“It Ain’t Over ‘til It’s Over”
We stopped the proposed 40B clustered housing development at 133 Essex St. until well into next year. But, Chebacco Hill Capital Partners ( CHCP) continues to keep its purchase rights to the site “Under Agreement.” Therefore, there is a strong possibility that CHCP will strike again with another cluster housing project, 40B housing or a sub-division. The only sure thing for now is that “it ain’t over.” We remain focused and must stay ready!
During the multiple years plus long Planning Board meetings, which we attended every one and testified at most, CHCP consistently threatened a 50+ unit sub-division plan as an even more site-destructive to the cluster housing. Even if CHCP folds their tent, we have to assume that the Rich family property owner strongly favors development but may well entertain any party that meets their price. We need to be prepared for both.
To be clear, all this posturing by the landowner and developer does not appear conducive to a land trust/open space purchase option at this time. Yet major parties here are well aware that such an option is cued up and ready to go. If this land is to be ultimately protected, we must all work together to continue to show how development runs afowl of local regulations and how it is far removed from the best interests of Hamilton, it’s water supply, its’ residents, and the local community and environmernt at large. Help us to build on our success thus far by staying active, talking to friends and neighbors, and support our ongoing efforts to save 133 Essex.
We need your continuing support at SCT&W. We are an ongoing focused business operation that has continuing monthly expenses like any other business. We need to be ready for the likely cost of attorneys and experts when the next proposal goes before the town. Together we are stronger, and more capable, effective and nimble. Please help with a contribution, small or large, to keep us in the game.
