Sharing my notes from the Sewataro Committee LLSAC meeting on 7-30-2026, by Laura Briggs
The session began with an update regarding the Sudbury resident survey — 200 responses have been received so far! Keep ’em coming (unless you live outside of Sudbury).
In addition, several emails have been sent to both the Select Board and LLSAC — thank you, and please continue emailing your feedback!
Looking forward, there are only 7 or so LLSAC meetings through the end of October, when the LLSAC will provide their recommendations for the Sewataro property to the Select Board.
Karyn Jones, Vice Chair, Commission on Disability
Karyn provided glowing feedback regarding the partnership with the Camp Operator. She was complimentary of the Camp that has invested $143,000 in accessibility enhancements (pavilion ramp, beach chairs, etc.) over the past 3 years.
She shared that the diversity of experiences is what makes Sewataro unique, and recommended conserving the land to expand recreational opportunities that are inclusive for all.
Some of her suggestions:
- She loves the north area of the camp (as it is largely flat) and would like to see an indoor facility with accessible bathrooms that could increase Camp enrollment capacity and provide year-round resident recreational opportunities for all to enjoy.
- Surrounding the facility would be an ADA trail that would snake through the woods between 0.5 to 2 miles in length, leading to another site — possibly one of the covered pavilions by the tennis or basketball courts.
- Accessible bikes, cross-country skiing, a cycling event, and a high ropes course for the northern wooded area.
Lori Capone, Conservation Department
Lori shared her overall assessment of the water quality as very clean (just one issue last Summer given the drought, but the Camp addressed it).
Lori described the importance of protecting the headwaters of Pantry Creek, as the swimming and fishing ponds discharge to Pantry Creek. She also shared the need to regulate the stream flow to downstream Conservation and Agricultural lands.
There is no issue with wildlife (geese waste) — Lori noted she has never seen geese on the property. She recommended dog waste must be vigilantly managed near the ponds.
Kay Bell inquired if mosquito and tick spray was contaminating the swim water. Lori confirmed that the chemicals used to spray degrade, which allows water to safely be released. There was some discussion regarding a concrete swale between the swim and fishing ponds, as concrete is not considered ideal.
Lori noted her department did not complete an assessment of the pine and oak trees, however no diseases were apparent. Kristen Drummey confirmed that the Camp completes an annual assessment of the trees and removes any damaged trees (lightning strikes, etc.).
The soil is considered high quality in the northern and western areas of the property.
Protocol, survey feedback, and next meeting
Radha outlined the process going forward, as the LLSAC decided to review some of the survey feedback and address compilation of the data collected.
A big question that came up was around a long-term “lease” — the Camp is not leasing the property, rather functions under an Operating Agreement. James will contact Town Legal to determine if a 30 or 40-year agreement term can be extended to the Camp, in addition to tax payment questions. Review agreements that are greater than 5 years in other MA towns.
LLSAC is unaware that the cost of maintenance of the property is in the current camp agreement.
Granger brought up the question of structure. The LLSAC believes the Town should be the manager for both Camp and Parks & Rec. I will insert my strong opinion that the Town should NOT be a manager to both — that would be a disservice to the residents, as P&R has historically been “Anti-Sewataro.” Kristen Drummey should serve as the Director, given she has been a wonderful liaison between the Town and the Camp.
There was discussion regarding leaving the undeveloped acreage “as is,” increasing visibility during non-camp months, and educating Sudbury residents about the priority enrollment that currently exists.
Kay Bell brought up a question regarding the value of another RFP, yet admitted she is not a negotiator. This highlights an underlying concern — some members of the LLSAC clearly are not experts at building relationships with vendor partners, and are risking alienating the Town’s partnership with Scott Brody.
Camp Sewataro is a success, and has been a success for decades. Let’s not destroy this vital partnership that is generating tremendous value to the town and vital childcare to the residents.
Please, don’t destroy it.
Email your feedback to llsac@sudbury.ma.us and selectboard@sudbury.ma.us. Take the town’s community survey before it closes on September 7.
Watch the recording
Recording provided by SudburyTV
