Talk of Weylu land shifts to future of Hilltop property

SAUGUS – A conversation about the purchase of Weylu got the Economic Development Committee talking about the future of Route 1 development, including what could be next for Hilltop Steak House.Economic Development Officer Robert Luongo said he?s already heard concerns from neighbors about what could become of the Weylu?s property, specifically those who are worried Saugus residential streets will be used as access during development. Combined with the abutting Revere property, new landowner Joseph DiNanno of Republic Properties has 30 acres to work with.Luongo said after meeting with DiNanno and Town Manager Scott Crabtree, he still didn?t know what DiNanno was planning, but his intention was to make the committee a key player in the process. “When someone proposes something, they should first take it before this committee, even before the Planning Board,” said Luongo. “They would appear before us and see if they can get our support as the first step.”Luongo said he had also recently met with Dennis January, general manager of Hilltop, whom he referred to as a “principle” of the property. “He did not say what his intentions were. It?s probably too early in the process for them,” said Luongo.According to Luongo, January said he had not been approached by Market Basket. “But they?re playing their role as developers,” said Luongo. “I?m sure they have ideas, they?re just not telling me.”The committee agreed they would like to encourage a mixed used of development, with both commercial and residential properties that may require some rezoning. Committee member Peter Rossetti suggested the committee push for more vertical development to conserve space and professional offices instead of retail stores.Luongo agreed. “The Route 1 commercial strips are tired,” he said. “They?re not what we call a sustainable development.”Luongo said the town could offer developers incentives for creating a “good development” for Saugus, like increasing the property?s value.Peter Manoogian said it was about inviting developers to the table for the process. “Whether it?s Hilltop or Weylu?s, let people know the town is willing to listen,” he said.