Position on Use of Albemarle Field for Football Stadium

At the suggestion of a former alderman, the Mayor and the School Committee indicated interest last month in exploring the relocation of Dickinson Field, Newton North High School's track and gridiron, to Albemarle Playground, now officially known as the Halloran Sports and Recreation Complex. The theory behind this change is that it would permit greater flexibility in siting the new structure envisioned by the hybrid plan for North.

In its regular meeting on October 23, the Newton Conservators Board of Directors took a strong position in opposition to moving quickly to adopt this plan, advocating careful study and adherence to the well-documented process for changing the use of city recreation land. The text of the letter follows:

October 27, 2003

Anne Larner, Chair
Newton School Committee

Dear Ms. Larner and School Committee Members:

The Newton Conservators is a citizens group that advocates for Newton's open spaces. Founded in 1961 and with a membership of more than 400 households, we advocate for the proper use and protection of parks, playgrounds, conservation areas, ponds and streams in Newton.

The Newton Conservators is writing to you regarding Albemarle Park. We have recently read in the Newton Tab about plans to relocate the football field and grandstands from Newton North into this city park. As you contemplate this issue we ask that you keep the following in mind:

• We understand that the School Committee will adhere to the procedures regarding parks and recreation land as prescribed under Chapter 45 of the Massachusetts General Laws. In discussing any changes of use or alterations to parkland the School Committee intends to go through the proper statutory stewards of Newton's parks and playgrounds-the Newton Parks and Recreation Commission.
  
  
• There is an open space plan on file for the City of Newton. In the plan is information about the current uses and future plans for all open space in Newton, including Albemarle. In making decisions regarding the use of open space, this plan should be a guide. Any considerations regarding open space should, as outlined in the plan, take into account the total open space and recreational needs of the city.

Lastly, the Newton Conservators know that open space is a precious commodity in Newton. Once lost, our open spaces are irreplaceable. We hope that everyone will keep this in mind as we plan for the future of Newton.

Sincerely,
The Newton Conservators