BPD+PUD rezoning amendment

In August of 2008 a letter regarding the Proposed Zoning Amendment at the time was drafted, highlighting Camp Lion as a charitable organization with 74.34 acres, to be rezoned into an 'ALL USES' lot.   The video below talks about this special "Text Amendment" change.   What is interesting under the Special Permit criteria (p. 2, point 3.), that is required:  "The planned unit development would not result in a net negative environmental impact."

Lets assess the environmental impacts:

• “’Big box’ stores such as the proposed Lowe’s and Wal-Mart are large energy users and generate considerable traffic, both of which result in significant emissions of greenhouse gasses that contribute to global climate change.”  ~ The Secretary of State said in a letter to the developer on Feb. 19, 2010: www.env.state.ma.us/mepa/mepacerts/2010/sc/enf/14532eenf.pdf
• Wetlands impacts
• Loss of 20-30 acres of trees (estimate includes 15 acres sold to Lowe's from Camp Lion; 4 acres given to retailer from Salem Public parcel; additional acres given to Walmart to expand; additional acres of Camp Lion given to Salem (public) for tower; additional acres of Camp Lion land cleared for new 'camp pad'.
• Wildlife habitat impact
• Loss of human environment, in reduction of open-space
• Loss of human environment, in potential historic & archeological resources
• Increase in impervious surfaces
• Increase in flood area