There certainly isn't a lack of ideas about what should be done with the Fernald Developmental Center land once the state declares it surplus.
Preserving it as open space, or using part of the property for recreational facilities, affordable housing and even a hospital were just a few of the possibilities mentioned by those who attended a meeting last night of a committee that was formed to come with a reuse plan for the 196-acre parcel.
All agreed though that whatever the land is used for, it will be vital to the city's future.
"What happens at the Fernald property will impact this city for years and years to come," said City Council President Thomas Curtin, who serves as vice chairman of the Fernald Reuse Committee.
The 16-member committee, which includes both state and local officials, met for the first time in years last night at the city's Government Center.
City resident Bill Fowler told the committee he hoped the state didn't look at Fernald as a "cash cow" to bring in revenue in tough economic times.
Heather Harris, vice president of the board of directors for Waltham Fields Community Farms, asked that a portion of the Fernald property be considered for farmland to provide food for residents, especially those with low income.
Local resident Jim Foley had another thought in mind for the property.
"We desperately need a hospital, in no uncertain terms," Foley told the committee.
Roslynn Rubin, chief executive of the Greater Waltham Arc, said her agency could use a section of the land to expand its services for the developmentally disabled.
Dana Harrell, real estate services director for the state Division of Capital Asset Management, said the land would not be declared surplus until Fernald is closed. The state has said the doors will be shut at Fernald by July 2010.
Mayor Jeannette McCarthy, chairwoman of the committee, said its members are trying to come up with a reuse plan now so the city is not "behind the 8-ball" when the land officially becomes surplus.
City Planning Director Ron Vokey, who is also a member of the committee, asked if the state would fund the environmental cleanup of the site.
Harrell said that issue would be addressed as the reuse planning for the property progresses.
McCarthy said that the next step for the committee should be a tour of the property. Curtin suggested Gov. Patrick be invited.
A consensus was also reached that the committee should meet monthly. The next meeting date was tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, May 12.
Richard Conn can be contacted at 781-398-8004 or rconn@cnc.com.
