Not only Wakefield is riled, but anyone who values conservation of natural
habitats will learn of this travesty with dismay.  This area is the only
forested Core Habitat remaining in Wakefield.  Core Habitats by definition
contain plant and animal species of concern and are exemplary for
containing native diversity.  This precious resource is to be needlessly
destroyed.  There is more than ample acreage for school renovations using
the present site and already cleared land.

As one who voted "yes" to the proposed Northeast Metropolitan
Regional Vocational High School, I did so trusting that state and local
Conservation Commissions would protect this habitat.  Had I known
otherwise, my vote would have changed.  There are no doubt hundreds of
voters who would say the same.   Yes, to the school, a resounding No to
this plan!

How was this proposal allowed to pass unchallenged and unchanged?  Can
citizens no longer rely on those entrusted with protecting natural habitats
to do their job?  Or as my mother would say, "Do I have to do
everything around here?" The process of how this was approved begs for
investigation, a re-vote and any other pressure that can be brought to bear
to prevent this needless destruction.

David DiBarri says, "The train has left the station,"  but that is not
true.  Trains can be derailed.  The annihilation of this habitat has not
started, and should never be.

Barbara xxxxx
Winchester, MA
01890