Neighbors working together to preserve our neighborhoods and beyond.

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Planning Board 2024 Candidates

Drawing from factual observations made by numerous participants in meetings and public hearings over recent years, this blog post unveils pivotal insights into the workings of the Millbury Planning Board. While its content may be confronting for some, it will surely strike a chord with others. With many challenges ahead of us, it's time for us, as registered voters, to face reality if we truly desire genuine change. While some may find it uncomfortable, we must be prepared for honest and direct assessments of the board members. It is up to us to elect the change we desire for our community.

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The Pitfalls of Local Incumbents: When Representation Fails To Serve

In the realm of local governance, incumbent figures often wield significant influence. They are the experienced hands, familiar with the workings of the system. But what happens when these incumbents falter, failing to meet expectations and disregarding the voices of the residents they're meant to represent? The answer is straightforward: it's time for change.

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Balancing Development: Prioritizing Residents and Sustainability In Town Planning

Bypassing zoning bylaws can lead to shoddy design and construction, putting residents at risk. Environmental regulations are there for a reason – waiving them can lead to lasting damage to the local ecosystem, impacting air and water quality. Increased density without proper infrastructure upgrades can overwhelm schools, roads, and utilities, leading to longer commutes, crowded classrooms, and strained resources. Unrestricted development can also erase the very things that make a town unique – its historical buildings, charming neighborhoods, and established character. All of a sudden, the town residents might find themselves living in a generic sprawl instead of the community they cherished.

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Your Vote, Your Voice: A Call to Action for Informed Decision-Making

As we approach the upcoming election cycle, it's crucial to recognize the power of your vote and the impact it can have on the future of your community. Too often, voters simply fill in the dot next to a familiar name or succumb to the influence of hearsay. But this election, let's pledge to do better. Let's commit to informed decision-making that prioritizes the genuine advocacy and representation of residents.

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Rising Threat: Potential Rental Market Monopoly In Millbury

In Millbury, there's a looming possibility of monopolies taking hold in the apartment rental sector, quietly shaping our community's housing landscape. These monopolies, potentially controlled by a few individuals using various corporations or a select few entities, could dictate rental prices, tenant options, and living standards. This dominance may lead to inflated rents, subpar living conditions, and limited housing choices, particularly affecting low- and middle-income families. Furthermore, the emergence of monopolies could stifle innovation, drive community displacement, and hinder fair competition.

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Rice Pond Village Chapter 40B Initial Public Hearing

On November 29, 2023, starting at 7:00 PM, the Millbury Board of Appeals will host the inaugural public hearing for the Chapter 40B Rice Pond Village project at the Millbury Memorial Junior/Senior High School located at 12 Martin Street in Millbury, Massachusetts. This proposed development is planned for 17 Rice Road in Millbury, Massachusetts, featuring three buildings each standing 4 stories or more. The project includes a total of 192 apartments, with 25% of them designated as affordable housing in perpetuity and 75% being market-rate units.

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