Developer urges collaboration, denies self-dealing amid Geneva Ponds debate

Nate Hutchinson, speaking for the developer, asked council and residents to avoid insinuations of self-dealing and highlighted the developer's long track record in Vineyard. Hutchinson said the land-exchange and cleanup work has been under discussion for about three years with prior councils and that the developer intends to collaborate on lake cleanup and community benefits rather than pursue unilateral development.

"We've been working on this land exchange for 3 years... Everyone was supportive," Hutchinson said, adding that the developer has previously funded community-oriented projects and wants to find common ground. Hutchinson encouraged officials and residents to direct concerns to public processes and to participate at the Aug. 12 information session. The council did not adopt a position during the meeting and emphasized the need for further review and coordination with state and RDA advisers.