Is it too much to ask our elected leaders to correct the misinformation circulating about the two Overlay proposals? Certainly, they are aware of it, have the facts, and should responsibly inform the public that rezoning the Center itself will not have significant financial benefits.
The purpose of rezoning Belmont Center was to increase commercial taxes and prevent overrides, giving homeowners tax relief. An anticipated profit with a hotel in the Center Overlay disappeared when the hotel was removed, resulting in a possible financial gain of less than 1% of our annual budget, with a full Center buildout (two floors of commercial with 500 apartments).
The allowance of a hotel on Concord Avenue is now in a different Overlay, requiring a separate vote. It’s not necessary to destroy the Center shops and character for massive development for minimal financial benefit.
The Center Overlay isn’t the only option:
1) Current zoning allows for buildings similar to Tatte (Waverley). The former CVS and Bank of America buildings can be redeveloped now.
2) There are parcels in Belmont Center that were rezoned by Town Meeting under 3A.
3) Planning Board (PB) approved a better-scaled rezoning plan in June 2025 for Local Business districts 2 and 3, and the General Business district.
Proposed by PB Vice Chair, Carol Berberian, for fall Town Meeting 2025, it would’ve allowed for more commercial space and apartments, like the Tatte building. Our current Select Board rejected it in favor of more dense development, up to five stories of stores and 500 apartments.
The choice is yours, except it’s not. Town Meeting Members will decide. Contact your representative and ask them to vote to preserve Belmont’s character while adding needed improvements with a more responsible plan, and bring our community together by honoring what the residents want.
Susanne Croy, Stults Road