Thank you!
IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM
SAVE CHEBACCO TRAILS & WATERSHED
We mark our first year! Our Save Chebacco Trails & Watershed team has worked hard to protect the 133 Essex Street property from development. As we have delved deeply into an analysis of the proposed development, it is clear the developer’s plan is long on assurances, short on data and full of risks to this valuable land and watershed area. We have participated in numerous meetings with the Hamilton Conservation Commission and the Planning Board as they have worked hard to determine if this undertaking represents the best interests of the town going forward. Our team has hired and consulted with professionals, including attorneys, engineers, hydrologists, and hydrogeologists to investigate the outcomes of 50 units crammed on to the 16 buildable acres of this 66 acre property. All agree that this is ecologically sensitive land, a critical water resource area and a valuable conservation area.
THE BURDEN OF PROOF HAS NOT BEEN MET
Facts / Findings / Potential Damages:
26+ weeks of blasting ledge and the removal of 1.5 million cubic feet of rock and material
Potential damage and contamination to a critical watershed serving three towns: Hamilton, Essex and Manchester. There is not sufficient information to ensure the protection of the wetlands
Requirement for a hydrogeological study that could assess the impact of the development on the aquifer and watershed
Construction noise for years as heavy equipment will intrude on a quiet, tranquil neighborhood
Possible contamination of abutting Meadowbrook Farm’s irrigation pond that determines the quality of food that we buy
The decimation of trees, existing wildlife and critical habitat for endangered plants and birds
The proposed development does not fit the intent of the cluster zoning for a Senior Housing Development
The volunteers on the Hamilton Town boards have spent countless hours to gain information and resolution to this project. To date there is no resolve. The Open Space Committee has designated this land at the top of their list for protection, and the Planning Board has the right and ability to turn down the proposed development.
Judge for yourself. Time is of the essence. Your financial support will help us to continue in this effort to save this land, aquifer, and natural habitat for generations to come! We are spending approximately $20,000 every month to further understand and in so doing, oppose this project. We feel this is the least we can do. This is a daunting undertaking but one we feel inspired to meet head on. It is paramount. Please speak out. Let the town know you care. Write letters to the Planning Board and Conservation Commission. Attend meetings. Advocate to save this land.
Please help us continue our necessary work to save this land! Send your tax deductible donation to: Save Chebacco Trails & Watershed, Inc., PO Box 2184, South Hamilton, MA 01982. The need for your involvement and support is now. Developed land is irreversible. When it is gone, it is gone forever! Please act now!