Housing Headlines

LUDLOW --- The corporation charged with overseeing the cleanup and redevelopment of the 170-acre Ludlow Mill complex announced this week that efforts to clear the site of asbestos and PCBs have concluded, but they are wary that development efforts may stall if federal brownfield funds and historic tax credit funds are cut.

SUDBURY --- The Zoning Board of Appeals recently approved Ch. 40B comprehensive land permit for 56 units of senior rental housing, an OK that should keep the town's supply of affordable housing over 10 percent for the next few years. The permit was granted to B'nai B'rith Housing New England and it will be built next to the Coolidge at Sudbury, a 65-unit senior development that B'nai B'rith finished in 2014.

FALMOUTH --- After about an hour-long debate over issues like requiring affordability, residential impacts and who would be served by new units, Town Meeting OK'd by the necessary two-thirds majority a bylaw that will allow for modest accessory apartment within single-family homes as a matter of right in agricultural and residential zones. A special permit would be needed if the apartment is in a freestanding accessory building, such as a garage.

NEWTON ---- In the effort to overhaul its aging zoning and a nod to the fact that people don't have time to attend night meetings anymore, the City of Newton has posted 15 signs around the city asking questions that can be answered by texting to a phone number on the sign. The signs include messages like: “Have you seen any new buildings you like in Newton or elsewhere?.” “Waban is a small village that’s big on character – how can we preserve what’s special yet allow for moderate growth?.” “Is live-work housing or home businesses something you’d like to see in your neighborhood?”

PROVINCETOWN --- With rumors swirling that builders and real estate brokers would converge on the last night of Town Meeting to turn back an inclusionary zoning bylaw the town had adopted by two-third majority earlier in the week, housing proponents turned to social media to urge supporters to attend Town Meeting again to ensure there would be a two-thirds majority to turn back any appeal. Turnout was similar to the night the vote was passed and the repeal attempt never materialized.

IPSWICH --- While the town's planner has called Bruni's Marketplace an "acceptable" location for a proposed Ch. 40B 194-apartment development, the town is likely to suggest changes that would include lower rents, reduced building heights and more open space.