Judy Hill
Judy Hill's projects
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Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
Commented on Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
That public hearing is important, as is the event the next night April 26 on the Climate Solutions Series, 7:30 at Willard School. See the flyer here: http://files.constantcontact.com/c6979f58201/cf7581ca-fdff-4d4c-b39e-9e84efa8c42f.pdf
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
Tanya Gailus
Relatedly: About the "Values Statement" at the end of Section 1 : "The Town of Concord seeks sustainable growth and diversity that protects its historic and natural resources, while preserving its values, qualities and culture." The primary goal should not be "growth" - even when "sustainable." The bulk of public comment has not been about growth, but about preserving what is good, plus "affordable housing" - not "growth." Push for growth has likely come from closed meetings with business and development interests as mentioned above - ie a handful of individuals - not "Town of Concord."
Values Statement should instead read: "The Town of Concord seeks to preserve and protect its historic and natural resources, qualities, and culture, while inviting diversity and encouraging sustainable growth as needed."
Relatedly: About the "Values Statement" at the end of Section 1 : "The Town of Concord seeks sustainable growth and diversity that protects its historic and natural resources, while preserving its values, qualities and culture." The primary goal should not be "growth" - even when "sustainable." The bulk of public comment has not been about growth, but about preserving what is good, plus "affordable housing" - not "growth." Push for growth has likely come from closed meetings with business and development interests as mentioned above - ie a handful of individuals - not "Town of Concord."
Values Statement should instead read: "The Town of Concord seeks to preserve and protect its historic and natural resources, qualities, and culture, while inviting diversity and encouraging sustainable growth as needed."
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
Tanya Gailus
In the introduction, a statement about authentic participation says: "Not replacing existing processes of participatory democracy in Concord (Town Meeting, public hearings), but supplementing these to draw broader participation and input." This reveals a misunderstanding about democratic process. Replacing democratic process in the Long Range Plan was never an option in the first place. Nor is the matter Concord specific or limited to Town Meeting and Public Hearings. Transparency rules and guidelines about democratic process are State mandated. The "authentic participation" should have taken place according to proper public process, certainly involving everyone, but inviting parties to state their views openly and publicly, in person or by proxy. Instead, the democratic process was thwarted by extending special privileged private input to for-profit parties, using public funds. Relatedly, persistently calling the CLRPC the "Envision Concord Committee" reduces the solemn and central public function of the committee to that of a subordinate and is (unintentionally) pejorative. Similar to calling a Ms. Y. "Mrs. X." when Ms. Y. is the leader of a joint project. The project is Envision Concord. The Committee is the Comprehensive Long Range Plan Committee. The sentence "Not replacing ...." exposes lack of understanding at best and an over-protesting denial of correct process evasion at worst. The Long Range Plan has been a public private partnership, except in this case the public has helped finance private interests - rather than the other way around. Very disappointing that CLRPC and its chairs continue to play along.
In the introduction, a statement about authentic participation says: "Not replacing existing processes of participatory democracy in Concord (Town Meeting, public hearings), but supplementing these to draw broader participation and input." This reveals a misunderstanding about democratic process. Replacing democratic process in the Long Range Plan was never an option in the first place. Nor is the matter Concord specific or limited to Town Meeting and Public Hearings. Transparency rules and guidelines about democratic process are State mandated. The "authentic participation" should have taken place according to proper public process, certainly involving everyone, but inviting parties to state their views openly and publicly, in person or by proxy. Instead, the democratic process was thwarted by extending special privileged private input to for-profit parties, using public funds. Relatedly, persistently calling the CLRPC the "Envision Concord Committee" reduces the solemn and central public function of the committee to that of a subordinate and is (unintentionally) pejorative. Similar to calling a Ms. Y. "Mrs. X." when Ms. Y. is the leader of a joint project. The project is Envision Concord. The Committee is the Comprehensive Long Range Plan Committee. The sentence "Not replacing ...." exposes lack of understanding at best and an over-protesting denial of correct process evasion at worst. The Long Range Plan has been a public private partnership, except in this case the public has helped finance private interests - rather than the other way around. Very disappointing that CLRPC and its chairs continue to play along.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 5 months ago
Tanya Gailus
Thank you, CLRPC, for agreeing to post the above requested documents. Much appreciated.
Thank you, CLRPC, for agreeing to post the above requested documents. Much appreciated.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Tanya Gailus
Jessica, all, this is a great discussion. I just want to reiterate, though, that my initial comment was that Mr. Boynton's implication that only developers will pay the best price, and that the larger the allowed new house the better, is not correct. Otherwise, yes, the seller will of course often (though not necessarily always) sell to the highest bidder - and of course energy efficient measures are desirable in older OR newer homes. The point, though, is that the seller won't necessarily get more money from a developer if we have fewer rules about new house sizes. She/he will still get whatever (more or less) the property is worth. Nor will a developer pay more than someone who wants to use the existing building. So the letter's claims and implications are not necessarily so. The discussion is not whether any new houses should be built. It is whether limiting the size of new construction will in fact hurt the seller, as the letter implies- and it probably will not.
Jessica, all, this is a great discussion. I just want to reiterate, though, that my initial comment was that Mr. Boynton's implication that only developers will pay the best price, and that the larger the allowed new house the better, is not correct. Otherwise, yes, the seller will of course often (though not necessarily always) sell to the highest bidder - and of course energy efficient measures are desirable in older OR newer homes. The point, though, is that the seller won't necessarily get more money from a developer if we have fewer rules about new house sizes. She/he will still get whatever (more or less) the property is worth. Nor will a developer pay more than someone who wants to use the existing building. So the letter's claims and implications are not necessarily so. The discussion is not whether any new houses should be built. It is whether limiting the size of new construction will in fact hurt the seller, as the letter implies- and it probably will not.
Supported a comment by Brianne K on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Brianne K
I also live on Elsinore Street (14 years as a renter, outbid on an offer I placed about three years ago on a home), and am seeing the change take place in this neighborhood as several houses over the past few years have sold to developers, who in turn build a "McMansion" that in no way complements Concord's history or historic vibe, while taking up a good deal of land, and driving up the cost of for all homes in the neighborhood significantly. The cost of a 1000 sq. foot home is now roughly 700,000, making it impossible for many (including myself) to own in this neighborhood, or Concord in general. Even rents are sky high. E.g., 1 bedroom 688 sq. foot apartment in W. Concord for $2,300 plus utilities! Concord is no longer affordable to the middle class (unless you earn so little income you qualify for affordable housing). On a happy note, the house next door to my building was torn down, as the owners are rebuilding with "green" in mind. :-)
I also live on Elsinore Street (14 years as a renter, outbid on an offer I placed about three years ago on a home), and am seeing the change take place in this neighborhood as several houses over the past few years have sold to developers, who in turn build a "McMansion" that in no way complements Concord's history or historic vibe, while taking up a good deal of land, and driving up the cost of for all homes in the neighborhood significantly. The cost of a 1000 sq. foot home is now roughly 700,000, making it impossible for many (including myself) to own in this neighborhood, or Concord in general. Even rents are sky high. E.g., 1 bedroom 688 sq. foot apartment in W. Concord for $2,300 plus utilities! Concord is no longer affordable to the middle class (unless you earn so little income you qualify for affordable housing). On a happy note, the house next door to my building was torn down, as the owners are rebuilding with "green" in mind. :-)
Supported a comment by India Hoeschen-Stein on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
India Hoeschen-Stein
Jessica - I don't agree that these 60 year old ranch houses are fuel suckers. I worked as an engineer in the energy industry for many years and most (if now all these houses) were insulated and retrofitted during the 90's under the demand-side management era. The gas utilities were offering huge subsidies for energy improvements for many years.
I definitely agree that for folks selling their house they will take the best offer. Unfortunately, small, affordable energy efficient houses are not being built in their place. Across the street from me a 960 sqft (3 bedrm, 1 bath) selling for $580,000 was replaced by a 4,600 sqft home with 4 bedrms and one bath costing $1.6 million. At the rate that this is happening across Town I can guarantee that Concord will see it's energy use (and cost) rise and age and income diversity will also disappear.
Jessica - I don't agree that these 60 year old ranch houses are fuel suckers. I worked as an engineer in the energy industry for many years and most (if now all these houses) were insulated and retrofitted during the 90's under the demand-side management era. The gas utilities were offering huge subsidies for energy improvements for many years.
I definitely agree that for folks selling their house they will take the best offer. Unfortunately, small, affordable energy efficient houses are not being built in their place. Across the street from me a 960 sqft (3 bedrm, 1 bath) selling for $580,000 was replaced by a 4,600 sqft home with 4 bedrms and one bath costing $1.6 million. At the rate that this is happening across Town I can guarantee that Concord will see it's energy use (and cost) rise and age and income diversity will also disappear.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Tanya Gailus
It is not necessarily true that the original seller wins either. There is no need to assume that an average family or starter couple (or even a middle aged empty nester couple) would not pay good market value for a modest ranch in a treesy setting with other local advantages, - whereas a developer would try to bargain the price down since the existing building would be of no value to them.
It is not necessarily true that the original seller wins either. There is no need to assume that an average family or starter couple (or even a middle aged empty nester couple) would not pay good market value for a modest ranch in a treesy setting with other local advantages, - whereas a developer would try to bargain the price down since the existing building would be of no value to them.
Supported a comment by Jeffrey Kerr on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Jeffrey Kerr
Concord has allowed developers to have their way with the town. Unlike other towns in the Western suburbs, Concord has been slow to build protective regulations and reluctant to enforce the rules it makes. A quick glance at the Concord Journal, basically an advertising arm of the real estate companies, gives a useful snapshot of the many ways the town is being mined. It would not take that much to create neighborhood friendly requirements that both allow for new building and preserve the aesthetics of the town. Its not a good thing that Concord is being filled in by the same three huge Colonials over and over and over.
Concord has allowed developers to have their way with the town. Unlike other towns in the Western suburbs, Concord has been slow to build protective regulations and reluctant to enforce the rules it makes. A quick glance at the Concord Journal, basically an advertising arm of the real estate companies, gives a useful snapshot of the many ways the town is being mined. It would not take that much to create neighborhood friendly requirements that both allow for new building and preserve the aesthetics of the town. Its not a good thing that Concord is being filled in by the same three huge Colonials over and over and over.
Commented on Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Thank you India H, for including Mr. Boynton,s response. The home-replacements projects he gives for examples seem to serve the opposite of diversity. The original seller of a ranch wins, the buyer (eg., Ms. Boynton), in order to put up a larger new home, wins when she sells the house, but the town does not win. Developers can't keep building bigger, $1m-plus homes and expect teachers and firemen to buy them. They will be bought, instead, by two and three-car commuter families making large incomes, and Concord becomes even more a bedroom community, adding citizens who aren't invested in local issues, other than being sure their children's schools remain great.
Supported a comment by India Hoeschen-Stein on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
India Hoeschen-Stein
Yes, all the affordable ranch houses are being replaced by almost identical looking mini-McMansions that are 3-6 times the square footage. As a result affordable housing is disappearing and our carbon footprint & energy demand/consumption are skyrocketing. My neighborhood (Elsinore Street) has completely transformed in the last 3 years and soon there will be no ranch houses left.
Yes, all the affordable ranch houses are being replaced by almost identical looking mini-McMansions that are 3-6 times the square footage. As a result affordable housing is disappearing and our carbon footprint & energy demand/consumption are skyrocketing. My neighborhood (Elsinore Street) has completely transformed in the last 3 years and soon there will be no ranch houses left.
Commented on Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Yes, I hear you, and it isn't that simple. The committee is working hard. Where I lack some trust is where the developers have had too strong a thread in the process. Their desires are not always in the interest of the town's future.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Tanya Gailus
In this case, there has been a mix of transparency and opacity, which is in some ways more complicated, because there is the "illusion" of transparency (which really is a form of additional opacity.) It is, I believe, even more important, that the public becomes engaged and insists on the committee's own work to receive the visibility and primacy it deserves. I respect the work Committee members have done. I just do not have complete trust in the larger project because of too many behind the scenes elements.
In this case, there has been a mix of transparency and opacity, which is in some ways more complicated, because there is the "illusion" of transparency (which really is a form of additional opacity.) It is, I believe, even more important, that the public becomes engaged and insists on the committee's own work to receive the visibility and primacy it deserves. I respect the work Committee members have done. I just do not have complete trust in the larger project because of too many behind the scenes elements.
Commented on Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Such lack of transparency and availability of the long term plan as it is being developed often cause residents like myself to stay home from public meetings when they occur.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 6 months ago
Tanya Gailus
The Long Range Plan Committee should please post soon the plan drafts that its own chairs provided towards the final document, as well as committee member edits to these. This circulation of these materials among committee members was carried out outside of open meetings (per chairs' described plan on Feb.23), via using consultant as an intermediary, which is very likely still against the Open Meeting Law. It is also simply ethical for the public to know what the CLRPC itself recommended, given all the private interviews and meetings consultant had with select developers and business interests. Authenticity is one thing, secrecy and opacity is another. The Attorney General recently found that the CLRPC had violated the Open Meeting Law during survey preparation. http://www.oml.ago.state.ma.us It is also ironic that this webpage service, coUrbanize, boasts (rightly) in its publicity that contributors have accountability because we sign in with our names and emails, whereas the consultant boasted (Sept 8, 2017) the utmost privacy they provide to the developers they interviewed.
The Long Range Plan Committee should please post soon the plan drafts that its own chairs provided towards the final document, as well as committee member edits to these. This circulation of these materials among committee members was carried out outside of open meetings (per chairs' described plan on Feb.23), via using consultant as an intermediary, which is very likely still against the Open Meeting Law. It is also simply ethical for the public to know what the CLRPC itself recommended, given all the private interviews and meetings consultant had with select developers and business interests. Authenticity is one thing, secrecy and opacity is another. The Attorney General recently found that the CLRPC had violated the Open Meeting Law during survey preparation. http://www.oml.ago.state.ma.us It is also ironic that this webpage service, coUrbanize, boasts (rightly) in its publicity that contributors have accountability because we sign in with our names and emails, whereas the consultant boasted (Sept 8, 2017) the utmost privacy they provide to the developers they interviewed.
Commented on Envision Concord
5 years, 7 months ago
Zoning regulations and setbacks from rivers and ponds are there for a purpose. It's always disappointing to see builders applying for exceptions, particularly for their projects near rivers and within buffer zones. Then to see those exceptions allowed by Planning and/or ZBA.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 7 months ago
Tanya Gailus
When we think of change happening "whether we want it or not," we should also remember that as chief consultant Ms. Silberberg mentioned during a CLRPC meeting, some of this change will be from outside sources, outside of Concord's control. This is precisely why we should avoid predicting what these outside effects might be and not presume in advance any *particular* kind of change. As such, all envisioned implementation proposals that are of a predictive nature should be accompanied by the qualification "if it becomes necessary." This applies to zoning change suggestions, for example, and to other issues as well - though not, for example, to improved intra-town transportation, which is a *current* popular item. Meanwhile, I appreciate that Mr. Kleiman included tree preservation as a desirable condition in land use policy recommendations. Thank you.
When we think of change happening "whether we want it or not," we should also remember that as chief consultant Ms. Silberberg mentioned during a CLRPC meeting, some of this change will be from outside sources, outside of Concord's control. This is precisely why we should avoid predicting what these outside effects might be and not presume in advance any *particular* kind of change. As such, all envisioned implementation proposals that are of a predictive nature should be accompanied by the qualification "if it becomes necessary." This applies to zoning change suggestions, for example, and to other issues as well - though not, for example, to improved intra-town transportation, which is a *current* popular item. Meanwhile, I appreciate that Mr. Kleiman included tree preservation as a desirable condition in land use policy recommendations. Thank you.
Supported a comment by mark gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 8 months ago
mark gailus
Let the Long Range Plan specifically include a goal of preserving nature in residential areas. The benefits of nature need not be restricted to "conservation lands." Neighborhoods with mature tree canopies and mini-meadows provide wildlife corridors and habitat, benefits to human health, and nature instruction to those who pay attention. They multiply the benefits of adjacent conservation lands. Make it a goal to support pollinator and bird friendly native plantings, and to reduce general pesticide use and avoid lawn care methods that require gasoline powered equipment, fungicides, and chemical fertilizers. All great for "Town Character" and "Sustainability."
Let the Long Range Plan specifically include a goal of preserving nature in residential areas. The benefits of nature need not be restricted to "conservation lands." Neighborhoods with mature tree canopies and mini-meadows provide wildlife corridors and habitat, benefits to human health, and nature instruction to those who pay attention. They multiply the benefits of adjacent conservation lands. Make it a goal to support pollinator and bird friendly native plantings, and to reduce general pesticide use and avoid lawn care methods that require gasoline powered equipment, fungicides, and chemical fertilizers. All great for "Town Character" and "Sustainability."
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 8 months ago
Tanya Gailus
Wildlife preservation has not been specifically covered by the committee so far. A similar view is in Mr. Richard Forman's letter posted by the Town earlier on this site, on November 22. https://res.cloudinary.com/courbanize-production/image/upload/v1/information_plans/etk3arqhxtp8j8ulso35
Mr. Forman states, in his third paragraph:
. "Protect land so that key native species can readily move across town. The rich protected lands of Concord are fundamental resources providing enviable water, wildlife, and walking. A few large areas such as Estabrook Woods support an array of forest-interior species scarce elsewhere, and thus of high importance. But, as a Google Earth image makes clear, Concord’s land is fragmented by buildings,
roads and other features. To survive or thrive, animals “need to” move. Think of amphibians/reptiles moving along soil. Establishing, and protecting, spatial patterns across our town that provide connectivity for wildlife in different directions is critical to maintaining valuable biodiversity in the face of both climate change and ongoing urbanization."
Wildlife preservation has not been specifically covered by the committee so far. A similar view is in Mr. Richard Forman's letter posted by the Town earlier on this site, on November 22. https://res.cloudinary.com/courbanize-production/image/upload/v1/information_plans/etk3arqhxtp8j8ulso35
Mr. Forman states, in his third paragraph:
. "Protect land so that key native species can readily move across town. The rich protected lands of Concord are fundamental resources providing enviable water, wildlife, and walking. A few large areas such as Estabrook Woods support an array of forest-interior species scarce elsewhere, and thus of high importance. But, as a Google Earth image makes clear, Concord’s land is fragmented by buildings,
roads and other features. To survive or thrive, animals “need to” move. Think of amphibians/reptiles moving along soil. Establishing, and protecting, spatial patterns across our town that provide connectivity for wildlife in different directions is critical to maintaining valuable biodiversity in the face of both climate change and ongoing urbanization."
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Tanya Gailus
Preserving Neighborhood Trees: I have been looking over the current drafts for vision for concord, opportunities, and the element of preserving trees and nature "within neighborhoods" is missing. The physical and mental health value of having trees within one's neighborhood should not be underestimated. Natural conservation should not be limited only to designated parcels of interest.
Preserving Neighborhood Trees: I have been looking over the current drafts for vision for concord, opportunities, and the element of preserving trees and nature "within neighborhoods" is missing. The physical and mental health value of having trees within one's neighborhood should not be underestimated. Natural conservation should not be limited only to designated parcels of interest.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Tanya Gailus
I support Mr. Forman's comments and encourage everyone to click on the "letter" link above and read the actual letter. I hope Mr. Forman will also know that his comments were supported - since an automatic notification might not go to him from coUrbanize, as he is not the one who posted his letter here,
I support Mr. Forman's comments and encourage everyone to click on the "letter" link above and read the actual letter. I hope Mr. Forman will also know that his comments were supported - since an automatic notification might not go to him from coUrbanize, as he is not the one who posted his letter here,
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 9 months ago
Tanya Gailus
BTW, repeating myself: There is no "Envision Concord Committee." There may be an "Envision Concord" project. But the consultant is not part of the Committee, which is the CLRPC. Please stop using this misleading language, which gives people the impression that the consultant and the Committee carry equal weight in this process. They don't.
BTW, repeating myself: There is no "Envision Concord Committee." There may be an "Envision Concord" project. But the consultant is not part of the Committee, which is the CLRPC. Please stop using this misleading language, which gives people the impression that the consultant and the Committee carry equal weight in this process. They don't.
Supported a comment by Mark Hanson on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Mark Hanson
Pedestrian light is delayed too long after activation encouraging J-walking. Giving pedestrians their crossing light sooner would increase traffic safety.
A second problem with this intersection is the log queues that form northbound on Sudbury road. This is a traffic - sensitive light that needs to hold green for northbound traffic longer.
Pedestrian light is delayed too long after activation encouraging J-walking. Giving pedestrians their crossing light sooner would increase traffic safety.
A second problem with this intersection is the log queues that form northbound on Sudbury road. This is a traffic - sensitive light that needs to hold green for northbound traffic longer.
Supported a comment by Andy Smith on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Andy Smith
Need better road striping to indicate you're entering a rotary. People often fly into the rotary without realizing it needs to be treated as such.
Need better road striping to indicate you're entering a rotary. People often fly into the rotary without realizing it needs to be treated as such.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Tanya Gailus
Thank you. However, I think one may be needed near Concord Center or East Concord as well. What I have in mind is not 'hot weather' type of emergencies, but unexpected and more urgent emergencies - hurricanes, tornadoes, and even military emergencies.. In any case, we may need one for other parts of town as well.
Thank you. However, I think one may be needed near Concord Center or East Concord as well. What I have in mind is not 'hot weather' type of emergencies, but unexpected and more urgent emergencies - hurricanes, tornadoes, and even military emergencies.. In any case, we may need one for other parts of town as well.
Supported a comment by Andy Smith on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Andy Smith
Install electric vehicle charging stations at the Keyes Road Parking lot. Designate some for daily employees parking for the day and others for short-term visitor parking to encourage turnover for local business shopping.
Install electric vehicle charging stations at the Keyes Road Parking lot. Designate some for daily employees parking for the day and others for short-term visitor parking to encourage turnover for local business shopping.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Tanya Gailus
CLRPC should take charge: The CLRPC needs to run its own public hearings as required by its charge and should not substitute consultant- led gatherings in their place. The CLRPC, not consultant, should formulate initial draft plan. Otherwise change the committee's charge to at least factually reflect what is happening . More public attendance at committee meetings is encouraged.
CLRPC should take charge: The CLRPC needs to run its own public hearings as required by its charge and should not substitute consultant- led gatherings in their place. The CLRPC, not consultant, should formulate initial draft plan. Otherwise change the committee's charge to at least factually reflect what is happening . More public attendance at committee meetings is encouraged.
Supported a comment by S. Symons on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
S. Symons
Or limit street parking to ONE side of the street.
Or limit street parking to ONE side of the street.
Supported a comment by Kevin Neijstrom on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Kevin Neijstrom
Bring trees back to Commonwealth Avenue! Old photos depict a tree-lined street. Our modern street has limited shade and is designed around how many cars we can park along it. It's a great town but could be a more beautiful and useful one.
Bring trees back to Commonwealth Avenue! Old photos depict a tree-lined street. Our modern street has limited shade and is designed around how many cars we can park along it. It's a great town but could be a more beautiful and useful one.
Supported a comment by Mark Hanson on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Mark Hanson
Electric trains are a great idea as it would facilitate providing better, more reliable service. Electrifying the line is an expense, but the reduction in operating costs over time and the lower cost of vehicles would more than make up the difference.
Electric trains are a great idea as it would facilitate providing better, more reliable service. Electrifying the line is an expense, but the reduction in operating costs over time and the lower cost of vehicles would more than make up the difference.
Supported a comment by Bill Montague on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Bill Montague
Start up a movie in the Scout House or 51 Walden to show old classic movies. So folks will have a reason to go out and get away from their T.V.s
Start up a movie in the Scout House or 51 Walden to show old classic movies. So folks will have a reason to go out and get away from their T.V.s
Supported a comment by Sarah Bustin on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Sarah Bustin
The Concord Scout House is a beautiful place. It should continue to receive support and maintenance from the Town. Folk dancing run by the New England Folk Festival Association on Thursdays brings many visitors to Concord.
The Concord Scout House is a beautiful place. It should continue to receive support and maintenance from the Town. Folk dancing run by the New England Folk Festival Association on Thursdays brings many visitors to Concord.
Supported a comment by Andy Smith on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Andy Smith
Provide benches or picnic tables in Chamberlin Park and other public spaces around Concord Center. There are too few places to sit to rest or eat lunch.
Provide benches or picnic tables in Chamberlin Park and other public spaces around Concord Center. There are too few places to sit to rest or eat lunch.
Supported a comment by Michelle Touw on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Michelle Touw
All large businesses should have to provide set % of renewable too, like solar, and there should be higher ratrs for high volune water usage by homes and businesses to reduce wasteful use of precious water supplies.
All large businesses should have to provide set % of renewable too, like solar, and there should be higher ratrs for high volune water usage by homes and businesses to reduce wasteful use of precious water supplies.
Supported a comment by Brian Foulds on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Brian Foulds
Concord Light should work with commercial customers on the installation of energy storage systems to manage building demand and Concord Lights peak expenses. Additional this will allow companies like Crosby's market to remain open during blackouts and keep food from spoiling.
Concord Light should work with commercial customers on the installation of energy storage systems to manage building demand and Concord Lights peak expenses. Additional this will allow companies like Crosby's market to remain open during blackouts and keep food from spoiling.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Tanya Gailus
and we need at least one more shelter - not just for the elderly, but for unexpected emergencies in this era of severe climate activity and political unrest
and we need at least one more shelter - not just for the elderly, but for unexpected emergencies in this era of severe climate activity and political unrest
Supported a comment by Brian Foulds on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Brian Foulds
The Harvey Wheeler Center is a shelter for the elderly when a heat emergency or storm hits Concord. Utility scale batteries should be installed there to ensure the building has power when a during one of these unfortunate events. These batteries can also be used to lower the cost of electricity when operated by Concord Light.
The Harvey Wheeler Center is a shelter for the elderly when a heat emergency or storm hits Concord. Utility scale batteries should be installed there to ensure the building has power when a during one of these unfortunate events. These batteries can also be used to lower the cost of electricity when operated by Concord Light.
Supported a comment by Bill Montague on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Bill Montague
Install Signs all over town so visitors can find their way to North Bridge, Walden Pond, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Also to the Depot area and West Concord. Visa versa.
Install Signs all over town so visitors can find their way to North Bridge, Walden Pond, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Also to the Depot area and West Concord. Visa versa.
Supported a comment by Mark Hanson on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Mark Hanson
Parking buses under solar panels helps reduce operating costs by reducing snow and early morning window frost removal work in winter and keeping the buses dry and out of the sun the rest of the year.
Parking buses under solar panels helps reduce operating costs by reducing snow and early morning window frost removal work in winter and keeping the buses dry and out of the sun the rest of the year.
Supported a comment by Mark Hanson on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Mark Hanson
Land uses that are compatible with environmental improvement such as composting or providing school bus parking closer to CCHS and thereby reducing diesel fuel use by simplifying / reducing total bus miles traveled as presented in 2016 during the discussion of Article 16 are compatible with the spirit of Thoreau's philosophy. Parking buses there under solar panels would be a good step toward meeting the goals of reducing CO2 emissions.
Land uses that are compatible with environmental improvement such as composting or providing school bus parking closer to CCHS and thereby reducing diesel fuel use by simplifying / reducing total bus miles traveled as presented in 2016 during the discussion of Article 16 are compatible with the spirit of Thoreau's philosophy. Parking buses there under solar panels would be a good step toward meeting the goals of reducing CO2 emissions.
Supported a comment by Brian Foulds on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Brian Foulds
Concord Light should work with Emerson Hospital to install utility scale energy storage. This system can be used to lower CL rates and ensure the hospital continues to operate during a natural disaster. State incentives are available.
https://www.mass.gov/energy-storage-initiative
Concord Light should work with Emerson Hospital to install utility scale energy storage. This system can be used to lower CL rates and ensure the hospital continues to operate during a natural disaster. State incentives are available.
https://www.mass.gov/energy-storage-initiative
Supported a comment by Matthew Johnson on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Matthew Johnson
I have another suggestion here - Juniors and Seniors should have to earn a number of "green credits" to graduate. They can get these by riding the bus, biking/walking, carpooling or using electric vehicles. Alternatively, they could participate in other projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This would support Article 51 and might also reduce peak traffic, while improving teens' awareness and support for sustainability.
I have another suggestion here - Juniors and Seniors should have to earn a number of "green credits" to graduate. They can get these by riding the bus, biking/walking, carpooling or using electric vehicles. Alternatively, they could participate in other projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This would support Article 51 and might also reduce peak traffic, while improving teens' awareness and support for sustainability.
Supported a comment by Leslie Pelton on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Leslie Pelton
There are stunning numbers of kids who drive to CCHS. The car parking should be limited and expensive. We need multitudes of bike racks, scooter racks. We could collaborate with HubWay of other organizations to make even electric bikes available to our kids. And then give them huge incentives for using them. And, of course, we need safe biking lanes throughout Concord!
There are stunning numbers of kids who drive to CCHS. The car parking should be limited and expensive. We need multitudes of bike racks, scooter racks. We could collaborate with HubWay of other organizations to make even electric bikes available to our kids. And then give them huge incentives for using them. And, of course, we need safe biking lanes throughout Concord!
Supported a comment by OARS Sudbury-Assabet-Concord Rivers on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
OARS Sudbury-Assabet-Concord Rivers
Is there currently a FAR (floor area ratio to plot size) maximum? That could be useful to maintain open space on properties.
Is there currently a FAR (floor area ratio to plot size) maximum? That could be useful to maintain open space on properties.
Supported a comment by Jeffrey Kerr on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Jeffrey Kerr
Protect neighborhood integrity by limiting tear-downs, enforcing house-size to lot size limitations and requiring clear disclosure of buyers identity.
Protect neighborhood integrity by limiting tear-downs, enforcing house-size to lot size limitations and requiring clear disclosure of buyers identity.
Supported a comment by Alice Kaufman on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Alice Kaufman
Our economy thrives on vibrant downtown areas. We may need to think creatively about the business interests that provide so much to our community.
Our economy thrives on vibrant downtown areas. We may need to think creatively about the business interests that provide so much to our community.
Supported a comment by Bill Kemeza on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Bill Kemeza
Concord Center, seems to be losing its vitality as shops close.
A significant way to address this is to make the center itself an experience. Walking, lingering, having commodious places to sit, to eat, to talk. Imagine places where our restaurants could have tables outside. Our stores could have displays where folks could take their time.
Consider widening the sidewalks on the Milldam and Walden street by getting rid of street parking. With signage, direct cars to our parking lots (and negotiate more spaces from private sources) to offset the loss of on-street parking.
The current traffic lanes would remain.
Concord Center, seems to be losing its vitality as shops close.
A significant way to address this is to make the center itself an experience. Walking, lingering, having commodious places to sit, to eat, to talk. Imagine places where our restaurants could have tables outside. Our stores could have displays where folks could take their time.
Consider widening the sidewalks on the Milldam and Walden street by getting rid of street parking. With signage, direct cars to our parking lots (and negotiate more spaces from private sources) to offset the loss of on-street parking.
The current traffic lanes would remain.
Supported a comment by Joe Stein on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Joe Stein
Thanks Tanya. I agree, town character can be somewhat nebulous and different for different people. For me, it's a mosaic - historical structures, an engaged community, thriving local business, tree density, land conservation, and economic diversity.
Thanks Tanya. I agree, town character can be somewhat nebulous and different for different people. For me, it's a mosaic - historical structures, an engaged community, thriving local business, tree density, land conservation, and economic diversity.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Tanya Gailus
to support team: Thank you for re-instating my comment above, which you indicated to me was reviewed because of "sentiment value." As I wrote in response, sentiment is an important part of public dialogue, as long as there is no offensive language. Thank you again.
to support team: Thank you for re-instating my comment above, which you indicated to me was reviewed because of "sentiment value." As I wrote in response, sentiment is an important part of public dialogue, as long as there is no offensive language. Thank you again.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Tanya Gailus
It seems my comment here about survey problem Q 22 has been removed. Check: https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/concord/conversations/messages/54304 I also wrote about the consultant agreeing with me on dismantling the term "town character" but then re-appropriating it to eventually "redefine" it. A contradiction. Either it is an elusive term, or not.
It seems my comment here about survey problem Q 22 has been removed. Check: https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/concord/conversations/messages/54304 I also wrote about the consultant agreeing with me on dismantling the term "town character" but then re-appropriating it to eventually "redefine" it. A contradiction. Either it is an elusive term, or not.
Supported a comment by Joseph Stein on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Joseph Stein
Place a annual cap on the number of properties purchased by developers. Developers are slowly eating away at town character with outsized McMansions - all in the name of profit.
Place a annual cap on the number of properties purchased by developers. Developers are slowly eating away at town character with outsized McMansions - all in the name of profit.
Supported a comment by Tanya Gailus on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Tanya Gailus
The original message in this thread was about a shuttle around Concord. Safe bike paths are important, too, but it need not be either or, since different individuals have different needs,
The original message in this thread was about a shuttle around Concord. Safe bike paths are important, too, but it need not be either or, since different individuals have different needs,
Supported a comment by Martin Alejandro Padilla on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Martin Alejandro Padilla
A bus between Acton's business areas, Concord and West Concord would be a great way of getting rid of 1 of 2 cars in a family. Specially because you can bike in the summer, but not in the winter...
A bus between Acton's business areas, Concord and West Concord would be a great way of getting rid of 1 of 2 cars in a family. Specially because you can bike in the summer, but not in the winter...
Supported a comment by Ruthy Bennett on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Ruthy Bennett
Some kind of shuttle all over Concord so people dont have to drive their car for a short trip or kids can have another option besides being driven.
Some kind of shuttle all over Concord so people dont have to drive their car for a short trip or kids can have another option besides being driven.
Followed Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Supported a comment by Lori Pazaris on
Envision Concord
5 years, 10 months ago
Lori Pazaris
We need to support businesses that provide for the health and well being of Concord residents and promote sustainability. Is the tax base the reason why senior town management seems to sometime favor business over residents? Mail ordering is impacting retail business everywhere. Yes creativity, ensuring that the town lives within its means, and willingness of town government to work with public and not just private interests is critical. Has town management considered sending a survey to local businesses and residents to assess, for example, which businesses are thriving, which businesses residents support the most, and to determine which business will thrive long-term, etc? Civic Moxie asks similar questions here, but not all residents are participating.
We need to support businesses that provide for the health and well being of Concord residents and promote sustainability. Is the tax base the reason why senior town management seems to sometime favor business over residents? Mail ordering is impacting retail business everywhere. Yes creativity, ensuring that the town lives within its means, and willingness of town government to work with public and not just private interests is critical. Has town management considered sending a survey to local businesses and residents to assess, for example, which businesses are thriving, which businesses residents support the most, and to determine which business will thrive long-term, etc? Civic Moxie asks similar questions here, but not all residents are participating.
Sustainability and climate resiliency matters received strong support during Town Meeting, and the committee is deliberating on these aspects with more focus, and also is open to public input in all areas. Please try to attend the Public Hearing on April 25, 7 pm, and also peruse the documents on the CLRPC's webpage, including previous and current meeting documents. http://concordma.gov/1067/Comprehensive-Long-Range-Plan-Comm