Housing Headlines

SOMERVILLE --- The board of aldermen will consider amendments to the Union Square zoning plan to increase the required percentage of affordable housing, while reducing the amount set aside for artists' residences.

BOSTON --- Tufts University professor Rachel G. Bratt argues that in the absence of public resources for affordable housing, the private sector has taken the lead in new production through 40B and this is something Massachusetts can build onnot only to solve its housing production issues but also to serve as a national model.

Opinion: A non-profit leader urges the new administration to consider streamlining the screening processes to make it simpler, faster, and more forgiving for families who need low-income housing.

MARION --- A 7,000 square foot mixed-use building designed to resemble a traditional New England marketplace is set to open next month, but still awaits approval for the 'friendly 40B' planned for the second floor.

NEEDHAM --- Town leaders have put together a ten year 'project development plan', plotting how the town will meet its 10 percent affordable housing goal. Needham currently has one 40B effort underway and has several ideas which include a buy-down program and another downtown 40B.

BELMONT --- Opponents of the approved 40B Belmont Uplands plan have taken a legal suit to the state, claiming that the low number of three-bedroom units in the effort is discrimination against families with children. This is the first suit of its kind in Massachusetts, though precedents have been set in other states.