leap of faith that none of the 
> following happen:
> 
>  - we end up delaying so much that we miss the deadline for complying
>  - we no longer qualify for state funding for needed repairs and replacement 
> of our past-the-expiration-date water mains
>  - we end up with a bond to pay for a very, very large bill to keep clean 
> water flowing to our faucets
> 
> Rich
> (speaking as a citizen of Lincoln)
> 
> 
> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:01 PM Sara Mattes  > wrote:
>> Amen.
>> It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
>> It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and not 
>> make any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a 
>> challenge to our wetlands bylaw.
>> 
>> 
>> --
>> Sara Mattes
>> 
>> 

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Re: [LincolnTalk] How many housing units at Lincoln Station?

[Susanna Szeto]

I totally agree the incremental approach and yet in compliant with the state 
HCA!  This is a very sensible approach in my thinking also!  I think lots of 
people would prefer this safe approach to changing Lincoln Station into a mini 
city with three story condos as prescribed in Option C.  Please go to the 
website LincolnHCA.org for more clear explanation of Option E.  Thank you for 
all those who care so deeply about the future of Lincoln!  As some residents 
had pointed out, once the buildings are there, it would not be possible to 
remove them!  We all have to think deep and hard and cast your vote on Dec 2 at 
town meeting!

Susanna S
Giles Road



> On Nov 22, 2023, at 8:20 AM, Laurie Gray  wrote:
> 
> 
> I still feel relatively new to this HCA debate, but in the past few weeks I 
> have been following the debate closely as I am realizing how important it is 
> for the future of our town.  I have wondered if people appearing to be on 
> opposite sides of the debate are actually closer together than it seems.  A 
> question I have for Lincoln talk and the greater community is: how many 
> additional housing units do we want in Lincoln station?  I think many agree 
> we need additional housing in the Lincoln Station area but it is unclear to 
> me if people have widely different views on how much housing.
> To me, it is hard to know what life would be like in Lincoln with more 
> housing units at the station, so I am in favor of an incremental approach, 
> where we can try out some number of units first and then make further 
> decisions at a later point.  But what is this number and how do we arrive at 
> this number?  What number is high enough to feel "substantial" but not so 
> high that we destroy quality of life?
> 
> --
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> 
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[LincolnTalk] Green Friday at deCordova: Family Hike

[Sarah Buyer]

Join us for a walk in nature at deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum. Outdoor 
instructor, Kate Hamm, will lead an all ages, all levels hikes for families. 
Explore flora, fauna and art in this unique landscape.

Family Hike: Gratitude and Awe
Friday, November 24, 2023, 11AM-12PM - Day after Thanksgiving

Opt Outside to enjoy nature and art while continuing the Thanksgiving Spirit. 
Gratitude helps us shift our focus to appreciate what we have. Awe reminds us 
of the beauty there is in the world. On this walk and hike around deCordova, 
we'll take some time to ponder both. See what captures your attention and 
notice the little details in the art and nature that inspire you.

Details and registration at: https://thetrustees.org/event/85855/






[cid:image001.png@01DA1D3A.53BB1850]
Sarah Buyer
Public Programming & Education Manager
she/her/hers
The Trustees | deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum
51 Sandy Pond Road |  Lincoln, MA 01773
sbu...@thetrustees.org | 781-259-3649 tel

[Title: 1497962045433_trustees_email-url.png]


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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Peter Buchthal]

It will take at least 10+ years before optimistically the commuter rail
becomes efficient and reliable.  If we push the goal posts out and require
a greener, electric, non diesel commuter rail, I hope to be still alive at
that point.

For a brief moment, let's think about other ways to get people off the
roads and onto Mass Transit from Lincoln. The red line will get better
before the commuter line.  So, let's see if we can move Lincoln commuters
efficiently to the red line.

https://128bc.org/schedules/alewife-route-a-south/
There are at least four buses that in the morning shuttle passengers from
the Alewife red line station to big office parks in Waltham/Lexington,
right on the Lincoln border.  They all return to Alewife to pick up their
next set of passengers completely empty.  The afternoon is the exact
opposite.  Lincoln commuters travel to Boston in the exact opposite to the
office park workers. If we work together with our neighbors, maybe Lincoln
commuters could get an express bus from Lincoln to Alewife in the morning,
and an express bus from Alewife to Lincoln in the afternoon.

Running optimally (hopefully in a few years), the red should take 15 to 20
minutes from Alewife to downtown Park Street.  Add in an express bus
to/from Alewife and that takes 15  minutes and we have a viable, efficient
mass transit link to the city that would actually reduce our carbon
footprint instead of waiting 10+ years

Let's open a discussion to improve Mass Transit to all Lincoln townspeople
with creative solutions, instead of putting all our eggs in the commuter
rail basket.

Peter Buchthal
Weston Rd.




On Tue, Nov 21, 2023 at 9:11 PM DJCP  wrote:

> I understand people have had bad experiences in the past but Governor
> Healey has hired a new General Manager, Philip Eng, and he's already doing
> great things. Sure, those things are catching up on a backlog of regular
> maintenance and fixing the Green Line Extension screw up where the tracks
> are too narrow, but I believe Healey is committed to making public
> transportation better. That was my point in posting the Radio Boston
> segment - an actual statement from a state official looking forward,
> instead of looking backward and relying on intuition.
>
> Diana
> Giles Rd
>
> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023, 8:14 PM slsweet830 via Lincoln <
> lincoln@lincolntalk.org> wrote:
>
>> What about the lack of handicapped accessibility? Years ago, as my
>> daughter struggled to get on the train here in Lincoln, a helpful.
>> conductor said that the plans to make the Lincoln stop handicapped
>> accessible was years away. She suggested we drive to Waltham's handicapped
>> accessible station.
>>
>> A certain number of housing units must be handicapped accessible, but our
>> train station is not. This is a problem.
>>
>>
>>
>> Sent from my Galaxy
>>
>>
>>  Original message 
>> From: Kathleen Lomatoski 
>> Date: 11/21/23 8:00 PM (GMT-05:00)
>> To: Margo Fisher-Martin 
>> Cc: Lincoln Talk 
>> Subject: Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build
>> Around Commuter Rail Stations
>>
>> I was a dedicated MBTA (via Alewife) and then a commuter rail rider for
>> many years from Lincoln to North Station. I tolerated decidedly not great
>> service and schedules, losing a lot of my daily time to delays, broken
>> trains, etc. (You don’t get the time back!) Generally many of us support
>> public transit yet admittedly the system needs massive resources to
>> improve/maintain the infrastructure and more. I do not see significant
>> improvements coming anytime in the near future, which is unfortunate. My
>> work in Boston was public facing; relying on the commuter rail was a
>> precarious choice, due to the frequent delays, odd train mishaps, and
>> frequently occurring out of service trains or staffing issues. Planning
>> some housing near transit makes sense yet I do not see that choice as one
>> that will compel necessary improvements in the short term especially.
>>
>> Kathleen Lomatoski
>>
>>
>> klomato...@gmail.com
>>
>> On Nov 21, 2023, at 7:25 PM, Margo Fisher-Martin <
>> margo.fisher.mar...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>
>> 
>> It’s not getting better even if we do comply.
>> I hate to say it, but it’s true.
>> And then if we do comply, we have a congested center with lousy service.
>> The system is corrupt. Just like the RMV.
>> Why should it get better just because there are new units there? The
>> state cannot manage funds. Hence the nickname Taxachusetts.
>> Sorry to be so negative, but the system is just going down the tubes.
>> They will have to address safety issues before they even look at service
>> issues.
>>
>>
>>
>> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023 at 7:13 PM Lis Herbert  wrote:
>>
>>> I grew up riding Metro-North, and I understand that by comparison the
>>> Fitchburg line is not great. The frequency is a problem, and that in large
>>> part dictates the degree to which people depend on it, and their attitude
>>> towards it.
>>>
>>> But it’s not getting any better

[LincolnTalk] Looking to buy used adult bike!

[Andrea Patton]

Hi neighbors - our college student had his bike stolen last week and is eager 
to replace his main mode of transportation! Does anyone have a bike to sell? He 
definitely doesn’t need mint condition - just wheels and something he can lock 
up…..
Thank you!
Andrea Patton 
Old Concord Rd
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[ٍSarah Postlethwait]

Are you also speaking as a member of Fin comm?

It would be much more transparent if members of town boards would include
their respective board in their email signature when commenting on town
matters in LincolnTalk (especially when voicing your own biased opinion).

It’s also worth noting that we are currently in compliance, and will be for
all of 2024 and qualify for all the funds being discussed.
If our water mains can’t last a couple more months after December 2024
until the town is able to make an informed decision, then why haven’t we
applied for these funds now while we are still in compliance?

This rush towards December 2024 is unnecessary. Especially when 4 story 48’
buildings with no lot limits (besides 25’ setbacks) at the mall are being
discussed in planning board meetings…

Sarah Postlethwait



On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:47 PM Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:

>
> *It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.*
>
> An alternative would be to take a different leap of faith that none of the
> following happen:
>
>  - we end up delaying so much that we miss the deadline for complying
>  - we no longer qualify for state funding for needed repairs and
> replacement of our past-the-expiration-date water mains
>  - we end up with a bond to pay for a very, very large bill to keep clean
> water flowing to our faucets
>
> Rich
> (speaking as a citizen of Lincoln)
>
>
> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:01 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:
>
>> Amen.
>> It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
>> It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and not
>> make any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a
>> challenge to our wetlands bylaw.
>>
>>
>> --
>> Sara Mattes
>>
>>
>> --
> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
> To post, send mail to Lincoln@lincolntalk.org.
> Browse the archives at https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/
> .
> Change your subscription settings at
> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
>
>
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Lynne Smith]

Peter,
I would call this great, creative thinking—but it almost seems like a 
no-brainer! Looks like we need a new committee: Lincoln Commuters for the Red 
Line.  I hope this will be looked into regardless of where the HCA takes us.
Thanks,
Lynne


Lynne Smith
5 Tabor Hill Road
Lincoln, MA 01773
cell:  781-258-1175
ly...@smith.net



> On Nov 22, 2023, at 8:56 AM, Peter Buchthal  wrote:
> 
> It will take at least 10+ years before optimistically the commuter rail 
> becomes efficient and reliable.  If we push the goal posts out and require a 
> greener, electric, non diesel commuter rail, I hope to be still alive at that 
> point.
> 
> For a brief moment, let's think about other ways to get people off the roads 
> and onto Mass Transit from Lincoln. The red line will get better before the 
> commuter line.  So, let's see if we can move Lincoln commuters efficiently to 
> the red line.
> 
> https://128bc.org/schedules/alewife-route-a-south/ 
> 
> There are at least four buses that in the morning shuttle passengers from the 
> Alewife red line station to big office parks in Waltham/Lexington, right on 
> the Lincoln border.  They all return to Alewife to pick up their next set of 
> passengers completely empty.  The afternoon is the exact opposite.  Lincoln 
> commuters travel to Boston in the exact opposite to the office park workers. 
> If we work together with our neighbors, maybe Lincoln commuters could get an 
> express bus from Lincoln to Alewife in the morning, and an express bus from 
> Alewife to Lincoln in the afternoon.   
> 
> Running optimally (hopefully in a few years), the red should take 15 to 20 
> minutes from Alewife to downtown Park Street.  Add in an express bus to/from 
> Alewife and that takes 15  minutes and we have a viable, efficient mass 
> transit link to the city that would actually reduce our carbon footprint 
> instead of waiting 10+ years 
> 
> Let's open a discussion to improve Mass Transit to all Lincoln townspeople 
> with creative solutions, instead of putting all our eggs in the commuter rail 
> basket.
> 
> Peter Buchthal
> Weston Rd.
> 
> 
> 
> 
> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023 at 9:11 PM DJCP  > wrote:
> I understand people have had bad experiences in the past but Governor Healey 
> has hired a new General Manager, Philip Eng, and he's already doing great 
> things. Sure, those things are catching up on a backlog of regular 
> maintenance and fixing the Green Line Extension screw up where the tracks are 
> too narrow, but I believe Healey is committed to making public transportation 
> better. That was my point in posting the Radio Boston segment - an actual 
> statement from a state official looking forward, instead of looking backward 
> and relying on intuition.
> 
> Diana 
> Giles Rd 
> 
> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023, 8:14 PM slsweet830 via Lincoln  > wrote:
> What about the lack of handicapped accessibility? Years ago, as my daughter 
> struggled to get on the train here in Lincoln, a helpful. conductor said that 
> the plans to make the Lincoln stop handicapped accessible was years away. She 
> suggested we drive to Waltham's handicapped accessible station.
> 
> A certain number of housing units must be handicapped accessible, but our 
> train station is not. This is a problem.
> 
> 
> 
> Sent from my Galaxy
> 
> 
>  Original message 
> From: Kathleen Lomatoski mailto:klomato...@gmail.com>>
> Date: 11/21/23 8:00 PM (GMT-05:00)
> To: Margo Fisher-Martin  >
> Cc: Lincoln Talk mailto:lincoln@lincolntalk.org>>
> Subject: Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around 
> Commuter Rail Stations
> 
> I was a dedicated MBTA (via Alewife) and then a commuter rail rider for many 
> years from Lincoln to North Station. I tolerated decidedly not great service 
> and schedules, losing a lot of my daily time to delays, broken trains, etc. 
> (You don’t get the time back!) Generally many of us support public transit 
> yet admittedly the system needs massive resources to improve/maintain the 
> infrastructure and more. I do not see significant improvements coming anytime 
> in the near future, which is unfortunate. My work in Boston was public 
> facing; relying on the commuter rail was a precarious choice, due to the 
> frequent delays, odd train mishaps, and frequently occurring out of service 
> trains or staffing issues. Planning some housing near transit makes sense yet 
> I do not see that choice as one that will compel necessary improvements in 
> the short term especially. 
> 
> Kathleen Lomatoski 
> 
> 
> klomato...@gmail.com 
> 
>> On Nov 21, 2023, at 7:25 PM, Margo Fisher-Martin 
>> mailto:margo.fisher.mar...@gmail.com>> wrote:
>> 
>> 
>> It’s not getting better even if we do comply.
>> I hate to say it, but it’s true. 
>> And then if we do comply, we have a congested cen

Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Sara Mattes]

Years back, I was one of the founders of the 128 Central Corridor 
Coalition-Weston, Waltham, Lincoln, Lexington & Burlington.
The new Sect.of DoT, Monica Tidbits-Nutt was on the committee with me.
She headed up the 128 Business Council and we talked often about how their 
shuttle service might be better utilized.
We recently reconnected and perhaps we/Lincoln  could explore this again.
Here is their current service:
https://128bc.org/schedules/
--
Sara Mattes




> On Nov 22, 2023, at 6:58 PM, Lynne Smith  wrote:
> 
> Peter,
> I would call this great, creative thinking—but it almost seems like a 
> no-brainer! Looks like we need a new committee: Lincoln Commuters for the Red 
> Line.  I hope this will be looked into regardless of where the HCA takes us.
> Thanks,
> Lynne
> 
> 
> Lynne Smith
> 5 Tabor Hill Road
> Lincoln, MA 01773
> cell:  781-258-1175
> ly...@smith.net 
> 
> 
> 
>> On Nov 22, 2023, at 8:56 AM, Peter Buchthal > > wrote:
>> 
>> It will take at least 10+ years before optimistically the commuter rail 
>> becomes efficient and reliable.  If we push the goal posts out and require a 
>> greener, electric, non diesel commuter rail, I hope to be still alive at 
>> that point.
>> 
>> For a brief moment, let's think about other ways to get people off the roads 
>> and onto Mass Transit from Lincoln. The red line will get better before the 
>> commuter line.  So, let's see if we can move Lincoln commuters efficiently 
>> to the red line.
>> 
>> https://128bc.org/schedules/alewife-route-a-south/
>> There are at least four buses that in the morning shuttle passengers from 
>> the Alewife red line station to big office parks in Waltham/Lexington, right 
>> on the Lincoln border.  They all return to Alewife to pick up their next set 
>> of passengers completely empty.  The afternoon is the exact opposite.  
>> Lincoln commuters travel to Boston in the exact opposite to the office park 
>> workers. If we work together with our neighbors, maybe Lincoln commuters 
>> could get an express bus from Lincoln to Alewife in the morning, and an 
>> express bus from Alewife to Lincoln in the afternoon.   
>> 
>> Running optimally (hopefully in a few years), the red should take 15 to 20 
>> minutes from Alewife to downtown Park Street.  Add in an express bus to/from 
>> Alewife and that takes 15  minutes and we have a viable, efficient mass 
>> transit link to the city that would actually reduce our carbon footprint 
>> instead of waiting 10+ years 
>> 
>> Let's open a discussion to improve Mass Transit to all Lincoln townspeople 
>> with creative solutions, instead of putting all our eggs in the commuter 
>> rail basket.
>> 
>> Peter Buchthal
>> Weston Rd.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023 at 9:11 PM DJCP > > wrote:
>>> I understand people have had bad experiences in the past but Governor 
>>> Healey has hired a new General Manager, Philip Eng, and he's already doing 
>>> great things. Sure, those things are catching up on a backlog of regular 
>>> maintenance and fixing the Green Line Extension screw up where the tracks 
>>> are too narrow, but I believe Healey is committed to making public 
>>> transportation better. That was my point in posting the Radio Boston 
>>> segment - an actual statement from a state official looking forward, 
>>> instead of looking backward and relying on intuition.
>>> 
>>> Diana 
>>> Giles Rd 
>>> 
>>> On Tue, Nov 21, 2023, 8:14 PM slsweet830 via Lincoln 
>>> mailto:lincoln@lincolntalk.org>> wrote:
 What about the lack of handicapped accessibility? Years ago, as my 
 daughter struggled to get on the train here in Lincoln, a helpful. 
 conductor said that the plans to make the Lincoln stop handicapped 
 accessible was years away. She suggested we drive to Waltham's handicapped 
 accessible station.
 
 A certain number of housing units must be handicapped accessible, but our 
 train station is not. This is a problem.
 
 
 
 Sent from my Galaxy
 
 
  Original message 
 From: Kathleen Lomatoski >>> >
 Date: 11/21/23 8:00 PM (GMT-05:00)
 To: Margo Fisher-Martin >>> >
 Cc: Lincoln Talk mailto:lincoln@lincolntalk.org>>
 Subject: Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build 
 Around Commuter Rail Stations
 
 I was a dedicated MBTA (via Alewife) and then a commuter rail rider for 
 many years from Lincoln to North Station. I tolerated decidedly not great 
 service and schedules, losing a lot of my daily time to delays, broken 
 trains, etc. (You don’t get the time back!) Generally many of us support 
 public transit yet admittedly the system needs massive resources to 
 improve/maintain the infrastructure and more. I do not see significant 
 improvements coming anytime in the near future, which

Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Lis Herbert]

It would likewise be much more transparent for proponents of E to identify themselves and their respective properties within the boundaries that have been drawn on Lewis Street, which appear to comprise just a handful of lots. Sent from my iPhoneOn Nov 22, 2023, at 6:32 PM, ٍSarah Postlethwait  wrote:Are you also speaking as a member of Fin comm?It would be much more transparent if members of town boards would include their respective board in their email signature when commenting on town matters in LincolnTalk (especially when voicing your own biased opinion).It’s also worth noting that we are currently in compliance, and will be for all of 2024 and qualify for all the funds being discussed.If our water mains can’t last a couple more months after December 2024 until the town is able to make an informed decision, then why haven’t we applied for these funds now while we are still in compliance? This rush towards December 2024 is unnecessary. Especially when 4 story 48’ buildings with no lot limits (besides 25’ setbacks) at the mall are being discussed in planning board meetings… Sarah Postlethwait On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:47 PM Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.An alternative would be to take a different leap of faith that none of the following happen: - we end up delaying so much that we miss the deadline for complying - we no longer qualify for state funding for needed repairs and replacement of our past-the-expiration-date water mains - we end up with a bond to pay for a very, very large bill to keep clean water flowing to our faucetsRich(speaking as a citizen of Lincoln)On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:01 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:Amen.It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and not make any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a challenge to our wetlands bylaw.
--Sara Mattes

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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Rich Rosenbaum]

*Are you also speaking as a member of Fin comm?*

See my byline.
By the way, all opinions are biased by definition.

On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 6:32 PM ٍSarah Postlethwait 
wrote:

> Are you also speaking as a member of Fin comm?
>
> It would be much more transparent if members of town boards would include
> their respective board in their email signature when commenting on town
> matters in LincolnTalk (especially when voicing your own biased opinion).
>
> It’s also worth noting that we are currently in compliance, and will be
> for all of 2024 and qualify for all the funds being discussed.
> If our water mains can’t last a couple more months after December 2024
> until the town is able to make an informed decision, then why haven’t we
> applied for these funds now while we are still in compliance?
>
> This rush towards December 2024 is unnecessary. Especially when 4 story
> 48’ buildings with no lot limits (besides 25’ setbacks) at the mall are
> being discussed in planning board meetings…
>
> Sarah Postlethwait
>
>
>
> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:47 PM Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:
>
>>
>> *It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.*
>>
>> An alternative would be to take a different leap of faith that none of
>> the following happen:
>>
>>  - we end up delaying so much that we miss the deadline for complying
>>  - we no longer qualify for state funding for needed repairs and
>> replacement of our past-the-expiration-date water mains
>>  - we end up with a bond to pay for a very, very large bill to keep clean
>> water flowing to our faucets
>>
>> Rich
>> (speaking as a citizen of Lincoln)
>>
>>
>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:01 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:
>>
>>> Amen.
>>> It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
>>> It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and
>>> not make any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a
>>> challenge to our wetlands bylaw.
>>>
>>>
>>> --
>>> Sara Mattes
>>>
>>>
>>> --
>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>> To post, send mail to Lincoln@lincolntalk.org.
>> Browse the archives at
>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
>> Change your subscription settings at
>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
>>
>>
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[LincolnTalk] Thankful to live in Lincoln

[John Mendelson]

We are all lucky to live here.  Now, how about a nice 4-day break from HCA
chatter on Lincoln Talk?

My in-box and peace of mind could use it.

John
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Karla Gravis]

The names of the 60+ supporters are available on the website, and have been
for weeks.
www.lincolnHCA.org

Supporters reside in all areas of Lincoln. You can easily look up addresses
using the names.

The lots included in Option E are also included in options C or D. We have
not included any parcels that were not considered by the HCAWG.

We removed North Lewis St at the request of the Lincoln Historical Society.
We removed 7 Ridge Rd because they are affordable rentals and would be at
risk of displacement. Note that the HCAWG options (C and Ds) DO include
this parcel despite this risk.

We also removed 148 Lincoln Rd since it is unnecessary to reach the
compliance target. Note that this is not dissimilar to the last iteration
of the Lincoln Rd district when the WG dropped 150 Lincoln Rd.



> -- Forwarded message -
> From: ٍSarah Postlethwait 
> Date: Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 9:06 PM
> Subject: Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build
> Around Commuter Rail Stations
> To: Lis Herbert 
> Cc: Lincoln Talk 
>
>
> My parcel is included in every single proposal from the HCAWG and option E.
> I am affected if every single option gets passed. And if I fought to
> exclude my land you would call me a NIMBY (as many already have).
>
> I do not look forward to the implications of being rezoned and having
> properties being sold around me affecting my property value and raising my
> taxes, but I am willing to do so to avoid having something as drastic as
> option C to be passed, which allows over 1100 units to be built in south
> Lincoln.
>
> Both North and South Lewis Street were included in option E originally
> since Lewis Street has been discussed to be rezoned for decades AND it’s
> included in every other proposal from the town. However North Lewis was
> excluded at the request of the Lincoln Historical Society since every
> property on the North side of Lewis is considered Historical.
>
> If you would like to learn more about the historical significance of North
> Lewis Street, I would highly recommend the attached article.
>
> Sarah Postlethwait
>
> Lewis Street
>
> Proponent of option E
>
>
>
> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 7:30 PM Lis Herbert  wrote:
>
>> It would likewise be much more transparent for proponents of E to
>> identify themselves and their respective properties within the boundaries
>> that have been drawn on Lewis Street, which appear to comprise just a
>> handful of lots.
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
>> On Nov 22, 2023, at 6:32 PM, ٍSarah Postlethwait 
>> wrote:
>>
>> 
>>
>> Are you also speaking as a member of Fin comm?
>>
>> It would be much more transparent if members of town boards would include
>> their respective board in their email signature when commenting on town
>> matters in LincolnTalk (especially when voicing your own biased opinion).
>>
>> It’s also worth noting that we are currently in compliance, and will be
>> for all of 2024 and qualify for all the funds being discussed.
>> If our water mains can’t last a couple more months after December 2024
>> until the town is able to make an informed decision, then why haven’t we
>> applied for these funds now while we are still in compliance?
>>
>> This rush towards December 2024 is unnecessary. Especially when 4 story
>> 48’ buildings with no lot limits (besides 25’ setbacks) at the mall are
>> being discussed in planning board meetings…
>>
>> Sarah Postlethwait
>>
>>
>>
>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:47 PM Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:
>>
>>>
>>> *It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.*
>>>
>>> An alternative would be to take a different leap of faith that none of
>>> the following happen:
>>>
>>>  - we end up delaying so much that we miss the deadline for complying
>>>  - we no longer qualify for state funding for needed repairs and
>>> replacement of our past-the-expiration-date water mains
>>>  - we end up with a bond to pay for a very, very large bill to keep
>>> clean water flowing to our faucets
>>>
>>> Rich
>>> (speaking as a citizen of Lincoln)
>>>
>>>
>>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:01 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:
>>>
 Amen.
 It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
 It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and
 not make any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a
 challenge to our wetlands bylaw.


 --
 Sara Mattes


 --
>>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>>> To post, send mail to Lincoln@lincolntalk.org.
>>> 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 Lincoln@lincolntalk.org.
>> 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 maili

Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Rich Rosenbaum]

*It would be much more transparent if members of town boards would include
their respective board in their email signature when commenting on town
matters in LincolnTalk (especially when voicing your own biased opinion).*

When speaking only for myself, I hesitate including mention of any
committee memberships. To some people it might seem that I am implying that
my (biased) opinion should be given greater weight (even if I indicate that
I am not speaking as a committee member, nor representing any position of
the committee).

My personal opinion should hold the same weight as that of anyone else, no
more, no less.

I have no special superpowers (unfortunately). Anyone can be as informed as
I am on town financial matters by attending our open committee meetings.
Since I have the additional responsibility of representing the citizens of
the Town of Lincoln to the best of my ability, I may do additional reading
and research but everyone can access the same resources that I can.

(In the spirit of John Mendelson's recent thoughtful note, I am happy to
table this discussion until after the holiday.)

Rich, speaking just for myself


‪On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 6:32 PM ‫ٍSarah Postlethwait‬‎ 
wrote:‬

> Are you also speaking as a member of Fin comm?
>
> It would be much more transparent if members of town boards would include
> their respective board in their email signature when commenting on town
> matters in LincolnTalk (especially when voicing your own biased opinion).
>
> It’s also worth noting that we are currently in compliance, and will be
> for all of 2024 and qualify for all the funds being discussed.
> If our water mains can’t last a couple more months after December 2024
> until the town is able to make an informed decision, then why haven’t we
> applied for these funds now while we are still in compliance?
>
> This rush towards December 2024 is unnecessary. Especially when 4 story
> 48’ buildings with no lot limits (besides 25’ setbacks) at the mall are
> being discussed in planning board meetings…
>
> Sarah Postlethwait
>
>
>
> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:47 PM Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:
>
>>
>> *It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.*
>>
>> An alternative would be to take a different leap of faith that none of
>> the following happen:
>>
>>  - we end up delaying so much that we miss the deadline for complying
>>  - we no longer qualify for state funding for needed repairs and
>> replacement of our past-the-expiration-date water mains
>>  - we end up with a bond to pay for a very, very large bill to keep clean
>> water flowing to our faucets
>>
>> Rich
>> (speaking as a citizen of Lincoln)
>>
>>
>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:01 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:
>>
>>> Amen.
>>> It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
>>> It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and
>>> not make any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a
>>> challenge to our wetlands bylaw.
>>>
>>>
>>> --
>>> Sara Mattes
>>>
>>>
>>> --
>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>> To post, send mail to Lincoln@lincolntalk.org.
>> Browse the archives at
>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
>> Change your subscription settings at
>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
>>
>>
-- 
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Change your subscription settings at 
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Rich Rosenbaum]

*Also, can you please let us know about the timing of replacement of water
mains, and the cost?*
*Do we have any information on the size of grants that have been made to
towns like ours for such projects?*

Some rough figures:

Interestingly, Lincoln's public water supply system dates back to 1874. My
understanding (from memory) is that some of our current  water mains date
back to the first half of the last century (I can do more research if
someone would like more definitive data).

Current estimates for water main replacement is approximately $8M/mile.
Lincoln has over 50 miles of water mains (I am not implying that all of it
is due for replacement).

Regarding state grants for water supply improvements, here are a few of the
public water supply related grants as of 2023 (some of these may partially
be low/no interest loans):

CONCORD
Lead Service Line Replacements Project
$2,000,000

ANDOVER
Lead Service Line Replacement
$4,050,000

WINCHENDON
Water Transmission Main Replacement
$9,560,000

FALL RIVER
Lead Service Line Replacement
$4,150,000

LITTLETON WATER DEPARTMENT
Water Supply Main Extension Littleton/Boxborough
$19,078,000

*Source:
https://www.mass.gov/doc/2023-final-drinking-water-intended-use-plan/download
*


On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 6:07 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:

> *There was no mention of not making every effort to comply.*
>
> It is how we approach that effort, and whether we expose wetlands to
> setbacks different than our current bylaw of 100’.
>
> It is a huge leap of faith to include one of the most critical areas under
> consideration for HCA zoning-the mall.
>
> We have been told that there will be a shrinkage in retail, and no
> guarantee it will be there in years to come.
> We have been told there will plans produced.
> I would like to see how those plans will be brought to life/guaranteed,
>  before I vote for  rezoning.
> We have been told to trust
> I have always operated under the principle of “trust, but verify.”
> I want verification before I vote.
>
> There are many ways to add housing and comply in a timely fashion.
> And, listening to the Planning. Board meeting of the other night, it
> sounds like some of those housing is coming sooner, rather than later.
> So, it is not s”simply a zoning exercise.”
>
> Can you answer the question about wetlands setbacks?
> Can we maintain our 100 'set backs in HCA zoned areas?”
> If we cannot answer that, I will want to take a close look at the various
> options proposals that include proximity to wetlands.
>
> Also, can you please let us know about the timing of replacement of water
> mains, and the cost?
> Do we have any information on the size of grants that have been made to
> towns like ours for such projects?
>
> This is important as we are looking at being asked to vote for a Community
> Center where we pay 100% of the costs-$15-28 million.
> Knowing how much additional  debt we might assume to pay for all or some
> portion of a water main would help in decision-making on that vote.
>
> All this would contribute to our understanding of the big picture.
>
> Thank you.
>
>
> --
> Sara Mattes
>
>
>
>
> On Nov 22, 2023, at 5:46 PM, Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:
>
>
> *It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.*
>
> An alternative would be to take a different leap of faith that none of the
> following happen:
>
>  - we end up delaying so much that we miss the deadline for complying
>  - we no longer qualify for state funding for needed repairs and
> replacement of our past-the-expiration-date water mains
>  - we end up with a bond to pay for a very, very large bill to keep clean
> water flowing to our faucets
>
> Rich
> (speaking as a citizen of Lincoln)
>
>
> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:01 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:
>
>> Amen.
>> It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
>> It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and not
>> make any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a
>> challenge to our wetlands bylaw.
>>
>>
>> --
>> Sara Mattes
>>
>>
>>
>
-- 
The LincolnTalk mailing list.
To post, send mail to Lincoln@lincolntalk.org.
Browse the archives at https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
Change your subscription settings at 
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Scott Clary]

I've heard the word "sad" used often but more by one side than the other
and I think this is really sad how our town is being divided. I have real
friends on both sides who I care for. Please, can't we be respectful of
each other. As a volunteer in several capacities in this town, I don't
think I've ever met anyone I did not like. We are all good people. Please
let's all remember this. We may have different views but we're all
passionate and really care about our special humble little town. EVERYONE'S
voice is important.

Kind Regards,

Scott Clary
617-968-5769

Sent from a mobile device - please excuse typos and errors

On Wed, Nov 22, 2023, 9:32 PM Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:

> *It would be much more transparent if members of town boards would include
> their respective board in their email signature when commenting on town
> matters in LincolnTalk (especially when voicing your own biased opinion).*
>
> When speaking only for myself, I hesitate including mention of any
> committee memberships. To some people it might seem that I am implying that
> my (biased) opinion should be given greater weight (even if I indicate that
> I am not speaking as a committee member, nor representing any position of
> the committee).
>
> My personal opinion should hold the same weight as that of anyone else, no
> more, no less.
>
> I have no special superpowers (unfortunately). Anyone can be as informed
> as I am on town financial matters by attending our open committee meetings.
> Since I have the additional responsibility of representing the citizens of
> the Town of Lincoln to the best of my ability, I may do additional reading
> and research but everyone can access the same resources that I can.
>
> (In the spirit of John Mendelson's recent thoughtful note, I am happy to
> table this discussion until after the holiday.)
>
> Rich, speaking just for myself
>
>
> ‪On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 6:32 PM ‫ٍSarah Postlethwait‬‎ 
> wrote:‬
>
>> Are you also speaking as a member of Fin comm?
>>
>> It would be much more transparent if members of town boards would include
>> their respective board in their email signature when commenting on town
>> matters in LincolnTalk (especially when voicing your own biased opinion).
>>
>> It’s also worth noting that we are currently in compliance, and will be
>> for all of 2024 and qualify for all the funds being discussed.
>> If our water mains can’t last a couple more months after December 2024
>> until the town is able to make an informed decision, then why haven’t we
>> applied for these funds now while we are still in compliance?
>>
>> This rush towards December 2024 is unnecessary. Especially when 4 story
>> 48’ buildings with no lot limits (besides 25’ setbacks) at the mall are
>> being discussed in planning board meetings…
>>
>> Sarah Postlethwait
>>
>>
>>
>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:47 PM Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:
>>
>>>
>>> *It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.*
>>>
>>> An alternative would be to take a different leap of faith that none of
>>> the following happen:
>>>
>>>  - we end up delaying so much that we miss the deadline for complying
>>>  - we no longer qualify for state funding for needed repairs and
>>> replacement of our past-the-expiration-date water mains
>>>  - we end up with a bond to pay for a very, very large bill to keep
>>> clean water flowing to our faucets
>>>
>>> Rich
>>> (speaking as a citizen of Lincoln)
>>>
>>>
>>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:01 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:
>>>
 Amen.
 It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
 It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and
 not make any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a
 challenge to our wetlands bylaw.


 --
 Sara Mattes


 --
>>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>>> To post, send mail to Lincoln@lincolntalk.org.
>>> 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 Lincoln@lincolntalk.org.
> Browse the archives at https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/
> .
> Change your subscription settings at
> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
>
>
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Change your subscription settings at 
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[ٍSarah Postlethwait]

Let me reiterate the most important part of my email- why have we not
applied for funding for the water mains if they are needed to be
immediately replaced? We are in compliance with the HCA now and qualify for
the MassWorks grant, and we will be in compliance until at least Dec 2024.

If we waited until March 2025 town meeting to vote on the HCA proposal, we
would only fail to be compliant for 3 months… and great news! The Massworks
grant deadline is in June, so those 3 months of noncompliance wouldn’t even
restrict us from applying for the Massworks grant in 2025 to cover the
pipes.

Furthermore, when you are on town boards and committees, your opinions are
influential and can carry additional implications beyond what a normal
citizen expressing their opinion would have. Especially when there is a
quorum of members of your committee listening to your opinions, as there
are on LincolnTalk. This is why I think it’s important to also include the
board(s) or committee(s) that you represent when sharing your opinions on
town matters (especially those topics that are in your committee’s purview).


Sarah Postlethwait

Lewis Street



On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 9:31 PM Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:

> *It would be much more transparent if members of town boards would include
> their respective board in their email signature when commenting on town
> matters in LincolnTalk (especially when voicing your own biased opinion).*
>
> When speaking only for myself, I hesitate including mention of any
> committee memberships. To some people it might seem that I am implying that
> my (biased) opinion should be given greater weight (even if I indicate that
> I am not speaking as a committee member, nor representing any position of
> the committee).
>
> My personal opinion should hold the same weight as that of anyone else, no
> more, no less.
>
> I have no special superpowers (unfortunately). Anyone can be as informed
> as I am on town financial matters by attending our open committee meetings.
> Since I have the additional responsibility of representing the citizens of
> the Town of Lincoln to the best of my ability, I may do additional reading
> and research but everyone can access the same resources that I can.
>
> (In the spirit of John Mendelson's recent thoughtful note, I am happy to
> table this discussion until after the holiday.)
>
> Rich, speaking just for myself
>
>
> ‪On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 6:32 PM ‫ٍSarah Postlethwait‬‎ 
> wrote:‬
>
>> Are you also speaking as a member of Fin comm?
>>
>> It would be much more transparent if members of town boards would include
>> their respective board in their email signature when commenting on town
>> matters in LincolnTalk (especially when voicing your own biased opinion).
>>
>> It’s also worth noting that we are currently in compliance, and will be
>> for all of 2024 and qualify for all the funds being discussed.
>> If our water mains can’t last a couple more months after December 2024
>> until the town is able to make an informed decision, then why haven’t we
>> applied for these funds now while we are still in compliance?
>>
>> This rush towards December 2024 is unnecessary. Especially when 4 story
>> 48’ buildings with no lot limits (besides 25’ setbacks) at the mall are
>> being discussed in planning board meetings…
>>
>> Sarah Postlethwait
>>
>>
>>
>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:47 PM Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:
>>
>>>
>>> *It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.*
>>>
>>> An alternative would be to take a different leap of faith that none of
>>> the following happen:
>>>
>>>  - we end up delaying so much that we miss the deadline for complying
>>>  - we no longer qualify for state funding for needed repairs and
>>> replacement of our past-the-expiration-date water mains
>>>  - we end up with a bond to pay for a very, very large bill to keep
>>> clean water flowing to our faucets
>>>
>>> Rich
>>> (speaking as a citizen of Lincoln)
>>>
>>>
>>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:01 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:
>>>
 Amen.
 It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
 It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and
 not make any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a
 challenge to our wetlands bylaw.


 --
 Sara Mattes


 --
>>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>>> To post, send mail to Lincoln@lincolntalk.org.
>>> Browse the archives at
>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
>>> Change your subscription settings at
>>> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
>>>
>>>
-- 
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Change your subscription settings at 
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Thankful to live in Lincoln

[Donald Fonseca]

I second that. Between the bias war talk, HCA, and the CC, I am overwhelmed. 
This is made worst by certain individuals who thing they should send multiple 
emails, often in bold, on a daily basis.

I have opted to unsubscribe and I have confirmation of the same yet they keep 
coming. Help admin!

Donald

Get Outlook for iOS

From: Lincoln  on behalf of John Mendelson 

Sent: Wednesday, November 22, 2023 8:48:56 PM
To: LincolnTalk 
Subject: [LincolnTalk] Thankful to live in Lincoln

We are all lucky to live here.  Now, how about a nice 4-day break from HCA 
chatter on Lincoln Talk?

My in-box and peace of mind could use it.

John
-- 
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Sara Mattes]

There is a public website with a list of supporters…not very “secret."
--
Sara Mattes




> On Nov 22, 2023, at 7:30 PM, Lis Herbert  wrote:
> 
> It would likewise be much more transparent for proponents of E to identify 
> themselves and their respective properties within the boundaries that have 
> been drawn on Lewis Street, which appear to comprise just a handful of lots. 
> 
> Sent from my iPhone
> 
>> On Nov 22, 2023, at 6:32 PM, ٍSarah Postlethwait  wrote:
>> 
>> 
>> Are you also speaking as a member of Fin comm?
>> 
>> It would be much more transparent if members of town boards would include 
>> their respective board in their email signature when commenting on town 
>> matters in LincolnTalk (especially when voicing your own biased opinion).
>> 
>> It’s also worth noting that we are currently in compliance, and will be for 
>> all of 2024 and qualify for all the funds being discussed.
>> If our water mains can’t last a couple more months after December 2024 until 
>> the town is able to make an informed decision, then why haven’t we applied 
>> for these funds now while we are still in compliance? 
>> 
>> This rush towards December 2024 is unnecessary. Especially when 4 story 48’ 
>> buildings with no lot limits (besides 25’ setbacks) at the mall are being 
>> discussed in planning board meetings… 
>> 
>> Sarah Postlethwait 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:47 PM Rich Rosenbaum > > wrote:
>>> 
>>> It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
>>> 
>>> An alternative would be to take a different leap of faith that none of the 
>>> following happen:
>>> 
>>>  - we end up delaying so much that we miss the deadline for complying
>>>  - we no longer qualify for state funding for needed repairs and 
>>> replacement of our past-the-expiration-date water mains
>>>  - we end up with a bond to pay for a very, very large bill to keep clean 
>>> water flowing to our faucets
>>> 
>>> Rich
>>> (speaking as a citizen of Lincoln)
>>> 
>>> 
>>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:01 PM Sara Mattes >> > wrote:
 Amen.
 It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
 It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and not 
 make any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a 
 challenge to our wetlands bylaw.
 
 
 --
 Sara Mattes
 
 
>>> -- 
>>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>>> To post, send mail to Lincoln@lincolntalk.org 
>>> .
>>> 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 Lincoln@lincolntalk.org.
>> 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 Lincoln@lincolntalk.org.
> Browse the archives at https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/private/lincoln/.
> Change your subscription settings at 
> https://pairlist9.pair.net/mailman/listinfo/lincoln.
> 

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Re: [LincolnTalk] Mass. Investment in Communities that Build Around Commuter Rail Stations

[Sara Mattes]

How about a town closer to our size.
All those listed are significantly bigger.
What about Carlisle or a town of the same population?

2020 Census

Concord-18,491
Andover-36,569
Winchendon-10,364
Fall River -93,855
Littleton-10,152
Lincoln-5,071 (excluding HAFB)

--
Sara Mattes




> On Nov 22, 2023, at 10:12 PM, Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:
> 
> Also, can you please let us know about the timing of replacement of water 
> mains, and the cost?
> Do we have any information on the size of grants that have been made to towns 
> like ours for such projects?
> 
> Some rough figures:
> 
> Interestingly, Lincoln's public water supply system dates back to 1874. My 
> understanding (from memory) is that some of our current  water mains date 
> back to the first half of the last century (I can do more research if someone 
> would like more definitive data).
> 
> Current estimates for water main replacement is approximately $8M/mile. 
> Lincoln has over 50 miles of water mains (I am not implying that all of it is 
> due for replacement).
> 
> Regarding state grants for water supply improvements, here are a few of the 
> public water supply related grants as of 2023 (some of these may partially be 
> low/no interest loans):
> 
> CONCORD 
> Lead Service Line Replacements Project 
> $2,000,000 
> 
> ANDOVER
> Lead Service Line Replacement 
> $4,050,000 
> 
> WINCHENDON 
> Water Transmission Main Replacement 
> $9,560,000
> 
> FALL RIVER
> Lead Service Line Replacement 
> $4,150,000 
> 
> LITTLETON WATER DEPARTMENT 
> Water Supply Main Extension Littleton/Boxborough 
> $19,078,000
> 
> Source: 
> https://www.mass.gov/doc/2023-final-drinking-water-intended-use-plan/download
> 
> 
> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 6:07 PM Sara Mattes  > wrote:
>> There was no mention of not making every effort to comply.
>> 
>> It is how we approach that effort, and whether we expose wetlands to 
>> setbacks different than our current bylaw of 100’.
>> 
>> It is a huge leap of faith to include one of the most critical areas under 
>> consideration for HCA zoning-the mall.
>> 
>> We have been told that there will be a shrinkage in retail, and no guarantee 
>> it will be there in years to come.
>> We have been told there will plans produced.
>> I would like to see how those plans will be brought to life/guaranteed,  
>> before I vote for  rezoning.
>> We have been told to trust
>> I have always operated under the principle of “trust, but verify.”
>> I want verification before I vote.
>> 
>> There are many ways to add housing and comply in a timely fashion.
>> And, listening to the Planning. Board meeting of the other night, it sounds 
>> like some of those housing is coming sooner, rather than later.
>> So, it is not s”simply a zoning exercise.” 
>> 
>> Can you answer the question about wetlands setbacks?
>> Can we maintain our 100 'set backs in HCA zoned areas?”
>> If we cannot answer that, I will want to take a close look at the various 
>> options proposals that include proximity to wetlands.
>> 
>> Also, can you please let us know about the timing of replacement of water 
>> mains, and the cost?
>> Do we have any information on the size of grants that have been made to 
>> towns like ours for such projects?
>> 
>> This is important as we are looking at being asked to vote for a Community 
>> Center where we pay 100% of the costs-$15-28 million.
>> Knowing how much additional  debt we might assume to pay for all or some 
>> portion of a water main would help in decision-making on that vote.
>> 
>> All this would contribute to our understanding of the big picture.
>> 
>> Thank you.
>> 
>> 
>> --
>> Sara Mattes
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>> On Nov 22, 2023, at 5:46 PM, Rich Rosenbaum >> > wrote:
>>> 
>>> 
>>> It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
>>> 
>>> An alternative would be to take a different leap of faith that none of the 
>>> following happen:
>>> 
>>>  - we end up delaying so much that we miss the deadline for complying
>>>  - we no longer qualify for state funding for needed repairs and 
>>> replacement of our past-the-expiration-date water mains
>>>  - we end up with a bond to pay for a very, very large bill to keep clean 
>>> water flowing to our faucets
>>> 
>>> Rich
>>> (speaking as a citizen of Lincoln)
>>> 
>>> 
>>> On Wed, Nov 22, 2023 at 5:01 PM Sara Mattes >> > wrote:
 Amen.
 It’s a little like asking us to make a YUGE leap of faith.
 It makes the argument that we should proceed with extreme caution and not 
 make any changes where these questions might come into play, esp. a 
 challenge to our wetlands bylaw.
 
 
 --
 Sara Mattes
 
 
>> 

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[LincolnTalk] What is the REAL tax increase for the CC project?

[Edward Young via Lincoln]

Be aware that the average $291-$309 per year number for the projected tax 
impact of the Community Center project, as you will see prominently displayed 
to catch your eye on the sixth page of the Select Board’s November 16 mailing 
under the heading “Estimated Tax Impact”  is far LOWER than ANY of the actually 
projected tax increases for ANY of the proposals, as set forth in small type on 
the fourth page of the same Select Board mailing. The actual number ranges from 
“up to $387 increase” to “up to $773 increase,” depending on the size of the 
project.

The $291-309 number is printed in large boldface type, and the heading 
“Estimated Tax Impact” above it is printed in even larger boldface type, on a 
page with lots of white space. In contrast, the actual projections of “up to 
$387 increase," “up to $541 increase,” and “up to $773 increase” are printed in 
smaller, non-boldface type on a page of densely packed information.

Based on decades of responding to Securities and Exchange Commission comments 
on clients’ drafts of securities law filings, I can say with confidence that 
the SEC would never allow a company to present numbers in the manner chosen for 
the Select Board’s mailing.

Edward Young
Bedford Road
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