Serra letterFebruary 9, 2015
Carolyn Misch
City of Northampton
210 Main Street
Northampton, MA 01060
Dear Carolyn Misch,
As a concerned resident of 68 Lake Street in Florence, I am writing regarding your notice of the Public Hearing on 2/12/15 at 5:30 pm for a Special Permit Home Business for beer brewing
and fermentation with non-resident employee, 86 Lake St, Florence Map ID 17A-245. Due to my work schedule, I may not be able to attend.
I am concerned about the impact such a business would have on my neighborhood, particularly with placing further burden upon our fragile infrastructure (aging water/sewer pipes). I've
attached a document of my claim for reimbursement for a recent sewer backup in my home. I ended up having to pay out of my own pocket to clear heavy tree roots that are crushing old
clay pipes on Lake Street - and this is the 2nd problem I've had in recent years.
Even if infrastructure were off the table, I am still not in favor of this business as I have numerous other concerns (traffic, safety, noise, chemicals), and there are just too many
unknowns about the effects of a beer brewery inserted smack in the middle of a relatively quiet, residential neighborhood. This change could negatively impact real estate values and
set a precedent for others seeking business zoning. Once you've allowed a beer brewery of all things, how can you possibly say no to a hairdresser, dog groomer, or accountant?
As a progressive individual who supports a creative economy, I truly hope my industrious neighbors have a business plan that includes a Plan B, appropriating funding to start their business
in a location zoned for business from the onset. Our City already offers locations that would allow one to both live and work. If I understand correctly, the proposed business owners
plan to expand this business and move to a proper business location once they are established. I believe it would be in everyone's best interest for them to pursue such a location at
this time.
Thank you for considering my views.
Sincerely,
Michelle Serra
68 Lake Street
Florence, MA 01062