Is development the right answer for the HRA land? One resident wonders

Is development the right answer for the HRA land? One resident wonders…

Is it still necessary to develop the HRA land 63 years later? For six decades, the HRA land has remained undeveloped (area located between Phipps and Water streets, where our community enjoys annual events such as carnivals and bonfires and visitors rely on summer parking).

When that land was cleared decades ago, some HRA businesses moved to other locations. While the town awaited HRA development, the NBOD business district was formed and hundreds of apartments and condos were built. Both of these have contributed to our local economy for years.

At this year’s town meeting, Hull voters approved new residential zoning under the MBTA Communities Act, enabling a significant increase in multi-family housing units in the south end of town, in an area away from beach congestion. With affordable housing requirements now in place, these developments could see affordable units. For the HRA land, adding affordable housing may be challenging due to rising construction costs to mitigate increased flood risk.

Please consider the impact of overdevelopment here if we fill the HRA land with buildings, add MBTA housing and build the 132 apartments at the arcade site. We are gradually losing recreational areas. These developments strain vital resources like water, electricity, sewer, and public safety. Before potentially selling the HRA land to private developers with no investment in Hull’s future, can we pause to explore a plan that meets coastal resiliency standards and enhances the community while still supporting the town’s economic vitality? A win-win for everyone!

With regard to economic vitality, Hull’s financial statements show a $2 million surplus in 2023, with approximately $47 million in revenue and $45 million in spending (published in our 2023 annual report, page 162). For the past four years, Hull has consistently reported revenue surpluses. Given this financial situation and the already approved housing developments, is it still necessary to maximize profit from the HRA land at the expense of losing our last remaining land, a cherished community gathering space?

The HRA has sought public feedback. An independent research firm conducted a survey. Both sources indicate that open space is the community’s top priority for land use. Many respondents firmly believe that HRA Lot B and Hull Shore Commons should remain completely open for community gatherings and larger events, as this location is distanced from residential areas that could be impacted by noise and is convenient for visitors coming from the beach strip.

Substantial parking revenue is generated from the HRA land that could be used to enhance and maintain a large public space for recreation, community events, and parking. Adding a professional event coordinator could turn this into a popular South Shore tourist destination, aligning with Hull’s 2021 Local Rapid Recovery Plan to attract day-trippers. Let’s create a lasting and special place for both visitors and residents while boosting our economy!

In summary, our town has undergone major changes in the past six decades. Both residents and HRA members have proposed ideas for land use in the below links:

• Citizens’ submissions: https://www.hra02045. com/submissions-1.(Check out SOS Hull’s presentation.)

•HRA board submissions: https://www. hra02045.com/draft-urban-renewal-plan-home

Please share your feedback with the HRA and attend its in-person meetings on August 12 and 26, where members will begin making final decisions. Meeting link and contact for feedback here: hra02045.com.

Thank you, Susan Vermilya