This summer was amazing but fall is coming and there is work to be done. Winchester's Planning Board and Board of Selectman have fast forwarded their work on the Town Master Plan with a focus on Downtown Economic Development, including parking modifications, housing, and zoning changes. Most of us might be inclined to roll our eyes over such long term planning , but it is imperative that all building owners, business owners, downtown employees, and especially customers speak up now or forever hold your peace. The Chamber of Commerce is eager to hear from folks with ideas and observations. The future of Winchester Center is in our hands today.
How about being pro-active and creating a wish list for services and shops not represented in our town rather than reacting to decisions often made in isolation by building owners who choose tenants for vacant spaces. For example, the center has six nail shops all with different landlords. Surely we can encourage other types of businesses to locate here. While the media is focused on state and national politics in which we as individuals make little difference, here we have an opportunity to influence major decisions regarding the design and development of a more vibrant Winchester Center for future generations. This is democracy at its best. There will be many hearings and meetings where your input will be heard, starting with Thursday, September 13th at 7pm with the Planning Board at the Town Hall Auditorium regarding possible designs and development of the
Waterfield Lot by the train station. Chamber members will be actively involved in this planning process, so please email or drop off notes with your suggestions or comments to the Chamber office or Book Ends