Let's Support One Another

A Note from Katie Schuller, Manager of Neighbors for Better Planning

Our Beginning

On June 15, 2023, many of us gathered at Wellesley High School to hear Victor Sheen present his plans for 489 Worcester Road. During that meeting, it became clear that residents needed to work collaboratively and constructively to ensure our concerns were thoughtfully considered. From that shared commitment, Neighbors for Better Planning was formed.

A Significant Milestone

On January 9, 2024, the Select Board voted to reject the 489 Worcester Street housing proposal, determining that it was “too large for the location.” We believe the organized, methodical, and respectful engagement of residents — both within our immediate neighborhood and across other districts — contributed meaningfully to the nearly unanimous vote.

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Where Things Stand Today

Development at 489 Worcester Street has since taken a different direction. The Town has approved and permitted three single-family homes on the property.

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In addition, 4 Cliff Road — the historic former home of renowned Tiffany silversmith George Gebelein — will not be demolished. Instead, it is being renovated and restored in a manner that preserves the single-family character and historic integrity of the Cliff Road neighborhood.

How We Reached This Point

Our progress would not have been possible without the collective efforts and financial contributions of our supporters. We are deeply grateful to those who have given their time, expertise, and resources.

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Neighbors for Better Planning was established as an LLC, and our website was created entirely through volunteer effort. This foundation allowed us to organize effectively, collect contributions, and communicate consistently with residents across Wellesley. Lawn signs placed throughout multiple districts helped broaden awareness and demonstrate that thoughtful planning is a town-wide concern.

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Financial contributions have been used responsibly and strategically. We retained a highly respected zoning attorney with experience in state government and direct involvement in shaping 40R legislation and other zoning laws. His expertise has been instrumental in helping us understand the legal and procedural framework.

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A Freedom of Information Act request was filed to review communications between the Town, the State, and the developer, providing greater transparency into the process.

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As environmental concerns became more apparent — particularly regarding wetlands abutting 489 Worcester Street — we engaged a leading environmental law firm in Massachusetts to ensure these sensitive areas received appropriate protection.

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We also retained the former head of MEPA, whose extensive knowledge of state highways and access regulations related to Route 9 proved invaluable. The combined expertise of these professionals played a pivotal role in demonstrating that a 40-unit condominium development was not appropriate for this site.

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We also extend sincere thanks to those who participated in Citizen Speak and attended Board and Committee meetings. Your presence and thoughtful advocacy ensured that residents’ voices were heard.

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Achievements to Date

1.  The Town determined that a 40-unit condominium project at the foot of Cliff Road was too large for the site.

2. 489 Worcester Street has been removed from the Town website as a potential 40R project.

3.  The project cannot proceed under 40R following the Select Board vote. We now await the developer’s next proposal and must remain prepared.

4. We have built coalitions with other neighborhood groups addressing rezoning concerns in their districts, reinforcing that this is a town-wide issue.

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Looking Ahead

We encourage the development of a unified, town-wide rezoning plan that meaningfully incorporates resident input and carefully considers Wellesley’s green spaces, traffic realities, environmental protections, historic homes, and essential wetlands.

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While we are encouraged by the progress made thus far, additional challenges remain. Thoughtful planning requires sustained effort. Continued professional guidance will be essential as new proposals and rezoning discussions emerge.

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We respectfully ask each household to consider contributing $1,000 to support the next phase of this work. If you have already contributed, thank you. If you have not yet done so, we hope you will consider joining us. This is a long-term commitment — a marathon, not a sprint.

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Thank you for your continued engagement and support.

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— Katie Schuller

February 2026