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October 29, 2007

Compromise on affordable housing

The Lowell Sun
Article Last Updated: 10/27/2007 03:14:07 PM EDT

There's no question that lawmakers need to debate the merits of the state's Chapter 40B law, but there should not be an all-out assault on the regulation, nor should the law be entirely abolished.

Many Massachusetts residents need affordable housing to continue living here, particularly younger people, senior citizens, and residents employed in low-paying fields. Without a requirement that communities provide some kind of affordable housing, many residents -- including people who were born and raised here, and others who lived here for decades -- would be priced out of the market and forced to relocate.

Not only is that unfair, but it would have a detrimental impact on the state's economy. If those with high-paying jobs are the only people who can afford to reside in Massachusetts, who will fulfill the employment needs of our restaurants, hotels, grocery stores and social-service industries? Positions in these businesses typically pay considerably less than high-tech jobs, but are necessary for the Bay State's economic survival and the quality of life of residents.
Currently, activists are diligently working to get Chapter 40B repealed. We understand their reasoning and share many of their concerns, but we feel abolishing the law would be going too far.

A better solution would be to strive to improve Chapter 40B, to make it work for everyone -- both affluent and struggling residents, lawmakers and developers.

Should the regulations be tightened up? Absolutely. No community should have a ridiculously high-density development shoved down its throat. But communities also shouldn't be allowed to perpetuate "snob zoning" where there's no room for anything less than half-million dollar homes.

Otherwise, where will our children live when they've finished high school or college? How can our parents remain in the town in which they raised their families when they live on a fixed income? If some people want to spend their entire lives in their hometown, shouldn't they have that option?

We think so. And we hope legislators and 40B activists will discuss this issue in a cooperative manner to find a solution that works for everyone.

Posted by Admin at October 29, 2007 11:26 AM