Jan 26th Town Meeting

The Jan 26th Town Meeting only took one night. 20 articles appeared on the warrant. Article 3, which passed with a large majority, proposed spending $20k for a recreation planner to help with the layout of the former Wildwood school site in the event the Selectman feel this is the best use of the property. Three years ago when town meeting agreed it was time to raze that building, the members voted for the property to be of a municipal use. As you know, there was some talk of selling this pristine property by some members of the Board of Selectman. My kids were involved in Burlington sports programs in the 80s and 90s and there was always a shortage of playing fields. Also, when the Wildwood building and grounds were deemed unsafe, the neighborhood kids also lost a tot lot. If using the site for recreation purposes moves forward we will perhaps see a tot lot, small basketball court, little league fields and one or two small size soccer fields. A cemetery was also considered for the site. In talking to the DPW, we were told we have enough space for about 8 years .

Article 8 had to do with a new public safety building. Specifically, the article is for a home rule petition that would allow the town to seek out land and assistance in constructing the building from the
private sector. Not only would this article need to be passed by town meeting but the state legislator would need to approve as well. This would be a first for Burlington. A new building would eliminate the outdated fire station at the corner of Terrace Hall Ave and Middlesex Turnpike. The town would then enter into a long-term lease agreement with the private developer, which means the town would not have to bond money for the land or building. There is still a lot of work in this document, even if it passed by the legislator. I certainly agree a new building will be needed but would like this particular approach as a last resort. I have done some research and am finding commercial space that has been vacant for a while. I see some bargains on land in the West Burlington area. It's also important to factor in that the town of Burlington can bond money at a very low interest rate. Town meeting supported this article mainly because there is no financial exposure to the town right now. This building is a few years off, at best.

If you have any questions, email me or give me a call.