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Housing Crisis Or Developer Cash Grab? Unpacking The Truth About Affordability, Zoning, And Public Transit In Massachusetts
Most have yet to see concrete proof of a true housing shortage. While there is undeniably a housing affordability crisis, We question whether Massachusetts truly needs 222,000 additional housing units—most of them market-rate—by 2035. Simply increasing the supply does not guarantee affordability, especially if these units are priced beyond what the average resident can afford.
Lexington Approves Scaling-Back MBTA Communities Act
Town Meeting approved Article 2, but the real question is whether the state-controlled zoning districts will receive approval from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) and the Attorney General. Since any amendments to previously approved zoning districts require their approval, it will be interesting to see if they uphold the changes or reject the attempt to scale back areas previously designated for MBTA Communities Act compliance, shifting them away from by-right high-density multifamily zoning.
The Text Of The MBTA Communities Act Zoning Amendment
These changes raise serious concerns about public health, safety, and quality of life in our community. There is a reason why we no longer see traditional rooming houses—historically, these high-density living arrangements led to unsafe, overcrowded conditions, fire hazards, and health concerns. Over time, stricter zoning and housing regulations were put in place to protect residents from these dangers. By eliminating basic safeguards such as occupancy limits and bedroom size requirements, the MBTA Communities Act could reintroduce many of the same public health and safety risks that communities worked hard to eliminate in the past.
Millbury Board Of Selectmen Put Forth A Second MBTA Communities Act Zoning Amendment
The fate of Millbury’s MBTA Communities Act zoning amendments now rests in the hands of its residents. On March 11, 2025, the Board of Selectmen approved a zoning amendment covering Route 146 southbound, along with two additional areas on Grafton Road (Route 122) and Westborough Road, placing it on the warrant for the May 6, 2025, town meeting. Ultimately, it will be the registered voters in attendance who decide its outcome. While the board’s process allowed for resident engagement and input, the final decision now shifts to the community—making public participation more crucial than ever.
Municipal Challenges To The MBTA Communities Act As An “Unfunded Mandate”
Hill Law, a Massachusetts firm specializing in land use and municipal law, prepared the following memorandum for its clients. At least one client shared this document to help educate the public about their legal rights under Massachusetts General Laws. This information is crucial for municipal officials and concerned residents to understand their rights regarding the MBTA Communities Act (M.G.L. c. 40A § 3A) as determined to be an “unfunded mandate”. The Act could have significant impacts on communities and the tax burdens that residents may face.
Millbury’s Fight Against The MBTA Communities Act: Zoning, Development, And The Future Of Our Town
Learn about Millbury’s proposed zoning amendments for the MBTA Communities Act (M.G.L. c. 40A § 3A), aimed at minimizing its impact while ensuring responsible development. Stay informed and participate in upcoming town meetings to shape the future of your community.