Planning & Design Expertise for Lexington
My architecture and urban planning education at Tufts University and work as a designer have given me the skillset for the technical work of the Planning Board.
I am the only candidate with a technical background in architecture and planning, with the ability to navigate the complexities of zoning, and a plan for Lexington’s future.
I am committed to public service and the Town as the chair of the Transportation Advisory Committee, Town Meeting Member, and advocate on statewide issues.
Kunal's Goals
➔ Support economic development to reduce the residential tax burden
➔ Improve housing affordability and allow smaller units
➔ Ensure the best design principles are used on new developments
➔ Reduce the effects of climate change using zoning regulation
Meet Kunal
Kunal’s background has prepared him to do the technical work of the Planning Board.
As a student of architecture and planning, Kunal:
- Applies current planning solutions and practices.
- Visualizes technical architectural drawings in actual neighborhoods.
- Analyzes complex mapping, plans, and regulations.
- Integrates financials, stormwater management, open space, and transportation needs.
In his actual design experience, Kunal has:
- Led a team of nine to design a live-work community for the City of Oakland, California.
- Worked with a team of five on design management and logistics for a 234 bed veteran home project in Holyoke, Massachusetts.
- Consulted on design proposals for United Nations peacebuilding programs.
On the Transportation Advisory Committee, Kunal advanced:
- $20 Limitless Lexpress pass, improving ridership and revenue.
- Helped build 99% Town Meeting support for increased MBTA bus service. Resulting in substantially expanded MBTA service.
- Developer funded benefits from MBTA multi-family projects such as bus shelters, funds to Alewife shuttles, and more.
As a Town Meeting Member, Kunal supported:
- Town-led 100% affordable housing development on Lowell Street.
- Increased affordability requirements in Special Residential Developments.
Testimonials
Kunal’s key priorities of forward looking town-wide planning, increasing the commercial tax base, and environmental conservation will be an important addition to the Planning Board.
Kunal’s educational and professional background in planning and design on multiple scales will assist the Planning Board to focus on town-wide planning and development opportunities in addition to improving the Board’s site-specific zoning and project development review capabilities that consume much of the Board’s time and energy.
Kunal brings a fresh and innovative perspective to the important roles and responsibilities of the Lexington Planning Board.
Fred Merrill, Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners
Principal Planner, Permanent Building Committee member, former Planning Board chair/member & Town Meeting Member
Kunal Botla has an extraordinary maturity of character and a sharp intellect that’s always been focused on realistic and creative solutions to difficult problems, particularly in the areas of affordable housing and public transportation.
He’s an excellent listener, tolerant of all points of view, and so energetic that he can readily manage all of the Planning Board’s responsibilities. He accumulates new experiences in his chosen field when and wherever possible, and he’s a very quick study. Kunal will bring a fresh perspective to the Planning Board, one much needed in this time of transition for our town. I support him wholeheartedly and hope that other voters will do the same!
Rita Goldberg
Town Meeting Member (Precinct 2) & member of Cary Lecture Committee
Electing Kunal Botla would bring a fresh, educated perspective and the forward-thinking vision necessary on our Planning Board. As a voice for the next generation, Kunal is dedicated to ensuring Lexington's future is sustainable, vibrant, and inclusive for all residents.
Bobak Moshiri
Lexington resident and member of Greenways Corridor Committee
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