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[Page Buldini]: Thank you so much. Well, it's so nice to see this again. And I actually looked back on my notes earlier today from when you propose this before. Thank you for adding a little bit of onto the facade in the windows. I actually parked next to the former auto body last night to go to an event at the Great American Beer Hall. So I'm quite excited that you are, you guys, what you're doing to this little area, because I think it's going to start, we have Arts Collaborative, we have Great American Beer Hall. So I think you're starting a really good movement, and especially where it's going to help bring that curb appeal. So I really appreciate that. And then with the elevator, with you adding that, did that change any Anything you had previously on that floor plan, or was that vision? Are you replacing it with anything?
[Page Buldini]: Okay. Perfect. I love that. That's potentially more opportunity for, um, which we are rug, which I think is great. So thank you.
[Page Buldini]: So sorry, that was unintentional. I was unable to unmute, but thank you. No worries.
[Page Buldini]: Great, thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you so much. I just want to say that I appreciate AB specifically. I think it will be really wonderful and easy for anybody coming into the city to want to do anything with our incentives if they can read the zoning very clearly. So thank you. I agree with Doug explaining the difference within the discussions with building heights and height will be really helpful. There has been confusion on that. Are there any of the incentives that we have changed or removed that we think are significant I unfortunately didn't get a chance to fully look through this. I looked through it about an hour before, but I mean, I can totally look back on my own, but anything that as a board that we should just acknowledge.
[Page Buldini]: Just real quick, because I know we had closed our public comment. Would this ever come back to our board for discussion?
[Page Buldini]: That is interesting about that. But I also think just really going back, that was really helpful to hear about site plan review and special permit. And I think the public is kind of craving just a really simple way to understand. And not to ask more of the planning office, but if there was any way just to have it in a very easily digestible form, I think we've learned obviously with RFP, with communication, we're all seeing where that is confusing. I don't know if that's possible and not to ask more, but I think that was helpful to me. So thank you.
[Page Buldini]: And Director Hunt I have to say listening to the committee of the whole meeting last week you explained that so clearly and I really appreciate you advocating for that because I know that's something that we had all advocated for so thank you because that was spot on and I really appreciated listening to that meeting you saying that so thank you. Well thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Present.
[Page Buldini]: Present.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you, big shoes to fill, thank you.
[Page Buldini]: I'm honored, thank you all.
[Page Buldini]: I second that motion. Thanks, Sean.
[Page Buldini]: Yes. Thank you so much. So in the past, who was on the committee for the decision making? By that, do you mean back in when we hired Ennis?
[Page Buldini]: Perfect. That makes sense to me. I just wasn't quite sure. So I just wanted to make sure about that. And then I don't know. I kind of I read through because I think this is really exciting and a great opportunity from everything we've learned that I've learned. But one thing that kind of, I love that there is the communication consultant and liaison, but I'd love there literally to be in this document where after we have those public meetings that we require and it might be a collaboration with that community communication consultant. that we actually share what the public said, because I feel like that was really something that we, we knew if we were at the meetings, and it was helpful, but I think for the public to see that we hear them, we see them. and then it can be somehow produced. And I'm not, we don't have to get crazy with like maps and stuff, but I feel like having that documented could be really helpful, sharing what the community wants, and then going forward, helping to create the plan, if that could be possible.
[Page Buldini]: Yes. That data would be really helpful. And just when we're really helping to see what the neighbors want and the community wants, I think that could be just a, and it's also, it's showing the community. We hear you, which is our goal.
[Page Buldini]: And I like the idea of having that public meeting first so we can gather what the public wants instead of being like these are our massing maps. this is what we're thinking, oh, wait, what do you guys think? Because I feel like that's where I even was like, oh, wait, this already is kind of created. What can we do in a way that still supports housing, the green score, all of that, even though I can already physically see it. So I think having that public opportunity before to really gather, and not to say that PD office didn't do an excellent job, like even the Wellington study, I'll go back to that forever and ever and ever, that was incredible. And me and Kate got to put the blocks up to like actually design the buildings, like that was great. So I know it works and I know it's helpful, but then getting that information, getting the data, that we can then create planning and permitting, you know, the consultants and then us, I think is that was like the little piece before it's like, half way created, and then we're all like, oh, it's already up.
[Page Buldini]: Yes, that's, yes. Thank you for putting it into, you know, clear words. Because I just, I really, even seeing from what Doug shared, and it was so great, Doug, that you, it was able to see at the City Council meeting last night, but some of your drafts and drawings, and nothing against Emily and her team, but then I could actually see it in a way that would be architectural. And I know that it was meant for specific reasons, but I know back, and I think Ari, you might be able to speak to this because I know you were on the board then, when there was those real-life pictures of the houses, I was like, oh right, I actually can walk down my street and see what that looks like. That, it's so simple, but I just, it's also, and if I had a note here about accessibility and inclusion to make it for the visual, for the hearing, and I know the communication consultant will do that, but it just feels more inclusive to the whole. And I also appreciate that you all have put it out so much public participation, and if people don't participate, that's on them. So I'm owning that, and I know that as a business owner, and I know as a human, you can only give the opportunity, but I think knowing hey, this is what we really want, you know, Tufts Institutional Zoning or West Medford, whatever. Come here. Like, this is your opportunity. We've learned from the past.
[Page Buldini]: Yeah, no, I think, Director Hunt. Yep. That's what I've been kind of told as well. But my question would be with That would be for the debt exclusion, but would it come before the CD board? Would we be having meetings about it?
[Page Buldini]: I think that'd be super helpful, because I think what I realized as a person that feels quite passionate about the high school, I miss those meetings. And that was something that was really unfortunate. So if we know that ahead of time, that would be really helpful so that if we are active participants, we don't have to do what we did.
[Page Buldini]: Yes, thank you. I think that's awesome. And I think it would be really helpful, too, if there were any updates on some of the site plans that we've passed to see what's working there, what's not working there, CAPI's case 108 progress. And then also if we could get an update on the connector, because I know that was a big thing with the path and construction over there, because I feel like that's a really wonderful thing that's happening as well for transit. And I hope with the Wellington study and everything we are learning about that, that's just really good info that we have all together. So are we able to change the timeline or the schedule of what we're doing? Is that something that we could do?
[Page Buldini]: but it would be so much less work. It would be a fun field trip.
[Page Buldini]: Sure, thank you, Doug. I think what Sean said too, Dina, I think Ari, we're all kind of saying the same thing. I love the idea that we've talked about Boston Ave. The residents are engaged. For that matter, so tough does make sense. Um, if we could get that wish list. That'd be wonderful if we could have a walk about Rocco, that would also be wonderful. Um, and just thinking about what our goal is there and if if is, you know, available to help out with that as a consultant, I think that would be very good too. Um, so I think that would be where I would go.
[Page Buldini]: Sorry, I completely forgot. Daniela or Alicia, do you know if there are any, say, plan reviews or bigger projects that are kind of coming up that we should be mindful of? Not that you don't know if it's not out there yet, but just so we also are aware.
[Page Buldini]: Something that we could manage, though, if we do continue?
[Page Buldini]: He was, I met him at the library when they didn't have a SWAT that whole, that was really cool. He was saying that he was going to reach back out to you.
[Page Buldini]: Hamilton, it's Hamilton.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you, that was my next question, thank you.
[Page Buldini]: So I happened to be on, as I had shared with the board, to support Dena, which is very exciting. And I was also very excited because there were three common VIC license that I was supporting. Have you seen it? Have you seen it? Yeah. Yeah. Raza was in the Bobiti. So there's some great economic development in the city. So I was excited to be there. But I actually made a little statement only because I had to put my thoughts together because it was a long night. So if you wouldn't bear with me, if I could read it, if that's OK. These are thoughts of my own. And Kate's here with me too. I just want to be honest, I'm really disappointed and confused by what would happen last night. I trusted the process and the agreement we had reached together with the city council. At our June 24th joint meeting, the City Council, the CBB, us, voted to agree on the main aspects that would go into the final draft and would not be open for further debate. That included the table of uses specifically, which uses would be allowed by right and which would require a special permit. The two changes adopted last night were not recommendations or referrals from the board, and they were significant. I have made the motion to send this forward to City Council, so I take responsibility for opening the door. I believe, and I could be wrong, that Sean raised the possibility that other changes could be made, but I genuinely did not believe it would unfold this way. That was something I've learned now. I was also confused about why additional public comment was allowed last night when we had already closed our public hearing and completed our process. I just would love clarification on that. I agree the need for housing as well as the interest in making the corner on Boston Avenue productive and generating revenue for the city, but the late night reconsideration felt really unfortunate, familiar to what we had gone through in the past. And I thought we had moved past that. A lot of thoughtful work went into establishing guardrails for this new type of development, especially given the concerns of the surrounding neighbors. I'm disappointed about how this happened. And I think it makes it very clear that we need to have that strong new RFP going forward. So thank you for listening. Excellent. Well said.
[Page Buldini]: I'm happy to share what I wrote also, and please, whatever input to it's truly I do take responsibility, but it's also. For the board, however, you want to share, please do, but I'll happily share that to you, Doug, and then we can pass it out.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you so much and I appreciate the comments from the board because they echo a few of the sentiments I had. One thing I also appreciated by driving by two and looking at these plans now is seeing where driving and parking will be, having the garage, having a driveway, leads me to believe that cars will be off the street. So that is, I think, a good thing for the neighborhood. And the thought to, yes, we would like to chat more about the tree and how we can continue that. And I would just be interested if that lot, I know it was a personal property, but if it was a lot that was used within the neighborhood, if there was just hopes to continue that, because I feel like this is a great neighborhood. I love that neighbors want to stay. As somebody who does use child care within our family. It's lovely when they're nearby. So I just appreciate that that hopefully will keep the neighborhood and also keep people staying in Medford with housing. So thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Just real quick and I think it would be helpful for clarity. Attorney Desmond, can we just explain for the neighbor what condoizing means?
[Page Buldini]: Thank you, Attorney Desmond. And just to clarify visually, where I live in the hillside, we own a two-family. And it's, we are a condo, which is our first floor in our basement. And then my brother-in-law is a condo on the second and third floor. So I think it's just to clarify sometimes and not to say that that's what the Diagostinos plan is. But I just know visually sometimes condos could be the thought of just a one unit. And again, not to speculate, but I know that sometimes condoizing the term can be confusing. So I just wanted to visually share that.
[Page Buldini]: Okay.
[Page Buldini]: I second it.
[Page Buldini]: Yes.
[Page Buldini]: Just really, really quick, a resident saw this when this was public. If you look at the BA2A, it says 57 stories, not five.
[Page Buldini]: That's our job is to share the information. So thank you. Absolutely.
[Page Buldini]: Sam, as my colleagues, I'm just interested, and I appreciate Emily sharing those images, but looking actually at the rendering of Waukling Court, which I know is just a rendering and just seeing the difference on North Street, I'm interested. I know we are not trying to make big change, but I think having clarity and just seeing a different number would be just helpful to discuss what that looks like.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you, Danielle. Yes, that would be helpful if we could see exactly what we're talking about. And also, if it comes to seeing what this 60, well, essentially just what it looks like and not to be making big changes. But if this is an opportunity to, as we've always wanted to do, give a clean version when we agree, I think that that is completely fair. So thank you, Danielle.
[Page Buldini]: Probably short notice, but is there any way we could see what it would look like with the 60 feet? Or is that an option? I know modeling Emily on the spot is not appropriate to ask.
[Page Buldini]: Yeah, even what the change was originally, you know, what we're all discussing now that we didn't initially see.
[Page Buldini]: Can I just ask where that came from? And if that was gathered, the change for the 60 foot setback, because I think that would be helpful if that was something that was in the meeting, why that was an option. And I'm not trying to make this difficult, and I'm not trying to say that the CD board is, yes, direct on.
[Page Buldini]: : page are going page first go ahead, thank you, so what, what do we do here, I mean did make a vote, I think. Harmon Zuckerman, PB – He, Him, His.: : we're not here we're here discussing which I think is really good and important um. Harmon Zuckerman, PB – He, Him, His.: : I don't do we have a general consensus, because.
[Page Buldini]: I make that motion.
[Page Buldini]: I just think with this being something that's new and it can be exciting and awesome, I like that for BA3 having the option to come in front of us. And so we figure this all out. I think the special department, I think the city board having the opportunity to talk about it is really valuable. I think it would be important.
[Page Buldini]: Ari, thank you so much. I was just going to say they had a really, really good point. And I agree. And I appreciate keeping that opportunity for the city board for BA3.
[Page Buldini]: Purpose I agree to thank you only for saying.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you. Yes, actually Ari had put it in the chat as I raised my hand too. So Ari, I can give you a sec. I do appreciate that, Sean. And I think it's really important that the city board is being mindful of Tufts, but I do know it was also for non-Tufts students and faculty too. So I think that it could go both ways. But I do want that to be really clear that we are trying to find valves as well to get students out of the neighborhoods. So maybe that percentage is higher. And Ari, if you want to speak to this too, I think the comment that you made is really great. But I think we need to be really mindful that Tufts University is what we're trying to drive over here to.
[Page Buldini]: I just want to make sure Ari is commenting, so I just want to make sure that we're seeing their comments, please.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you, Sean. Can we clarify that? Can we have them, can we get that, I don't know, that clarification and then vote? How does that work?
[Page Buldini]: Yes.
[Page Buldini]: Present.
[Page Buldini]: Just a really quick comment, and I know we're going to talk about procedures after but I'm just die freeze. I just really appreciate the thought and especially when it comes to policy, because I think the whole point of this zoning is to make sure that. developers or building owners come in and actually take advantage of it. So I really appreciate everybody focusing on this. Excel is not my forte. And I know, Dina, I know you're especially great at this, too. I'm sure many other board members are, but I just really love the thought of deeper affordability, but also something that is applicable and that hopefully will be taken advantage of. So I just wanted to share that. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: I agree. That's why I had raised my hand too. I just thought that was kind of vague as well. So great call. Sorry, I spoke when you had your hands up.
[Page Buldini]: No, you said it great. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Sure. Thank you. So I agree with Dina. And I think also, I think just for me to get a better sense, are we working with a consultant going forward? Has that been decided and secured for the future?
[Page Buldini]: And then can I ask to when it comes to like the schedule of next projects. Is that legally set like Tufts is legally the next one not to like mess up this order. I'm just interested because I do know there are the comprehensive plans and the studies that have come back. for Wellington. That could be helpful data. I don't know or not. But I know the Boston Ave one that Tufts is doing won't be back, I think, until the end of the year. So not to say that we need to wait for that. I don't know if that would be helpful information.
[Page Buldini]: Would it be helpful? I don't know.
[Page Buldini]: Maybe like I could look into it more. I honestly don't know.
[Page Buldini]: She is. Yep. Yes. So we could check in. And then is there any way we could with the Tufts, and this is just a pipe dream, to get more of, I know the master plan is not, but that wishlist that kind of had been floated just to help us if we are talking about Tufts, about if they had any future ideas. I know in conversation there was a potential of a wishlist when we were talking about the pool.
[Page Buldini]: So not to make this difficult, but just, I don't know if that's helpful information.
[Page Buldini]: Not to bring up Wellington, I promise I want to stay on the schedule, but I do really appreciate, I'm blanking on the consultants that came and talked to us, but myself and my daughter got to see essentially the charrette of Wellington twice, one at the senior center by the PD office, And then one in the city chambers and that was really helpful to be able to really envision what I wanted, and I know it's Wellington but just think of any square what it was, but um, that was really really helpful to say like a walking path or traffic or building height, and it was a physical game it was like a monopoly game, Doug it looks similar to like what you have. But um that I think that public engagement and I know it takes time and that's a consultant and I'm not trying to add more work, but I think to speak to what everybody is saying that was really helpful and it was engaging so yeah okay.
[Page Buldini]: So cool here.
[Page Buldini]: I think it's really awesome. And we're all kind of saying the same thing. So this is great for our board. Thank you, Sean, Dina, and Ari, and John and Doug. Danielle and Alicia, is it something that the CD board can help do not to change your processes, but our procedures, but that we do look at how you receive your information and I don't know, I don't, not to tell you guys what you're doing or how to do it, but it sounds like if there is something that we do say, we will not look at it a week, we need a week, or is that something that we could do as a city board to help support your office as well?
[Page Buldini]: Yes.
[Page Buldini]: And real quick to kind of speak to I think what everybody's saying, um, section D, that little line I think is a really good safeguard. Any fractional payment made pursuant to, this ordinance shall not be counted toward achieving any development incentive bonus. I think that speaks to exactly what happened with actually on Salem Street and trying to get affordable units. And if you do your affordable unit, it's a better technical incentive, not an added incentive. So I thought that line was really helpful for me to get what it meant. So just to share that.
[Page Buldini]: Well, thank you. I think, Danielle, you kind of just nailed the notes that I quickly took. I just had a question how Sean, Doug, Danielle, how you felt about those working groups. Because I think reading those notes, although it was probably way more work for you guys to have another meeting, was really helpful for some of the measured square zoning to actually see where people were thinking. So that was one question. But then my other question with process was seeing the planning and permitting being kind of like, and Danielle, you kind of explained this, like the start of this. If I wasn't watching those meetings, there were some things that I would never have known Um, is it possible that there, it would be more work. So I don't know if this is, or even legal, but to almost have like a CD board liaison on one of those meetings. So at least there is, and it wouldn't necessarily be, I don't know how the discussion looks. I don't know. I know that the city council meeting, but just knowing that there is representation from the CD board. To then share with us because I agree. I felt like the. feeling comfortable, the Tuesday, the last Tuesday, and I know it was like a marathon, so much was done as our CD board, that walking into that Wednesday meeting, I felt like I'd never feel prepared, but I just felt like we all had a general, we weren't gonna agree on everything, but we had a general consensus, or we knew where we all were kinda gonna land, and that felt really comfortable. when I watched because I had missed the meeting the night the week before when I saw and I know it wasn't no ill intentions but seeing members being called to recognize questions they had about like gas stations and then having to prove why that was a feeling I feel like that made not for comfortable conversation. And I wouldn't feel comfortable being up there by myself, just trying to describe something that I had a question about, because I'm not the expert. That's what we're asking the experts. So just knowing that process, I feel like is really important. And I do get why scheduling all of the meetings got a little tricky. So there has to also be a way that we look at the city calendar if we can. And I know it's impossible. because there's so much going on. And I know, Danielle, you do yours a year in advance. So yes, thank you for bringing up the process, because that was obviously weighing on myself. But I do think that the CD board, that Tuesday meeting was really inspiring. So walking into that, thank you all, made me feel more comfortable and confident to speak, even though, again, we might not have agreed.
[Page Buldini]: No, our great great point. 1 is the Boston at quarter study that Tufts is doing should be done by the end of the year. So that's helpful information. Right. Yeah, that's something that I think is very helpful for that. And then when it comes to West Medford, is West Medford going to be like Boston Ave, where we have West Medford around the commuter rail? But then we also have the business district that's where Joe Pizza is and the Rotary. Is that, in theory, two districts, or is that all one?
[Page Buldini]: I envision that also being similar. Different, though, because it's going to be way, West Medford is so dense right where it is. But that is two totally different neighborhoods. So I think that will take time as well.
[Page Buldini]: No.
[Page Buldini]: Second.
[Page Buldini]: Can I just ask a clarifying question? Two of those options have an incentivized zoning story?
[Page Buldini]: Okay.
[Page Buldini]: So I know last night we had a discussion, sorry to turn, about the affordable housing table. And I'm concerned if we're talking about options with incentivization, but we're still unclear with one of with one of those options. Is it wise to continue to discuss these if we're not clear if these options are even applicable? Is it okay if I ask Danielle that question? Or Director Hunt?
[Page Buldini]: So unsure of the process, even though we're not supposed to say that.
[Page Buldini]: So what are we doing? Am I?
[Page Buldini]: I would love to pick a path.
[Page Buldini]: Yes, please.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you, Jay Carr. So I will go with, I don't know if we want to put the options back on for the public?
[Page Buldini]: As a resident and business owner that is on this strip, I will go with option A, specifically because I look at that corner every day, and I love that corner. And it's really tricky to turn. If you're coming from Boston Ave to take a right up Winthrop, you're going up a hill. So I go with option A. Okay.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you. So I'm going to be annoying. I know we're not supposed to talk about other things, but as we are talking about height, will we have an opportunity to talk about setbacks? Because when I look at that, which I know these are just ideas, it's so close to Winchester Street. That's what makes me nervous with a setback. And on this table, the setback is zero to 20. Side and rear is zero. So are we going to talk about that another time or should I make my just height decision?
[Page Buldini]: Or just where they're oriented, which again, maybe is just to show us, but it's another tight street.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you. Only because my daughter does gymnastics there. So like obviously we're there every day. I walk that block every, well every Tuesday. We're taking a break for the summer. But those houses are right there too. So I know that depending upon the height we'd be mindful because this is a residential area. So different than on BA1. So we'd be mindful of the 45 degree angle. Okay.
[Page Buldini]: Okay. Thank you. So I will go with option C. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Quick question. Packet or in place? How high is that?
[Page Buldini]: Yep. Okay. And so the 98 would be?
[Page Buldini]: Got it. Okay. Thank you. So I'm going to go with option a specifically what you also mentioned, um, Councilor Callahan and I love incentivized. I'm hopeful we fix the affordable table. I know we will. Um, because I think that's an excellent option and not to be the person that keeps going on the lower floors because we do need housing. But this board I think is really trying our best to help with housing production and massing. So option a for me, please.
[Page Buldini]: I agree. And thank you, Doug, for explaining that, because you explained it before, and I appreciate that. So agreed.
[Page Buldini]: Go for it. Thank you. And I know we didn't talk about it and we're not going to talk about it and that's okay. But we did go through and Director Hunt described we removed, we recommended to remove dormitories, fraternities and sororities and separate them. And then we gave our comments about no to sororities and fraternities across the district. And then for CBD approval. So I think that's important that we had discussed that as well as we really thought hard about this.
[Page Buldini]: Sure. I would like to keep it open, please. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Is it out of turn to ask a clarifying question? Not at all. I know we've always kept the system that we have a clean copy before we close anything so we can make sure there's always public comment. Are we going back on that or is that?
[Page Buldini]: So then no. All right.
[Page Buldini]: I never said any of that. I seconded.
[Page Buldini]: Yes.
[Page Buldini]: No.
[Page Buldini]: Yes.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you so much. So I apologize for not being there last week, but I did watch it. So thank you for everyone attending. I just had a couple broader questions just to kind of get a sense of where the board stands. I do want to talk about the setbacks in the building heights proposed for VA1 for short or zero setbacks. The sidewalk minimums is another question I have for the new potential building and zoning. Um, Winchester Street be to that height for sure. Um, and then general questions are. I know I had actually seen director hunt. A couple of years ago at a. Broadway corridor meeting and about the split parcels. But I find it kind of interesting when we're talking about BA2 and the future of what the Broadway corridor split parcels would be and what that might look like. I know it's a proposal, well, it's a discussion that's been happening for many years, but it does potentially affect the way we think about BA2. And then when it comes to the purpose filled student housing with a Tufts institutional zoning coming in the future, also how the board feels about having privately owned dorms and or Tufts dorms as Tufts had recommended for BA1 but also on the Boston F corridor. So those are kind of broader questions but unfortunately I wasn't there for the in-person discussion when it probably would have been really appropriate but that's what I was worried about and thinking about so those would be mine.
[Page Buldini]: I also agree with that, if we need to take a vote.
[Page Buldini]: I agree, Ari. Thank you. You pretty much said exactly what I said. One question is, I know we had talked about, I'm just reading the footnote in B about the The TMA, so is that something that we figured out? Because I know when we talked about the development that's going on over by the KIS-108 building. Yep. Did we get clarification about what that would mean? Because I know we were uncertain before, but does that mean that that's an official incentive or not even an incentive necessity that they have that base membership? Is that doable or enforceable?
[Page Buldini]: Well, I guess, but I guess it kind of goes with what we're discussing street trees in the future and like that they could drop their their their participation later.
[Page Buldini]: Not to give you guys more work, but I feel like that's a really cool thing. And I think it's a good incentive. But it's also, I agree that it should be down to one. Obviously, incentivize to 0.8. But I feel like if the residents know that this is something that's important, I think accessibility, I think that's a good thing.
[Page Buldini]: Do we still check in with the building commissioner too? Doesn't the building commissioner need to weigh in on parking for site plan review?
[Page Buldini]: So generally it won't be though?
[Page Buldini]: Should dormitories be separate in fraternity and sorority?
[Page Buldini]: We make that number eight, nine, or even whatever.
[Page Buldini]: I'm struggling, honestly, too, when I read that letter and I just looked back at the meeting about specifically what their proposal was. So I do have trouble with that as well.
[Page Buldini]: So would it be OK to have a discussion about that? Is that OK or no?
[Page Buldini]: Yeah, go ahead, ask for clarification on those houses. Do we know because I know Danielle, I know you and I think even Alicia have a little bit of expertise on this, but the houses that are the quote unquote sorority or the frats, what are they considered by Tufts? Are they considered student housing? Are they considered private buildings? And I think that would be helpful too. Do we even know?
[Page Buldini]: No, that might not be the right term or condition that it I don't know if we can legally do that, that if it is a dormitory, if we do CDB approval or whatever, we decide that it cannot be a sorority or a dorm or whatever, this is themed housing. I don't even know if that would legally stand.
[Page Buldini]: So we're gonna separate dormitories from fraternities and sororities?
[Page Buldini]: Excellent, thank you.
[Page Buldini]: I agree. One per four?
[Page Buldini]: No, I support that. I also support the CDB only because at the end of my road on Winter Street, I was going to bring this up tomorrow, but we, the company that took over for where Moulton's was, is they're like a GC. They're very respectful. They're very reasonable. But to incentivize businesses to stick around and come, I think CDB would be great. So thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you, Doug, for answering my question. I was interested in how Packard Armed Police was. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: John, did you look out your window at all? Do you have a window in your office?
[Page Buldini]: It's the most beautiful sunset right now.
[Page Buldini]: You should go see it quick.
[Page Buldini]: Yeah, we just ran out quick. It's stunning.
[Page Buldini]: Right over the city. Yeah, did you get to see it, Ari? We ran outside quick. It's so beautiful.
[Page Buldini]: Are you guys talking about the sunset?
[Page Buldini]: I told Sean to get out of his office quick.
[Page Buldini]: Right.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you. I totally agree. I like the percentage idea, because I think part of the goal is also remember that we're trying to pull some of the students out of the neighborhoods. So I do support a percentage. But also, sorry, real quick, I do love showcasing Medford, so I think it's great to incentivize some other people coming in.
[Page Buldini]: I love that idea. And the building behind me actually is for faculty and staff housing. So I say, yeah, here we go.
[Page Buldini]: The family fell on a bit of hard times as well during that.
[Page Buldini]: Right, so not Hillside Hardware.
[Page Buldini]: Right.
[Page Buldini]: I have trouble with this. I do get it. I totally get it. And Doug, we've talked about it. I've measured my sidewalk. I love that Tasty has outdoor seating. My aunt and I and my daughter were out doing my planter in the front. And this is just personal because I was literally there and she got like, we almost got run over by a bike. And it's just, I just have, but I also get it because that lot is so freaking tight. And like, there's no way you can actually put anything of substance, which needs to go above where my salon is. It's just such a tight road. And it's, if we are, we want to make it accessible, I'm just, it's a conundrum. I guess it's like, what is, what is the vision? Right. And I don't know. I really struggle with that one.
[Page Buldini]: I didn't mean to kill the mood here.
[Page Buldini]: Yeah, she is on point. They are doing a great job. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Can I ask just one clarifying question? I know it has not gone to the Senate yet, and I don't think it really matters for incentivizing, but the dark sky bill that got passed through the state, I think will be exciting because it will help with lighting at night specifically. But I'm interested, does that change any of the language here? I mean, I know obviously it's not passed through
[Page Buldini]: I think that's really exciting, especially up on the hillside, if the hope is to build up that we can then also.
[Page Buldini]: So no comments. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: I'm like, come here. Well, it's also interesting on the hillside when I first moved up there and they were, oh my goodness, I'm blanking on the name of the what was it was. But when Park Medford came, every square got like a revitalization fund. And we talked about lighting up on the hillside. And all the lights are on the opposite side on Boston Ave. where I am, and it's because of lighting, specifically made. So it was just a fascinating thing to learn that.
[Page Buldini]: Do we talk about that tomorrow? Or do we know what the overhaul could look like?
[Page Buldini]: Super quick. I think this is a really important conversation because the comprehensive plan and what I think all of us want is affordability. So I think if we can have this conversation tomorrow for sure, but also Danielle and Natalie, thank you too for doing the research. I think the city councilors need to know all the thought and I mean, Emily Ennis too, because I think that's a huge goal for this, right?
[Page Buldini]: Okay, so Danielle, do you think tomorrow you could?
[Page Buldini]: Maybe a motion that we continue this?
[Page Buldini]: I make a motion to accept the minute the meeting minutes.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you. Oh, it's loud. Thank you, everyone, for being here, and good to see everybody again, a few nights in a row. So I'm excited to hear about Wackling Court. I think that's really important that we distinguish that. My question is, and I don't know if Chairman Carr, if you're able to pull up your pictures of Wackling Court. Can we just see the difference of what that zoning does look like compared to what we're proposing for the Elizabeth Grady section? Because I think that's important to see what's already gone through the boards and the community and what we're proposing now, please. Yes. Thank you. So I think this is exciting because the tallest buildings are up against the tracks. Obviously, we can see North Street. We can see how the units and the townhouses and is this considered a subdivision or just a neighborhood? What would we consider this development called with the different sizing of buildings?
[Page Buldini]: Yes, because I think this is a wonderful way to show how to use a big parcel. And with Elizabeth Grady abutting this on the other side of the tracks, this is a really good example of how it's granted that one building on the top is very close to North Street and not set back. which is, there's no step back or set back, I think, from this image. So I think that's a really good example of what we could be looking at on Boston Ave. So I'm hopeful that we can get creative when we're incentivizing who we want to see in these other parcels. But I do appreciate, Chairman Carr, what you suggested. I am in agreement. And even on the BA2 with the four-level, four-story condos and then the sphere, I think if there's another max height that's over there, those neighbors are going to be in shadows, potentially. So I do agree with that as well. It was interesting to hear about, and I know my colleague mentioned, the incentivizing of both underground parking. So I know that in other areas of the city, we want covered parking. So how do we work around that? And I don't know, obviously, you kind of spoke to that. But as an incentive, if we want covered parking, yet if it isn't feasible, and I know it's per site and per development, I just want to make sure that we have good, we have feasible incentives.
[Page Buldini]: I appreciate that, because I want to make sure, and I know you all have done so much work and everybody here, that the incentives, we want people to come, we want to develop, so I just want to make sure that they're feasible, and they are. A quick question about, just because I have personal experience where I own my skincare salon, which is on this strip. So, I'm part of the section of BA1, and Although I do appreciate the zero setbacks, front, back. And I do understand my strip is nine units. There's ledge behind us. It's a huge retaining wall with ledge. So how would we work around that? And granted, I mean, if it's developed, it's developed as it should with housing above. But I just want to make sure that we are really staying true to the comprehensive plan with green score. And I appreciate the permeable surfaces. But that is, it's a tiny lot, but it's a long lot. So how do we work with that?
[Page Buldini]: Perfect. Thank you so much. And I think using my the building where I'm at is a great example because it's such a tiny lot. But I think it just shows also there are other areas on this corridor that could use a setback and would be appropriate. So I do want to be really mindful of that. Yes, that little strip, totally, that makes sense, but I think we do really need to look at the other ones, because I think a setback is appropriate, and stepbacks too, because that was something that I learned in the square of how wonderful that is to still grab the units that we really want for housing, but not make people in shadows.
[Page Buldini]: So, thank you. And I have just one more, and I would love to pass the mic. We did get a lot of public comment, and I know a lot of us didn't get it this afternoon, which it's to no fault of anyone's. So, we all are looking at public comment and listening to public comment. But one that I did see that was actually fascinating was about data centers. And that's not something that we had talked about. And it's an interesting thing that is going on. So I didn't know if you had any experience with data centers or zoning around data centers. But I do think it was brought publicly. So I would just like to hear what you all have experienced with that.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you for looking at that, but I think it would be important that saying how large and huge and potentially you know energy water whatever is used that we don't.
[Page Buldini]: Not to be disrespectful of the process at all, may we just ask the planning office? I know that we have some dates, and I just want to be mindful of that, not to be disrespectful of the process. And honestly if, Emily, if you guys are able to compile the information that we asked.
[Page Buldini]: Present.
[Page Buldini]: Present.
[Page Buldini]: Present.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you so much. Sorry to not be there in person, and I appreciate everybody who is there. I have a couple of questions. I very much appreciate what Chair Carr said, because I think it is very important that we do talk about the vision for Boston Ave. And yes, I do appreciate Councilor Beres, or President Bears and Councilor Callahan. When we discuss zoning, we are trying to, you know, provide a groundwork for the vision. And I listened to the planning and permitting meeting last week, and I do know that there is thoughts around walkability and an area in which we should have residents that can commute via bicycle. So I think we do need to be mindful of exactly what we're thinking about when we see the vision for this area. So thank you, Chair Carr, because I do appreciate exactly how you said that. But I have two questions. One of them is about co-housing, because I am excited to learn more about that. But my question about co-housing is, how come the Boston Ave corridor has completely different, the table for dimensions, than Medford Square? And what's the vision on co-housing being specifically different than it was in Medford Square? I think I'd really like to know where the thought is at. And Paola, I have another question, and this could be a really just simple, this is how we do zoning. But when I was looking at the map, and this just might be my brain, I saw the BA1, 2, and 3, and I'm just interested why we have BA1 in the middle. and then BA2 and 3 to the left and to the right, just when you're looking at a zoning map. And again, I can appreciate this just might be how we do zoning. But when I see BA1, it could be like Wackling Court. Then we go down to the hillside, BA2 and BA3. And I'm not talking about the dimensions, but just literally looking at the map to make it very easy for the community to see it, so that they can understand where their neighborhoods are. So just if I could ask Paola just to help me understand that so I can share that with the residents that asked me as well and that are on this meeting. So thank you, because I see a lot of Hillside members here. So co-housing, just a quick question about that. And then my last question would be about the setbacks. I do appreciate and understand how important it is when we think about setbacks. But a specific experience I experienced as a business owner on Boston Ave is we have tight sidewalks, but we also have tight roads. And I appreciate we can have a bike lane. I think that's super important. But due to the snow removal and just the abundant amount of snow, we unfortunately did have the bike lane impacted because cars were parking in the bike lane. So I do really want to be mindful. Also, if we change the setbacks on specific parts of Boston Ave, we're limiting those commercial spaces, specifically the cafes, to have outdoor seating. And I think that is one of the wonderful things about my neighbors is the community is always sitting outside. Kids are up there. Dogs are up there. And I just really want to support the business community. And I don't want to limit that. So I think those are four questions. And I can repeat them. But I would love some clarification, please.
[Page Buldini]: No, that's okay. So it was just a clarifying question. I'm literally looking at the Medford Square District table. It's section 94, 3-2C, table A. And with co-housing, it has different recommendations for MS 1, 2, 3, and 4, co-housing comes before the CB board. Where when I was looking at the one from today, it's just different. It's BA1, yes. BA2, yes. BA3, yes.
[Page Buldini]: Okay. Thank you, I guess. And then setbacks. Just a quick question about the change for the setbacks. Which change? Sorry. That's okay. I think, let me, I'm on my computer, so let me try to pull it back up.
[Page Buldini]: And I think it was when Paola was explaining it's because of the sidewalk sizes, but I could be wrong.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you for explaining it. I just want to make sure, especially if we're doing mixed use, as I believe it should be specifically in that area, that we don't take away sidewalk space for if it would be like a cafe or something. That's super important up there. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Wonderful.
[Page Buldini]: Sure, thank you so much, Paige Woldini, 37 Winter Street. I first want to say thank you so much to the city councilors for supporting Medford Youth Girls Softball and saying yes to our food trucks for this weekend. I also need to give a big shout out for Councilor Scarpelli and to Clerk Rich, also to Josh Hunter at the Board of Health, because getting food trucks in Medford is tricky and they made it really seamless to navigate. Thank you very much. If anybody wants to come down to Tufts Park, we're going to have a blast this Saturday. Please keep the rain away from us. And then just a quick question. Councilor Tseng, thank you so much for being so open to speaking again with the chamber. And I'm greatly inspired that you were inspired by our chat in January. We did share a lot of our feelings as the Medford Chamber of Commerce and as small business owners. So I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue to talk to the city councilors when it comes to an important variance and ordinance like this. And I do think that there are some great things that the Chamber of Commerce can bring specifically when it comes to this. to be proactive and supportive stakeholders. So I'm really looking forward to that. And I know all the city councilors received emails from a lot of our chamber board members today. So I just really greatly appreciate all of the time and effort to respond because we are here to help. And we're looking forward to making this a really successful space, not just to penalize, but to create a funnel to really support the business community. So thank you all.
[Page Buldini]: Second.
[Page Buldini]: Yep. Thank you, everyone, for being here. And I appreciate having this opportunity. I agree with what Sean said, what John Anderson brought up. I'm sure other people on the questions from the public. And I think that. Or agree as well. So thank you for matching that, because when I was looking at them back and forth, I had a couple questions. I'm real quick because I caught it fast. The active frontage. I noticed I was trying to pull it up on the one of the versions I have. I know it's for the parking garage. But is that something that would be
[Page Buldini]: Okay, thank you. And then I noticed when I looked through the awesome RFP that was put out there, the map has trees and that could just be because it's a pretty rendering abutting 93 in the parking garage. Is that the intention or is it just for the design? There was a picture with lot C, and there were trees that were running behind 93.
[Page Buldini]: Okay, just interested with obviously what we've been speaking about, about, you know, taking care of the environment and trees, just interested if that was part of the intention. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: I second it.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you so much. A couple of quick questions. Are we going to update the zoning maps that have already been put through? So that's up on the zoning website?
[Page Buldini]: Salem Street, when we have Medford Square, when we have the overlay. Will those be available to the public to see on the website?
[Page Buldini]: Perfect, because I was having issues finding it and then we get is interactive map up to where you can put your address in.
[Page Buldini]: I was up on the page earlier.
[Page Buldini]: that's the the change from mx2 to mx1 at park and salem that if you scroll down to all the way to the bottom yeah is there any way that we can make that a little user friendly i don't know that's i know a website upgrade and i'm not here to judge it just gets a little
[Page Buldini]: Great. And then is there communication for the Boston Avenue residents or business owners for these meetings? Do we know about the schedule?
[Page Buldini]: Great, thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you. Can you hear me? Emily, thank you for changing the colors on this map. We really appreciate that. I appreciate my colleagues who spent a lot of time, the city councilors and the PD office, because I know a lot of changes were made on this. So thank you, Emily, for doing that. I just have a question in regard to a section of the map, if that's okay. Better? Thank you. Better? Awesome. So that I also don't have a voice right now, so I will speak louder. The magical seat. Excellent. So in the section of the map from St. Joe's, I do know that that is one of the higher zones. And as many of my colleagues and probably the city Councilors, and I know the PD office does, we walk the area. So I walked it yesterday and I talked to a couple of residents. And so when it comes to the setbacks, the front setbacks, especially like where Grace Episcopal Church is, there's a significant, it's pretty much street level, but then there's a huge drop off. So I do understand why the Mystic Valley side of that would be higher, because it's like 11, I mean 11 stories, but it's really like four stories. My concern is, especially being a part of the community meetings up at Tufts, And listening to the residents specifically speak about height, wind tunnels, high street is two lanes, it's tight. There are single family residents across the street. To be mindful of that, it seems just really high. And I would just like to know your thoughts on that. And if there's thoughts, if we could bring that down lower. Or, and I know it's tricky because those parcels technically aren't necessarily split parcels, but if you look down on the Mystic Valley Parkway side, obviously St. Joe's has like five, but those ones are significantly lower. So I could see that, but I do know if it becomes an issue with, you know, the ownership of those parcels. So could you just share with that? Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Sorry, I'm like. So to kind of echo what John Anderson said at one point when we are talking to the developer on Salem Street. It was hard because there are so many options. And so I'm not a developer, but I'm trying to envision who we want to develop this area. I'm not a planner, but I want to be forthcoming to the developers we want. And is that, does that feel right to have this map here, but yet really truly, like we would just have to really continue to explain, but actually that's not really true. You know, but not to say it facetiously, but you know what I mean?
[Page Buldini]: Is it appropriate, and Janelle too, to ask the CD board members how they feel about the height in this area?
[Page Buldini]: One's 11.
[Page Buldini]: The one to the right's five. I literally was there yesterday.
[Page Buldini]: But then there's two little residential units as well behind the church.
[Page Buldini]: I agree with Sean. And I think if I heard Alicia correct and maybe Danielle too, that was perhaps recommended as well. So I agree with Sean. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you so much. It's so exciting to see everything that you've done, and especially starting this up. And thank you to the city councilors, to the board, and everybody who's here and watching. A few things that my colleagues have already talked about, but I think it would be interesting to know. May I just ask, just for protocol, the discussions that were had with that subgroup, is that something that we can discuss? because I think some of it's important is that I don't know the protocol.
[Page Buldini]: The one that was discussing amongst the city councilors.
[Page Buldini]: Okay, perfect. So one thing that I think and my fellow board member Began had mentioned is this is incredible and it's awesome how we have already the zones, but is it possible to create districts within each area in the square? I know that it's already created because even look even looking at the RFP that Transom has and learning about when we saw that map change in the amendments for all of the parcels around City Hall, I think it'd be really helpful looking at the historic opportunity too, if we could create even those districts, that would be helpful. And then I think that could also help out when we discuss parking, I think into also, agree with the Councilor Leming, I think affordable housing is very important. And the opportunity to have people living in Medford Square is very important. But as a business owner and a member of the Chamber of Commerce, I just wanna make sure that we also respect the businesses that have set their roots down. And I wanna make sure if we do have housing above as we want and we're gonna incentivize it, which is great. We're also mindful of what that looks like for the commercial base. We saw this on Salem Street most recently with the new zoning, that it was a full commercial lot. Granted, it's different zoning, but the commercial space went from three units to 575 square feet with units above for housing. And with the incentivized housing for affordability, which is great, it did then not allow any commercial parking. So and then looking at Salem Street and looking at how different the density there is, I think it's important to just be mindful of that. So I guess that's a lot of questions. And then one last thing, I do appreciate, Councilor Lumming, what you said about the almost historic tourism thought. I think any way that we can bring people into Medford, The 250th anniversary celebration of the Battle of Lexington infused some of those communities. So to think if we could create a historic district overlay or something that we can then use that to bring other people into Medford to live and to spend money and to patronize our businesses would be really great. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: My name is Page Buldini. I'm the owner of Paige Aesthetic Skincare in the Hillside, a Medford public school parent, and I serve on the board of the Medford Chamber of Commerce. My husband, Jeff, grew up here. Our daughter, Kate, is a second grader at Missittuck, growing up in the same schools and community her dad once did. Nearly seven years ago, I started my business as a new mom and kept it open through the pandemic, when many in my industry closed. I had to adapt, problem solve, and keep revenue coming in. That's not easy as a solo business owner, but I did it. I also helped others in the skincare industry push through because I believe in lifting people up. That's who I am. I don't quit, I adapt, I listen, and I follow through. And that's what I'll bring to City Hall. Those lessons also reflect the spirit of Medford, a city with deep roots and tradition, a city that's growing and changing, and above all, a city whose strength is in its people, our schools, our small businesses, and the city services that keep us running. I've seen what happens when we bring those pieces together. As a chamber board member, I work to support small businesses. I've coached and sponsored local youth sports, and I know the value of showing up for kids and families. Partnering with the PTOs and schools, I've helped expand resources for students, families, and educators. And by connecting groups like the Chamber run Medford and Tufts University, I've helped raise funds to bring Tufts student-athletes in as volunteers for school and community events. Proof of what's possible in a reminder that Tufts can be a stronger financial partner and better neighbor. That's why I believe leadership has to rise above groups or sides. I chose to run unaffiliated. It would be easier to do this with a group or a slate, but that's not why I'm here. I'm willing to take the harder path to represent everyone, to bridge divides, and to make decisions rooted in what's best for Medford. This is a critical moment. Decisions on zoning and growth will shape our future for decades. When zoning reform came forward, I asked to slow it down, not to stop it, so we could get it right. I championed separating business districts with mixed use from residential, and I used that time to ask questions and push for input from fire, police, and educators. That's how I will approach every issue. Do the work, listen first, and make decisions with real-life data and community voices. That same approach must guide our budget and growth. We need to generate more revenue to make Medford stronger. That means creating a developer program with clear expectations that ensures developers support our infrastructure. It means attracting the right businesses shaped by community feedback to fill vacant storefronts and bring in revenue that Medford needs to invest in our future. What sets me apart is I've lived this. I've run a business here. I've navigated challenges and I stayed the course when it would have been easier to quit. That experience makes me the candidate best prepared to strengthen Medford's future. At the end of the day, what I bring is different. I've proven I can get through hard challenges. I'm connected across Medford. I adapt, I listen, and I solve problems, and I'm not afraid to show up for the work. After more than 15 years of living here, I believe Medford's best days are ahead, and I will keep showing up, asking questions, and moving forward together. Thank you to the Medford Democratic Committee, to my fellow candidates, and to everyone here showing up for our city. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: th th th
[Page Buldini]: My name is Page Buldini. I'm the owner of Paige Aesthetic Skincare in the Hillside, a Medford Public School parent, and I serve on the board of the Medford Chamber of Commerce. My husband, Jeff, grew up here. Our daughter, Kate, is a second grader at Missittuck, growing up in the same schools and community her dad once did. Nearly seven years ago, I started my business as a new mom and kept it open through the pandemic, when many in my industry closed. I had to adapt, problem solve, and keep revenue coming in. That's not easy as a solo business owner, but I did it. I also helped others in the skincare industry push through because I believe in lifting people up. That's who I am. I don't quit. I adapt. I listen and I follow through. And that's what I'll bring to City Hall. Those lessons also reflect the spirit of Medford, a city with deep roots and tradition, a city that's growing and changing, and above all, a city whose strength is in its people, our schools, our small businesses, and the city services that keep us running. I've seen what happens when we bring those pieces together. As a chamber board member, I work to support small businesses. I've coached and sponsored local youth sports, and I know the value of showing up for kids and families. Partnering with the PTOs and schools, I've helped expand resources for students, families, and educators. And by connecting groups like The Chamber, run Medford and Tufts University, I've helped raise funds to bring Tufts student athletes in as volunteers for school and community events, proof of what's possible, and a reminder that Tufts can be a stronger financial partner and better neighbor. That's why I believe leadership has to rise above groups or sides. I chose to run unaffiliated. It would be easier to do this with a group or a slate, but that's not why I'm here. I'm willing to take the harder path to represent everyone, to bridge divides, and to make decisions rooted in what's best for Medford. This is a critical moment. Decisions on zoning and growth will shape our future for decades. When zoning reform came forward, I asked to slow it down, not to stop it, so we could get it right. I championed separating business districts with mixed use from residential, and I used that time to ask questions and push for input from fire, police, and educators. That's how I will approach every issue. Do the work, listen first, and make decisions with real-life data and community voices. That same approach must guide our budget and growth. We need to generate more revenue to make Medford stronger. That means creating a developer program with clear expectations that ensures developers support our infrastructure. It means attracting the right businesses shaped by community feedback to fill vacant storefronts and bring in revenue that Medford needs to invest in our future. What sets me apart is I've lived this. I've run a business here. I've navigated challenges and I stayed the course when it would have been easier to quit. That experience makes me the candidate best prepared to strengthen Medford's future. At the end of the day, what I bring is different. I've proven I can get through hard challenges, I'm connected across Medford, I adapt, I listen, and I solve problems, and I'm not afraid to show up for the work. After more than 15 years of living here, I believe Medford's best days are ahead and I will keep showing up, asking questions, and moving forward together. Thank you to the Medford Democratic Committee, to my fellow candidates, and to everyone here showing up for our city. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Yes, so I'm Page Buldini. I'm originally from Holliston, a suburb outside of Framingham, and I've been in Medford for over 15 years. My husband's from Medford. Oh, nice. Yep, where we live on Winter Street is where he grew up. Own a skincare salon on the hillside. So I've been there for almost seven years And I am a mom to a rising second grader. She is going to be She's so excited for school. She is at mistook formerly the Columbus School. Okay, and I'm also a board member of the Chamber of Commerce Wow Impressive. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: It's so funny. Had you asked me this a few years ago, I probably wouldn't have said yes. But I think when I opened my skincare salon there, I've realized there's never really a good time to take a big jump into something. And I've been very lucky to have been involved with a lot of really great initiatives and collaborations through the chamber and as a small business owner. So I've already been in the room for some of these great decisions. And I just decided, well, I really want to help get that together. And I think my experience as a small business owner and now as a public school parent, it allows me to already have been doing some of those great things. So it was just the perfect time to give it a try.
[Page Buldini]: Yes. Well, one, a few of them, of course. I'm very passionate and excited to hear that the charter has made it and will be on our ballot in November. So that's very exciting. And I think specifically as a member of the board for the chamber and a business owner, ward representation, specifically in our business districts, is essential. And I feel like the more opportunity that we can get people together and that we can get the opportunity for there to be a representative if people have a problem, they can go and talk to them. And then that's a liaison, another step into City Hall. It's great. And I feel like to kind of parlay that too, it would be really wonderful if we could create roundtables. So essentially within our wards, we have the opportunity. And I found this with everything with zoning, which I'm sure we'll chat about more too. We'll get into it. There was a lot of information out there, but there was no way to fully gather it. And when I have my clients in the room, I get to actively listen. Right. And they come from all different neighborhoods, even outside of Medford, and everybody was confused. So I think if we could have a good ward representative in your community, then every month or so, they can meet with our city service providers, City Hall, and the neighbors to chat. I also think zoning, that's a big one. We'll keep talking about it. Oh, yeah. I think as a city, we do need zoning reform. I definitely that is not a question for many people. And as you know, I've been speaking about it and how to include a lot of studies and a lot of individuals that have real life experience like Medford fire police, DW and our teachers. and get their input. So I feel like doing a slow phased approach focusing on Medford Square and Mystic Ave and then if we can support as a city, then we can look into our residents. So I've been actively speaking out since May. And I also think a really great program we have that we need to utilize more is our vacant storefronts. As a small business owner, I think it's really wonderful to find ways to make these squares vibrant, right? If we want to continue to build Medford, we need to support the small businesses that are there, but we need to incentivize the business owners and landlords to actually want to come. But yeah, and then pretty much my biggest thing is I want to create a space where Medford Fire, Police, DPW, and our teachers have a liaison to City Hall. I feel like that is something that we're lacking, and I feel like I could be a a great communicator as I have been within the chamber and my business.
[Page Buldini]: I am on my own, but I feel very lucky that I have a lot of support from my family, my friends, my clients, small business owners. And because I've been actively listening to the questions and the concerns from different sides of Medford, I feel like I couldn't do a good job representing the whole city if I decided to just join a group. And I want to keep that open-minded space that I might not agree, or an individual might not agree with me, but I will always be available to listen. And I have learned from getting feedback, which in the moment might not feel great. I can learn something, no matter what. I'm always learning lessons. So I feel like having a difference in perspectives is huge for problem solving. Because if we're all thinking alike, there's no way that we can get creative, and there's always something that you can learn. So running independently is super important. Yes, it's a little trickier. Um, but there, as I've learned, there's a lot of people in Medford that feel the same. They're like, kind of like some things on one side or some things in the other, but they really care about Medford. And I'm looking for that person. I feel like I can do a good job representing them. And again, I'm here to listen to.
[Page Buldini]: I'm gonna try.
[Page Buldini]: Well, I have to say, as a member of the chamber, I was privy to learning about it, but I feel like I had no idea what was going on. And once I saw, mostly on social media, from other residents, specifically in the Glenwood neighborhood, And on Salem Street, I was like, oh, wow, this is a really big deal. And then just as a, again, business owner in a business district, I just kept thinking about, OK, well, if this is an impact, no matter what, I want to really learn about how we decided to come about that. So I just started asking questions. And I feel really lucky that there are so many residents in the community who have done so much research and they're open to answering my questions. Because I was writing emails and I was speaking at the community development meetings and some of the city council meetings and those are kind of the forums to really get those in those answers. Residents did that and that's really incredible. What I did learn is a lot of the questions that I did ask and they were quite specific about how we thought about zoning, the studies or the impacts studies that were done to inform our decisions, and the real life examples weren't really happening. So I was happy to see that there's been conversations around that. Since May 30th was the first email I sent out to the city councilors, planning and development, community development board, and the mayor, I've been actively asking, what does Medford Fire, police, DPW, and our teachers think? and their union members, because they are, like myself, I have that real-life experience when I'm in a room with my clients. It's so important to have data and it's so important to have similar neighborhoods or to see cities that have done zoning like this, but sometimes you need that real-life, like, could a fire truck fit down this street? You know, there's questions about parking, like what does our traffic enforcement think, you know, and I feel like the more times you can bring those individuals that have real life experience into the conversation, it's game changing, and it's collaborative. So those are my main points. The reason why I did say publicly, slow down first, and then I said separate, was because I couldn't get those answers. And then I was super honored. And it wasn't in a means to create problems or trouble, but the fire chief did respond. And I was so honored. That he responds. Yeah. And I thought that was brave. And I thought that was incredible to hear, again, that real life. experienced.
[Page Buldini]: Yes. So that has created a lot. I'm really still kind of unsure about where the process stands. I was able to put in the last moment for public comment was the 23rd. Right. And I did post I will share this in this will be on my website and social media. I did share a question specifically in my area which my so we live in the hillside. Right. My business is in the hillside. But the way that it's zoned is where we are, there's going to be the proposed tough zone. Where my business is, it's the Boston Ave corridor. And the zoning around that, and this is very similar to a lot of our other business districts, is called UR1, which goes up high. And that would be wonderful and great in some areas, but where we are, it's a lot of single family or multifamilies, but there's those residents. And it was my question was, well, if we're doing the tough zone, which is the goal is to bring back more students for Tufts. Right. Why are we then outside of the tough zone making the availability?
[Page Buldini]: So those are the questions that I feel like are really important to ask and if if there is true studies if there is community Response, which we've heard right foreign to and for for and against that would be great But we need to hear it. We need to see it and we need the consultants. It's also here, right?
[Page Buldini]: Funny thing, just a quick add, and then we can talk, because I know we have some other great questions. So we live down the hill. So our neighborhood would be zoned, I think it's NR3. So it wouldn't really change much. And my neighborhood is already being developed. So we're already living through that impact. So I have that real life experience. And a bunch of my neighbors and myself have spoken about developers that are doing that. So I do understand that side. Where I am on Boston Ave, it's nine units right in a row. It would be ideal for mixed use. And I've put my business, which is the way that I pay my bills and support my family, out there because I'm not opposed to it. And I do believe that there should be affordable housing above me. It makes sense. It's right near the Green Line. It's right on Boston Ave. I just want to know how will we then support the businesses if there's business disruption, if there is changes to parking. And I think those are the questions that we need to really just know. And it could just be this is how it's going to be. But at least if we can put it out there, we can advocate for those.
[Page Buldini]: Yes. So I have, I think, three pretty solid ideas. One would be zoning specifically, making sure that we can bring commercial development in if it's Mystic Ave corridor, Medford Square. Great. Let's do that. Let's work with individuals that will help bring in some money. I think also a really great thing is Medford, as you know, because you're from Medford, there is so much history. And I feel like we need to tap into tourism. And I feel like if we can build a city that people want to come and visit, they will spend money, they will stay, they will then visit those businesses. That's revenue right there. And we really need to tap in. And especially what I got to see with the 250th celebration of the revolution and what Lexington did, that was incredible. And to see celebrities coming in, I feel like that's an untapped market. We have the Chevalier, the amount of really wonderful and inspiring people who come in, It's great and it's an extension of the city. So I think that is super important. So really diving into tourism. Another thing that I learned when I was learning about zoning and affordable housing, what other cities do is they will bus in the city of whatever, say city of Medford, would bus in developers. And they would plan a day with maps and show them the available lots and say, this is what we want here. This is what we see that could be built here. Right. This is what our streets, sewers, schools would need to accommodate that. Right. So we then incentivize these people and we let them know what's because if you don't know, you don't know. Right. And I'm not a developer, but I would assume as a business owner, the easiest way to funnel something in is to show people that way. So I feel like creating a really strong, it would almost be like a developer engagement program. And then using our contacts, the Chamber of Commerce, who I love and super support. Chamber does a good job. We sure do. And I feel like that needs to be, that relationship needs to be much stronger. I myself, I'm a small business owner. I love to volunteer on the chamber. I love to help people. I have friends that start businesses and they call me. That is such a great asset. And a lot of us have learned, like, I've had pipes burst. I've had fires. And those are the things, if you don't know, you don't know. But continuing to support that and other organizations that are in the city, I think, will help make City Hall run smoother as well. And then we can bring in some dough. Sounds good.
[Page Buldini]: So I feel like, yes, if we can be very mindful how we zone. Yes, we don't want to push anybody out. That is never the goal. We want to bring in, but we never want to push out. And I, myself, and many other small businesses, we don't just have our small business. We cater to our clients. I have 70% of my clients come from outside Medford, and then they go to Goldilocks, they go to Tasty, they go to the Chevalier. or they moved to Medford because they've now come from JP or Rhode Island or New Hampshire. So that is, small businesses are key. Also, I think another really wonderful thing about many small business owners is a lot of us have children in the school systems. So we are fully invested to building that up so that we can create those community connections. There's this really great group right now. It's the four elementary schools. It's called the Citywide PTO. So all of the elementary schools have parent volunteers, and we've been doing collaborative events. to connect the four schools, but then to also raise money. And I love that I can use my small business friends and chamber friends, business owners, the banks, you know, all of these institutions, and then we can help fund them. They all help. Yes. And it's just it's everybody wants to help. So small business has to be at the heart of this. And it has to be something in the forefront when we plan.
[Page Buldini]: Yeah. Yeah, they go to the Ford like right. It's great. And I feel like the more that we can do that, the better that it will be.
[Page Buldini]: Yeah.
[Page Buldini]: Good supporter of all. He is.
[Page Buldini]: All Medford restaurants, schools, people.
[Page Buldini]: So that was a hard one for me because I never try to go negative. But what I could say is what I would like to strengthen. Yes. Especially because I'm on the hillside and this is always a, you know, a neighborhood thing is our relationship as a city with Tufts University.
[Page Buldini]: I feel like that is an untapped market. The one thing I can say is because of where I am on the hillside with the chamber, but also just I went to a manual college and I have a great connection with now Tufts Athletics. Any time for some of these PTO events that I've needed help and I've called Tufts, whether it's community relations or the Tufts student athletes, some were my clients, they always volunteer. So one of those PTO events that I was just a very small part of, organizing. It was at the Great American Beer Hall. The Citywide PTO did an excellent job. It was insane. And I just asked my friends at Tufts, the student liaisons for the athletes, and we got like 30 student athletes that came and participated and volunteered. So when you ask, they will help. But things that I learned when I've been researching and sitting in some of the community meetings is they're a big part of the footprint up on the hillside. And as we know, it's a university, so we understand about taxes. But what I didn't know about was the pilot programs. Do you know about that? I, I, a little bit. Yes.
[Page Buldini]: No, so it's been interesting. So essentially, it's if you are like a nonprofit or university, you're not paying taxes. But Medford has in the past received payments from Tufts, and it's to support infrastructure, it's support the schools. But I think if we were negotiating there, I would have to fact check this. But I don't think there is a permanent pilot program. So I think that would be a great idea. Let's say Tufts, you're here, you're part of, you know, you help our small businesses, but you also help, you know, with housing. So why don't we see what we can do there? So that would be a pilot program. I also think we're in the Vogue. This is such a great space, internship opportunities, like Tufts, that is a great opportunity for all of the Vogue, but any student really. And like I said, if we can ask, I think it's just we need to make sure we create that strong, that Tufts is in Medford, but we are not Tufts, we are Medford, and they're a neighbor, but they also need to be a willing participant. And I have seen them come to the table, but I feel like that would be a really great opportunity to strengthen, and that would help also infuse some of our money.
[Page Buldini]: The worst thing happens is a no, but at least it's a try. So those are the things. And then hopefully we can bring in some more connections. All right. So you gave me an almost least favorite thing, but I love that.
[Page Buldini]: So most favorite. Yes. What's your most favorite? So there's so many things. I mean, I could do all of the great small businesses and how we could really become a Mecca of the food world with everything going. But I think the easiest and most important thing about Medford is the convenience factor of you can get in and out. We have now the Green Line. We have the commuter rail. I'm right near Route 16. I'm 93. But as somebody who's from Holliston, which is pretty rural, there's farms, there's field, there are places in Medford that you go and you forget that you're so close to the city. Um, and we live right near Memorial. So we have the mystic river, the boat club up at the mystic lakes, right? The pond, the sheep's fold. So you can go and all of a sudden there's deer because you're in Oak Grove, right? I heard a deer or there's a great blue heron that flew by. So even though we are so conveniently close to the city, north, south, east, west, you have those like glimmers. And then when I join the chamber, I help out with communications. Not being from Medford, I just went to the library and did it, which I'll plug the library all day. Me too. I love the library. It's a good library.
[Page Buldini]: Yeah, it is and we um, I did a deep dive because if I wanted to help share information about medford There's so much history and I feel like when it comes back to who I am and what i'm doing for You know medford city my city council run, right? It's really learning from history talking to the people who've lived here Thinking about how we can continue to grow and finding ways because medford has been around as one of I mean It's like the sixth or seventh city like it's been established for a very long time. There's a lot of great history, but there's these gems that I feel like we're very lucky to have. There is.
[Page Buldini]: And if we continue to share it, then I can help with tourism.
[Page Buldini]: So the best way is my email, which is pageboldini at gmail.com. I have my website, which is electpageboldini.com. I also have Instagram, which is pageboldini. I have Facebook, which is pageboldini medford city council. I have been getting coffee with everyone possible. When I decided to pursue the idea of running for city council, I asked every elected official from city council, mayor, state rep, and school committee, and I almost was successful in getting and having coffee or meeting with everyone. Some of it was just schedules. And it was so helpful because I figured if I can get myself to city hall, I always want to start off with the right foot forward in a positive way. And I learned a lot and everybody was very helpful. I will get coffee. I will have coffee with anybody. I had two coffees today. One was decaf. I'm open to listen. I'm here. I'm here to learn. I only know what I know, but I am very open to hearing others because they know better than me for some things.
[Page Buldini]: There's some great events right now, too. I know I'll be at National Night Out with the Chamber, so I'll be good, and I'm sponsoring the dunk tank.
[Page Buldini]: So I'll be there. That's next week. For the Chamber, we have great events, too. We have Run Medford.
[Page Buldini]: That's big. I'm so excited because as a Missittuck parent, and the Missittuck PTO is so great, I'm just like a supporter on the outside. They're incredible. It was brought to my attention that they were looking to do for the Citywide PTO, the four elementary schools, a road race to raise funds, kind of like the Jingle Bell once was. And around the same time, Dave McGillivray, who is awesome, and we love, and Denise, and the whole crew, DSME, he is a Chamber member, and he was talking about Run Medford, which the Chamber is a proud sponsor as well, and I just had the idea, like, what if we connect? And so I pitched it to the Chamber and Dave, and they were like, please. So then I pitched it to the citywide PTO. And I'm so proud and honored. It's going to be a great race. It's September 26 and seven. The kids run is Friday. Yeah, we're gonna have like a rager Saturday is going to be epic. And then Dave offered to cut an equal check to all eight. So not just our nice eight of the schools like Curtis Tufts, the high school, so he really truly is supporting so run Medford and then Oktoberfest with the chamber. It's going to be a really big one. This is our hundredth year
[Page Buldini]: Kiwanis, Rotary.
[Page Buldini]: And a lot of good shows. A lot of them have hit huge milestones too.
[Page Buldini]: Well, thank you for having me, and thank you for doing this. This is important. There's only a few ways that people are learning about information, so thank you for being one of them. Very welcome, very welcome, thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Go ahead. Hi there, Page Buldini. Thank you for the late hour. 37 Winter Street and my business is 319 Boston Ave. I support zoning reform. We need this in our city, but we have to do it right. I appreciate Ms. Evans' perspective tonight and the honesty and openness from everyone here to build a stronger process. And I want to thank the mayor for acknowledging just how personal and emotional this has become for so many. Let's start when we're ready in our business district. That's how we bring in revenue, support our economy, and make sure zoning works. Let's strengthen our storefront programs, incentivize landlords, and build in protections for small businesses. Parking can't be an afterthought. It needs to be planned for every district from the start. I implore you to please speak directly with our city service providers, Medford Fire, Police, DPW and our schools and their union members and truly listen to their real life experience before moving forward. The comprehensive plan is a strong foundation but we need both the data and the real life input to guide us. And can we please if possible share a true updated timeline. I know how hard it is for everyone to keep up, even for those of us who are trying. Let's revisit Salem Street and Mystic Ave. Let's start with commercial. And when we get that right, then we move into residential. Let's take the time to get this right for Medford. And while we're at it, we've already seen what partnerships can look like. Tufts has agreed to fund a Boston Ave streetscape study. That's the kind of outside support that we should be seeking, and we can be successful. Thank you, guys. Thank you very much.
[Page Buldini]: Is it on?
[Page Buldini]: Page Buldini, 37 Winter Street, and I own a small business, 319 Boston Ave. First, I'd like to ask, have fire, police, and traffic been part of this process? These apartments will be directly affected by changes in density, traffic flow, and emergency access. And I think their input should be part of the conversation before decisions are made. And finally, I hope the city is thinking carefully about how special administrative zones would function, especially in places like the hillside. We already have seen tension around institutional growth. Will this process for development proposals come from what we saw from recent developments with the tough storm, or will they follow a similar pattern? That experience raised a lot of questions, and I think people deserve answers before zoning moves forward. And just one follow-up question about what the last person said. It would be really great to know because Tufts, yes, although they might have their development entity own, I think from that map, it's literally right next to it, if that's Winthrop. So that would literally be adjacent in a budding, and that's within the Boston Ave corridor, which I know we're not speaking about, but it would be really important specifically because that's where both the dorms and the businesses and residents are. So that would be great.
[Page Buldini]: Page Buldini, 37 Winter Street, and I own a skincare salon at 319 Boston Ave. Sorry about my back to everybody. I want to start by thanking you guys. I know that we don't have to do that, but thank you so much. I know how many messages I've sent personally, so I can only imagine what you've been receiving overall. I appreciate the time and effort you're putting into reading, considering it all. This is a big opportunity for Medford. In conversations with housing experts, I've learned that this level of public engagement is rare, which is exactly why it matters. We have a chance to set the tone for how cities move forward with transparency, collaboration, and all departments at the table from the start. I also want to ask about the comprehensive plan. It's been referenced as a basis for this proposal, but were the departments like Medford Public Schools, police, fire, and their unions formally consulted when it was created? and what steps have been taken during this process to gather their input. That feedback, excuse me, that feedback matters, and the public deserves to hear it. I respectfully ask the board to pause. Let's be sure that the input from Everett Public Schools, police, and fire have been actively gathered and shared before any decisions are made. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Sure. Thank you so much for having me. It's such an honor. I am Page Buldini she her. I have lived in Medford, Massachusetts for over 15 years now, and I'm very excited to be running for city council. Thank you for having me. Um, things about me. I own a small business, a skincare salon up in the Hillside by Tufts called page aesthetics. I've been here for over six years. I am a proud mom of a seven-year-old rising second grader at Mississippi elementary school. And I love that I am on the board of the Chamber of Commerce, which has been such a really cool way for me to use my small business experience, specifically while I was running it opening during the pandemic, and then being a public school parent. And then my husband also is from Medford, and we get to raise our daughter in the house that he grew up in. So I just love all these ties to Medford, which are great.
[Page Buldini]: So this is so hard and I feel like out of this whole prep that because I love to prep before I get to speak with anyone. Because there's as a proud board member of the chamber and a member obviously with my business think there's something like over 130 different food, restaurant, cafe, pizza shops in Medford. And I was like, Oh, well, maybe I can just like go through every neighborhood and shout out my favorite ones. And I kept going and going, going, and then we would have like an hour of a podcast and we'll do that another day. So I think to just save time, um, I would have to say Goldilocks bagels, which is my neighbor down right down the hill on the hillside. And our true love story actually happened. It was so funny. They opened a few months after I did. And Lindsey, who we love, Lindsey and Ed, had posted on Instagram that they were short cash. And this is, I mean, our businesses in customer service are a little different now, but, you know, a lot of credit cards are used now, but cash sometimes is too. So she just posted this story and I happen to have some cash at the moment, small bills and my husband sells beer at Fenway. So he did too. So I just ran down the street and I brought like a bag of ones, like in a Ziploc and she was like, where do you get all this cash? And I'm like, it's not that much. It just is our business. And from there, she has beat Lindsay specifically. And I love it to have become my small business besties. I own a small business. It's hard to run a small business solo. And it's also really rewarding when you find a friend. who's navigating similar things. So shout out to Goldilocks. I'd have to say their breakfast sandwiches are phenomenal. But my order, if you want to know, is an onion bagel with chive cream cheese, tomato and bacon.
[Page Buldini]: Well, they're just good. They're good humans and it's good food. Right. It's so easy.
[Page Buldini]: Yes. And thank you for asking. Um, honestly, a couple of years ago, this would never have been a thought in my mind. And I feel like that's the best thing about really growing up. I mean, I'm 41 and I feel like I'm still just stepping into who I am. And I think once my daughter went into public school, I was able to then realize I love owning my skincare salon. I love being a parent. And there was just something more. And I got the opportunity to be on the board for the chamber. And I got to be in the room with a lot of really cool business owners and decision makers in the city. And they kind of started listening to some of my ideas. And we got to do some really cool collaborations, which one is coming up with Ron Medford and the Citywide PTOs. So some of these fun ideas that are bouncing around in my head, I get to actually connect the people. And also because I own a skate care salon, I get to have all walks of life come into my salon. and they are vulnerable, they are real, and they share, and I get to listen. So I have become a proud, active listener, and I feel like that's a really important attribute of any government, but any person. So I feel like once it all kind of happened, somebody had mentioned it, it kind of got tossed around, and so I did a little bit more research, and I just felt like I have some really great experience through professional, my professional experience, and my family experience, and my life experience. want to give it a whirl.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you for what you do, because that is very important. And I have, ironically, have a degree in psychology from a million years ago at a manual college where I graduated in 06 in philosophy. However, I would never ever say that I'm trained. I think I just through my life experiences like to listen. So the fact that you can do that and help people is awesome. So thank you.
[Page Buldini]: That's a great question. So I think a really wonderful thing that I have. via my husband being from here and me not originally being from here is, I think Medford has such deep roots and such great history, but I think we're also on this cusp of like welcoming so many new people in and so many good new businesses. So I feel like as a business owner, I really love making that easier. So I think the easiest way to do that would just make Medford open for business, right? Like make City Hall, a place where we can expedite, you know, like business, like it's hard to open a small business I guess I could say. So just making sure that the building department is prepared for that permitting is prepared for that. And then also creating that good connection with the chamber so we can nourish that. I think having strong communication is great. I love the way that I get to talk to my clients, whether it's through social media, through newsletters, so continuing to strengthen that, making our website easily accessible. I talk about it all the time. I promote the caches calendar. to like 80% of my clients if they need to figure out something to do, cause it's so great. And I love that it's on the Medford city's calendar. You can find it there too, but just making sure that residents can find the information they need very easily. And then I think specifically with when I decided to run for city council, I kind of just literally Googled or chat to BT, what does the city councilor do? And the three main reoccurring things are that the most not most important, but their main jobs are zoning ordinances and then like the general way that the community in the city government works. So I feel very lucky that I'm stepping into the midst of a big zoning conversation. And I'm learning so much and I love to learn so that's great and I feel like having the opportunity to have my clients and my neighbors ask me questions. I am a person that really believes in getting as much information as possible. And it doesn't mean if it's aligned with myself or not, because I will always find something that I can learn. So I think that the zoning reform right now is something that is really important for everybody to just really fully understand and also have an opportunity to have a say. Another cool thing that I learned about, because again, I'm learning from everywhere, is it isn't necessarily a typical way to have as many public meetings or have as many public opportunities for the community when it comes to zoning. So we actually have a lot. I do have to say, though, it's really confusing to me. I don't know if you're following along, and you might be, and this is not to even ask that of you. So to find a way, I've been advocating for like you know, pictures of what this real life pictures of or simple zoning, not critiques, but like abbreviations and just really being able to ask those questions. And I just engaged with Medford fire, Medford police and Medford schools. And that's including like chiefs down to the union reps and just ask what, how they feel about it. Cause I feel like including every person that I possibly can to get a good informed just information is the best that I can do and then by sharing that. So those are kind of my big three. It's pretty much honoring who we are, engaging who we're becoming, smart and transparent growth, small business support, obviously, and then communication are like my four big pillars that I'm actively trying to learn more about and get feedback from.
[Page Buldini]: Yeah, that's a great question. And I feel like no matter what, there's gonna be opinions that differ. And I think that's really important. I feel like that's the only way that we can get as much opinion and also like enough people that feel like they're a part of it. So I've heard all, I feel like I have really great friends that are excellent affordable housing advocates. and architects and that's their world. I also have residents that don't feel that this is something for them, or feel that their neighborhood character will change. As a business owner, so funny, I've newly been speaking at some of these meetings and I have heard public comment, negative and positive, which is fine because I'm putting myself out there and that's what happens, right? And I feel like even if it feels negative coming at me, it's feedback and it's something, even if the delivery doesn't feel kind, there's something I can learn from there and that's been helpful. And when I'm listening and speaking, I use my business where I'm currently right now, 319 Boston Ave, right on the Boston Ave corridor, which is a business district, as the perfect example of an area that should be rezoned for mixed use. And I'm literally putting my business out there, also my neighbors. It's one level of nine units. There should be housing and it should be affordable. We're right near the green line, like we're right in 93 and 16. However, as a business owner selfishly, I just was asking questions of, okay, so what were to happen if this building was incentivized to be redeveloped? you know, how would we support the small businesses? And I have gotten some information. But also another really cool plug that you didn't ask for, but it's so helpful, is the Medver public library, you can rent a librarian. I don't know if you knew this. No. Yes. Now I've done it. I've done it once with Sam, who's awesome for some campaign assistance, and she was great. And now I'm going to do it again with Jenna Barry, who is in the Resource Center. and you can ask them a question and they will find every resource possible and it could be to like build a like a model airplane or learn how to run a campaign independently or it could be how do we create a business plan and they're saying we're not experts but we will find every resource we can so Trying to find that so essentially like my hope with this is, again, I don't think everybody will be happy. I personally do feel like I need more information as I keep asking some people. I do think it would be wonderful. I know some zoning of the districts has already gone through like I know. over the Glenwood, like Salem Street has already gone through that district. I know Misty Gap Corridor has already gone through. So those are things that I don't know what they can do to kind of quote unquote go back. But I do feel like if there was a way to separate them a little bit and have strong business district zoning, figure it out, make sure we really do it. I don't want to lose affordable housing here. I feel like that's so important. And then really evaluate the residents. I feel like that could be a potential compromise. But again, I know that there's some people that feel like, I want it, let's do it. And some people are like, I don't. So it's kind of this funny place where I'm towing the line. But I do I have publicly asked to slow it down a bit. So that's, that's fair to share.
[Page Buldini]: Yeah, so it's, it's so wonderful and timely I had, I can't quote unquote I don't know if I received it or not and I'm thinking positive, but I had a second interview with the Massachusetts women's political caucus. And we spoke specifically about my views on certain things, but one thing that was really wonderful that I could share is as a skincare provider as I shared before I have all walks of life, every person, whoever they are, can come in here and feel themselves. And I feel like coming at this campaign in the way that we could run the city to find a way, we don't all have to agree, but to find specific ways that we can make people feel valued and seen, I feel like that's great. And I feel like our arts community does a really great job. And as I shouted out with Cashay before, I feel like really engaging in ways that people can feel creative, can feel themselves. It also supports like within our businesses. I feel like that's a great way to amplify maybe you know bringing in different types of businesses. They don't necessarily all have to look the same and I feel like that would be a great opportunity to diversify but also be way more inclusive and I love that we have that opportunity with specifically even with some zoning changes and stuff that's going to allow some growth. I feel like within our schools it's been really cool. I'm sure because obviously you know as well, just seeing my daughter within a member public school and the nexus program, and how it shows you know how to be a good friend and how to be a good advocate, and I just think. she's in first will finish first grade. And these are skills that she's learning. And again, it could it doesn't have to be a big broad thing. But it's coming back and making people feel valued and seen and heard. And I feel like the more that we can kind of show that within the way that we're transparent with our communication, or we're open to show businesses are welcome here. I feel like or we can continue to incorporate our arts, our music, our sports. I feel like those are just great ways that we can start. I don't necessarily know what Mefford is doing, not even that you asked wrong, but I feel like there's a great opportunity for any of the quote unquote old and new or different mindsets to actually start. Hopefully either they don't have to look at each other, but we have some, we have a, Medford is on the cusp of something really wonderful. And I feel like if we can continue to honor that, you know, the historic Med we have, but also be welcoming, I think that's a great opportunity.
[Page Buldini]: Yeah, and I do, I have been told that people don't necessarily want to come together and that is fair. And I feel like that is not any of our jobs that ever change somebody. I feel like whoever you are, you should feel good about that and be true to your values. But I feel like, and I think like Run Medford is a really great example where multiple groups can come together to literally raise money for my for public schools, you know, and I feel like there's more of those like Oktoberfest, you know, for the chamber, we had that whole street filled with all different types of businesses. And, you know, like Medford youth sports, and we had your awesome podcast, and it was just cool to see, again, they might not be politically aligned, they might not be you know, whatever type of their moral compass aligned, but we all had a blast. And I feel like more of those opportunities, again, we don't have to get along, we don't have to be together, but I feel like that's kind of my hope. And that's what I'm good at. I have no idea how it started, but I think maybe it's the active listener role. I just pick up on these things and I'm like, oh, right, like that would make sense for that and refer it out and go.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you so much. So I have my website, electpagefoldini.com. I'm also quite active on Facebook. I have pagefoldini for my third city council. I have an Instagram page, pagefoldini, simple. And then I will be, I have three upcoming barbecues that I will be posting on my newsletter. I mean, my website, I apologize. And then I'm hoping to connect for a night at Colleen's and then my friends at Four Pizza have offered toast too. So I will have that all up on my website hopefully within the next couple weeks. And then we're just going to start walking around Medford. I'm very excited. I have a little army of my neighborhood kids that are so fired up, which is really, really cool. Um, so they want to have like bike parades, but I have told them that they're not allowed to put stuff in people's mailboxes. So if you get something from me in your mailbox, it was probably from a seven year old and we apologize, but we're going to do our best.
[Page Buldini]: So, their vote for Page Buldini, we actually for my kickoff made temporary tattoos, which was a trip. So we had like half of the Miss Tuck school had temporary tattoos, which I was like, sorry. I mean, their parents said yes. So we're having fun. And I guess it's a really cool way to be a role model. Because no matter what, and I'm going to mess up 100%, and I'm going to ask for help. But I'm going to hopefully show my daughter that we can do those things. We don't have to be perfect. We can work really, really hard, but if it's coming from a space of I'm going to be as kind as I can be, I'm going to work as hard as I can be, and I'm going to try to listen. I feel like that's the best I could do, and I'm excited for it.
[Page Buldini]: No, I was trying to think of what I was, so have, I guess I'm just going to keep plugging in the library, but have you been to the Medford room in the library, the little glass room?
[Page Buldini]: Everybody? Okay, so Medford Public Library, if you're listening, endorse me, I'm just joking, but that room is really cool. Open it up and it's really cool. It's books that you can't, or items that you can't take out of the library because they're very old, but they have these drawers with files and they have all old press. It's really cool. I think they're making it all digital right now, so a lot of it is open, but I was looking at the maps. They have the ward maps, and it's just really cool because I was trying to really envision what Medford in the past looked like, and now thinking about zoning and thinking about spots, and it's a really great way, I feel like, to stay grounded specifically with a lot that's going on. to see like how far we come. And I feel like with some true collaboration, I feel like there's some good stuff that can happen. So, no, I'm just so honored to have been a part of this. So thank you for having me. Thank you for doing this too. You are doing a great job and I appreciate you being open to hear every, you know, whether it's the city Councilor or a school committee member, or even just a person in the community, you have a great way of sharing information and we need more of that. So thank you.
[Page Buldini]: Of course.
[Page Buldini]: Hi, Paige. Hi there. Thank you so much for your time tonight and for all the work that's gone into this process. I appreciate the effort to be proactive, not reactive, but in this case, we need to slow down. Oh, I'm sorry. I'm Page Buldini, 37 Winter Street, and my business is my skincare salon on 319 Boston Ave. The zoning reform affects everyone in Medford, and the questions from the communities are still piling up. If we want to be successful, we need more time, more transparency, and more clarity. First question, can this zoning reform strengthen how we address accessibility, especially in affordable and mixed-use housing? Will affordable units be required to meet ADA standards in practice? Will they be located on accessible floors? And is the Affordable Housing Trust involved in making sure these units are truly livable? I appreciate the comments about parking, but also are they accessible for those that need that? Second, what's the plan to support small businesses, especially those leasing space in our squares and corridors? How will we prevent displacement or pricing out during redevelopment? Has there been any research on how these zoning changes might affect rent, parking, or business continuity? Will the city create a transition plan to support businesses facing construction or economic shifts? And how will we make sure mixed use spaces include room for local businesses, not just chains? The third question was kind of asked already, but I do appreciate it. And I love that we are going to get feedback And I would love to hear and see feedback from our fire, DPW, police, traffic, and superintendents. I would love to hear what they think and how they feel about the impact of services, staffing, and the infrastructure. And if we can see those public comments, that would be great. Thank you again for your time and continuing this conversation with the community. I hope you consider slowing this process down so that Medford can get it right. Thank you.
[Page Buldini]: I'm good so I couldn't unmute it. Thank you. So obviously tonight is about West Medford Medford Square and as an honored board member of the Chamber of Commerce, I'm speaking specifically to those neighborhoods, because I obviously don't want to mix up my questions. And I know I've emailed you all These questions. So again, I'm hopeful that this is a great way to be respectful of your opportunity in your space. And I think asking these questions is really important because as I shared before, I just want to be a great advocate for those specific businesses slowing down. It's because These questions keep getting asked. And I have yet to hear great responses from everyone. I think that should be able to. I have had some responses. So slowing it down to make sure that we can just really incorporate that and hear from everybody what they think too.
[Page Buldini]: So you must be Paige. Hi there. I'm Page Buldini, 37 Winter Street, and I own a business at 319 Boston Ave. Thank you so much to the board, staff, and everyone who's worked so hard on the zoning reform process. Medford has been praised for its work over the last few months, many months, and that effort deserves credit. I want to be clear. I support more housing, especially affordable housing. And I understand that this intention is not for all of this development to happen right away. but that doesn't mean we shouldn't be prepared. I own a small business at 319 Boston Ave in a block that's 100% non-conforming. This quarter, like Mystic Ave and Medford Square, are exactly where we should be looking to build mixed-use space that blends housing with business. But without clear support from existing businesses, we risk losing the local services and economic activity that are already working in these areas. I've submitted questions to this board The City Council, the Office of Planning and Development, and the Mayor's Office. They are thoughtful, practical questions about timelines, infrastructures, and support, and they remained unanswered. Not likely because people don't care, but likely because this process is moving too fast. We have been told about city developments that have been consulted, but those conversations and findings have not been made public. The community deserves to see the infrastructure studies, service impact projections, and research that's guiding these decisions to speak to the board's member question earlier, if possible. Let's also hear directly from departments like fire, police, traffic enforcement, public works, permitting, and building. How are they preparing for what this means to day-to-day operations? 30 seconds. Let's make information public clearly in plain language so we can all understand what's being planned. This is a long-term investment in Medford's future. Let's be thoughtful. Let's be transparent. Let's do it together with everyone informed and ready. Please don't rush this vote. Let's take the time to make the best that we can. Thank you. Thank you, Paige.
[Page Buldini]: Hi there, Page Buldini. Thanks for everybody being here. 37 Winter Street and my business, Paige Aesthetics, is 319 Boston Ave. I support zoning reform, but want to make sure we get it right. Somerville took about seven years to finish theirs, which is way too long. But how can we ensure Medford's process is thorough, fair, and includes everyone, but doesn't seem rushed for important decisions. About 70% of my clients come from outside of Medford and they drive here. How can we protect parking for local businesses so they can keep serving customers who support our community? Both of my parents were stroke survivors and accessible parking meant the difference between being able to participate in their community or not. How will the new zoning plan ensure accessible parking for those of all abilities? Finally, how will the city keep everyone informed and involved so that no one is left out of these conversations? This zoning reform affects every resident and business owner. Thank you so much.
[Page Buldini]: Thank you so much. I apologize. I'm joining late. I just was out of a gun. Um, this is such an honor to be chatting with everybody joining late. So don't want to be repetitive. Um, I did actually I emailed the city councilors, Director Hunt, members of Director Hunt's office, but I also did email the OCD. I'm not, maybe the wrong one, but yeah. Okay, so I separate it down. I did email that. So just to clarify. Yeah. Um, but yes, I spoke directly from coming as a business owner on the Boston Ave corridor and a resident. I'm also a member of the Chamber of Commerce. And my questions were about how we could be proactive to support our small businesses. I am supportive of zoning. I'm very reform and housing in specifically where my business is. It's mixed use. It's not it's not zone from excuse. Excuse me. But it probably would make sense. But as a business owner, what is the city going to do to support us? Director Hunt had replied about incentivizing. But I just want to, I have a whole list of questions. So thank you for the opportunity. And I think it might have been Adam, I was just listening into asking about that from the small business community. It's really important that we also support the businesses that have chosen to be here. And yes, I lease, I don't own my building. And I'm up near Tufts, so I'm also very mindful of what that looks like when it comes to zoning and housing in the Dover Amendment. And I just really want to be an advocate for the community where I don't know if I could afford to rent a space if it was fully developed. I don't know what that would look like during development. And granted, it might not happen right away with zoning, but the potential is to incentivize my landlord to probably do something like that. So what are we going to do as a city to support our small business community? Because I would hope that we don't want to lose us. We've all worked really hard to help grow what these neighborhoods have become. And yes, there are a lot of us that are in buildings that are not probably zoned appropriately. So I am hopeful that we can be supportive of that. And then when it also comes to that proactivity of what we can do for our small business community, you know, if my business is rezoned, what are we gonna do to support where I could potentially be or my colleagues in the future and how to also incentivize the landlords or the building owners to develop for people like myself in mind. So thank you so much for the opportunity and thank you for everybody working hard and everybody joining us tonight.
[Page Buldini]: Hey there, I'm Page Buldini, 37 Winter Street and 319 Boston Ave. I just had a couple questions. The first one being, I myself have been contacted by some residents, some people even in this room. And although there's been so many meetings and a lot of work done on the part of y'all, a lot of us are still learning and it's still a lot of information. Is it possible, and I know the timeline is kind of pertaining to other meetings, is it possible and not to stall it or slow it down, but to really focus on some of the commercial neighborhoods in those areas, really nail it, get it done. see how the housing looks, because I'm super pro-housing as well, see how the housing looks in the square on Mystic Ave, and then move it into the residence to make sure the city can support that, the building department can support that, so that we really know what we're doing. So there's a couple questions if that's okay, but that would be the first one. The second one also, where I'm on 319 Boston Ave, Tuff owns properties along Boston Ave, and I know that this is not a Tuff's meeting, but I think it's really important to include them because with that proposal on Boston Ave, where I am, there's Hillside Hardware, Danish, that whole building is also Tuff's. So has the city had direct contact with Tuff's with this planning? Do we know what Tuff's long-time vision is? And are we collaborating? And I can pause for a second.
[Page Buldini]: just specifically to that. So where my building is, which would be perfect, it's nine units for mixed use totally. But with that said, if that were, it's a private business that owns it, like we just rent. If that does get sold, and Tufts does purchase it, which it's free for sale, would the Dover amendment change potentially that zoning? Because Tufts has then purchased it with the zoning
[Page Buldini]: If that makes sense, small business to hear that is a little tough, right?
[Page Buldini]: Tufts is a community partner. Right.
[Page Buldini]: Because that would be a bummer.
[Page Buldini]: Last one and then I'll leave. We're on the hillside. Yes, Tufts is there, but if you're from here, hillside is a really important part of that. We're on a hill. So what are we doing for the topography? Thank you, because I know with my friends who are here with the tough storm and the shade studies, that was a big deal. But now if we're going to go all the way down Boston Ave, are we being mindful of like Orchard Street, like those streets as well? And what would that look like? Because I did notice that the buildings that were on the train track side were also getting fully developed. So are we being mindful of that as well?
[Page Buldini]: My favorite thing about Medford is how the community can come together and do outdoor and indoor events, all ages, and have a blast.
[Page Buldini]: I'll be super quick. I'm Paige. I own a skincare salon in Medford. And I'm just so grateful for the opportunity to be here, but for all of you. Oh, sorry. So Hi there, I know you all have to run, but thank you so much for you guys for being here. Something for my younger self is, even now, I'm almost 40, I own my own skincare salon, like I said, being up here makes me nervous, but to keep trying new things, because I had a bunch of great opportunities, a bunch of job opportunities that I did before I owned my own business that I didn't love, but from doing that, I got to learn, like Congresswoman Clark, what many of these women have said, is just keep trying, and if you can find something that you find joy in, It's not work, it's fun. And thank you guys so much.