Neighbors working together to preserve our neighborhoods and beyond.

MBTA Communities Act Steve Stearns MBTA Communities Act Steve Stearns

Boston Tea Party 2.0 Unfolding

While both the Boston Tea Party and resistance to the MBTA Communities Act involve acts of defiance against governmental authorities, the motivations and historical contexts of these events are quite different. The Boston Tea Party was a foundational moment in the struggle for American independence, while resistance to the MBTA Communities Act is part of ongoing debates about governance, public policy, and community rights in a modern context.

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MBTA Communities Act Myths & Facts

On Thursday, April 11, 2024, residents of Shrewsbury gathered for an open forum to explore the myths, facts, and misconceptions about the MBTA Communities Act, with a specific focus on how it affects Shrewsbury and the 176 other communities in Massachusetts. Millbury, facing parallel challenges, emphasizes the importance of making decisions rooted in informed understanding rather than relying on state leaders' propaganda. It's crucial to note that the deadline for compliance is December 31, 2024.

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Millbury Residents Intervene In MBTA Communities Act Lawsuit

Discover how the Millbury Neighborhoods for Responsible Growth, led by Steve Stearns, is taking action in a pivotal zoning dispute. Learn about their concerns regarding the MBTA Communities Act and its impact on Millbury's housing and resources. Millbury joins other communities in contesting §3A's application, safeguarding community well-being amidst legal proceedings that could shape its future.

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MBTA Communities Act Steve Stearns MBTA Communities Act Steve Stearns

Housing Mandates Uses California As Template

Discover Governor Maura Healey's vision for Massachusetts' housing future, echoing California's innovative model. She spotlights initiatives like the Affordable Homes Act and credits Governor Charlie Baker's groundwork, notably the MBTA Communities Act. The video "Housing Mandates In California" offers an insightful critique, exposing how this model fails, leading to statewide housing challenges. The looming state legislation aims at streamlining zoning for developers, shaping the landscape. Despite its length, the video is indispensable, offering a critical view of what's at stake. Without citizen involvement, the outlook is grim: rising costs, congested roads, and the erosion of homeownership dreams. Take action now to steer towards a brighter future.

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Unpacking Urban Affordability: Reimagining Land Markets For Inclusive Housing

Patrick Condon’s research, spanning North America, particularly highlights Vancouver’s experience. Despite significant density increases, housing affordability in the city has not improved. Instead, rising land values have made housing increasingly unattainable for average earners. Patrick Condon identifies the root of the problem as not housing prices themselves but the escalating value of urban land, a phenomenon observed not just in Vancouver but across the globe.

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Affordable Homes Act

Governor Maura Healey has presented the Affordable Homes Act to the legislature for review and potential implementation, as announced in her latest State of the Commonwealth address. Among its provisions, one aspect of this proposed legislation is the allowance of "Accessory Dwelling Units" (ADUs) in all residential zoning districts statewide, designated as an "as of right" provision, which is subject to amendments and the likely implementation of local zoning bylaws or ordinances which are subject to review by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) and the Attorney General’s Bylaw Review department

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