Needham Paves Way for Senior Center District

Land near Rte. 128 on Highland Ave. may offer seniors in Needham a way to "age in place" while remaining an active member of the community, say Town officials.

The land in question was rezoned during Special Town Meeting and paves the way for a campus-like setting to be established. Plans for the property presently call for 44 apartments for independent living and 64 units designated for assisted living, as well as space for a nursing home setting. The units will serve as an expansion to the current Wingate at Needham senior living facility.

Between 20 and 24 of the units would be designated for patients afflicted with memory loss or Alzheimer's. All residents of the district would have to be 55 years of age and older.

"This district reflects sounds zoning in town," said Ronald Ruth, vice chairman of the Planning Board, "and would allow residents to age in place."

Ruth acknowledged that special permits, like the one asked for in this situation, are a common occurrence and a "key function" of the Planning Board. He noted, though, that such a permit would only be authorized after a notice to property abutters was sent out and a public forum held.

Ruth stated that a total of five meetings have already been conducted with abutters, including three facilitated by Wingate. The meetings look at issues such as traffic, sewer use, aesthetic impact and impact on neighbors.

"The Planning Board's view is that this (district) would greatly benefit Needham," Ruth said. "It would generate significant tax revenue and it would not generate significant traffic."

The district is estimated to raise property values by as much as $10 million, but all plans for the property are subject to a special permit hearing process.

Selectman Moe Handel, speaking on behalf of his fellow board members, supported the project.

"This is in the best interest of the town and we believe the tax revenue will not be compromised," he said.

Alan Fanger, a Town Meeting member in Precinct A, told officials that he would rather have discussion on the district postponed until further studies have been done on the financial impact, calling for a motion to delay talks.

"When we're dealing with a property this size, it makes me uncomfortable. If we can't have confirmation that the Department of Revenue has blessed this, I feel uncomfortable supporting it," Fanger stated.

After a question by Adalaide Young of Precinct C on whether or not the land could be used for a senior center, Ruth stated that the property would be private and that the "zoning has not been written with that use in mind."

When put to a vote, Town Meeting members rejected Fanger's motion and overwhelmingly passed Article 2, pertaining to a zoning map change. Article 1, requiring a 2/3 majority, was a bit closer. After an audible vote could note determine a clear answer, a hand count revealed 172 in favor and 19 against.