Greg Reibman, President of the Charles River Chamber of Commerce, wrote in his July 11 newsletter that I “scolded” Newton residents who wrote to the City Council about last Wednesday’s Zoning & Planning Committee discussion about strategies to recruit new commercial office tenants. His statement is false. I would never scold residents who write to the City Council. I welcome public feedback and comments, and I consistently engage with Newton residents and business owners on the phone, through emails, and at community events.
My comments were directed at Mr. Reibman and his unfortunate choice, which in my opinion created more divisiveness and controversy in Newton when it’s not warranted. Councilor Baker, who chairs the Zoning & Planning Committee, had previously told Mr. Reibman that public comments were not going to be taken at Wednesday’s meeting, and encouraged him to share his comments in writing to the committee. Instead, Mr. Reibman attacked Councilor Baker’s integrity via email and accused the Council of engaging in a charade. (Note: Public hearings are when the City Council hears public comment, not City Council committee meetings.)
The reason why I requested a discussion with the city’s Economic Development Director is because Newton has fallen behind our neighboring communities when it comes to attracting new businesses and commercial tax revenue. The meeting on Wednesday was the initial conversation with City staff about the current status of Newton’s commercial office buildings. There will be additional meetings, and perhaps a future public hearing. Newton residents and business owners are always welcome to contact Councilors and City staff on any issue that is of interest to them.
But in the meantime, we need to work together and stop the divisiveness that has plagued Newton. We all love this city, and we all want Newton to succeed.
Tarik Lucas
Newton City Councilor At-Large, Ward 2
Newtonville
