The Land Use Committee of Newton City convened on March 25, 2025, to discuss significant developments affecting the community, particularly regarding the Northland project and its implications for local infrastructure and residential areas.

The meeting began with public comments, where Diane Puente, representing Right Size Newton, expressed concerns about the proposed elimination of 280 parking spaces as part of the Northland development. Puente warned that this reduction could lead to increased congestion and safety issues in nearby residential neighborhoods, particularly around Chestnut Street and Petty Square. She emphasized the importance of maintaining current shuttle services to reduce car dependency, arguing that cutting these services would contradict efforts to encourage public transportation use.

Puente also raised questions about the project's design, specifically the decision to retain taller buildings while eliminating five others. She suggested that a reconsideration of the building heights could better serve community interests, reflecting residents' previous opposition to the project's density.

Following Puente's remarks, the committee opened the floor to additional public comments. Brandon Irvine, a resident of Newton Corner, voiced his support for the changes proposed in the Northland project, indicating a division of opinion among community members regarding the development.

The committee noted the importance of these public inputs and assured attendees that their concerns would be addressed in future discussions. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further evaluate the project's impact on local infrastructure and community needs, particularly regarding parking and transportation services.

As the committee moves forward, the feedback from residents will play a crucial role in shaping the final decisions on the Northland project and its integration into the Newton community.