Your editorial for April 3, 2009 was all about the unintended consequences and lack of proportionality of affordable housing at Devens. But it missed the mark completely. The zoning change at Vicksburg Square is not about proportionality, it is about preservation. Saving the buildings, which are acknowledged as the heart of Devens, is more important than squabbling about who gets the most affordable home credits.
This is a chance for the three towns to demonstrate ability to work together and make a positive zoning change for the good of Devens and the region. If these structures were located in downtown Harvard or Ayer they would have been preserved a long time ago. The entire point of the zoning change is to entice a developer to spend money to preserve the character and history of Devens. The towns should eliminate some of their petty requirements as a sign for the greater good served by preservation.
Rick Bernklow
Walnut Street, Devens
