To the Editor:
Re: Warrant Article 23 – Proposed Funding to Identify 12 Acres of Parcel B for Development
I write to express deep concern regarding Warrant Article 23, which seeks an allocation of $50,000 from free cash to hire consultants, engineers, and attorneys to identify twelve acres of Parcel B for future development. Although the article references “restricting development on the remainder of the parcel,” this land is already protected under an Agricultural Preservation Restriction. This added language does not change the article’s core purpose: to pursue future development on one-third of irreplaceable open space.
Medfield residents have consistently affirmed that we value and wish to preserve our natural lands. Parcel B, its fields, forests, wetlands, sledding hill, Bay Circuit Trail, and wildlife habitat is not an abstract asset. It is a living part of our community’s identity, health, and wellbeing.
A One-of-a-Kind Landscape at Risk
Parcel B has been described by Select Board as: “unused land for disposal and development,” but this characterization ignores its unique environmental and recreational value. Research shows that access to natural areas reduces stress, improves cardiovascular health, and supports mental wellbeing, benefits especially important for youth and seniors.
A 12acre development footprint is substantial. To visualize its scale, imagine Metacomet Park, (soccer field, baseball field, lacrosse practice area, playground, tennis courts, snack bar, parking lot) then add three more acres. That is what would be lost.
Granting Broad Authority Without Clear Purpose
If Article 23 passes, the Select Board would gain broad authority to work privately with consultants to shape a plan that may include selling the land for private development, such as a 40B project, sports complex and anything imaginable. At a time when Medfield faces major capital needs and financial pressures, spending $50,000 to explore development of protected open space is neither prudent nor aligned with community priorities. Taxpayers shouldn’t fund a study to confirm what we already know: this land serves the community best as it is.
Preserving open space is an active investment in Medfield’s longterm ecological, social, and economic health. Natural lands protect biodiversity, improve water and air quality, support pollinators, mitigate flooding, store carbon, provide recreation, education and attracts ecotourism.
A Better Path Forward
Parcel B offers extraordinary opportunities for low-impact recreation, education, and community programming activities that strengthen Medfield’s identity and can even generate revenue without sacrificing the land. Examples include archery, bird watching, crosscountry running/skiing, disc golf, hiking, dog walking, meditation, nature journaling, stargazing, trail biking, wilderness training, and more. These possibilities are inclusive, abundant, and sustainable.
I respectfully urge the Select Board to withdraw Article 23 and commit to a communitydesired path that reflects Medfield’s longstanding values. Parcel B should remain whole, preserved for current and future generations, protected for its ecological significance, and available for the countless low-impact activities that enrich our community.
Medfield has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to open space. It is time for our leadership to do the same.
Respectfully,
Jeff Hyman
Medfield
