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Charles McKenzie submitting comments re: #202853, Union Sq zoning.
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To the Honorable Board:
For over 60 years Somerville has been and continues to be a part of my life. I was born and raised in Somerville and most of my family and friends are still residents of Somerville.
Since 1990 as a commercial property manager and owner my business interests lie in Somerville. I have been a member of the Somerville City Club since 1973. I have seen a lot of change over the decades.
It's clear to me that Union Square seeks to gain a lot from the development project. Currently the area of Union Square (known as the D parcels) encompasses 450 jobs, $.SM in property tax, zero train riders, .2 acres of open space and zero affordable housing units.
The developer signed on to this project is committed to transforming the area which will generate over 5,000 jobs for Union Square, a lOM annual tax revenue increase, provide MBTA access for 9,000 riders a day, create 2.3 plus acres of public open space, increase public safety with new infrastructure and bike lanes and build more housing, including 150 affordable housing units. It's clear to me that the positive improvements for Union Square ahead vastly outweigh any negatives.
The Board of Aldermen must vote to amend zoning before we see any improvement to Union Square. Our business is eager to see a significant increase in the number of people who spend time in Union Square. Please vote to approve zoning.
Charles McKenzie, CFO
Hamlen and Company, Inc.