'... They are Willing to Horse Trade for Some Zoning Relief'

Weekly Question: How Do You Feel about Temporary Signs in Town?

- "Personally, as a "sign holder" it's vital to be able to have them. There are town guidelines already that determine how near the street a permanent sign can be and although we do have our name on one, along with several other businesses in our building, it's impossible to see (and read) while driving. We've been in the same location now for almost 15 years and before we started using the sandwich board sign were told almost weekly by people that they "never knew we were in town". Obviously it's important for the health of businesses, more so local businesses, to be a known presence." - Robin EL-Hachem

What's Going on at the Lee's Farm Property?

- "The farm stand would make an excellent pot, err medical marijuana, dispensary. Convenient to the old folks home and with great route 20 access." - Wayland Transparent

Two New Wayland Police Officers Sworn In

- "It is always nice to see that the Town Of Wayland Hires Veterans. These two Gentlemen have served our country and one [of] them still is in the Airforce reserves. I wish them both good luck with the Wayland Police Department." - Richard P Turner

Developers Present Revised Finnerty's Site Plan; Residents React
Editor's Note: Articles on this topic generated dozens of comments this week. I have selected two comments from the discussion to include in this roundup, but it should be noted that there is an active debate taking place. I simply couldn't republish all the comments here. For a full recap, see the comment threads under individual articles.

- "Why exactly is "CVS a ... 100% certainty"? It sounds like the town absolutely has the ability to say no to a CVS, even if it is dicey, as you say. There is another big chain pharmacy 1/4 mile away. There is even another CVS less than 3 miles away (if residents feel strong brand preference for some reason). So why on earth should Wayland lay down and let yet another corporation steamroll the town with their needless blights - especially when the town is so resoundingly against it? I've yet to hear one sound reason as to why a CVS specifically is positive for this town." - Eric

- "So your question regarding why the Town can’t just say no to CVS if they feel it’s just not something they feel is appropriate. It is not lawful for a Town to just say we don’t like your tenant therefore we are not going to approve it, provided it’s a permitted use and it meets zoning. With all this debate, nothing will ever change the fact “drug store” is a permitted use in this district and we don’t get to say “drug store – provided we like it”. I know some people find this counterintuitive but the proponents are just saying they are willing to horse trade for some zoning relief – what’s on the table is “Back Building” (which most people want), no drive through, and a bunch of other small concessions for a curb-cut and parking relief. You sound reasonable – what do you suggest the Town does. I like your other comment about this project with respect to a differant question as well :)" - Bill