Sharing my notes from the LLSAC Sewataro Committee Meeting on Thursday August 13, 2026, by Laura Briggs
Public input and survey
- Over 120 emails have been received from residents and stakeholders.
- The community survey continues to perform strongly, with 425 responses submitted.
Clarifications and community concerns
Radha Gargeya addressed false information circulating on social media regarding past campaign statements and LLSAC committee work.
Laura Briggs stated that the Friends of Sewataro (FOS) has not shared false information regarding written or formal proposals for affordable housing — concerns arose from SHT/SHA discussions, not FOS.
FOS reaffirmed its mission to preserve the land and camp, sharing community feedback including a message from a single mother who relies on the camp for childcare.
Long-term agreement questions
The committee awaits guidance from Town Counsel on whether a long-term lease (beyond 5 years) is legally feasible. There are approximately 14 questions to be addressed by Town Counsel to the LLSAC.
Members asked whether the current 5-year extension could be renewed with negotiated changes. My personal note: Sudbury should explore the Town of Sharon’s extension of Scott Brody’s agreement by 10 years to 2041.
Property use and development discussion
General municipal use was repeatedly used as justification for changing the use of portions of the property. No other municipal needs such as a school or fire station have been identified for the property.
A major portion of the meeting focused on whether any part of the northwestern parcels should remain open for potential development. Kay and Deb emphasized:
- Utilities already exist at several northern lots. Selling lots could help pay down the remaining bond, as the Greystone lots are likely worth $750K each.
- Market-rate senior housing could meet needs identified in the Housing Production Plan.
- There was debate whether the northern Greystone area or the Haynes Road lots would be the better buildable lots for housing.
Arguments against market-rate development
Granger, Jen, and Radha emphasized:
- Conservation concerns and preserving heavy tree cover
- Market-rate housing is not a municipal use and may not benefit the town
- Affordable housing or camp-related facilities would be more appropriate
Camp expansion considerations
Discussion included whether the camp might someday need a gym/lodge for storm safety or expanded programming. Members debated whether selling land now would limit future camp options.
Environmental notes
Natural resource concerns were raised regarding water supply protection. Construction in certain areas may not protect water flow to conservation land.
LLSAC report structure
Selling the entire 44-acre property has been eliminated from consideration — the Sewataro property is valued as a Town asset.
Granger suggested there should be some sort of “Camp+” going forward.
Timeline
- Town staff presented a draft table of contents for the final report
- The LLSAC will continue refining options at the August 27 meeting (remote)
- Draft findings should be ready by late September
- A public forum will be held between September 24 and October 15
- Final report expected by October 29
Email your feedback to llsac@sudbury.ma.us and selectboard@sudbury.ma.us. Take the town survey before it closes September 7.
Watch the recording
Recording provided by SudburyTV
