Re: [LincolnTalk] Missing a chicken??? REUNITED

[Michael Dembowski]

Reunited - the hen will/should survive another night, thanks to everyone who 
responded
-Michael 

> On Aug 29, 2024, at 3:55 PM, Michael Dembowski  wrote:
> 
> Hanging about 116 Conant all day and quite content (it seems). Would be nice 
> for him to get home before nightfall.
> PM me
> Michael
> 
> 
> 
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[LincolnTalk] Info Request Youth Competitive Swimming

[Michael Dembowski]

Does anyone have comparative experience for youth competitive swimming
between the Otters Swim Team at the Beede Center vs. North Shore Swim Club
/ USA Swimming?

Beede is clearly the far superior facility, USA Swimming seems to be the
authoritative development program, practice times vary a bit between
between the two and neither offers weekend sessions.
But in terms of structure/quality/progression/quality guidance and
instruction and a positive experience??? -  any input would be appreciated.
Please direct message/email.

Many thanks
Michael Dembowski
Conant Road
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[LincolnTalk] Bruins Academy Learn to Play questions

[Michael Dembowski]

Does anyone have experience sending their kids to the Bruins Learn to Play
Program?
The program and the equipment fit-out sounds amazing but the instructional
program is only 4 weeks.
Do the 4 weeks finish before start-up of a regular full sessions offered by
other hockey programs?- or does it take place at the same time as when
other programs are going?
My concern is - if one signs up for the Bruins program, does one then lose
a full season of hockey instruction offered elsewhere?

Any input / general guidance on the Bruins program - or other hockey
programs would be appreciated. What's the best way to get a 6 year old
started?
The interest in hockey has developed now that our son has maxed out The
Skating Club of Boston's 'Learn to Skate Program.'

Please email direct

Thanks
Michael Dembowski
Conant Road Lincoln
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[LincolnTalk] Pitching Lessons for a 6 year old

[Michael Dembowski]

 Hello-

I'm reaching out to find if there might be someone who is interested in 2-4
paid sessions teaching my son the basics and mechanics of proper pitching.
He is 6 years old, has done lots of throwing, fielding (fly balls and
grounders) and hitting. His velocity and accuracy in pitching is remarkable
- tho' not quite yet the distance per Little League regulations. The
primary goal/aim is to learn proper mechanics, learn how to avoid
developing bad habits, introduce different pitch types and develop
consistency. He will be in Lincoln Public School's 1st Grade in the Fall.
We can meet at the school field or anywhere local, on the weekend or an
early weekday evening. Whether a Coach, LS player, college player at home
for the summer months, former (or current) MLB pitching ace, or resident
Nobel Prize winning Physics Professor Baseball Hall of Famer, it would be a
good opportunity helping a youngster establish a strong foundation to build
upon, develop some skills and - have fun. I did reach out to L-S Baseball
via email but have not rec'd any response.

Please private/direct message
Many thanks and Happy Summer

Michael Dembowski
116 Conant Road
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[LincolnTalk] Colson Whitehead books pick-up/follow-up

[Michael Dembowski]

If whomever left Colson Whitehead books at the swap shed could reach out
for a quick call or email exchange - it would be appreciated.
I happen to be listening to an NPR interview with Whitehead now.
Many thanks
Michael Dembowski
617-241-7570
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Re: [LincolnTalk] A request to assist in N. Lewis St. historic preservation

[Michael Dembowski]

 Following up on Sarah P. and Carl's emails  - and confirmed by Sara M -
Why is it that ONLY Option E - developed by the Alternative Group - aligns
with the Historic Society's recommendation?
Why can't this variable be eliminated so that ALL options either follow the
Historic Society's recommendation - or not?
The North Side of Lewis Street will never be the deciding factor given the
options as they are now defined.
It seems nonsensical that the options differ on North Lewis Street - and
that the Town's Working Group and Historical Society hold opposing
positions in the options being brought to Town Meeting.
If the Working Group *might* consider the Historical Society's
recommendations but believe they do not have the time to revise their
options - that only reinforces the point often heard - the process is being
unnecessarily rushed.

Michael Dembowski
Conant Road

On Fri, Nov 24, 2023 at 7:49 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:

> Hello Carl!
>
> I am delighted to learn of your interest in the history of the north side
> of  Lewis St. and its role in the development of the station area.
> The town deemed this area  of such importance  that a report was
> commissioned , in collaboration with the Lincoln Historical Society, to
> prepare a report for submission for placement of a North Lewis Street
> district on the National Historic Register. (see attachment)
> The creation of such a district is still on our agenda.
>
> The development of the station area began in 1869, and these building were
> the only commercial buildings for many years.
> The area we now call “the mall” did not become available for any
> development until the 1960s as it was a part of the Codman estate until
> that time.
> N. Lewis St. housed pickle factories (Underwood Deviled Ham was one), the
> first PO in the area, a small store for provisions and a livery/garage and
> a tenement to house workers.
> It was the first hub of commerce in Lincoln.
> The buildings you see today on the north side of Lewis St. are the only
> remaining physical reminders of the turning point in Lincoln’s history.
>
> While some may call them “ugly,”  beauty is in the eye of the beholder and
> to those of us who value all of the important reminders of our recent and
> distant past in our built environment, north Lewis St. certainly has it's
> own unique  “beauty.”
>
> For further information on this development and more of Lincoln’s history,
> I commend to you Jack MacLean’s *A Rich Harvest*, available at Something
> Special, the Old Town Hall Exchange, the Lincoln Library, and, or course,
> the Lincoln Historical Society.
>
> And, here is a link to a talk, given by Jack MacLean years ago (the video
> will date it!), filled with wonderful images of those bygone days.
> cloud.castus.tv
> <https://cloud.castus.tv/vod/lincoln/video/64d671350ec3e8f899434eb5?page=HOME>
>
> <https://cloud.castus.tv/vod/lincoln/video/64d671350ec3e8f899434eb5?page=HOME>
> <https://cloud.castus.tv/vod/lincoln/video/64d671350ec3e8f899434eb5?page=HOME>
>
> The question of rezoning is that the potential to bundle all these
> properties for redevelopment makes it difficult  to pursue historic
> protection.
> The only tool we have, is the Demolition Delay Bylaw and is of limited
> effect.
> A developer can simply wait out the year delay, and then proceed.
> Without this rezoning , we have an opportunity to pursue strategies for
> historic designation, including financial, that we will not have if rezoned.
>
> As to making a request for exclusion of N.Lewis St., at the Oct. 26
> meeting of the Lincoln Historical Society Board of Directors, it was
> determined that a request for exemption of N.Lewis St. from all  HCA
> proposed options should be made through the Historical Commission and their
> representative to the HCAWG.
> We met with the HC on Nov. 7 and made this presentation.
>
>
>
> To date, the only option that exempts N.Lewis St. from HCA rezoning and
> provides a more secure path for historic preservation is Option E.
>
>
> On behalf of all who value the rich history embedded in our built
> environment, we thank you for your interest.
>
> Regards,
> Sara Mattes, President
> Lincoln Historical Society
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --
> Sara Mattes
>
>
>
>
> On Nov 24, 2023, at 7:00 AM, Carl Angiolillo 
> wrote:
>
> I love learning new things about town and appreciate Sarah's attachment
> with the history of Lewis St. But it also raises a few questions.
>
> > North Lewis was excluded [from Option E] at the request of the Lincoln
> Historical Society since every property on the North side of Lewis is
> considered Historical
>
> First, omitting the h

Re: [LincolnTalk] Radical change in Lincoln

[Michael Dembowski]

Andy-
THANK YOU - I wholly applaud your email and thoughts here as many
Lincolnites would welcome such changes.
Town Meeting is archaic to the point of being exclusionary and
disenfranchising - as many point out, it is not in step with modern life.
In our household, work and family commitments on Town Meeting Days prevent
participation by necessity.
A refresh on the format would reinvigorate the forum, allowing for the
possibility of much broader participation.
Imagine no postings, discussion or suggestion that decisions were made by
the select few who could be physically present for such a length of time.

This can't be the first time these ideas have been raised.
What has prevented action in the past and how can any proposed suggestions
gain traction and then be implemented?

Michael Dembowski
Conant Road

On Mon, Nov 20, 2023 at 11:57 PM Andy Wang  wrote:

>
> Unfortunately, there are specific rules that govern an Open Town Meeting
> like Lincoln that do not allow for matters that are decided at Town Meeting
> to be replaced by a traditional ballot vote. Given that the March 2024
> meeting will cover two "Hot Topic" Issues, the bonding for the Community
> Center and the HCA rezoning, this one I assume is going to be a doozy.  And
> that's on top of all the other typical yearly business of the town
> (presentations, budget, etc).
>
> I believe there is a possible mechanism to be more inclusive, if the Town
> and Moderator decide to:
>
> I propose that we hold Town Meeting in *two* *sessions*.
>
> *Session A: **Presentations, Debate & Amendments only. * Views are
> presented, debate to be had, and any amendments are to be discussed and
> voted on.  The meeting would be live, streamed, & recorded.  The recording
> would be made available for download after the meeting so people who were
> not able to attend could catch up on all of the debate, or just educate
> themselves on the issues that are of import to them. The moderator could
> then simply adjourn the meeting without vote (on the actual question).
> They have this power in general for cases when meetings run late and can
> re-convene at a later date, provided that date is before the ballot vote.
>
> *Caveats:*
> - Anyone attending on-line would NOT be able to pose questions / make
> statements, this violates the rules of Town Meeting, you must be present to
> be recognized
> - Anyone not attending in person would not be able to vote on any
> amendments
> - All questions would need to be called, which closes debate
>
> *Session B: Voting. * This would occur on the last Saturday before the
> last Monday in March as required by the town by-laws.  Assuming people have
> been to Session A or downloaded and reviewed the material that is relevant
> to them, we now have a population of well-informed voters who can come in
> and just knock out the votes in succession (the question would have already
> "been called" in Session A, which closes further debate).  This format
> would be much easier for parents to allow a smaller fixed period of time to
> vote on issues and anyone else with a busy schedule.
>
> The actual text of the by-law timing is here:
>
> *"The Annual Town Meeting shall be held on the Saturday before the last
> Monday in March in each year at 9:30 A.M. for the transaction of all
> business except that the election of officers and the determination of such
> matters as by law are required to be elected or determined by ballot shall
> take place on the last Monday in March, when the polls shall be open from
> 7:30 A.M. until 7:00 P.M., or to such later time up to 8:00 P.M. as the
> Moderator may determine, provided, however, that whenever the date for the
> Annual Town Meeting, as hereby established, falls on the Saturday before
> Easter Sunday, the Annual Town Meeting shall be held on the preceding
> Saturday, although the Election and ballot questions hereinabove described
> shall still be held on the last Monday in March."*
>
> Not covered in this:
> - Military / Reserve duty votes are still not able to be counted
> - Foreign nationals that live in town, and even those that live in town
> and own property that would be impacted can not vote
> - Proxy voting is not allowed
>
> Unfortunately, those would require many more changes, but I believe we can
> do a two session Town Meeting under current guidelines.
>
> Of course, Town Council would have to review, but I believe this is in the
> realm of the possible. NH has specific rules that allow for this, but I do
> not believe that there are rules that preclude it in MA. And if there are
> rules, I would propose that we change the by-laws to support this
> structure.  I believe this would make town meeting more ac

Re: [LincolnTalk] Inaccuracies in rezoning proposals submitted to the State

[Michael Dembowski]

Rich- I appreciate the apology made in advance, not the narrow literal interpretation of a well-intentioned post. Michael On Oct 29, 2023, at 11:22 AM, Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:I very much appreciate your 
response, having cherry picked my email as (perhaps) offering a good 
primer on civic process here in Lincoln. I find it helpful to have this 
be on LT to help inform and remind all. from Wikipedia:Cherry picking, suppressing evidence, or the fallacy of incomplete evidence
 is the act of pointing to individual cases or data that seem to confirm
 a particular position while ignoring a significant portion of related 
and similar cases or data that may contradict that position. Cherry picking may be committed intentionally or unintentionally.[2]
I see no 'cherry picking' either intentional or otherwise. I, for one, appreciate the inclusion of relevant references so that I have the context for a response especially within a long thread of multiple messages.If you meant another definition of 'cherry picking', my apologies.RichOn Sun, Oct 29, 2023 at 10:52 AM Michael Dembowski <mjdembow...@gmail.com> wrote:Margaret - I very much appreciate your response, having cherry picked my email as (perhaps) offering a good primer on civic process here in Lincoln. I find it helpful to have this be on LT to help inform and remind all. Sincerely Michael DembowskiConant Road On Oct 29, 2023, at 9:16 AM, Margaret Olson <s...@margaretolson.com> wrote:"At what point does any town official respond to David's critique? - a response is needed whether by special meeting or thru LT.At risk is any community faith in the process that already seems fractured. "Michael,The open meeting laws require that any deliberations be held in a posted public meeting. When I respond to posts it is to cite facts and to the extent possible point people to existing information. The open meeting law requirements are cumbersome and do make the pace of response slow, and particularly slow for issues that cross multiple boards as does the HCA.All of the HCA materials, including the town's state submission (to date) and all public presentations, can be found here: https://www.lincolntown.org/1327/Housing-Choice-Act-Working-Group. This site is updated regularly with new information. Keep in mind that the boards and committees receive multiple variations on the same questions and in general address them through the public forums and the town's HCA page.I encourage you and others with questions to come to one of the forums on November 8th: at 8am in the town offices or at 7pm on Zoom (registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0lcuuqqj8uGtFZbgFL3Ghr2zR5oH5ZdaVF). MargaretOn Fri, Oct 27, 2023 at 8:52 AM Michael Dembowski <mjdembow...@gmail.com> wrote:At what point does any town official respond to David's critique? - a response is needed whether by special meeting or thru LT.At risk is any community faith in the process that already seems fractured. Dialogue is welcome - whether it be acknowledgement of errors, a response to each point made, or even an extended invite to David to formally join HCAWG.Michael DembowskiConant Road

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Re: [LincolnTalk] Inaccuracies in rezoning proposals submitted to the State

[Michael Dembowski]

Margaret - I very much appreciate your response, having cherry picked my email as (perhaps) offering a good primer on civic process here in Lincoln. I find it helpful to have this be on LT to help inform and remind all. Sincerely Michael DembowskiConant Road On Oct 29, 2023, at 9:16 AM, Margaret Olson  wrote:"At what point does any town official respond to David's critique? - a response is needed whether by special meeting or thru LT.At risk is any community faith in the process that already seems fractured. "Michael,The open meeting laws require that any deliberations be held in a posted public meeting. When I respond to posts it is to cite facts and to the extent possible point people to existing information. The open meeting law requirements are cumbersome and do make the pace of response slow, and particularly slow for issues that cross multiple boards as does the HCA.All of the HCA materials, including the town's state submission (to date) and all public presentations, can be found here: https://www.lincolntown.org/1327/Housing-Choice-Act-Working-Group. This site is updated regularly with new information. Keep in mind that the boards and committees receive multiple variations on the same questions and in general address them through the public forums and the town's HCA page.I encourage you and others with questions to come to one of the forums on November 8th: at 8am in the town offices or at 7pm on Zoom (registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0lcuuqqj8uGtFZbgFL3Ghr2zR5oH5ZdaVF). MargaretOn Fri, Oct 27, 2023 at 8:52 AM Michael Dembowski <mjdembow...@gmail.com> wrote:At what point does any town official respond to David's critique? - a response is needed whether by special meeting or thru LT.At risk is any community faith in the process that already seems fractured. Dialogue is welcome - whether it be acknowledgement of errors, a response to each point made, or even an extended invite to David to formally join HCAWG.Michael DembowskiConant RoadOn Fri, Oct 27, 2023 at 8:09 AM Susanna Szeto <szeto...@gmail.com> wrote:Good questions Karla!  We need someone to ask these questions at the board meeting!  WHO will do it?SusannaOn Oct 27, 2023, at 6:02 AM, Karla Gravis <karlagra...@gmail.com> wrote:There are a lot of details here (which I encourage everyone
to read) but 3 very important questions require answers:Why did we submit 18 more acres in parcels to
the State than what was approved by town boards for Option C?Why are we unnecessarily zoning Lincoln Woods to
a much higher number of units than we have currently, thus creating an
incentive for TCB or another developer to come in and rebuild? The current
affordability requirement ends in 2032.Why are we including so many parcels that give
us no compliance credit with the State but enable developers to build many more
units than is required for compliance?Karla-- Forwarded message -From: ٍSarah Postlethwait <sa...@bayhas.com>Date: Thu, Oct 26, 2023 at 13:16Subject: Re: [LincolnTalk] Inaccuracies in rezoning proposals submitted to the StateTo: David Cuetos <davidcue...@gmail.com>CC: Lincoln Talk <lincoln@lincolntalk.org>It’s concerning that we are paying Utile at least $20k to come up with these proposals on the town’s behalf and they have submitted it with this many inaccuracies. What is also is concerning is that, according to the minutes page, the HCAWG has not had a working meeting since the end of August- right after the guideline changes were announced and before option C was formed. No meetings were held in September and the two October meetings were multi board meeting presentations.Is the full HCAWG reviewing the current proposals and what is being submitted to the state?Including an additional 18 acres of land in the state proposal that has not been presented to the town and the Select board and planning board is unacceptable. The HCAWG needs disbanded for the following reasons: •2 members are representing the best interest of the RLF LLC (aka trying to get the highest density possible allowed by right so they can sell the property to Civico for more money).•The proposals presented to the town all include unnecessary land that does not count towards the HCA compliance target.•Option C has been submitted to the state with this many inconsistencies that has been pointed out by David, and 18 acres of land being added that were not approved by the Select board or Planning board or the town. •The Open meeting law has been violated numerous times by the HCAWG; and a meeting mentioned in the select board minutes is missing from the HCAWG minutes page entirely. Better ways to comply with the HCA have been proposed. Stop rushing to get a RLF centric rezoning passed and get a better Working group in place. This rezoning is going to shape the future decades of Lincoln- let’s do it thoughtfully and purposefully. Sarah PostlethwaitOn Thu, Oct 26, 2023 at 10:37

Re: [LincolnTalk] Inaccuracies in rezoning proposals submitted to the State

[Michael Dembowski]

At what point does any town official respond to David's critique? - a
response is needed whether by special meeting or thru LT.
At risk is *any* community faith in the process that already seems
fractured.
Dialogue is welcome - whether it be acknowledgement of errors, a response
to each point made, or even an extended invite to David to formally join
HCAWG.
Michael Dembowski
Conant Road


On Fri, Oct 27, 2023 at 8:09 AM Susanna Szeto  wrote:

> Good questions Karla!  We need someone to ask these questions at the board
> meeting!  WHO will do it?
>
> Susanna
>
> On Oct 27, 2023, at 6:02 AM, Karla Gravis  wrote:
>
> 
>
> There are a lot of details here (which I encourage everyone to read) but 3
> very important questions require answers:
>
>
>- Why did we submit 18 more acres in parcels to the State than what
>was approved by town boards for Option C?
>- Why are we unnecessarily zoning Lincoln Woods to a much higher
>number of units than we have currently, thus creating an incentive for TCB
>or another developer to come in and rebuild? The current affordability
>requirement ends in 2032.
>- Why are we including so many parcels that give us no compliance
>credit with the State but enable developers to build many more units than
>is required for compliance?
>
> Karla
>
>
>
>
>>
>> -- Forwarded message -
>> From: ٍSarah Postlethwait 
>> Date: Thu, Oct 26, 2023 at 13:16
>> Subject: Re: [LincolnTalk] Inaccuracies in rezoning proposals submitted
>> to the State
>> To: David Cuetos 
>> CC: Lincoln Talk 
>>
>>
>> It’s concerning that we are paying Utile at least $20k to come up with
>> these proposals on the town’s behalf and they have submitted it with this
>> many inaccuracies.
>> What is also is concerning is that, according to the minutes page, the
>> HCAWG has not had a working meeting since the end of August- right after
>> the guideline changes were announced and before option C was formed. No
>> meetings were held in September and the two October meetings were multi
>> board meeting presentations.
>>
>> *Is the full HCAWG reviewing the current proposals and what is being
>> submitted to the state?*
>>
>> Including an additional 18 acres of land in the state proposal that has
>> not been presented to the town and the Select board and planning board is
>> unacceptable.
>>
>> *The HCAWG needs disbanded for the following reasons:*
>>  •2 members are representing the best interest of the RLF LLC (aka trying
>> to get the highest density possible allowed by right so they can sell the
>> property to Civico for more money).
>> •The proposals presented to the town all include unnecessary land that
>> does not count towards the HCA compliance target.
>> •Option C has been submitted to the state with this many inconsistencies
>> that has been pointed out by David, and 18 acres of land being added that
>> were not approved by the Select board or Planning board or the town.
>> •The Open meeting law has been violated numerous times by the HCAWG; and
>> a meeting mentioned in the select board minutes is missing from the HCAWG
>> minutes page entirely.
>>
>>
>> Better ways to comply with the HCA have been proposed. Stop rushing to
>> get a RLF centric rezoning passed and get a better Working group in place.
>>
>> *This rezoning is going to shape the future decades of Lincoln- let’s do
>> it thoughtfully and purposefully. *
>>
>>
>> Sarah Postlethwait
>>
>>
>>
>> On Thu, Oct 26, 2023 at 10:37 AM David Cuetos 
>> wrote:
>>
>>> *Executive Summary:*
>>>
>>>
>>>- I identified a series of mistakes in the Option C proposal
>>>submitted to the State for compliance check. Option C as presented in the
>>>SOTT and approved by the Boards for submission rezoned 70 acres of land.
>>>The model that was sent to the State rezoned 88 acres, 18 acres more. 
>>> After
>>>reviewing with our consultant Utile, the mistakes were confirmed by our
>>>Director of Planning. For reference, the State is asking us to rezone 42
>>>acres.
>>>- The model sent to the State states the maximum number of units
>>>that can be built in Lincoln as a result of the rezoning is 1,679. The
>>>State is asking for 635 units.
>>>- The HCAWG’s decision to include so many parcels near wetlands is
>>>the main reason for this very high number of units.
>>>- Public land, for example the DPW, is unnecessarily include

Re: [LincolnTalk] Excellent story on the housing crisis, affordable housing & zoning

[Michael Dembowski]

And taxes to offset additional servicesOn Oct 19, 2023, at 11:32 AM, Linda McMillan  wrote:Could we require the developer to build condos rather than rental units in Option C? Or any option for that matter. Don't we want more owner-occupied housing for young families, for seniors down- sizing, and to expand our diversity? Must all 625 units be rental?On Thu, Oct 19, 2023, 5:34 AM Robert Ahlert  wrote:Hi all -I don't think anyone is arguing whether or not to comply but rather HOW we comply.   Option C has some flaws ...1. Affordable Housing - it allows parcels like Lincoln Woods to be converted to 3A "HCA" zoning which means they can be redeveloped with mostly (90%) market rate housing which as you can see from Oriole Landing, is very expensive for a middle income resident2. Traffic - 635 units of residents (e.g 1200 people) in one area will likely have 1000+ cars and while a couple of their trips per month might be walking, most of them will not. We will 'likely' have a mess of cars in S. Lincoln, not just at rush hour, but all day and on weekends.  Maybe that is the 'lively' town center people are envisioning, but not me.3. Visual Appeal - we can have Planning Guidelines all day long but in the end, we are talking about big buildings and a lot of them all in one area.  Think in your mind as you read this about 21 Oriole Landing buildings all in S. Lincoln.  This is realistic because 635 has to be the modeled gross density (per the 3A downloadable model) which accounts for wetlands, septic, and parking).  I have a visual "Lego" site plan for this should anyone want to see how this could very realistically be laid out.4. Pace - Lincoln will be attractive to developers and they know the only thing that has stopped them in the past is 2/3 vote at Town meeting.  That will be gone once the "HCA Zoning" is enacted.  These parcels will be very attractive and as much as we are told this will take decades, i just don't believe it.  We need to be prepared for a lot of development in the next 5 to 10 years with Option C.5. Environment - this is where my understanding gets a little fuzzy but by putting wetlands into HCA zoning using the State maps with 50' buffer, we may even get more density that we are expecting because the State DEP can trump our local conservation laws if we try to block a developer from building in wetlands that were promised in HCA zoning.I think the HCAWG got pressed for time in August/September and felt they needed to submit something for review to the State which they have done, fine, no problem. Now they are considering new options.  But which options?  We will be sending in 10 alternatives to the HCAWG team today to get feedback before D1 and D2 get fully baked.  We hope they will be given time for consideration before the Oct 24 Planning board meeting (next week!).  Why the rush?Hopefully together, we can come up with a better solution.Thanks,RobOn Wed, Oct 18, 2023 at 8:06 PM Ken Hurd  wrote:Hello LincolnTalkers,I do not wish to rub salt in anybody’s wounds, and I certainly understand the anxiety around the possibility of change, but I’d like to remind everyone why the Housing Choice Act was enacted, not in the first place, but as a last resort.  In many of Boston’s surrounding suburbs, there have been decades of resistance to providing more housing using techniques such as local zoning restrictions, concerns about traffic counts, burgeoning school populations, declining property values, and increased taxes to support additional services, etc.  And now, I hear the argument that we won’t have enough affordable housing if we allow any new development.In full disclosure, when the Housing Choice Act first appeared, I was not a fan because it was such a blunt instrument.  However, I now believe its good intentions far exceed the cost of compliance if a community works in good faith to meet the challenges of providing more housing in the greater Boston area. As Bob Kupperstein stated, by the simple law of supply and demand, if all towns in the metropolitan area do their part, more housing will help take the pressure off the un-affordability of existing housing stock.   Furthermore, encouraging greater diversity in the types of housing will increase the diversity of people who can and will live in Lincoln.  This will include the gamut from younger households to aging seniors who no longer want to maintain their larger homes or multiple vehicles, from those who work here to those who share the desire to live in bucolic setting.  I do believe the Housing Choice Act Working Group has done an excellent job of parsing through the Act’s cumbersome formulas to arrive at an optimum solution that not only meets the legal requirements but also the spirit of the legislation.  As an added benefit, their recommendation comports with the goals of Lincoln’s Comprehensive Long-Range Plan adopted unanimously in 2010.  Its highest priority was to create a walkable village c

Re: [LincolnTalk] CCBC FAQ's - with additional links

[Michael Dembowski]

Rob is absolutely correct in that Lincoln will be desirable and ripe for
development - Lincoln's attributes will remain desirable - only accessible
to and appreciated by more.
It's naive to imagine a developer doesn't foresee the potential upside of
development here than in nearby towns - the open space, the schools, the
commuter rail link and ease of automobile access to highways and downtown.
And although site review and other approvals are embedded within 'right to
build' - the committee should gain Utile's input - Is it possible to
establish a Town 'Master Plan' or 'Design Guidelines' that can be codified
and be enforceable? How might the Town be able to define design guidelines
to prevent the 'mish-mash' that would not only be counter but detrimental
to Lincoln's character? Are there lessons to be learned from how other
communities have experienced the similar potential of sizable sudden
development?

As to the process by which individual property owners sell - I recall
living in Charlestown, MA during one of its real estate heydays - many who
profited by selling and relocating elsewhere would travel back and gather
daily with their folding lawn chairs to socialize in front of DDs. I
imagine Twisted Tree would serve the same purpose here. Or perhaps the
Community Center if that were to be built.

-Michael Dembowski
Conant Road

On Mon, Oct 2, 2023 at 5:41 PM Robert Ahlert  wrote:

> I wouldn’t be so sure of that. Devilopers are smart and they are already
> circling. They can see these maps as well. Lincoln will be a very
> profitable place for them to build.
>
> The property owners stand to make a lot of money. That’s why I’m curious
> about how the subdistricts work and can individual property owners sell
> separately from the others within their subdistrict?  Is it just going to
> be a mishmash of designs and styles or one big mega-development?
>
> Rob A
> 185 Lincoln Rd.
>
>
> On Mon, Oct 2, 2023 at 2:21 PM Barbara Low 
> wrote:
>
>> One of the comments made at the zoning session I attended was that
>> although the zoning changes could/would be made, it could take decades for
>> the dense housing to be built. I would not start counting new residents yet.
>>
>> Barbara Low
>> --
>> *From:* Lincoln  on behalf of Michael
>> Dembowski 
>> *Sent:* Monday, October 2, 2023 12:19 PM
>> *To:* Karla Gravis 
>> *Cc:* Lincoln Talk 
>> *Subject:* Re: [LincolnTalk] CCBC FAQ's - with additional links
>>
>> Karla, Andy and those so inclined - and still interested -
>> Has anyone made an attempt to look at increased capacity/demand of COA,
>> LEAP and Parks and Rec due to the proposed Town Rezoning?
>> The Rezoning Deck posted earlier this AM includes a chart on LPS School
>> Enrollment - demonstrating what could be absorbed within current # of class
>> sections and within the space limitation of (1) additional section per
>> grade. A majority of the allowable increase can be absorbed within the
>> current number of class sections - 187 of a 267 total.
>> Beyond debate and disagreement about numbers, perhaps a larger lesson to
>> be gleaned is that the school project smartly has been right-sized for
>> additional future capacity. Given the proposed zoning changes - that
>> additional demand should be at least a point of discussion if not be
>> outright factored into the Community Center programming.
>> Michael Dembowski
>> Conant Road
>>
>> On Mon, Oct 2, 2023 at 11:13 AM Karla Gravis 
>> wrote:
>>
>> While I understand that Hanscom could bring a level of complexity, that
>> distinction is not relevant in this particular discussion because the CCBC
>> is not calculating the non-Hanscom population. The benchmarking used the
>> TOTAL Lincoln population.
>>
>>
>> The issue at hand is that the town census shows 600 (~40%) more seniors
>> than the US census for all of Lincoln. Hanscom does not affect that.
>>
>>
>> More importantly, the Hanscom discussion does not change the fact that the
>> CCBC is not being forthcoming about sources. The CCBC said, in writing,
>> and I quote: “The CCBC has used the Town Census numbers for every town,
>> to ensure full comparability”. That is simply not true. Regardless of
>> Hanscom or not, the CCBC benchmarking is using different sources for other
>> towns and not for Lincoln. They used the *lower* numbers for other towns
>> from one source and the *higher* numbers for Lincoln from a different
>> source. At the very least, there should have been a caveat explaining this.
>>
>>
>> I would also note that, given the upward bias o

Re: [LincolnTalk] CCBC FAQ's - with additional links

[Michael Dembowski]

Karla, Andy and those so inclined - and still interested -
Has anyone made an attempt to look at increased capacity/demand of COA,
LEAP and Parks and Rec due to the proposed Town Rezoning?
The Rezoning Deck posted earlier this AM includes a chart on LPS School
Enrollment - demonstrating what could be absorbed within current # of class
sections and within the space limitation of (1) additional section per
grade. A majority of the allowable increase can be absorbed within the
current number of class sections - 187 of a 267 total.
Beyond debate and disagreement about numbers, perhaps a larger lesson to be
gleaned is that the school project smartly has been right-sized for
additional future capacity. Given the proposed zoning changes - that
additional demand should be at least a point of discussion if not be
outright factored into the Community Center programming.
Michael Dembowski
Conant Road

On Mon, Oct 2, 2023 at 11:13 AM Karla Gravis  wrote:

> While I understand that Hanscom could bring a level of complexity, that
> distinction is not relevant in this particular discussion because the CCBC
> is not calculating the non-Hanscom population. The benchmarking used the
> TOTAL Lincoln population.
>
>
> The issue at hand is that the town census shows 600 (~40%) more seniors
> than the US census for all of Lincoln. Hanscom does not affect that.
>
>
> More importantly, the Hanscom discussion does not change the fact that the
> CCBC is not being forthcoming about sources. The CCBC said, in writing,
> and I quote: “The CCBC has used the Town Census numbers for every town,
> to ensure full comparability”. That is simply not true. Regardless of
> Hanscom or not, the CCBC benchmarking is using different sources for other
> towns and not for Lincoln. They used the *lower* numbers for other towns
> from one source and the *higher* numbers for Lincoln from a different
> source. At the very least, there should have been a caveat explaining this.
>
>
> I would also note that, given the upward bias of a town census, due to the
> methodological issues I describe in my previous post, there is little
> reason to believe the ACS is a less accurate population measure.
>
>
> By using the higher numbers for Lincoln but lower numbers for other towns,
> it seems like we’re trying to justify a center bigger than our needs. If we
> add this to the fact that the COA refuses to provide attendance data, we
> dramatically increase the probability that the town will be building
> another building that is way too big for our real needs.
>
>
> Karla Gravis
>
> Weston Road
>
>
> On Mon, Oct 2, 2023 at 9:05 AM Andrew Payne  wrote:
>
>>
>> Karla G. wrote:
>>
>> Below are two examples for Concord and Harvard, as proof that the CCBC
>>> used the ACS numbers and not the town census numbers in their benchmarking.
>>>
>> The issue that is very unique to Lincoln when trying to use that US
>> Census ACS data:  figuring out the *non-Hanscom population.  *
>>
>> Anyone making cross-town comparisons should keep that in mind.
>>
>> One
>> let's-complicate-things-by-putting-Hanscom-AFB-base-housing-within-our-small-town's-town-limits
>> resident's view,
>>
>> -andy
>> https://payne.org/lt-disclaimer/
>>
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[LincolnTalk] Gardening Consultant

[Michael Dembowski]

GOOD AM LT!
I'm seeking input/advice in developing a perennial shade garden from an
experienced, knowledgeable individual.
I'm reaching out as an on-line search is proving to be a bit tedious-
having no interest in a landscape plan or design, installation or
maintenance contracts.
I am looking for a site visit w/ specific recommendations on plantings,
weed management and thoughts on implementation.
Email me direct please - no need for the group dialogue. I'm happy to
repost recommendations rec'd - if any.
Many thanks
Michael Dembowski
Conant Road
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Community Center- size considerations

[Michael Dembowski]

Agreed On Sep 27, 2023, at 11:47 AM, Laura Crosby  wrote:Agreed.Sent from my iPhoneOn Sep 27, 2023, at 10:59 AM, John Mendelson  wrote:You write as if everyone agrees the school has too much space.  I, for one, don't.  In my view, if there are lessons to be learned from the school building project, it is wise to examine the reasons why the town voted down the project in 2012, thereby rejecting $20.9 million in state funding.  Hubris, perhaps well-intentioned but overly wrought disagreements about site and design, concerns about cost?  Likely, all of the above.To my ear, this dialogue sounds very similar, and I cannot help but believe that if we kick this down the road, costs are only going to increase and the impact of the project diminished.I trust the work the CCBC has done and will very likely support their recommendation. JohnOn Wed, Sep 27, 2023 at 7:22 AM Peter Buchthal  wrote:People of course are allowed to have their own opinions, but I don't believe this building project is about accepting our responsibility for taking care of our elders.  As I have mentioned before, my father lived to 97 and was a big user of his local Council on Aging.  You apparently believe that if one does not support the CCBC's decisions, you don't support our Council on Aging and its mission.  This is far from the truth.  Many on Lincoln Talk  and others in town simply question the Council on Aging Hartwell generous building space requirements.   Residents simply do not want to build a building that is bigger than our needs like we did with the school. There is also a healthy debate on whether it makes sense to build a COA/Community Center on the Hartwell Campus without sufficient parking and limited hours to protect the pre-school Magic Gardens and school age (5+)  dropoff/Pickup from automobile running child parking lot mishaps.  I am also not aware of any community center anywhere that  intentionally colocates a senior center and  daycare using a small shared parking lot.   Many on Lincoln Talk and the town would hate to see the town build a huge building that is underutilized and repeats the lack of parking at Bemis Hall.   As a small community with limited resources and the highest per capita debt in the commonwealth, we need to look at large projects with many eyes and many voices.  It is a shame that up to now, the CCBC really hasn't listened to the public's concerns.  In an effort to lower the cost and save between 3 and 4 million, I have previously asked why Leap can't be relocated into the school where it belongs.  Almost all other school districts have extended day offerings within the school as the hours of a school and after school program dovetail perfectly.  Maybe we should ask our new Superintendent if he could house Leap within the school? Does anyone know where Leap is going to run while the Hartwell Project is under construction?   Peter Buchthal71 Weston RdOn Tue, Sep 26, 2023 at 6:03 PM john gregg via Lincoln  wrote:I am so surprised that a community that encourages acceptance and tolerance would further not doing the right thing like providing a place for kids, adults and elders should be able to congregate. 

It is about space, about money, about having to be held accountable for past neglect like providing a school for children. A place where the kids would be provided safe care at LEAP for parents who work. A place where adults could allow care for the ones who actually took care of them if they move back home. 

This is the same discussion when deciding about a new school, a bunch of intellectuals debating why things should not be provided to others like was provided to them. 

Best Regards,
John Gregg
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Power outage

[Michael Dembowski]

Just before 700, a significant tree fell across Weston Road near Pierce Park - occurring just ahead of where my wife was driving. The tree was suspended across fallen snapped wires - accompanied by flashes of light. She called 911 and turned around, seeing fire and police responding promptly. Stay safe-Michael Dembowski On Sep 13, 2023, at 9:01 PM, Rich Rosenbaum  wrote:https://outagemap.eversource.com/external/default.htmlOn Wed, Sep 13, 2023 at 8:47 PM Stacey Parks <staceypa...@comcast.net> wrote:No power on Beaver Pond, however my power is connected to a pole on Weston Rd. Sent from my iPhoneOn Sep 13, 2023, at 7:32 PM, Stacey Sawyer-Mackie via Lincoln <lincoln@lincolntalk.org> wrote:
So far, we're OK on Greenridge Lane





On Wednesday, September 13, 2023 at 07:11:11 PM EDT, Sarah Cannon Holden <sarahcannonhol...@gmail.com> wrote:



I’m on Weston Rd. without power. What about others?Sarah Cannon Holden-- 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] Last Night's Community Center Forum

[Michael Dembowski]

Reinforcing Lynne's point - there are not insignificant costs req'd of
re-use of existing buildings- especially those anticipating assembly type
spaces with higher use and occupancy.
These start w/ the design team fees for professional assessment and
recommendations to which cost estimates must be produced. The various
building system upgrades required to meet and satisfy current building,
energy, plumbing codes and more oftentimes (quite easily) exceed the
threshold by which MA Building Code then (rightfully so) requires
accessibility upgrades- including improvements to site, entries,
provision/install of an accessible elevator, toilet room resizing for added
fixtures and increased clearances, new building and room signage, revised
mounting height of fire alarm devices, light switches throughout -
and more. None of this invalidates the potential reuse of existing
buildings, only the thinking that this alternative is a 'slam-dunk' for
significant cost savings.
Michael Dembowski
Conant Road

On Wed, Sep 13, 2023 at 2:12 PM llas902551--- via Lincoln <
lincoln@lincolntalk.org> wrote:

> To those interested. All available  existing town bldgs have been looked
> at MULTIPLE TIMES and need much renovation at considerable expense.
> Unfortunately because not only LEAP but P&R need space. So the cost has
> now increased.
> By using other bldgs their is rent and owner requirements.  And would not
> belong to town.
> And Their are many state/ town / school requirements at the ONLY sight
> available on school grounds.
> I'll add that the planning of the CC was well thought out for many yrs .
> Hopefully when more of you need elder services we will have an appropriate
> space.
> Thank you.
> Lynne LaSpina  FLCOA & HS
> Sent from AOL on Android
> <https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aol.mobile.aolapp>
>
> On Wed, Sep 13, 2023 at 10:42 AM, Forest Brown
>  wrote:
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Downsizing? Your Donated Books_DVDs_CDs Fund the Library

[Michael Dembowski]

Cathy-
Wholeheartedly missing the Saturday Book Sales and still perusing and
purchasing books from the (2) small shelving units placed at the library -
I've often wondered - what is the process by which items get culled from
the donation bins and offered for sale at the library? The limited
selection offered makes me wonder what is *not* being offered for sale back
to the community. And- is there any process by which one might donate books
thought to be of value and interest directly to FoLL - to perhaps even be
sold at higher prices to increase monies for FoLL? Or is the effort
required to do so thought to be too much for what is seen to be little
potential financial gain?
Supportive + Curious
Michael Dembowski
Conant Road

On Mon, Sep 11, 2023 at 2:48 PM Cathy Moritz 
wrote:

> Dear Lincoln Residents:
>
> Are you downsizing and have dozens of books to donate -- or more?  You can
> help the library
>
> Bring your used books, DVDs, and CDs to the Friends' donation bins at the
> Lincoln Mall shopping center, Tracey's Service Station at Route 2, and
> Lincoln Gas & Auto on Route 117.
>
> Revenue from sales of your donations funds the special programs,
> children's events, museum passes, the new "Library of Things," and other
> wonderful services at our beloved Lincoln Public Library.  You may know
> that the town budget only pays for the building, the staff salaries, and
> the books & media for loan.
>
> PS -- For those who worry about putting items in the Friends' bins -
> please know that the bins are watertight and donated items are almost never
> damaged -- it's similar to dropping your borrowed books through the return
> slot into the Library's collection bins.
>
> *Please keep your book/DVD/CD donations coming!*
>
> Thank you very much,
>
> Cathy Moritz
>
> Used Book Director
>
> Friends of the Lincoln Library
>
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Community Center - more in-depth analysis and observations. Is it time for a course correction?

[Michael Dembowski]

All the emails filling my inbox are very much appreciated. Perhaps Town Meeting can be short. Michael DembowskiConant Road On May 10, 2023, at 6:43 PM, Sara Mattes  wrote:I have been using COA programming for years…15 or so.I have enjoyed multiple programs in multiple settings.How was it possible then, but not now?Perhaps there needs to be better space for social and health services, and even administration, but we need to continue with the use of programming in multiple locations-spaces and locations used in the past, locations that would be of good use for the future.We need to be flexible and creative.Sara
--Sara Mattes


On May 10, 2023, at 5:35 PM, Barbara Low  wrote:With regard to the COA&HS using various locations for their programming, the staff of the COA&HS cannot easily run programming in multiple locations and still do the other work they need to do. Programming is a large part of what the COA&HS does but there is also the social work/counseling/problem solving aspects of their jobs. Their jobs cannot be well done if they are running from site to site to manage programming. And Bemis is inadequate for the needs of the senior citizens -- access to the building, bathroom facilities (the handicapped bathrooms are in the basement and the large group programming is on the second floor), and private office space is lacking to have the necessary confidential meetings.I think many of the people complaining about the community center are not folks who are currently using the COA&HS services. Your day will come.BarbaraFrom: Lincoln  on behalf of Seth Rosen Sent: Wednesday, May 10, 2023 4:54 PMTo: Ruth Ann Hendrickson Cc: Lincoln@lincolntalk.org Subject: Re: [LincolnTalk] Community Center - more in-depth analysis and observations. Is it time for a course correction? Ruth Ann - I can’t speak for others, but I am not disagreeing with the location of the proposed community center.  I agree if one was to be built, the Hartwell location is the optimal one.I am disagreeing that we need a community center at all.  I don’t think we should build one.  Instead I think we should replace the current “pods” with new ones to accommodate LEAP and PRD. Keep the existing locations and modestly expand the footprints. Upgrade the other existing facilities to the extent needed to accommodate our current programming. That solution is perhaps $5-8m and accomplished all of the mission critical objectives.Candidly, looking at the actual list of programs there are only nine (9) things on there that can’t continue to stay where they are.  And those nine things don’t even close to justify the construction of a new building, in my opinion. I’d encourage other taxpayers to look at the list and see if they think it justifies a solution of the scope and scale proposed. I think the reality is, because of our small size, our town requires the “decentralized” approach we’ve used to date.  Seth On May 10, 2023, at 4:09 PM, Ruth Ann Hendrickson  wrote:Five years or so ago, the assigned committees did an EXHAUSTIVE search for potential sites for a new Community Center including multiple open charettes to discuss locations. The overwhelming choice of the large group of participants was to have the Center at Hartwell. The motion at town meeting was worded to develop options for a Center near Hartwell. That is the CCBC's charge. They are not charged with considering new locations.If a large group of people want to propose a different location, please form yourselves into an ad hoc committee and do the work to flesh out your ideas. You can get a head start by looking at the previous studies that considered other locations. Then ask the Selects if you can present your findings at the fall State of the Town Meeting. It is easy to say there are spaces at the Mall. It is much harder to be specific  - which spaces and what needs could be accommodated there.I look forward the hearing  your proposals. New ideas are always worth consideration.Ruth Ann Hendrickson
(She, her)On 5/10/2023 3:43 PM, Peter Buchthal wrote:We have started a robust discussion on LincolnTalk about the new community center.  It appears that after spending a short amount of time looking at the other available properties in the town, the committee has decided to only focus resources going forward on building a new facility on the Hartwell campus.  Underused town resources require maintenanceWe are a small town with many underused town resources.  Some of our town buildings are in need of overdue maintenance.  Shouldn’t all town buildings be ADA and handicap accessible?Bemis needs a refresh and it will require ongoing maintenance even if we build a community center.  Shouldn’t we figure out how much this future underused building will cost the town to keep it in good shape?  Or are people suggesting the plan is to take it down at some point?  The Pierce House has so much deferred maintenance that it may become unsafe in the near future.  The interior  reminds me of Miss Havish

[LincolnTalk] Sox Tips?

[Michael Dembowski]

Suggestions for navigating the way to Fenway Park Monday AM w/ a 5 year old 
would be appreciated. 
Go B’s, C’s, Sox and Ohtani -how’s that work? 
Michael Dembowski 
Conant Road 
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Lincoln is NOT burning

[Michael Dembowski]

Does anyone have knowledge of how such a fire could start in mulch? - a common enough material widely used. What measures could homeowners take to help prevent such a horrible incident?Michael DembowskiConant Road On Apr 13, 2023, at 5:41 PM, Alice Waugh  wrote:My mistake for not including the link where it said "click here" for April 10. Here is the story about the Weston fire.Alice WaughEditor, The Lincoln Squirrel and The Lincoln Chipmunklincolnsquirreln...@gmail.com617-710-5542 (mobile)www.watusiwords.comOn Thu, Apr 13, 2023 at 11:41 AM Steve Kropper  wrote:If you were in a hurry and read the Chipmunk's Police log for April 3–9, 2023, you might think the town was burning up.  From the details in the Chipmunk and a call I just had with the Fire Department, here's my summary of incendiary activity (not dialog!) in Lincoln last week.  Thanks of course to Alice Waugh for source material!Cambridge Turnpike/ Old County Road brush fireLincoln Road A caller reported a BBQ fireNorth Avenue, Weston — Lincoln fire responded to a house fireBeaver Pond Road — campfire in the woodsFarrar Road — brush fire by Lincoln town line w/ burn permit.Weston Road — an out-of-control brush fireSteve Kropper, PartnerSkunk Works Fund60 Weston RoadP. O. Box 6338Lincoln, MA 01773krop...@skunkworksfund.com617 306 9312
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Community Center Design Team Announcement

[Michael Dembowski]

Alice, thank you for the link to the Lincoln Squirrel article.
And thanks to the one person who suggested I opt in to receive
what information the committee has posted about its meetings.

My questions, however, remain unanswered - no one has offered a response on
LT or thru personal email - and, yes, I have checked the spam folder.
More surprisingly, my questions have sparked no dialogue - NONE - which is
truly an anomaly with this town and this forum. Lincoln? Bueller?

The School Project Building Committee clearly set the bar with
communications and community engagement to lead a project through to a
successful town vote.
Even at the earliest stages, I easily recall the wide public notifications
given of architect interviews - which I attended and participated in.

So it begs the question - why is this process so markedly different? -
especially as it necessarily will require the same town vote and approval?

Michael Dembowski
Conant Road


On Wed, Mar 8, 2023 at 8:25 PM Alice Waugh  wrote:

> Hi Michael et al,
>
> I just posted a story with a bit more detail in the Lincoln Squirrel:
>
> Design firm for community center is chosen
> <https://lincolnsquirrel.com/2023/03/design-firm-for-community-center-is-chosen/>
>
>
> Alice Waugh
>
> Editor, The Lincoln Squirrel <https://www.lincolnsquirrel.com> and The
> Lincoln Chipmunk <http://chipmunk.lincolnsquirrel.com>
>
> lincolnsquirreln...@gmail.com
>
> 617-710-5542 (mobile)
>
> www.watusiwords.com
>
>
> On Wed, Mar 8, 2023 at 2:08 PM Michael Dembowski 
> wrote:
>
>> As a point of information - not recalling information being
>> posted/disseminated nor finding information on-line easily - a few
>> questions:
>> -Did the warrant article - or any explanation/presentation of the article
>> - make clear that a new architect selection process would be undertaken -
>> or be required?
>> -Was there any public notice of architect interviews?, listing of
>> architects under consideration?. published meeting notes of the discussion
>> and vote?
>> -Was Maryann Thompson Architects considered as part of this process? The
>> Community Center Building Committee website still highlights the Maryann
>> Thompson scheme.
>>
>> I am happy to see this project moving forward for larger
>> consideration/debate - wanting to have faith in the process yet lacking
>> knowledge of where and how information is communicated.
>> Thanks in advance and full apologies if I simply have missed many a prior
>> communication - which could easily earn me condemnation in this town.
>>
>> Michael Dembowski
>> Conant Road
>>
>> On Tue, Mar 7, 2023 at 11:47 PM Krystal Wood <
>> ccbccommunicationscommit...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>
>>> COMMUNITY CENTER BUILDING COMMITTEE
>>>
>>> March 7, 2023
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> The Community Center Building Committee is pleased to announce that the
>>> Town of Lincoln has entered into a contract with ICON Architecture, for
>>> professional services associated with the development of plans for a
>>> community center within the Hartwell Campus on the Ballfield Road school
>>> campus.  ICON will assist the CCBC in reviewing and refining the program
>>> that has been developed for a new community center, and it will develop
>>> schematic design options at various cost levels so that town residents can
>>> make a fully informed choice on a preferred design and budget at a Special
>>> Town Meeting in November.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> ICON Architecture is 50-person women-owned business based in Boston that
>>> specializes in institutional building types, building renewal,
>>> multi-family, and affordable housing.  The CCBC selected ICON after a
>>> careful screening and selection process, which included interviews of four
>>> firms (from among the six that submitted proposals), and an in-depth review
>>> of the two finalists.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Representatives of ICON will attend the CCBC meeting on Wednesday, March
>>> 8, to be held at 7:00 p.m. in the Donaldson Room at Town Offices, or over
>>> zoom for those who prefer to participate remotely:
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Join Zoom Meeting
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88568397168?pwd=QStkUEZad0JTNmFSaVNPQS85cGtJdz09
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Meeting ID: 885 6839 7168
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Passcode: 579905
>>> --
>>> The LincolnTalk mailing list.
>>> To post, send 

Re: [LincolnTalk] Community Center Design Team Announcement

[Michael Dembowski]

As a point of information - not recalling information being
posted/disseminated nor finding information on-line easily - a few
questions:
-Did the warrant article - or any explanation/presentation of the article -
make clear that a new architect selection process would be undertaken - or
be required?
-Was there any public notice of architect interviews?, listing of
architects under consideration?. published meeting notes of the discussion
and vote?
-Was Maryann Thompson Architects considered as part of this process? The
Community Center Building Committee website still highlights the Maryann
Thompson scheme.

I am happy to see this project moving forward for larger
consideration/debate - wanting to have faith in the process yet lacking
knowledge of where and how information is communicated.
Thanks in advance and full apologies if I simply have missed many a prior
communication - which could easily earn me condemnation in this town.

Michael Dembowski
Conant Road

On Tue, Mar 7, 2023 at 11:47 PM Krystal Wood <
ccbccommunicationscommit...@gmail.com> wrote:

> COMMUNITY CENTER BUILDING COMMITTEE
>
> March 7, 2023
>
>
>
> The Community Center Building Committee is pleased to announce that the
> Town of Lincoln has entered into a contract with ICON Architecture, for
> professional services associated with the development of plans for a
> community center within the Hartwell Campus on the Ballfield Road school
> campus.  ICON will assist the CCBC in reviewing and refining the program
> that has been developed for a new community center, and it will develop
> schematic design options at various cost levels so that town residents can
> make a fully informed choice on a preferred design and budget at a Special
> Town Meeting in November.
>
>
>
> ICON Architecture is 50-person women-owned business based in Boston that
> specializes in institutional building types, building renewal,
> multi-family, and affordable housing.  The CCBC selected ICON after a
> careful screening and selection process, which included interviews of four
> firms (from among the six that submitted proposals), and an in-depth review
> of the two finalists.
>
>
>
> Representatives of ICON will attend the CCBC meeting on Wednesday, March
> 8, to be held at 7:00 p.m. in the Donaldson Room at Town Offices, or over
> zoom for those who prefer to participate remotely:
>
>
>
> Join Zoom Meeting
>
>
>
> https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88568397168?pwd=QStkUEZad0JTNmFSaVNPQS85cGtJdz09
>
>
>
> Meeting ID: 885 6839 7168
>
>
>
> Passcode: 579905
> --
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> 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] Community Center

[Michael Dembowski]

The Town’s dialogue regarding the proposed Community Center is engaging,
healthy and vital. However, many of the comments being expressed would be
made no matter what the budget – the initial $10-15M estimated cost or the
current COVID and inflationary driven $25M. Many townspeople simply don’t
want to see additional tax increases, don’t know fully the program needs
and current condition of the COA, Recreation Department and LEAP facilities
or don’t know of the diligent work of the Community Center Committees that
date back to 2012. Many of the suggestions and recommendations being made-
whether thinking ‘out of the box’ or being ‘prudent and cost conscious’
seem to be out of step with the process, uninformed by the work completed
to date or are more direct in wanting to prematurely shut down further
town-wide consideration of a Community Center.

I am surprised at the apparent lack of good faith that those who have been
directing this project to date have not thought of – and heard – and
evaluated each suggestion offered. Does no one think that the Community
Center Committees have not examined Bemis and Pierce Hall?, not looked at
concurrent uses with the school programs?, not researched relevant program
use data and benchmarking from other towns?, not been mindful of costs,
budgetary constraints and the community’s reception to property tax
increases?- especially following the school project???

Voting YES on the next week’s ballot only approves limited monies for the
further development of the proposed Community Center – a process that I
would expect would be as transparent and participatory as the school
project had been- incorporating the myriad voices and concerns now being
expressed while also allowing for the possibility of securing private funds
to help offset any future potential tax increase.

We are all privileged to live in this remarkable town – but privilege
should prompt responsibility. Lincoln’s uniqueness is inextricably
intertwined with its large sized properties, extensive conservation lands,
farms and network of trails- all of which are universally appreciated and
valued. However – the same lack of population and housing density can make
Lincoln an extremely challenging place to live well and thrive in as we age
– as we ALL age.

The Community Center Project embodies a VISION that is lost in much of the
current dialogue of costs, budgets and potential taxes – one that should be
considered in the context of wanting Lincoln to be a community that has the
amenities, facilities and services that make it a desirable and more
manageable town to live in *for all of one’s life*.


Michael Dembowski
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Re: [LincolnTalk] All things Verizon…

[Michael Dembowski]

Thanks - also down on Conant since about 530 - M

> On Feb 20, 2022, at 8:00 PM, Diana Abrashkin  wrote:
> 
> 
> Beware of the squirrels -- they destroyed our first floor in Cincinnati where 
> I grew up. And that's when I learned that they are actually rodents.  And 
> Terminix wants $1K to find how they're getting in here. I have a Black Walnut 
> tree & the squirrels bring the nuts inside here to enjoy at their leisure. 
> They put 3 nuts each in my shoes -- so I'll never need shoe trees, and put 
> their extra nuts in my drawers.(No I don't mean my underdrawers!) but they're 
> capable of anything. Yikes!
> Diana Abrashkin, Registered Architect
> www.CuracaoWithDiana.com
> www.ADCarchitecture.com
> US telephone (781) 259-0203
> 
> 
>> On Sun, Feb 20, 2022 at 7:46 PM Sara Mattes  wrote:
>> … are down on Conant Rd until further notice.
>> Wires eaten by squirrels being replaced .
>> ( Glad I chose a different carrier for my phone!)
>> 
>> Sent from my iPhone
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[LincolnTalk] Toilet Disposal

[Michael Dembowski]

We have (4) toilets to dispose of - hoping to off-load them before they
become snow sculptures.
Transfer Station/Swap Table say NO, Doherty's says NO, Orifice says, 'if
you are a regular customer' - we're not.
Best bet found so far - by way of City of Waltham's website is Conigliaro's
in Framingham - drop-off allowed for $25.00 per.
If Framingham were on my regular commute - oh yeah, I have no commute these
days.
Any recommendations for another option would be welcome.
Thanks!
-Michael Dembowski
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[LincolnTalk] Dentist Recommendations

[Michael Dembowski]

Absent the archives - (this is getting old, no?) - any recommendations for
general (adult) dentistry would be welcome.
Thank you
Michael Dembowski
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Re: [LincolnTalk] ISO: Piano Tuner/Technician

[Michael Dembowski]

Can recommend Jonathan Tetzlaff w/o hesitation or reservation. 
Michael 

Jonathan Tetzlaff, RPT
Technical Director
M. Steinert & Sons
617-426-1900


> On Oct 20, 2021, at 4:07 PM, Debra Daugherty  wrote:
> 
> 
> Hi Rachel,
> 
> (James) Patrick Draine
> dra...@me.com
> 
> --Debra Daugherty
> 
>> On Wed, Oct 20, 2021 at 3:41 PM Rachel Marie Schachter 
>>  wrote:
>> Hello, Lincoln –
>> 
>> I'm sure this has been asked a million times, and if the archives are 
>> searchable again and I just haven't figured it out, feel free to set me 
>> straight, but otherwise – any recommendations for a piano tuner and/or 
>> technician?
>> 
>> Thank you!
>> 
>> Rachel
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Remedy for Browning Pine Needles?

[Michael Dembowski]

Tree Notes/Questions:
Re: Browning Pines - I've noted the same condition extending on and beyond
our property through Lincoln.
I appreciate others noting it here. I was wondering whether my taking note
of this was a consequence of moving my workspace upstairs with a direct
line of sight into the muddled pines.

Re: Hemlocks - has anyone NOT sprayed yearly for Wooly Algid and had any
infestation/deforestation - and regrets? We've sprayed to date but the
service (witnessed) has been so inconsistent, we are questioning the need
and the expenditure.

Many thanks
Michael

On Thu, Oct 14, 2021 at 9:13 AM Daniela Caride 
wrote:

> All pines lose a third of their needles every year. It could very well be
> part of their natural process. It's hard to tell from the picture because
> there's a lot of greenery in the back.
>
> Do you see any signs of complete browning of the tree? That would signify
> the tree dying.
>
> On Thu, Oct 14, 2021 at 8:18 AM John F. Carr 
> wrote:
>
>> I was about to email with the same question.  I noticed the
>> downward-facing needles tend to brown more than upward-facing needles.
>> In addition to the common native white pines, an ornamental Japanese
>> umbrella pine is also affected.
>>
>> A half mile away the pines all seem healthy.
>>
>> On 10/14/21, Carol Kochmann  wrote:
>> > Hi All.  I was away for a few days.  Upon my return on just about every
>> > pine on our property the needles are turning brown (dying?).  (See
>> > attached.)  We've been here for many years and I've never seen this
>> > previously, at least not to this extent.  Does anyone know what's going
>> > on?  Can I stop the apparent loss of all of these trees?
>> >
>> > Thanks in advance for any advice.
>> >
>> > Carol
>> >
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Re: [LincolnTalk] Melissa and Doug puzzles for toddlers

[Michael Dembowski]

This is ABSOLUTELY WRONG!!!
We just dropped these puzzles off at the Swap Table within the past hour. They 
were immediately taken - and now I feel we’ve been taken - as has the whole 
spirit and intent of the Swap Table.  They were being given free to be enjoyed, 
not profited from. 
Michael Dembowski 

> On Aug 14, 2021, at 10:58 AM, Victoria Benalfew  wrote:
> 
> 
> 24 piece car puzzle 
> 48 piece dinosaur puzzle
> 24 piece animal puzzle 
> 
> All pieces are there and in great condition. 
> 
> $12 for all. 
> 
> (I can only post one picture on LincolnTalk but I am happy to provide 
> pictures of the others in an email.)
> 
> 
> 
> <20210814_104427.jpg>
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